Not hearing is believing.
Many homeowners have come to accept that a noisy A/C is a fact of life. But with WaterFurnace, you don’t have to settle.
Nothing can disrupt a perfect summer afternoon in your backyard more than a loud air conditioner. Geothermal users are never disturbed from outside HVAC noise because there’s no outdoor equipment to make any. All the complicated work takes place underground—out of earshot. With WaterFurnace, your peace and quiet is assured. To learn more, contact your local WaterFurnace dealer today.
Geothermal is the only renewable that provides reliable operation 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
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
Clifford Orton Refrig & Htg (989)761-7691 sanduskygeothermal.com
Filion/Bad Axe Air-O-Dynamic Htg. & Clg. (989)582-0137
Hart Adams Htg & Clg (231)873-2665 adamsheating cooling.com
Indian River M&M Plmb & Htg (231)238-7201 mm-plumbing.com
Lansing Candor Mechanical (517) 920-0890 candormechanical.com
Lowell Arctic Inc. Htg. & Clg. (616) 897-4213 heatingcoolingonline.com
Manistique Hoholik Enterprises (906) 341-5065 hoholikenterprises.com
Marinette, WI
GPS Htg. & Clg (715) 732-2111 gpsheatingcooling.com
Michigan Center Comfort 1/Air Serv of Southern Michigan (517) 764-1500 airserv.com/southernmichigan/
Mt Pleasant
Walton Htg & Clg (989)772-4822 waltonheating.com
Muskegon Adams Htg & Clg (231)873-2665 adamsheatingcooling.com
Negaunee J-Goods Plmb. & Htg. (906)869-2522 jgoodsplumbingand heating.com
Portland ESI Htg & Clg (517)647-6906 esiheating.com
Sunfield Mark Woodman Plmb & Htg (517)886-1138 mwphonline.com
Traverse City
D&W Mechanical (231)941-1251 dwmechanical.com
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
Michigan’s Electric Cooperatives
XECUTIVE 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: Tom Sobeck, Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op, chairman; Gabe Schneider, Cherryland Electric Cooperative, vice chairman; Chris O’Neill, HomeWorks TriCounty Cooperative, secretary-treasurer; Craig Borr, 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.
6
10 14
6 PIONEERING ELECTRIC OFF-ROAD INNOVATION
New Upper Peninsula EV trail brings together nature, sightseeing, and sustainable adventure.
10 MI CO-OP KITCHEN
Casseroles: Comforting meals the whole family will love.
14 BEE-HIND THE SCENES AT HILBERT’S HONEY CO.
Industrious beekeepers nurture thriving family business.
18 GUEST
COLUMN
The Ford Confusion: How an MEC member met a U.S. first lady—without realizing it.
MI Co-op Community
To enter contests, submit reader content & more, visit countrylines.com/community
Recipe Contest
See details on page 10. Soups & Stews due Nov. 1 and Sauces & Marinades due Dec. 1. Win a $100 bill credit!
Guest Column
Share your fondest memories and stories. Win $200 for stories published. Visit countrylines.com/community to submit. Win $200 for stories published!
Mystery Photo
See details on page 18. Win a $100 bill credit!
/homeworks.org
homeworks.org tricoenergy@homeworks.org
Portland office/Mail payments to: 7973 E. Grand River Ave. Portland, MI 48875
Open 8 a.m.–4 p.m. Monday–Friday Blanchard office: 3681 Costabella Ave. Blanchard, MI 49310
Open 8 a.m.–4 p.m. Monday–Friday Night deposit box available at both locations.
Electric bill/account questions: 517-647-7554 or 1-800-562-8232
Pay by phone, anytime: 1-844-963-2875
Service questions/outages: 517-647-7554 or 1-800-848-9333 (24 hours for emergency calls)
Tri-County Propane: 1-877-574-2740
HomeWorks Connect 1-800-668-8413
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
District 1 — John Lord, Vice-Chairman 2276 Plains Rd., Leslie, MI 49251 517-974-2518 • jlord@homeworks.org
District 2 — Jim Stebbins
7139 Peddler Lake Rd., Clarksville, MI 48815 517-930-8132 • jstebbins@homeworks.org
District 3 — Luke Pohl, Chairman 15560 W. Hanses Rd., Westphalia, MI 48894 989-292-0427 • lpohl@homeworks.org
District 4 — Jake Borton 7543 E. Edgar Rd., Vestaburg, MI 48891 989-506-3404 • jborton@homeworks.org
District 5 — Theresa Sopocy 6996 E. Wilson Rd., Bannister, MI 48807 989-292-0295 • tsopocy@homeworks.org
District 6 — Dave Livermore 8060 W. Airline Rd., Weidman, MI 48893 989-289-3019 • dlivermore@homeworks.org
District 7 — Shirley Sprague, Secretary-Treasurer 15563 45th Ave., Barryton, MI 49305 989-382-7535 • ssprague@homeworks.org
Editor: Charly Markwart, CCC cmarkwart@homeworks.org
AUnderstanding The Factors That Play Into Our Energy Costs
By Chris O’Neill, President/CEO
s a member of HomeWorks, you probably know that we are a not-forprofit electric cooperative owned by you and your neighbors who receive our electric service. We don’t have investors, and any margins we earn are eventually returned to you in the form of capital credits. Since our business model is not based on profit, we are able to charge you electric rates that are solely based on the cost of providing service to you. As a HomeWorks member myself, it’s reassuring to me to know that my electric rates won’t go up simply to meet investor demands or to fulfill an arbitrary profit target.
