Cherryland Electric Cooperative
January 2026
MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES
T A E R T H E G CHASE R A B E A RACE WITH HISTORY AND HEART
When Life Hands You Lemons Make Lemonade The Kids Are Gonna Be Alright
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. 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 Berrien Springs WaterFurnace Michiana (269) 473-5667 gogreenmichgeothermal.com Big Rapids Stratz Htg & Clg, Inc. (231) 796-3717 stratzgeocomfort.com Cadillac Wilder Htg & Clg (231) 645-4822 Wilderheatingandcooling.com Filion/Bad Axe Air-O-Dynamic Htg & Clg (989) 582-0137 aod-hvac.com Gaylord Family Plmb & Htg (989) 732-8099 familyplumbingandheating.com
Grand Rapids Bel Aire Htg & Clg 1-888-235-2473 belaire.com
Mt Pleasant Walton Htg & Clg (989) 772-4822 waltonheating.com
Three Rivers Bel Aire Htg & Clg 1-888-235-2473 belaire.com
Hart Adams Htg & Clg (231) 873-2665 adamsgeothermal-mi.com
Muskegon TMC Mechanical LLC (231) 865-1114 www.tmcmechanicalllc.com
Traverse City Geofurnace Htg & Clg (231) 943-1000 geofurnace.com
Holland G.H.P. Systems Inc. (616) 396-5833 ghpsystems-inc.com Indian River M&M Plmb & Htg (231) 238-7201 mm-plumbing.com Lansing Candor Mechanical (517) 920-0890 candormechanical.com Michigan Center Comfort 1/Aire Serv of Southern Michigan (517) 764-1500 airserv.com/southern-michigan/
WaterFurnace is a registered trademark of WaterFurnace International, Inc.
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 Sunfield Mark Woodman Plmb & Htg (517) 886-1138 mwphonline.com
visit us at waterfurnace.com
MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES
Contents countrylines.com
January 2026 Vol. 46, No. 1 /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.
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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: Gabe Schneider, Cherryland Electric Cooperative, chairman; Shaun Lamp, Great Lakes Energy Cooperative, vice-chairman; Mike Furmanski, Alger Delta Cooperative Electric Association, secretary-treasurer; John Kran, president and CEO.
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MI CO-OP Community
6 MICHIGAN’S MAJESTIC CASTLES
CONTACT US/LETTERS TO EDITOR: Michigan Country Lines 201 Townsend St., Suite 900 Lansing, MI 48933 248-534-7358 editor@countrylines.com CHANGE OF ADDRESS: Please notify your electric cooperative. See page 4 for contact information. The appearance of advertising does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services advertised.
MICHIGAN’S ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES
RECIPE CONTEST
See details on page 10. Rice Dishes, due Feb. 1; Salads with a Twist, due March 1. Win a $100 bill credit!
GUEST COLUMN
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
Architectural Wonders That Are Rooted in History and Inspired by Imagination.
10 MI CO-OP KITCHEN
Veggie-Loaded Comfort Foods: Wholesome. Hearty. Veggie-Filled.
14 THE GREAT BEAR CHASE:
A RACE WITH HISTORY AND HEART How This Beloved Event Unites Community, Welcomes the World, and Celebrates the Keweenaw Peninsula’s Winter Magic.
18 GUEST COLUMN
When Business Took Flight: Runci’s Spiraling Entrance into Lowell History.
MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES
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When Life Hands You Lemons By Rachel Johnson, Cherryland CEO 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 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.
