Sept 2026 Alger

Alger Delta Cooperative Electric Association

September/October 2026

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

FUELED

BY GRIT PIPER BELL GOES PRO IN WOMEN’S MOTOCROSS RACING

Stitch

By Stitch

Annual Meeting Highlights

Supporting Youth In Agriculture

You may not realize it, but your home is sitting on a free and renewable supply of energy. A WaterFurnace geothermal comfort system taps into the stored solar energy in your own backyard to provide savings of up to 70% on heating, cooling, and hot water. That’s money in the bank and a smart investment in your family’s comfort. Plus, with the groundbreaking variable-speed 7 Series that operates at exactly the level needed in any heating or cooling situation, you’ll get the ultimate comfort, performance, and savings.

Contact your local WaterFurnace dealer today to learn how to tap into your buried treasure.

YOUR LOCAL WATERFURNACE DEALERS Allendale Allendale Htg & Clg (800) 327-1937 allendaleheating.com

Grand Rapids Bel Aire Htg & Clg 1 (888) 235-2473 belaire.com

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

Hart Adams Htg & Clg (231) 873-2665 adamsgeothermal-mi.com

Big Rapids Stratz Htg & Clg, Inc. (231) 796-3717 stratzgeocomfort.com

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

Cadillac Wilder Htg & Clg (231) 645-4822 Wilderheatingandcooling.com

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

Filion/Bad Axe Air-O-Dynamic Htg & Clg (989) 582-0137 aod-hvac.com

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

Gaylord Family Plmb & Htg (989) 732-8099 familyplumbingandheating.com

Manistique Hoholik Enterprise Inc. (906) 286.0572 bhoholik@gmail.com

WaterFurnace is a registered trademark of WaterFurnace International, Inc.

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

Mt Pleasant Walton Htg & Clg (989) 772-4822 waltonheating.com Muskegon TMC Mechanical LLC (231) 865-1114 tmcmechanicalllc.com

Sunfield Mark Woodman Plmb & Htg (517) 886-1138 mwphonline.com Three Rivers Bel Aire Htg & Clg 1 (888) 235-2473 belaire.com Traverse City Geofurnace Htg & Clg (231) 943-1000 geofurnace.com

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

CO-OP REBATE INCENTIVES

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

$2,250 rebate available through your co-op.

Sparta West Michigan Geothermal (616) 887-1290 westmigeothermal.com

visit us at waterfurnace.com/mi

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

Contents countrylines.com

September 2026 Vol. 46, No. 8

/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.

10

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. Cozy Bowls, 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

RECIPE CONTEST

14

6 CYCLING AMIDST

FALL’S BEAUTY The 53rd Apple Cider Century will be held in late September.

GUEST COLUMN

10 MI CO-OP KITCHEN

MYSTERY PHOTO

14 FUELED BY GRIT

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

Win $200 for stories published!

See details on page 18.

Win a $100 bill credit!

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

Pizza: Slice into something delicious.

Piper Bell goes pro in women’s motocross racing.

18 GUEST COLUMN

Recollections of a Bookworm.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

3

Electricity Brings Everyday Value

By Mike Furmanski, General Manager BOARD OF DIRECTORS District 1—Big Bay Darryl Small 906-345-9369 • d1director@algerdelta.com District 2—Harvey/Deerton Karen Alholm 906-249-1095 • d2director@algerdelta.com District 3—Grand Marais Tim Jenkins 586-306-2141 • d3director@algerdelta.com District 4—Cedar River/Palestine Bill Wotruba 414-507-9787 • d4director@algerdelta.com District 5—Gourley/LaBranche/Cornell/Harris Steve Wery 906-295-1255 • d5director@algerdelta.com District 6—Nathan/White Rapids Jesse Betters 715-923-4946 • d6director@algerdelta.com District 7—Stonington/Rapid River Kirk Bruno 906-399-1432 • d7director@algerdelta.com District 8—Nahma/Isabella Don Johnson 906-280-0867 • d8director@algerdelta.com District 9—Hiawatha/Maple Ridge Stephen Dausey 906-202-3899 • d9director@algerdelta.com GENERAL MANAGER: Mike Furmanski mfurmanski@algerdelta.com HEADQUARTERS: 426 N. 9th St, Gladstone, MI 49837 906-428-4141 • 800-562-0950 admin@algerdelta.com algerdelta.com

Alger Delta Cooperative is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

1 3

9 7 5 6

8

We know that many families across our local communities are feeling the impact of rising costs for everyday expenses.

Groceries, gasoline, insurance, and other necessities cost more than they did just a few years ago. And because of that, we understand that every household is carefully considering where each dollar goes.

That’s why I think it’s important to occasionally step back and consider the value electricity provides.