Still, in order to maintain a financially stable and healthy cooperative, we do have to adequately cover our costs. Just like our margins are allocated back to our members based on their patronage, our cost of service is shared evenly by our members, as well. As a member-owner with a vested financial interest in your Cooperative, I think it’s important that you understand the factors that affect your energy costs. Four of the main factors impacting your monthly electric bill are:
• Fuel Costs: When the costs of the fuels used to generate electricity go up or down, our power costs fluctuate, as well. As you are probably well aware, fuel costs have been volatile over the past few years. Our power supplier, Wolverine Power Cooperative, works hard for us to minimize this impact as much as possible by maintaining a diverse fuel mix, but volatility in the fuel market can still significantly affect our costs.
• Operations, Equipment, and Labor Costs: The expenses of the day-to-day operations to run your Co-op and the pricing for the equipment, materials, and contractors needed to maintain our electric system can fluctuate, too. Like most things in today’s economy, persistent inflationary pressures have caused these prices to continually increase over the past several years. These are the types of costs that go into the fixed availability charge on your electric bill, which covers the funds we must invest to build, maintain, and operate an electric distribution system to deliver electricity to your home, before you even flip on the switch.
• Weather: It’s easy to understand how weather plays a major role in our energy costs. Extreme temperatures increase the demand for cooling or heating, and this puts pressure on fuel sources and prices. On the other hand, the kind of mild weather we have experienced the past two years can result in lower electric usage than expected, which means less operating revenues for the Co-op. It is a delicate balance that is highly impacted by Mother Nature.
• Energy Use: This one is obvious: The more electricity you use, the higher your energy bill. This is why you might see your electric bill noticeably increase during the coldest months of winter and the hottest months of summer. If you would prefer to pay the same amount every month, we do offer a budget billing option; call us at 800-562-8232 to learn more.
We can’t control the weather, and although we do everything we can to keep our expenses as low as possible, the inflationary fluctuations in the external prices that factor into our cost of service are largely beyond our control, as well. We can and we will, however, continue to work diligently, efficiently, and cost effectively to provide reliable electricity that remains a good value for our members, now and into the future. That’s the Cooperative way.
THE POWER GRID MUST ADAPT
To Support A Clean Energy Future
power plant generates electricity
THIS IS HOW ELECTRICITY GETS TO YOUR HOME
transmission lines carry electricity long distances
transformer steps up voltage for transmission
distribution lines carry electricity to houses
neighborhood transformer steps down voltage
transformers on poles step down electricity before it enters your home
So, how do we prepare the grid to integrate large-scale renewable energy and ensure reliable electricity to your home?
WE NEED STORAGE
We could store traditional fossil fuels. Obviously, we can't store weather, but what about electricity?
The grid operates in real time
The power grid operates in real time, supplying more electricity when demand surges and scaling back when demand decreases.
Renewable energy is intermittent
Renewable energy sources depend on weather conditions. Can we store it? Not effectively with today's technology.
Storage technology must improve
Present state-of-the-art battery technology lasts only two hours. We need storage technology to evolve before renewables can provide reliable electricity to all.
WE NEED MORE TRANSMISSION LINES
We used to move fuel to plants. Now we need to move plants to the weather—and build lines to carry the energy to end-consumers.
PRESENT
Most electricity today doesn’t travel very far because, historically, power plants were built close to cities with high electricity demand.
FUTURE
Electricity will need to travel farther because clean energy sources are often situated in remote locations, like wind in the plains and sun in the southwest. We need to build more transmission lines to transport clean energy farther to homes and businesses.
Did you know?
By the 2030s, we need to build so many new transmission lines that, if strung end to end, they would reach the moon!
So, what do we do right now?