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JANUARY 2026
You’ve probably heard the saying, “When life gives you lemons, make lemonade.” Well, Cherryland has just been handed a bushel of lemons in the form of a new state energy waste reduction (EWR) mandate. Passed in 2023, this new law goes into effect in 2026 and requires your cooperative to offer rebates for energy efficiency savings equivalent to 1.5% of our previous year’s sales. Let me start by saying that we fully support energy efficiency. In fact, we’ve offered innovative, member-driven energy programs for decades. When done right, energy efficiency saves members money and lightens the load on the grid. But when it comes as a onesize-fits-all mandate, it hits a sour note with me. Mandates are expensive and limit our ability to adapt our programs to the unique needs of our members. We know this from experience; we were under a similar mandate from 2008–2021. During that time, we spent about $350,000 per year on rebates and administrative costs to meet the mandate. When that mandate ended, we kept offering rebates but adapted them based on feedback from you all about what you wanted us to offer. We also saved on administrative costs. Unfortunately, the mandate is back, the targets are higher, and we have less flexibility with what we can count toward those targets. Hitting those higher targets costs more money—both in rebates and in the behind-the-scenes work required to measure, track, and
report every kilowatt-hour saved. Some of the savings are real; some aren’t. But the cost of tracking and adhering to narrowly defined rules is real. While we absorbed those costs in our operating budget historically, that’s just no longer feasible. We are estimating that the new mandate will cost our members more than $1 million annually. Beginning this month, you’ll notice a new line item on your bill: the EWR surcharge (it will appear on your bill as MI PA 229-2023 Compliance). This charge funds the efficiency programs the state requires us to offer. Adding this charge to your bill provides transparency to you on the cost of this mandate. It also holds us accountable to deliver results as cost-effectively as possible. It’s designed as a flexible charge that can be decreased if our program costs come in under budget. That way, we only collect what’s necessary to meet the mandate. And you have my word that we will do everything in our power to meet the mandate in the most cost-effective way possible. So, that’s the lemon. But, we’re not giving up on making some lemonade. Our team spent the last year evaluating how best to meet this mandate and, more importantly, how best to serve our members. They’re rolling out programs and tools designed to make sure you get real value for the surcharge you’re paying. You can read more about those opportunities in the column alongside mine.
To hear more, listen to the Co-op Energy Talk Podcast
Make Lemonade By Courtney Doyle, Communications and Member Relations Manager
While lemons definitely get top billing in the tasty beverage’s title, it’s only a fraction of what actually goes into making a good batch of lemonade. You need a reliable base to blend all the flavors, a little sugar to make it sweet, and maybe a touch of something extra to make it your own. Cherry lemonade, anyone? If this energy waste reduction (EWR) mandate is the lemon, the programs we put in place will be what makes it lemonade for our members. And your team at Cherryland wants to make sure you have the best lemonade on the market.
Here’s our recipe: • Energy Efficiency Rebates: This is the foundation of almost all energy waste reduction programs. It’s the water that blends a good batch of lemonade together. It’s a necessity. While access to rebates on energy efficiency measures isn’t new for our members, we’re adding new tools to make applying for a rebate easypeasy-lemon-squeezy. Our new online marketplace is stocked with prequalified purchases and we’re adding a few new rebates to the mix including smart thermostats, advanced power strips, and AC tune-ups. • Personalized Home Energy Savings Kits: We’re stirring in a little sugar with a new program that customizes energy saving opportunities based on what works best for your home. Members
cherrylandelectric.coop
can now fill out a quick online home energy assessment, and we’ll send a personalized energy savings kit right to your doorstep. To sweeten the deal— we made it free! • Additional Support for Income-Qualified Members: Every batch of lemonade tastes a little better when you make it your own, and around here that means adding a few cherries. We’re expanding our low-income community solar program and offering additional support for the members who need it most in partnership with Northwest Michigan Community Action Agency (NMCAA). At the end of the day, our goal is simple: Comply with the law as affordably as possible, while making sure we’re providing programs that bring value to our members. This new EWR mandate may have handed us the lemons, but our members inspired the lemonade. As we roll out these new and improved programs, we invite you to take a sip: Take advantage of the rebates available to you, try out an at-home energy assessment, or learn more about how we can help make homes safer and more efficient for income-qualified families. Together, let’s prove that when life hands Cherryland lemons, we make something even better—cherry lemonade.
