View as Webpage

October 2, 2025 | Issue #54 | Past issues

Big crowd for candidates forum

Housing, transparency and leadership were the central themes at the Boyne City Commission candidates forum on Monday, Sept. 29, where four of the five candidates vying for three open seats laid out their visions for the city’s future. See our story below for details.

Inside this issue...

• Candidates clash on issues at public forum
• City manager negotiations collapse; Job reposted
• County Board again discusses trail funding
• Oct. 9 hearing on Parks and Recreation plan
• Preston Feather and Barden Lumber unite
• Walloon residents push back on dredging project
• Former county deputy accepts plea deal
• Driver loses consciousness, crashes at McDonald’s
• We’re still feeling effects of ice storm 6 months later
• Blues, brews and bonfires for Skitoberfest 
• Hidden Blossoms to host open house Oct. 8
• Veterans Memorial clean-up before construction
• Member Appreciation Night at Arts Center
• Mobile Secretary of State to visit Library Monday
• Turkey drive aims to feed families for Thanksgiving
• Night Sky: The splendor of Perseus Double Cluster
• Patrick McCleary history: Harriet's pioneer experience
• News briefs, Obituaries, and Municipal News
• Thanks to the donors who keep the news coming!
• Music and entertainment listings

> Like this email? Forward it to a friend and help us grow.

If they like it, they can subscribe here.

Details and more photos

Sponsored post

Boyne City Mayor Tim Nemecek brought stacks of annual budgets, audits, agenda packets, training materials, engineering reports and notebooks to the Sept. 29 candidates forum to illustrate the preparation and work he said he has put in during his four years on the commission.

City candidates clash on housing, leadership and transparency at public forum

By Annie Doyle Grove, annie@boynecitizen.com

Housing, transparency and leadership were the central themes at the Boyne City Commission candidates forum on Monday, Sept. 29, where four of the five candidates vying for three open seats laid out their visions for the city’s future.

Incumbent mayor Tim Nemecek and challengers Bridget Foltz, Jennifer Beano Hampton and Rebecca “Becky” Houser appeared before voters at City Hall, while Brian Kennedy withdrew from the forum for personal reasons. The event was co-sponsored by the Boyne Area Chamber of Commerce, the Boyne Citizen and the League of Women Voters of Northern Lower Michigan, and livestreamed on the city’s Facebook page. Watch the forum video here. 

Opening statements: tone and priorities

Foltz opened with a blunt critique of city leadership, calling the commission itself the source of many problems. “Overwhelmingly, the problem is the lack of leadership,” she said. Pointing to the city’s stalled search for a permanent manager, she added, “Boyne City is in deep trouble if we don’t have a city manager to help solve our problems.”

Hampton, who works at a Red Mesa Grill and comes from a Boyne City family, put housing at the center of her campaign. “Young through elderly [are] being priced out of housing,” she said. “The backbone of the community [is] forced to leave.” She also noted that neglected infrastructure projects are costing more and taking longer, adding that the city needs greater transparency.

Houser, general manager at Muskrat Distilling, said she was motivated to run by a change in the city’s reputation. “I feel like there is a lot of negativity associated with our town right now,” she said. “This used to be a city that companies used to fight to work here… and that’s not the case anymore.” Housing, she added, is a pressing concern she sees every day in the hospitality industry.

Nemecek highlighted accomplishments during his tenure, including lowering the city’s millage rate, securing funding for water and sewer upgrades, and promoting transparency by investing in meeting broadcasts. He said his leadership experience on regional boards has given Boyne City access to tools, resources and funding. He was recently elected to the board of directors of the Michigan Association of Mayors.

The role of a commissioner and leadership

When asked to define the role of a city commissioner, candidates returned again to the theme of leadership.

Foltz said commissioners must focus on fiscal responsibility while respecting staff. “Leadership involves recognizing the strengths of others… It’s not about demonstration of power over others. We have to work together,” she said.

Hampton described the commission as a guiding body rather than one that micromanages. “If your staff is failing, then you’re failing,” she said.

Houser stressed the importance of hiring and oversight, pointing to the commission’s role in selecting the right city manager. Nemecek called the position “multifaceted,” highlighting his own service on state and county boards that he said has brought knowledge and funding back to Boyne City.

Turnover and stability in city staff

Recent turnover in city management was another major issue.

Nemecek defended the changes, saying they stemmed from performance problems. “The turnover that you’re seeing now is a result of job performance. I’ll just leave it at that,” he said, while emphasizing his commitment to transparency.

Foltz countered that city employees “need to be respected as professionals and not micromanaged.” Hampton and Houser said staff departures often come from poor communication and a lack of support from leadership.

Housing affordability

Housing drew some of the night’s longest and most detailed answers.

Nemecek outlined several steps the city has already taken, including inventorying city-owned property, rezoning land in north Boyne, and preparing the community garden site for development while preserving part of it as park space. He also said Brownfield/TIF agreements could be used to prioritize housing for teachers and healthcare workers.

Foltz said the first priority must be hiring a permanent city manager to move stalled projects forward. “The first thing I would do is hire a city manager,” she said. “I would focus on solving problems instead of finding them.”

Hampton recalled her own struggles finding a home in Boyne City despite working two jobs, saying she knows firsthand how difficult the market has become for families. She added that zoning changes and new models seen in other towns could expand options.

Houser, a business manager, supported projects like the north Boyne development and said new housing should be walkable to jobs, noting that many local service workers now commute long distances.

Infrastructure projects

Candidates also weighed in on infrastructure needs. 

Nemecek pointed to the $12.8 million sewer force main replacement as an example of overdue work, saying the city is now “on year 30 of a 25-year system.” He also noted challenges at the marina and airport, and the city’s new Capital Improvement Plan, which calls for paving all unpaved streets in the next 10 years.