We are collaborating with our power supplier, statewide association, and fellow electric cooperatives in Michigan to advance innovative ideas. One of those ideas is to install a safe underwater transmission line connecting Michigan to Wisconsin. Think of it as a regional superhighway delivering reliable, clean, affordable, and controllable energy to the entire upper Midwest. Learn more at wolverinepowercooperative.com/lake-michigan-connector.
Source: https://www.gatesnotes.com/Transmission
Nature and Technology in Harmony
This first-of-its-kind trail system offers a unique way to traverse the UP wilderness, guiding you through winding wooded trails, past breathtaking waterfalls, and into the heart of the Porcupine Mountains. The zero-emissions electric ORVs take the adventure to another level, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the sounds, sights, and smells of nature without the noise of traditional engines.
Sun-Powered Fun
The trail features four solar-powered charging stations along a scenic 95-mile loop. These stations are strategically placed near towns, allowing you to explore local attractions and eateries while your vehicle recharges. Here’s a glimpse into each location:
• Ontonagon: The northernmost charging station is in downtown Ontonagon on US-45. This charming town offers dining, shopping, and picturesque streets. For a taste of the UP’s best pasties, Syl’s Cafe is a mustvisit. At Hamilton’s North Coast Adventures, you can rent a new Polaris RANGER XP ORV and join their self-guided EV off-road tour. Accommodations, including campsites and cottages, are available.
Nature, Sightseeing, and
Sustainable Adventure
A New Upper Peninsula EV Trail Brings Together
s a rider, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of exploring Michigan’s Western Upper Peninsula on a groundbreaking electric vehicle (EV) trail. Launched in June, this innovative trail system is a result of the collaboration between Polaris Inc. and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), introducing an electric off-road vehicle (ORV) charging network in Ontonagon County. This marks the dawn of a new era in ecofriendly exploration.
• Greenland: Located at the Adventure Mining Company, this station offers a historic copper mine tour with three types of underground experiences. You’ll be transported by a historic Swiss military vehicle through steep hills to the mine entrance. Inside, your hard hat’s light will reveal sparkling copper veins in the rocky walls. The Prospector’s Tour, suitable for all ages, is a 90-minute journey requiring less than a mile of walking.
• White Pine: Near the entrance of Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, this station is just 14 miles from the mesmerizing Lake of the Clouds. Nearby, the Konteka Black Bear Resort offers dining, bowling, and the chance to view wild bears.
• Bergland: The southernmost station is in Bergland, located along M-28 on the north shore of Lake Gogebic, the largest natural inland lake in the UP. While charging, you can cross the street to Antonio’s Restaurant & Pizzeria for ice cream and hearty American classics.
Partners and Funding
The development of this innovative infrastructure was made possible by a $700,000 Mobility Public-Private Partnership & Programming (MP4)
Grant from the Michigan Office of Future Mobility and Electrification. This grant program aims to position Michigan as a leader in outdoor recreation innovation, vehicle technology, and sustainability.
Charlie Tyson, MEDC Technology Activation Manager, stated, “Supporting innovative companies such as Polaris that modernize and enhance outdoor recreation vehicles and experiences is an important investment in our state’s economic growth and the preservation and enjoyment of our natural landscapes. This program will help to ensure a sustainable future for our state’s outdoor recreation industry.”
Polaris EVs are available to rent at Hamilton’s North Coast Adventure Campground & Rentals, 906-884-3005, hamiltonsnorthcoast.com
Exploring Michigan’s Upper Peninsula on an electric ORV trail is not just an adventure—it’s a step into the future of sustainable outdoor recreation. Whether you’re navigating through the woods, visiting historical sites, or simply soaking in the stunning landscapes, this trail system offers an unparalleled experience for every rider. Scan the QR code to watch a video of Cassondra’s adventure on an EV.
Cassondra Scott is a content creator, writer, and social media influencer at Cassondra Wanders——sharing small businesses and sights to see all over the state of Michigan.
Energy Tips For Back-To-School Season
ack-to-school season is here, which likely means a shift in your family’s routine. Did you know that you can leverage that shift to waste less energy and save money? HomeWorks’ Energy Optimization program is here to help—read on for back-to-school savings tips for your household.
1. Turn off the lights. Take advantage of periods when fewer (or even no) people are in the house. Plus, enjoy natural light while the season allows.
2. Use your smaller appliances (and less energy) for cooking. A microwave offers quick heating or reheating of food on busy school days.
