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!
ontonagon.coop
/OntonagonCountyREA
500 J.K. Paul Street
Ontonagon, MI 49953
906-884-4151
800-562-7128
After hours: 866-639-6098
OFFICERS & DIRECTORS
William Hodges, President Lake Linden District
906-934-3743 • district7@ontorea.com
Calvin Koski, Vice President Aura District 906-524-6988 • district4@ontorea.com
Mildred Ann Gasperich, Secretary Boston District 906-337-5079 • district6@ontorea.com
Randy Myhren, Treasurer Green/Firesteel/Toivola District 906-884-4092 • district1@ontorea.com
Jack Lehto, Director Pelkie/Herman/Aura District 906-353-6684 • district3@ontorea.com
Paul Koski, Director Ewen/Trout Creek/Lake Mine District district2@ontorea.com
Michael Gaunt, Director Chassell/Keweenaw Bay District 906-370-8133 • district5@ontorea.com
PERSONNEL
Dallas Aho, CEO/General Manager
Alex Watson, Billing Clerk
Justin Sironen, Operations Manager
OTHER INFORMATION
Date of Incorporation: Sept. 30, 1937 Fiscal year-end: Dec. 31 countrylines.com/coops/ontonagon
Ontonagon County REA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
Preparing to Serve You Better
Dallas Aho, General Manager
roviding reliable power to you is and will always be a top priority for Ontonagon REA. These days, power reliability seems to be making news now more than ever.
PAs the energy industry continues to transition and more segments of the economy are becoming electrified, such as vehicles, machinery, and even lawn equipment, additional pressures are being placed on our nation’s electric grid.
With summer storm season upon us, I thought it would be a good time to tell you about a few measures we’re taking to ensure you continue receiving the reliable power you depend on and deserve.
Let me be the first to say I love trees and the charm they add to our communities, and I know you do too. While trees provide shade and add beauty to our area, you may be surprised to learn that overgrown vegetation accounts for about half of all power outages.
That’s why we strive to keep the co-op’s power lines clear in rightof-way (ROW) areas. A ROW area is the land a co-op uses to construct, maintain, replace, or repair underground and overhead power lines. These ROWs enable Ontonagon REA to provide clearance from trees and other obstructions that could hinder distribution power lines. The overall goal of our vegetation management strategy is to provide reliable power to our members while maintaining the beauty of our area.
Modernizing Vegetation Management
Generally speaking, healthy trees don’t fall on power lines, and clear lines don’t cause problems. Proactive trimming and pruning keep lines clear to improve power reliability. However, traditional vegetation management is costly and time consuming. It entails on-the-ground, labor-intensive efforts involving dozens of workers assessing vegetation and overseeing the quality and completion of contractor work. Although this approach has worked for decades, advances and improvements in technology have allowed us to reduce our costs and improve efficiency.
Planned Outages Improve Reliability
Although it may seem counterintuitive, we also maintain power reliability through planned, controlled outages. By carefully cutting power to one part of our local area for a few hours, Ontonagon REA can perform system repairs and upgrades, which ultimately improve electric service. Rest assured, we will always notify you in advance of a planned outage, so make sure we have your correct contact information on file to receive the latest calls, emails, or texts.
Vegetation management is an essential tool in ensuring power reliability and minimizing the risk of outages. As advancements become more accessible and costs drop, we anticipate using additional technologies to ensure a consistent energy supply while managing the environment.
Change In Office Hours: Effective Sept. 3, Ontonagon REA will return to winter office hours and be open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. EST, Monday through Friday.
Ontonagon County REA Board Names Dallas Aho
As New General Manager
The Ontonagon County Rural Electrification Association has named Dallas Aho as the cooperative’s new general manager. Born and raised in Greenland, Aho graduated from Ontonagon High School in 2011. He then pursued his higher education at Central Michigan University, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in health care administration and a minor in business administration.
Aho started his career working for United Mailing Service in Wausau. When visiting back home in Ontonagon, he met his future wife Andrea and began to pursue a job closer to home. He then transferred to CertainTeed in L’Anse, working as plant administrator for nearly three years. In February of 2023, he began working for Ontonagon REA as an administrative assistant to then-General Manager Eugene Soumis. Soumis left the cooperative in April and Aho was appointed interim general manager. In June, he was appointed as general manager by the board of directors.