/cherrylandelectriccoop
“ T his new EWR mandate may have handed us the lemons, but our members inspired the lemonade.” @cherrylandec
MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES
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DISCOVERING MICHIGAN’S MAGIC Cassondra Wanders Adventure Series
Michigan’s Majestic Castles Michigan is home to several stunning castles, each with unique architectural beauty and an equally compelling history, making them fascinating attractions and destinations to explore. These historical landmarks offer a glimpse into the past, showcasing the state’s rich cultural heritage and European architectural influence.
Curwood Castle
Henderson Castle
100 Monroe St., Kalamazoo, MI 49006
5052 M-66 North, Charlevoix, MI 49720
Step into a fairytale romance at Curwood Castle, a public museum and tourist attraction operated by the Owosso Historical Commission. It was constructed in 1922 by author James Oliver Curwood, who styled it after a French Normandy chateau.
The jewel of Kalamazoo is Henderson Castle, a mansion built in 1895 for Frank and Mary Henderson, owners of the Henderson-Ames Company. As a boutique bed & breakfast and event venue, visitors are welcome to dine, unwind, and stay overnight.
Curwood Castle features two turrets, a slate-covered gable roof, and sprightly yellow stucco walls speckled with fieldstones. Situated in a serene setting along the Shiawassee River, the property is part of Curwood Castle Park, which also includes Comstock Cabin and Woodard Paymaster Building.
This 25-room home was constructed in a late Victorian/Queen Anne style, with seven baths and an elevator. The castle’s exterior is a combination of brick and Lake Superior sandstone. It currently boasts a rooftop hot tub, finedining restaurant, spa, and vineyard.
Wander through the whimsical Castle Farms estate in Charlevoix. Developed as a dairy farm in 1918 by Albert Loeb, president of Sears, Roebuck & Co., this world-class property is modeled after the stone castles found in Normandy, France, and serves as a museum, event venue, and wedding site.
Curwood used the castle to entertain guests and as a writing studio until his passing in 1927. In his will, he bequeathed the building to the city of Owosso.
Henderson Castle has a unique draw for not only architecture enthusiasts but also those interested in its supernatural side. The site has attracted attention for alleged hauntings and paranormal activity; it is one of the most talked-about places for ghost stories in Michigan. After Frank’s death in 1899, Henderson Castle changed hands several times. Over the years, the building was also used as a private residence and apartments.
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Castle Farms
224 Curwood Castle Dr., Owosso, MI 48867
JANUARY 2026
Over the decades, Castle Farms has changed ownership and purpose. At its peak, the farm maintained over 200 prize-winning Holstein-Friesian cattle and dozens of Belgian draft horses. For 20 years, Castle Farms also served as a premier concert venue, hosting familiar headliners such as REO Speedwagon, Tina Turner, and Bon Jovi. In addition to its original agricultural purpose, the castle-like atmosphere holds an enchanting experience. In the 2000s, the estate underwent major restoration and a reimagination of the grounds and gardens, incorporating an enchanted forest, a model train track, a hedge maze, and reflection pools. Museum collections include WWI-era items and a Sears Roebuck element featuring items from its historic catalog.
Scan the QR code to watch a video of Cassondra’s adventures to historic castles of Michigan.
From the shores of Lake Charlevoix to the streets of Saginaw and Kalamazoo, Michigan’s castles stand as testaments to imagination, craftsmanship, and community pride. Each structure tells a story—of visionaries who dared to dream big, of eras when elegance met industry, and of modern caretakers who continue to preserve that magic for generations to come.
Castle Museum
Canterbury Castle
500 Federal Ave., Saginaw, MI 48607
2359 Joslyn Court, Lake Orion, MI 48360
The Castle Museum of Saginaw County History is a local history museum with a very distinct appearance. It houses over 150,000 artifacts and highlights the cultural significance and stories of the people who make up the Saginaw region. Some major themes include: early Indigenous Anishinabek, the fur trade, the lumbering era, the Industrial Age, and the Saginaw County Sports Hall of Fame.
Royalty meets rustic at Olde World Canterbury Village in Lake Orion. This fairytale wedding venue, banquet facility, and themed village complex was developed in 1991 by the Stan Aldridge family.
