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January 15, 2026 | Issue #67 | Past issues

Flurrious racers return

This will be the scene at around 10 a.m. this Saturday as Fat and Flurrious, “the Lower Peninsula's most challenging fat bike race,” returns for its 10th anniversary event. Bikers will start in front of Stiggs Brewery & Kitchen in downtown Boyne City and get a police escort to Avalanche Mountain. New this year, racers can ride through an inflatable gingerbread house!

Inside this issue:

• City to transfer theater deed to Main Street
• Commissioners debate how to revise city charter
• Wheelway boardwalk repair could cost $1 million
• Fat and Flurrious bike race returns Saturday 
• Students gain real-world welding experience
• City to repair police drone that fell into lake
• BCHS Quiz Bowl team repeats as Char-Em champs
• Betty Adgate art exhibit opens Friday
• Chamber plans BAH and Awards Celebration
• First World Cup win for Kaila Kuhn
• After 47 years, chiropractor passes the torch
• Boyne Iglu is “Michigan's first mountaintop ice bar”
• Evangeline Township Board meeting summary
• Regional News from Bridge Michigan
• Patrick McCleary local landmarks: 116 Water Street
• News briefs, Obituaries & Municipal News
• Thanks to the donors who keep the news coming!
• Music and entertainment listings

> Like this newsletter? Forward to a friend and help us grow. If they like it, they can subscribe here. P.S. We just hit 2,054 subscribers this week!

www.charlevoixstatebank.com * 231-582-1144

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City to transfer theater deed to Main Street, reopening debate over property’s future

By Annie Doyle Grove, annie@boynecitizen.com

After years of stalled progress, legal confusion and public frustration over Boyne City’s long-shuttered theater, commissioners voted Tuesday night to transfer ownership of the former Boyne Theater property at 216 S. Lake Street to the city’s Downtown Development Authority, which is administered by Boyne City Main Street.

The 4-1 vote at the Jan. 13 City Commission meeting reignited debate over who should control the downtown landmark and what it will take to finally determine the fate of the deteriorating building.

The theater has been at the center of controversy since 2020, when the Main Street Program purchased the building for $350,000 and the City Commission purchased the adjacent parking lot for $150,000 — as part of a deal intended to restore the historic structure. 

But soon after the purchase, disputes over the agreement sparked legal problems that halted momentum, leaving the building in limbo.

As recently as 2024, the future of the theater remained uncertain amid ongoing legal disputes, with both the city and Round Lake Group LLC — parent company of the neighboring Boyne City Taproom, owned by Richard Bergman — listed on the tax roll for the address. According to then-Mayor Tim Nemecek, the city’s portion of ownership came through a complex package deal that included the city leasing part of the building back to Round Lake Group for $1.

“This is where the deal became very complicated and legal issues began to rise almost a year post-purchase due to the lack of due diligence by city leadership at the time,” Nemecek said in 2024.

With the city now holding clear control of the property again following the resolution of earlier legal complications, commissioners debated what should happen next — and who should lead it.

Transfer intended to align ownership with funding source

The commission’s approved motion authorized the transfer of the deed for the theater property — including rights tied to easements, lease agreements or licenses — from the City of Boyne City to Boyne City Main Street at no cost.

The motion stated the purpose was to align legal ownership with the original funding source, financial reporting and intended operational responsibility, while authorizing city staff to execute the paperwork needed to complete the transfer.

Supporters said the move corrects what they described as an administrative mismatch that has prevented Main Street from taking meaningful action.

Commissioner Bridget Foltz said Main Street has remained unable to move forward because the building was not deeded to the organization that paid for it.

“We need to take action,” she said, adding the property has been in the city’s name for years with little progress.

Commissioner Beano Hampton said the building has continued to sit vacant and deteriorate, and argued that transferring the deed could at least allow Main Street to assess the building and pursue next steps.

“I’d rather see an attempt to make it better than just to sit there and have nothing happen to it,” Hampton said.

Mayor Bob Farrell said Main Street had a vision for the building when it was purchased and should have the opportunity to move forward.

Residents urge city to keep control, demand transparency

Public comment reflected deep frustration with the theater’s long and complicated history.

Former City Commissioner Marty Moody argued the city should not transfer ownership to Main Street without a clear plan and raised concerns about how the property was acquired and managed after the purchase.

“The city needs to be made whole for this mess,” he said.

Chris Christensen, who is a Main Street board member as well as Boyne City’s Charlevoix County commissioner, argued the city should keep ownership of the theater because taxpayer money was used to buy it and because elected officials — not appointed boards — should retain control over city property.

“The buck stops here,” Christensen said.

Others echoed the concern that transferring the deed could reduce direct City Commission oversight of the theater’s future.

Former mayor Nemecek also questioned whether the city attorney had reviewed the proposed transaction, referencing the role that lack of legal review played in earlier problems tied to the property.

Commissioners later said the city attorney had advised staff on the transfer process.

Split vote follows failed amendment

Commissioner Sandy Pritchard voted against transferring the deed and repeatedly pressed for evidence of what, specifically, a deed transfer would change without a feasibility study, a financial plan and a long-term strategy for sustaining the building.

She attempted to amend the motion to require Main Street to reimburse the city for expenses related to the theater, but the amendment failed for lack of a second.

Commissioners approved the original motion 4-1, with Pritchard opposed.

A long history and community hopes

The former Boyne Theater has long been a point of community pride and nostalgia.

In 2024, Robin Berry, owner of Freshwater Art Gallery across the street, said she and a group of residents organized a petition with more than 300 signatures urging the city to give the community a chance to propose a renovation plan and management strategy.

“Our beloved theater has been the heart of our community for as long as we can remember,” Berry said. “Renovating it isn’t just about repairing a building; it’s about preserving a piece of our community’s soul.”

Berry previously envisioned the building potentially managed by a nonprofit, similar to small-town models such as the Lyric Theatre in Harbor Springs and the State Theatre in Traverse City.

The theater’s history stretches back more than a century. Built in 1903 as the Bellamy Opera House, it was converted into a theater between 1915 and 1916, renamed the Boyne Theater in 1926 and underwent a major renovation in 1938 that expanded seating to 578. After decades as a movie house, the building was modified again in the 1990s and ultimately closed in 2003.

Now, with commissioners voting to put ownership into Main Street’s hands, the pressure shifts to the downtown organization to determine whether restoration is feasible and what path forward — renovation, repurposing or sale — can finally bring the long-closed theater back into public view.

