Harvesting a Dream
Korson’s Tree Farms Heads to the White House
Time is running out to take advantage of a 30% tax credit for geothermal You may not realize it, but right beneath your feet is an almost unlimited reservoir of stored solar energy. A WaterFurnace geothermal system taps into this free and renewable resource to provide savings of up to 70% on heating, cooling, and hot water—with a comfort you have to experience to believe. Right now, you can save thousands on installation, thanks to a 30% federal tax credit. But don’t wait—this credit ends on Dec 31, 2025. Contact your local WaterFurnace dealer today to learn more!
YOUR LOCAL WATERFURNACE DEALERS
Allendale
Allendale Htg & Clg (800) 327-1937 allendaleheating.com
Berrien Springs WaterFurnace Michiana (269) 473-5667 gogreenmichgeo thermal.com
Big Rapids
Stratz Htg & Clg, Inc. (231) 796-3717 stratzgeocomfort.com
Filion/Bad Axe
Air-O-Dynamic Htg & Clg (989) 582-0137 aod-hvac.com
Grand Rapids
Bel Aire Htg & Clg 1-888-235-2473 belaire.com
Hart Adams Htg & Clg (231) 873-2665 adamsgeothermal-mi.com
Holland G.H.P. Systems Inc. (616) 396-5833 ghpsystems-inc.com
Indian River M&M Plmb & Htg (231) 238-7201 mm-plumbing.com
Lansing
Candor Mechanical (517) 920-0890 candormechanical.com
Michigan Center Comfort 1/Aire Serv of Southern Michigan (517) 764-1500 airserv.com/southernmichigan/
Mt Pleasant Walton Htg & Clg (989)772-4822 waltonheating.com
Portage Bel Aire Htg & Clg 1-888-235-2473 belaire.com
Portland ESI Htg & Clg (517) 647-6906 esiheating.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
CO-OP REBATE INCENTIVES
Alger Delta Electric: up to $2,000
Cherryland Electric: up to $2,500
Cloverland: up to $6,275
Great Lakes Energy: up to $5,000
Homeworks/Tri-County Electric: up to $4,750
Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op: up to $4,750
Thumb Electric: up to $2,000
EXECUTIVE EDITOR: Casey Clark
EDITOR: Christine Dorr
GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Karreen Bird
RECIPE EDITOR: Christin Russman
COPY EDITOR: Yvette Pecha
CONTRIBUTING EDITOR: Emily Haines Lloyd
PUBLISHER:
Michigan Electric Cooperative Association
Michigan Country Lines, USPS-591-710, is published monthly, except August and December, with periodicals postage paid at Lansing, Mich., and additional offices. It is the official publication of the Michigan Electric Cooperative Association, 201 Townsend St., Suite 900, Lansing, MI 48933. Subscriptions are authorized for members of Alger Delta, Cherryland, Great Lakes, HomeWorks Tri-County, Midwest Energy & Communications, Ontonagon, Presque Isle, and Thumb electric cooperatives by their boards of directors.
POSTMASTER: Send all UAA to CFS.
ASSOCIATION OFFICERS: Chris O’Neill, HomeWorks Tri-County Cooperative, chairman; Gabe Schneider, Cherryland Electric Cooperative, vice chairman; Shaun Lamp, Great Lakes Energy Cooperative, secretary-treasurer; John Kran, president and CEO.
CONTACT US/LETTERS TO EDITOR: Michigan Country Lines 201 Townsend St., Suite 900 Lansing, MI 48933 248-534-7358
editor@countrylines.com
CHANGE OF ADDRESS: Please notify your electric cooperative. See page 4 for contact information.
The appearance of advertising does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services advertised.
Statement of Ownership, Management and Circulation (Required by U.S.C. 3685) 1. Publication: Michigan Country Lines. 2. Publication No.: 591-710. 3. Filing date: 10/1/25. 4. Issue frequency: monthly, except Aug. and Dec. 5. No. of issues published annually: 10. 6. Complete mailing address of office of publication: Michigan Electric Cooperative Association, 201 Townsend St., Ste. 900, Lansing, MI 48933. 7. Address of headquarters of publisher: 201 Townsend St., Ste. 900, Lansing, MI 48933. 8. Full names and complete mailing address of publisher, editors, and executive editor: John Kran, Christine Dorr, Casey Clark, 201 Townsend St., Ste. 900, Lansing, MI 48933. 9. Owner: Michigan Electric Cooperative Assoc., 201 Townsend St., Ste. 900, Lansing, MI 48933. 10. Known bondholders, mortgagees, and other security holders owning or holding 1% or more of total amount of bonds, mortgages, or other securities: None. 11. Tax status: has not been changed 12. Issue date for circulation data: Sept. 2025. 13. Extent and nature of circulation:
MI CO-OP Community
RECIPE CONTEST
See details on page 10.
