Sept 2025 Cherryland

Cherryland Electric Cooperative

September 2025

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

Where Sugar Starts → Michigan’s Rooted Success Story

When Mandate Meets Mission You’re Part of a Larger Power Grid Young Marines Honor History

WATERFURNACE UNITS QUALIFY FOR A 30% FEDERAL TAX CREDIT THROUGH 2025

Feeling is believing.

THE RELIABLE™ RENEWABLE You may not see your underground WaterFurnace geothermal system.

But you'll definitely notice its effects.

When it comes to your HVAC system, you primarily want to know whether it will comfortably heat and cool your home. With WaterFurnace, that answer is a resounding "yes." Our units operate for longer periods at lower speeds, providing stable temperatures all year round. This helps eliminate hot or cold spots, so you'll be comfortable in every room. Experience a WaterFurnace geothermal system in action, and you'll feel the difference.

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

--- CO-OP REBATE INCEN TIVES

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

lndlan River M&M Plm b & 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/Air Serv of Southern Michigan (517) 764-1500 airser v.com/southern­ michigan/

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-0-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

visit us at waterfurnace.com/mi Smarter from the Ground Up"

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

@2025 WaterFurnace is a registered trademark of WaterFurnace International, Inc.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

Contents countrylines.com

September 2025 Vol. 45, No. 9 /michigancountrylines

/michigancountrylines

EXECUTIVE EDITOR: Casey Clark EDITOR: Christine Dorr GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Karreen Bird RECIPE EDITOR: Christin Russman COPY EDITOR: Yvette Pecha CONTRIBUTING EDITOR: Emily Haines Lloyd PUBLISHER: Michigan Electric Cooperative Association Michigan Country Lines, USPS591-710, 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.

6

Subscriptions are authorized for members of Alger Delta, Cherryland, Great Lakes, HomeWorks Tri-County, Midwest Energy & Communications, Ontonagon, Presque Isle, and Thumb electric cooperatives by their boards of directors.

POSTMASTER: Send all UAA to CFS. ASSOCIATION OFFICERS: Chris O’Neill, HomeWorks TriCounty Cooperative, chairman; Gabe Schneider, Cherryland Electric Cooperative, vice chairman; Shaun Lamp, Great Lakes Energy Cooperative, secretary-treasurer; John Kran, president and CEO.

14

CONTACT US/LETTERS TO EDITOR: Michigan Country Lines 201 Townsend St., Suite 900 Lansing, MI 48933 248-534-7358 editor@countrylines.com

MI CO-OP Community

CHANGE OF ADDRESS: Please notify your electric cooperative.

See page 4 for contact information.

See details on page 10. VeggieLoaded Comfort Foods, due Nov. 1.

Win a $100 bill credit!

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

MICHIGAN’S ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES

10

6 SCULPTED BY NATURE,

RECIPE CONTEST

BUILT FOR ADVENTURE: SILVER LAKE SAND DUNES Step into a paradise where sun, sand, and water come together.

GUEST COLUMN

10 MI CO-OP KITCHEN Perfectly Potatoes: Comforting, crispy, creamy—discover delicious ways to enjoy this versatile favorite.

See details on page 18. Share your fondest memories and stories.

Win $200 for stories published!

MYSTERY PHOTO

See details on page 18.

Win a $100 bill credit!

To enter contests, submit reader content & more, visit countrylines.com/community

14 WHERE SUGAR STARTS:

MICHIGAN’S ROOTED SUCCESS STORY Michigan Sugar’s cooperative heritage showcases the sweet strength of community.

18 GUEST COLUMN

Little Teacher, Big Lesson: How a Homeworks member’s young grandson demonstrated the power of owning our mistakes.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

3

CO-OP NEWS Co-op Board Holds Public Meeting Regarding Energy Waste Reduction Plan Surcharge LEELANAU BENZIE

