Midwest Energy & Communications
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
Save the Date for Our Annual Meeting
Meet District 3 Director Ron Armstrong
Pizzeria Feeds People in Need
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.
6
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.
10
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!
14
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
3
Introducing a New Smart Thermostat Program By Terry Rubenthaler, President/CEO
CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS AND CASSOPOLIS SOLUTIONS CENTER 60590 Decatur Road, Cassopolis, MI 49031 M–F 8 a.m.–5 p.m. TECUMSEH SOLUTIONS CENTER 5050 South Occidental Hwy., Tecumseh, MI 49286 M–F 8 a.m.–5 p.m. CONTACT US Midwest Energy & Communications 800-492-5989 teammidwest.com Email: info@teammidwest.com BOARD OF DIRECTORS Jim Wiseley, Chairperson, Bloomingdale 269-760-4619 Jim.Wiseley@teammidwest.com Dan Bodette, Vice Chairperson, Wauseon 419-344-4015 Dan.Bodette@teammidwest.com Ron Armstrong, Secretary, Lawton 269-299-0443 Ron.Armstrong@teammidwest.com John Green, Treasurer, Dowagiac 269-470-2816 John.Green@teammidwest.com Fred Turk, Decatur 269-423-7762 Fred.Turk@teammidwest.com Clarence “Topper” Barth, Three Rivers 269-279-9233 Clarence.Barth@teammidwest.com Jeff Diehl, Union 574-274-6693 Jeffery.Diehl@teammidwest.com Gerry Bundle, Cassopolis 269-414-0164 Gerry.Bundle@teammidwest.com Erika Escue-Cadieux, Onsted 419-346-1088 Erika.Escue-Cadieux@teammidwest.com PRESIDENT/CEO: Terry Rubenthaler DIRECTOR, CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS & MARKETING: Amy Pales COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST: Grant Zamora Midwest Energy & Communications is an equal opportunity provider and employer. Please note: electric customers of MEC must adhere to our bylaws, which can be found at teammidwest.com/bylaws. teammidwest.com /teammidwest
4
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
It takes me 21 minutes to drive the 16 miles from my house to the MEC office. I can’t help but time myself; maybe its my engineering brain. One of my favorite things about living in rural Michigan is the fact that my work commute is straightforward. Aside from looking out for deer or catching the occasional train, I don’t have to worry about delays or obstacles. I can relax, listen to the radio and drink a cup of coffee. I cannot imagine sitting in traffic for an hour or more on the way to and from work every day. Frankly, I will never understand why anyone does that. I have no tolerance for traffic, especially rush hour. I imagine most of us rural folks feel the same. Did you know that the electric grid has its own kind of rush hour, and it’s one we all participate in? I am referring to peak demand that typically occurs in the late afternoon and evening, when people and industries use a lot of electricity at the same time. Extreme temperatures make these rush hours even more impactful, driving up costs and straining the grid. As a result, we have developed several voluntary load management programs that reward participating customers with bill credits or slightly lower rates while helping us reduce our load on the grid when demand is very high. One of my first projects, when I started at MEC in 1995, was to develop the irrigation control program. I’m excited to announce that in January, we will launch another load management option available to customers in Michigan and Indiana. The PeakTime Perks
program will give residential customers with Nest or Sensi thermostats an easy way to participate in a load management program without needing to add special equipment or a generator to your home. During a PeakTime event, MEC will automatically adjust participating customers’ thermostats by a few degrees for a few hours. This adjustment will help reduce demand on the grid while keeping your home comfortable. You don’t have to do anything; the thermostat handles everything. If you don’t want to participate during a particular PeakTime event, simply adjust your thermostat back to where you’d like it. PeakTime events do not happen every day but are dependent on grid conditions. As for the bill rewards, you will receive a $50 bill credit for enrolling in PeakTime Perks, plus an annual $50 bill credit if you participate in 60% of PeakTime events for the entire event duration. We’ll share all the details and the enrollment form on teammidwest.com/ peaktime-perks in January. Don’t have a Sensi or Nest? Michigan customers can visit teammidwest.com/ energy-savings to purchase a qualifying thermostat and get a $50 rebate. Once installed, you can enroll in PeakTime Perks. You all know how passionate I am about everyone helping to reduce congestion on the grid and avoid a more serious condition such as rolling black outs; so, I hope you’ll consider participating in one of our load management programs. After all, this electric usage rush hour might not be as noticeable as one that involves traffic causing my commute to be extended even by one minute; however, the impact could be far greater.
