HomeWorks Tri-County 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
2026 Director Election Info Apply For Youth Tour Or A College Scholarship! Co-op Retires Capital Credits To Members
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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/
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CO-OP REBATE INCENTIVES
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$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
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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
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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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Cybersecurity Is A Team Sport:
We’re Safer When We Work Together By Chris O’Neill, President/CEO OSCEOLA
CLARE
MECOSTA ISABELLA
MONTCALM GRATIOT
IONIA
BARRY
SAGINAW
CLINTON
EATON
INGHAM
JACKSON
Portland office/Mail payments to: 7973 E. Grand River Ave. Portland, MI 48875 Open 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Monday–Friday Blanchard office: 3681 Costabella Ave. Blanchard, MI 49310 Open 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Monday–Friday Night deposit box available at both locations. Electric bill/account questions: 517-647-7554 or 1-800-562-8232 Pay by phone, anytime: 1-844-963-2875 Service questions/outages: 517-647-7554 or 1-800-848-9333 (24 hours for emergency calls) Tri-County Propane: 1-877-574-2740 HomeWorks Connect 1-800-668-8413 BOARD OF DIRECTORS District 1 — John Lord, Vice-Chairman 2276 Plains Rd., Leslie, MI 49251 517-974-2518 • jlord@homeworks.org District 2 — Jim Stebbins 7139 Peddler Lake Rd., Clarksville, MI 48815 517-930-8132 • jstebbins@homeworks.org District 3 — Luke Pohl, Chairman 15560 W. Hanses Rd., Westphalia, MI 48894 989-292-0427 • lpohl@homeworks.org District 4 — Jake Borton 7543 E. Edgar Rd., Vestaburg, MI 48891 989-506-3404 • jborton@homeworks.org District 5 — Theresa Sopocy 6996 E. Wilson Rd., Bannister, MI 48807 989-292-0295 • tsopocy@homeworks.org District 6 — Dave Livermore 8060 W. Airline Rd., Weidman, MI 48893 989-289-3019 • dlivermore@homeworks.org District 7 — Shirley Sprague, Secretary-Treasurer 15563 45th Ave., Barryton, MI 49305 989-382-7535 • ssprague@homeworks.org Editor: Charly Markwart, CCC cmarkwart@homeworks.org
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JANUARY 2026
At HomeWorks Tri-County Electric Cooperative, we understand that our members are busy. You’ve got a lot on your plate. The last thing you need to worry about is the security of your utility account. However, with the rising threat of phishing attacks targeting customers of America’s electric utilities and telecoms, we also know that your personal information could be at risk. That’s why we’re working to add another layer of account security to keep your data safe. Phishing attacks are a sneaky way for cybercriminals to trick you into revealing sensitive information, like your login credentials or financial details. These are not system breaches or applications being hacked, but rather social engineering attempts. Cybercriminals might send fraudulent emails or texts that look legitimate, hoping you’ll click on a malicious link or give them the information they want, such as login credentials. That’s where HomeWorks comes in. To combat the threat of phishing attacks, we’re introducing an extra layer of protection for your SmartHub account: Two-Factor Authentication (2FA). 2FA will allow us to satisfy our commitment to protecting your account while giving you the trusted confidence of secure transactions. With 2FA, you’ll know your account is much safer from unauthorized access. It’s simple: You’ll enter a unique code sent to your phone or email in addition to your usual login details. This makes it much harder for cybercriminals to get into your account, even if they somehow manage to get your password. Take control of your SmartHub account security and enroll in 2FA today! Visit HomeWorks.org/smarthub to get started. We’re always working on our end to protect your account information, and we’re asking you to stay vigilant, as well! Don’t click on links or give out personal information in response to emails or texts you weren’t expecting. If you have any questions or concerns about phishing or 2FA, our customer support team is always here to help.