Correction - City charter revision will not be on the November ballot

City Commissioners on Tuesday discussed but declined to place a city charter review on the ballot in November. A previous version of this story incorrectly stated that the commission approved this resolution. 

The measure failed on a 2-3 vote with Commissioners Becky Houser and Beano Hampton voting in favor of the full review, and Mayor Bob Farrell and Commissioners Sandy Pritchard and Bridget Foltz voting “no.”

The decision came after commissioners and residents debated whether the city should pursue a complete rewrite of the 65-year-old document or instead focus on targeted amendments.

During public comment, several residents voiced concern about launching a full revision so early in the new commission’s term and questioned whether commissioners had identified specific charter problems that would justify a full rewrite.

Chris Christensen said the charter has been in place for 65 years and argued the commission is still working through procedural changes in how meetings are run.

“It’s weird that all the commissions before you didn’t think it was appropriate to take this action, but you guys are being challenged with it after just three months worth of service,” Christensen said.

Former mayor Tim Nemecek echoed similar concerns, saying a full revision could open the door to public speculation about political motives, while also urging the commission to clearly explain the difference between a full revision and charter amendments.

Several residents said they supported modernizing the charter but believed a more limited amendment approach would be a better first step. 

Cindy Banner regularly attends city meetings but said she had not heard much discussion — from this commission or prior commissions — about specific charter issues that would necessitate a complete revision.

Others raised practical concerns about the time and complexity required for a full revision process, particularly as the city continues working through other major operational and budget challenges.

Commissioner Sandy Pritchard questioned whether a full revision should be considered a priority amid other pressing city issues and said the city had not been presented with enough detail about the breadth of problems in the charter to justify a full rewrite.

Pritchard also raised concerns about the political nature of electing a charter commission, which would have resulted from passage of the resolution, and the burden placed on residents who would be responsible for reviewing the charter.

But other commissioners argued the charter’s age and inconsistencies between written rules and city practices have created confusion — including during recent meetings when commissioners have been learning and adjusting to formal procedural requirements.

> Read the City Charter online.

Property details and pictures

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County board discusses Wheelway woes that could cost $1 million

By Carole Shane, cjshane@charter.net 

The Charlevoix County Board of Commissioners heard a report Tuesday from Pat Manchin of Manchin Engineering regarding significant issues with the boardwalk portion of the Little Traverse Wheelway in Charlevoix County.

Machin’s firm inspected the approximately 3,200-foot section both aerially via drone and by land and determined that the lateral supports or “tiebacks” have deteriorated and should all be replaced. Machin’s report included an estimated cost of $61,000 for the engineering work required for the repairs with the cost to actually complete the repairs estimated at between $800,000 and $1 million.

The county is responsible for maintenance and repair of the section of the Wheelway that runs through Charlevoix County, including the 18-year-old boardwalk.



The boardwalk was closed in late 2025 after the board learned there were concerns about the structure’s integrity and safety. No action was taken regarding the matter, but commissioners discussed remedies that might be explored, such as simply shoring up the tiebacks rather than replacing them or closing the boardwalk section indefinitely and rerouting the trail alongside the shoulder of US 31. Monies from the Parks Department would need to be used for repairs unless other funding such as grants can be obtained.

Several commissioners reiterated their stance against taking on further responsibility for construction of bike trails within the county, due to the unpredictable legacy costs of maintaining the structures over time.

COA problems

A volunteer board member and committee member of the Commission on Aging (COA) was present, defending the integrity of her service on the committee and expressing her desire to continue her work. 

The volunteer described difficulties she has experienced with a county employee of the COA as well as her various attempts to seek help with that working relationship last year. However, the volunteer’s relationship with the county employee has deteriorated to the point that she has sought and obtained a Personal Protection Order (PPO) due to verbal threats.

The volunteer works at the pleasure of the board and could be removed with board action. Commissioner Chris Christensen wondered whether a PPO being in place would itself prevent the volunteer from continuing to serve on the COA Committee. 

Sheriff Chuck Vondra stated that a PPO would require the county employee to avoid contact with the victim, not the other way around. No action was taken with follow-up referred to County Administrator and Human Resources Coordinator Kevin Shepard.

Other business at the January 13 meeting included:

• Continued discussion of the Six Mile Lake Survey
• Approval of a donation of $15,000 from Bethany Lutheran Church to be used for food supplies

> The Charlevoix County BOC (Committee of the Whole) will meet at 1 p.m. Friday, January 16 to discuss the county’s future involvement with CCE 911, the consortium that works together to operate the 911 system in Charlevoix, Cheboygan and Emmet Counties. 

Racers definitely look "flurrious" as they ride up the Park Street hill on their way to Avalanche Mountain.

Fat and Flurrious bike race returns Saturday with an inflatable gingerbread house 

Fat and Flurrious, “the Lower Peninsula's most challenging fat bike race,” returns to Boyne City for its 10th anniversary event, which begins at 10 a.m. this Saturday, Jan. 17. Bikers will start in downtown Boyne City and get a police escort to Avalanche Mountain, where they race on the same single-track and two-track that they ride in the summer. The after party and awards will be held at 1 p.m. at Stiggs Brewery and Kitchen during their 9th anniversary party. Details:

• Sport Class - one lap around Avalanche
• Open Class - two/three laps around Avalanche

Each lap is around seven miles, the course consists of single-track mixed with two-track for plenty of room for passing but also “keeping it true to the fat biking vibes we all know and love.” There is also a popular “Trivia Shortcut" that was started a few years ago. The race Facebook page says, “You'll know when you're at the trivia shortcut when you see the giant inflatable gingerbread house that you'll ride through.” 

Race founder Mike Cortright, owner of North Country Cycle shop, commented, “Days like these are the reason we show up to work every day. It all comes together. Everyone’s dedication to working on the trails in the summer, the staff’s hard work all year at the shop, grooming in the winter, relationships built over the years, the whole biking community - it all converges on days like this. We love to see it!”

< Registration and details at www.fatandflurrious.com.

Call or text: 989-245-2565

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Konyr Lewin welds a joint on a steel rack being built through East Jordan High School’s Career Tech Education welding program, a hands-on project coordinated with a local plastics company that supplied the materials so students could gain real job-site experience.



Boyne City seniors Zander Shaler, Konyr Lewin, Mason Shires and Johnny Cosier stand in the East Jordan High School welding shop, where they spend four hours a day in the Career Tech Education program to build skills in processes like MIG, stick and oxyacetylene welding.