OUR MISSION: Delivering first-in-class innovations and solutions where others won’t OUR VISION: Creating vibrant, relevant, sustainable rural communities®
UPCOMING DIRECTOR ELECTIONS One of the seven guiding principles of cooperatives is democratic member control. We are governed by a ninemember board of directors, and each is elected to serve a three-year term. Directors are elected by and represent those who live in their district, and they make critical decisions on behalf of all co-op members. Three board seats are up for election next year. If you are a co-op electric and/or fiber customer interested in serving, a candidate application packet will be made available online from Nov. 1 to Dec. 31. Fill out the required forms, secure 30 or more valid co-op customer signatures, and gather the required documentation. Your completed packet must be returned to our Cassopolis office by 5:00 p.m. EST on Dec. 31 to be vetted. Please note: To ensure all necessary supporting documentation is submitted, we recommend turning in your candidate application and customer signatures in advance of the final due date. If you meet all director qualifications outlined at teammidwest.com/director-requirements, you will be placed on the ballot for one of the three terms for July 2027–2030. Ballots will be emailed to the district members on or around April 19, 2027, and must be submitted by May 14. Board members must reside in the district they represent. Please note that exact dates are subject to change. Seats in Districts 3, 4, and 8 will be up for election. Please note: Anyone running for our board of directors in the current elections must collect signatures of support from fellow MEC electric and/or fiber customers in their district. That means that you may be visited at your home or business by someone seeking signatures. You are not required to sign their petition unless you support their effort to join our board.
Ron Armstrong
Clarence “Topper” Barth
Erika Escue-Cadieux
District 3 is currently represented by Ron Armstrong of Lawton, District 4 by Clarence “Topper” Barth of Three Rivers, and District 8 by Erika Escue-Cadieux of Onsted. All three current directors plan to run for re-election. Visit teammidwest.com/district-maps to find your district and director. For more information about serving on the board of directors, please call the cooperative at 800-492-5989 or send an email to board.inquiries@teammidwest.com.
VOTE FOR YOUR DIRECTOR ELECTRONICALLY You will receive your ballot via email on or around April 19, 2027. The email will come from the MEC election coordinator and will include instructions on the voting process. Please verify that we have the correct email address on file by logging into SmartHub and going to Menu > Settings > Contact Methods. You can also call us at 800-492-5989. Please verify your information by March 1. In the meantime, please add noreply@directvote.net as an approved sender in your email account. Since every email provider is unique, we recommend that you refer to the support section of your email account for instructions on how to do this.
Internet Bill Assistance MEC proudly participates in the Lifeline Program, a federal initiative that provides a monthly credit on telephone or internet bills for income-qualified customers. Qualifying customers can receive a $9.25 credit on internet, phone, or bundled service. Residents of Tribal lands can get a $34.25 credit on internet, phone, or bundled service. Seniors who receive only phone service are eligible for a $12.35 credit. Visit teammidwest.com/lifeline to see if you qualify.
MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES
5
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.
Generosity Goes Global at Rosco’s Pizza Would you recognize a request for help on a busy night? One of our fiber internet customers, Rosco’s Pizza in Union, Michigan, recently received an unusual phone call that resulted in an incredible piece of community outreach. The restaurant has established a meal wall for members of the community to donate food to locals in need. The meal wall has received worldwide attention and is a shining example of why MEC is proud to serve the many community-minded businesses of rural southern Michigan.