Board President William Hodges said, “Committed to our REA is an understatement concerning Dallas. The board of directors has observed Dallas in the workplace for nearly two
3 WAYS TO SEAL IN COMFORT
In addition to increased comfort, weatherizing your home is an excellent way to save energy and lower your cooling and heating costs. Here are three ways you can seal in comfort and savings.
years. His passion for learning, attention to detail, and desire to advance our co-op made the board’s decision to appoint him as the CEO/GM a decision made with full confidence.”
Aho and his wife Andrea recently expanded their family, with the adoption of baby Adaline on March 5. Please join us in wishing him all the best in his new position.
Caulk
Apply caulk around cracks and openings between stationary components like door frames and window frames.
Weatherstripping
Install weatherstripping around components that move, like doors and operable windows.
Insulate
Adding insulation is an effective weatherization strategy, especially for older homes.
Consider additional insulation in areas like an unfinished attic, exterior walls, and floors above uninsulated spaces.
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.
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 the Michigan Electric Cooperative Association and fellow electric cooperatives in Michigan to drive innovation, make strategic investments, and advocate for a seamless transition that gives equal weight to affordability, environmental impact, and electric reliability.
Source: https://www.gatesnotes.com/Transmission
Enter to win a $50 energy bill credit!
Submit A Photo & Win A Bill Credit!
Ontonagon REA members whose photos we print in Michigan Country Lines during 2024 will be entered in a drawing. Four lucky members will win a credit of $50 on their December 2024 energy bills!
Upcoming Topics and Deadlines:
Wreaths, due Sept. 25 (Nov./Dec. issue)
Historical Treasures, due Nov. 25 (Jan./Feb. 2025 issue)
Sunrise To Sunset , due Dec. 20 (March/April issue)
To submit photos, and for details and instructions, go to http://bit.ly/countrylines. We look forward to seeing your best photos!
1. Cozied up with their quilts! Danielle Impola
2. Quilted gift from my daughter Jenna. Barb Parker
3. Chester and Billy. Teresa Woods
4. This quilt was made by my aunt for my mom. She made it to look like a Lake Superior beach. Leah Ollanketo
5. Uncaptioned. Sandy Menge
6. Paducah Nine Patch, 18 months to complete, entirely hand sewn. They are so spiritual. Barbara Lawrence
7. Mystery Quilt made by Jean Trudgeon, Ewen. Two clues were emailed to each quilter a week, until it was completed. Jean Trudgeon
8. Grandmother Hannah’s quilt. Barbara Bouwkamp
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!
2024 Annual Meeting Highlights
Ontonagon County Rural Electrification (OCREA) held its Annual Meeting on Saturday, June 15, at Chassell High School. Members from the co-op’s seven-district service area attended the event, which featured election results, reports from the co-op staff, a discussion of old and new business, prize drawings, and lunch.
Board President William Hodges began the meeting by welcoming everyone and introducing the members of the board as well as other REA representatives that were present at the meeting. He announced the appointment of Dallas Aho as general manager effective in June 2024 and the retirement of Billing Clerk Fay Hauswirth. Hodges thanked her for her years of service.
Secretary Ann Gasperich announced that there was no need for an election committee since the District 7 and District 4 directors ran unopposed this year. William Hodges, the incumbent for District 7 (Lake Linden), and Calvin Koski, the incumbent for District 4 (Aura/Skanee), will both retain their seats until the 2027 election.
President Hodges gave an overview of cooperative finances, stating that one of the chief concerns of an electric cooperative is that it be run in an honest and careful manner, in order to manage costs effectively and to secure reliable power for the lowest cost possible. Each year, the REA undergoes an independent audit of its books and business practices by an accounting firm. The cooperative received an audit report, which verified that the cooperative’s books are in order, that best business practices are being employed by management, and that all transactions for the past three years are
appropriate and properly accounted. The 2023 audit has not yet been completed, but it will be published on the REA website when it is completed.
President Hodges then called upon General Manager Dallas Aho to give the financial report. Director Mike Gaunt provided an Operations report. Guest speaker Eric Baker, CEO of Wolverine Power, gave a speech on Wolverine and the Purchased Power Contract Extension.
The meeting concluded with a prize drawing and a luncheon prepared by the Keweenaw Coop.
The Steps to Restoring Power
When a major outage occurs, our crews restore service to the greatest number of people in the shortest time possible—until everyone has power.
1. High-Voltage Transmission Lines
These lines carry large amounts of electricity. They rarely fail but must be repaired first.
2. Distribution Substations
Crews inspect substations, which can serve hundreds or thousands of people.
3. Main Distribution Lines
Main lines serve essential facilities like hospitals and larger communities.
4. Individual Homes and Businesses
After main line repairs are complete, we repair lines that serve individual homes and businesses.