BCHS students gain real-world experience in East Jordan welding program

By Annie Doyle Grove, annie@boynecitizen.com

For four Boyne City seniors, the school day doesn’t look like it does for most high school students.

This year, the students spend four hours each day in the career and technical education welding program at East Jordan High School, returning to Boyne City High School only for math and English. The arrangement has allowed them to immerse themselves in hands-on training — and recently, to take on real-world work for a local business.

Under the direction of welding instructor Dave Muladore, the students partnered with East Jordan Plastics to fabricate a custom steel rack, a paid project that Muladore said gives students valuable experience beyond the classroom.

“They sent us a print, ordered all the material and covered the costs,” Muladore said. “They get a good product, and these guys get experience. That’s what it’s all about — having them job ready.”

Muladore oversees about 35 students in the welding program, spread across three two-hour blocks. The four Boyne City seniors attend for two consecutive blocks, allowing them to focus almost entirely on welding during their final year of high school.

The partnership with East Jordan Plastics grew out of Muladore’s connections to the local workforce. He also teaches an adult welding class, and one of those students works at the plastics company.

“One thing led to another,” Muladore said. “That’s how these relationships start.”

Muladore has led the program for a decade, after spending years working as a professional welder and teaching at the college level. He said the goal of the program is not just exposure, but true workforce preparation.

“We start with safety — that’s number one,” he said. “Personal protective equipment, knowing how to work safely. Then we move into the basics and build from there.”

Students learn multiple welding techniques, including oxy-acetylene, stick welding, MIG and TIG welding, and work with steel, aluminum and stainless steel as they advance.

“When they’re done here, they’re job ready,” Muladore said. “They can walk into industry and know what’s expected of them.”

For senior Johnny Kosier, the program has provided skills he uses daily on his family’s farm.

“I weld a lot of things at home,” Kosier said. “My dad owns a roofing company, so I end up fixing stuff all the time. Even if welding isn’t what I go into, it’s a good skill to have.”

Kosier said the program also opened his eyes to different learning environments.

“I thought this was just how school was,” he said of his previous school experience. “Then I came here and realized how different it could be. East Jordan is pretty cool.”

Muladore said students in the program take many different paths after graduation. Some continue their education at institutions such as Kirtland Community College or Michigan Technological University, while others enter the trades directly or join family businesses.

“There’s a whole range,” he said. “Some go into welding full-time. Others take these skills into plumbing, construction or engineering.”

Beyond industry projects, students also complete creative and competitive assignments. Each year, they design and fabricate original projects, which are displayed and voted on by school staff. Winners receive donated tools and equipment — prizes Muladore says reinforce both pride and professionalism.

The program’s work can also be seen throughout East Jordan, including large downtown metal art installations that students helped design and build.

“These projects bring together everything they’ve learned — welding, plasma cutting, design and teamwork,” Muladore said.

As the students wrap up their project for East Jordan Plastics following the holiday break, Muladore said he hopes the community recognizes the value of career and technical education.

“This is real work,” he said. “These kids are learning skills that matter, and they’re doing it while they’re still in high school.”

For the four Boyne City seniors, it’s an experience that has already set them apart — and given them a strong start on whatever comes next.

This is a photo of the Boyne City Police Department drone before it was damaged while helping to locate a missing woman.

Boyne City to repair police drone that went underwater during search

By Annie Doyle Grove, annie@boynecitizen.com

Boyne City commissioners approved a $6,458.10 unbudgeted expenditure Tuesday to repair the Police Department’s primary drone after Police Chief Kevin Spate said the equipment helped locate a missing woman during a search last summer — and was damaged in the process.

Spate told commissioners the drone was used Aug. 11, 2025 while Boyne City officers assisted the Charlevoix County Sheriff’s Office in searching for a woman who had walked away. The woman was ultimately found in the water, Spate said, in the middle of Deer Lake.

“We were helping the county find a lady who’d walked away, and we ended up finding her in the middle of Deer Lake,” Spate said in a follow-up interview. “In the process of getting rescue to her, we had to fly the drone past its useful battery life, and it ended up landing in the water.”

Spate added that the drone is not designed to land in water, and said it sustained damage after going underwater — though he noted it captured about 10 minutes of underwater footage before failing.

The repair will be handled by Unmanned Vehicle Technologies LLC, the distributor the city purchased the drone from. Spate said seeking multiple repair quotes would require shipping the drone to other companies for separate assessments.

“This is also our flagship drone,” Spate said during the meeting, adding that it is the department’s large, outside drone used for most of the department’s work.

The department has four drones in total, according to Spate, including a smaller outside drone, a medium-sized outside drone and two small indoor drones used in high-risk situations such as barricaded or armed-person calls. The indoor models can be deployed inside a home to help locate a person without sending an officer in first, he said.

Beyond search and rescue missions, Spate said Boyne City police use drones to support other public safety operations. Many of the department’s drones have thermal imaging capabilities that can help the Fire Department identify hot spots during a structure fire and assess where flames may break through a roof.

Police also use drones for crowd monitoring at major events like Fourth of July celebrations and Boyne Thunder, Spate said, as well as for “overwatch” during search warrants to help officers maintain visibility and ensure no one leaves a location while teams move into position.

During public comment at the meeting, Boyne City resident and Charlevoix County Commissioner Chris Christensen said he supported the use of drones but questioned whether repairing the equipment was the best option given the price tag, asking how much a new drone would cost and whether any warranty would apply to a refurbished unit.

Another resident, former mayor Tim Nemecek, said he supported the decision to prioritize a potential rescue but urged the city to consider whether the drone itself should be insured as a major asset.

Spate told commissioners the drone warranty was voided because officers flew the drone past its recommended battery limits during the incident. He also said the city’s insurance policy currently covers damage a drone might cause, but not damage to the drone itself — an issue he said he plans to discuss with City Manager Sam Demel and the city’s insurer moving forward.

Commissioners ultimately approved the repair, with several citing the importance of having reliable tools for public safety in a lakeside community where emergencies can unfold on the water and during large seasonal events.

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BCHS Quiz Bowl team repeats as Char-Em champs

Boyne City’s Quiz Bowl A team capped another strong showing on December 12 by finishing as champions at the Char-Em Quiz Bowl tournament at North Central Michigan College — marking back-to-back monthly titles for the team.

Boyne City’s A team emerged as the only undefeated squad in the tournament after a tiebreaker win over Charlevoix A and a narrow victory over St. Michael A in the finals, according to a community announcement. The event featured a record 22 participating teams, making it the largest Char-Em Quiz Bowl on record.