Chocolate, Reimagined due Dec. 1, Global Comfort Food due Jan. 1, Rice Dishes due Feb. 1.
Win a $100 bill credit!
GUEST COLUMN
Share your fondest memories and stories.
Win $200 for stories published!
MYSTERY PHOTO
See details on page 18. Win a $100 bill credit!
To enter contests, submit reader content & more, visit countrylines.com/community
6 ENERGY ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS
Helping to keep the lights on for the 25-26 heating season.
10 MI CO-OP KITCHEN
Holiday Mains: The heart of the holiday table.
14 HARVESTING A DREAM: KORSON’S TREE FARMS HEADS TO THE WHITE HOUSE
Generations of grit and growth earn the Korson family a place in history.
18 SHOP MEMBER EXCLUSIVES
Discover unique gifts from your co-op community—order the ‘Best of Michigan Country Lines Cookbook’ for holiday giving, and enjoy member pricing on the beautiful ‘Birds Doing Stuff’ 2026 calendar by Steve Jessmore.
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
John LaForge, Director, District 9 269-623-2284 jlaforge@glenergy.com
Mary O’Connell, Director, District 4 517-974-5797 moconnell@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.
A Closer Look At Storm Recovery Costs
By Shaun Lamp, Great Lakes Energy President/CEO
As fall gives way to the chill of November, our cooperative reaches a necessary milestone in our ongoing recovery from the devastating March ice storm that struck our service area.
For the past several months, we have worked diligently to be transparent about the massive costs incurred to rebuild our severely damaged electric and fiber grid and how those costs affect you. Starting with November bills, the rate adjustments that GLE’s board of directors approved in September will take effect.
As we’ve shared previously, GLE’s initial storm rebuilding and recovery cost was about $155 million. That’s more than 40 times what we typically experience in annual storm restoration costs. The work included replacing more than 3,100 utility poles and more than 4,200 miles of line. These unprecedented ice storm-related costs come at a time when our industry is already experiencing significant increases in the costs associated with providing you with safe and reliable electric service.
Because we are a member-owned, notfor-profit electric cooperative, we don’t have investors. All our costs must be covered through the rates we charge to our members. Although we are eligible for federal assistance through FEMA for up to 75% of many expenses, we have no guarantee of funding, and we need immediate revenue to pay for the storm expenses. In addition, the federal government denied Category F, Public Utilities, for reimbursement, despite an appeal from the state of Michigan; thus, some expenses will not qualify for FEMA at all.
We’ve approached these needed rate changes with two key principles in mind: ensuring the co-op’s long-term financial and operational stability and developing rates that spread the costs as fairly as possible across our membership.
In the spirit of continued transparency, I’d like to share some additional information about the cost and rate impacts:
• The approximate $155 million in storm costs doesn’t tell the whole story. To pay those expenses, we must rely on emergency loans, which come with significant longterm interest costs that are not eligible for FEMA reimbursement.
• For residential and seasonal members, we have split the rate changes between our monthly charge and the per-kWh rates in an effort to spread the cost fairly. Remember, the amount of electricity you consume is a personal choice and does not impact our fixed costs that are recovered through the monthly charge.
• On average, the rate increases are about 10% across all rate classes.
• Storm-related costs aren’t the only drivers behind the rate changes. Of the 10% increase, about 7% is tied to storm costs. The remainder is related to other rising distribution and power costs.
• Even if we ultimately do receive some FEMA funding, our rates won’t decrease, but future rate increases may be mitigated to some degree.
Despite this year’s challenges, we remain committed to your cooperative’s stability and providing you with reliable service at the best possible value. We appreciate your understanding and support.
FUEL MIX REPORT
Your Role in Reliability
How you can help us maintain a more robust electrical grid
At Great Lakes Energy, our top priority is providing you with safe reliable power. To keep that commitment, we regularly conduct system maintenance and make significant investments in new equipment and technologies to ensure the long-term reliability of our grid.
One current example of this work is our ongoing multiyear project to replace almost all of the 130,000+ electric meters across our system with new, high-tech devices. The older meters are nearing the end of their lifespan and use outdated technology, which is why these nextgeneration meters are vital for a more modern and resilient grid.
Over the next few years, tens of thousands of these meters will be replaced. This work is happening alongside other crucial projects, like upgrading power lines, installing smart grid devices, and trimming back vegetation— all focused on making your service as reliable as possible.
Please note: Crews doing meter replacement work will be in clearly marked vehicles, and members will receive an automated phone call when crews are scheduled to begin work in your area.
