A Cub, A Dream, A Legacy: The Story of Dean Oswald’s Bear Ranch
By Allie Brawley | Photos by Abby MoranThis article was originally published in Cloverland Connections, September/October 2025.
When Dean Oswald was 6 years old, he and his...
When Business Took Flight: Runci’s Spiraling Entrance into Lowell History
By J. Joseph Mapes, a Midwest Energy & Communications member
My grandfather, C. H. Runciman, moved his small family (including my 1-year-old mother) to Lowell,...
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...
Power of Co-op Communities: From the REA to Today—the Enduring Power of Connection
When the Rural Electrification Act (REA) passed in 1936, it did more than bring electric lines to farms—it powered a movement. Built by neighbors...
Little Teacher, Big Lesson
Isn’t it amazing when kids teach you something you already know but haven’t bothered to practice? My 3-year-old grandson Lincoln schooled me recently. You...
Exploring Silver Lake Sand Dunes
Along the eastern shores of Lake Michigan lies an oasis in Oceana County where stunning sand dunes meet sparkling serene waters. The unique landscape...
Spanning the Mitten: Michigan’s Most Iconic Bridges
Michigan’s unique geography—with over 11,000 inland lakes, 120 major rivers, and borders on four Great Lakes—has made bridges essential to connecting people, peninsulas, and...
The Generational Dresses
By Sharon Libich, a Presque Isle Electric & Gas Co-op member
In 1978, I found my wedding dress in the pages of bridal magazines—a far...
From Capitol Hill to Co-op Storm Recovery: John Kran’s First Weeks at MECA
When John Kran stepped into his new role as president and CEO of the Michigan Electric Cooperative Association (MECA), he expected the usual whirlwind...
From Curiosity to Connection: My Electric Co-op Journey
By David Wahl
Eighteen months ago, I had no idea what an electric cooperative was—let alone how one could completely change my life. Now, I’m...
Pizza Recipes Due by June 1
Share your favorite “Pizza” recipe with us by June 1 and you could win a $100.00 credit on your electric bill. Plus, there’s more!
To...