In addition to the A team’s championship run, Boyne City’s B team played a key role in the day’s drama. The A team’s only loss came in its first match of the tournament — a “fierce battle” against their classmates on the Boyne City B team, according to the announcement.

Boyne City Superintendent Pat Little praised the students’ achievement and what it reflects about the district.

“We are very proud of the success of the quiz bowl teams,” Little said. “It goes to show that anything’s possible in Boyne City Public Schools.”

Members of the Boyne City A team were Ethan Houser, Ben Ivie (captain), Cameron Little, Abe Rykse, Bowen Tate and Garrison Sudderth. Boyne City B team members were Gabe Houser (captain), Josie LaCombe, Anna Zucker, Ricky Bristol and Will Christensen.

Boyne Arts Center celebrates Betty Adgate; Opening exhibit reception is Friday night

The Boyne Arts Center is celebrating the life and art of longtime Boyne City artist and educator Betty Adgate - and has invited today’s fourth graders to be part of the commemoration.

From January 16 through February 14, the Arts Center will host a special exhibit featuring Betty Adgate’s artwork alongside pieces created by Boyne City fourth-grade students who studied and interpreted her work. An opening reception will be held on Friday, January 16, from 5 to 7 p.m., and the public is invited.

Adgate taught art in Boyne City Public Schools for 20 years, from the 1960s through the 1980s. She was best known for her watercolor paintings, but she also worked in pencil, charcoal, oils, sculpture, pottery, and basket weaving. Betty and her husband, Dee Adgate, raised their children, Cary and Susan, in Boyne City. She passed away in 2024 on her 97th birthday.

This exhibit pairs a selection of Betty’s artwork with student pieces inspired by one of her paintings. The project was led by Boyne City Elementary art teacher Kayla Fineout, who chose a work that offered strong expression while also being approachable for young artists to explore, interpret, and experiment with.

“My students and I are thrilled to have their work shown alongside Betty Adgate’s,” Fineout said. “It feels like a full-circle moment for me, having known Betty and now helping bring this exhibit together as an art teacher at Boyne City Elementary.”

Boyne Arts Center artists Cydney Steeb, Carol Ross, and Alice Schaub also visited the fourth-grade classrooms, demonstrating techniques and giving students the chance to learn directly from working artists.

> The Boyne Arts Center is located at One Water Street, above Café Sante in Suite 203. There are both stairs and an elevator available.

Chamber plans Business After Hours and seeks nominations for Awards Celebration

The Boyne Area Chamber’s first Business After Hours of the year will take place on Thursday, January 22, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Fibershed will host the event to celebrate their new location at 211 Front Street. Lake Charlevoix Coffee Company and Lake Street Pub are co-hosting the event and providing refreshments for a relaxed evening of networking and conversation with fellow community members.

The Chamber is also asking members to save the date for their Annual Awards Celebration at 6 p.m. Friday, March 20, at the Talcott Center in Walloon Lake. A Chamber announcement says, “This is our largest event of the year and a special evening dedicated to recognizing Boyne area businesses.” Register to attend.

Everyone is invited to recognize outstanding individuals and businesses in the community by submitting nominations for four awards:

• Volunteer of the Year
• Community Leadership Award
• Entrepreneur of the Year
• Beautification Award

Click here to nominate for the awards.

Kaila Kuhn celebrates on the podium at Lake Placid. “It’s pretty indescribable,” she said.

Kaila Kuhn ends the season on a high note, takes home first career World Cup win

From the U.S. Ski Team:

Boyne City native and U.S. Olympic ski team member Kaila Kuhn returned to the World Cup podium Saturday in Lake Placid, New York, taking home the first World Cup victory of her career at the Stifel Lake Placid Freestyle Cup. She was third the day prior in the individual aerials competition.

“I’ve done this jump 100 times before, and when the crowd is here and the pressure is on, I just rely on that training and that’s what I did today,” Kuhn said after the event. “I knew that if I relied on the jumps I did all summer, then I could put it to my feet when it mattered.” 

It was a cold, snowy, blustery day in Lake Placid. Not only was it the final competition of the season before the Olympic Winter Games, but it was the final chance to qualify for Team USA. The season’s overall trophy, the World Cup Crystal Globe, was also on the line. 

In the qualification round, it was Kuhn leading the women for the second day in a row, with teammate Kyra Dossa within the top 12 to land a spot going into the finals. Kuhn, who was back on the individual aerials podium for the first time since 2021 less than 24 hours prior, qualified in first place with a lay-full-full. Going off the triple, athletes were launching themselves nearly 55-60 feet into the air; on the double, they’re going up to 40 feet. 

“It’s pretty indescribable,” said Kuhn, when asked how it felt to win the competition and make Team USA. “There is no better place where I would want to get my first World Cup win, but also ending the season with a win, especially going into the Olympics, is a huge confidence boost, and I will be going into the Olympics this year with this win in the back of my mind.” 

With the result, Kuhn finished the season in third place in the overall World Cup standings.

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The Boyne Valley Chiropractic crew, from left: Marlaine McLeod, Dr. Ricky Pethers and Yolanda Pethers.

After 47 years, Boyne City chiropractor Ricky Pethers passes the torch

By Annie Doyle Grove, annie@boynecitizen.com

When longtime Boyne City chiropractor Dr. Ricky L. Pethers slipped on the rocks at Veterans Memorial Park and fell into Lake Charlevoix nearly five decades ago, he took it as a sign.

“I popped back up and told my wife, ‘This is where we’re going to live,’” Pethers said.

That unexpected moment led to 47 years of chiropractic care in Boyne City — and now, to a carefully planned transition at Boyne Valley Chiropractic Center, located at 430 Boyne Ave.

The practice, which Pethers opened in 1978, will officially change hands on Feb. 1, when Corey Redman, a Boyne City native, takes over the office. Redman will shadow Pethers during the final two weeks of January, giving patients an opportunity to meet him before the transition.

Pethers, who grew up in Flint, attended chiropractic college near Chicago before he and his wife Yolanda began searching for a place to settle in Northern Michigan. They considered several communities — including Charlevoix, Bellaire and Traverse City — before Boyne City stood out.

“We came up in September of 1978 and opened the business Nov. 1,” Pethers said. “Our son was nine months old when we moved here.”

Over the decades, Boyne Valley Chiropractic Center became a fixture in the community, serving multiple generations of families and building long-standing relationships with patients.