Originally constructed as a U.S. Post Office in 1898, it is now operated by the Historical Society of Saginaw County. Through community efforts and historical advocacy movements, the Castle Museum was rescued from demolition in the 1930s, and eventually, in 1979, the Historical Society began preserving the building as a museum. The building is characterized by its notable French Renaissance chateau-style architecture. Exhibits provide a comprehensive narrative of the Saginaw region from precolonial times through the lumber boom, industrial enterprises, and modern manufacturing.
The village grounds are framed in a fantasy olde-world Tudor castle aesthetic, with turret structures and cobblestone paths. It hosts familyfriendly and themed events, from holiday celebrations to medieval feasts and Harry Potter dinners. In 1916, William E. Scripps began a large agricultural undertaking known as Wildwood Farm. He raised award-winning Aberdeen Angus cattle, swine, sheep, and poultry and also established a dairy operation and stables. Many of the historic farm buildings, barns, and cottages were converted into the modern-day specialty shops and retail spaces within Canterbury Village.
Whether you’re drawn by architectural grandeur, local history, or the promise of a fairytale escape, these castles invite you to explore Michigan through a more enchanted lens. Step inside their storied walls, wander their gardens, and experience the majesty that proves you don’t have to cross an ocean to find a little old-world charm—it’s right here in the heart of the Great Lakes State.
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
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CO-OP NEWS Serve On Cherryland’s Board Any qualified Cherryland member can be elected to serve a three-year term on the cooperative’s board of directors. Two directors will be elected at this year’s Annual Meeting, including one at-large director and one Leelanau County director. To be nominated in 2026, candidates may file a petition with the cooperative’s executive administrative assistant starting the first day of March until 4 p.m. on the last business day of March. To receive a nominating petition, please fill out the board candidate interest form on our website. Review Article III of the co-op’s bylaws on our website for more information regarding board nominations and the election process.
Cherryland Offers Four Scholarships Cherryland offers four scholarships—three worth $4,000 for high school seniors and one adult scholarship (post-high school) for $2,000. Applications for both scholarships are available on our website. The deadline for applications is Friday, April 3.
Cherryland Accepting Youth Tour Applications Until Jan. 11 High school sophomores and juniors from Cherryland’s service territory are invited to join the Electric Cooperative Youth Tour: a once-in-a-lifetime, allexpenses-paid leadership travel opportunity to Washington, D.C., in June. Applications must be submitted by Sunday, Jan. 11. For more information and to apply, visit cooperativeyouthtour.com.
Rebates Changing In 2026 2026 brings changes to Cherryland’s current rebate program offerings, including the discontinuation of rebates for electric vehicles. For all up-todate rebate information, visit cherrylandelectric.coop/rebates. If you have questions regarding rebates, visit our website or contact Tammy Haworth at 231-486-9261 or thaworth@cherrylandelectric.coop.
Streetlight Outage Reporting Report streetlight outages without having to locate those pesky street signs! Cherryland has launched a streetlight reporting tool on our website. This tool lets members easily report streetlight outages using an interactive map. You can find the tool on the website at cherrylandelectric.coop/outage.
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JANUARY 2026
SAVE MONEY WITH A FREE CUSTOMIZED ENERGY KIT Simple upgrades. Big savings. Yours at no cost.
What if saving money on your energy bill was as easy as answering a few quick questions? Now it is! Cherryland Electric Cooperative is 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.
What’s Inside?* SMART THERMOSTAT Comfort control that saves energy
DOOR WEATHER STRIPPING Seal in comfort, keep drafts out
SHOWER OPTIMIZERS & FAUCET AERATORS Use less hot water, same great pressure
WATER HEATER PIPE INSULATOR Reduce heat loss, lower costs *Kits are customized based on responses. All items may not be included in all kits.
ACT NOW! Kits are limited; complete your online assessment today! Scan the QR code to access the assessment or visit https://mecacoop.wufoo.com/forms/m1lg0bn20v5s1n6/
MI CO-OP Kitchen
VEGGIE-LOADED COMFORT FOODS Wholesome. Hearty. Veggie-Filled.