Notice to Members of HomeWorks Tri-County Electric Cooperative— Data Privacy Policy The HomeWorks Tri-County Electric Cooperative Board of Directors has adopted a 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 HomeWorks.org. If you would like a hard copy of the Data Privacy Policy, please call our office at 800-562-8232.
homeworks.org
/homeworks.org
tricoenergy@homeworks.org
Did You Notice A Capital Credit On Your December Bill? Capital credits represent your equity in the Co-op you own. Since we’re not-for-profit, our rates are cost-based. Any margins, or profits, that we earn are allocated to our members and returned to you as our board of directors deems our financial strength will allow. When we retire capital credits, they are typically returned to you as a bill credit. The amount of your credit is based on your patronage, or purchase of electricity, during a specified time period. In October 2025, our board of directors authorized a $1 million capital credit retirement to be made to our membership in December 2025. Members who purchased energy from HomeWorks in 1992, 1993, and/or 2024 received the capital credit. If you qualified to receive the refund, your portion of the $1 million capital credit retirement should show as a bill credit on your December 2025 electric bill.
Capital credits are just one more benefit of being a Co-op member.
credits that have been allocated to you during your HomeWorks membership. This full amount is not payable at this time and does not represent cash; it is your equity share in our Co-op. Please remember to notify us of any future address changes; this will allow us to forward payments when the capital credits are refunded for the year(s) of your membership.
If you look at the message center box of your December bill, you will also see the total amount of unretired capital
Tri-County Propane • Superior reliability • Same great HomeWorks service • Capped winter rates with no hidden fees • Metered service option • Auto-fill service available • Budget billing option
Qualified New Customers: Use Code COMFORT For A $200 Credit* This service is not regulated by the Michigan Public Service Commission.
CALL 877-574-2740 TODAY! *limited-time offer
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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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! HomeWorks Tri-County 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 mecacoop.wufoo.com/forms/m9oidbn1frpuwd/ HomeWorks.org facebook.com/homeworks.org
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JANUARY 2026
MI CO-OP Snap Shot
SEASONAL BEAUTY MOST VOTES
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1. MOST VOTES Nature’s beauty. Vicki Robinson, Weidman 2. Sunset through the trees. Patti Warner, Rodney 3. An early snowfall held up soybean harvest. Debra Cook, Mt. Pleasant 4. Summer beauty. Angela Jennings, Evart 5. The calm after the storm. Allie Strong, Mt. Pleasant 6. Fall peace. Kurt Faust, Stanwood 7. Early autumn. Karmen Nash, Hubbardston 8. Fall reflections. Shelby Nadeau, Lakeview 9. Shimmering autumn. Sue Langley, Lake 10. Lake Michigan in October. Katherine Behrenwald, Lakeview
Enter to win a $100 energy bill credit! Submit Your “Sunrise to Sunset” Photos By Jan. 25! Each month, HomeWorks members are able to submit photos on our website for our photo contest. The photo receiving the most votes is published here, along with some other selections from that month. Our March theme is “Sunrise to Sunset.” Photos can be submitted through Jan. 25 to be featured in our March issue. To enter the contest, visit HomeWorks.org/photocontest. Enter your picture, cast your vote, and encourage others to vote for you, too. If your photo is published in Country Lines during 2026, you will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win one of four $100 credits on your December 2026 HomeWorks bill!
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Our 2025 winners are: Glenda Adams of Evart, Sandi Barber of Lakeview, Mary Koster of Morley, and Cynthia Watson of Portland.
MICHIGAN COUNTRY LINES
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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
2026 HomeWorks Board Elections
Districts 2 And 4 To Hold Director Elections This Year HomeWorks members in districts 2 and 4 will carry out one of the most important duties of a cooperative’s membership this year when they elect a director to represent them on the Co-op board. In District 2, current director Jim Stebbins of Clarksville has announced that he will seek re-election for another threeyear term. Director Stebbins has served on the board since 2017. In District 4, current director Jake Borton of Vestaburg has also indicated that he will be seeking re-election this year. Director Borton was elected to the board in 2023. Members in districts 2 and 4 who are interested in running for their district’s director position should contact their district’s nominating committee by Feb. 5. Candidates may also be nominated via a petition signed by at least 25 members within their district. Petitions must be turned in to the nominating committee by Feb. 20. District 2 includes members in Barry and Ionia counties. District 4 is comprised of members in Montcalm County, except Bloomer, Crystal, and Evergreen townships, which are part of District 5.