How You Can Help
Your cooperation is key to making this upgrade efficient and safe. Our crews need to be able to safely and quickly access our utility equipment on your property, especially the electric meter.
Please ensure the area around your meter is clear and accessible at all times. Obstacles like dense landscaping, overgrown vegetation, locked gates, or other obstacles can block access, causing delays and creating safety risks for our teams.
Providing clear and safe access to your electric meter and any other GLE equipment or infrastructure on your property is a bylaw requirement for all GLE members because it is essential in ensuring that our crews can safely and efficiently maintain, modernize, and repair our system.
By working together, we can ensure these vital upgrades and all future maintenance proceed smoothly. Your simple act of providing clear access to our equipment is a powerful way to help us keep our grid strong and your service reliable for years to come.
If you have questions about this work or our access needs for your property, please call 888-485-2537 to speak to our member services team.
NOTE: Biomass excludes wood; solid waste incineration includes landfill gas; and wind includes a long-term renewable purchase power contract in Wolverine’s mix. YOUR CO-OP’S FUEL MIX
AND WASTE
Energy Assistance Programs 2025-2026 Season
Winter Protection Plan
Contact: Local Utility Company
Add
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.
Home Heating Credit
Contact: Michigan Dept. of Treasury
You can apply for a Home Heating Credit for the 2025 tax year if you meet the income guidelines listed above (110% of poverty level) or you qualify based on alternate guidelines including household income, exemptions, and heating costs. Additional exemptions are available for seniors, disabled claimants, or claimants with 5% or more of their income from unemployment compensation. If you qualify, you may receive assistance to help pay for your winter heating bills. Forms are available mid-to-late January, wherever tax forms are provided or from the Michigan Dept. of Treasury (517-636-4486 or michigan.gov/treasury). The Home Heating Credit claim form must be filed with the Michigan Dept. of Treasury no later than Sept. 30 each year.
State Emergency Relief Program (SER)
Contact: Local Michigan Dept. of Health and Human Services (DHHS), michigan.gov/mdhhs
You do not have to be a DHHS client to apply for help with a past-due bill, shut-off notice, or the need for deliverable fuel through the SER. This program, available Nov. 1–May 31, provides most of its utility assistance during this crisis season. However, limited assistance is available outside the crisis season.
If you receive a DHHS cash grant, you may use part of it toward heat and electric bills. Apply online at the MI Bridges website: Michigan.gov/mibridges.
Low-Income Weatherization Assistance Program
Contact: Local Community Action Agency
You may be able to receive help with weatherizing your home to reduce energy use if you meet low-income eligibility guidelines (200% of poverty guidelines) or if you participate in the Dept. of Health and Human Services Family Independence Program or receive SSI. Weatherization may include caulking, weather-stripping, and insulation. Contact your local Community Action Agency for details. Visit mcaaa.org to find one in your area.
United Way
Contact: Call 2-1-1 or UWmich.org/2-1-1
2-1-1 is a free phone service operating 24 hours daily to provide information about help that may be available in a particular area with utilities and other needs. Dial 2-1-1 or visit mi211.org to find available services.
Medical Emergency Protection
Contact: Local Utility Company
You are protected from service shut-off for nonpayment of your natural gas and/ or electric bill for up to 21 days, possibly extending to 63 days, if you have a proven medical emergency. You must provide written proof from a doctor or a public health or social services official that a medical condition exists. Contact your gas or electric utility for details.
Shut-off Protection For Military Active Duty
Contact: Local Utility Company
If you or your spouse has been called into active military duty, you may apply for shut-off protection from your electric or natural gas service for up to 90 days. You may request extensions. You must still pay, but contact your utility company and they will help you set up a payment plan.
Michigan Veterans Trust Fund Emergency Grant Program
Contact: MI Veterans Trust Fund
The Trust Fund provides temporary assistance to veterans and their families facing a financial emergency or hardship, including the need for energy assistance. Contact the Michigan Veterans Trust Fund at 800-642-4838 or michiganveterans.com.
MI Energy Assistance Program
Contact: Utility or 2-1-1 in late November: 2-1-1 or 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.
Standing Up for Michigan’s Co-op Members
Statewide Effort
Reaches the White House
By John Kran, President & CEO, Michigan Electric Cooperative Association
When Michigan’s electric cooperatives faced one of the most destructive ice storms in state history last March, line crews braved freezing rain, fallen trees, and impassable roads to rebuild miles of damaged power lines and restore service to tens of thousands of homes The storm caused more than $300 million in damage across rural Michigan, with the most severe impacts in Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op’s and Great Lakes Energy’s service territories.
Because electric cooperatives are not-for-profi t and member-owned, every dollar spent on storm recovery ultimately affects local families, farmers, and small businesses. Without federal help, those costs fall directly on the people the co-ops serve.