GRAND TRAVERSE

MANISTEE

WEXFORD

KALKASKA

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Gabe Schneider, President 517-449-6453 gschneider@cherrylandelectric.coop Valarie Handy, Senior Vice President 231-392-4705 vhandy@cherrylandelectric.coop Melinda Lautner, Secretary 231-947-2509 mlautner@cherrylandelectric.coop Dean Adams, Treasurer 231-642-0014 dadams@cherrylandelectric.coop Terry Lautner, Director 231-883-6455 tlautner@cherrylandelectric.coop David Schweitzer, Director 231-883-5860 dschweitzer@cherrylandelectric.coop Tom Van Pelt, Director 231-386-5234 tvanpelt@cherrylandelectric.coop CEO Rachel Johnson CO-OP EDITORS: Courtney Doyle: cdoyle@cherrylandelectric.coop

This month, Cherryland’s board of directors will hold a member input session at the cooperative office in Grawn to consider a proposed surcharge to fund the cooperative’s state mandated energy waste reduction plan. If approved, the surcharge would be seen on bills in January.

The official open meeting will be held on Monday, Sept. 22, at 9 a.m., ahead of the monthly board meeting. Members are welcome to provide public comments to the board during that time. For more information regarding the proposed surcharge, see page 16 of this issue.

Cherryland Cares Awards $15,000 To Four Nonprofits At its second-quarter board meeting, the Cherryland Cares board awarded grants to four local nonprofit organizations: Generations Ahead, Grand Traverse Dyslexia Association, Love Thy Neighbor, and SEEDS Ecology & Education Centers.

In 2025, Cherryland Cares has awarded a total of $30,365 in grants to area nonprofits.

The Cherryland Cares board is comprised of five volunteer Cherryland members. The funds distributed by Cherryland Cares are a result of members electing to round up their monthly bills to the nearest dollar. Members can contribute to the Cherryland Cares fund by calling 231-486-9200, signing up through SmartHub, or emailing us at cec@cherrylandelectric.coop.

If you are an area nonprofit agency looking to apply for our next grant cycle, please call Shannon Beery at 231-486-9218 or email her at sbeery@cherrylandelectric.coop.

Cherryland Office Hours Beginning Sept. 2, the Cherryland office will resume traditional office hours of Monday–Friday from 7:30 a.m.–4 p.m.

ANNUAL MEETING BY THE NUMBERS

Bailey Watson: bwatson@cherrylandelectric.coop OFFICE HOURS Monday–Friday 7:30 a.m.–4 p.m.

TELEPHONE NUMBERS 231-486-9200 or 1-800-442-8616 (Mich.)

ADDRESS P.O. Box 298, Grawn, MI 49637 PAY STATION Cherryland Electric Cooperative office 5930 U.S. 31 South, Grawn MI, 49637 Cherryland Electric Cooperative is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

4

SEPTEMBER 2025

912 Attendees

739 Ice Cream Scoops

cherrylandelectric.coop

720 Birthday Cupcakes

/cherrylandelectriccoop

3,938 Votes Cast

@cherrylandec

When Mandates Meet Mission What PA 169 Means for Cherryland

By Rachel Johnson, Cherryland CEO

In December 2024, the Michigan legislature passed a bill during a lame duck session that will impact your electric bill going forward.

Michigan Public Act 169-2024 adds a monthly charge to every electric bill in the state of Michigan. The money collected will fund the Michigan Energy Assistance Program, known as MEAP, which provides support to incomequalified households to help avoid energy shutoffs.

Until now, Cherryland was exempt from this charge. We opted out because, year after year, we were required to collect more from our members than our community received back in assistance. In essence, our members were subsidizing electric bills elsewhere in the state.

That decision wasn’t without consequence. By opting out, we were prohibited from disconnecting past-due accounts during the winter months.

For the last 10 years, we’ve honored a winter moratorium on disconnections from Nov. 1 to April 15.

The MEAP program has always brought up mixed feelings for me. On one hand, I believe deeply in helping our most vulnerable members keep their lights on. Cherryland has led with compassion and innovation—piloting the first low-income community solar program in the state, launching a home repair grant program, and supporting nonprofits that make homes more efficient for families who can’t afford upgrades on their own. I would never advocate for withholding help from those who need it.

One positive change in the new MEAP law is the increased income eligibility threshold, which means more families may qualify for assistance. That’s good news.

But I remain skeptical of programs that have historically funneled rural dollars to urban centers. Under the new legislation, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services will be required to report where MEAP funds are collected and where they’re distributed. That kind of transparency is overdue, and we’ll be watching closely to ensure our members see a fair return on what they’re paying in.