The average U.S. residential electric bill is about $150 a month—roughly $5 a day.

I often think about what that $5 provides. It’s about the cost of a specialty coffee, yet electricity powers nearly every moment of our daily lives, often without us giving it a second thought. In fact, many typical purchases cost more than a day’s worth of electricity. A fast-food combo meal averages about $9, and a single movie ticket can cost around $13.

For about $5 a day, your refrigerator keeps food fresh around the clock. Your heating and cooling system helps keep your family comfortable through the seasons. Lights brighten your home after sunset. Appliances make cooking and cleaning easier. Devices stay charged so you can work, learn, communicate, and stay connected with loved ones. When you think about everything electricity makes possible, it’s one of the greatest values in the average household budget.

Even with electricity’s exceptional value, we know every dollar matters. If you’re looking for ways to lower your energy use, Alger Delta is here to help. Whether you need efficiency advice from our energy advisors, information about co-op rebates and efficiency programs, or answers to questions about your monthly bill, our team is always available. Alger Delta is currently offering members a free, customized Energy-Saving Kit filled with easy-to-install tools to help lower energy use and reduce costs. Each kit is personalized based on your short online assessment and shipped right to your door. In addition, the Energy Waste Reduction Program offers rebates on appliances and HVAC systems. To learn more, visit algerdelta.com.

OFFICE HOURS Monday–Thursday 7 a.m.–5 p.m. (EST)

2

When it comes to electricity, we rarely think twice when we flip on a light switch, brew coffee in the morning, charge our phones, or adjust the thermostat. We simply expect the power to be there—and that’s how it should be because you are a member of Alger Delta Electric, and reliably powering your life is our mission.

Alger Delta is proud to be more than your electric provider. Because we’re a cooperative, we’re locally owned by you, the members we serve. That means every decision we make is guided by what’s best for our community—not by outside shareholders.

Thank you for trusting us to power your home and your life.

We’re committed to providing everyday value for you and your family, with reliable, affordable power—so you can make the most of every energy dollar.

4

algerdelta.com

4

SEPTEMBER 2026

/algerdeltaelectric

Gage Heim and his pig Frankenswine

Supporting Youth in Agriculture and

Feeding Our Community

Alger Delta Electric Cooperative is proud to support young farmers and strengthen our local food system. At the Junior Market Livestock Sale, held Aug. 22 at the Upper Peninsula State Fair, we purchased livestock raised by co-op member families. This annual event helps support the next generation of agriculturists and highlights the hard work and dedication of youth in our community.

To further the impact of this community-minded purchase, we are donating the processed meat by raffling off meat bundles to our members.

HOW TO ENTER: Please complete the entry form and mail it in an envelope postmarked no later than Sept. 25, 2026. The drawing will be held on Oct. 1, 2026, and winners will be notified by mail.

Alger Delta Electric is proud to give back in a way that both supports local youth and puts food on the tables of our members.

Enter to Win

$150 MEAT BUNDLE Name: Account No: Service Address: Phone: To enter, complete this form and place it in an envelope postmarked by Sept. 25, 2026.

Send to: Alger Delta Cooperative, 426 N. 9th St., Gladstone, MI 49837.

Winners will be notified by mail. Winners will need to arrange pickup from the processing plant in Hyde, Michigan.

Alger Delta Welcomes Kyle McKenzie Alger Delta is pleased to welcome Escanaba native Kyle McKenzie as the newest member of the Distribution Department. Kyle obtained his training at Southeast Lineman Training Center in Trenton, Georgia, and began working for the co-op on June 22 as an apprentice lineman. “I’m enjoying working for Alger Delta and so far, things have been going very well. I am really enjoying it,” he said. In his spare time, Kyle enjoys being outdoors, dirt bike riding, snowmobiling, and hunting.

General Manager Mike Furmanski is pleased to welcome Kyle to the cooperative. “As a native ‘Yooper,’ Kyle is familiar with our service territory and will be a great fit for the Alger Delta Electric team. We are pleased to have him on board,” he said.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

5

Cycling Amidst Fall’s Beauty The 53rd Apple Cider Century will take place in late September

By Chris Lewis

For most of his life, Bryan Volstorf has been an avid cyclist, as he’s participated in various century (100-mile) rides across the country.

His passion continued to increase throughout his 20s, ultimately leading him to create his own bicycle club and century ride in 1974.

A Surge in Popularity A member of the League of American Wheelmen, he was inspired by the organization’s numerous 100-mile routes. Seeking assistance from the organization, Volstorf sat down and thought about names for his upcoming century ride.

