Great Lakes Energy Cooperative
November/December 2026
MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES
D N A L R E D N O W A WINTER ’s r e n n o r B t a r a e Y 36 1 Days a GLE in Your Community
Powering the Next Generation
Board Approves Rate Changes
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
/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.
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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.
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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!
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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
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What’s Behind Your Electric Bill By Shaun Lamp, Great Lakes Energy President/CEO
BOARD OF DIRECTORS Howard Bowersox, Chair, District 8 219-670-0977 hbowersox@glenergy.com Janet Andersen, Vice Chair, District 6 231-690-4622 jandersen@glenergy.com Paul Byl, Secretary, District 7 231-742-2643 pbyl@glenergy.com Dale Farrier, Treasurer, District 5 231-564-0853 dfarrier@glenergy.com Mark Carson, Director, District 2 231-675-0561 mcarson@glenergy.com David Coveyou, Director, District 1 231-347-4056 dcoveyou@glenergy.com Richard Evans, Director, District 3 231-883-3146 revans@glenergy.com Ed Hunt, Director, District 4 989-370-1092 ehunt@glenergy.com John LaForge, Director, District 9 269-623-2284 jlaforge@glenergy.com PRESIDENT/CEO: Shaun Lamp 888-485-2537 BOYNE CITY HEADQUARTERS 1323 Boyne Ave. Boyne City, MI 49712 Call center hours: 7 a.m.–5:30 p.m. M–F Phone: 888-485-2537 Email: glenergy@glenergy.com TO REPORT AN OUTAGE: Call 888-485-2537 or login to your account at gtlakes.com or the GLE mobile app.
Change of Address: 888-485-2537, ext. 8924 Great Lakes Energy is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
There’s more behind your electric bill than the amount you see at the bottom of the page. Different parts of your bill reflect different costs of providing service, and those costs can change for different reasons. I would like to take a moment to help explain two changes members will soon see on their bills: an adjustment to the power supply cost recovery factor, or PSCR, and a recently approved monthly rate increase. Although these changes are occurring around the same time, they are separate and are driven by different costs. The PSCR reflects the cost of the electricity we purchase on behalf of our members. Those costs can change over time, so we regularly review the PSCR and adjust it as conditions dictate. Based on current power supply costs and projections, qualifying members will soon see a reduction in the PSCR portion of their bill. It’s important to remember that the PSCR can move in either direction in the future as power supply costs change. The monthly charge increase detailed on page 5 is separate from the PSCR. It roughly translates to a 1% increase in the average GLE member’s bill. It covers the costs associated with operating the local electrical distribution system and the infrastructure that brings electricity to your home, farm, or business. Like nearly everything else, the costs of materials, equipment, labor, and technology continue to rise. This adjustment helps us keep up with those costs while continuing to maintain and improve the system our members depend on every day. For residential and seasonal members, the increase will add $1.58 per month to the monthly charge. You’ll also find an infographic on page 12 that provides a closer look at how electricity reaches our members. Transmission lines move electricity across the regional grid. GLE’s distribution system then delivers that electricity locally to homes, farms, and businesses throughout our service area That distinction also helps explain how these costs are reflected on your bill. Changes in our cost of purchased power, including transmission, affect the PSCR, while our rates help support GLE’s local distribution system and the people, equipment, and technology necessary to provide the reliable service our members expect. Reliable electricity doesn’t happen by accident. It requires ongoing maintenance, thoughtful investment, and long-term planning. Every decision we make is focused on keeping your service reliable both today and well into the future. That’s a responsibility we take seriously every day.
Thank you for your membership and for the opportunity to serve you.
gtlakes.com
/greatlakesenergy
/jointruestream
GLE Board Approves Rate Changes As we continue to navigate an ever-changing industry and rising infrastructure and operational costs, Great Lakes Energy’s board of directors recently approved rate changes that would result in a net increase across all rate classes.
infrastructure upgrades, equipment, vehicle maintenance, and fuel are just a few examples of these costs. Two other notable examples of these costs are debt payments and interest costs on those debts.
The board approved the proposed rate changes at an open member meeting that took place at our Boyne City headquarters on Sept. 30.
The newly approved rate changes, which will take effect on bills rendered in December, are designed to fairly distribute the responsibility for covering these costs among our membership while generating sufficient revenue to ensure the cooperative’s long-term financial stability and its ability to provide members with the service they need to power their homes and businesses.
