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Boyne Citizen anniversary party
Readers are invited to “Celebrate the End of the News Desert” and join the Boyne Citizen for free coffee and pastries in honor of our first anniversary. Please join us this morning (Thursday) from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 4, in the Community Room of the Boyne District Library. Meet our board members, Editor Jim Baumann, our new Associate Editor Annie Doyle, and some of our freelance writers. We’ll even give everyone who attends an “I’m a Boyne Citizen” sticker for you to stick on your car, shirt, or computer.
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Inside this issue...
- Annie Doyle named associate editor of Boyne Citizen
- Celebrate Boyne Citizen’s anniversary today!
- County balks at funding for BC-Charlevoix trail
- Trail mostly funded by grants - not county funds
- Good Neighbors Food Pantry marks 10th anniversary
- Concord Academy hires 5 new staff members
- Save the date for City Candidates Forum Sept. 29
- Trees are being trimmed near the airport
- Lavender Hill plans 5K run, classes and more
- Universally-accessible trail to Lake Michigan opens
- Rambler football, soccer, volleyball open at home
- Nemecek joins state Association of Mayors board
- Bryan Martin concert to benefit Fire Department
- Our Night Sky: We just witnessed a supernova
- Patrick McCleary history: one of our first teachers
- News briefs, Obituaries, and Municipal News
- Thanks to the donors who keep the news coming!
- Music and entertainment listings
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The Boyne Citizen board met with Annie Doyle last week to finalize employment details. Front row from left: Editor Jim Baumann, Associate Editor Annie Doyle. Back row from left: Board members Jamie Baumann, Hugh Conklin, and Michelle Cortright.
Award-winning journalist Annie Doyle named associate editor of Boyne Citizen
The Boyne Citizen is proud to welcome Annie Doyle as its new associate editor. Doyle is an award-winning journalist whose reporting has appeared in USA Today, the Detroit Free Press and numerous newspapers across Michigan.
Readers in Northern Michigan may already know her work from the Charlevoix Courier and Petoskey News-Review, where she covered local government, politics, and human-interest stories. Over the past six years, she has reported for Gannett, one of the nation’s largest corporate media chains, with her byline also regularly appearing in the Petoskey News-Review, Cheboygan Tribune, Gaylord Herald Times, and Sault Evening News.
Her work has earned her multiple Michigan Press Association awards for both reporting and photography, including the Public Service Award for her investigation into harassment allegations within the Charlevoix City Police Department.
Boyne Citizen Board member Michelle Cortright said, "I have known Annie for many years, and have great respect for her writing skills, interest in community, energy, enthusiasm and work ethic. The timing of Annie joining the Boyne Citizen, on the occasion of our first anniversary, is perfect. It feels like it was meant to be.”
Cortright noted that founding editor Jim Baumann will continue in that role, but will be gradually reducing his daily involvement as Doyle comes on board.
Doyle said she is energized by the chance to help shape the Boyne Citizen’s future and views her new role as an opportunity to expand meaningful community reporting at a time when many news outlets have scaled back.
“That’s why the Boyne Citizen matters so deeply,” Doyle said. “Local journalism isn’t just about reporting the news; it’s about reflecting the identity of a town, holding up a mirror so we can see ourselves clearly, celebrate our triumphs and face our challenges together.”
She added that transparency will remain central to her work. “I can promise honesty, transparency and a commitment to reporting accurately. Because this isn’t just another newsroom to us. This is our home. These are our neighbors, our stories.”
The launch of the Boyne Citizen last year reflects a broader trend in Michigan, where nonprofit newsrooms are stepping in to fill the gaps left by shrinking print publications. The Boyne Citizen relies on donations from local residents to sustain its work and plans to continue growing as support increases.
“We know the competition for your attention is fierce,” she said. “But here in Boyne City, we have built something different — something rooted in community, accountability and connection.”
Doyle has lived in Charlevoix County for more than 20 years. Her daughter is a senior at Charlevoix High School, and her son is a sophomore at Columbia University. She moved to Boyne City in August.
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This map from the Top of Michigan Trails Council shows the Boyne City to Charlevoix trail route. The red and purple sections in the middle of the map are the unfinished portions that will not be finished if the County Board of Commissioners does not approve a proposed engineering contract.
End of the road for the BC-CHX bike trail?
By Carole Shane, cjshane@charter.net
The fate of Phase 4 and 5 of the Boyne City to Charlevoix Non-Motorized Trail is in limbo. At their meeting on Wednesday, August 27, Charlevoix County Commissioners discussed a proposed agreement with the engineering firm, Wade Trim. In January of this year, Wade Trim submitted a proposal outlining a “not-to-exceed” estimate of $450,000 for engineering services required to initiate work on the last two phases of what is commonly known as “the bike trail.”
Commissioners were not surprised at the proposed cost and made no objections to other aspects of the contract. Legal counsel has reviewed the contract on behalf of the board. Nevertheless, commissioners voted 3-2 against accepting the agreement. Commissioners Josh Chamberlain, Tim Kenney and Scott Hankins voted no, with Commissioners Robert Jess and Ann-Marie Conway voting yes. Commissioner Chris Christensen was absent from the meeting.
