November 2025 PIE&G

Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op

November/December 2025

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES Harvesting a Dream Korson’s Tree Farms Heads to the White House

Community First Fund Annual Report

‘Tis the Season to Save

Portable Generator Safety Tips

Act now to receive a

30% federal tax credit through 2025*

7 Series Ultimate comfort and efficiency

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

CO-OP REBATE INCENTIVES

Allendale Allendale Htg & Clg (800) 327-1937 allendaleheating.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sunfield Mark Woodman Plmb & Htg (517) 886-1138 mwphonline.com

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

Three Rivers Bel Aire Htg & Clg 1-888-235-2473 belaire.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

Mt. Pleasant Walton Htg & Clg (989) 772-4822 waltonheating.com

Traverse City Geofurnace Htg & Clg (231) 943-1000 geofurnace.com

WaterFurnace is a registered trademark of WaterFurnace International, Inc. *ENERGY STAR-rated units qualify for 30% federal tax credit through 2025

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

visit us at waterfurnace.com/mi

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES EXECUTIVE EDITOR: Casey Clark

Contents countrylines.com

November/December 2025 Vol. 45, No. 10

/michigancountrylines

/michigancountrylines

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.

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POSTMASTER: Send all UAA to CFS. ASSOCIATION OFFICERS: Chris O’Neill, HomeWorks Tri-County Cooperative, chairman; Gabe Schneider, Cherryland Electric Cooperative, vice chairman; Shaun Lamp, Great Lakes Energy Cooperative, secretary-treasurer; John Kran, president and CEO. CONTACT US/LETTERS TO EDITOR: Michigan Country Lines 201 Townsend St., Suite 900 Lansing, MI 48933 248-534-7358 editor@countrylines.com CHANGE OF ADDRESS: Please notify your electric cooperative. See page 4 for contact information.

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The appearance of advertising does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services advertised.

Statement of Ownership, Management and Circulation (Required by U.S.C. 3685) 1. Publication: Michigan Country Lines. 2. Publication No.: 591-710. 3. Filing date: 10/1/25. 4.

Issue frequency: monthly, except Aug. and Dec. 5. No. of issues published annually: 10. 6. Complete mailing address of office of publication: Michigan Electric Cooperative Association, 201 Townsend St., Ste. 900, Lansing, MI 48933. 7. Address of headquarters of publisher: 201 Townsend St., Ste. 900, Lansing, MI 48933. 8. Full names and complete mailing address of publisher, editors, and executive editor: John Kran, Christine Dorr, Casey Clark, 201 Townsend St., Ste. 900, Lansing, MI 48933. 9. Owner: Michigan Electric Cooperative Assoc., 201 Townsend St., Ste. 900, Lansing, MI 48933. 10. Known bondholders, mortgagees, and other security holders owning or holding 1% or more of total amount of bonds, mortgages, or other securities: None. 11. Tax status: has not been changed 12. Issue date for circulation data: Sept. 2025. 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 2025 17. Signature and title of editor: Christine Dorr, editor

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.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

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The Season for Giving Thanks

By Allan Berg, President & CEO

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Sandy Borowicz, Chairperson 231-627-9220 • Term Expires 2027 Daryl Peterson, Vice Chairperson 989-742-3145 • Term Expires 2027 Sally Knopf, Secretary 989-734-4196 • Term Expires 2027 Brentt Lucas, Treasurer 989-766-3678 • Term Expires 2025 John Brown 231-625-2099 • Term Expires 2026 Kurt Krajniak 989-884-3037 • Term Expires 2025 Chris Nagel 616-240-8727 • Term Expires: 2026 Gerald Smigelski 989-306-3750 • Term Expires 2026 Raymond Wozniak 989-766-1003 • Term Expires 2025 President & CEO: Allan Berg aberg@pieg.com Co-op Editor: Sommer Poquette spoquette@pieg.com Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op 3149 Main Street (M-211) Onaway, MI 49765 Business Office & Billing: 989-733-8515 Toll-Free: 800-423-6634 Gas Emergency Toll-Free: 800-655-8565

November is always a time to pause and reflect on what we’re thankful for. This year, I am especially grateful for the resilience and generosity of our cooperative family.