Interested in hosting the ride in Three Oaks, Michigan, in September, one name especially stood out to him, as it just “rolled off” his tongue: Apple Cider Century. The name simply made sense. Not only is Three

6

SEPTEMBER 2026

Oaks renowned for its cideries, but September is a popular time to visit.

said. “We eventually had 7,500 riders in the late 1980s and early 1990s.”

“I put little flyers out in different bike shops to promote it,” Volstorf said. “We ended up with 226 riders the first year.”

The ride’s popularity increased so much that Volstorf couldn’t have any more participants. After all, he wanted to feed and entertain everyone too, as he didn’t view Apple Cider Century as just a century ride.

It ultimately became a weekend full of entertainment, camaraderie, and lasting memories.

While planning the first-ever Apple Cider Century, he also focused on his own club, the Three Oaks Spokes Bicycle Club. A nonprofit, the club has expanded considerably over the years, as it now organizes several 15- to 40-mile rides each cycling season.

As the club steadily grew, so did Apple Cider Century—substantially. During its second year, the century ride had 500 participants. By the fourth year, it had 1,000 riders. From there, everything changed even more.

“In the late 1970s and early 1980s, Apple Cider Century was the United States’ number-one ride,” Volstorf

In fact, Volstorf believes his century ride stands out from most others for one key aspect—its wide array of amenities.

“We have an ice cream social, a spaghetti dinner, and tons of food stops,” Volstorf said. “We have everything you can think of. We don’t skip on anything and every participant gets their money’s worth.”

This year, the weekend festivities will begin on Saturday, Sept. 26.

Participants are welcomed to check in at St. Mary of the Assumption Church, prior to enjoying an ice cream social from 4 to 8 p.m. at Dewey Cannon Park.

On race day itself, participants will begin parking at the church at 5 a.m. If they haven’t done so yet, they can check in from 6 a.m. to 12 p.m., while also relishing an all-youcan-eat pancakes, eggs, and sausage breakfast. As a reflection of the Three Oaks community’s involvement, the breakfast is prepared and served by the Three Oaks Fire Department.

As has always been the case, participants can begin riding whenever they’d like. All 100-mile riders are advised to start by 10 a.m. though, and every participant must finish their ride by 7 p.m. Participants don’t need to ride for 100 miles either, as 15-, 25-, 50-, and 75-mile route options are available, too.

Furthermore, to fully complete the experience, every participant is welcomed to attend an all-you-caneat spaghetti dinner at St. Mary of the Assumption Church after the ride.

A salad bar, French bread, and fresh apple pie will be served as well.

“Because of our amenities, we don’t have to advertise,” Volstorf said. “It’s mostly word of mouth, which is the best advertising you can have.”

A Family Affair In addition to its food options, the Apple Cider Century has an outdoor band on Saturday evening, offering entertainment for all ages. While reflecting on the century ride’s steady popularity, Volstorf’s son, Tim, believes there is another key ingredient: It provides something for nearly everyone, whether a participant is in middle school or has been riding for 50 years.

the ride. And the average age—of all participants—was 45.

“We can’t wait for our 53rd ride, and we have some special milestones coming up, including the 55th and 60th anniversaries,” Bryan Volstorf added. “Our future is bright!”

For more information, scan the QR code or visit applecidercentury.com

“We let children 12 and under ride for free,” Tim Volstorf said. “They’ll receive a rider number and a packet. Everything they receive costs us money, but it doesn’t cost them a penny.”

This family atmosphere continues to attract riders from all across the United States.

Last year, roughly 200 children participated in

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

7

Energy-Efficient Heating and Cooling:

Comfort Meets Savings Upgrading existing heating and cooling equipment to energyefficient equipment is one of the most effective ways for Alger Delta members to reduce energy use while maintaining comfort in every season.

Modern high-efficiency systems are designed to provide consistent indoor temperatures, improved humidity control, and reliable performance while using less electricity than traditional equipment. This means homeowners can enjoy greater comfort while using less energy.

High-efficiency Central Air Conditioners

Heat Pumps

Efficient Circulation Pumps

Heat pump systems are an excellent option because they provide both heating and cooling in a single unit.

They move heat rather than generate it, making them significantly more efficient than many traditional systems. Whether replacing aging equipment or installing a ductless mini-split in a specific area of the home, heat pumps can help lower energy use while delivering even, dependable comfort year-round.

Smart Thermostats

High-efficiency central air conditioners can deliver measurable energy savings. New models cool homes more effectively, operate more quietly, and often include advanced features that improve temperature control and indoor comfort. Because they require less electricity to produce the same amount of cooling, customers may see lower energy bills while enjoying increased comfort at home during hot summer months.

If your home uses a hydronic heating system, an efficient circulation pump may be the right upgrade for you. These pumps are designed to move heated water more efficiently, reducing unnecessary electricity use while helping maintain consistent temperatures throughout the home.