Hankins cited the fact that the county is currently $18 million behind in funding their Municipal Employees’ Retirement System (MERS) account. Additionally, Hankins described ongoing concerns from constituents in his district about the poor condition of some roads and his view that attention to the two mentioned financial liabilities should take precedence over more spending on the trail.
To quote Hankins, “Citizens in my district are screaming that their roads are impassable, almost. Potholes as big as this desk. If we were 100% funded in our retirement commitment, if we had great roads for our taxpayers to drive on, I’d be in favor of the bike trail. I’d probably be there to cut the ribbon and ride the damn thing, but we’re not.”
Commissioner Chamberlain echoed Hankins’ concerns. “Citizens have been very vocal about this. The trail is not even in their district.”
The three “no” voters represent areas of the county that are not along or near the trail. Chamberlain represents District 4, which includes East Jordan and South Arm Township. Similarly, Hankins represents District 5, which includes Norwood, Marion and Eveline Townships; and Kenney represents Wilson, Boyne Valley, Hudson and Chandler Townships.
Jess, Conway and Christiansen represent the cities of Charlevoix, Boyne City and the townships in between them, which are along or near the trail.
During public comment prior to the board’s action, three citizens voiced support for further development of the trail. Steve Van Dam of Bay Township thanked the board for their work on the first three phases of the trail. Boyne City resident Michael Sheean, representing the Top O’ Michigan Trails Council, thanked the board and said, “We are getting great feedback from people using the trail, appreciating it.” South Arm Township resident Ross Maxwell also praised the bike trail in his comments to the board.
County Building future and bullet-proof glass
The board continued to discuss the future of the downtown “County Building.” Commissioner Jess from the Building and Grounds Committee stated that it could cost as much as $500 per square foot to modify/renovate the structure at that site. Per their discussion, the board appears to be unclear about which and how many buildings the county actually needs to conduct their business. They agreed to allow the county administrator to proceed with steps toward a “Building Space and Use Analysis” to provide more information and recommendations regarding best use of the downtown building, the jail, the Health Department and the Shirley Roloff Center.
Three county employees, two from the County Clerk’s office, along with Probate Judge Valerie Snyder, addressed the board, taking issue with their August 13 decision against spending $43,000 to install bullet-proof glass in several offices downtown.
The employees implored the board to reconsider the expenditure for the sake of the safety of dedicated workers who are frequently tasked with managing interactions with highly emotional and sometimes volatile individuals. Commissioners Jess and Kenney expressed their willingness to reconsider the purchase and installation of the protective glass.
In other business, the board heard a presentation about water levels, culverts and dams in the Upper Chain of Lakes, which is mostly located in Antrim County but includes Six Mile Lake in Charlevoix County. Follow this link for further information about the presentation.
The board also:
- Conducted a public hearing regarding closing out a Michigan Community Development Block Grant
- Appointed Kassie Kennaugh to the Parks Advisory Committee
- Accepted the resignation of Henry Erber from the Veterans Affairs Committee
- Approved a Secondary Road Patrol Grant for fiscal year 2026
- Approved a Correction Facility Physician Contract
- Approved a Public Hearing Notice for the 2026 fiscal year budget
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Here is some history of the trail, which was mostly funded by grants - not county funds
By Carole Shane, cjshane@charter.net
The Boyne City to Charlevoix Non-Motorized Trail, commonly referred to locally as the “bike trail,” has been a work in progress for over 20 years. First conceived in 2003, many citizens, governmental units, foundations and other non-profit agencies have worked together toward the goal of connecting Boyne City, Charlevoix and the Little Traverse Wheelway with a paved trail intended for walking, biking, skating, skiing and snowshoeing.
The trail has been designed to be completed in phases with Phase 1 completed in 2016. This initial section runs alongside, but separate from Boyne City Road beginning in Boyne City, running through Young State Park and ending at Springwater Beach Road. It is 3.2 miles in length.
Phase 2 begins at the Little Traverse Wheelway in Hayes Township, crosses US 31 near Waller Road and continues 2.97 miles, alongside Boyne City Road to Quarterline Road. This section was finished in 2018.
Phase 3 was completed in June of this year and connects Phase 1 with Horton Bay, spanning a distance of 2.37 miles, again adjacent to Boyne City Road.
Phases 4 and 5 are planned to connect the approximately six miles of remaining terrain, completing the project. Phases 4 and 5 are effectively stalled at this time due to the recent decision by the Charlevoix County Board of Commissioners (see above story about the August 27 meeting). A divided commission has determined that other financial concerns should be prioritized over any further funding for the non-motorized trail.
Michael Sheean of the Tip O’ Michigan Trails Council attended the August 27 meeting and in a later interview expressed his disappointment in the board’s decision. Sheean remarked about the trail, “Everybody loves it.” He also estimated that only 20% of funding for the bike trail would actually come from the county’s coffers. Federal, state and other grants are likely to cover the remainder.
