Sept 2026 Thumb

Thumb Electric Cooperative

September/October 2026

MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES

FUELED

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

Data Center Update

Reehl Attends Youth Tour

Centennial Farms Recognized

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

THUMB ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE 2231 Main Street Ubly, MI 48475-0157 1-800-327-0166 or 989-658-8571 E-mail: tec@tecmi.coop

BOARD OF DIRECTORS HURON COUNTY Randall Dhyse, Treasurer District 1 • 989-658-6013 Craig Osentoski, Director District 2 • 989-658-6003 Erica Weidman, Director District 3 • 989-658-6004 SANILAC COUNTY Kim Nunn, Vice President District 1 • 989-658-6005 Mike Briolat, Secretary District 2 • 989-658-6006 Scott Campbell, Director District 3 • 989-658-6007 TUSCOLA COUNTY Louis Wenzlaff, Director District 1 • 989-658-6008 Jonathan Findlay, President District 2 • 989-658-6010 Matt Sommer, Director District 3 • 989-658-6012 Brad Essenmacher, General Manager Marketing and Communications: Mitch Hirn, CCC, mhirn@tecmi.coop

PAYMENT STATIONS Huron County Bad Axe—Northstar Bank Pigeon—Northstar Bank Tuscola County Akron—Northstar Bank Caro—Northstar Bank Mayville—Mayville State Bank Millington—Mayville State Bank Thumb Electric Cooperative is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

HURON

The Co-op Way to Look at Data Center Growth

By Brad Essenmacher, General Manager

You’ve seen the headlines: Data centers are coming to the Midwest, and they need enormous amounts of electricity.

Some of you have asked me directly: What does this mean for us?

It’s a good question. Let me answer it plainly.

First, some background. As your electric cooperative, we have a legal obligation to serve new electric load in our service territory, whether it is a household, a farm, a factory, or a data center.

Sometimes, we actively pursue growth opportunities, as growth typically provides benefits to all. Other times, growth finds us, and that’s where our obligation to serve comes in. Regardless of the way growth happens, we decide how to responsibly serve the new load to ensure all members benefit and all risks are managed.

Not all data centers are alike. Some are ordinary commercial loads, such as a hospital’s server room or a local company’s IT operation. In fact, there are some of these very ordinary data centers on cooperative lines today. The largest facilities, known as “hyperscale” data centers, are different. A single hyperscale campus can use 40 times all the electricity TEC sells each year. Requests at this scale change the math for everything we do.

That is why we are proactively establishing a new process if one of these large loads seeks service from your cooperative. The process starts with a thorough application, including a significant application fee, and finishes with a unique long-term contract for that new load. The new load must pay their own way from start to finish, including the full cost of the power, infrastructure, and planning they require. This means that all costs created and sustained by that new load are paid for by that new load, not the households and businesses that we have served for nearly 90 years.

Finally, these new loads must provide benefit to you and our communities.

We have established high expectations and will hold new growth to meet them. Managed intentionally, responsibly, and for the long-term, new large loads share the cost of your cooperative across more sales, bring investment to the communities where our members live and work, and strengthen your cooperative overall.

Serving these new loads intentionally and responsibly is how we honor our obligation to serve, protect our existing members, and create value for all.

That’s the co-op way.

TUSCOLA

SANILAC

tecmi.coop

4

SEPTEMBER 2026

/thumbelectric

@thumbelectric

Reehl Represents TEC at Youth Tour

Notice to Members of Thumb Electric Cooperative

Kendyl Reehl from EPBP Lakers High School had the opportunity of a lifetime when she represented Thumb Electric Cooperative during the 2026 Electric Cooperative Youth Tour in Washington, D.C. She joined 17 other students from Michigan and nearly 2,000 delegates from across the nation for a week of leadership, learning, and connection.

While there, Kendyl was able to meet with Michigan legislators, visit multiple Smithsonian Institutions, and tour the National Mall. Additionally, Kendyl was selected as one of four Michigan delegates to participate in the Wreath Laying Ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery.

About the trip, Kendyl said, “The opportunity to be a delegate for Youth Tour is truly once in a lifetime. You get to experience the nation’s capital, make friends, and, as Bryn Lee-Hirta said, ‘You arrive as strangers, travel

Case No. U-17801: 2025 Renewable Energy Plan Annual Report Summary Michigan law (MPSC) required all Michigan electric utilities to get at least 15 percent of their power supply from renewable sources during 2025.