Foltz said gravel streets and aging water and sewer lines must be replaced and argued the city should pursue grants to avoid raising taxes. Hampton acknowledged residents’ frustrations over roadwork but said the work is long overdue. Houser agreed, saying the improvements, though disruptive, are necessary to support future housing growth.

Tourism and short-term rentals

Tourism’s benefits and drawbacks were a flashpoint.

Foltz said she would rely on community input to keep balance: “We want to foster tourists, but we don’t want to lose the sense of who we are and our small-town feel.” Hampton supported limiting vacation rentals, saying too many homes have been diverted from families. Houser said the city must find “a happy medium” between the needs of tourists and locals.

On short-term rentals specifically, Foltz, Hampton and Houser all opposed raising the current cap of 130 units in traditional residential neighborhoods, and possibly lowering that number as rental licenses expire. Nemecek called the issue “a double-edged sword,” warning that Boyne City’s limited hotel capacity makes rentals essential. “We can ban them, but it will destroy our economy,” he said.

The Boyne Theater

The long-vacant downtown theater also came up.

Houser said she would like to see a nonprofit formed to restore and manage the building. Nemecek, noting the theater had been tied up in lawsuits and technical challenges, said Boyne City could follow the nonprofit theater models used in Frankfurt and Harbor Springs. Foltz highlighted ownership complications, pointing out that while Main Street paid $350,000 for the theater, the city still holds the deed.

Master plan and meeting efficiency

On the newly adopted 2025 Master Plan, all four candidates agreed housing is the top priority. Foltz also noted that residents identified downtown vitality and family-sustaining jobs as key concerns in surveys.

Asked about three-hour commission meetings, Nemecek said he supports efficiency but will not cut off public comment. Foltz argued commissioners should prepare better in advance: “Commissioners get their packet a few days prior… They’re responsible for reviewing that packet and then asking the questions [beforehand].” Hampton and Houser agreed.

First-year priorities

In their closing answers, candidates outlined what they would do first if elected.

Nemecek said he would focus on creating a welcoming, collaborative environment for the new commission while continuing his work on housing and financial policies. Foltz and Houser both made hiring a city manager their top priority. Hampton said her focus would be on organizing priorities so the commission can work from the same page.

Brian Kennedy

All five candidates initially confirmed that they would attend the forum, but Brian Kennedy notified forum organizers on Sept. 26 that he would be unable to attend, sending a text message that said: “I regret that I am unable to attend the Forum as I will be downstate, moving my mother into an assisted living facility. We received word from the assisted living facility about the vacancy, last minute, late this week and my family scrambled to accommodate that move. No small task, I can tell you. It is not lost on me, the work it takes to organize and manage this Forum, so please accept both my apology for missing it, and my thanks for all your hard work and terrific effort. In my absence, I humbly ask that this letter be read to the Forum and attendees.” Here is Kennedy’s letter.

The questions

Here is the list of the questions that were asked during the Candidates Forum. Each  candidate was asked to answer in one minute. They were also given two minutes for an opening statement and two minutes for a closing statement. No candidates were given the questions ahead of time.

Election ahead

Voters will decide among Foltz, Hampton, Houser, Kennedy and Nemecek for three four-year seats on the Boyne City Commission in the Nov. 4 election. Absentee ballots were mailed Sept. 12 and are available at City Hall to anyone who would like one.

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.

City manager negotiations collapse; Job reposted with Oct. 13 deadline

By Annie Doyle Grove, annie@boynecitizen.com

After weeks of uncertainty and stalled talks, Boyne City’s effort to hire Interim City Manager John Matthews for the permanent role has officially collapsed. The breakdown came after Matthews refused to sign a second background check without a finalized contract in hand, while commissioners offered him a salary lower than what he had sought. The requested second check was described as more in-depth than the first and designed to reveal details not included in the initial review.

This marks the second failed attempt to fill the city’s top administrative job since longtime city manager Mike Cain was fired in March after 22 years of service. Cain has since filed a wrongful termination lawsuit against the city.

Negotiations unravel

Matthews, who has served as interim city manager since June, was initially bypassed when the permanent job was offered to Saline Deputy City manager Elle Cole in July. Cole declined for personal reasons, and Matthews was later offered the post. But contract negotiations quickly became strained.

At the Sept. 23 City Commission meeting, Mayor Tim Nemecek said commissioners set a clear condition: Matthews had until noon the following day to sign the background check before the city would present him with its counteroffer to his proposed contract terms.

“I was under the impression the commission and the attorney were on the same page — that John would get those emails Tuesday morning and simply sign the background,” Nemecek said. “But he did not.”

Instead, Matthews refused, saying he would not sign until there was an employment contract in place.

“The City Commission and I have not reached agreement on the employment contract terms, particularly around compensation,” Matthews said in a statement to the Boyne Citizen. “In the meantime, I remain dedicated to serving the community to the best of my ability, until the permanent city manager is in place. For clarity, a full background check and drug test were completed when I became interim city manager.”

The delay came as commissioners weighed Matthews’ counteroffer, which included a compensation package of $229,000 — nearly 28% higher than the $179,000 package received by former city manager Cain.

Matthews added that he intends to oversee the transition once a new hire is made. “I will continue to do whatever I have to do to make sure Boyne City is successful,” he said.

Job reposted

With the impasse, the city this week reposted the city manager position. Applications are due by 9 p.m. on Oct. 13. Candidates are asked to submit a resume and five professional references by email to recruitment@ThinkAboutPivot.com with the subject line “Boyne City.” The search is being facilitated by Pivot Group Municipal Services.