Sheean also pointed out that the Charlevoix County Road Commission has funds from a road millage that can and should be tapped for road improvements. The majority of Charlevoix County’s townships also have passed millages to fund road work.
The county’s website provides detailed information about the costs and funding sources that were used for Phases 1-3. For example, Phase 3 had a total cost of $1.7 million. Of that amount, $39,290 came from Charlevoix County Funds (2.27%). The remainder was funded by numerous other funds and grants, including $1.17 million from the MDOT/Transportation Alternatives Program and $33,000 from Bay Township, where Phase 3 is located.
Here is a link to information on the county website about the Boyne City to Charlevoix Non-Motorized Trail.
> The next meeting of the Charlevoix County Board of Commissioners is scheduled for Wednesday, Sept. 10, at 9:30 a.m.
| | Newly finished section of the trail as it approaches Horton Bay from the south, on the south side of the Boyne City-Charlevoix Road. | |
Support truly local, community-driven news
The Boyne Citizen doesn't charge for news - your donations make our work possible. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization. Help us make it though our second year!
> You may click below to donate online or mail a check to Boyne Citizen, P.O. Box 83, Boyne City MI 49712.
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Good Neighbors Food Pantry founder Susan Conklin checks out some tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers from a local garden.
Good Neighbors Food Pantry marks 10th anniversary
By Carol Noel, carolnoel3@gmail.com
Most of us don’t think twice about putting food on the table. We plan a meal, make a list, and head to the store. But for some of our neighbors, every trip to the grocery is weighed against rent, medicine, or utilities. Some parents even skip meals so their children don’t have to.
Food insecurity is about far more than just hunger - it’s about distress, disrupted lives, and sacrifice. According to the Economic Research Service, about 47 million people, including nearly 14 million children, lived in food-insecure households in 2023.
To address this need locally, the doors of the Boyne City Good Neighbors Food Pantry opened on September 15, 2015, under the direction of Susan Conklin and a group of dedicated community members. This year a celebration marks the pantry's 10th anniversary and honors the volunteers and supporters who made it possible. From the very beginning, neighbors stepped forward — remodeling the first pantry space, stocking shelves, hauling food, and welcoming guests. Today, more than 60 active volunteers continue that tradition every week.
"Right from the very beginning, so many wonderful people stepped up. Location was a huge question, and the Boyne Area Free Clinic arranged for us to use part of their building. We had a bit of remodeling to do, and volunteers did all that," said Conklin. “We’re grateful to the Free Clinic for providing us with space for the pantry. They don’t charge us rent; we just pay for utilities.”
After retiring from the Boyne District Library, Conklin became the board president when the pantry first opened and has served in that role ever since. She initially volunteered with the Manna Food Project in Harbor Springs, where Deb Noblett, a Boyne City resident who was executive director at the time, recognized that many families were traveling long distances for food assistance, highlighting the need for a new food pantry in Boyne City.
Based in Harbor Springs, the Manna Food Project is the central food bank for Emmet, Charlevoix, and Antrim counties. Each year, Manna distributes more than two million pounds of food - the equivalent of over 1.6 million meals - to meal programs, churches, and more than 40 local pantries, like Good Neighbors.
Manna serves as the pantry’s primary food bank, providing both USDA foods at affordable cost and rescued foods — such as meat, produce, and dairy nearing their “use by” date — at no charge. Manna also offers training, guidance, and food safety oversight to ensure best practices.
Since the beginning, support for the pantry has also come from Magnum Hospitality, with 5% of sales on the first Thursday of each month donated to Manna and the pantry. Various churches also support the pantry both financially and through food donations. In addition, the Good Neighbors Pantry supplements these resources with purchases from local grocery stores and generous donations of fresh produce from the Boyne City Farmers Market and community gardeners.
"This summer we've had home gardeners just show up every week with produce overflowing from their trunk," Conklin said with a smile. According to Conklin, the pantry serves approximately 60 to 65 families per week. In 2024, the pantry served an average of about 211 guests each week, making it their busiest year on record.
"There is a lot of need out there, and it’s not always obvious since we live in a community where there is a lot of focus on all the beauty that surrounds us," she explained.
Families with children face higher costs and less income flexibility. Seniors often live on fixed incomes and have to manage health or mobility challenges. Veterans may struggle with service-related disabilities or barriers to assistance, but ultimately, a single crisis — job loss, medical bill, car repair — can push anyone into food insecurity.
It warms the heart to see the pantry in action, when it is open every Tuesday from 10 a.m.-noon and 2-5:30 p.m. There are a myriad of guests visiting with each other and choosing their food from the shelves. Volunteers, as many as 20 on any given day, are restocking items as well as helping guests. Kids are picking out a book or drawing in the children's corner. According to board member Joanne Park-Foley, "People are often surprised at the quantity and quality of the food, especially the wide selection of protein and fresh produce."