A Call for Help One night as she was taking care of dinner orders, Manager Shanna Crice received a phone call asking if the restaurant threw away food at the end of the night. Crice told her they didn’t because they make pizzas to order. The woman hung up, but Crice couldn’t shake the feeling that there had been a deeper meaning behind the call and took to Facebook. “I didn’t take the time to ask more questions and it threw me off,” Crice explained on Facebook. “My conscious hasn’t let me put it down. So if this was you, and maybe you
were hungry and I dismissed it, please call back so we can have a different conversation.”
Photo courtesy of Rosco’s Pizza
While Crice doesn’t know if the original caller saw the post, it has over 100,000 likes at the time of writing, with people from other states and even countries chiming in. “Don’t know how I can help as a Nigerian but because of this, I am going to pay an ‘extra attention’ to the first four needy people I see on the road today,” said one commenter.
The Generosity of Others Due to the popularity of the post, Crice started a meal wall. People can donate a $10 meal ticket that gets posted on a bulletin board at Rosco’s. Those in need can stop in and take a ticket to enjoy a meal supported by someone who cares. The story has received national attention from outlets like TODAY.com, which Crice says boosted the number of donations they’ve received (and the number of people they can help). People from as far away as Spain and Australia have purchased tickets for the wall. Crice has also reached out to local schools and churches so that they can
share information about the wall with people who could benefit from it. “It has been an amazing journey and there have been lots of ‘feel goods’ that go along with it,” Crice says. “My favorite part has definitely been the hugs and tears from a couple that obviously really needed to utilize the wall. And they were extremely grateful.”
Donations Welcome If you’d like to support the meal wall, you have a couple of options: • Stop into Rosco’s (15314 US Highway 12, Union, MI) and ask to add a donation to your order. • Donate via CashApp ($Roscospizzamealboard). Some people have also mailed in checks.
Feature Your Business in Country Lines If your business receives monthly service from MEC, you could be eligible to be featured in a future issue of Country Lines magazine!
Customers donating to the meal wall. (Photo courtesy of Rosco’s Pizza)
8
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
Send us an email at pr@teammidwest.com with your business’ name and service address to let us know you’d like to be considered. There is no cost.
Building Tomorrow’s Success District 3 Director Ron Armstrong often thinks about legacy, how today’s decisions will affect tomorrow, and what we can do to leave things better than we found them. It’s not just lip service. At his farm, Man Fort Farm LLC, he’s planted several rows of maple trees as a way to promote conservation, maple syrup production, and natural beauty that can be enjoyed for generations. And as an MEC board member, he helps his fellow directors make decisions that will ensure customers can benefit from a strong cooperative for years to come.
Becoming a Director Ron was born on a farm in Hastings, Michigan—the same farm where his mother resides to this day. After moving to Lawton in 1986, he became a customer of MEC, which at the time was called Fruit Belt Electric Cooperative. In 1997, Fruit Belt merged with Southeastern Michigan Rural Electric Cooperative in Adrian, Michigan, to form Midwest Energy Cooperative (later renamed Midwest Energy & Communications). MEC launched propane service the following year, mailing postcards to let customers know about the new service.
“Since Midwest was new to this business, I saw some opportunities to enhance the customer experience, so I leveraged my voice as a member to meet with the board of directors,” Ron says. “Little did I know that I would also learn that there was a vacancy in my district.” After interviewing several candidates, the board invited Ron to become the new District 3 director.