WINNING RECIPE!
BUTTERNUT SQUASH, KALE & WHITE BEAN SOUP Bradley Villeneuve, Cherryland Electric Cooperative
1 tablespoon oil 1 medium yellow onion, peeled and finely chopped 2–3 celery ribs, finely chopped 5-6 garlic cloves, minced ½ teaspoon chili flakes 1 pound butternut squash, peeled and cubed ½ teaspoon dried thyme 1 (15-ounce) can Great Northern beans, rinsed & drained 4 cups chopped kale 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth) 2 cups water ½ teaspoon smoked paprika 1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper ⅓ cup half and half 1 teaspoon dried sage (or 1 tablespoon fresh) ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese • toasted pumpkin seeds, for topping In a large pot, add the oil over medium heat. Add the onion and celery and sauté in the pot until soft. Add the garlic, chili flakes, butternut squash, and thyme. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the beans, kale, broth, water, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir and bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for 25 minutes, until squash is tender. Add half and half, sage, and Parmesan. Stir together. Taste and adjust seasonings as desired. Serve into bowls and top with toasted pumpkin seeds. Watch a video of this month’s winning recipe at micoopkitchen.com/videos
RECIPE CONTEST
Win a $100 energy bill credit!
Rice Dishes, due Feb. 1; Salads with a Twist, due March 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.
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VEGGIE CHILI
Jeannine Anderson, Presque Isle 4 tablespoons oil 1 large onion, chopped 1 large green pepper, chopped 1 cup carrots, peeled and chopped 16 ounces mushrooms, finely chopped 1 (23-ounce) can tomato soup 1 (23-ounce) can diced tomatoes, including liquid 1 teaspoon paprika
⅛ teaspoon cayenne (or more to taste) 1 bay leaf 2 tablespoons chili powder 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 teaspoons salt 1 (29-ounce) can dark red kidney beans, including liquid
Heat oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the onion, green pepper, carrots, and mushrooms. Cook until softened, stirring frequently. Stir in all remaining ingredients. Bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally. If the chili is too thick, add a little water; if it’s too thin, simmer uncovered to reduce. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
BEST MUSHROOM VEGETABLE BAKED ZITI Cynthia Hodges, Ontonagon
¾ pound ziti noodles 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for greasing 1 cup diced onion ½ cup diced green bell pepper 16 ounces baby portobello mushrooms 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 teaspoon ground oregano 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce 1½ teaspoons salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper 1 cup cottage cheese (or ricotta if preferred) ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided 8 ounces grated mozzarella/ provolone cheese blend, divided 6 cups quality marinara sauce, divided (store bought is fine) 10 basil leaves, torn
Preheat oven to 375 F. Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking pan with olive oil. Cook ziti noodles to al dente according to package directions. Drain and reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and green pepper; sauté until soft, about 5 minutes. Finely chop mushrooms in a food processor, then add to the skillet. Cook until most of the moisture evaporates, stirring frequently. Add garlic, oregano, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Cook until the garlic is fragrant, about 1 minute. Remove from heat and set aside. In a mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese, ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, and 3 tablespoons of the shredded mozzarella/provolone blend. Stir until well combined. Return cooked pasta to the pot. Add half the marinara sauce and the reserved cooking water; stir to coat the pasta evenly. Fold in the cheese mixture. Spread a thin layer of the remaining marinara sauce on the bottom of the prepared pan. Add half the pasta mixture, then spoon the mushroom mixture evenly over it. Top with half of the remaining mozzarella/provolone cheese. Layer the rest of the pasta, then spread the remaining sauce on top. Sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella/provolone and Parmesan cheeses. Bake uncovered for 30 minutes, until hot and bubbly. Let rest for 15 minutes before serving. Garnish with torn basil leaves.