The position offers a salary of $130,000 to $150,000, along with retirement and health benefits through MERS, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Delta Dental and VSP Vision. According to the posting, the ideal candidate will be experienced in municipal administration and strategic planning, skilled in financial management and infrastructure planning and a strong communicator focused on transparency and community engagement.

Boyne City, with a population of about 3,829, operates with a total budget of $24 million and a general fund budget of $6 million. The city employs 33 full-time and 65 part-time staff.

www.C3F.org

Sponsored post

County Board again discusses BC-Charlevoix trail funding but takes no action

By Carole Shane, cjshane@charter.net 

Phases 4 and 5 of the Boyne City to Charlevoix Non-Motorized Trail came under discussion once again at the Sept. 24 meeting of the Charlevoix County Board of Commissioners. Five of the six board members heard public comment in support of moving forward with the final two phases of what is often referred to as “the bike trail.” Commissioner Anne-Marie Conway was absent.

Steve Van Dam, a resident of Bay Township, cited updated numbers from Phase 3, stating that the county’s outlay of $21,000 for Phase 3 is “a pittance” compared to the total cost of the $1,182,566 project, which was largely funded by grants from local and state agencies. 

Van Dam brought the concept of “linear parks” to the discussion, saying that a linear park is one that is significantly longer than it is wide with long, narrow greenways for recreational use. Van Dam asserted that the bike trail is a park, similar to the way Whiting Park is a park, but linear. Whiting Park, with beach, camping, bathrooms, boat launch, and hiking trails, has long been funded and maintained with county funds.

At earlier meetings, Commissioners Josh Chamberlain, Scott Hankins and Tim Kenney have stated that citizens in their districts do not support further development of the Boyne City to Charlevoix trail since it does not run through their part of the county. Van Dam countered that argument, noting that he and other county residents who are not in close proximity to Whiting Park don’t have convenient access and benefit from that county asset, yet all taxpayers fund it. 

Led by Commissioner Robert Jess, the board continued their discussion of whether they should move forward with at least the initial surveying and engineering work for Phases 4 and 5, with Hankins and Christensen expressing concern that the budget stalemate in Lansing makes eventual reimbursement from MDOT and DNR grants uncertain. 

The discussion included possible alternatives for funding the county’s portion of the trail, such as putting a bike trail millage on the ballot for county voters to decide, using money from the existing parks millage, or asking for an increase in the parks millage with a portion allocated to completing the Non-Motorized Trail.

Jess expressed his view that while he is elected to the Board of Commissioners by people in his district, he is also an official for the entire county and chooses to approach issues with consideration of what is good for the county as a whole, not just his home district. 

Ultimately, no action was taken but the commissioners did seem amenable to continuing the discussion and possibly reconsidering their previous decision to halt initiation of Phases 4 and 5 by voting down a proposed contract from Wade Trim for the initial engineering work.

Commissioner Hankins advised all county employees that they must clear financial information with the county’s financial officer before posting any numbers to the county’s website.

Matthew Cooke from Networks Northwest gave an update on Materials Management Planning and Data Review. Of note, according to Michigan EGLE’s annual report of Solid Waste Landfills in Michigan, Charlevoix County generated 242,114 tons of waste, most of it falling into the industrial waste category. The amount of waste is significantly higher than that of neighboring counties. Commissioner Hankins questioned the discrepancy, wondering if it came from the decommissioning of the East Jordan Iron Works. Cooke was uncertain of the cause but agreed to look into it and report back.

In other business, the board approved:

• A “Resolution Opposing House of Representatives’ FY26 Budget Cuts to County Revenue Sharing”
• Contract Change Order #3 with Gosling-Czubak (with potential for reimbursement) for Phase 3 of the non-motorized trail
• $55,000/12 months to pay an independently contracted Court Compliance Officer
• East Jordan Senior Center Lease Renewal
• MSU Extension Agreement
• Friend of the Court Referee Contract
• Two resolutions allowing the Fiscal Officer to make budget amendments resolving budget deficits
• CCE 911 Capital Improvement Plan
• 2025 Winter Tax Rate Request

> The next Charlevoix County Commission meeting is scheduled for 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 8 at the Shirley Roloff Center.

Last chance to weigh in on Boyne City Parks and Recreation plan, Oct. 9

By Annie Doyle Grove, annie@boynecitizen.com 

What do residents want from Boyne City’s parks? More trails, better upkeep and above all, access to the water. Those were the top takeaways from a citywide survey this spring — and now, leaders are inviting the community back for one final say. “We might get one last missed gem that we hadn’t included in the plan,” said Parks and Recreation Commission Chair Pete Friedrich, ahead of the Thursday, Oct. 9 final public hearing on the city’s draft Parks and Recreation Master Plan. The meeting begins at 5 p.m. at City Hall during the commission’s regular session.

Community voices shape the plan

In part, the master plan update is built on feedback from 236 residents who completed an online survey in April. The majority of participants — 84% — were full-time Boyne City residents, while 16% were part-time.

When asked about priorities, 89 respondents strongly agreed that parks and recreation should be a high priority for city leaders, with another 44 somewhat agreeing. A strong majority also supported improving existing parks rather than buying new land. Passive recreation — such as trails, picnic areas and lake access — ranked higher than new sports complexes or large-scale facilities.

Visitation numbers showed how central certain parks are to daily life. Avalanche Park and Veterans Memorial Park were among the most heavily used, while smaller sites like Ridge Run Dog Park and some of the road-end parks had far lower awareness and use.

Spotlight on the waterfront

One of the clearest calls from residents was for better access to Lake Charlevoix. That message has helped renew the city’s focus on its often-overlooked road-end parks — small strips of public land where neighborhood streets meet the shoreline.