3. Open your refrigerator less frequently. Teach kids to choose their after-school snack with the refrigerator door closed. $50 Rebate Available for Qualifying ENERGY STAR® Refrigerators
4. Use your Wi-Fi-enabled thermostat to save on heating or cooling. Raise or lower the temperature a few degrees based on the occupancy schedule for your home. $50 Rebate Available for Qualifying Wi-Fienabled Thermostats
5. Add extra savings on top of back-to-school appliance sales with rebates from the Energy Optimization program. Get cash back with your purchase of qualifying new efficient appliances!
Find details on appliance rebates and more ways to save with the HomeWorks Energy Optimization program at homeworks.org/eo or call 877-296-4319 to get started!
Enter to win a $100 energy bill credit!
Submit Your “Wreaths” Photos By Sept. 25!
Each month, HomeWorks members are able to submit photos on our website for our photo contest. The photo receiving the most votes is published here, along with some other selections from that month. Our September theme is Wreaths. Photos can be submitted through Sept. 25 to be featured in our Nov./Dec. issue.
To enter the contest, visit HomeWorks.org/ photocontest. Enter your picture, cast your vote, and encourage others to vote for you, too. If your photo is published in Country Lines during 2024, you will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win one of four $100 credits on your December 2024 HomeWorks bill!
MOST VOTES
1. My favorite summer quilt: “Tilda’s Swim Team.” Glenda Adams, Evart
2. “You Are Tomorrow! You Are the Navy!” This quilt was created for my son when he entered the Navy in 2021 and is still on his rack (bed) today. Kimberly Morden, Weidman
3. 3D star box. Cathy Vandermolen, Eaton Rapids
4. Granddaughter’s graduation present. Suzie Schafer, Pewamo
5. Canadian Lakes Quilt Club Show. Linda Robinson-Moore, Canadian Lakes
6. My mom, Patricia Prell, sewed this dinosaur quilt for my son. Pattern is Dinosaurs by Elizabeth Hartman. Rose Kipfmiller, Weidman
7. My late Grandma Hoppes made this pretty quilt with her quilting club ladies and proudly displayed it on her bed and used it each night. Casie Bayless, Portland
8. Michigan. Beth Feiten, Chippewa Lake
9. My mother-in-law gifted me a beautiful quilt in my favorite color, red. Debra Cook, Mt. Pleasant
10. Made in Hawaii. Susan Malzahn, Stanwood
CASSEROLES
Comforting meals the whole family will love.
Recipe Contest
Win a $100 energy bill credit!
Soups & Stews due Nov. 1; Sauces & Marinades due Dec. 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!
HEAVENLY CHICKEN
CASSEROLE
Janet Cather, Midwest Energy & Communications
1 tablespoon olive oil
3–4 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced in half, vertically)
¼ –½ teaspoon salt
¼ –½ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon cornstarch
¾ cup chicken broth, divided
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh)
¼ –½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
½ cup heavy cream
½ cup chopped sundried tomatoes
¼ –½ cup freshly grated Asiago cheese
1 teaspoon dried basil flakes
Preheat oven to 375 F. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and season generously with salt/pepper. Sear the chicken on each side for 4–5 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a casserole dish sprayed with oil. In a small container, add the cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of chicken broth; shake to combine. Return the skillet to medium heat. Add a bit of oil if needed. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring. Add the thyme, red pepper flakes, remaining chicken broth, cornstarch/ chicken broth mixture, and heavy cream. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring often. Stir in the sundried tomatoes and Asiago cheese. Spoon the sauce over the chicken in the casserole dish. Sprinkle with basil flakes. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the chicken is no longer pink. Let set for 5 minutes before serving.
Watch a video of this month’s winning recipe at micoopkitchen.com/recipe_ type/videos/
PASTRY-FREE SPANAKOPITA QUICHE
Emily Binard, Great Lakes Energy
2–3 tablespoons vegetable oil, or vegetable oil spray
2 cups (32 ounces) shredded hash brown potatoes, thawed
½ teaspoon salt, divided
½ teaspoon black pepper, divided
6 large eggs
½ –¾ cup heavy cream
½ cup diced red onion
¾ cup chopped spinach (if frozen, drain as much water out as possible)
1 cup crumbled feta cheese
½ cup white wine vinegar, divided
Preheat oven to 375 F. On a stovetop, add a 12-inch oven-safe frying pan and coat with oil. Bring to medium heat. Add the shredded potatoes and press them in an even layer across the bottom of the pan and up around the
side edges. Sprinkle with ¼ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Keep over medium to medium-low heat until the edges just start to brown. While the potatoes cook, crack the eggs into a large mixing bowl and add the heavy cream. Beat until smooth. Add the onion, spinach, remaining ¼ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, and feta cheese, along with ¼ cup of the vinegar. Mix until thoroughly combined. When the potatoes are ready, starting to brown at the edges, pour the egg mixture over the potatoes to fill the pan. Transfer the skillet into the oven and bake for 25–35 minutes, until the top is browned and the eggs are fully set. Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup vinegar over the top before serving. Enjoy!