Growing Stronger Ron’s career has been characterized by the same goal-oriented thinking that led him to plant maple trees: the desire for today’s work to blossom into tomorrow’s successes. Starting as a bagger at a Kroger grocery store in high school, Ron worked his way through every department on a mission to become the store manager. That experience opened the door for the opportunity to join Honee Bear Canning, which then allowed him to form relationships with growers and retailers in the United States, Peru, Mexico, New Zealand, and even Australia. Although he retired in 2014, he remains active in the frozen fruit and vegetable industry, using the many building blocks from his career journey to bring new products to market
“ As MEC grew, so did our ability to offer more items to our customers in a competitive and service-oriented environment. Our daily goal is to deliver on our customers’ expectations.”
and help growers maximize their success. Ron draws on this business experience and depth of knowledge in his work as an MEC director. “As MEC grew, so did our ability to offer more items to our customers in a competitive and serviceoriented environment. Our daily goal is to deliver on our customers’ expectations,” Ron says. “I continue to serve on the board to contribute back to MEC the experience, wisdom, and knowledge that I’ve gained being part of this team.” Since he joined in 1986, new opportunities like propane and fiber internet service have allowed MEC to grow into the cooperative it is today. As Ron serves alongside his fellow board members, he looks for further opportunities to strengthen the cooperative, ensuring through their efforts that MEC can continue to provide excellent, reliable service for future generations to enjoy. After all, maple trees don’t grow in a day.
MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES
9
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
MEC in the Community PAW PAW WINE & HARVEST FESTIVAL We were one of the proud sponsors for this year’s Paw Paw Wine & Harvest Festival from Sept. 11-13.
FREMONT HARVEST FESTIVAL We drove a propane truck and tossed candy to kids in the Fremont Harvest Festival Parade.
MEC Purchases 4-H Animals Daily Bread
Each year, we purchase animals at our local county fair 4-H auctions. We donate the resulting meat products to local food pantries to provide fresh protein options for families in the community who are experiencing food insecurity. This year, we donated almost 2,000 pounds of meat! Calhoun County Fair: We bought two pigs and donated approximately 330 pounds of pork to South Michigan Central Food Bank in Battle Creek.
Share the Warmth
Cass County Fair: We bought two pigs and donated approximately 384 pounds of pork to Marcellus Food Pantry and Action Ministries in Dowagiac. Lenawee County Fair: We bought two pigs and donated approximately 321 pounds of pork to Daily Bread of Lenawee, Share the Warmth in Adrian, and Brooklyn Food Pantry in Cement City. Eleanor’s Food Pantry
Decatur Human Services
12 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
St. Joseph County Grange Fair: We bought two pigs and donated approximately 385 pounds of pork to Mendon Food Pantry, White Pigeon Food Pantry, and Domestic and Sexual Assault Services in Three Rivers. Van Buren Youth Fair: We bought three pigs and donated approximately 505 pounds of pork to Eleanor’s Pantry in Paw Paw, Wings of God Transitional Home in Paw Paw, Cooperating Ministries Food Pantry in Hartford, and Decatur Human Services Food Pantry.
How will you
MAKE YOUR MARK? “ It’s the trip of a lifetime! What I liked most was meeting new people and seeing the monuments and memorials!” – Grant Kutzley
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.
•
•
Connect with students from across the country and form friendships that last a lifetime, all sponsored by Midwest Energy & Communications.
You and your parents or guardian must be served by Midwest Energy & Communications.
•
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
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
How to Report a Yard Light Issue via SmartHub Did you know you can easily report an issue with a yard light via SmartHub? Here’s how.
1. Log in to teammidwest.com or your SmartHub mobile app. 2. Navigate to the menu and click or tap Contact Us, followed by Service Requests all Services.
2
3. From the menu, select Request Yard Light Repair. 4. Fill out the requested details and click Send.
3
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 Midwest Energy & Communications 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 teammidwest.com/energy-savings
For Energy Savings
Winter ENERGY-SAVING TIPS FIND AND SEAL LEAKS • ENERGY STAR® says nine out of 10 United States homes don’t have enough insulation. Consider adding more (for example, in your attic) and sealing air leaks to keep warm air inside your home. Insulationinstitute.org offers helpful resources on what you need and where.
MAINTAIN YOUR HEATING SYSTEM • • • •
Replace your filter every month. Have a professional inspect your furnace every year. If you use a pellet or wood stove, clean the flue regularly. When it’s time to replace your system, select an energyefficient model. • Vacuum your vents and registers regularly, and ensure that vents aren’t blocked by drapery and furniture.