Progress Achieved
After months of unified advocacy, President Donald Trump approved a federal disaster declaration on July 22, unlocking emergency funds to help rural communities recover. We’re grateful to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, Michigan’s bipartisan congressional delegation, and state legislative leaders for coming together to support co-op communities.
That approval was a critical fi rst step, but it didn’t go far enough. The declaration covered emergency cleanup, but not the long-term rebuilding aid known as Category F (Utilities) funding.
Why Category F Matters
Category F assistance helps utilities rebuild permanently after disasters by repairing poles, wires, and substations so systems are stronger for the future. Without it, Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op and Great Lakes Energy will face lasting fi nancial strain from the storm’s damage.
To put the challenge in perspective:
• Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op faced about $150 million in recovery costs, roughly $4,500 per member.
• Great Lakes Energy’s initial storm rebuilding and recovery cost was about $155 million, or 40 times its annual storm budget.
These fi gures refl ect the storm’s extraordinary impact on northern Michigan and why continued federal support is essential to full recovery.
“Michigan’s electric cooperatives acted quickly, restored power safely, and stood by their communities in a time of crisis. Now, we’re asking Washington to stand by them.”
A Unified Grassroots Response
To help secure full recovery support, the Michigan Electric Cooperative Association (MECA) partnered with the cooperatives and National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) to mobilize the Voices for Cooperative Power (VCP) platform. Together, we launched the Michigan Ice Storm Petition, urging the White House and FEMA to approve Category F funding for Michigan’s co-ops.
The petition focused on the hardest-hit areas served by Presque Isle and Great Lakes and gathered nearly 12,500 signatures from co-op members and advocates statewide. We recently delivered those signatures to the White House, ensuring that Michigan’s rural voices were heard at the highest level.
The Power of Cooperation
This effort shows what makes electric cooperatives unique. Working through MECA and NRECA, Michigan’s co-ops speak with one strong, unifi ed voice representing rural homes, farms, and businesses across the state and nation.
Michigan’s electric cooperatives acted quickly, restored power safely, and stood by their communities in a time of crisis. Now, we’re asking Washington to stand by them.
Celebrating The Energy Of Giving
At Great Lakes Energy, our employees are the heart of your cooperative, dedicated not just to delivering the electric, fiber internet, and telephone services you depend on daily, but also to making a positive impact on the communities we serve.
The same powerful drive that motivates our employees to uphold the cooperative principle of “concern for community” in their work also fuels their personal lives. Many members of our staff volunteer their time and talents across the service area, making a significant positive difference in the community.
Their commitment, from coaching youth sports teams to serving on nonprofit boards and volunteering at food banks, local schools, and various community service organizations, is truly inspiring.
While this community-minded spirit of has always been central to our co-op culture, in August 2023, we launched the “Energy of Giving” program to recognize and celebrate these invaluable employee contributions. The program encourages employees to log their volunteer hours and share local volunteer opportunities with colleagues, making it easier for everyone to get involved.
“Coaching is more than teaching the sport. It’s about showing these kids that someone believes in them. Seeing them develop from year to year is by far the most rewarding aspect.”
The Energy of Giving program serves as a catalyst for coordinated efforts, supporting employee fundraising drives, collection projects, and other charitable initiatives throughout our local communities.
In the program’s first two years, GLE staff members have logged nearly 5,500 hours of volunteer time.
In September, GLE employees selected Bret Wiersma as this year’s Volunteer of the Year. Bret, who is a working foreman based out of our Wayland office, has a passion for inspiring young athletes. In just one year, Bret has volunteered more than 400 hours to coaching youth baseball, football, and wrestling.
Bret said, for him, volunteering isn’t about recognition. It’s about creating opportunities for kids to learn teamwork, discipline, and confidence that last long after the final whistle.
“Coaching is more than teaching the sport,” Bret said. “It’s about showing these kids that someone believes in them. Seeing them develop from year to year is by far the most rewarding aspect.”
As part of his award, Bret had the opportunity to direct a $200 donation to a charity of his choice. He selected Hero Services of West Michigan, an organization dedicated to supporting veterans, first responders, and their families.
We’re proud of our employees’ contributions to the community, both through their work at GLE and their dedication to volunteerism. Their commitment to making a positive impact is a testament to the cooperative spirit that drives our organization.
PET PERSONALITIES
1. MOST VOTES No signature required, only belly rubs, Todd Erickson, Manistee
2. Nigel the labradoodle and his fall beanie, Logan Devries, Wayland
3. Lake days = ruff days, Stephanie Haight, Walkerville
4. My old man, Betty Hodges, Gaylord
5. Gus the hunter, Kathleen Runey, Vanderbilt
6. Sweet Guinness, Tracy Claramunt, Harbor Springs
Enter to win a $200 energy bill credit!