CHICKEN BROCCOLI RICE CASSEROLE
Mary England, HomeWorks Tri-County
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
8 ounces fresh mushrooms, sliced
3 tablespoons flour
1 cup chicken broth
½ teaspoon poultry seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
½ cup mayonnaise
2 heads (about 4 cups) broccoli, steamed and cooled (can also use frozen, thawed)
2 cups cooked, chopped chicken
1 (5.6-ounce) package chickenflavored rice mix, prepared per package directions
1 (8-ounce) block sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, divided
½ cup Italian-flavored breadcrumbs for topping
Preheat oven to 350 F. In a large skillet, add the olive oil over medium heat; sauté the onion until tender. Add the mushrooms and cook until just lightly browned. Sprinkle with flour and cook 1–2 minutes, stirring. Add the chicken broth, poultry seasoning, salt, and black pepper; simmer 2 minutes. Add the Greek yogurt (or sour cream) and mayonnaise; stir until well combined. Add the broccoli and chicken; cook 2–3 minutes. Grease a 9x13 casserole dish. Add prepared rice to the casserole dish. Spread evenly, then cover with half of the grated cheese. Pour the broccoli/ chicken mixture over the rice. Spread evenly and cover with remaining half of cheese. Sprinkle with breadcrumbs. Bake for 25–30 minutes, until the mixture is bubbly and the top is lightly browned. Let stand 10 minutes, then serve. Enjoy!
EASY PIZZA CASSEROLE
Madalyn Crawford, Great Lakes Energy
1 (1-pound box) penne pasta (any kind works; this is our fave!)
3 cups pasta sauce
3 cups water
1 cup pepperoni
2½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Optional: any other favorite pizza toppings of choice
Preheat oven to 350 F. Dump box of pasta into a 9x13 casserole dish. Add the pasta sauce and water and mix all ingredients together in the casserole dish. Layer the pepperoni and any other toppings of choice on top of the pasta/ sauce mixture. Cover and bake for 25 minutes. Uncover and add mozzarella cheese to the top and more toppings if desired. Put back in oven, uncovered, for 10 to 15 minutes or until cheese is melted. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notice to Members of HomeWorks Tri-County Cooperative Case No. U-16598: 2023 Renewable Energy Plan Annual Report Summary
Michigan law requires all Michigan electric utilities to get at least 15% of their power supply from renewable sources during 2023.
Under this requirement, HomeWorks Tri-County Energy Cooperative submits an annual report to the MPSC regarding its Renewable Energy Plan. In 2023, HomeWorks acquired a total of 55,665 renewable energy credits. All credit transfers were directed through HomeWorks’ wholesale power supplier, Wolverine Power Supply Cooperative, Inc. Wolverine will continue to generate renewable energy and bank unused renewable energy credits for future use and compliance with statutory renewable portfolio standard requirements on behalf of all of its members.
A full copy of the Cooperative’s Renewable Energy Plan annual report that was filed with the MPSC is available on the Co-op’s website at www.homeworks.org or by request at either of the Co-op’s offices.
Notice to Members of HomeWorks Tri-County Electric Cooperative
June 24, 2024, Open Member Meeting Results
The HomeWorks Tri-County Electric Cooperative Board of Directors, at a special open meeting held June 24, 2024, in accordance with P.A. 167 and P.A. 95, unanimously elected for the Co-op to participate in the state of Michigan’s Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program for the 2024-25 heating season.
For specific details of any HomeWorks tariffs or fees, please visit HomeWorks.org or call 800-562-8232.
Notice to Members of HomeWorks Tri-County Electric Cooperative A Special Member Meeting Is Set for Sept. 23, 9 a.m., at
the Cooperative’s Blanchard Office
The board of directors will consider the item(s) listed below at its meeting on Sept. 23, 2024, to be held at the Cooperative office at 3681 Costabella Ave., Blanchard, Michigan. The meeting will begin at 9 a.m. and is open to all HomeWorks Tri-County Electric Cooperative members.
The session will begin with an opportunity for members to provide direct input to the board of directors without filing a formal request under the Cooperative policy. Interested members are asked to come to the lobby by 9 a.m. and request to speak to the board; staff will direct members to the meeting room. Time constraints on each member’s comments will be at the discretion of the board president, but members are asked to keep comments to less than five minutes.