Under this requirement, Thumb Electric Cooperative submits an annual report to the MPSC regarding its Renewable Energy Plan. In 2025, Thumb Electric Cooperative acquired a total of 27,908 renewable energy credits. All credit transfers were directed through TEC’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.

as friends, and leave as a family.’ You truly do leave as a family. Thank you to Thumb Electric for making this trip possible for me!”

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.tecmi.coop or by request at any of the cooperative’s offices.

TEC is proud to have Kendyl represent our community and our cooperative values in the nation’s capital.

Congratulations, Kendyl!

Stay Alert Around Power Lines

Tips for a Safer Harvest: • WATCH FOR POWER LINES. Be extra cautious when raising augers or grain truck beds near them.

• USE A SPOTTER. Have someone guide you when operating large machinery near lines—but they should never touch the equipment while it’s moving.

• LOWER EXTENSIONS BEFORE TRANSPORT. Keep ladders, augers, poles, and rods down to avoid contact.

• STAY GROUNDED. Never try to move or raise a power line—call the utility.

• AVOID METAL TOOLS INSIDE BINS. Metal conducts electricity, especially when damp.

• HIRE QUALIFIED ELECTRICIANS. Only trained professionals should work on your farm’s electrical systems.

• IF EQUIPMENT TOUCHES A POWER LINE, STAY INSIDE UNLESS THERE’S A FIRE. If you must exit, jump clear with both feet together and hop away without touching the machine and ground at the same time.

• YOUR ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE CARES ABOUT YOUR SAFETY. With proper awareness and precautions, you can help ensure a safe and productive harvest season.

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 energy-efficient equipment is one of the most effective ways for Thumb Electric Cooperative 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 Thumb Electric Cooperative help reduce the upfront cost of these energy-saving improvements, making it easier for customers to invest in equipment that provides long-term 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 tecmi.coop/rebates-programs to apply and learn more about all the rebates available from Thumb Electric Cooperative.

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

Thumb Electric Cooperative 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 tecmi.coop/rebates-programs

MI CO-OP Photo Contest

ICONIC LANDMARKS MOST VOTES

2

1

3

1. M OST VOTES So BIG! Annette Decker 2. Mackinac Bridge at sunset. Ona Warchuck 3. Half Dome from Glacier Point, Yosemite.

Robert Daniels 4. Made for adventure.

Rachel Hubbard

4

Enter for a chance to win a $50 energy bill credit!

Submit Your Treasured Traditions Photos by Sept. 25! Submit your best photo and encourage friends to vote! The photo with the most votes will be featured in Country Lines, along with other favorites, in the Nov./Dec. issue.

Enter Your Photos and Win a Bill Credit! To enter the contest, visit tecmi.coop/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 2026, you will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win one of four $50 credits on your December 2026 bill.

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

LARGE LOAD GROWTH IN MICHIGAN | WHAT YOUR CO-OP IS DOING ABOUT IT

AN OBLIGATION TO SERVE. A RESPONSIBILITY TO SERVE YOU WISELY. THE OBLIGATION

01 WE HAVE A DUTY TO SERVE Electric cooperatives are legally required to serve all new electric growth in their territory—homes, businesses, and data centers alike. That has been true since the day the lights first came on.

HOMES

BUSINESSES

DATA CENTERS

THE SCALE

02 NOT ALL DATA CENTERS ARE ALIKE “Data center” covers everything from a hospital’s server room to a hyperscaler that draws more power than a small city. The bigger the request, the more planning it requires.

SMALL/LOCAL

Supports local businesses, schools, hospitals, government services, or internet connectivity. Power needs are often similar to other commercial loads.

GRID IMPACT

Low

ENTERPRISE/COLOCATION

Supports company operations or provides shared space where multiple organizations house servers and equipment. Can require significant power and dedicated infrastructure depending on size.

GRID IMPACT

Medium

AI/HYPERSCALE

Supports large-scale cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and major technology platforms. Can require major new power supply, transmission, and grid-level planning.

GRID IMPACT

High

ONE HYPERSCALER CAN USE

40X

THE ELECTRICITY TEC SELLS IN A YEAR That’s why TEC established clear safeguards for serving any large new load.

Across Michigan, data centers and other large energy users are asking to connect to the grid.

Your cooperative is taking proactive steps to be ready for any request that comes our way and to evaluate it the right way: by asking tough questions, protecting existing members, and making sure any new growth creates meaningful benefits for the members and communities we serve.

THE SAFEGUARDS

03 LARGE LOADS PAY THEIR OWN WAY Large loads can require major investments in power supply, transmission, and local distribution. Our new proactive safeguards, including a large load tariff and application process, make sure those costs are assigned to the load that creates them, not shifted to existing members.

FORMAL APPLICATION

A formal process with an application and fee to cover the time and resources needed to evaluate the request.