Interested In Seeking A Board Seat? The job of a HomeWorks board member is to help set policies and make decisions that guide the direction of the Cooperative, while effectively representing the members of his or her district. Directors are expected to attend regular monthly and other special meetings of the board or committees of the board, along with relevant state and national association meetings and director training programs. They are also expected to study data and other information presented to the board in order to stay fully informed on matters affecting the Co-op. If you are a member of district 2 or 4 and you are interested in running for a HomeWorks board seat this year, Article VII, Section 2 of the Cooperative’s bylaws (available at HomeWorks.org) states that you must be an individual member of the Co-op in good standing, at least 21 years old, residing in the district which you are to represent, and a U.S. citizen. To become or remain a director, the bylaws state the candidate must have the capacity to enter into legally binding contracts; comply with standards of conduct as laid out in the bylaws; and meet all reasonable conflict of interest qualifications found in Article VII, Section 3. Also, a candidate shall not have been convicted of or pled guilty to a felony or misdemeanor crime involving issues of moral character within the 10 years immediately prior to becoming a director.
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Jim Stebbins — District 2
Jake Borton — District 4
The nominating committee in each district consists of the district’s officers, elected by members at the district meeting held in the previous May. Each committee is required by the Co-op’s bylaws to nominate at least one candidate on or before Feb. 5. Names of nominees will be posted at the Cooperative’s offices and at HomeWorks.org by Feb. 28.
If you meet these qualifications and would like to be nominated for the district 2 or 4 board seat, contact your district nominating committee, listed on this page, or call HomeWorks Tri-County Electric at 517-647-1272 to request a nominating petition.
Election Timeline Feb. 5 Nominating committee submits candidate names to Co-op Feb. 15 Candidate credentials reviewed, names posted at Co-op Feb. 20 Nominations by petition (25 signatures) due at Co-op Feb. 28 Final candidate list posted at Co-op Early April Paper ballots and electronic voting instructions mailed in Michigan Country Lines magazine to members in election districts
Who Makes Up District Nominating Committees? District 2:
District 4:
Bennie Morros (Ionia), Chair 231-736-3312 benniemorros@yahoo.com
Lisa Johnson (Lakeview), Chair 231-598-8083 lisainamble@gmail.com
Nathan Smith (Portland), Vice Chair
Catherine Killinger (Lakeview), Vice Chair
Kristine Ceasar (Portland), Secretary
Elaine Rossman (Lakeview), Secretary
Your Board In Action Meeting in Blanchard on Oct. 27, 2025, your board of directors:
Meeting in Portland on Nov. 24, 2025, your board of directors:
• Reviewed the 2025 forecasted financial statements for the Co-op’s subsidiary, Tri-Co Services, Inc., and declared a $500,000 dividend from Tri-Co Services to HomeWorks Tri-County Electric Cooperative.
• Reviewed and approved the proposed 2026 capital and operating budgets of both HomeWorks Tri-County Electric Cooperative and HomeWorks Connect.
• Unanimously voted to authorize a $1 million capital credit retirement to the membership, contingent upon the $500,000 dividend from the Co-op’s subsidiary, Tri-Co Services, Inc. • Reviewed and approved the proposed 2026 capital and operating budget for Tri-Co Services, Inc. • Reviewed and approved Board Policy 103: Compensation and Benefits for Directors, as revised. • Authorized additional capital of $200,000 to accelerate the Co-op’s Advanced Metering Infrastructure project. • Learned there were 109 new members in September.
• Approved the write-off of accounts receivable totaling $98,798 for 2024. • Reviewed and approved Board Policy 107 – Director Attendance at Meetings, as revised. • Learned there were 101 new members in October. Time Set Aside for Members to Comment Before Cooperative Board Meetings The first 15 minutes of every board meeting are available for members who wish to address the board of directors on any subject. The next meetings are scheduled for 9 a.m. on Jan. 26 and 9 a.m. on Feb. 23 at Portland. Members who wish to have items considered on the board agenda should call 517-647-7554 at least a week in advance of the meeting.