Among the approved rate changes is a $1.58 increase in the fixed monthly charge for residential and seasonal members. With state tax included, this change equates to a $1.64 monthly bill increase for all seasonal and residential rate accounts, regardless of monthly energy use. There were no changes made to the per-kilowatt-hour energy-use charges for these two rate classes. The monthly charge helps pay for expenses the cooperative incurs that are not related to energy use. Outage restoration,
The graphic below shows monthly bill breakdowns for the current and newly approved rates. In the interest of clarity, the upcoming changes to the power supply cost recovery (PSCR) charge discussed on the previous page are not reflected in the chart below.
Approved Adjustments For Residential and Seasonal Members Current - Sept. 2026 kWh Monthly Charge*
Approved
300
800
2,000
$50.05
$50.05
$50.05
$50.05
300
800
2,000
Change
$51.63
$51.63
$51.63
$51.63
$1.58/mo.
Energy Usage
$0.14742
$44.23
$117.94
$294.84
$0.14742
$44.23
$117.94
$294.84
PSCR on Energy Use**
$0.00188
$0.56
$1.50
$3.75
$0.00188
$0.56
$1.50
$3.75
Energy Optimization
$0.00316
$0.00316
$0.95
$2.53
$6.32
$0.95
$2.53
$6.32
MI Low Income State Tax
$1.50
$1.50
$1.50
$1.50
$1.50
$1.50
Tax***
$3.83
$6.88
$14.20
$3.89
$6.94
$14.26
$101.12
$180.40
$370.66
$102.76
$182.04
$372.30
$1.64
$1.64
$1.64
* New rate to take effect on bills rendered December 2026 ** Does not reflect upcoming changes to this rate discussed on page 4 *** Charges required/approved by the State of Michigan
Difference
$0.06/mo.
Notice to Members of Great Lakes Energy Cooperative Rate and Tariff Changes Effective on or After Dec. 1, 2026 The Great Lakes Energy Board of Directors adopted the following changes to the cooperative’s rates and tariffs at a special open member meeting on Sept. 30, 2026, in accordance with Michigan Public Act 167 of 2008. 1. An increase of $1.58 to the monthly charge for residential/seasonal members. Rate changes for all other rate classifications were also approved. At its regular monthly meeting on Sept. 30, 2026, the Great Lakes Energy Board of Directors adopted the following changes to the cooperative’s tariffs, in accordance with Michigan Public Act 167 of 2008. 1. Changes in the terms of the cooperative’s non-standard metering provision tariff. For specific details on any of Great Lakes Energy’s rates or tariffs, please call 888-485-2537 or visit gtlakes.com/account-information/.
MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES
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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
1
$23,940
5
$58,020
2
32,460
6
66,540
3
40,980
7
75,060
4
49,500
8
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
5
$42,548
2
23,804
6
48,796
3
30,052
7
55,044
4
36,300
8
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.
Smarter Comfort with a Smart Thermostat Holiday schedules can be anything but predictable. Between overnight guests, busy days, and time away from home, maintaining a comfortable temperature can require more adjustment than usual. A smart thermostat can help simplify the process while managing your home’s heating and cooling use. Depending on the model, a smart thermostat can follow a schedule, make automatic adjustments, and allow you to manage settings from your phone. These features can help prevent your heating system from operating at your usual comfort setting when no one is home, while ensuring you always remain in control of your home’s comfort.
heating and cooling use. Now may also be one of the best times to make the upgrade. Many retailers feature smart thermostats in Black Friday and Cyber Monday promotions, creating an opportunity to combine seasonal sale prices with a rebate from Great Lakes Energy Cooperative. Before purchasing a smart thermostat, confirm that the model is compatible with your home’s heating and cooling system and qualifies for your cooperative’s rebate.
Traveling for the holidays? Use an energy-saving setting while you are away. Before returning home, adjust the temperature right from your smart device, so the house is comfortable when you arrive. According to ENERGY STAR, a certified smart thermostat can save the average household approximately 8% on
‘Tis the season to save. Visit gtlakes.com/energy-wise/ to learn more about smart thermostat incentives and available rebates for qualifying energy-efficient heating and cooling equipment and appliances and stay cozy all winter long.