The following item(s) will be discussed and considered:
1. Establishing the Cooperative’s Power Supply Cost Recovery (PSCR) factor for 2025. The PSCR factor refers to the rate to be charged to reflect power supply costs incurred but not included in the base rate. The PSCR factor, to be applied to the Cooperative’s retail member-customers’ monthly kilowatt-hour use, represents the power supply costs established by the Cooperative in conjunction with Wolverine Power Cooperative. The factor is established annually and reviewed monthly.
2. Revising the Cooperative’s electric rates to meet current and future financial needs.
Notice 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 publication in Michigan Country Lines at least 30 days prior to their effective date.
Participation: Any interested member may attend and participate in the meeting. The location of the board meeting site is accessible, including accessible parking. Persons needing any accommodation to participate should contact HomeWorks TriCounty Electric at 800-562-8232 at least a week in advance of the meeting to request mobility, visual, hearing, or other assistance. Comments may also be made prior to the meeting date by calling CEO Chris O’Neill at 517-647-1284 or contacting him via email at coneill@homeworks.org.
Notice of the board meeting shall be sent to all members, as required by P.A. 167, by publication in Michigan Country Lines.
Your Board In Action
Meeting in Portland on June 24, your board of directors:
• In a special open member meeting, unanimously elected for the Cooperative to participate in the state of Michigan’s Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program for the 2024-25 heating season.
• Authorized management to increase the annual attachment rental fee charged to telecom and cable providers who attach their assets to HomeWorks utility poles to $17.75 per attachment.
• Completed an annual review of the Co-op’s loan portfolio.
• Learned there were 101 new members in May.
• Acknowledged the May safety report, listing employee training as well as minor employee and public incidents involving electric, propane, or fiber optic.
• Meeting in Portland on July 22, your board of directors:
• Unanimously voted to authorize the President/CEO to sign an agreement with a third-party vendor to provide meters, equipment, software, and support for a replacement Advanced Metering Infrastructure system for the Co-op.
• Reviewed a quarterly report on the Tri-County Electric People Fund, learning that year to date, the program has paid out 18 grants totaling $33,895.45 to organizations and families in need in the Co-op’s service territory.
• Reviewed a quarterly report on the Co-op’s Energy Optimization program, learning that participating members have saved 811,468 kWh and earned $160,156 in rebates year to date.
• Authorized the President/CEO the discretion to order a replacement bucket truck for the HomeWorks
Your Spare Change Adds Up To Help People Fund Grantees In Need
Meeting remotely on July 10, our People Fund board made four grants totaling $2,750, including:
• $1,000 to the Community Drawers project of Ionia, to assist with personal care needs for clients;
• $750 to Chippewa Lake Community Church, for their food pantry program;
• $500 to the Barryton Church of God, to support their back-toschool backpack program; and
• $500 to the Storehouse Emergency Food Pantry in Weidman, to help with the purchase of a new furnace.
How to Apply for a Tri-County Electric People Fund Grant
The Tri-County Electric People Fund provides grants to individuals and organizations in the Coop’s service area for food, shelter, clothing, health, and other humane needs, or for programs or services that benefit a significant segment of a community.
Write to 7973 E. Grand River Ave., Portland, MI 48875, for an application form and grant guidelines, or visit the People Fund page at HomeWorks.org.
Note: Applications must be received by Sept. 24 for the October meeting or by Nov. 5 for the November meeting.
Connect fiber internet business in order to maintain the current vehicle replacement schedule.
• Learned there were 96 new members in June.
• Acknowledged the June safety report, listing employee training as well as minor employee and public incidents involving electric, propane, or fiber optic.
Time Set Aside for Members to Comment Before
Cooperative Board Meetings
The first 15 minutes of every board meeting are available for members who wish to address the board of directors on any subject. The next meetings are scheduled for 9 a.m. on Sept. 23 at Blanchard and 9 a.m. on Oct. 28 at Portland. Members who wish to have items considered on the board agenda should call 517-647-7554 at least a week in advance of the meeting.
Cindy Kyser Joins People Fund Board
At their June 24 meeting, the Tri-County Electric Cooperative Board of Directors appointed Cindy Kyser of Weidman to fill the open District 6 seat on the volunteer board of the TriCounty Electric People Fund.
Bee-hind the Scenes at Hilbert’s Honey Co.
By Emily Haines Lloyd
If you’ve ever watched footage of a beehive on National Geographic or The Discovery Channel, you’ve seen the activity, coordination, and effort that goes into the production of honey.
That same level of commitment and industriousness of the bees can be seen in the owners of Hilbert’s Honey Co. in Traverse City, Michigan. For over 130 years, these Cherryland Electric Cooperative members have cultivated a tradition of hard work and community, spanning four generations.