Many models automatically adjust their speed to match heating demand, further improving efficiency.

Make your new heating and cooling system even more efficient by installing a new smart thermostat. Smart thermostats easily customize heating and cooling schedules based on your habits, resulting in lower energy use and a home that’s always comfortable.

Rebates from Alger Delta help reduce the upfront cost of these energysaving improvements, making it easier for customers to invest in equipment that provides longterm value. By choosing qualifying high-efficiency heating and cooling products, customers can lower electricity use, improve year-round comfort, and enjoy dependable performance for years to come.

Visit algerdelta.com/energywaste-reduction-rebatesresidential to apply and learn more about all the rebates available from Alger Delta.

ENERGY-EFFICIENT COMFORT FOR EVERY SEASON Reliable comfort, made easier with rebates.

Rebates available now for: • • •

A variety of heat pump systems High-efficiency central air conditioners Efficient circulation pumps

Alger Delta offers rebates on energy-efficient systems that can help offset the cost of qualifying upgrades. Now is a smart time to invest in comfort, efficiency, and long-term energy savings.

Fall into Comfort Fall into Savings

Scan the QR code to view eligible rebates or visit algerdelta.com/energy-waste-reduction-rebates-residential

MI CO-OP Photo Contest

ICONIC LANDMARKS 1. The iconic House of Ludington of Escanaba sign during its fire in December 2025.

Connie Lindstrom 2. The last standing sawmill silo on the Great Lakes, the Burner in Nahma, fell on April 19, 2019. It was a true landmark on Big Bay de Noc. Diane Pomeroy 3. Cross in the woods, Indian River.

Ivana Enright

1

2

4. Magical reflections over the Mighty Straits-Surveyors’ Outlook, Straits State Park.

Roger Dastick 5. Opera House, Fayette.

Kirsten Blackstock 6. Mount McKinley. Megan Webber 7. Fayette’s limestone bluff.

Kahla Osterhout 8. The Pickle Barrel House in Grand Marais, Michigan. Paul Petersen 9. Ford Motor Company sawmill, Pequaming, Michigan. Vicki Ray

3

4

5

Submit a photo & win a $50 energy bill credit!

6

7

Submit Your Photos & Win A Bill Credit! Alger Delta members whose photos we print in Michigan Country Lines during 2026 will be entered in a drawing. Four lucky members will win a $50 energy bill credit on their December 2026 bills!

Upcoming Photo Topics and Deadlines: Treasured Traditions, due Sept. 25 (Nov./Dec. issue)

8

9

To submit photos, go to http://bit.ly/countrylines.

We look forward to seeing your best photos!

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

9

MI CO-OP Kitchen

PIZZA

Slice into something delicious.

WINNING RECIPE!

BUFFALO CHICKEN FLATBREAD PIZZA Steve-Ann Van Wyk, Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op

1 large prebaked flatbread or pizza crust (12-14 inches) ½ cup prepared buffalo ranch dressing (or homemade, see below) 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese ½ cup cooked chicken, diced ¼ cup mild taco sauce (such as Old El Paso) Optional Toppings: • sliced black olives • crumbled blue cheese • Italian seasoning • garlic powder • crushed red pepper flakes Homemade Buffalo Ranch Dressing (optional): ½ cup ranch dressing ¼ cup buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Wings Sauce) 2 tablespoons mayonnaise Preheat the oven to 425°F. Place the flatbread on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Spread the buffalo ranch dressing evenly over the flatbread, then top with the shredded mozzarella cheese and diced chicken. Add the black olives and blue cheese, if desired. Season with the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper flakes, if using.

Drizzle the taco sauce over the top. Bake for 9–11 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the crust is golden brown. Slice and serve immediately. Note: To make the Homemade Buffalo Ranch Dressing, whisk together the ranch dressing, buffalo wing sauce, and mayonnaise until smooth.

Makes about 1 cup. Use ½ cup for the flatbread and refrigerate the remaining dressing for up to 1 week.

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

RECIPE CONTEST

Win a $100 energy bill credit!