“This town has been fabulous to us,” Pethers said. “I can’t imagine living anywhere else.”

The decision to retire came after careful consideration, Pethers said. He began searching for a successor through the Michigan Association of Chiropractors, eventually narrowing several candidates down to two.

Redman grew up in Boyne City, became an all-state basketball player, and comes from a well-known local family. He quickly emerged as the right fit.

“He wanted to come back to his hometown,” Pethers said. “It just felt like kismet.”

While chiropractic care has evolved over the years, Pethers said the foundation of the profession has remained largely unchanged.

“I still use my hands for adjustments,” he said. “There are new modalities now that work alongside chiropractic, but the art itself hasn’t changed much in the last 100 years.”

As he steps away from daily practice, Pethers said he plans to continue some nutritional work while spending more time traveling with his wife and enjoying time with family. Their son now lives in Lansing, and much of their time is spent visiting grandchildren and attending basketball games.

While he is ready for the next chapter, Pethers said leaving the practice — and his patients — will be bittersweet.

“We’re really going to miss the people,” he said. “We’ve met so many wonderful people over the years. It’s been quite a ride.”

Pethers encouraged longtime patients to stop by Boyne Valley Chiropractic Center during the final weeks of January to meet Redman and help make the transition a smooth one.

“I’d love for everyone to come in and meet him,” he said.

After 47 years at the same Boyne City address, the practice may be changing hands — but its roots in the community remain firmly in place.

Iglu Boyne Mountain is “Michigan's first mountaintop ice bar”

Boyne Mountain Resort announces the opening of Iglu Boyne Mountain, a mountaintop bar carved entirely from snow and ice. Located at Disciples Overlook between Disciples 8 and SkyBridge Michigan, resort officials say “Iglu offers guests an immersive experience that transforms traditional après ski into a gathering spot with serious atmosphere.”

Inspired by centuries-old European alpine tradition and crafted by Austrian master builders, the structure is a genuine feat of winter architecture: a handcrafted igloo carved from a massive snow mound, featuring ice artistry and an intimate bar - part Tyrolean alpine hut, part childhood snow fort fantasy, entirely unforgettable.

"Iglu represents everything we love about mountain culture," said Kari Roder, Boyne Mountain Resort's director of marketing. "It's about gathering together, celebrating winter, and creating experiences that people remember long after the snow melts. When you step inside and see the carved ice walls glowing, the fur blankets draped over ice benches, and hear the buzz of conversation and music, that's when you realize this is something really special."

Iglu Boyne Mountain is the first in Michigan, joining Boyne Resorts' sister properties in Maine and Montana in offering this distinctive alpine experience. The venue welcomes all ages inside and also features an outdoor walk-up bar and fire pits for warming up between runs or rounds.

Iglu is open Wednesday-Thursday from 4 to 8 p.m. and Friday-Sunday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Operating hours are weather dependent, as the natural snow structure's condition may vary.

Skiers can access Iglu Boyne Mountain from the Disciples 8 and Alpine chairlifts, while non-skiers will find it steps away from SkyBridge Michigan. Guests are encouraged to dress warmly.

Evangeline Twp. Board January 13 meeting summary

The Evangeline Township Board held its regular meeting Tuesday, January 13. Here is a summary provided by the township:

• Resolution #2026-01-13 A was adopted, outlining the regularly scheduled monthly board meetings.
• Resolution #2026-01-13 B was adopted for poverty exemption, and income guidelines for the Board of Review.
• A position description and application for the sexton position was approved, with an application deadline of February 6.
• Supervisor Mercer will meet with the city manager to discuss the status of the township planner.
• Bids will be sent out for groundskeeping at the cemetery, with a March 1 deadline.
• The cemetery committee is working on amendments to the cemetery ordinance, which will be presented to the board at its regular February meeting.
• Reflectors have been installed at the entrances to the cemetery to prevent illegal snow plowing during the winter when the cemetery is closed. In early December someone plowed the cemetery entrance and off the road; damage will be assessed in the spring.
• Winter property tax bills are 39% collected, 61% outstanding, with 313 parcels paid and 402 parcels outstanding. Deadline for payment of winter property taxes is February 7.
• It is required that the township website be ADA compliant by April 1. Treasurer Larry Taylor, who maintains the website, will make the update.
• A meeting of the townships and the city to discuss EMS was held January 6; the next meeting will be held in February.
• 2026 goals were discussed in detail.
• The planning commission will meet Tuesday, January 21 at 5:30p.m.
• A joint township boards and commissions meeting will be held at 5:30 p.m., Tuesday, January 27.  
• Budget planning session will be held Wednesday, January 28 at 5 p.m.
• The next regular township board meeting will be held at 5:30 on Tuesday, February 10.
• A public hearing on the FY2027 budget will be held at 5:30 on Tuesday, March 10, before the regular board meeting.
• Township website.

Editor’s note: The Boyne Citizen has contacted other Boyne area townships and asked them to provide similar summaries of their board meetings and other news. Contact Editor Jim Baumann with questions or news items - jim@boynecitizen.com or 231-675-8793.

News Briefs

IRELAND TRIP MEETING - The next community meeting for the Boyne Heritage Center October 2026 Community trip to Ireland will be Thursday, January 29 at 6 p.m. at the Boyne District Library. The Heritage Center encourages people to send their questions in advance to keciafreeddesign@gmail.com, so answers can be provided at the meeting.

ROTARY EUCHRE Tournament fundraiser will be held at the Boyne City Eagles Hall at 6 p.m. Saturday, January 24. Doors open at 5 p.m. Players pay $25 to enter. Prizes are: 1st $250, 2nd $150 and 3rd $100. Cash bar, complimentary hors d'oeuvres. Call Kathy for info or Venmo to enter at 231-459-6433.

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 lunch donation is $3, for ages 59 and under, $10; and for children 12 and under, $8. Here is the January lunch menu, and the January activity calendar.

Regional News from Bridge Michigan

& Interlochen Public Radio

> State park camping reservations going fast for Memorial Day weekend - Details

> Abuse, neglect common in Michigan nursing homes — and no one is coming to help - Details

> 0HDAMM, Michigan has banned more than 30,000 license plates - Details

> Is that a snow plow? Or the Millennium Falcon? - Details

City of Boyne City Municipal News

The City of Boyne City honors the life and legacy of Eleanor Stackus, a dedicated public servant, community leader, and exceptional volunteer whose commitment to Boyne City spanned decades.