Submit Your “Favorite Hobby” 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 2026 will be entered into a drawing to win a $200 bill credit in December 2026.
HOLIDAY MAINS
The Heart of the Holiday Table
RECIPE CONTEST Win a $100 energy bill credit! Chocolate, Reimagined due Dec. 1, Global Comfort Food due Jan. 1, Rice Dishes due Feb. 1. Submit your favorite recipe for a chance to win a $100 bill credit and have your recipe featured in Country Lines with a photo and a video. Submit your recipe at micoopkitchen.com, or send it via email (include your full name and co-op) to recipes@countrylines.com
WINNING RECIPE!
SIRLOIN TIPS WITH MUSHROOMS
Terry Baxter, Great Lakes Energy
2 tablespoons butter, divided
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1¼ pounds sirloin steak, cubed
1 clove garlic, minced or pressed
¾ pound fresh mushrooms, sliced (about 4 cups)
¹⁄3 cup beef broth
¹⁄3 cup dry red wine or water
1 teaspoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon Dijon-style mustard
1 teaspoon cornstarch
½ cup whipping cream
• chopped parsley, for garnish
Preheat oven to 300 F. In a wide skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of butter and the oil. Add the meat, brown slightly, then add garlic and stir. When meat pieces are browned (but not cooked through), transfer to a casserole dish with a lid. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon butter to the skillet. Sauté the mushrooms for 1–2 minutes, then add to the meat mixture. Cover. Bake slowly for 45–50 minutes until the meat is tender. Meanwhile, add the broth, wine or water, and soy sauce to the pan in which the meat was browned. Boil, stirring up the brownings until reduced to about half. In a small bowl, blend the mustard, cornstarch, and cream until smooth. Add to the pan, stir, and boil sauce until thick. When the meat has fi nished cooking, transfer only the juice from the meat into the sauce. Stir and bring to a boil, while whisking, until smooth and thick. Add the meat to the sauce and stir in. Sprinkle with parsley. This can be served over white rice or wide egg noodles. Makes 4 servings.
Watch a video of this month’s winning recipe at micoopkitchen.com/videos
BAKED SALMON
Ann Pihlaja, Ontonagon REA
4 tablespoons butter
1 small onion, minced
2–3 garlic cloves, minced
3 tablespoons lemon juice, divided
1 salmon fi llet (1½–2½ pounds), deboned
½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1–2 tablespoons minced parsley, divided
• cooking spray, optional
Preheat oven to 450 F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil that overlaps the sides of the pan. In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the onion and cook on medium heat for about 3 minutes or until the onions are softened. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, stirring. Remove from
heat and stir in half the lemon juice. Cool slightly. Place the salmon, skin side down, diagonally to fi t across the aluminum foil, making sure it is completely deboned. (Note: If you don’t add cooking spray to the foil, the salmon comes off the foil without the skin.) Season with salt and pepper. Spoon the butter mixture over the salmon covering the entire surface. Sprinkle with half of the minced parsley. Roast in the oven for 12–17 minutes, depending on how thick the salmon is. The best way to check for doneness is to use a fork to gently prick the salmon, and if it flakes easily, it’s ready. Either use several spatulas to take the salmon off the baking sheet in one piece, or cut it into sections. Squeeze the remaining half of the lemon juice over the fish and sprinkle with the remaining parsley. Serve immediately.
SUPERB SPINACH LASAGNA ROLLUPS
Deb Finedell, Great Lakes Energy
8 lasagna noodles
1¾ cups ricotta cheese
2 cups cottage cheese
2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, shredded & divided
1 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded & divided
3 cups fresh baby spinach, chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
3 cups spaghetti sauce, divided
• fresh parsley, chopped
Preheat oven to 350 F. Cook the lasagna noodles in boiling water to al dente, then
drain and cool. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta and cottage cheese, 1½ cups Monterey Jack, ½ cup Parmesan cheese, spinach, garlic, and salt and pepper. Spread half of the sauce into the bottom of a 9-inch broiler-safe baking dish. Lay the lasagna noodles evenly on a large cutting board or fl at surface. Spread the fi lling mixture evenly onto each noodle. Gently roll up each noodle lengthwise and place seam side down in the baking dish. Drizzle rollups with remaining sauce and top with remaining cheese. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and broil for 1–2 minutes, or until the cheese is dark golden brown. Garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy!