Cozy Bowls, 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 2026

PIZZA PINWHEELS Phil Ehardt, Great Lakes Energy

Dough: 1½ cups warm water 1 tablespoon honey 2 tablespoons olive oil 4 teaspoons instant yeast 1½ teaspoons salt 3½–4 cups flour Filling: 2½–3 cups pizza sauce, divided 2 cups freshly shredded mozzarella cheese, divided 1 cup pepperoni, chopped, divided ¼–⅓ cup cornmeal ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a large rimmed baking sheet (about 12x18 inches) with parchment paper. In the bowl of a stand mixer

fitted with a dough hook (or in a large mixing bowl using a sturdy spoon), combine the warm water, honey, olive oil, yeast, salt, and 1 cup flour. With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the remaining flour until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl and forms a soft, smooth ball. Knead by mixer or by hand for 3–4 minutes, then cover and let the dough rest for 10–15 minutes. Divide the dough in half. On a lightly greased work surface, press one portion into a 14x10-inch rectangle. Spread ½–¾ cup pizza sauce evenly over the dough, then top with half of the mozzarella cheese and half of the pepperoni. Starting with one long side, roll the dough tightly into a log, pinching the seam to seal. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling. Place the cornmeal in a shallow bowl or dish. Slice each log into 1 inch pinwheels. Dip the bottom of each pinwheel into the cornmeal, then place about 1-inch apart on the prepared baking

APPLE PIZZA

Teresa Williams, Midwest Energy & Communications Crust: 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts), or homemade pastry for a double-crust 9-inch pie Filling: 7 cups baking apples, peeled and thinly sliced (such as Granny Smith or Gala) ½ cup sugar 1½ tablespoons lemon juice 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg Crumb Topping: ¾ cup all-purpose flour

DETROIT-STYLE PIZZA Cynthia Hodges, Ontonagon REA

Dough: 2½ cups (300 grams) bread flour 3 teaspoons (10 grams) kosher salt 1½ teaspoons (5 grams) instant yeast 1 cup lukewarm water • extra-virgin olive oil, for greasing the pan Sauce: 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 3 medium garlic cloves, minced 2 teaspoons dried oregano ⅛ teaspoon red pepper flakes 1 (28-ounce) can high-quality crushed tomatoes 1 teaspoon granulated garlic powder 1 teaspoon granulated onion powder 1 tablespoon sugar • kosher salt, to taste Toppings: 4 ounces thinly sliced pepperoni 12 ounces Wisconsin brick cheese, cut into ½-inch cubes (or 6 ounces mozzarella cheese and 6 ounces Monterey Jack cheese)

Combine the flour, kosher salt, yeast, and lukewarm water in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, or in a large mixing bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then let rest for 10 minutes. Knead by mixer or by hand for about 10 minutes, until smooth and slightly sticky. Cover and let rise in a warm place for about 2 hours, or until doubled in size. Lightly grease a 9x13-inch metal baking pan with olive oil. Transfer the dough to the pan and gently stretch it toward the edges. If the dough resists, let it rest for 30 minutes, then stretch again.

Cover and let rise for another 45 minutes.

Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes; cook for 30 seconds. Stir in the tomatoes, garlic powder, onion powder, and sugar. Simmer for about 30 minutes, then season with kosher salt to taste. Preheat the oven to 500°F. Press the dough gently to release any large air bubbles. Top evenly with the pepperoni, then the cheese, making sure some reaches the edges of the pan. Spoon the sauce over the cheese in three lengthwise stripes.

Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the cheese is

sheet. Sprinkle the tops evenly with the Parmesan cheese. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the pinwheels are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. Warm the remaining pizza sauce and serve alongside the pinwheels for dipping.

½ cup sugar ½ cup cold butter or margarine Preheat the oven to 450°F. Roll the pie dough to fit a large pizza pan or baking sheet and flute the edges as desired. In a large bowl, toss the apple slices with the lemon juice. Arrange the apples evenly over the prepared crust. In a small bowl, combine the ½ cup sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg, then sprinkle evenly over the apples.

In another bowl, cut the flour, remaining ½ cup sugar, and cold butter or margarine together until the mixture is crumbly. Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the apples. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the apples are tender. Cool completely before cutting into squares and serving.

melted and bubbly, and the crust is crisp and golden. Let cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 11

Highlights Of Alger Delta’s 87th Annual Meeting On June 17, Alger Delta celebrated its 87th Annual Meeting.

Approximately 400 cooperative members attended the event at the Island Resort Casino and Convention Center in Harris. The event included a dinner, guest speaker, business meeting, staff reports, and prize drawings.

Director Darryl Small opened the meeting with an invocation. After dinner was served, the business meeting was called to order

by Board President Jesse Betters. The topics covered included approval of meeting minutes, seating of elected directors, and presentation of the 2026 scholarship awards.

General Manager Mike Furmanski spoke next, providing an annual report and overview of Alger Delta operations and projects completed in the last year.

During the question-and-answer portion of the meeting, Manager Furmanski fielded questions regarding Alger Delta’s power source, office hours, the impact of potential data centers, and capital credits.

Special guest speaker Marty Fittante, CEO of InvestUP, spoke on development and growth in the U.P, local energy concerns, and future opportunities in the U.P. The meeting concluded with the awarding of prizes to those lucky members whose tickets were drawn.