“For years, the road-end parks have been there, but nobody paid attention to them,” Friedrich said. “We’re fortunate in Boyne City to have more shoreline public access than most towns in northern Michigan. We just want to make sure that what belongs to the public stays public and everybody can enjoy the waterfront.”

Boyne City’s master plan lists several of these road-end sites, each a quarter- to half-acre in size. The water access sites include:

• Woodland Street Road End  — .25 acre, water access
• Shady Lane Road End  — .25 acre, water access
• Bay (West) Street Road End — .25 acre, water access
• John Street Road End  — .25 acre, water access
• Charlevoix Street Road End — .25 acre, water access with benches

In the past year, the Department of Public Works has installed markers at road ends to clarify boundaries between public and private property, while county grant funding supported new stairways at two sites, improving safe access into the water.

Budget and oversight

Parks and recreation is not a small investment for Boyne City. In the current budget year, the city allocated $2.47 million — more than 40% of its general fund — to maintain, operate and improve parks.

Oversight falls to the eight-member Parks and Recreation Commission, which advises the City Commission. The Department of Public Works manages day-to-day operations, employing full-time park workers and seasonal staff for summer maintenance and marina duties. Friedrich said one long-term goal is to establish a dedicated Parks and Recreation Department, which could free up staff to focus more closely on planning, grant writing and long-range upkeep.

How to participate

City Commission liaison Bob Ferrell said the master plan reflects just how much parks mean to the community. “Parks and Rec are like the crown jewel for Boyne City,” Ferrell said. “It’s one of the key assets for the city.”

The draft master plan is available online, and hard copies can be viewed at City Hall. Residents who can’t attend the Oct. 9 hearing may submit comments by Oct. 8 to Executive Assistant Jennifer Eads at jeads@boynecity.gov or by mail to 319 N. Lake Street, Boyne City, MI 49712.

The city has made a renewed focus on its often-overlooked road-end parks — placing signs on the small strips of public land where neighborhood streets meet the shoreline.

Sponsored post

Sponsored post

Two centuries, one future: Preston Feather and Barden Lumber unite

Two of northern Michigan’s longest-tenured building industry companies, Preston Feather and Barden Lumber, have come together in a move that they say “honors a shared past while building a stronger future.”

Preston Feather Building Centers, a family-owned company founded in 1915, has announced its acquisition of Barden Lumber, the Boyne City-based supplier that has served contractors and homeowners since 1922, effective Oct. 4. Together, the companies bring more than 200 years of combined experience, relationships, and regional commitment to the building industry.

“This isn’t about replacing a legacy, it’s about carrying it forward,” said Rachel Huntman, president and owner of Preston Feather. “For over 103 years, Barden Lumber has remained under the stewardship of the same family, demonstrating resilience and enduring success across generations. They have always stood for people, relationships, and community. Those same values are at the heart of who we are, too.”

For Paul Barden, fourth-generation president and owner of Barden Lumber, the partnership is about continuity and intention. "When our family began thinking seriously about my retirement and the future of Barden Lumber, Preston Feather was my natural first choice,” Barden said. 

“We share the same values, vision, and commitment to this region as Preston Feather. It will also be an ideal fit for our employees and customers, who have been our top priority for this transition.” To help make this transition as smooth as possible, Paul Barden will remain actively involved during the integration period, which the company says will ensure “continuity for customers, employees, and the community.”

With the addition of Barden Lumber, Preston Feather now operates locations in Petoskey, Gaylord, Harbor Springs, Boyne City, and Traverse City. In 2024, the company was named LBM Journal’s Dealer of the Year, recognized for “blending long-standing tradition with forward-thinking service and innovation.”

As part of its continued investment in Northern Michigan, Preston Feather is also doubling its operations in Traverse City with a new 30,000-square-foot distribution and logistics facility, which will strengthen supply chains and enhance service capabilities for customers across the region.

“At the end of the day, what sets us apart is our people, our values, and the relationships we’ve built in the communities we serve,” Rachel Huntman said. Learn more at prestonfeather.com.

Some may wonder: “Why isn’t Asuka taking it over?"

Asuka Barden (pictured above) posted this candid and heartfelt statement about the sale of Barden Lumber on Facebook on Sept. 29, the day the sale to Preston Feather was announced:

Some may be wondering “Why isn’t Asuka taking it over from her father Paul as the 5th generation of the 103-year-old family business?” 

This is my statement, exclusively for Boyne City News and Buzz. This is a picture of my father, Paul Barden. Every morning, he opens up the store long before most are even awake. He vacuums the rugs, empties the trash, and fires up the cash registers… just for starters. He jokes that he only works half-days: 12 hours. As a guy who grew up with multiple injuries from playing in the neighborhoods up on Lincoln Street, crashing his sled at Barn Mountain, serving honorably in the United States military, and 40 years working down at “the shed,” he’s ready to give his body a break. He is ready to retire.

This is a picture of the dedication and grit that it takes for a small business owner to run a successful independent business. We truly have been a small business of only 12 employees, and his role has been far more than a full-time responsibility. It’s a responsibility that I decided I do not want.

> Read Asuka's full statement.

ABOVE: Baidas property on Eagle Island Road, where a proposed dredging project to connect a pond to Walloon Lake has sparked concern from residents and officials. Provided by EGLE.

BELOW: Annotated aerial image of the pond on the Eagle Island Road property, showing wetland areas near the shoreline where dredging has been proposed. Provided by EGLE.

Walloon Lake residents push back against proposed wetland dredging project

By Annie Doyle Grove, annie@boynecitizen.com

A controversial dredging proposal on Walloon Lake has triggered a wave of concern from neighbors and environmental advocates, who warn that the project could permanently damage sensitive wetlands and water quality on the iconic northern Michigan lake.