FABULOUS CAJUN CORN ON THE COB Deb Finedell, Great Lakes Energy
4 ears of corn, husked and silked 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning ½ teaspoon smoked paprika ½ teaspoon garlic powder ½ teaspoon onion powder ¼ teaspoon salt
⅛ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 2 tablespoons mayonnaise 1 tablespoon sour cream 1 tablespoon lime juice • chopped parsley or cilantro, for garnish
Preheat oven to 425 F or preheat grill for direct heat. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Brush evenly onto the corn. Oven: Wrap each ear in foil and bake for 30 minutes. Grill: Place corn on the grill (wrapped in foil or directly on grates), turning every 3–5 minutes, for 10–15 minutes, until lightly charred and tender. While the corn is cooking, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, and lime juice in a small bowl. Brush the creamy lime sauce onto the cooked corn. Garnish with parsley or cilantro. Serve warm.
MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 11
The Kids Are Gonna Be Alright:
Lessons from the 2024 Youth Tour By Bailey Watson
Have you ever had that moment when you are sitting at your airport gate ahead of your flight, and you watch a few adults try to wrangle a group of teenagers hopped up on excitement and $10 worth of airport candy? In June 2024, one of those adults doing the wrangling was Kristen Hartley, member experience specialist at Cherryland Electric Cooperative. The kids she was wrangling? The 2024 Michigan Youth Tour delegates headed on the trip of a lifetime to Washington, D.C. Every June, cooperatives from across the country send high school sophomores and juniors as student delegates to Washington, D.C., funded by their cooperatives as an investment in future leaders. In Washington, D.C., they learn about cooperatives, the government, and our nation’s history. From the Capitol steps to monuments and museums, they see it all. “Co-ops tend to serve the more rural parts of the country, so many of the delegates had not been out of the state or even been on a plane before,” said Hartley. This trip is truly an experience of a lifetime, offering the opportunity to do and see things that others normally wouldn’t. At Arlington National Cemetery, some delegates were honored to participate in the wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. They visited Ford Theatre, where President Lincoln was assassinated, and rode the elevator to the top of the Washington Monument.
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They even got to meet with Michigan congressional representatives and watch a vote on the Senate floor. They experienced the moments that built our country while also going through experiences that would build them. Hartley recounts, “I was sitting at the commissary chatting with one of the delegates, and she was telling me how she likes to draw and paint, but she had never been to an art
“ T hey were so mature and supportive of each other; they really wanted to learn about everything. But what impressed me most was how they all seemed to watch out for each other.” museum. Later that day, she got to visit the National Portrait Gallery as her very first art museum; the look on her face told me it wouldn’t be her last.” The sightseeing and experiences during this trip are incredible; however, the authentic “moments of awe,” as Hartley put it, were watching the student grow. Hartley said, “The thing students gain most from this trip is confidence.” Not only can they safely travel without mom and dad, but they are also given opportunities to choose their path and engage in ways that may push their limits. They get to meet delegates from all 50 states. In fact, all delegates have pins to trade that they use to initiate conversations, encouraging them to talk to each other when they meet on the street, pushing them to not just stick within their bubble but learn how to start a conversation and explore. At the culmination of their week, new skills were tested as those interested gave speeches explaining why they should represent the group at NRECA’s Youth Leadership Council. It’s a true honor voted on and supported by those peers they have spent the week getting to know. Through the week of monuments, museums, and humidity, these high school students gain valuable life experiences, connections, and confidence. “They were so mature and supportive of each other; they really wanted to learn about everything. But what impressed me most was how they all seemed to watch out for each other,” said Hartley.
Youth Tour is an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C., for high school cooperative members. What it really becomes? A transformative experience in which students learn from new places and people about themselves and each other. Watching these delegates invest in themselves and our country can make us hopeful for the future. Hartley said it best, “The group really made me feel like the kids are gonna be alright.”