Helping Our Neighbors In Need Meeting remotely on Nov. 4, our People Fund board made three grants totaling $7,500, including: • $5,000 to Feeding America in Kentwood, to provide food for mobile food pantries; • $1,500 to the Friends of Jesus Fund in Ionia, to provide rent and utility assistance to clients in need; and • $1,000 to a Mecosta County family, to help them purchase a new door for their home.
How to Apply for a Tri-County Electric People Fund Grant The Tri-County Electric People Fund provides grants to individuals and organizations in the Co-op’s service area for food, shelter, clothing, health, and other humane needs, or for programs or services that benefit a significant segment of a community. Write to 7973 E. Grand River Ave., Portland, MI 48875 for an application form and grant guidelines, or visit the People Fund page at HomeWorks.org. Note: Applications must be received by Jan. 20 for the January meeting or by March 3 for the March meeting.
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T A TH E GR E
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ASE H C R EA A RACE WITH HISTORY AND HEART By Emily Haines Lloyd
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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.
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Fiber Internet vs. 5G Wireless Internet vs. Starlink Internet:
The Key Differences And Why Fiber Reigns Supreme To help you navigate the bewildering world of internet technologies, let’s break down the key differences between the three most commonly talked about technologies and explain why fiber internet, such as HomeWorks Connect’s reliable fiber internet network, is the clear winner for most users. FIBER INTERNET
5G WIRELESS INTERNET
STARLINK SATELLITE INTERNET
Fiber internet is the fastest and most reliable internet technology available today. It uses light signals to transmit data through tiny glass tubes at incredible speeds over long distances, which makes it great for remote locations.
5G is a wireless cellular technology that offers faster internet speeds than traditional technologies like DSL. While 5G providers claim to reach speeds up to 1 Gbps, it’s generally slower and less reliable than fiber internet, with speeds between 100300 Mbps. 5G speeds can fluctuate drastically due to network congestion, distance from the cell tower, and environmental factors such as weather, trees, or the construction of buildings (which might not even be near your home), impacting the quality of service you’re receiving.
The last commonly considered internet option is Starlink, the brand name of a satellite internet service operated by SpaceX. Starlink offers internet access to remote areas not typically served by traditional broadband.
The physical cables required for this technology are sturdy and flexible, which makes them unaffected by weather or interference. This makes fiber an extremely reliable internet connection. Fiber offers symmetrical speeds, meaning you can download and upload at the same high speed. It can handle multiple devices and provides low latency, making it perfect for streaming, gaming, and video conferencing. With nearly unlimited bandwidth, fiber ensures a smooth and efficient internet connection directly to your home.
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Starlink uses a network of low-Earth orbit satellites to provide internet connectivity to users. However, Starlink’s performance can be affected by weather conditions and geographical location. While it offers a potential solution for rural areas, its speeds, latency, and reliability may not match the performance of fiber internet.
Let’s briefly review and summarize why fiber internet is far and away your best choice for high-speed internet: 1. High Speeds: Fiber internet provides the fastest and most consistent speeds available, especially for upload-heavy activities like video conferencing, online gaming, or content creation. 2. Reliability: Fiber’s cables are durable, flexible, and not subject to interference from objects like buildings or trees. 3. U nlimited Bandwidth: Fiber can handle more devices from more users and heavier internet traffic simultaneously for streaming TV and movies, video calling, gaming, and other common online activities than 5G or Starlink. 4. L ow Latency: Fiber offers the lowest latency, which is crucial for real-time applications like gaming, video conferencing, and voice-over-internet calls. Neither 5G nor Starlink can match the ultra-low latency of fiber. In short, fiber is the gold standard of reliable, high-speed internet. Should you have any questions or if you would like to learn more about how fiber can make life online more pleasant for your family or business, feel free to reach out to us by calling 800-668-8413 or emailing us at internet@homeworks.org!
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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!
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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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