Today, Larry and Geana Hilbert, along with their son Keith (a fifth-generation beekeeper) and his wife Michele, continue this legacy through Hilbert’s Honey Co., a thriving honey farm that parallels the dedicated and cooperative nature of the bees they care for.
The Hive Mentality
Much like the electric cooperative principles themselves, the success of the colony relies on teamwork and
community. The Hilbert family epitomizes this spirit in their beekeeping endeavors.
“The hive mentality is all about working together,” says owner Larry Hilbert. “You never quit. You constantly reinvent yourself; once you overcome one challenge, a new one arises.”
This collaboration moves beyond the farm and into various communities. With 7,700 hives spread across farms in northern Michigan, the generosity and understanding of local farmers is indispensable. This cooperation ensures the bees can pollinate effectively while landowners benefit from increased crop yields.
Challenges and Resilience
“Farming can be a difficult, unpredictable way of life,” reflects Larry. “You need to be resilient and ready to face whatever comes your way.”
Whatever comes your way can include weather, seasonal issues, and other environmental problems—it can also include less likely obstacles such as black bears who are
more than happy to lumber through the crates, tip over a hive, and raid it for its delicious nectar.
So, maybe not exactly like other farming.
The Role of Electricity
While the bees power the hives, electricity plays a vital role in the Hilberts’ operations. From the tools used for extracting honey to the warming tanks used for bottling, any power outage can significantly disrupt the work.
“We know people downstate who seem to have power outages frequently,” said Larry. “But, you know, I look over my lifetime on the farm and I can only remember a few. We take our reliable power for granted.”
Balancing Big Business and Small-Town Charm
What’s not taken for granted is the sincere obligation the Hilberts feel toward their bees and the important work they do for both our natural and economic worlds. According to the USDA, bees pollinate approximately 75% of the fruits, nuts, and vegetables grown in the United States and are responsible for more than $15 billion in increased crop value each year.
While Hilbert Honey Co. is only a small part of that big business, they feel the same pressures of other farmers and beekeepers. However, they insist that in the end—it’s worth it.
“The work itself helps evaporate the stress,” Geana Hilbert says. “Going outside and working all day in nature is breathtaking. It’s a lifestyle— a true labor of love.”
Looking ahead, the Hilberts are dedicated to promoting their products, urging customers to stop by their on-site store, and continuing to share their passion for beekeeping and the sweet rewards it brings.
In every jar of Hilbert honey, you’ll find not only the nuanced flavors of northern Michigan, but the essence of teamwork, resilience, and community—a testament to the hardworking bees and the family who cares for them.
“Going outside and working all day in nature is breathtaking. It’s a lifestyle—a true labor of love.”
New Plans to Better Fit Your Needs
As your trusted Cooperative, we know you rely on us to have your best interests in mind when it comes to the services that we provide to your home or business. That’s why we recently launched upgraded HomeWorks Connect package offerings to help you and your family experience an even better internet connection, while also helping us to adequately cover our increased costs of service so that we can continue to deliver the quality broadband you’ve come to expect from us.
Effective Aug. 1, we’ve introduced the streamlined menu of packages highlighted to the right. These offerings were designed to deliver more value to you—our members and valued internet subscribers. The upgraded plans offer significantly higher speeds that are better suited to meet the needs of today’s consumer. Plus, they all include valuable added features such as our TechShield digital storage and cybersecurity solution and our MyBundle streaming TV assistance service.
With these new plans, you can now get gigabit internet service for the reduced price of just under $100/month! Don’t need a gig? No problem! Our three upgraded package options offer something for everyone’s needs!
Plans Made for the Working Warrior
Essential Experience
A 250 Mbps Connection for Everyone
Includes:
• Reliable, locally maintained network
• Internet optimized for streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video
• 24/7 U.S.-based tech support team
• Personalized streaming service recommendations
• Cybersecurity suite for your devices
• 50 GB of Cloud storage for photos & files all for $64.95!*
The Reliable 500 Mbps Connection You Need Includes
• No data caps, plus symmetrical speeds for large file transfers
• Priority bandwidth for tools such as Zoom, Google Meet, and Microsoft Teams
• 24/7 U.S.-based tech support team
• In-home Wi-Fi network assessment for new installations
• Advanced email notices regarding scheduled maintenance so your work days are uninterrupted
• 50 GB of Cloud-based storage for files
• Password manager for extra security all for $89.95!*
Total Techie
The Network You’ve Been Waiting For Includes:
• No data caps, plus symmetrical speeds
• Direct data center peering with major game servers and streaming companies
• Gigabit bandwidth and low latency
• 24/7 U.S.-based tech support
• Local experts to ensure you get the best end user experience
• Top-rated cybersecurity suite for your devices
• 50 GB of Cloud-based storage all for $99.95!*
HomeWorks Youth Tour Delegates Enjoy Action-Packed Trip To D.C.!