KEEP YOUR HOME COZY THIS HOLIDAY SEASON With Smart Comfort and Energy Savings! Benefits of a Smart Thermostat: • • •
Auto adjusts to save energy Easy control from your phone Energy savings all winter long
Holiday deals are already great; pair them with a $50 rebate from Great Lakes Energy Cooperative on the purchase of a smart thermostat and it really is the season for savings.
‘Tis the Season
Scan the QR code to view eligible rebates or visit gtlakes.com/energy-wise/
For Energy Savings
GLE Photo Contest
TREASURED TRADITIONS 1. MOST VOTES Annual Freezer Corn Work Bee, Lynne Jutila, Stanwood 1. MOST VOTES Traditions worth growing, memories worth keeping. Tyanna Oeder, Bellaire 3. Happy birthday, USA!, Judy Woods, Harbor Springs 4. Danes on the Clam, Lynn Parry, Marion
1. MOST VOTES
5. Morel hunting in Charlevoix, Shelia Davis, Charlevoix
1. MOST VOTES
6. Peaceful acres, Anita Alexander, Ludington
Enter to win a $200 energy bill credit!
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Submit Your “Made By Hand” Photos by Nov. 25 for the February issue! Each month, members can submit photos on our website for our photo contest. The photo with the most votes is published here, along with other selections. How To Enter: Enter the contest at gtlakes.com/photocontest/. Make sure to vote and encourage others to vote for you, too. The photo receiving the most votes will be printed in an issue of Michigan Country Lines along with other favorites. All photos printed in the magazine in 2027 will be entered into a drawing to win a $200 bill credit in December 2027.
MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES
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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
FUEL MIX REPORT
The fuel mix characteristics of Great Lakes Energy Cooperative as required by Public Act 141 of 2000 for the 12-month period ending 6/30/2026.
COMPARISON OF FUEL SOURCES USED Fuel source
Your co-op’s Regional average fuel mix fuel mix
Coal
18.020%
25.848%
Oil
0.331%
0.488%
Gas
24.648%
35.954%
Hydroelectric
0.569%
0.659%
Nuclear
32.964%
24.240%
Renewable Fuels
23.468%
12.811%
Biofuel
0.345%
0.517%
Biomass
0.151%
0.248%
Solar
2.631%
3.585%
Solid Waste Incineration
2.132%
0.128%
Wind
17.938%
7.907%
Wood
0.271%
0.426%
NOTE: Biomass excludes wood; solid waste incineration includes landfill gas; and wind includes a long-term renewable purchase power contract in Wolverine’s mix.
CRITICAL CONNECTIONS: HOW ELECTRICITY GETS TO YOU
Transmission moves electricity long distances. Distribution delivers it to your home. Great Lakes Energy maintains the local distribution system that serves our members, noted below in steps 6 and 7.
Step 1 GENERATION
Power plants generate electricity using a variety of energy sources, like solar, natural gas, nuclear, and wind energy.
Step 2 STEP-UP TRANSFORMER
A step-up transformer increases the voltage to push the electricity over long distances.
Step 3 TRANSMISSION LINES
High-voltage electricity travels over long distances through these lines.
Step 4 TRANSMISSION SUBSTATION
YOUR CO-OP’S FUEL MIX
Voltage is lowered at a transmission substation so electricity can travel across the local distribution substation.
Step 5 DISTRIBUTION SUBSTATION
These substations lower the voltage again so the electricity is ready to travel on distribution lines. REGIONAL AVERAGE FUEL MIX
Step 6 DISTRIBUTION LINES
Lower-voltage electricity travels through distribution lines, like the ones you typically see on the side of the road. EMISSIONS AND WASTE COMPARISON lbs/MWh Type of emission/waste
Your co-op
Regional average*
Sulfur Dioxide
0.35
0.56
Carbon Dioxide
581.4
940.9
Oxides of Nitrogen
0.34
0.58
High-Level Nuclear Waste
0.0100
0.0060
* Regional average information was obtained from the MPSC website and is for the 12-month period ending 12/31/25. Great Lakes Energy purchases 100% of its electricity from Wolverine Power Supply Cooperative, Inc., which provided this fuel mix and environmental data.
12 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
Step 7 FINAL STOP
A transformer located on the ground or a utility pole reduces the voltage a final time, then electricity is sent to your meter base to power your home.