Eleanor served on the Boyne City Commission from 1993 to 2009 and as Mayor from 1999 to 2009, becoming one of only two female mayors in the City’s history. Known as a hard worker with a deep sense of responsibility to the community, she approached public service with integrity, preparation, and a genuine desire to do what was best for Boyne City.

Eleanor was especially passionate about Boyne City’s Fourth of July celebrations and played a key role in ensuring the community continued to celebrate on July 4th itself rather than moving the event to a weekend. That dedication to community traditions ultimately inspired her to seek elected office. Her leadership during this time also helped guide important growth and improvements within the City.

In addition to her service on the City Commission, Eleanor and her husband Jim served for many years as Boyne City Airport Managers. Their commitment went beyond the role itself, they kept a radio in their home to receive calls from pilots needing assistance, and they, along with their family, regularly stepped in to provide fuel and support whenever it was needed.

Eleanor Stackus’s strength, dedication, and love for Boyne City will forever have a lasting impact on our community. She will be remembered for her service, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the City she cared for so deeply.

Thank you, Eleanor.

> Eleanor Stackus obituary

SIGN UP FOR CITY ALERTS - The City of Boyne City has launched a 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 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.

CITY MEETINGS – Click here for board information, agendas, and minutes.

> City Commission's next regular meeting is at 12 p.m. Tuesday, January 27. Agenda page.

Obituaries

Rita Ann (Boese) Johnecheck

October 16, 1952 ~ January 10, 2026 (age 73)

Earl R. Bennett, Sr.

July 19, 1932 ~ January 7, 2026 (age 93)

Thomas Robert Fisher

April 10, 1945 ~ January 6, 2026 (age 80)

The south side of Water Street taken about 1910 by famed photographer Edward Beebe. Once completely lost to fire, the newly erected buildings on this side of the street were all constructed of brick. Beginning from left to right, the upper wall of the I.O.O.F. building sitting next to the lovely old home of Judge Roscoe L. Corbett and family, which was situated on the corner of Water and South Park Streets. Next would be the second bank building built on this site, which also housed a two-man barbershop in the basement. The Masonic building was home to two business establishments - the Bergy Bros. store on the left side, and William H. Selkirk’s store on the right portion of the building. William R. Neirgarth’s establishment is the next in line - the location of Schraw & Associates Attorneys at Law office today. Photograph courtesy of the Patrick McCleary Collection. 

THROUGH THE HISTORIAN'S LENS

Our local landmarks – 116 Water Street

By Patrick McCleary, Throughthehistorianslens@gmail.com

The Charlevoix County History Preservation Society 

As we continue with this month’s look at the role deltiologists play in the study of local history, I bring to your attention the image above. Shown here is the south side of Water Street - with South Lake Street being positioned to the right and South Park Street visible at left. Photographed by famed photographer Edward Beebe, it was taken around 1910 as part of William H. White’s campaign to promote Boyne City to Michigan and surrounding states. Hundreds of real-picture-postcards were created at that time. Citizens were encouraged to send them at liberty to let the country see the growth and development taking place in Boyne City.

Originally, a wooden storefront had been erected on this lot. It had been lost during the 1895 fire that destroyed nearly all of the south side of Water Street. A second wooden storefront was then erected, which housed a second-hand store catering to a variety of goods. This building too was later lost to fire. 

This iconic image is a staged scene “after the fact,” taken to bolster support of Boyne City’s early fire department. It allowed firemen the opportunity to show off their new, modern firefighting equipment and the uniforms that had been purchased earlier that same year. The ruined building is the wooden storefront that sat on the 116 Water Street lot, which burned in either 1901 or 1902. It was shortly after this event that the Niergarth Dry Goods store was erected - a brick edifice lasting to this day. Of particular note is the foreground of this image, which is the vacant lot where the 1908 Masonic Building stands today - another brick edifice to survive the ravages of both fire and time. Photograph courtesy of the Patrick McCleary Collection. 

Two versions of 116 Water Street: At left is the Niergarth Dry Goods Store.

At right is a portion of a larger real-picture-postcard depicting Water Street during the time when 116 Water Street housed S.A. Fleming’s Boyne

City House Furnishing Company. Photographs courtesy of the Patrick McCleary Collection.

Wilhelm Reihl Niergarth was born on February 28, 1871, in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada- the son of German immigrants, Jacob and Margaretha (Riel) Niergarth. The family came to the United States in 1881 and settled Reed City. On December 30, 1896, he married Lydia K. Henne in that location. Lydia’s father, Stephen Henne, had spent his life as a clergyman. However, in his later years, he became a business partner with his son-in-law, Mr. Niergarth. By 1900, the three resided in Howard City in Montcalm County. At that time, the two men were dealers in retail boots and shoes, with Mr. Henne acting as a salesman in the storefront. 

Mr. and Mrs. Niergarth came onto the Boyne City scene in 1903. Having heard of the new-found prosperity to be had in Charlevoix County, he brought with him his business acumen and contacts and opened a mercantile business on Water Street. In addition to functional and work clothing, Mr. Niergarth catered to those with dressier tastes as well. While his window displays were often decked out with formal attire, his advertising still read: “Dry Goods, Cloaks, Shoes, Rubbers.” 

In that year, the Reed City Record newspaper gave the following account of their departure from that city.

“Several friends of Mr. and Mrs. W.R. Niergarth were present at a farewell party tendered them last Friday evening at the home of Mr. and Mrs. J.H. Prout. A beautiful carver and cut-glass rest were presented to them. They leave for their new home in Boyne City soon. Mr. Niergarth is visiting relatives at Reed City and Evart this week but will return to oversee the loading of their household goods.”

Weeks later, the Boyne Citizen made the following observation:

“Mr. Niergarth arrived last Saturday and Mrs. Niergarth and son on Monday. They are now in possession of their new business.”

In addition to a quality line of goods being sold on the main floor, another interesting aspect of the Niergarth building was that a dirty man could use the outside staircase to descend into the lower level, where hot baths could be taken. You could bathe and dress at Niergarth’s and then walk two doors down to the lower level of the local bank and get a haircut! 

In 1905, while visiting family in southern Michigan, the Niergarths’ only son, Ezra, was kicked in the head by a horse and died at the age of six. That same year, Lydia (Henne) Niergarth would also succumb to death. William Niergarth would remain a widow until 1912, when he married a second time to Clara Magdalena Haist at Crediton in Huron County, Michigan. During their 20-year marriage, they became the parents of two daughters. Mr. Niergarth was actively involved in the Methodist Church and Sunday School and was also one of the original stockholders in the Wolverine Hotel. 