First and foremost, I want to extend heartfelt thanks to our dedicated lineworkers, mutual aid crews, and our entire PIE&G team. The March ice storm was the most destructive event our co-op has ever faced, but your skill, dedication, and tireless work ethic allowed us to restore power quickly and safely under incredibly difficult conditions. You are true heroes, and your work embodies the very best of the cooperative spirit.

I also want to recognize our elected leaders across the state who understand the storm’s impact on our region and have been working hard to secure disaster relief funding.

Looking ahead, I’m deeply thankful for the commitment of our fiber team. Their work is ensuring our rural communities have the same opportunities as urban areas, an investment that is vital for our collective future.

Of course, one of the things that makes Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op unique is the spirit of community among our members. Time and again, you’ve shown your generosity by rounding up your utility bills to support important causes like our local schools, fire departments, food pantries, and the many other organizations that help our community in times of need. Your willingness to give back speaks volumes about the character of our membership and the power of neighbors helping neighbors.

As we enter this season of gratitude, I also want to thank you, our members, for your trust, patience, and engagement throughout this year—a year that has tested us in ways we could never have imagined. But we have shown that when we come together as a cooperative and as a community, we can overcome any challenge.

From all of us at Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op, I wish you and your family a safe, warm, and joyful holiday season.

Happy Holidays

PIE&G natural gas rates and charges are not regulated by the Michigan Public Service Commission.

Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025

pieg.com

PIE&G will be closed on the following dates: THANKSGIVING: Nov. 27–28 CHRISTMAS: Dec. 24–25 NEW YEARS DAY: Jan. 1 Report outages or natural gas emergencies anytime by calling 800-423-6634. Access your accounts anytime at pieg.com, on the SmartHub mobile app, or with pay by phone at 855-939-3541.

/PIEGCooperative

/PIEGCooperative

Portable Generator Safety Tips As we head into the winter storm season, it’s important to remember generator safety. If you are using a generator or plan to use one, it must be connected properly to protect both your household and our crews. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, an estimated 85 people in the U.S. die each year from carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning caused by gasoline-powered portable generators.

Please take a moment to review these safety tips to help keep our lineworkers and your family safe when using a portable generator.

1. DO: Ensure your main breaker is turned off on your service panel when connecting a generator. This is a crucial safety step to ensure our line crews safely restore power to your home or business.

2. D O: Install backup CO alarms.

3. D O: Always keep children and pets away from portable generators.

4. DO: Position generators at least 25 feet outside the home, away from doors, windows, and vents that can allow CO to enter the house or building.

5. DO: Ensure your generator is properly grounded. Use a portable ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) to prevent electric shock injuries.

6. D O: Use three-pronged extension cords rated to handle the generator’s load. Inspect extension cords for cuts, frays, or other damage before use.

7. D ON’T: Operate a generator inside your home or an enclosed (or partially enclosed) space. Generators produce high levels of CO, which can be deadly.

8. DON’T: Open windows or doors while the generator runs.

9. D ON’T: Overload generators. They should only be used to power essential equipment. Ensure your generator can handle the load of the items you plan to power.

A portable generator can be convenient during a power outage, but it can quickly become hazardous or even deadly if not operated properly. Before operating your portable generator, read the owner’s manual for important safety information and tips.

If you have questions about the proper use of portable generators, we’re here to help. Call us at (800) 423-6634.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

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Energy Assistance Programs 2025-2026 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 2025–2026 # in Household

150% Poverty Guide Maximum Income

# in Household

150% Poverty Guide Maximum Income

1

$23,475

5

$56,475

2

31,725

6

64,725

3

39,975

7

72,975

4

48,225

8

81,225

Add $8,250 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

$17,215

5

$41,415

2

23,265

6

47,465

3

29,315

7

53,515

4

35,365

8

59,565

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 $6,050 for each exemption over 8.

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.

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.

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025

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-profit 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 first 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 financial 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.

“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

• Great Lakes Energy’s initial storm rebuilding and recovery cost was about $155 million, or 40 times its annual storm budget.