In the meantime, here’s what this new law means for you: • Starting in September, you’ll see a $1.25 per meter per month statemandated charge on your electric bill. This charge will appear as “MI PA 169-2024 Compliance” and 100% of those funds will be remitted to the state.

• We will no longer observe a winter disconnect moratorium.

• Disconnections for nonpayment will follow our regular billing cycle year-round. However, members will now qualify for MEAP funds year-round beginning October 1, 2025. We want to make sure our members get the assistance they’re paying for, so please give us a call, check out our podcast, or hop on our website to learn more about how to apply for assistance.

If you have concerns or want to share feedback on this state mandate, I encourage you to reach out to your elected officials.

As always, we’ll continue to advocate for energy solutions that serve our community—not just in theory, but in practice.

To hear more, listen to the Co-op Energy Talk Podcast

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

5

DISCOVERING MICHIGAN’S MAGIC Cassondra Wanders Adventure Series

Mac Wood’s Dune Rides

629 N. 18th Ave., Mears, MI 49436 For those seeking a thrilling guided experience, Mac Wood’s Dune Rides offers a one-of-a kind, 7-mile dune buggy ride through the dunes. A family tradition established in 1930, this 40-minute interpretive tour provides insights into the area’s history and ecology. Take a quick break at Lake Michigan before traversing the tallest dunes on Silver Lake.

Mac Wood’s buggy tours are seasonally available on a walk-in basis—no presale tickets or reservations are needed.

Photo by Shannon Priebe

Exploring Silver Lake Sand Dunes Along the eastern shores of Lake Michigan lies an oasis in Oceana County where stunning sand dunes meet sparkling serene waters. The unique landscape of Silver Lake Sand Dunes keeps visitors returning year after year. Thrill seekers, families, and nature lovers are drawn to Silver Lake Sand Dunes for the exhilarating adventures and captivating beauty.

From scaling giant sand dunes to cruising the waterways and soaking in the sunsets, this premier recreational destination has so much to explore.

Silver Lake State Park The park encompasses over 2,000 acres of sand dunes. It’s situated on both Lake Michigan and Silver Lake, creating a sanctuary for swimming, sailing, sunbathing, and fishing. Silver Lake State Park also boasts three miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, a modern campground with a day-use area, and a boat access site. However, the park’s most distinctive feature is its 450-acre Silver Lake off-road vehicle (ORV) area, operating from April 1 through Oct. 31. Silver Lake Sand Dunes is the only place east of the Mississippi River where visitors can drive private motorized vehicles across the sand dunes. Bring your own 4x4 or ATV/UTV, or rent one from a local outfitter, and enjoy one of nature’s greatest playgrounds.

6

SEPTEMBER 2025

Little Sable Point Lighthouse

287 N. Lighthouse Dr., Mears, MI 49436 Standing sentinel over the dunes is the spectacular Little Sable Lighthouse, clocking in at 115 feet tall. Built in 1874, its distinctive red brick construction is a testament to the region’s maritime heritage. During summer and fall, visitors can climb the tower for panoramic views of Lake Michigan and the surrounding landscape.

Cherry Point Lavender Farm & Market

Country Dairy Farm Store, Deli & Visitor Center

Cherry Point Lavender Farm & Market is one of the oldest operating farms in Oceana County, opened in 1949.

Come to absorb the aromas or sniff your way through the labyrinth and herb garden. Gardens are open to the public daily during business hours May 2 through Oct. 31, and there is no cost to enter. Lavender is typically in season from mid- to late July. Visit the market to pick up souvenirs, gifts, jams, jellies, and homegrown baked goods made with orchard-fresh produce.

Country Dairy began in the 1880s when Andrew Van Gunst came from the Netherlands to West Michigan.

Now into its fourth generation, Country Dairy employs around 125 people who milk over 1,000 cows, process milk, and make cheese, ice cream, and butter. The Farm Store is a favorite destination for tourists and guests from all over the world. Come inside to dine, enjoy unlimited refills on chocolate milk, and shop for gifts, meats, baked goods, and more.