Niergarth’s continued to operate in Boyne City until 1917. In that year, William formed a business partnership with his brother, R.R. Niergarth. The two took their business to Bad Axe, Michigan, but shortly thereafter moved again to Battle Creek. There they started the Niergarth Bros. Grocery and Bakery and were later connected with the Battle Creek Upholstering Company there. William R. Niergarth died there on December 19, 1932, at the age of 61. 

The Boyne Citizen, March 1, 1917, Page 1:

NIERGARTH STORE CLOSES SATURDAY

Mammoth Crowds in the Store All During the Day and Evening.

Saturday was one of the biggest days during the closing out sale. The store was crowded during the entire day and in the evening, it was almost impossible for the clerks to get from one customer to another for the mass of people. 

The piano contest closed soon after ten o’clock. The votes were counted by Messrs. Tompkins and Hooper, and the result was announced a few minutes later. Mrs. Frank Herman won the first prize. Mary Ambergy the second prize and Mrs. John Sudman the third prize. The two latter prizes consisted of gold watches while the first prize was the piano.                   

As to the property at 116 Water Street, based on local newspaper advertisements, it appears that William Niergarth and a Mr. S.A. Fleming shared the location for several years. Upon Mr. Niergarth’s departure, Mr. Fleming then took over the location solely. He operated a first-rate home furnishing establishment, which he called the Boyne City House Furnishing Company. It appears to have been a successful enterprise. Little beyond a few advertising postcards and newspaper ads yet exist to attest to its presence within the Boyne City business district. 

AT LEFT - An advertising card issued in 1912 by the Boyne City House Furnishing Company and its proprietor, S.A. Fleming. Photograph courtesy of the Patrick McCleary Collection.

AT RIGHT - A Christmas advertisement as published in The Boyne Citizen, December 1911.

By January 1934, Mr. and Mrs. Raymond C. Bearss moved into the upstairs apartment at 116 Water Street and began operating the Kalamazoo Stove Company. This company built furnaces for whole-home heating systems, room heaters and cooking ranges. They were a major mail-order appliance manufacturer based out of Kalamazoo, between the years 1902 and 1952. They were known for their slogan, "A Kalamazoo - Direct to You."

A large company with a national outreach, they began in the early 1930’s to maintain local branch offices. Raymond and Ralph Bearss remained at the helm of the Boyne City operation until 1939 when Ray moved to Ellsworth and Ralph became owner and operator of Bearss and Sons Plumbing & Heating. Local resident Gilford “Gil” Coon took over the Kalamazoo Stove business. Gil later relocated to 215 South Lake Street, a store that would later burn to the ground. Afterward, he and his wife, Helen, would operate Gil Coon’s Furniture store on the opposite side of South Lake Street. 

Here is a current picture of the 116 Water Street building, now occupied by Schraw & Associates Attorneys at Law.

Thank you to the generous donors who are supporting local journalism and the Boyne Citizen!

> We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization. Donate online here, or mail a check to Boyne Citizen, PO Box 83, Boyne City MI 49712.

2026 Donors

This week's new donors are listed in bold.

2025 Donors

Avalanche Donors

$500-$999

Stowe Family Fund

Frank and Chris Carleton

Lynne Ross

Bud and Nancy Shear

Ashley Cousens

Richard Bergmann

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Paula Larson
Sally Hara

Steve and Jean Van Dam

Martin Tuck

Brienna Roberts

Lake Charlevoix Donors

$100 to $499

Bekah Rutz and David Osterhouse

Karen Colburn

Monica Peck

Karen S. Mertz

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Heaton Veterinary Hospital

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Carol and Steve Persons

John Van Etten

Nancy Blandford

Anne Nemes

Charles Gremel

Mike and Liz Durbin

Rachel and Rocky Swiss

Ralph Gillette

Kathleen Warner 

Karen Reynolds

Kimberly Altobello MacNaughton

Mike and Cheryl Delahanty

Diane M. Winchell

Nancy Cunningham

The Spang Family

Bob and Jackie Wollenberg

Stephen Wickens

John G. Jessup

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James Richman

John Stimpson

Larry Taylor

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Skip Simms

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Peter Moss

Gregory Damman

Polly Stillson

Anonymous

Rolf Bates

Robert SontagLauren MacIntyre

Cameron O'Keefe

Cheryl and Joe Wald

Ralph and Kathleen Galbraith

Tom and Debbie Neidhamer

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Lynda Christensen

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Scott and Kelly Kennedy

Karen and Glenn Mertz

Christopher Jones

Brian and Charlotte Battjes

Kyle Marshall
Dave Skornia

Barbara and George Ellwanger

Beth and Jeff Freeman

Nancy and Steve Weber

JoEllen Rudolph

Derek & Michelle Shankland
Janice Salisbury

Mary Foucard

John and Jane Rozycki

(continued next column)

Lake Charlevoix Donors (continued)

$100 to $499

Ruth and Dave Skop

Diane Carmony
Ali Cain
Jerry and Donna Swift
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Mindy Weigel

John and Jan Bennish

Anonymous

Thomas Smith

Sharon MacJennett

Gary Cofer

Patrick Turcott

Marilyn Cousineau

Carol Ross

Jim and Kelly McKee

Jeffery and Julie Bradford

Nancy Hellman and Glenn Hindbaugh

Carlin Smith

Denise M. Brown

Robert Kirk

Melissa Herbst

Craig and Terri Reynolds

Sunset Beach Donors

$60- $99

Linda Larsen

Jack Laurent

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Vera Post

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Marilyn Cousineau

Rebecca Miller

JoEllen Rudolph

Lynn Hall

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Clarence Rivette

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"Friends of the Boyne Citizen"

Wirt-Rivette Group & MOXIE Development

Terry and Betty Desmond

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$5 to $59

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Jenell Kelsey Pawlus - A Storage Closet

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Kenneth Graham and Eileen Couchman

Frances Wolf

Lisa and Randy Zipp
Richard Persiani
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Bill Schumann

Ronald and Susan Ludgin

Sharyn and Doug Bean

Karla and Sheldon Buckmaster

Michelle Mitchum

Jerry Mann

Suzanne Skubick

Brigit Anthony

Rodger and Janet Smith

2024 Donors are listed on our website.

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.

> Open bowling: 3-9 p.m. Tuesdays, 3-10 p.m. Fridays, 12-10 p.m. Saturdays, 12-9 p.m. Sundays.