GLE Making A Difference In Your Community Great Lakes Energy’s commitment to the communities we serve goes beyond delivering safe, reliable power and internet service. Throughout September, employees shared their expertise, volunteered their time, and helped strengthen the communities they serve. From teaching young people about electrical safety through hands-on demonstrations to helping keep local roadways clean, these are just a few examples of how GLE employees and their families make a positive impact across our service area. These efforts reflect the cooperative’s dedication to education, service, and building stronger communities for future generations.
EDUCATION DAYS, SCOTTVILLE GLE lineworkers Josh Smith and Josh Quinn used GLE’s hotline demonstration trailer to teach more than 400 fifth-grade students about electrical safety during Education Days hosted by the Old Engine Club in Scottville. Students from five area school districts learned how electricity is delivered and how to stay safe around electrical equipment.
PROJECT RED, LEROY GLE representatives Thomas Mann, Mike Streasick, and Mike Holmberg presented GLE’s popular Powertown demonstration during Project RED (Rural Education Day) in Leroy. Using a miniature town with energized power lines, they gave students a memorable, up-close look at the dangers of electricity and downed power lines.
ADOPT-A-ROAD CLEANUP, PETOSKEY Communications and marketing team members Whitney Gilland and Julie Bailey, joined by their families, helped clean GLE’s adopted section of River Road south of Petoskey as part of the Emmet County Road Commission’s Adopt-A-Road program. The cooperative has participated in the community service effort for several years.
To learn more about our Powertown and hotline safety demonstrations and how to request one for a school or community group in your area, visit: gtlakes.com/youth-programs/#safetydemo 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
A
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
Powering The Next Generation
Great Lakes Energy, along with Boyne City Public Schools and the Charlevoix-Emmet Intermediate School District, is excited to introduce Joe Candela as the new teacher for a career-tech class that is opening doors to careers in the electric industry for students across northern Michigan. Based at Boyne City High School, less than a mile away from GLE’s headquarters, the Energy Fundamentals: Lineworker Emphasis class is a pre-apprenticeship program open to juniors and seniors from any district within the Char-Em ISD. The course meets for two hours each day for a full school year. Instructional time is split between classroom instruction and practical, hands-on learning at an outdoor training facility located on GLE property. Joe takes over teaching the lineworker class from Murlin Green, who retired earlier this year after a 21-year career at GLE, the last three of which he spent serving as the energy fundamentals program instructor.
16 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
Joe brings expertise from a diverse professional background, including more than a decade of utility industry experience in roles such as transmission lineman and foreman lineman, as well as safety leadership experience. He has earned numerous industry certifications, demonstrating his commitment to safety and professional excellence. Joe said the teaching position at GLE appealed to him because it offers him the chance to share his expertise with high school students as they explore the many career opportunities available in the skilled trades, especially in the energy industry. In early October, about a month into the school year, Joe said he’s pleased with how engaged the students have been and how quickly they’ve been picking up the concepts and skills. “Most of the students have already learned four lineworker knots, and they are climbing poles,” Joe said. “I couldn’t have asked for a better group of students, especially as a new teacher to the program.”
Next school year, Joe and his students will enjoy a brand-new classroom space currently under construction at the high school, specifically built for the school’s lineworker and building trades classes. Many former lineworker class students have pursued careers in linework or related fields since the program was established in 2018, including current GLE lineworker TJ Wodek. “We’re proud to be part of this unique partnership because it gives students the opportunity to explore a rewarding skilled-trades career while gaining real-world experience right here in our community. Investing in these students is an investment in the next generation of lineworkers and in the people who will help power and strengthen the communities we serve for years to come,” GLE President and CEO Shaun Lamp said.
Find more online To learn more about the energy fundamentals class and other CTE classes available through the Char-Em ISD, visit: charemisdcareertech.org
How will you
MAKE YOUR MARK? “ Youth Tour is the best trip to D.C. You will meet a lot of new people and have a really good time.” – Andrew Mason
“ I loved visiting the monuments and memorials and being reminded of historical moments. They were so beautiful to see!” – Moxie Sharpe
“ Youth Tour is a once-ina-lifetime opportunity! You will have the best time making friends and exploring our nation’s capital!” – Marin Sharpe
“ I am extremely grateful for NRECA, MECA, and Great Lakes Energy for investing in Youth Tour! It was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience and would not have been possible without their support.” – Adam Wahl
*
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 Great Lakes Energy Cooperative.
•
Connect with students from across the country and form friendships that last a lifetime, all sponsored by Great Lakes Energy 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
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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