We have one focus when a storm hits: keep our co-workers and communities safe. That includes taking a close look at our system and making a restoration plan that puts first responders, hospitals, and the most at-risk customers at the top of our to-do list.
Last week’s ice storm – the largest to impact Northern Michigan in over 100 years – was no exception. As they did throughout Northern Michigan, crews put Indian River’s most vulnerable at the top of their restoration list.
While this is standard procedure, Indian River resident Vicki Morgan saw the work we were doing as an act of heroism — and wanted to show her gratitude. That’s where the Indian Lake Golf Club comes in.
A Silver Lining Following a Dark Storm
The storm had devastating effects on the community, and Vicki knew the importance of providing
a space for those on the frontlines to catch their breaths and enjoy a free, hot free meal. So, with the help of its staff and members, Vicki turned the club into a makeshift resting spot for utility crews, forestry crews and first responders.
“I have a great team here,” said Morgan, who works at the golf club and got choked up while greeting all the people entering. “We decided we needed to help Consumers Energy as they helped us. … Grace comes in different shapes and sizes. You surround yourself with good people, and a little bit rubs off on you.”
The Power of Community
Morgan said the Indian River community always comes together during a crisis. Whether it’s to help a family through tragedy or show up for one another after Mother Nature wreaks havoc, togetherness is the backbone of the tightknit town.
“We wanted to get guys out of their trucks,” she said. “So, our members initiated and paid for all the food we have tonight. The staff is making (the food), and some of them are volunteering to be here and provide linemen with a good meal and some camaraderie with our community, too.”
Morgan added everyone was gracious and appreciative for the dinner.
“I think they’re happy to get out, sit in a nice chair and come to a nice place, use an indoor bathroom and not an outhouse,” she said. “Be able to wash your hands, do those kinds of things.”
She also helped set up a command center at the Indian River Chamber of Commerce to give crew leaders a spacious area to plan for restoration efforts.
Morgan said the acts of heroism she saw before, during, and after the storm will give her enough memories to last a lifetime.
“Bringing folks together and making this all come together is exactly what people do here every day,” she said. “From our library to our police and fire trucks, to our township supervisors and their team, they really, really did come together.”
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