When asked about the pantry’s future, Conklin noted the uncertainty created by the economy, explaining that it’s unclear how government agencies and food programs will be impacted. She added that if conditions worsen and more people seek help, the challenge will be how the pantry will be able to meet the increased demand.
If you'd like to be a good neighbor and lend a hand, a dollar - or a zucchini - volunteers and donations are always welcome. Reach out by contacting the pantry through their website, goodneighborsboyne.org.
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Board members Fran Solomon, at left, and Nancy Simon have finished organizing the dairy cooler.
| | Volunteer Linda Wallace, at left, and board member Laura Richards stock the shelves at the food pantry. | | Tad Richards follows a guest out to her car with the groceries she selected from the pantry's shelves. | | |
Concord Academy hires 5 new staff members
By Jamie Baumann, jamie@boynecitizen.com
Concord Academy Boyne has hired four teachers and a special education paraprofessional to start the 2025-2026 school year.
Joshua Thelander will be teaching social studies. He graduated cum laude from Ferris State University with a major in social studies, a minor in chemistry and additional certification in mathematics. He has four years of teaching experience at Mancelona Middle School; Lakeview High School in St. Clair Shores, Michigan; and L'Anse Junior and Senior High School in L'Anse, Michigan.
Thelander said that he "has been passionate about history and science" from his youth and he wants to "share his passion with future generations." He is excited about joining Concord Academy and for the opportunity to share his love of history.
Mallorie Myers was hired as the second/third grade teacher. Myers graduated from University of Michigan with a bachelor's degree in elementary education. She earned her master's degree in K-12 curriculum at Eastern Michigan University. She has 27 years of teaching experience in Flint, Michigan, and Picacho, Arizona, and as a substitute teacher in Charlevoix and Emmet Counties. She has also worked for the past five years with Musique Groove as an assistant disc jockey.
Myers said, "I joined Concord Academy because I love the close-knit, family atmosphere that comes with a smaller school. The positive way discipline is handled here helps create a safe and supportive place for students to grow. As a teacher, my heart is in building those nurturing connections, and this felt like the perfect place to share my love for teaching with my second/third graders. I am looking forward to school starting."
Krystal Mittelsteadt will be teaching kindergarten. Mittelsteadt is "passionate about early childhood education and committed to nurturing young children's social, emotional, and cognitive development."
Mittelsteadt earned a bachelor's degree in early childhood education from Central Michigan University. She has been a substitute teacher for five years, and most recently was a special education teaching assistant in Vanderbilt Area Schools. Mittelsteadt is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, where she served as an aerospace medical service craftsman.
"I’m excited to join Concord Academy! I believe young children learn best when they can explore and discover in a joyful, hands-on way. This close-knit community feels like the perfect place to build strong connections with students and families. I look forward to sharing my early-childhood experience with a team that values creativity, kindness, and growth for every child," she said.
Hermione Raine joins the staff as the new special education paraprofessional. Raine is working on her bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Special Education at Grand Rapids Community College. She worked in applied behavioral analysis as a registered behavioral technician for Acorn Health in Gaylord for the past two years.
Raine said, "I chose to work at Concord because I am dedicated to helping students succeed. Working in education, specifically special education, is truly a calling for me, and something I am very passionate about!"
William Hutchinson has been hired to teach math, although more information about him was not yet available.
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Save the date for City Candidates Forum Sept. 29
City of Boyne City voters are invited to save the date and attend a City Commission Candidates Forum from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Monday, Sept. 29, at Boyne City Hall, 319 N. Lake Street. The forum is cosponsored by the Boyne Area Chamber of Commerce, the Boyne Citizen and The League of Women Voters Northern Lower Michigan.
The forum will be live streamed on Facebook, and will be recorded and available for later viewing. Five candidates will be on the November 4 ballot for three open seats on the Commission.
Moderators will be Jim Baumann of the Boyne Citizen, Tricia Wilcox of the Boyne Chamber, and Shelli Duff of the League of Women Voters. Candidates will give opening and closing statements. They will answer questions from the moderators and written questions submitted in advance, and that evening from the audience.
City residents are invited to submit questions for the candidates by emailing jim@boynecitizen.com or director@boynechamber.com. The same questions will be asked of each candidate.
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Airport tree trimming
All Aspects Forestry has been contracted by the City of Boyne City to cut or trim trees surrounding the city airport in order to comply with state and federal glide path guidelines for safe operations. The work site is at the west end of the runway, which can be seen in the distance. It is expected that this work and other improvements will allow the city to bring its airport license up to standards, removing the "provisional" designation associated with the airport’s current licensing with the Michigan Department of Transportation.
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Lavender Hill plans 5K run, classes and more
Summer is winding down, but Lavender Hill Farm says “the magic is still in bloom” at the farm located at 7354 Horton Bay Road North. Here are some of the September highlights:
The inaugural Lavender Hill Run, a scenic 5K, is planned for 9 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 13. “Lace up your running shoes for an unforgettable journey through rolling hills, lavender fields, and vibrant flower gardens,” says the event invitation on Facebook. The 33-acre farm offers a unique, hilly course that winds past freshly harvested lavender plots and showcases countryside views. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just in it for the fun, all experience levels are welcome. Celebrate your achievement with a handcrafted wooden finishers medal crafted by Char-Em ISD students, and a commemorative 5k T-shirt to remember the day. Sign up here.