Learn more or apply for 2026 Youth Tour: cooperativeyouthtour.com
MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 13
T A TH E GR E
B
ASE H C R EA A RACE WITH HISTORY AND HEART By Emily Haines Lloyd
W
hen the sun rises over Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula in March, hundreds of skiers gather on the Swedetown Trails in Calumet for one of the Midwest’s most beloved cross-country ski races: the Great Bear Chase. Now entering its 45th year, the race has grown from a local favorite into one of the region’s largest and most spirited ski events, drawing participants from across the country and even around the world. Race director Angela Luskin says that’s exactly what makes it special. “Last year, 67% of our racers came from outside Michigan,” Luskin said. “We had participants from Montana, Florida, Utah, Maine, and even other countries. But the appeal is that Great Bear Chase still feels like a small-town race. That community vibe is what keeps people coming back.”
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The 2026 race will be held on March 7, continuing a tradition that began in 1981 when local skiers Rick Oikarinen and Bob Gregg launched the event to celebrate the Keweenaw’s pristine trails and hardy outdoor spirit. While the race has expanded with new distances, sponsors, and participants, Luskin says its foundation has remained the same: powered by volunteers, fueled by local pride, and dedicated to supporting the Swedetown Trails that make it possible.
“Everything about this race reflects the community,” Luskin said. “From our posters to the copper bear paw trophies made by local artists to the wooden ski awards handcrafted by area woodworkers, it’s all local talent.”
COMMUNITY ROOTS AND COOPERATIVE SPIRIT
“This is the major annual fundraiser for the trails,” Luskin said. “People come year-round to hike, bike, snowshoe, and ski. The money we raise helps keep them beautiful and accessible for everyone.”
Each year, more than 100 volunteers help make the Great Bear Chase possible. Calumet Schools open their gymnasium doors for the post-race banquet, local businesses donate prizes and funds, and two area bakeries prepare the famous pasty lunch that awaits every skier at the finish line.
Proceeds from the race directly benefit the Swedetown Trails, funding grooming equipment, accessibility improvements, and chalet maintenance.
A RACE WITH HEART Though the Great Bear Chase is known for its world-class trails and strong competition, it’s the atmosphere that skiers talk about most.
“THAT COMMUNITY VIBE IS WHAT KEEPS PEOPLE COMING BACK.”
LOOKING AHEAD “Our racers are different from those at some of the larger events,” Luskin said. “They love that the volunteers are smiling, the lunch is homemade, and the whole event feels like a community party.” That warmth stands out even more when paired with the rugged beauty of the Keweenaw Peninsula. “It’s the perfect place for an event like this,” she said. “You get world-class trails, stunning scenery, and a community that truly embraces the outdoors.” The race has also become an important economic driver for the region. The 2025 event drew more than 800 participants and generated nearly $800,000 in local economic impact through lodging, dining, and recreation spending. “That’s huge for a small rural area,” Luskin said. “It helps our local businesses thrive through the winter season.”
As the race approaches its fifth decade, Luskin and her team are focused on balance—continuing to grow while preserving the event’s authenticity. “We always ask, how can we make the race even better while keeping that community feel?” she said. “We want to maintain a high-caliber event that draws people from all over but never lose sight of what makes it special.” After all, in the Keweenaw, winter isn’t something to endure—it’s something to celebrate. And each March, as skiers glide across the finish line, the Great Bear Chase continues to prove that when a community comes together, the results are nothing short of extraordinary. To learn more, visit greatbearchase.com.
MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 15
Board In Action October 2025 • The cooperative’s chief financial officer presented the proposed 2026 capital budget. • The board of directors heard updates on the facility planning process regarding Garfield Township’s rezoning process. • The chief executive officer shared developments regarding Cherryland’s power supply portfolio. The cooperative’s power supplier, Wolverine Power Supply Cooperative, has invested in a new wind farm development and anticipates the Palisades Nuclear Power Plant to restart as planned in the coming months.
November 2025 • The board of directors approved the cooperative’s capital budget. • The chief financial officer presented the proposed 2026 operating budget. • The board of directors approved updates to their indemnification policy, election policies, and board travel policies during their annual policy review.