12 SEPTEMBER 2026

Alger Delta Making a Difference in the Community Alger Delta Contributes to Tri-County Safe Harbor In collaboration with CoBank and WPPI Energy, Alger Delta Electric Cooperative recently made a $7,500 donation to TriCounty Safe Harbor. Tri-County Safe Harbor provides shelter and assistance for domestic and sexual assault survivors.

Services are free and confidential to men, women, and children. They are located in Escanaba, Michigan, with two outreach offices in Menominee and Manistique.

Pictured is Tri-County Safe Harbor Executive Director Liz Reed and General Manager Mike Furmanski.

Powell Township School In collaboration with CoBank and WPPI Energy, Alger Delta Electric Cooperative recently made a $7,500 donation to the Powell Township School for various energy efficiency projects. With this funding, the school plans to upgrade their existing domestic water heater and clothes washer and dryer.

They also plan to have a steam trap survey done to identify and repair a steam leak in their heating system. And finally, they would like to install insulating window blinds on the large glass block windows.

Pictured is Brett Niemi, senior energy services manager at WPPI Energy with Todd Boyton, Powell Township school superintendent

Notice to Members of Alger Delta Cooperative Case No. U-16589 2025 Renewable Energy Plan Annual Report Summary Michigan law required all Michigan electric utilities to get at least 15 percent of their power supply from renewable during 2025.

Under this requirement, Alger Delta Cooperative submitted an annual report to the MPSC regarding its Renewable Energy Plan. In 2025, Alger Delta acquired a total of 14,910 renewable energy credits for compliance. All credit transfers were directed through Alger Delta’s wholesale power supplier, WPPI Energy.

WPPI Energy 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.algerdelta.com or by request at any of the cooperative’s offices.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 13

FUELED

BY GRIT

PIPER BELL GOES PRO IN WOMEN’S MOTOCROSS RACING

By Abby Moran

T

he starting race gate rattles beneath Piper Bell’s front tire as motocross engines throttle around her. Beneath her helmet, the 17-year-old rider claps her gloves together, settling her adrenaline before the gate drops. While the atmosphere around her is electric with pre-race energy, Piper’s focus locks in on the start of the race, visualizing the packed first turn on the hot dirt racetrack.

“I try to keep myself calm and lock in mentally. I really focus and visualize,” Piper said about her racing strategy.

“The first is the start of the race, so I’ll focus on that. If you have a bad start, it will probably be a bad race.”

This mental fortitude was a practice Piper built over nearly a decade of motocross racing.

Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan-based Piper has dedicated her teenage years to conquering motocross racing and becoming a rider who is not just respected in the Midwest but is now competing across the nation on the professional women’s motocross (WMX) racing circuit.

14 SEPTEMBER 2026

Piper started riding dirtbikes at 8 years old and competed in her first race in Ontario, Canada, at 9. Although it started as a family hobby, as Piper continued racing, she got better, faster, and stronger. The turning point in her racing journey came when she competed in the Monster Energy AMA National Motocross Championship at Loretta Lynn’s ranch in Tennessee (known to racers as Loretta Lynn’s), considered the world’s largest amateur motocross race.

“I thought, let’s just give it a shot. If I can qualify, I’ll compete,” Piper said.

Qualifying for Loretta Lynn’s was a feat of endurance for then 11-year-old Piper. First, she had to finish high in an area qualifier, followed by a placement in a regional qualifier. The top 42 racers in each division are eligible to compete at Loretta Lynn’s.

“We had never experienced anything like that race environment before,” Piper said. “I thought it was so cool.

Once we knew I could compete on the national level, we started taking racing more seriously.”

Since then, Piper has qualified to compete in the renowned motocross championship for the past five years, placing sixth in her division over the past three years. Just after Loretta Lynn’s in 2025, Piper took on the Thor Mini O’s race in November, which featured some of the best motocross racers in the world.

She claimed a sixth-place finish, ensuring her place as a rising star in motocross racing.

“I just kept thinking, there’s a future here,” Piper said about the start of her racing career. “When I’m racing, and the other riders are faster, I just think about how much I want to get better. I love it so much.”

all maintenance on the bike, ensuring everything runs smoothly for both training and race days. Her mom, Kerry, is the backbone of support. Piper’s brother, Cole, also an aspiring racer, is there riding alongside his sister.

Most riders competing at Piper’s skill level live year-round at boardingschool-style elite racing centers, completing both their high school education and training at high intensity, often living away from their family members for most of the year.

The Bell family spends a lot of time watching other motocross racers, learning from great riders and

Piper has a more traditional high school experience, completing schoolwork online through Sault Area High School while balancing sports as a point guard on the varsity girls’ basketball team. While most other riders are training year-round, Piper’s training picks up after her basketball season ends. Around March, the Bell family, who are Cloverland Electric Cooperative members, packs their RV and travels down to motocross tracks for training in Florida and Georgia.