A number of classes and workshops are planned, including:
- Yoga in Bloom every Friday at 9 a.m., plus bonus sessions on Saturdays, Sept. 20 and 27.
- Sound Journey & Meditation - Sunday, Sept. 7 at 3 p.m.
- Abstract Art Workshop - Tuesday, Sept. 16 at 6 p.m.
- Flowers on the Farm - Wednesday, Sept. 17 at 6 p.m.
- Tiny Tapestry Weaving - Sunday, Sept. 21 at 1 p.m.
The farm is offering a special Sunday Brunch at 11 a.m. Sept. 28, and the Flower Cart and Farmhouse Boutique are open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Here are details on these and other events from their September newsletter.
> Lavender Hill is also planning their annual Sunflower Festival with free admission on Saturday, Oct. 4, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Details.
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Universally-accessible trail to Lake Michigan shore now open at Enji-minozhiiyaamigak
Little Traverse Conservancy has announced the official opening of the new universally-accessible trail at their 56-acre Enji-minozhiiyaamigak: The Place of Peacefulness Nature Preserve. Located in Bay Shore just a quarter mile off US-31 between Petoskey and Charlevoix, the new half-mile trail that leads to a platform overlooking Little Traverse Bay. Stairs take you to the cobblestone beach that stretches roughly a quarter mile along Lake Michigan.
Since 1959, the Hause and Van de Grift families owned the land that is now a nature preserve. Trails were established, and the family allowed neighbors to use them. When David Van de Grift decided it was time to sell it, his realtor convinced him to approach the Conservancy first.
With significant lead donations from an anonymous donor, Jennifer Adderley, the Charles M. and Joan R. Taylor Foundation Inc., and Bob and Brynne Coletti, the purchase of the land became possible. This project was especially important to Brynne Coletti, who was in a wheelchair at the end of her life, and understood how difficult it is to experience nature.
Recognizing that US-31 is a well-traveled northern Michigan highway, the anonymous lead donor wanted Enji-minozhiiyaamigak to be inviting for everyone. She also wanted to honor the history of the land and the Bay Shore Band of the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians. All preserve signs are in Anishinaabemowin and English.
160 donors in total made the Conservancy’s acquisition of the land possible in December 2023. At the closing, David and his wife, Marcy, were so pleased to know that the land will continue to be enjoyed as a sanctuary, a place to truly find peace.
An added feature of the preserve is a steel tree sculpture built by the Spring 2025 class of the Industrial Arts Institute in Onaway. The tree is shaped like the style of Native American “marker tree” found around Bay Shore. A map of the historic locations of the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians is nestled within the branches of the sculpture which sits next to the lake overlook.
> For more information, visit www.landtrust.org or call 231.347.0991.
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RAMBLERS HOME OPENER - The Boyne City Ramblers varsity football team will host Elk Rapids for its first home game at 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 5. The Ramblers opened the season with an 18-13 road win at Alpena last Friday. The varsity boys soccer team will be hosting Cheboygan at 5 p.m. Thursday, and the girls varsity volleyball team will also be playing at home Thursday, hosting Kalkaska at 7 p.m. The varsity and middle school cross-country teams will be splashing around at the Charlevoix Mud Run at 9 a.m. on Saturday. Online tickets are available here.
ELECTRONICS AND HAZARDOUS WASTE collection will be held Friday, Sept. 5, and Saturday, Sept. 6 at the Road Commission garage on M-75 South in Boyne City. Acceptable electronics and hazardous waste items include computers, TVs, appliances, tires, fluorescent light bulbs, oil-based paints, chemicals and lawn fertilizers. Click here to receive notification on collection times and to make a reservation. Flyer with details.
CITY RUBBISH PICKUP - The next collection day is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 20. Pick-up will begin at 7 a.m. Details and list of permitted items.
NATIVE PLANT SALE - Stop by the Charlevoix Conservation District's Annual Fall Native Plant Sale on Saturday, Sept. 13, from 12 noon-3 p.m. The sale will be held at the district barn, located at 303 North Street, Boyne City. Everyone is invited to come browse and buy a wide selection of native plants. Habitat flats of 38 plugs are available for pre-order only, deadline Sept. 1. For a species list and the habitat flat order form (may be mailed or emailed in), visit https://www.charlevoixcd.org/native-plant-sale. This sale is in collaboration with the Walloon Lake Association and Conservancy and the Lake Charlevoix Association.
> Tips on starting a native plant garden.
BOYNE AREA SENIOR CENTER is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays and serves daily lunches from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. For seniors ages 60+, the donation is $3, for ages 59 and under, $8, and for children 12 and under, $6. Here is the September lunch menu, and the September activity calendar.
| | City of Boyne City Municipal News | | |
Mayor Tim Nemecek, at right, with other board members at the Michigan Association of Mayors Summer Workshop.