SLOW COOKER BEEF STEW
Ruth Armbrustmacher, HomeWorks Tri-County
2 pounds beef stew meat (such as chuck roast), cut into 1-inch cubes
¼ cup fl our
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 onion, chopped
1½ cups beef broth
3 potatoes, peeled and diced
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons cold water
1 (10-ounce) bag frozen mixed vegetables, thawed
Place beef in a slow cooker. In a small bowl, mix together the fl our, salt, and black pepper. Pour over meat, and stir to coat it evenly. Add the garlic powder, bay leaf, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, onion, beef broth, and diced potatoes to the slow cooker. Stir to combine all ingredients. Cover and cook on low for 10–12 hours. To thicken, in a small bowl, whisk the cornstarch with the cold water until smooth. Add to the slow cooker and stir. Add the thawed mixed vegetables to the slow cooker. Stir and serve.
Energy Wise Changes Take Effect Jan. 1
For many years, Great Lakes Energy has helped members make their homes and businesses more energy efficient through our Energy Optimization program, called Energy Wise. The program changed over time in response to both our members’ needs and state legislation mandates.
GLE first offered its Energy Optimization program in 2009 in response to Michigan’s Clean, Renewable, and Efficient Energy Act (PA 295), which provided incentives for energy- and cost-saving upgrades. Over the years, the law has changed, most recently amended in 2023 by Public Act 229.
In response to the most recent amendments to the law, GLE must meet stricter energy-saving requirements, which means we must make significant changes to the Energy Wise program. The added costs of meeting these stricter requirements are also the driving force behind an upcoming increase in the Energy Optimization Surcharge our members pay. Starting in January, the surcharge will increase by $0.00118 to $0.00316 per kWh—about $1 per month for an average residential member using 800 kWh per month.
Energy Wise Changes
Many Energy Wise incentives will end or change on Jan. 1, 2026. Here are a few examples:
Rebates to be discontinued:
• EV chargers
• All electric lawn and garden tools
Rebate changes:
• Mini split heat pump rebates will be reduced from $900 to $500 per outdoor unit.
• Many appliance rebates will be modified, some reduced and some increased.
Members who wish to take advantage of current Energy Wise incentives must purchase and/or have the qualifying product or system installed by Dec. 31, 2025. To claim your rebate, you must complete the online application within 60 days of product installation and/or purchase.
Visit gtlakes.com/energy-wise to learn more about the current Energy Wise offerings, see a complete list of the changes that will take effect on Jan. 1, and get information on how to apply for a rebate on a qualifying purchase.
People Fund Helps Preserve The Light
When most people think of iconic Charlevoix landmarks, there’s a good chance that the South Pier Light, which has guided mariners to the safety of the channel and Round Lake since 1948, is the first to come to mind.
Thanks to the hard work and dedication of the Charlevoix Historical Society, the financial support of community donors, and a wide range of grants, the light will continue to serve as a welcoming beacon for many years to come.
Earlier this year, GLE’s People Fund awarded nearly $117,000 in grants during its first grant cycle of the year. Among those grants was one for $8,000 to the Charlevoix Historical Society to help pay for the most recent restoration work needed for the South Pier Light. The work, which took place this past summer, included localized interior and exterior painting. On the interior, the work addressed peeling paint that was caused mostly by original mill scale on the steel.
The South Pier Light is just one of the Charlevoix Historical Society’s many
Since it was established in 1999, the People Fund has awarded more than $5 million in grants to support organizations making a meaningful difference in the communities we serve. The grants are entirely funded by GLE members who agree to have their monthly electric bills rounded up to the next whole dollar. For an average monthly contribution of about $0.50, GLE members can work together to make a positive impact in their communities.
preservation efforts. Earlier this year, the society received the Michigan State Historic Preservation Office Governor’s Award for Preservation for its efforts to restore and preserve the South Pier Light, the Harsha House, and the train depot.
To learn more about the Charlevoix Historical Society, including its many preservation and educational programs, and how to get involved with the organization through
If you aren’t already a People Fund participant, enrolling is easy!
• Log into your GLE online account or the GLE mobile app and select “People Fund” under the “Bill and Pay” menu.
• Visit gtlakes.com/people-fund, select the “Sign Up Now” button, and complete the online form.
• Call (888) 485-2537 and speak to a member of our member services team.
membership or contributions, visit chxhistory.com
The support for the Charlevoix Historical Society is just one example of how the People Fund empowers local initiatives by harnessing the collective power of our members’ small individual contributions. It’s a testament to the generosity of Great Lakes Energy members, proving that together, a little can go a long way in making a profound difference.
For more information about the People Fund, including a list of recent grant recipients and information about the grant application process, visit gtlakes.com/people-fund
Pictured near the Charlevoix South Pier Light are: (foreground, from left) historical society representatives Lyle Gennett, Richard Spring, Denise Fate, and Tom Darnton; (background from left) contractor representatives Ian Fillmore, Geno Wierckz, and Zach Carlson.