UPFRONT PAYMENTS

Required study and system costs are paid by the new load, not existing members.

LONG-TERM CONTRACTS

Binding commitments that match the life of the investment.

STRICT CREDIT REQUIREMENTS

Credit support, collateral, or other security ensures the project can meet its obligations.

WHY IT MATTERS

Each safeguard exists for one reason: meeting our obligation to serve without shifting costs or risk onto existing members.

THE STANDARD

04 GROWTH THAT GIVES BACK

New growth should create meaningful benefits for the members and communities we serve, today and tomorrow. Managed responsibly, large loads strengthen:

THE COOPERATIVE

A stronger system serving every member on the lines.

MEMBER-CONSUMERS More sales sharing the cost of the system we all use.

LOCAL COMMUNITY

Investment & opportunity where our members live and work.

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

Raise Energy-Smart Kids Teaching children good energy habits not only lowers your electric bill today—it helps them build smart habits that can last a lifetime.

Start With Safety

Build Everyday Energy Habits

Make electrical safety the first lesson.

Simple daily routines can make a big difference.

• Secure cords so appliances and lamps can’t be pulled down.

• Turn off lights and ceiling fans when leaving a room.

• Install outlet covers and safety plugs for young children.

• Power down TVs, computers, and gaming systems when they’re not being used.

• Teach kids never to put objects into electrical outlets.

• Keep refrigerator doors closed—look quickly, then close the door while deciding what to grab.

• Show them to unplug devices by holding the plug—not pulling the cord.

• Close exterior doors to keep heated or cooled air inside.

• Stay away from downed power lines and all electrical equipment.

• Use less hot water by:

• Keep electricity away from water when playing outdoors.

-

Turning off the faucet while washing dishes.

Taking shorter showers.

Avoiding overfilling the bathtub.

Learn From Your Electric Bill

Make Saving Energy A Game

Your monthly bill can be a great teaching tool.

Turn conservation into a family challenge.

• Show older children how to find energy use in kilowatt-hours (kWh).

• Reward the family if monthly energy use is lower than the previous month or the same month last year.

• Explain how using less electricity can save money.

• Talk about budgeting and how saving on utilities can help pay for family fun.

• Have everyone guess the monthly kilowatthour usage.

• Let the winner choose family movie night or another fun reward.

• Use the money saved on electricity for treats like mini golf, ice cream, or a family outing.

Small habits today can lead to big savings tomorrow— and help raise a generation of energy-smart adults.

16 SEPTEMBER 2026

Thumb Electric Members Celebrate Milestones

Certified Centennial Farms JOHN AND ANGELINE MCDONALD FARM Certification Date: 3/31/2026 Founding Date: 5/15/1923 Current Owner: Ronald and Mary McDonald, John McDonald, Robert McDonald Location: MacDonald Road, Port Hope, in Bloomfield Township

Thumb Electric congratulates members who received state certification.

Over the past year, we have had the privilege of presenting Thumb Electric Cooperative members with recognition from the Historical Society of Michigan through its Centennial Farm Program.

Since 1948, the program has recognized more than 6,000 farms for ownership in the same family for more than 100 years. Farms can currently qualify in one of two categories: Centennial Farm, which means the same family has run a farm for 100 years or more, and Sesquicentennial Farm, which means a farm has been in a family for 150 years or more.

All of us at Thumb Electric congratulate these family farms for their longevity and wish the families many more years in the farm industry.

MARY WOYCIK FARM Certification Date: 3/9/2026 Founding Date: 12/30/1920 Current Owner: Sally Drossos Location: Helena Road, Ruth, in Paris Township JACOB AND NELLIE NAVOCK FARM Certification Date: 4/7/2026 Founding Date: 11/24/1925 Current Owner: Jerome Navock Location: Grindstone Road, Port Austin, in Port Austin Township JOHN Y. BROWN FARM Certification Date: 9/18/2025 Founding Date: 7/12/1919 Current Owner: Joseph and Pamela Marchand, Jerome Navock Location: Cleland Road, Cass City, in Greenleaf Township

Certified Sesquicentennial Farm ALEXANDER SOULE FARM Certification Date: 4/1/1999 Founding Date: 10/7/1857 Current Owner: McKenzie Farms LLC Location: Charleston Road, Ubly, in Austin Township

If you are interested in applying for farm certification, please contact us. Applications are available at our Ubly office. You can also get one by calling the Michigan Centennial Farm program at 517-324-1828 or by visiting centennialfarms.org.

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

Thumb Electric Cooperative tecmi.coop facebook.com/thumbelectric

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.