Nemecek joins state Association of Mayors board
Boyne City Mayor Tim Nemecek has been named to the Michigan Association of Mayors (MAM) Board of Directors, filling a vacancy.
In a Facebook post, he said, “My goal was simple: bring Boyne City’s voice, and bring what value I could to the board of directors at the state level, and represent our community with the same pride and dedication I feel every single day as your mayor.” Then, he said, “something truly humbling happened. Not only was I re-elected to serve a full three-year term on the board, but I was also nominated to serve as vice president of the board.”
He said working alongside Board President Brenda Moore, mayor of Saginaw, “is both an incredible privilege and a responsibility I take very seriously. I’m beyond grateful for the confidence my peers have placed in me. I’ll continue working hard to represent Boyne City at the state level and make sure our amazing and wonderful community is recognized as the model of excellence, collaboration, and community spirit that it truly is.”
Asked what he is learning by serving on this board, Nemecek said, “Since joining the board, I’ve had the opportunity to work on two initiatives with my colleagues. The first is a push to increase membership across the state for the Michigan Association of Mayors. The second, still in development, is the creation of a ‘Prior Board of Directors Committee.’ The idea is to give former mayors and village presidents an opportunity to continue serving after their time in elected office. This would allow them to share their experience, knowledge, and skills with both the board and new members.”
During the recent Mayors Association summer workshop, Nemeckek said he learned about “several key successes from other communities that we can adapt to Boyne City’s budgeting process. I plan to bring those concepts forward during our next commission budget work sessions.”
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Find your spot to serve Boyne City
Looking for a way to get involved, give back, and help shape the future of Boyne City? Several of our boards and commissions are looking for passionate, committed community members to fill open seats!
Current openings Include:
- Zoning Board of Appeals – 3 seats
- Planning Commission – 3 seats
- Airport Board – 3 seats
- Parks & Recreation – 1 seat
If you’re ready to share your time, expertise, and voice, visit our Boards & Commissions page to see details for each opening and learn how to apply: www.boynecity.gov/serve. If you have questions about serving on a public board/commission, please contact City Hall at (231)582-6597 OR email us at info@boynecity.gov and we'd be happy to help!
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SIGN UP FOR NEW CITY ALERTS - The City of Boyne City has just launched a brand-new Alerts feature on our website to help you stay up-to-date on projects, notices, and other important things happening around town. It’s a work in progress (we’re still ironing out a few wrinkles), but it’s designed to be a quick, easy way to get real-time updates, as they become available, directly to your email or phone. Sign-up at: https://www.boynecity.gov/enotify/index.php.
We currently have alerts available for:
- Sanitary Sewer Project Updates (CWSRF).
- Boyne City Marina Project Updates.
- City Commission Agendas, Packets, and Minutes Postings.
SEWER PROJECT SCHEDULE - View the Gantt chart for Contract 1 of the CWSRF Project — a simple visual that shows the planned schedule for the Boyne City Sewer Improvements Project.
WATER TEMP - Lake Charlevoix temperature at the Boyne City Marina was 71°F on Wednesday, Sept. 3. That is one degree cooler than a week ago.
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CITY MEETINGS – Click here for board information, agendas, and minutes.
> City Commission's next regular meeting is at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 9. Agenda page.
| | We have no area obituaries this week. | | |
The red arrow pointing to the bright spot shows a supernova that recently appeared in the center of Caldwell 30, a galaxy located approximately 40 million light-years away. To give an idea of its brightness, the galactic core just to the right of it contains well over a billion stars. This image was taken the evening of July 26 at the Wildwood Observatory, located just north of Boyne City.
OUR NIGHT SKY
We just witnessed a supernova
By Rod Cortright, cortrigh@msu.edu
“Our Night Sky” is a monthly column by Rod Cortright, an amateur astronomer and astrophotographer who lives north of Boyne City. He is also a NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassador who does educational outreach for the agency. In the summer, Rod is a Sky Docent at the Headlands International Dark Sky Park.
On July 15, a Type 1a supernova was detected in a galaxy located in the constellation Pegasus. This galaxy, labeled Caldwell 30, is located about 40 million light-years away. A Type 1a supernova is a powerful stellar explosion that occurs in a binary star system, where one of the stars is a white dwarf. A white dwarf is the dense, Earth-sized remnant of a star that has exhausted its nuclear fuel.
On its own, a white dwarf is stable, but if it is paired with a companion star, it can draw in material from that neighbor through gravity. Over time, as the white dwarf gathers more matter, its mass creeps closer to a critical limit of about 1.4 times the mass of the Sun, known as the Chandrasekhar limit.
When the white dwarf nears this limit, the pressure and temperature in its core rise until carbon and oxygen begin to fuse uncontrollably. Unlike normal stars, which regulate nuclear burning, the white dwarf cannot hold back the runaway reaction. This results in a thermonuclear explosion so violent that the entire star is blown apart, releasing more energy in a few weeks than the Sun will in its
entire lifetime.