9600 W. Buchanan Road, Shelby, MI USA 49455

3476 S. 80th Ave., New Era, MI 49446

Step into a paradise where sun, sand, and water come together at Silver Lake Sand Dunes. Wowing visitors with its natural wonder and dynamic landscape, you’re promised an unforgettable adventure.

Scan the QR code to watch a video of Cassondra’s adventure to Silver Lakes Sand Dunes

Lewis Adventure Farm & Zoo

4180 West M-20, New Era, MI 49446 Lewis Adventure Farm & Zoo is a fifth-generation family fruit farm, corn maze, and petting zoo with over 46 attractions. Here, the excitement never ends—meet exotic animals, ride the giant slide, or cool off at the Splash Acres spray park. Lewis Adventure Farm & Zoo is a haven for food lovers, offering everything from savory delights to tasty sweets that are sure to satisfy your craving. Be sure to stop by the bakery for fresh pies, breads, and other goodies.

Reserve an Animal Encounter for an up-close experience to feed and learn all about sloths, lemurs, and kangaroos. Fall season on the farm officially begins Sept. 5 with the pictureperfect pumpkin house and other seasonal activities. U-pick produce is available mid-September through October.

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.

/cassondrawanders

/cassondra.wanders

@cassondrawanders

@cassondrawanders

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

7

Your Board In Action

June 2025 • Following Cherryland’s 87th Annual Meeting and recent board elections, the board held its annual reorganization meeting. The elected board roles are as follows:

Gabe Schneider

-

President: Gabe Schneider Vice President: Valarie Handy Secretary: Melinda Lautner Treasurer: Dean Adams

• The cooperative’s communication and member relations manager presented the Member Experience Strategic Plan, which focuses on creating a more personalized experience for members. This plan includes: - New payment programs - Personalization and optionality - New energy use programs Valarie Handy

• The board of directors heard an update on the ongoing facilities project focused on the planning and zoning process with Garfield Township.

• The board of directors approved a Rural Economic Development Loan for Pro Image.

July 2025 • The board of directors heard an update on how planning and preparing for the evolution of AI will fit into the cooperative’s strategic plan.

Melinda Lautner

• The cooperative’s chief operating officer and communications and member relations manager gave a presentation on grid event preparedness and how the cooperative would communicate with members in the case of mandatory rolling blackouts.

• The cooperative’s communications and member relations manager presented the co-op’s strategy to comply with the state mandated energy waste reduction requirements, including information regarding a proposed surcharge to pay for the mandated program. More information regarding this state mandate can be found on page 16 of this issue.

Dean Adams

8

SEPTEMBER 2025

YOU’RE PART OF A LARGER POWER GRID Every time you charge your phone, you’re connecting to more than just an outlet—you’re plugging into a complex power grid.

The Interconnected Power Grid Cherryland Electric Cooperative, along with four other cooperatives, gets its power from Wolverine Power Cooperative. Together, we co-own Wolverine, which makes power more affordable and reliable than operating on our own.

Wolverine and Cherryland are a part of an even bigger network that extends from Canada to Louisiana, connecting various power generators and highvoltage transmission companies.

How Being Connected Impacts You The connected grid works great as long as there is enough supply to meet demand. In recent years, utilities have faced increasing pressure to retire coal plants faster than they can replace them, resulting in a reduction of power supply reserves. Even though Wolverine has secured more than enough power for Cherryland members, we share the grid and its power supply with other utilities.

WE SHARE POWER

Being connected allows regions to share power and send it to where it’s needed most. This provides you with enhanced reliability and reduced energy costs.

WE SHARE RISK

If one part of the region has an electricity shortage, it can spread through the connected grid like a contagious illness.

WE SHARE RESPONSIBILITY

Even though Cherryland has more than enough power to meet your needs, during a grid shortage, rules can require us to participate in rolling blackouts or ask you to conserve energy.

So, the next time you switch on a light or plug in your gadgets, remember that you’re plugging into a network of collaboration.

MI CO-OP Kitchen

PERFECTLY POTATOES

Comforting, crispy, creamy—discover delicious ways to enjoy this versatile favorite.