Property owner Rob Baidas, who purchased the nearly 40-acre parcel at 2594 Eagle Island Road in 2022 for $2.79 million, is seeking state approval to dredge a channel from a pond on his land to Walloon Lake. The property includes 700 feet of lake frontage in Bay Township.

Permit request follows earlier violation notice

According to state records, Baidas has already drawn scrutiny from regulators. In December 2024, the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) issued him a violation notice after inspectors observed unauthorized clearing and filling of about one acre of wetlands, along with nearly two acres of mechanized vegetation removal in a forested wetland. Both activities are regulated under state law.

On Aug. 6, EGLE’s Water Resources Division announced that Baidas had formally applied for a dredging permit. The request seeks authorization to remove 2,490 cubic yards of material from 0.31 acres of wetland pond, including roughly 0.1 acre of submerged near-shore wetlands, to create a navigable channel. Plans call for dredging to a depth of 15 feet within the pond and 10 feet at the outlet, plus an additional 109 cubic yards from a 147-foot-long, 20-foot-wide channel connecting the pond to the lake.

Public alarm grows

News of the project spread quickly among residents after it appeared on the Walloon Lake community Facebook page in late August. Many residents submitted comments to EGLE urging the state to deny the permit.

One of the strongest objections came from longtime resident and environmental biochemist John Marklewitz, who has tested Walloon Lake water quality weekly for more than a decade.

“This wetlands destruction of Eagle Island will be a disaster for our watershed aquifer filtration,” Marklewitz wrote to EGLE. “No matter what the ‘precautions’ taken, they cannot mediate the basic ecological destruction that will occur. This simply must not happen.”

Marklewitz noted that his family has lived on Walloon Lake for nearly a century, and he pointed to worsening water quality trends driven by shoreline development, boat traffic, and climate change.

Hearing expected this fall

In a Sept. 2 update to residents, EGLE analyst Keri Kent confirmed that the agency had received multiple requests for a public hearing on the proposal. A virtual hearing is expected in the second half of October, with a permitting decision possible by mid-November.

“We have received multiple requests for a public hearing on the subject,” Kent wrote. “When our decision is made, you will be able to find the results via our MiEnviro Site Explorer.”

All residents who submitted comments will be notified of the hearing date.

Township officials voice concern

Bay Township supervisor Xavier “X” Gaudard said the project raises red flags for the community.

“We’re just really concerned about this project and the effects it may have on Walloon Lake,” Gaudard said.

Former county corrections officer accepts plea deal; Felony charges dropped

By Annie Doyle Grove, annie@boynecitizen.com 

Former Charlevoix County Sheriff’s Department corrections officer Jamie Paul Breithaupt has struck a plea deal that drops two felony charges and leaves him facing two misdemeanors, following a district court hearing before Judge Angela Lasher on Sept. 30.

Breithaupt, 47, of Alanson, had initially pleaded not guilty to misconduct in office and larceny in a building — felonies carrying maximum sentences of five and four years, respectively — as well as one misdemeanor count of larceny by conversion under $200.

Under the agreement reached with the Charlevoix County Prosecutor’s Office, Breithaupt pleaded guilty to two misdemeanors: willful neglect of duty by a public officer, a one-year misdemeanor carrying up to a $1,000 fine, and larceny by conversion under $200.

Investigation began with misconduct allegations

The case against Breithaupt began more than a year ago, when allegations surfaced that he engaged in inappropriate sexual relationships with female inmates while serving as a corrections officer at the Charlevoix County Jail. The sheriff’s department launched an internal investigation that lasted nearly a year and included multiple interviews with inmates and staff.

Although the investigation confirmed that Breithaupt passed notes between inmates and improperly provided one with access to a phone card, no criminal sexual conduct charges were filed. He left the role at the Sheriff’s Department  in August 2024, and he now serves as the village president in Alanson.

Admission in court

During Tuesday’s plea hearing, Breithaupt admitted that on July 31, 2024, he took a $20 phone card from the jail’s control room and gave it to an inmate. Prosecutors emphasized that this act was not part of his official duties, and Breithaupt acknowledged the misconduct before the court.

Judge Lasher accepted the plea and ordered a pre-sentence investigation, with sentencing to be scheduled at a later date.

Driver loses consciousness, crashes into woman in vehicle at Boyne City McDonald’s

A 70-year-old woman was seriously injured Saturday evening, Sept. 27, when a driver lost consciousness and plowed into her as she sat in the McDonald’s parking lot at 1112 Boyne Ave., according to Boyne City Police Chief Kevin Spate.

The female driver was heading west into town from the BC Pizza direction when she blacked out, left the roadway, and struck the woman, who was waiting for food in her car. The impact pushed the victim’s vehicle into another parked car.

Chief Spate said the injured woman was rushed to the hospital “in not good condition” but is expected to recover, though the process will be difficult given her age.

The driver was also transported for medical evaluation. Police are pursuing possible charges for driving under the influence of drugs.

The ice storm that hit northern Michigan last spring toppled millions of trees. Some residents are still dealing with debris on their properties. (Photo courtesy of Evangeline Township resident Michelle Cortright)

Northern Michigan still feeling effects of ice storm six months later

By Laura Herberg and Alvin AJ Jones WCMU

September 29, 2025

From Bridge Michigan: It’s been six months since a disastrous ice storm swept through northern Michigan, but 82-year-old Karen Morgan, of Indian River, said she has a broken window pane she’s yet to fix and a tree she’s worried might fall on her carport.

“It costs so much money to have a tree service come. It’s thousands and thousands of dollars,” Morgan said. 