Dream
Korson’s Tree Farms Heads to the White House
By Emily Haines Lloyd
For the Korson family of Montcalm County, life has always been measured by the seasons. Spring brings planting, summer calls for trimming, fall demands harvest, and winter delivers the reward—families gathered around Christmas trees that took a decade or more to grow. This year, that steady cycle of farm work has blossomed into a once-in-a-lifetime honor: One of their evergreens will soon stand tall in the White House Blue Room as the official Christmas tree of the United States. The Korsons earned this honor by winning a National Christmas Tree Association contest.
“This is our Super Bowl,” says Great Lakes Energy member Rex Korson, who now runs the farm his parents started back in 1973. “You don’t get here overnight. It’s years of work, of always asking yourself how to get better.”
A Family Business Built on Determination
The roots of Korson’s Tree Farms run deep. What began with Rex’s father Wayne, an accountant who turned to trees when steady work proved hard to fi nd, has grown into a 1,000acre operation that produces tens of thousands of trees and wreaths each year. Over the decades, Wayne, Rex, and now the next generation have poured themselves into the farm. Their journey refl ects what farming in Michigan means: resilience when times are lean and pride when the hard work pays off.
Rex’s children, including his oldest son, Jack, who recently finished his MBA
Photos by Cory Smith, DN Photo
Jack Korson uses a telescoping measuring stick to check the height of the tree that was selected as the official 2025 White House Christmas Tree.
and joined the farm full time, represent the future of that legacy. Like so many family farms, the torch is being passed along, one growing season at a time.
While the Korson name is on the farm, Rex and his wife Jessica are quick to point out they don’t do this alone. The employees who shear, haul, irrigate, and harvest year after year are part of the family.
“We couldn’t do any of this without our crews,” Jessica said. “They give their full effort, and we couldn’t ask for better. They’re not just employees; they’re part of the Korson story.”
Competing With Heart
Christmas tree competitions aren’t new to the Korsons. Over the years, they’ve supplied trees for the Michigan Governor’s Mansion and even the vice president’s home. But the White House stage is the pinnacle, the place every grower dreams of. It didn’t
come easily. The family has entered the national competition six times before fi nally taking home the Grand Champion title.
Winning requires more than luck. It’s generations of knowledge, an eye for detail, and the kind of gumption that pushes a farmer to rise before dawn and stay out until dark.
“Each year we think ‘how can we improve?’” said Jessica. “You don’t settle. You just keep pushing yourself to be better.”
A Win for Michigan, a Win for Farmers
When news broke that Korson’s Tree Farms had fi nally claimed the crown, their hometown and the Michigan farming community rejoiced. Neighbors stopped by with congratulations. Calls poured in from fellow growers across the state. For Rex and Jessica, it wasn’t about
“
“Each year we think ‘how can we improve?’ You don’t settle. You just keep pushing yourself to be better.”
politics or spotlight. It was about representing Michigan farmers— the people who work hard, act as stewards, and ask for little more than the chance to keep their land thriving for the next generation.
After all, Michigan ranks third in the nation in Christmas tree production and grows more varieties than any other state. The Korsons’ win shines a national light on that strength and on the thousands of families who make their living in agriculture.
Heading to Washington
The head White House usher and grounds superintendent visited the farm to select the exact tree—an 18-foot evergreen tall enough to replace the Blue Room’s chandelier. In November, just before Thanksgiving, the Korson family will stand on the White House lawn as the First Lady accepts their tree, delivered by horsedrawn carriage.
It is the fruit of decades of labor, a once-in-a-lifetime dream rooted in patience, tenacity, and family. However, deep roots don’t stop growing. For the Korsons, this honor is not a fi nish line but a reminder that with determination and care, even a once-in-a-lifetime moment can grow again—perhaps into twice in a lifetime. Perhaps even more.
Rex and Jessica Korson, owners of Korson’s Tree Farms in Sidney Township, place a red, white, and blue ribbon on the tree that was ultimately selected.
From left, Rex Korson and his father, Wayne Korson, measure the width of a tree as Dale Haney, the chief groundskeeper of the White House, works to select the official 2025 White House Christmas Tree.
2026 Truestream Construction Plans Announced
Great Lakes Energy is pleased to announce the first half of its 2026 Truestream construction plan that will bring life-changing, high-speed internet service to thousands of members in eight areas in the cooperative’s Scottville service district. This service district includes rural portions of Lake, Manistee, and Mason counties.
The 2026 construction plan will take place in four phases. The first two phases are listed below. The remaining phases will be released when information is available in early 2026.