WINNING RECIPE! GREEK ROASTED POTATOES Karen Stephens, Great Lakes Energy 5 pounds russet potatoes, washed and peeled 1 lemon (zest and juice) ¼ cup melted butter ¼ cup olive oil 1½ teaspoons salt 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon garlic powder ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper ½ teaspoon paprika, plus additional for sprinkling 1½ cups chicken broth ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley, optional Preheat oven to 375 F. Cut peeled potatoes in half lengthwise and cut halves into smaller pieces.

Place potatoes in a large bowl. Zest and juice the lemon and add both over the potatoes. Add the melted butter, oil, salt, oregano, garlic powder, black pepper, and paprika. Stir to coat. Transfer the potatoes to a 9x13-inch baking pan. Slowly pour the chicken broth into the pan (note: don’t pour directly over the potatoes or all the spices will be removed). Dust potatoes with additional paprika, if desired. Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 40 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 40 minutes or until potatoes are tender. Remove from oven and cover again with foil; let rest for 15 minutes (this helps the potatoes soak up more of the spices).

Remove the foil and sprinkle with fresh parsley.

Watch a video of this month’s winning recipe at micoopkitchen.com/videos

RECIPE CONTEST

Win a $100 energy bill credit!

Veggie-Loaded Comfort Foods, due Nov. 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 SEPTEMBER 2025

DILL PICKLE POTATO SALAD Luise Bolleber, Cherryland Electric Cooperative 2 pounds Yukon gold potatoes ½ cup mayonnaise ¼ cup sour cream 1 tablespoon spicy brown mustard ¼ cup dill pickle juice ¼ cup fresh chives, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)

¼ teaspoon salt ¹⁄8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper ¹⁄3 cup red onion, finely chopped 1 stalk celery, thinly sliced ½ cup dill pickles, chopped 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped

Boil the potatoes in salted water until fork tender. Drain and let cool. Peel off the skins and cut into cubes. In a large bowl, add the mayo, sour cream, mustard, pickle juice, chives, dill, salt, and black pepper. Combine. Add the cubed potatoes, red onion, celery, pickles, and eggs. Toss gently to combine.

Taste and add more salt, pepper, or pickle juice, if desired. Refrigerate for 1 hour before serving.

NENE’S POTATO SOUP Jodi Drogowski, Great Lakes Energy 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed 2 cups water 3 tablespoons butter 1 small onion, peeled and diced 3 tablespoons flour ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

¹⁄8 teaspoon (or less) cayenne pepper 2 cups milk 3 tablespoons sugar 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded 1 cup bacon, cooked and crumbled

In a large pot, boil the cubed potatoes in 2 cups water for approximately 10 minutes (until tender but not soft). Drain potatoes, reserving liquid. Set potatoes and reserved liquid aside. Melt butter in saucepan over medium heat. Sauté diced onion in butter until translucent and tender (but not brown). Add flour to saucepan. Season with black pepper and cayenne pepper. Add 1 cup reserved liquid into saucepan, stirring continuously.

Add milk to saucepan; stir until slightly thickened. Add boiled potatoes and sugar to saucepan. Add cheese and bacon to saucepan. Simmer over low heat for 30 minutes, stirring frequently. Serve warm (with homemade rolls and butter!).

ROSTI WITH BAKED EGGS Vicky Hueter, Great Lakes Energy 1¼ cups Greek yogurt 2 tablespoons flour 1½ cups peeled, grated turnips 1¼ cups shredded Gruyère cheese ¹⁄3 cup butter, melted ¼ cup chives, chopped (plus more for garnishing) 1¼ teaspoons salt

½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper ¼ teaspoon nutmeg 1 (30-ounce) package frozen shredded hash browns, thawed 8 large eggs • cooking spray

Preheat oven to 400 F. Coat a 9x13-inch baking pan with cooking spray.

In a large bowl, combine yogurt and flour; stir well. Add turnips, Gruyère cheese, butter, chives, salt, black pepper, nutmeg, and hash browns. Stir until combined. Spread mixture evenly in the 9x13-inch baking dish. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove from oven and make 8 indentations with the back of a spoon. Crack an egg into each and return to oven for 8–10 minutes until egg whites are firm and yolks barely move when touched. Garnish with additional chives and black pepper. Serves 8.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 11

Young Marines Honor History:

A Journey to Preserve the Past

By Bailey Watson

Do you ever wonder what’s in that box, the one sitting in the basement at your grandma’s house? It might be labeled, or it might not, but it just sits there for decades, untouched until moving it becomes a necessity. One northern Michigan family’s need to move such a box sparked an exciting journey for Brian Wheelock and the Traverse City Young Marines.