Thousands and thousands she doesn’t have. 

“It’s frustrating,” she said.

The storm toppled millions of trees, knocked out power to tens of thousands of customers, interrupted cell service, and made road travel difficult. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer declared a state of emergency for the storm days after it hit.

While the ice melted long ago, many residents like Morgan are still dealing with effects from the storm, from piles of brush to home repairs. Social service agencies are seeing higher-than-normal requests for help, while utility companies may raise rates to recoup the millions they spent repairing damaged lines.

A Habitat for Humanity leader said he’s still getting calls and stop-ins from people trying to make repairs. 

“There’s a great deal of desperation in their voices when they come in here,” Ted Fines said. “They’re scared.”

Limited funds

Besides money from insurance, direct financial help for residents is limited. There are some federal loans available to individuals and other federal money for farmers and private forest owners, but that’s about it.

President Donald Trump approved $50 million. That money is designated for local governments and nonprofits. Whitmer appealed, seeking funds for utilities and individuals, but that hasn’t yet been approved.

The state House approved a bill that would give $100 million to individuals, businesses and communities, but the state Senate hasn’t acted on it.

“I find it very frustrating that the Senate has done little more than pay lip-service to our requests,” bill sponsor state Rep. Parker Fairbairn, R-Harbor Springs, said in a written statement to Bridge. 

Habitat for Humanity Northeast Michigan, where Fines is the executive director, has been trying to help people pay for home repairs — mostly roofs. They use grants or let people pay in installments. 

Folks are still coming in, seeking help with projects related to the storm, usually to fill gaps in what their insurance doesn’t cover.

“They can ill afford to be down for any length of time, and then the damages to their houses was extraordinary,” Fines said.

> Full story from Bridge Michigan. Bridge Michigan reporter Simon D. Schuster contributed to this story. This reporting is made possible by the Northern Michigan Journalism Project, led by Bridge Michigan and Interlochen Public Radio, and funded by Press Forward Northern Michigan.

Pumpkin smashing is just one of the many activities planned for this weekend.

Blues, brews and bonfires: Jelly Roll kicks off Skitoberfest at Boyne Mountain

Boyne Mountain Resort will toast the season Oct. 3-5 with the 16th annual Skitoberfest, a fall tradition that mixes Oktoberfest flair with a mountain-town celebration of winter’s return.

The Jelly Roll Blues Band will headline opening night, playing from 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 3. Known for their soulful blend of blues and rock, the band will set the tone for a weekend filled with live music, food, contests and family activities.

Visitors can dig into Bavarian-inspired dishes such as bratwurst, schnitzel, käsespätzle and Black Forest cake, alongside fare from local favorites like Happy’s Taco Shop and Forty Acres Tavern. Craft brews will flow from the keg trailer, and tokens can be purchased for both food and drinks.

Skitoberfest is known for its quirky competitions, including keg throwing, stein hoisting, axe throwing and spouse carrying. Kids can enjoy inflatables, pony rides, face painting and more in the Kids’ Zone, while winter sports fans can get a head start on the season at the Winter Expo, featuring gear from brands like Rossignol, Atomic and K2.

The weekend’s music lineup also includes M119 Band, Yankee Station, Sydni K, Charlie Reager, The Pink Violin Band, and Robert Yates, with performances at SkyBridge Michigan and The Back Forty. Festivities close with the traditional Pray for Snow Bonfire, a ritual that brings the mountain community together to welcome the first flakes of winter.

Admission is free, with tokens available for food, beverages and activities. Details online.

Boyne Mountain's SkyBridge draws crowds to see fall colors from above.

Hidden Blossoms to host open house Oct. 8

A new floral business is taking root in downtown Boyne City. Hidden Blossoms, located inside Self Indulgence Salon at 212 S. Park St., will celebrate its Bouquet Bar with an open house from 4- 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 8. 

Guests can browse pre-wrapped bouquets ready to take home or create their own from fresh stems, with each arrangement wrapped and available for purchase. The business is stepping into the daily floral market as the longtime floral business Upsy Daisy shifts focus to weddings and events. 

The open house will also feature snacks and wine sips from Kozmo Bar Catering. Owner Christa Hudson said Hidden Blossoms aims to bring a fresh, creative option to the community. The event is free and open to the public, with those interested encouraged to RSVP if making a bouquet.

Veterans Memorial clean-up

Veterans Memorial Committee members held their fall clean-up on Sunday, trimming back all the flowers and bushes plus general clean-up to prepare for winter and a construction project to rebuild the star that is embedded in the concrete. Committee members participating in the clean-up, from left, are Brian Kennedy, Deb Martin, Mary Legg, Ron Crozier, Carole Stockbridge, and Mark Smith. While the construction is in progress starting this week, there will be some temporary restrictions to access the memorial.

Member Appreciation Night at Arts Center 

Boyne Arts Center President Nancy Blandford shared the organization’s 2025 accomplishments at the annual Member Appreciation Night Monday, Sept. 29. "When we expanded our hours this summer, we enjoyed more visitors and more sales of art, including sales in our popular gift shop. We had such fun at our 1970s-themed Peace, Love & Philanthropy fundraiser. In collaboration with the Boyne District Library we held a summer-long, successful Kid's Art Camp. The "Unfolding" spring exhibit showcased diverse and creative art, and our expanding array of classes have been well attended. We continue to bring art to all ages and abilities in our community," she said. The Boyne Arts Center's 2025 Year in Review is available here.

Mobile Secretary of State to visit Library Monday

The Michigan Secretary of State’s mobile office will be at the Boyne District Library on Monday, Oct. 6, bringing state services directly to local residents.

The office will operate from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the library’s upstairs conference room. Walk-ins are welcome, and appointments can also be scheduled by calling (231) 582-7861.