Members can enter their address in a mapping tool available at truestreamfiber.com/status to determine the Truestream service area for their location.
Marking more milestones
Despite delays stemming from the ice storm that caused significant damage to the northern portions of our service area in March, GLE celebrated many major Truestream milestones and accomplishments in 2025, including:
• Crews installed an additional 700 miles of fiber trunkline.
• More than 4,000 new Truestreamers were connected to the network.
• In the weeks following the ice storm, our crews restored more than 9,400 internet outages, which included replacing more than 1,000 runs of fiber to service locations.
PHASE 1
• LAKE COUNTY 4
• FOUNTAIN 2
• FOUNTAIN 3
• FOUNTAIN 4
Mainline construction for this phase will begin in late 2025 and is expected to be completed and lit in the spring of 2026. Construction to homes and in-home installations will start in the summer and continue for several months. Registration in these areas opens in mid-December.
• Thanks to the many backup systems we have in place, Truestream’s core backbone network has maintained 100% availability for the year, including the duration of the ice storm. Despite the significant damage the storm caused to our infrastructure, our network’s core connection to the internet remained operational.
PHASE 2
• FOUNTAIN 1
• VICTORY 1
• VICTORY 2
• VICTORY 3
Mainline construction for this phase will began in early 2026 and is expected to be completed and lit in the summer of 2026. Construction to homes and in-home installations will start in the fall and continue for several months. Registration in these areas opens in March 2026.
• In the face of the many challenges this year has presented, Truestream continues to receive very high satisfaction ratings from our members.
In 2026, GLE will continue to leverage more than $46 million in Realizing Opportunity with Broadband Infrastructure Networks (ROBIN) grants it was awarded in 2023.
As construction continues throughout the year, additional details will be updated in our monthly construction updates at: truestreamfiber.com/news/
FOUNTAIN 1
FOUNTAIN 4
FOUNTAIN 2
FOUNTAIN 3
VICTORY 2
VICTORY 4
VICTORY 1
LAKE COUNTY 4
Make Your Mark Youth Tour Adventure Awaits
Every generation leaves behind a legacy, footprints that shape the future. The Electric Cooperative Youth Tour is your chance to do the same. For over 60 years, electric cooperatives have sent high school students to Washington, D.C., to discover their voice, step into history, and begin writing the story only they can tell.
This once-in-a-lifetime experience isn’t just about seeing the nation’s capital. It’s about preparing students to lead, to grow, and to make their mark on the world.
What’s in it for students?
Delegates from Michigan will join more than 1,800 students from across the country in Washington, D.C., in June of 2026. During the trip, students will:
• Develop leadership skills through hands-on experiences and workshops.
• Strengthen their resumes with a nationally recognized program that stands out to colleges and employers.
• Connect with peers from 44 states, building friendships that last long after the trip.
• Meet with elected officials and learn how government impacts their communities.
• Experience history up close by visiting worldclass museums and monuments.
• Learn about cooperatives and how they support rural communities across America.
The program is coordinated by the Michigan Electric Cooperative Association and the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, with local participant funding provided by Great Lakes Energy.
Don’t let this opportunity pass by If you know a high school student who is ready to grow as a leader and take the next step in their journey, encourage them to apply today.
For details, visit gtlakes.com/youthprograms or check out our social media channels.
This is more than a trip—it’s a chance to leave your mark.
‘Birds Doing Stuff’ 2026 Calendar by Steve Jessmore
After last year’s feature, we’re thrilled to share Steve Jessmore’s fifth “Birds Doing Stuff” calendar—a collection that celebrates birds being, well, birds. From powerful raptors to playful ducks and the fragile Great Lakes piping plovers, each image offers a glimpse into their world—a reminder of how much life and wonder surround us when we take the time to look.
Jessmore, a five-time Michigan Photographer of the Year and multi-year National Audubon Photography Award winner, uses his lens to connect people with the birds and habitats that surround them—often right in their own backyards.
As a thank-you to readers, enjoy 20% off any order through Dec. 10, 2025, using code COOP20 at stevejessmore.com
Calendars, notecards, and fi ne-art prints are available online— perfect gifts for bird and nature lovers alike.
Cooking For A Cause
Make this holiday season special by ordering your copies and sharing the gift of community and care. Each purchase supports two deserving Michigan charities: Feeding America Local Food Banks and Cooperative Family Fund.
Where In Michigan Is This?
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
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.
SEPTEMBER 2025 WINNER! Our Mystery Photo winner is Gay Kellner, an Alger Delta Cooperative member who correctly identified the photo as the 32-foot-long Steel Sturgeon statue in Indian River, Michigan.
/greatlakesenergy gtlakes.com