> LIVE MUSIC Saturdays:

• Saturday, Jan. 17 - Peril, 8-11 p.m.
• Saturday, Jan. 24 - Yankee Station, 8-11 p.m.

BOYNE ARTS CENTER - 1 Water Street, Suite 203, Boyne City. (231) 622-2073.

> Upcoming classes and exhibits:

• Betty Adgate Exhibit reception - Friday, January 16, 5-7 p.m. The exhibit runs from January 16 through February 14.
• Book a Private Art Party
• Demo Night with Julie Hermann - Feb. 19 
• Painting with Wool - March 10
• Nature Journaling - March 21

BOYNE CITY FARMERS MARKET - Indoors at the Veterans Park Pavilion, 207 N. Lake Street, Boyne City. (231) 582-9009. Open every Saturday, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

> Live music 10 a.m. to 12 noon Saturdays:

• Jan. 17 - John Richard Paul
• Jan. 31 - Terry Coveyou

BOYNE CITY TAP ROOM - 220 S. Lake St., Boyne City, (231) 459-4487.

• Mondays - Trivia
• Thursdays - Adam and the Cabana Boys, 7 p.m.
• Fridays - Patrick Ryan and Josh Raber, 7 p.m.
• Saturdays - Patrick Ryan, 7 p.m.
• Saturdays and Sundays - college and NFL football. Food and beverage specials during games. Sports on all screens Sundays.
• SPECIAL EVENT on Thursday, Jan. 19 - 90s Night with Adam and the Cabana Boys, 7-10 p.m. Join us as we travel back to the music of the decade that brought us from cassettes to mp3s, encyclopedias to the internet, and MTV actually playing music videos! Details.

BOYNE DISTRICT LIBRARY - 201 East Main St., Boyne City, 231-582-7861.

• January newsletter highlights

BOYNE MOUNTAIN - 1 Boyne Mountain Rd., Boyne Falls, (855) 688-7024.

> Weekly schedule of events and entertainment at all Boyne Mountain venues.

BOYNE RIVER INN - 229 Water St., Boyne City, (231) 222-4053.

LIVE MUSIC:

• Thursdays in January - Nelson Olstrom performs, 7-10 p.m.

BOYNE VALLEY VINEYARDS - 05325 US 131 S, Petoskey, (231) 373-2090.

> LIVE MUSIC - Saturdays 2-6 p.m.

• Saturday, Jan. 17 - Chris Calleja
• Saturday, Jan. 24 - Michelle Chenard
• Saturday, Jan. 31 - TBD

CAFE SANTE - 1 Water St., Boyne City, (231) 582-8800.

> LIVE MUSIC:

• Friday, Jan. 16 - Chris Calleja, 7-10 p.m.
• Saturday, Jan. 17 - Lavender Lions Duo, 7-10 p.m.
• Monday, Jan. 19 - The Shifties, 6-9 p.m.
• Friday, Jan. 23 - Chris Calleja, 7-10 p.m.
• Saturday, Jan. 24 - Sean Bielby, 7-10 p.m.
• Monday, Jan. 26 - The Shifties, 6-9 p.m.
• Friday, Jan. 30 - Nelson Olstrom, 7-10 p.m.
• Saturday, Jan. 31 - Sean Bielby, 7-10 p.m.

CROOKED TREE ARTS CENTER - 461 E. Mitchell Street. Petoskey, (231) 347-4337.

> See website for updated art shows, entertainment, and children's activities.

• An update to our Downtown Sound performing arts series schedule - due to a scheduling conflict, Rodney Whitaker had to cancel his January 17 Downtown Sound concert. We have booked the Jeff Haas Quintet for January 31 as a replacement event. 
• Tickets range from $10 to $35 and are available at www.crookedtree.org/downtownsound or by calling (231) 347-4337.

FRESHWATER GALLERY & CONCERT VENUE - 217 S Lake St., Boyne City, (231) 582-2588. 

• Saturday, Feb. 14 - Full Cord, award-winning Michigan bluegrass band.
• Saturday, March 14 - Susan Werner, Chicago singer-songwriter.
• Saturday, April 18 - Willie Nile, New York singer-songwriter.
• May concert to be announced.

GREAT LAKES CENTER FOR THE ARTS - 800 Bay Harbor Drive, Petoskey, (231) 439 -2600.

• See website for movies on the big screen in January.
• Feb. 5 - The Acting Company presents: A Midsummer Night’s Dream - Details and tickets

LAKE STREET PUB - 202 S. Lake St., Boyne City, (231) 497-6031.

> TRIVIA NIGHT - Wednesdays, 7-9 p.m.

MUSKRAT DISTILLING - 121 Water St., Boyne City, (231) 268-0178.

> KARAOKE - 8 to 11 p.m. every Wednesday

> LIVE MUSIC and events:

• Friday, Jan. 16 - Live music with the Shifties, 8-11 p.m.
• Monday, Jan. 19 - Lit with Literature: Glow of the Everflame by Penn Cole, 7-9 p.m.
• Friday, Jan. 30 - Live music with Dave Cisco, 8-11 p.m.

PIED PIPER ROLLER RINK - 04454 M-75 N, Walloon Lake. Admission $8, skate rental $2. Candy, chips, soda/pop, and pizza available for purchase. 

• Fridays through Jan. 23 - Adult Skate 18+, 5-9 p.m.
• Friday, Jan. 30 - All-ages skate event from 5-10:30 p.m. Members of the West Michigan Skate Crew will join us at 8 p.m., for skate enthusiasts who want to see and skate with some experienced skaters.
• Saturdays in January - Family Skate (all ages), 2-6 p.m.

STIGGS BREWERY & KITCHEN - 112 S. Park St., Boyne City, (231) 497-6100. Closed Mondays and Tuesdays for the winter.

• Saturday, Jan. 17, 1 p.m. - Fat & Flurrious Fat Tire Bike Race Awards.
• Saturday, Jan. 17, Celebrate Stiggs' 9th Anniversary with activities and food and drink specials throughout the day.
• Thursday, Jan. 22 - Open Mic Night with Nelson Olstrom, 6-9 p.m.

WALLOON WATERSHED - 4128 M-75 , Walloon Lake, (231) 535-6048.

Live music 6-9 p.m.:

• Wednesdays - Pete Kehoe
• Thursdays - Laura Crowe

The Boyne Citizen

P.O. Box 83, Boyne City, MI 49712

Email: jim@boynecitizen.com

Phone: 231-675-8793

© Copyright 2026 Boyne Citizen, all rights reserved