Brian started this journey not knowing where it would lead or what impact it would have on himself and the community.

It began with a phone call from a northern Michigan family preparing to pack up their home and move, asking if he would take a box they had been holding onto for the last 40 years. The contents of the box? Personal belongings from Marine Gunnery Sgt. Donald V. Paradise. Paradise was a Marine, Devil Dog, and all-around World War I war hero. As a member of the Marine Corps League, Wheelock contacted the Marine Archives to see if any of this material would be of interest to them. It was. In fact, they already had a file on Paradise, and they were happy to add to the collection.

Wheelock, the Unit Commander of the Traverse City Young Marines, didn’t want this box of artifacts to just sit in another corner for 40 more years. He saw an opportunity and requested that the local Young Marines unit escort this piece of local history to the Marine Archives in Washington, D.C. The cost of the trip would be over $14,000. That didn’t slow

12 SEPTEMBER 2025

this unit down; through fundraising and community support, they were able to accomplish their goals. Wheelock was floored by the community response: “When people found out what we were doing, it was an overwhelming response from the community. I’ve been in the program for 40 years and never received a response like that.”

While the purpose of their trip was to escort a piece of history, they also had the opportunity to experience some other highlights. They visited monuments, museums, and even the floor of the Capitol Building, escorted by Michigan Rep. Jack Bergman, a Marine himself. “It was amazing getting to go places that people don’t usually get to go,” said Young Marine Patience Moore, a Cherryland member and one of the Young Marines who went on the trip. “Being able to bring the artifacts in when people don’t get to do that, it was overwhelming because it was something I will remember forever,” she continued. The Marine Corps Archives welcomed their unit with open arms, laying out pieces of history, including items from Paradise’s collection, for the Young Marines to see.

With so many once-in-a-lifetime experiences for these Young Marines, how could they choose a highlight? When asked, Moore said, “Honestly, it was seeing everyone’s faces when they first got to D.C. and walked up the Lincoln Memorial. It was so cool to watch them discover the world is bigger than just Traverse City.” For some of these students, this was their first time out of the city or state.

Expanding their horizons is just one of the things the Young Marines program can do for the students in the community.

“ When people found out what we were doing, it was an overwhelming response from the community. I’ve been in the program for 40 years and never received a response like that.”

The Traverse City unit of the Young Marines has an excellent community reputation, but that doesn’t go without the occasional misunderstanding. “A lot of people, when they think of the Young Marines, they think it’s some kind of group where kids who can’t behave themselves go to get squared away,” said Wheelock. That is not the case; this group, built on Marine Corps foundations, teaches kids about leadership, discipline, and teamwork, creating an atmosphere where kids from ages 8 to high school graduation can thrive and develop skills that will serve them well into the future. Our Traverse City Young Marines participate in parades, volunteering, assisting in community celebrations, and outreach campaigns, such as Toys for Tots.

The Traverse City community is fortunate to have a group of young people who are deeply invested in giving back, developing themselves and creating a stronger community.

The Traverse City unit was founded in 1972 and is now the longest-running unit in Michigan, celebrating over 50 years.

They are a true asset to this community, protecting our past and building a strong future.

For more information about joining or supporting the Traverse City Young Marines, visit youngmarines.org.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 13

Where Sugar Starts ↓

MICHIGAN’S ROOTED SUCCESS STORY Grower-owned, community-driven, and deeply Michigan.

By Emily Haines Lloyd

n Michigan, the cooperative spirit runs deep—whether it’s powering homes or planting sugar beets, co-ops have brought people together around shared goals, mutual investment, and local leadership.

I

Few stories illustrate that better than the partnership between Michigan Sugar Company and the farming families who own it—families like the Briolats, who grow sugar beets as well as help govern rural electric policy.

Headquartered in Bay City and founded in 1906, Michigan Sugar is the third-largest sugar beet producer in the United States, producing the well-known Pioneer Sugar brand.

Today, the company includes about 865 grower-owners cultivating sugar beets on roughly 140,000 acres across 20 counties in Michigan and Ontario.