Services available include first-time Michigan IDs, driver’s license and ID renewals, title transfers and disability placard applications or renewals.

The Secretary of State’s Mobile Office program is designed to reach residents who may have limited access to branch offices or reliable internet service. The streamlined office can be set up in libraries, senior centers, shelters, and other community spaces to make state services more accessible.

> Here is the library’s October newsletter with information about a blood drive, book discussions, craft projects, children’s programs and a Family Fun Night of line dancing on Oct. 17.

‘Let’s Talk Turkey’ drive aims to feed Boyne area families this Thanksgiving

With Thanksgiving approaching, Good Neighbors Food Pantry is kicking off its annual “Let’s Talk Turkey” campaign to help put holiday meals on the tables of families in need. For every $20 donation, the pantry will provide a household with a complete Thanksgiving dinner, including a turkey and all the fixings.

Donations can be made in several ways:

• Drop off cash or checks at Pat O’Brien and Associates Real Estate in Boyne City throughout November.
• Mail a tax-deductible check to Good Neighbors Food Pantry, P.O. Box 35, Boyne City, MI 49712.
• Donate online at www.goodneighborsboyne.org.

This year’s campaign coincides with the pantry’s 10th anniversary. Over the past decade, Good Neighbors has provided fresh, wholesome food to local residents facing food insecurity.

Boyne Area News Briefs

HALLOWEEN FUN - Two seasonal favorites return this month for families and Halloween enthusiasts. BC Lanes will host its popular Halloween Bash and Trunk-or-Treat from 4-7 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 26, at 1199 M-75 South in Boyne City, featuring candy, prizes, a themed laser tag walk-through and bowling specials. Later that evening, adults can enjoy live music from Peril from 8–11 p.m. Meanwhile, Matelski’s Cherry Hill Corn Maze, Pumpkin and Gourd Patch in Boyne Falls will be open Oct. 4 and 5 and Oct. 11 and 12 from noon–4 p.m., offering games, bonfires and free pumpkins for kids.

NCMC SENIOR PREVIEW - North Central Michigan College will welcome students, alumni and the community to campus on Saturday, Oct. 18, for a full day of activities. Senior Preview Day runs from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., offering high school seniors campus tours, program overviews, admissions and scholarship information, plus a free lunch and volleyball game entry. From 1–3 p.m., families can enjoy Harvest Howl with bounce houses, face painting, mask-making, games and food vendors. The NCMC Foundation will also host an alumni booth with free volleyball entry and popcorn vouchers. Register online. 

SAFE SOCIAL MEDIA - For those interested in social media and how to keep kids safe online, Government and Community Outreach Director for the MI Child Protection Registry Alish Meneely will present "Social Media: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly" on Monday, Oct. 6, from 4 to 5 p.m. in the Performing Arts Center at Boyne City High School. Meneely will discuss the popular apps kids use and steps that can be taken at home to keep kids safe online. She will discuss traffickers' and other predators' tactics and which apps they use to contact children. Other topics will include Michigan laws about sexting and sextortion, and the Michigan Child Protection Registry.

MEAL DEALS - Cafe Sante will again be offering their $10 pasta special every Thursday, starting Oct. 2, and $5 pizza special every Monday starting Oct. 6.

WALLOON CHILI COOK-OFF - The 5th annual Chili Cook-Off is heating up Village Green Park from 12-4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 5. For $10, sample delicious chilis from some of the area’s best restaurants, vote for your favorite, and savor a full bowl of your top choice. While you’re there, browse a charming art show featuring seasonal treasures and fall-inspired creations. This event will offer more than just chili. Enjoy an art fair from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., take part in our canned food drive, and let the kids have fun with special activities. All proceeds benefit the Manna Food Project. Details.

GIRL SCOUTING - If you are a girl in grades 6-10 in Boyne City, Boyne Falls or the surrounding area; and you would like to discover all that Girl Scouting has to offer, visit www.gsmists.org for more information. Adventure awaits. 

LAKE COLOR CRUISES - The Little Traverse Bay Ferry’s Harbor Princess will be offering color tours around Round Lake and Lake Charlevoix from now through Oct. 12, weather permitting, from 2-3:45 p.m. Tickets are on sale now for $37, and children 3 and under are free. Cruises start at Bridge Park Drive in Charlevoix. 

FRESHWATER CONCERT SERIES will start Saturday, Oct. 25, with the return of Steve Poltz. Tickets are $45. Call Freshwater Art Gallery and Concert Venue at 231-582-2588 to reserve tickets for $45.

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. Starting Oct. 1, the 59 and under meals will be $10, and the 12 and under meals will be $8. All 60 and older meals will be staying the same at a $3 suggested donation for each meal. Here is the October lunch menu, and the October activity calendar.



City of Boyne City Municipal News

Rieth Reilly has released an updated paving schedule:

Milling: Thursday, October 2

- Pleasant Rd. (between Cedar → Division)

- Main St. (between Lake → Park)

Repaving (1st & 2nd course of HMA): By Thursday, October 9, 2025

In addition, the following streets are scheduled for resurfacing soon. Expect road closures and limited access to parking off Front Street during this work:

- Front St. (between Main → Water)

- Water St. (between Lake → Park)

Please plan ahead for detours and parking restrictions while this work is underway. Thank you for your patience as these important improvements are completed.

> See map above.

ELECTION TESTING - The logic & accuracy test of Boyne City’s election equipment will be held on Thursday, October 16, at 10 a.m. at Boyne City Hall. This demonstration allows the public to see how the tabulator machines operate and to observe the processing of test ballots to confirm equipment is functioning properly and recording votes accurately. The public is welcome, and encouraged, to attend. 

