By: Sean Hickey
Visitors to Pellston are greeted by a sign proclaiming that it’s the “Ice Box of the Nation”. While temperatures may be cold, hearts in this village of 822 residents are as warm as you’ll find. Nowhere is that more evident than at the Pellston General Store.
Recently, Pellston and communities across the Northern Lower Peninsula have been rocked by ice storms. Many areas received over an inch of ice, followed by high winds. As a result, much of Northern Michigan was hammered by power outages. Several counties reported up to 90% of residents without power.
When over 100 Consumers Energy restoration crews arrived in the tiny village and visited the Pellston General Store, they were told, “It’s on us.” when they tried to make a purchase. Hot food. Coffee. Snacks. Whatever they needed.
According to Andy Snider, Consumers Energy’s Executive Director of Electrical Operations, “When we arrived and set up our command center, there was no electricity, no water and no food available. This establishment really opened its doors to help our crews out.” Snider continued, “The support they’ve offered our crews has helped us to expedite restoration. When we don’t have to travel long distances to get food, it saves valuable hours and minutes in our restoration efforts. The Pellston General Store really shows how small communities band together to help everyone out.” Finally, he offered, “And the food’s great by the way – we highly recommend it!
The Pellston General Store doesn’t even have a roadside sign promoting the business. This fits their unassuming, caring personality. Nate Hendricks, Store Director said, “These crews are away from their families helping us get back in business and getting everyone’s power back. We want to pay it forward.” That’s a community member you can count on.
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