Type 1a supernovae are extremely bright and consistent in their peak luminosity, making them valuable to astronomers. Because they reach nearly the same brightness no matter where they occur, they act as “standard candles”—cosmic measuring tools that allow scientists to determine the distances to faraway galaxies.
These explosions also play a crucial role in enriching the universe with heavy elements. The blast ejects large amounts of iron and other elements into space, seeding future generations of stars and planets. Without Type 1a supernovae, galaxies like the Milky Way would lack much of the chemical richness needed for rocky planets and, ultimately, life.
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Mrs. Mary A. (Purkiss) Kerry and her school children standing in front of the white brick Morgan Schoolhouse on the corner of South Park and East Main Streets. Photograph courtesy of the Patrick McCleary collection.
THROUGH THE HISTORIAN'S LENS
Teacher Mary Ann (Purkiss) Kerry (1850-1908)
By Patrick McCleary, Throughthehistorianslens@gmail.com
The Charlevoix County History Preservation Society
The early Village of Boyne educated its children in a structure that was built on land donated to the village by pioneers Zachary and Mary (Nevitt) Morgan. It was a wood structure that served as both schoolhouse and church home to the early Methodist congregation. It was located on the corner of South Park and East Main Streets.
After the student community outgrew this one-room structure, it was moved from the corner lot across the street to its present-day location - the church that sits next to the library. In its place, a white brick, four-room schoolhouse was built. It was known as the “Morgan Schoolhouse” due to the generous donation of building materials that the Morgans had again made from their brick yard.
Once completed, however, the question arose as to who would teach. Apparently, there was a shortage of single young women within the small community who were trained to teach. There was, however, Mrs. Mary Ann Kerry. Born in Walton, England in 1850, Mary Perkiss had come to the United States as a young woman and settled at Northport, Michigan. It was there that she became the wife of village blacksmith, George Kerry, in 1873. The young couple moved to Boyne City shortly after their marriage in response to an up-and-coming lumber baron William H. White’s plea for a village blacksmith. Mrs. Kerry was well educated, able to manage children of various ages, had passed her teaching exams earlier in her life, then had her teaching career cut short upon marriage.
Village forefathers overlooked the fact that she was married, and she was hired to manage not only the children but to supervise the care and upkeep of this entire building. At that time, a schoolhouse of this size and stature was quite an achievement for a village the size of Boyne. However, neither the student count nor the teaching staff ever quite caught up with the space, and only the two lower rooms were used as full-time classrooms. Mrs. Kerry’s classroom was located in the lower left-hand corner. She remained in her teaching position for several years, passing away in 1908.
| | The Morgan Schoolhouse, taken shortly after its completion in 1883. Notice the newly planted trees. Photograph courtesy of the Boyne District Library collection. | | > Patrick McCleary is a Certified Genealogist affiliated with the Charlevoix County History Preservation Society (CCHPS), 12555 Taylor Road, Charlevoix, MI 49720. The CCHPS promotes the understanding and appreciation of the heritage of the people of Charlevoix County and its townships by seeking out, collecting, preserving, and interpreting artifacts of historical and cultural significance. For further information, contact Patrick by email: Throughthehistorianslens@gmail.com. | | |
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Bryan Martin concert to benefit Fire Department
Acclaimed country music artist Bryan Martin will perform live at Boyne City High School at 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 25. This special event is held in support of the Boyne City Fire Department and the first responders of the Boyne City Fighters Association. Click here to purchase tickets. For more information, call 616-395-1313.
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MUSIC, ARTS, AND ENTERTAINMENT
Please email your special events and music information to jim@boynecitizen.com.
AMERICAN LEGION Post 228 - 302 S Lake St., Boyne City, (231) 459-4188.
Bingo every Tuesday, open to the public, refreshments provided. Doors open at 3 p.m., play starts at 5, ending at 8.
BC LANES/THE VENUE BAR & GRILL - 1199 M-75 S, Boyne City, (231) 582-6353.
> Fall and winter league signups now in progress.
> Open bowling: 5-9 p.m. Tuesdays, 3-10 p.m. Fridays, 7-10 p.m. Saturdays, 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Sundays.
> Live music resumes on Saturday nights starting Oct. 26 with Two Beats, 7-10 p.m.
BOYNE ARTS CENTER - 1 Water Street, Suite 203, Boyne City. (231) 622-2073.
> Upcoming classes and exhibits:
BOYNE CITY FARMERS MARKET - Veterans Park, 207 N. Lake Street, Boyne City. (231) 582-9009. Open Wednesdays and Saturdays, 8 a.m.-12 p.m.
> LIVE MUSIC:
Saturday, Sept. 6 - Full Moon Jam Band
Wednesday, Sept. 10 - BoonDoggle Cats
Saturday, Sept. 13 - Full Moon Jam Band
Wednesday, Sept. 17 - BoonDoggle Cats
Saturday, Sept. 20 - Terry Coveyou
Wednesday, Sept. 24 - TBA
Saturday, Sept. 27 - Harvest Festival downtown
BOYNE CITY TAP ROOM - 220 S. Lake St., Boyne City, (231) 459-4487.