In June, HomeWorks was proud to send four exceptional students from within our service territory, along with an employee chaperone, to participate in the 2024 Electric Cooperative Youth Tour in Washington, D.C. From left to right, Dylan Underwood of Portland High School, Grant Smith of Shepherd High School, Emma Morden of Chippewa Hills High School, Kenzie Karcher of Montabella High School, and HomeWorks IT Specialist Jamie Trommater represented our Co-op as a part of the tour’s Michigan cohort. This year’s five-day trip included a tour of the U.S. Capitol Building, the Supreme Court, and the Library of Congress, a meeting with Congressional staff, visits to Arlington National Cemetery and several D.C. memorials and monuments, a Washington Nationals baseball game, and much more. Watch Country Lines for info on the 2025 Youth Tour; applications will open this winter!
Teachers, it’s time to apply for our 2024–25 Classroom S.T.E.A.M. Grants of up to $2,000! We’d love to Applications Are Open For 2024-25 Classroom Grants
Mystery Photo
Win a $100 energy bill credit!
Where In Michigan Is This?
Identify the correct location of the photo above by Sept. 25 and be entered into a drawing to win a $100 electric bill credit. Enter your guess at countrylines.com/community
July/Aug. 2024
Winner! Our Mystery Photo winner is Robert Nelson, a Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op member who correctly identified the photo as the Ojibwa Chief Wawatam statue in Mackinaw City. Winners are announced in the following issues of Country Lines: January, March, May, July/ August, September, and November/December.
I The Ford Confusion
By J. Joseph Mapes, a Midwest Energy & Communications Cooperative member
grew up in Grand Rapids, Michigan, not far from my grandparents in Lowell. For almost three decades, my grandmother had a housekeeper named Helen Ford, who became close friends with her and my mother. I heard much about her, but we only personally met later in life. During that time, my grandfather, C. H. Runciman, had become good friends with a young man named Gerald R. Ford. He encouraged Ford to get into politics, and eventually, “Jerry” was elected to the U. S. Congress.
In Lowell, my grandfather was one of the founders of The Lowell Showboat, serving as the interlocutor from 1932 to 1958. He was responsible for obtaining talent for the shows and would have an opening night gathering in his yard, with headliners and dignitaries attending. Sometimes, the governor would attend, and Congressman Ford was always there on opening night for many years.
Sadly, in 1968, my grandfather passed away. Jerry Ford was in Mexico at the time and could not attend the funeral (as he had for my father in 1962). He did send a letter to my grandmother Gladys, saying, “I had no better friend than C. H., despite the difference in our ages.”
The opening night gatherings continued next door, overflowing into my grandmother’s yard. In July of 1974, however, something was different: Gerald R. Ford became vice president and vowed to attend as usual. One of the first things he did was visit my 83-year-old grandmother on her porch, and their photo was published in the Grand Rapids Press. I arrived shortly after Ford returned to the yard while my grandmother was speaking with two women on her porch. So I went up to see her and was introduced to “Mrs. Ford and her daughter Susan.” I immediately thought (logically?) that it was Mrs. Helen Ford since the two had been such longtime friends. After a few minutes, I looked toward the neighbor’s yard, where a large banner read, “Welcome Vice President and Mrs. Ford.” Then it clicked. I wasn’t chatting with Helen Ford; it was with Betty Ford and her daughter, Susan Ford! I’ve always wondered if anyone caught on. I sure didn’t admit it at the time.
About the Author: J. Joseph Mapes is a retired owner of Bank Street Bingo Hall and Bank Street Winter Market in Kalamazoo. He enjoys being outside grooming trails and just being with nature.
Guest Column Win $200 for stories published!
Share your fondest memories and stories. Win $200 for stories published. Visit countrylines.com/community to submit.
The A ordable Geothermal System
Well-Connect is a hybrid geothermal heat pump for the rural homeowner that has a well and heats with propane, fuel oil or wood. It works with your existing furnace, it does not replace it.
Similar to how a hybrid vehicle greatly reduces the need for gasoline, doubling a vehicle’s e ciency, a Well-Connect greatly reduces the amount of propane needed to heat a home and quadruples the e ciency of the home’s heating system. This hybrid approach saves a homeowner 50% - 75% on the heating costs and provides air-conditioning for pennies a day.
Geothermal e ciency for the price of an air source heat pump
HomeWorks.org facebook.com/homeworks.org homeworks.org facebook.com/homeworks.org
Report Outages: 1-800-848-9333