Notice to Members of Ontonagon County REA
Case No. U-16595: 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, Ontonagon County REA submits an annual report to the MPSC regarding its Renewable Energy Plan. In 2023, Ontonagon County REA acquired a total of 3,869 renewable energy credits. Ontonagon County REA will continue to acquire 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 cooperative’s website at ontonagon.coop or by request at any of the cooperative’s offices.
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.”
The
structure is sound. A business plan has been drafted to stabilize and preserve it, with a goal to reopen it to the public as a museum.
Henry Ford’s Historic Alberta Sawmill Preserving the Last of the Northern Michigan Operations
By Wayne Abba
Located astride U.S. 41, 10 miles south of L’Anse in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, the tiny town of Alberta survives as the last intact remnant of Henry Ford’s vast Northern Michigan Operations (NMO). The NMO sawmills produced wood products for Ford automobiles and WWII gliders. Henry Ford personally selected the site to build a model industrial village during a visit to his Pequaming NMO sawmill in 1934. He named the new town Alberta after the daughter of NMO Manager F.G. Johnson.
The Ford Motor Company closed the NMO when wood for autos became obsolete. In 1954, Ford Motor Company donated Alberta and the surrounding 1,700 acres to what is now the Michigan Technological University College of Forest Resources and Environmental Science for timber management and forestry education that continues to this day. Michigan Tech ceased sawmill operations in the 1970s, and Ford Motor Company funded renovations to open the sawmill as a museum in 1996.
All Ford NMO facilities were branded with stamps identifying the location— “AL N.M.O.” for Alberta.
(Photo courtesy of Wayne Abba)
sawmill
(Photo courtesy of Wayne Abba)
First published in the Ford Legend Newsletter, the official newsletter of the Henry Ford Heritage Association.
While Alberta continues to flourish as an academic center, its NMO history is in danger of being lost. Michigan Tech closed the museum in 2017 due to safety concerns and planned to begin demolishing the sawmill and pumphouse in 2022. That proved too much for local citizens, many of whose grandparents worked for NMO facilities or in logging and other related industries. They organized a committee under the auspices of the Baraga County Historical Society and, with Michigan Tech’s cooperation, began a campaign to preserve the historic buildings and reopen them to the public.
The committee and Michigan Tech sponsored a YouTube video by Alexis Dahl titled “Henry Ford’s Utopian Towns/ Alberta, Michigan” that has attracted more than 200,000 views in one year. The huge response shows how Henry Ford continues to intrigue people 70 years after the NMO closed. Faculty and students in Michigan Tech’s Department of Social Sciences are preparing a proposal to list Alberta in the National Register of Historic Places. When an official in Michigan’s State Historic Preservation Office learned that Alberta is intact as conceived by Henry Ford, including houses, support buildings, and forest acreage, she exclaimed, “You never see that!”
To date, the pumphouse has been restored and repurposed as Alberta Artisan House. A business plan to stabilize and preserve the sawmill is being finalized—a last effort to rescue this unique, complete example of a sawmill town created personally by Henry Ford as a social experiment and demonstration site for advanced technology. Its location adjacent to Canyon Falls on the main gateway to the western Upper Peninsula is ideal for establishing a regional tourism center. One could imagine Henry Ford supporting such an evolution.
The preservation effort was noticed by Brad Church, a grandson of Alberta Johnson, who commissioned a 1930s period painting of the sawmill by local artist Ruth Morris. He and the artist have graciously allowed the preservation committee to sell reprints to assist in publicity and fundraising. Contributions may be sent to Baraga County Historical Society, Inc., PO Box 567, Baraga, MI 49908, with a memo entry for Ford Alberta Sawmill. For more information on the Historical Society, go to www.baragacountyhistoricalmuseum.com.
Wayne Abba, whose grandfather worked at the Pequaming NMO, is a volunteer with the Ford Alberta Sawmill Preservation Committee. His mother and her siblings attended school in Pequaming and entertained the Fords on their frequent visits. His late Aunt Doris spoke fondly of dancing with Henry as a schoolgirl.
The pumphouse has been restored and shines like a jewel at the entrance to the Michigan Technological University Ford Center. It now houses Alberta Artisan House, owned by Jackie Rowlison, a local artist and schoolteacher.
(Photo courtesy of Wayne Abba)
Artist Ruth Morris unveils her painting of Alberta, commissioned by Alberta’s grandson.
The historic Ford Alberta Sawmill during its working days as a model facility for the Northern Michigan Operations.
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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.
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