“Being a part of two co-ops really shows you how similar the values are,” said Mike Briolat, who manages Briolat Farms alongside his brother, Steve, and son, Justin.“You’re making decisions for the long term, weighing investments, asking who’s tried what, and what worked. It’s all about making things better for your members and your community.”

Unlike traditional corporations, Michigan Sugar—and electric co-ops around the state—operates with a peoplefirst model. The growers and members are also the owners, with decision-making power and a shared stake in the outcome. It’s a system that keeps profits local, encourages innovation, and builds long-term value for communities.

Michigan Sugar alone supports more than 1,000 full-time and 1,100 seasonal jobs and produces 1.3 billion pounds of sugar annually.

While the Briolats have farmed for over 75 years on their land, sugar beets were a relatively new crop to them in the mid-80s. What started with planting 100 acres of sugar beets has turned into around 450 acres and harvesting 30 to 34 tons per acre—well beyond what they could have imagined back then.

14 SEPTEMBER 2025

The family’s connection to Michigan Sugar deepened in 2002, when the company officially became a grower-owned

co-op. At the same time, Mike’s father, Leonard, served on the Thumb Electric Cooperative Board of Directors— a legacy Mike would continue. He has followed his father’s footsteps on both the farm and in TEC’s boardroom for Sanilac County’s District 2.

The Briolats have remained passionate about keeping those boards—like the land—growing and evolving. Staying open to change, while also honoring tradition, is another common thread amongst co-ops.

“You want fresh ideas in the field, and you need them in the boardroom too,” Briolat said. “And I am encouraged by some younger folks stepping up, bringing different perspectives.

It’s good for the board, and it’s better for the members.”

Michigan Sugar continues to invest in grower programs, sustainability, and innovation to ensure the cooperative model stays strong—but its greatest strength is its people.

Families like the Briolats bring not only generations of experience but dedication, know-how, and shared purpose to every acre.

“It’s not just about growing sugar beets,” Briolat said.

“Cooperatives are about rolling up your sleeves and pitching in—supporting your neighbors, building a future for the next generation, and doing your part for the community.”

↖

Pictured from left to right are Steve, Leonard, Mike and Justin Briolat

“BEING A PART OF TWO CO-OPS REALLY SHOWS YOU HOW SIMILAR THE VALUES ARE. IT’S ALL ABOUT MAKING THINGS BETTER FOR YOUR MEMBERS AND YOUR COMMUNITY.”

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 15

NOTICE OF BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING OF THE CHERRYLAND ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE TO APPROVE AN ENERGY WASTE REDUCTION PLAN AND SURCHARGES Please be advised that pursuant to 2008 PA 295, as amended, and 2008 PA 167, as amended, the Cherryland Electric Cooperative Board of Directors will hold an open meeting on Sept. 22, 2025 at 9 a.m.

The purpose of the open meeting is to consider a surcharge to fund a state mandated energy waste reduction plan. The surcharge shall be implemented dependent upon costs associated with the state mandated energy waste reduction plan. The proposed maximum monthly surcharge is as follows: • $0.005/kWh for residential members • $0.005/kWh for residential auxiliary members • $13.23/meter for general service members This annual meeting shall occur at the offices of Cherryland Electric Cooperative, 5930 U.S. 31, South Grawn, Michigan, promptly at 9 a.m. on September 22, 2025.

Please scan the QR Code for more information regarding the Energy Waste Reduction Mandate.

NOTICE TO MEMBERS OF CHERRYLAND ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE CASE NO. U-16591 2024 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 2024.

Under this requirement, Cherryland Electric Cooperative submits an annual report to the MPSC regarding its Renewable Energy Plan. In 2024, Cherryland acquired a total of 61,590 renewable energy credits. All credit transfers were directed through Cherryland’s 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 cooperative’s website at www.cherrylandelectric.coop or by request at any of the cooperative’s offices.

16 SEPTEMBER 2025

MI CO-OP Photo Contest

COLLEGE TOWNS

1

2

3

Enter to win up to $200 off your energy bill!