This effort shows what makes electric cooperatives unique.

Working through MECA and NRECA, Michigan’s co-ops speak with one strong, unified voice representing rural homes, farms, and businesses across the state and nation.

These figures reflect 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.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

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‘Tis the Season to Save Are new appliances on your holiday wish list? Choose efficient ENERGY STAR® models and celebrate savings!

On top of holiday retail sales, PIE&G residential electric members can take advantage of rebates from the Energy Optimization program. From refrigerators to air purifiers, you can earn cash back for the purchase of qualifying ENERGY STAR appliances. Plus, you’ll save on energy costs in the new year—and for years to come—with more efficient equipment. Visit pieg.com/eo to apply online or by mail.

In addition to new appliances, there are simple ways you can save energy and money while celebrating the holidays at home (source: energy.gov): • Switch to efficient LED holiday lights.

• Perform or schedule routine maintenance for your heating system.

• Use a smart thermostat to set back the temperature when you’re celebrating away from home.

• Keep the fireplace damper closed unless a cozy fire is burning.

• Open curtains on south-facing windows to take advantage of daytime sun for light and heat.

• Find and seal air leaks around doors, windows, recessed lights, fireplaces, and other drafty places.

Home Appliances

Incentive

Portable Room Dehumidifier

$30

Room Air Conditioner

$30

Room Air Purifier

$50

Clothes Washer

$40

Clothes Dryer: Standard

$40

Clothes Dryer: Heat Pump

$200

Refrigerator

$50

Chest or Upright Freezer

$40

Energy Star qualified. Limit 4.

Energy Star qualified. Limit 4.

Energy Star qualified. Limit 1.

Energy Star qualified. Limit 1.

Energy Star qualified. Electric dryer w/ moisture sensor. Limit 1.

Energy Star qualified heat pump dryer. Limit 1.

Energy Star qualified. Minimum 10 cu. ft. capacity. Limit 1.

Energy Star qualified. Limit 1.

Induction Range/Stove

Induction range, stove, or cooktop with a minimum of 3 burners.

Electric only. Limit 1.

$500

Visit pieg.com/eo to find all rebate details, applications, and more ways to save through the PIE&G Energy Optimization program or call (877) 296-4319 with questions.

ENERGY STAR® Appliances Offer the Gift of Savings Save now with rebates from PIE&G’s Energy Optimization program and save for years to come with reduced energy costs. pieg.com/eo • (877) 296-4319

Presque Isle Energy Optimization programs and rebates are applicable to Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op electric service locations only. Rebate applies to qualified items purchased and installed between Jan. 1, 2025, and Dec. 31, 2025. Other restrictions may apply. For complete program details, visit pieg.com/eo.

MI CO-OP Photo Contest

PET PERSONALITIES MOST VOTES

1. MOST VOTES I’ll have that treat, thank you very much.

Shelby Bauer 2. Ziggy Stardust enjoying his night view. Pamela Teachout 3. Is it pumpkin season already?

Carolyn Gier

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4. Logging in for my morning zoomies! Alexandra StapletonPaluch 5. And they call it puppy love!

(Nellie). Julie Stacks 6. Rainy day. Kathy Spray 7. Gizmo is pretty vocal about being excited for fall.

Zoie Jones 8. Cooper and Charlie nap time.

Marianne Hunsinger 9. First Mate Shadow keeping watch. Timothy Mayer 10. Freedom! Nikki Tackaberry

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Enter to win a $50 energy bill credit!

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Submit your Favorite Hobby photos by Nov. 25 for the February issue! Submit your best photo and encourage others to vote! The photo receiving the most votes in our photo contest will be printed in an issue of Country Lines, along with some of our other favorites.

To enter the contest, visit pieg.com/photocontest. Enter your picture, cast your vote, and encourage others to vote for you as well. If your photo is printed in Country Lines during 2026, you will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win one of four $50 credits on your January 2027 bill.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

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MI CO-OP Kitchen

HOLIDAY MAINS The Heart of the Holiday Table

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

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.