MAINTAIN YOUR FIREPLACE • Keep the damper closed when not in use. • Check the seal on the damper and make it as snug as possible. Also, add caulking around the hearth. • Install tempered glass doors and a heat-air exchange system that blows warmed air back into the room.
USE CEILING FANS
FUEL MIX REPORT
The fuel mix characteristics of Midwest Energy & Communications as required by Public Act 141 of 2000 for the 12-month period ending 6/30/26.
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.
• Set your fan to a low speed with the blades rotating in a clockwise direction to push warm air downward.
LOWER YOUR THERMOSTAT • Turn down your thermostat by a few degrees. • Consider investing in a smart thermostat that automatically adjusts temperatures.
YOUR CO-OP’S FUEL MIX
LET THE SUNSHINE IN • Open curtains or blinds on sunny days to let the sun help warm your rooms. • Close blinds and curtains at night to prevent heat from escaping.
Visit energystar.gov for more tips on improving your home’s efficiency all year long.
PUBLIC ACT 295: THE CLEAN RENEWABLE AND EFFICIENT ENERGY ACT Energy Waste Reduction Pilot Program Midwest Energy & Communications Midwest Energy & Communications administers its own Energy Waste Reduction (EWR) plan in order to comply with PA-295. As part of that EWR plan administration, the Midwest Energy & Communications Board of Directors has approved a Smart Thermostat Demand Response Pilot Program Tariff. The Tariff will become effective Jan. 1, 2027. A copy of the Tariff can be obtained from Midwest Energy & Communications.
REGIONAL AVERAGE FUEL MIX
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. Midwest Energy & Communications purchases 100% of its electricity from Wolverine Power Supply Cooperative, Inc., which provided this fuel mix and environmental data.
MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 17
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.
LOWER YOUR HEATING & COOLING COSTS. PERMANENTLY. Simply add a Well-Connect to your home.
HEAT FOR AS LOW AS
COOL FOR AS LOW AS
ALL WINTER
ALL SUMMER
$600
$50
WHY WELL-CONNECT?
TWICE AS EFFICIENT
INVENTED IN AND
AS AN AIR SOURCE HEAT PUMP
70° AIR
50° WATER
Leverages Your Existing Well
Already have a well? You're halfway there! Well-Connect turns your well into a clean energy source.
MADE IN MICHIGAN
95° AIR
38° WATER
Quick Installation
Well-Connect is simply added to your existing heating system.
Hybrid Geothermal
The Most Efficient Dual Fuel System
EXISTING FURNACE
Unlike dual fuel air source systems, Well-Connect maintains 400% efficiency year-round, saving you much more money.
After available incentives, your energy savings can pay for the system. Geothermal Made Affordable
833-436-9355 wellconnectgeo.com
SCAN HERE TO LEARN MORE No Home Visit Required for a Free Estimate
SA VE TH E SA VE TH E SA VE T SA HE VE TH E
DA T DA E TE DA DA TE
TeamMidwest.com
MEC ANNUAL MEETING OF MEMBERSHIP
JACKPOT—YOU’RE INVITED TO OUR 2027 ANNUAL MEETING! SAT., JULY
17
FIREKEEPER’S CASINO HOTEL 11177 E MICHIGAN AVE, BATTLE CREEK, MI 49014
As a member and vested owner in our electric and fiber internet cooperative, you have a voice in how MEC is governed. At the annual meeting, you’re invited to use that voice and directly speak to the MEC board of directors about all your business-related questions and comments. Plus, it’s our customer appreciation event! As a thank-you for being our customer, you can:
Stay tuned to Country Lines and your e-newsletters for more details!
We hope to see you there!
• Watch an entertainment act exclusive to MEC customers and their families • Enter a raffle for fabulous prizes • Eat a delicious, free lunch courtesy of MEC