Thursdays - Adam and the Cabana Boys, 7-10 p.m.
Fridays - Patrick Ryan, 7-10 p.m.
Saturdays - College football game day specials
Sundays - Detroit Lions game day specials
BOYNE MOUNTAIN - 1 Boyne Mountain Rd., Boyne Falls, (855) 688-7024.
> Weekly schedule of events and entertainment at all Boyne Mountain venues.
BOYNE VALLEY VINEYARDS - 05325 US 131 S, Petoskey, (231) 373-2090.
> LIVE MUSIC
Friday, Sept. 5 - Jelly Roll Blues Band (4-7:30)
Saturday, Sept. 6 - Chris Calleja (2-6)
Friday, Sept. 12 - Yankee Station (4-7:30)
Saturday, Sept. 13 - Two Track Mind (2-6)
Friday, Sept. 19 - Chris Calleja (4-7:30)
Saturday, Sept. 20 - Chris Calleja (2-6)
Friday, Sept. 26 - Pete Kehoe (4-7:30)
Saturday, Sept. 27 - Chris Calleja (2-6)
CAFE SANTE - 1 Water St., Boyne City, (231) 582-8800.
> LIVE MUSIC, 7-10 p.m.
Friday, Sept. 5 - Sean Bielby
Saturday, Sept. 6 - Brian T. McCoskey
Friday, Sept. 12 - The Fridays
Saturday, Sept. 13 - Brian T. McCoskey
Friday, Sept. 19 - Pete Kehoe
Saturday, Sept. 20 - Lavender Lions Duo
Friday, Sept. 26 - The Fridays
Saturday, Sept. 27 - Michelle Chenard
CROOKED TREE ARTS CENTER - 461 E. Mitchell Street. Petoskey, (231) 347-4337.
> See website for updated art shows, entertainment, and children's activities.
Join us for a night of laughter and love at Comedy to the Rescue! - an evening of stand-up for a great cause, featuring nationally known comedian Clay Foley. Taking place on Saturday, Sept. 13 at the iconic Crooked Tree Arts Center in Petoskey, this event supports the Little Traverse Bay Humane Society and its mission to help pets and the people who love them. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the show starts at 6:30. Tickets are $30 and include admission plus a drink ticket, and 100% of the ticket price goes directly to the Humane Society. The event includes raffle baskets, LTBHS merchandise for sale, and a cash bar. Purchase tickets here or by calling 231-347-2396.
GREAT LAKES CENTER FOR THE ARTS - 800 Bay Harbor Drive, Petoskey, (231) 439 -2600.
SUMMER/FALL CONCERT SERIES:
Sept. 14 - Grand Rapids Ballet Ballet Masterworks
Oct. 4 - Canadian Brass
Oct. 5 - Manhattan Short Film Festival
Oct. 16 & 17 - Cirque Mechanics Tilt!
Nov. 1 - Cantus
LAKE STREET PUB - 202 S. Lake St., Boyne City, (231) 497-6031.
> TRIVIA NIGHT - Wednesdays, 7-9 p.m.
LAVENDER HILL FARM - 7354 Horton Bay Rd N, Boyne City, (231) 582-3784.
Lavender Hill 5K run on Sept.13, Sunflower Festival on Oct. 4 plus other classes and events in their September newsletter.
MUSKRAT DISTILLING - 121 Water St., Boyne City, (231) 268-0178.
> KARAOKE - 8 to 11 p.m. every Wednesday
> LIVE MUSIC 6-9 p.m.:
Friday, Sept. 5 - The Shifties
Monday, Sept. 8 - Lit With Literature: Firebird By Juliette Cross, 7 p.m.
Friday, Sept. 12 - SAXU4IA
Friday, Sept. 19 - Sean Bielby
Monday, Sept. 22 - Lit With Literature: A Shadow in the Ember By Jennifer L. Armentrout, 7 p.m.
Friday, Sept. 26 - Lou Thumser
PROVISIONS LOUNGE - 123 Water St., Boyne City, (231) 582-2151.
LIVE MUSIC, 6-8 p.m. Tuesdays.
RED MESA GRILL -117 Water St, Boyne City, (231) 582-0049.
LIVE MUSIC 6-9 p.m. on Tuesdays resumes in September.
Tuesday, Sept. 9 - Sean Bielby
Tuesday, Sept. 16 - Keith Scott
Tuesday, Sept. 23 - Lou Thumser
Tuesday, Sept. 29 - Hazel James Band
STIGGS BREWERY & KITCHEN - 112 S. Park St., Boyne City, (231) 497-6100
> October 1 and the first Wednesday of the month - Open Mic Nights hosted by Nelson Olstrom, 6-9 p.m.
> Sept. 13 and the second Saturday of the month - Karaoke with DJ T-Bone Thompson from 8-11 p.m.
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