10 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025

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 finished 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 fillet (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 fit 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 flat surface. Spread the filling 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 flour 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 flour, 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.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 11

Making a Difference Together A Report on the Communities First Fund’s Initiatives

2024 PIE&G Communities First Fund Awards:

$40,290.56

Thanks to the generosity of our Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op members, the PIE&G Community Fund (CFF) continues to make a real difference for individuals and organizations across Northeast Michigan.

The fund is managed by an independent, all-volunteer board and is supported by members who choose to round up their energy bill to the next whole dollar. For those who participate, this averages just 50 cents per month—but together, these small contributions create a BIG impact in our communities.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to every member who has joined this effort. Your support truly embodies the cooperative spirit and helps neighbors in need.

If you aren’t already enrolled, we encourage you to consider this simple but powerful way to give back. Together, we can continue to strengthen our communities. The enrollment form can be found on page 13.

2024 Communities First Fund Grant Summary

High School Scholarship Recipients

New Beginnings Ministries

Mallory Donajkowski

$1,000.00

Katelyn Bielas

$1,000.00

Trenton Taratuta

$1,000.00

Cassidy Benac

$1,000.00

Hailey Lucas

$1,000.00

John Romel

$1,000.00

Logan Detolff

$1,000.00

Connor Stempky

$1,000.00

Kameran Pault

$1,000.00

Joselyn Hincka

$1,000.00

Autumn Kazaka

$1,000.00

Hanna Hinman

$1,000.00

Mia Couture

$1,000.00

Nichole Barbeau

$1,000.00

Elizabeth Vanfleet

$1,000.00

Wyatt Sobey

$500.00

Matthew Daniels

$500.00

Morgan Arbour

$1,000.00

Evan Themel

$1,000.00

Food for Foodband

Friends of Plaza Pool

Life jackets for kids 2024

The Stone House Studio

Murals on Main Rogers City

Onaway United Methodist Church AED

Heroes

Events for the special needs community

Posen Area Fire & Rescue Search & rescue drone

Presque Isle County Historical Museum

Bradley House roof replacement

New Life Lutheran Church

Sewing circle

Friends of the Hubbard Lake Center AED

Vienna Township Fire Dept.

Replacement of failed cistern pump

12 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025

$5,000.00 $350.00 $1,000.00 $2,017.99 $500.00 $2,500.00 $4,000.00 $700.00 $1,795.89 $4,426.68

PIE&G Communities First Fund Statements of Financial Position: Dec. 31, 2023, and 2024 ASSETS

2024

2023

CURRENT ASSETS: Cash

$

Cash – restricted

$

3,000

Accounts receivable TOTAL ASSETS

121,321

112,514 3,000

4,469

3,384

$

128,790

$

118,898

$

96,149

$

79,784

NET ASSETS Unrestricted Unrestricted, designated

29,641

36,114

Permanently restricted

3,000

3,000

TOTAL NET ASSETS

128,790

118,898

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS

$

128,790

$

118,898

$

49,936

$

43,345

ACTIVITIES AND CHANGE IN NET ASSETS REVENUE Contributions – members Contributions – PIE&G

18,479

15,337

Scholarship contributions

2,000

–

Interest

111

TOTAL REVENUE

113

$

70,525

$

58,795

$

31,991

$

23,353

EXPENSES Grants Scholarships

10,164

14,000

Professional fees

4,400

3,200

Program expense

12,972

11,048

Directors’ expense

1,106

1,089

TOTAL EXPENSE

60,633

52,690

CHANGE IN NET ASSETS

9,892

6,105

NET ASSETS, beginning of year NET ASSETS, end of year

HOW CAN I HELP MY COMMUNITY? The PIE&G Communities First Fund was created in 1998. Funds for this program are generated when PIE&G members volunteer to “round up” their utility bills to the next whole dollar. The average contribution is about 50 cents per month per meter.

All contributions are tax-deductible.

Please call our Member Services Department at 800-423-6634 to join.

You may also mail the completed enrollment form on this page with your utility payment or find the form at pieg.com/communities-first.

118,898 $

128,790

112,793 $

118,898

Enroll To Help Your Community!

Yes!

I want to participate in the COMMUNITIES FIRST FUND. Please enroll me and round up my bill to the next highest dollar each month.