“When I’m racing, and the other riders are faster, I just think about how much I want to get better. I love it so much.”

reviewing race footage to pick up the small tweaks that can lead to big improvements in racing.

This summer, Piper will line up against the fastest women motocross riders in the country, chasing a starting gate she once only dreamed of reaching. After being recruited to join the WMX circuit, Piper will compete against some of the sport’s top riders, marking a major milestone in a journey that began as a family hobby nearly a decade ago. As she balances her rookie season on the professional circuit with her senior year of high school, Piper is already setting her sights higher, determined to continue climbing the ranks of women’s motocross.

“I want to be a top three pro-rider in the WMX,” Piper states.

With her goal to expand motocross training after her high school graduation, Piper has the dedication, athleticism, and grit to make that goal a reality.

The training is grueling. Combining endurance training with 100-degree heat on a dirt race track creates extreme conditions that demand every bit of stamina. The riders start with a warm-up stretch in the morning, followed by hours of motocross riding and an afternoon strength-training workout. While many riders train year-round at elite racing facilities, Piper has only a brief stretch each spring to prepare before the racing season begins.

This spring, Piper also trained at NXT LVL 101 in South Carolina, her first opportunity to receive official professional training before the WMX season began. The experience paid off quickly. Despite competing against women with significantly more racing experience and yearround training, Piper has already earned multiple top 10 finishes during her rookie professional season.

For the Bell family, Piper’s racing career is a family commitment. Her dad, Amos, is Piper’s trainer and handles

WMX motocross races stream Saturdays throughout the summer on Peacock. Watch recaps online or follow Piper’s racing journey on Instagram @Piper_bell_67.

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 15

The Quilted Life of Ruth Ann Berry hen Ruth Ann Berry bought her Fife Lake building on the corner of State and Main in 1998, in Fife Lake, Michigan, she could not have known all it would one day hold.

What had long been a pharmacy would gradually become home to her quilt shop and workshop, then adding a barber shop, and eventually also including her daughter’s coffee shop.

The historic building, dating back to the early 1900s, has a hard concrete foundation and three layers of old wood floors. It has endured by being both sturdy and adaptable.

In many ways, so has Berry.

Known in quilting circles as a “geometric quilter,” Berry has built a creative life on both tradition and

16 SEPTEMBER 2026

reinvention. Quilting has been part of her world for as long as she can remember. She comes from a long line of quilters, including her mother and grandmothers, women who made practical quilts from scraps to keep their families warm.

Berry grew up sewing on her grandmother’s treadle machine and a Singer Featherweight that belonged to her mother. That early foundation stayed with her, but Berry made it distinctly her own.

Finding Her Pattern Today, Berry is the owner of Quilter’s Clinic, a destination quilt shop in Fife Lake known for bold fabrics, striking kits, and Berry’s own patterns and books. She is the author of “Bargello Quilts in Motion,” “Braided Bargello,”

By Emily Haines Lloyd

“Simplified 3D Quilts,” and “Stunning 3D Quilts Simplified,” and she has created more than 50 quilt patterns distributed widely in the quilting world.

Her signature style leans into geometry and optical movement.

Bargello quilts first caught her attention because they looked dramatic and complex, but Berry quickly discovered they were more approachable than they appeared.

That balance between impressive and accessible became her calling card.

“Just when I think there isn’t anything new to do, here’s an idea,” Berry said.

“There’s always something around the corner.”

She began experimenting, sketching on graph paper, testing patterns, and writing down each step. Friends urged

her to submit her ideas to publishers.

Eventually, one design found a home, then another.

Again and again, her work returns to the same challenge: how to take something that looks difficult and make it feel doable.

Teaching the Joy of It That instinct to demystify quilting carries over into her teaching. In the studio above the shop, Berry leads classes for quilters of all experience levels. What she enjoys most is the moment when a student realizes something is easier than they feared.

“Don’t be afraid,” she tells her students. “That’s the biggest thing.”

Layer by Layer What keeps Berry going, even after decades of quilting, designing, and teaching, is the creative pull of what comes next. On her computer, there are often multiple designs open at once, each one asking to be solved.

Back in that old building in Fife Lake, those ideas keep taking shape. Like the structure itself, Berry’s life in quilting has been built layer by layer: on a solid base, with room to grow.

What she bought in 1998 was a building. What she built inside it is much like her quilts: beautifully imagined, carefully pieced together, and still surprising her after all these years.

Berry knows quilting can look intimidating, especially the dimensional, geometric work she creates. But she also knows encouragement matters.

She likes explaining a technique and hearing someone say, with surprise, that it is easier than they thought. For her, that moment of confidence is part of the reward.