Submit Your “Pet Personalities” Photos By Sept. 25! Submit your best photo and encourage your friends to vote! The photo receiving the most votes in our Facebook contest will be printed in an issue of Country Lines, along with some of our other favorites. Our theme is Pet Personalities! Photos can be submitted through Sept. 25 to be featured in our Nov/Dec issue.

Enter Your Photos And Win A Bill Credit! To enter the contest, visit cherrylandelectric.coop/photo-contest or visit facebook.com/ cherrylandelectriccoop for a link to the current photo contest. Enter your picture, cast your vote, and encourage others to vote for you as well. If your photo is printed in Country Lines during 2025, you will be entered to win a credit of up to $200 on your December 2025 bill.

1. A nna McKimmy— “Western Michigan University twin power” 2. L aurie Johnston— “Kalamazoo in the fall” 3. N ick Aseritis— “A house divided...”

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 17

MI CO-OP Guest Column

Where In Michigan Is This?

Little Teacher, Big Lesson

When my grandson apologized, he reminded me how powerful it is to own our mistakes.

Anna Moore Bradfield, a HomeWorks Tri-County Cooperative member Isn’t it amazing when kids teach you something you already know but haven’t bothered to practice? My 3-year-old grandson Lincoln schooled me recently. You would have thought Mickey and Minnie Mouse had entered when my husband John and I popped in to see our daughter’s family. The kids went nuts, cracking up, dancing around us, and throwing their arms around our necks.

MYSTERY PHOTO Win a $100 energy bill credit!

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/AUGUST 2025 WINNER! Our Mystery Photo winner is Melissa McGuire, a Midwest Energy & Communications member who correctly identified the photo as the Applecore Cottage in Charlevoix, Michigan.

Winners are announced in the following issues of Country Lines: January, March, May, July/August, September, and November/December.

18 SEPTEMBER 2025

After the initial rush, Lincoln asked John, “Big Poppy, can I use your phone?” This boy knows more about technology than I ever will.

His Big Poppy said, “All right, but don’t download games. When Big Poppy asks for the phone, give it back, OK?” Of course, it was “OK” then. It would be hours before Big Poppy asked for the phone again. Lincoln toddled off, happy to reconnect with his best techno friends, Angry Birds.

Before Lincoln knew it and way before he was ready, Big Poppy said he needed his phone back since we were leaving. Keys in hand, I drew breath to ask where Lincoln was when I spotted his toes peeking out from under a blanket that blended seamlessly with the sofa. He had pulled the throw over himself, thinking he’d made himself invisible. If no one found him, he could keep the phone. Darned if those little piggies didn’t give him

away. We couldn’t leave without the phone. As we pulled the blanket up, Lincoln instantly morphed from his adorable, well-mannered, curlyheaded self to a bat-shrieking, monkey-clinging monster whose very existence depended on retaining that phone. His mom took charge. “See ya. Thanks for stopping by,” she said, as she dragged Lincoln out of the room.

We had barely settled into the car when John’s phone rang. “Hi, Big Poppy, this is Lincoln.” John grinned. “Hi, Lincoln.” “I’m sorry for crying when you asked for your phone. I shouldn’t have given you sass. I won’t do it again, Big Poppy.”

Such precious transparency: 1. Realize you messed up.

2. Admit it.

3. Apologize sincerely.

4. Don’t waste time doing it.

How well would it serve us all if we could harness this little habit?

GUEST COLUMN Win $200 for stories published!

Share your fondest memories and stories. Win $200 for stories published. Visit countrylines.com/community to submit.

STOP OVERPAYING TO STAY COMFORTABLE LOCK IN LOW HEATING & COOLING COSTS BY ADDING A WELL-CONNECT, THE MOST EFFICIENT SYSTEM FOR RURAL HOMEOWNERS.

4.8

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Check Out Our Google Reviews

1ST YEAR FREE First 200 Systems Only.

PERFORMANCE GUARANTEE

30% TAX CREDIT Tax Credits Expire at the end of 2025.

Don’t Miss Out.

UP TO

$2,000 IN REBATES

1-833-GEOWELL wellconnectgeo.com

GET A FREE QUOTE No home visit required for a free quote.

cherrylandelectric.coop

t s e t a l e h t g n i v Cra ? s w e n y energ

site b e w r u no to n e Listen o t s i l u ver yo e r e h w or s! podcast