Name (please print) Account Number(s) Mailing Address

Signature Date Include this coupon in your next bill payment, or mail to: PIE&G COMMUNITIES FIRST FUND, P.O. Box 308, Onaway, MI 49765

Harvesting a

Dream

Korson’s Tree Farms Heads to the White House

By Emily Haines Lloyd Photos by Cory Smith, DN Photo

F

or 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

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.

14 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025

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 find, 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 reflects 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

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.

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.

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.

come easily. The family has entered the national competition six times before finally taking home the Grand Champion title.

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.

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.”

“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.”

A Win for Michigan, a Win for Farmers

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

When news broke that Korson’s Tree Farms had finally 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 finish 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.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 15

Balancing Reliability and Inflation to Protect our Future If 2025 has taught us anything, it’s that reliability and preparedness remain essential to our cooperative utility. Our members have made clear that the ability to withstand and recover from storms must remain a top priority. At PIE&G, we’ve carefully analyzed our response to the spring ice storm and other recent outage events to determine where to invest in our system to prevent outages and how to best restructure our outage response to reduce downtime when they occur. This includes improving our right-of-way clearing processes, enhancing grid monitoring capabilities, and identifying ways to better engineer the electric grid for future stability.

The challenge is that these needed investments in reliability come at a time when the cost of maintaining our infrastructure and keeping your lights on continues to rise. Just as rising costs are hitting your own households, unrelenting inflation is increasing our cost of doing business along with supply chain issues to secure critical materials and equipment.

For example, the price we pay for lines, poles, transformers, and other materials has increased 50% in the past five years alone. As a responsible employer, we also ensure wages keep pace with the cost of living, while contending with higher borrowing costs due to rising interest rates.

This combination—rising costs and the need for system improvements— means our board of directors has reviewed a long-term forecast and approved a phased rate adjustment. The rate increase will occur in two steps: February 2026 and February 2027. This approach balances two goals: continuing to invest in the reliability you expect while keeping bills as low as possible.

How do PIE&G rates compare across Northern Michigan?

Balancing reliability and affordability is a challenge for every utility. As a rural cooperative, PIE&G serves an average of just seven members per mile of line, compared to hundreds or even thousands of customers for urban utilities. That means we spread infrastructure costs across fewer customers. Despite this, we continue to keep our cost per kilowatt-hour in line with other local providers in Northern Michigan.

How will the rate increase impact my energy bill?

• February 2026: Residential bills rise by $0.02159 per kilowatt-hour.

• February 2027: An additional increase of $0.02160 per kilowatt-hour takes effect for Residential customers.

ELECTRIC RATE ADJUSTMENT PHASE 1

EFFECTIVE DATE FEB. 1, 2026

PHASE 2

EFFECTIVE DATE FEB. 1, 2027

Increase to Base Fee $/Month

Increase to Distribution Charge $/kWh

Increase to Base Fee $/Month

Increase to Distribution Charge $/kWh

Monthly Residential

$0.00

$0.02159

$0.00

$0.02160

Seasonal Residential

$9.80

$0.00000

$9.80

$0.00000

General Service (1 phase)

$0.00

$0.01585

$0.00

$0.01584

General Service (3 phase)

$0.00

$0.01585

$0.00

$0.01584

Large General Service

$0.00

$0.01105

$0.00

$0.01106

Large Power Time of Day

$0.00

$0.03177

$0.00

$0.03176

RATE CLASS

Primary Service

$0.00640

$0.00641

Outdoor Lighting — Monthly Charge 40W LED T5

$3.30

$3.31

70W LED T3/T5

$4.20

$4.20

16 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025

CO-OP NEWS Your Board in Action • • • • •

Approved Resolution 2025-20 2026 Natural Gas Service Fees Approved Resolution 2025-21 Bank Signatory Approved Resolution 2025-22 EO/EWR Program Reviewed Community Donation Grants Applicants Approved Team Reports

FUEL MIX REPORT

The fuel mix characteristics of Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op as required by Public Act 141 of 2000 for the 12-month period ended 06/30/2025.