A Language of Its Own Berry has taught on the road for more than a decade, traveling to guilds, shows, and retreats across the country and beyond, including England and France. One of the things she loves most is that quilting creates its own language. Even when language barriers pop up, makers understand one another through both pattern and process.

“The fun part is, even if you don’t speak French, you speak quilting,” Berry said.

THE QUILTER’S CLINIC 108 West State St. Fife Lake, MI 49633 231-879-4115 Quiltersclinic@gmail.com

Get Quilting!

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 17

Where In Michigan Is This?

MI CO-OP Guest Column

Recollections of a Bookworm Joan Blewett, a Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op member

Growing up in Ishpeming, my family never lived more than three blocks from Ishpeming’s Carnegie Library.

The library was the focal point of my life through grade school and high school, and I even worked there part time while going to Northern Michigan University.

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 2026 WINNER! Our Mystery Photo winner is Laura Hostetler, a Midwest Energy & Communications member who correctly identified the photo as the World’s Largest Cherry Pie in Charlevoix, Mich.

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

18 SEPTEMBER 2026

If you turned right upon entering the library, you would encounter the stairs leading to the children’s room. The wooden stairs are about 8 feet in width and were worn down in the middle from years of use.

Children would clatter down the stairs, a racket heard in most of the adult area. At some point, either patrons or a director had enough and the stairs were closed off and entrance to the children’s room was obtained through an outside entrance. The children’s room was located in what was once the basement. It was a pretty large space and when converted, it made for a wonderful children’s library.

Once inside, oh heaven, the stories that awaited.

I read all the Nancy Drew, all the Hardy Boys, Bobbsey Twins, Freddie the Pig (the adventures of a talking pig who walked on his hind legs).

There were several fairy tale books that went by color. “The Blue Fairy Tale Book,” “The Red Fairy Tale Book,” and a few others with a color in the title. I had to climb a ladder to reach them on a top shelf. No, not that kind of ladder that moved on a rail. A ladder like that in The Home Depot. And then there was every single horse book that I could

find. Horse stories about a boy and his horse (think The Black Stallion series) or a boy and his dog (think Big Red), and there were stories of a girl and her horse, never a girl with a dog. There was a nonfiction book called “Drinkers of the Wind” by Carl Raswan, written in the 1930s about his time with the Bedouins and their Arabian horses.

One time when I was probably 9 or 10 years old, I was on my knees inching along the floor, checking out the bottom shelves of the nonfiction so as not to miss anything, when I came across a book by Roy Chapman Andrews. I was flummoxed. There were authors who used their middle initials, but never, ever had I run across an author who used his middle name.

The book was about hunting for dinosaur fossils in Mongolia. Holy Moley! This screamed adventure!

And he was doing this in the 1920s when it really was an adventure.

Roy Chapman Andrews worked for the American Museum of Natural History in New York City and subsequently became its director in 1934. Holy Moley!

Ishpeming’s Carnegie Library, built with a grant from Andrew Carnegie, is but one of many Carnegie libraries in Michigan, the U.S., and the world. Opened in 1905, it stands in all its neoclassic sandstone glory, attracting local patrons and serving as another lasting tribute to the philanthropy of Andrew Carnegie. Holy Moley!

GUEST COLUMN Win $200 for stories published!

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

LOWER YOUR HEATING & COOLING COSTS. PERMANENTLY. Simply add a Well-Connect to your home.

HEAT FOR AS LOW AS

COOL FOR AS LOW AS

ALL WINTER

ALL SUMMER

$600

$50

WHY WELL-CONNECT?

TWICE AS EFFICIENT

INVENTED IN AND

AS AN AIR SOURCE HEAT PUMP

70° AIR

50° WATER

Leverages Your Existing Well

Already have a well? You're halfway there!

Well-Connect turns your well into a clean energy source.

MADE IN MICHIGAN

95° AIR

38° WATER

Quick Installation

Well-Connect is simply added to your existing heating system.

Hybrid Geothermal

The Most Efficient Dual Fuel System

EXISTING FURNACE

Unlike dual fuel air source systems, Well-Connect maintains 400% efficiency year-round, saving you much more money.

Financing available, plus a $2,250 rebate.

Coming Soon: Geothermal Subscription Program Geothermal Made Affordable

833-436-9355 wellconnectgeo.com

SCAN HERE TO LEARN MORE No Home Visit Required for a Free Estimate

/algerdeltaelectric

800-562-0950

OCTOBER IS

NATIONAL CO-OP MONTH

Electric cooperatives are not-for-profit, community-led utilities. Because we are a co-op, we can adapt to our local members’ needs, providing the programs and services you care about most.

That’s the power of co-op membership.