Notice to Members of Data Privacy Policy The Cherryland Electric Cooperative Board of Directors has an adopted policy governing the collection, use, and disclosure of member account information and usage data. A full copy of the Data Privacy Policy can be found at: cherrylandelectric.coop/wp-content/ uploads/2019/11/Member-Data-Privacy-Tariff.pdf. If you would like a hard copy of the Data Privacy Policy, call our office at 231-486-9200 or email us at cec@cherrylandelectric.coop.
2025
Photo Contest Winner! Congrats to Mary Kovacs for winning the 2025 bill credit! She submitted this photo titled “Melody strikes a chord” for the Musical Moments photo contest last February!
16 JANUARY 2026
MI CO-OP Photo Contest
SEASONAL BEAUTY MOST VOTES
1. MOST VOTES Sue Rehmann—“The barn in the blaze of autumn” 2. Andrea Kissel—“Snowflake” 3. Nanette Merica—“Watercolors” 4. Kayla Morrison—“Sunny skies & butterflies” 5. Karen Wierenga— “Crisp waterfall days” 6. Peter Zimmerman— “Morning glory!”
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Enter to win up to $200 off your energy bill!
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Submit Your “Sunrise to Sunset” Photos By Jan. 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 January theme is Sunrise to Sunset! Photos can be submitted through Jan. 25 to be featured in our March 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 2026, you will be entered to win a credit of up to $200 on your December 2026 bill.
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MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES 17
MI CO-OP Guest Column
Where In Michigan Is This?
When Business Took Flight:
Runci’s Spiraling Entrance into Lowell History By J. Joseph Mapes, a Midwest Energy & Communications member MYSTERY PHOTO Win a $100 energy bill credit! Identify the correct location of the photo above by Jan. 25 and be entered into a drawing to win a $100 electric bill credit. Enter your guess at countrylines.com/community.
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025 WINNER! Our Mystery Photo winner is Rainer Reichert, a Cherryland Energy Cooperative member who correctly identified the photo as the Shay Logging Locomotive in Cadillac, Michigan. Winners are announced in the following issues of Country Lines: January, March, May, July/August, September, and November/December.
18 JANUARY 2026
My grandfather, C. H. Runciman, moved his small family (including my 1-year-old mother) to Lowell, Michigan, in 1917 after purchasing the Jakeway Elevator at age 27. He had previously been superintendent of Grosse Ile Township Schools (you could advance quickly in those days). Being new to the business, but also a skilled salesman, “Runci” (as he was often called, and also “C.H.”) sought ways to market his business. In 1918, what better way to do so than to hire a local World War I pilot, Charles Stocking, and fly him to a nearby farmer’s land in Parnell. The purpose was for Runci to make an offer on the bean crop at the Cam Herreran farm. To add a little more excitement and attention to this sales call, the pilot made a spiraling drop before landing in the field. It was pretty exhilarating, especially for my grandfather! The result? Farmers came from miles around to see this spectacle and to get to know Runci, which led to doing business with him. It worked, as he remained in business for around 50 years. He was also a community leader known as “Mr. Lowell” and received many local and state accolades over the decades. As his only grandson, for decades, I have had the desire to emulate his voluntary contributions to the community. As best as I can calculate, I have achieved about 10% of his accomplishments. At age 81, I am going to have to live a lot longer to do better!
GUEST COLUMN Win $200 for stories published!
Share your fondest memories and stories. Win $200 for stories published. Visit countrylines.com/community to submit.
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How will you
MAKE YOUR MARK? JUNE 14–20, 2026
An all-expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C. What Is Youth Tour?
How To Apply
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Explore Washington, D.C., through historic monuments, world-class museums, and visits with elected officials.
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Applicants must be between the ages of 15–17 years old on June 12, 2026.
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Build leadership skills and discover how you can make your mark on the future.
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You and your parents or guardian must be served by Cherryland Electric Cooperative.
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Connect with students from across the country and form friendships that last a lifetime, all sponsored by your Michigan electric cooperative.
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Apply now: Scan the QR code below or visit cooperativeyouthtour.com!
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Application deadline is Jan. 11, 2026.
Learn more: cooperativeyouthtour.com mi.coop.youth.tour
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