COMPARISON OF FUEL SOURCES USED Fuel source

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

Coal

17.112%

24.145%

Oil

0.266%

0.442%

Director Election Results Notice

Gas

24.182%

38.770%

Due to our early printing schedule for the Michigan Country Lines magazine, the Annual Meeting director election results will be included in our December Spotlight, online at pieg.com, and in the January edition of Michigan Country Lines.

Hydroelectric

0.398%

0.591%

Nuclear

40.360%

24.869%

Renewable Fuels

17.682%

11.183%

Biofuel

0.391%

0.673%

Biomass

0.151%

0.306%

Solar

1.710%

1.878%

Solid Waste Incineration

0.129%

0.138%

Wind

15.122%

7.863%

Wood

0.179%

0.325%

Cashless Collections Notice Beginning Jan. 1, 2026, we will no longer accept cash payments in the field.

Field representatives will still be able to accept payment by check or money order in the field.

You may also pay online at pieg.com, by phone at 1-855-939-3541, by mail, or in person at our office.

NOTE: Biomass excludes wood; solid waste incineration includes landfill gas; and wind includes a long-term renewable purchase power contract in Wolverine’s mix.

Energy Optimization & Energy Waste Reduction Charges: Residential/Special Heating/Outdoor lighting Schedules: • Schedules A, S, CH, & EEH remain at $0.00229 per kWh • Schedule OL remains at $0.00312 per kWh

YOUR CO-OP’S FUEL MIX

Commercial/Industrial Schedules: • Schedule GS remains at $3.10/month • Schedules LG & LPTOD remain at $74.14 per month • Schedule PSDS remains at $400.99/month

Notice to Members of the Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op

REGIONAL AVERAGE FUEL MIX

Electric Tariff Changes

The Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op Board of Directors adopted the following changes to the cooperative’s electric tariffs and billing practices at its Special Open Member Regulation Meeting held on Sept. 23, 2025, in accordance with P.A. 167: •

Approved and set the 2026 Power Supply Cost Recovery (PSCR) factor to a maximum of $0.01813/kWh for bills rendered on or after Feb. 1, 2026.

•

Approved an increase in electric rates to be allocated among all rate classes.

The increase will be implemented in two phases with Phase 1 being effective for bills rendered on or after Feb. 1, 2026, and Phase 2 being effective with bills rendered on or after Feb. 1, 2027.

•

Established a new Energy Optimization & Energy Waste Reduction Program that replaces the prior Energy Optimization program with no increase in rates.

•

Bundled Energy Charge: The cooperative will explore implementing a simplified, bundled rate for energy supply and distribution charges. This change aims to make member bills clearer and easier to understand while ensuring that costs are fairly recovered.

Notices of changes or additions to the cooperative’s rates or service rules shall be sent to all members, as required by P.A. 167, by first-class mail or by publication in Michigan Country Lines at least 30 days prior to their effective date.

For specific details of any Presque Isle Electric & Gas co-op tariffs or fees, please call 1-800-423-6634 or visit our website at pieg.com.

EMISSIONS AND WASTE COMPARISON lbs/MWh Type of emission/waste

Your co-op

Regional average*

Sulfur Dioxide

0.52

0.85

Carbon Dioxide

683.5

1,060.2

Oxides of Nitrogen

0.41

0.70

High-Level Nuclear Waste

0.0097

0.0060

* Regional average information was obtained from the MPSC website and is for the 12-month period ending 12/31/24.

Presque Isle Electric & Gas purchases 100% of its electricity from Wolverine Power Supply Cooperative, Inc., which provided this fuel mix and environmental data.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 17

‘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 fine-art prints are available online— perfect gifts for bird and nature lovers alike.

Where In Michigan Is This?

Recipes worth giving.

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.

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.

18 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025

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 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.

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How will you

MAKE YOUR MARK? 2026 Dates Announced Soon!

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, 2026.

•

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 your Michigan electric cooperative.

You and your parents or guardian must be served by Presque Isle Electric & Gas Cooperative.

•

Be the first to know when applications are open: Scan the QR code below or visit cooperativeyouthtour.com!

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

MAKE MARK! YOUR