ABSENTEE BALLOTS - The City of Boyne City has received the ballots for the November 4, 2025 City Commission Election and has mailed them to voters on the Permanent Absentee Ballot List. Absentee ballots can also be issued to voters wishing to vote absentee through Monday, November 3, at 4 p.m. All absentee ballots must be returned by 8:00 PM on Election Day to be counted. Find important dates and a sample ballot online.

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 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.

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

> City Commission's next regular meeting is at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 14. Agenda page.

Obituaries

A CELEBRATION OF LIFE for Richard "Dick" Lee Fish will take place on Sunday, Oct. 5, from 3 - 7 p.m. at the Veterans Park Pavilion in Boyne City. All who knew Dick are welcome to come share stories, memories, and laughter in honor of a life well lived.

James Garforth Butler

June 22, 1959 ~ September 11, 2025 (age 66)

Michael Prezzato

1964 - September 19, 2025 (age 61)

Bruce J. Boss

March 17, 1935 — September 29, 2025 (age 90)

Marvin Weber

December 14, 1930 — September 28, 2025 (age 95)

Located 30 degrees above the northern horizon at about 11 p.m., the Perseus Double Cluster can be seen with the naked eye. This image was taken at the Wildwood Observatory, one mile north of Boyne City, on the evening of Sept. 1.

OUR NIGHT SKY

The visual splendor of the Perseus Double Cluster 

By Rod Cortright, cortrigh@msu.edu

The Perseus Double Cluster, officially cataloged as NGC 869 and NGD 884, is a striking pair of open star clusters located in the constellation Perseus. About 7,500 light-years from Earth, these two clusters are situated relatively close to each other in space and are believed to have formed around the same time. Both clusters are visible to the naked eye from dark-sky locations as a hazy patch of light, making them a favorite target for amateur astronomers. Through binoculars or a telescope, the Perseus Double Cluster reveals a breathtaking field of hundreds of young, hot, blue-white stars spread across the sky.

Each of the two clusters contains several hundred stars, many of which are supergiants, with some shining tens of thousands of times brighter than our Sun. Their youthful age, estimated at just over 12 million years, makes them relatively new on the cosmic timescale. The presence of many large blue stars, which burn intensely and quickly become supernovae, demonstrate this region’s youth.

The Perseus Double Cluster lies in the Perseus arm of the Milky Way Galaxy, one of the galaxy’s major spiral arms. Their position within the dense plane of the Milky Way means they are seen against a rich backdrop of more distant stars, adding to their visual splendor. Because the clusters are gravitationally bound and located so close together, astronomers study them not only to better understand star formation, but also to explore the dynamics of clusters evolving in close proximity. The similarity of their distance and age suggests a common origin, likely from the same vast molecular cloud.

For us in the Northern Hemisphere, the Perseus Double Cluster is best observed during autumn and winter evenings. Binoculars often provide the most pleasing view, as they capture the wide field of both clusters together while still revealing their individual stars. The Perseus Double Cluster has been admired since antiquity, with records of its observation dating back to ancient Greek and Chinese astronomers.

> “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.

A cabinet card photograph of Harriet (Russell) Miller. Courtesy of the Patrick McCleary Collection.

THROUGH THE HISTORIAN'S LENS

Harriet's pioneer experience with a herd of cows  

By Patrick McCleary, Throughthehistorianslens@gmail.com

The Charlevoix County History Preservation Society

In 1847, all of Northern Michigan was an unbroken wilderness except for the Catholic missions in the Straits area and the trading post at Mackinac. Six years prior to this in 1841, the Presbyterians had opened a school at Old Mission on Grand Traverse Bay. It was this development that brought a 31-year-old Protestant missionary and teacher named Andrew Porter to this vicinity. 

In May 1852, he had established himself in Bear Creek Township in Emmet County and in 1857 took over the duties of postmaster of that township. Mr. Porter had quickly become an outspoken advocate of the native population and was known for speaking on their behalf in court and during other legal proceedings. 

John Miller and his wife, Harriet (Russell) Miller arrived at the head of Pine Lake (today known as Boyne City and Lake Charlevoix) on November 14, 1856. It was a harsh time of year to arrive in a wilderness setting that was growing colder by the day. It is said that they didn’t encounter a single person for the first six weeks after their arrival. 

An encounter with two Native American men introduced them to the name Andrew Porter and the Indian Mission at Bear Creek. The following morning, John Miller set out on snowshoes to meet this “friend of the Indians.” Soon after, he went to work for Mr. Porter for 75 cents per day. Later, his son Hugh would also work for Mr. Porter and remained in his employ for six years. 

During the winter months, the men trapped mink and marten, which were abundant on the Boyne River, selling the pelts in Charlevoix for a good price. At times, bad weather would delay them, or the business of acquiring provisions would take longer than planned. This left Mrs. Miller alone, in this instance for a period of two weeks. 

In an 1884 publication titled, The Traverse Region, Harriet Miller, wife of John Miller, recounts an experience that happened to her in June of 1858. Her son Hugh was residing at Bear Creek working for Andrew Porter. Mr. Miller and their younger son James had gone by boat to obtain supplies. That afternoon the weather changed, forcing husband and son to remain away. Pioneer accounts such as this one exemplify the hardships and desolation of the Boyne area prior to the Civil War years. 

That morning, Mrs. Miller had gone after her cows. Generally, if the cows were startled, they would return to the safety of home. However, on this occasion they took an alternate route and Mrs. Miller soon became aware that both she and cows were lost. She remained with them, drinking milk for nourishment. When the cows laid down at night, she laid down with her back against one of them. In this way, she remained warm and assumed that she would be awakened if the cows should again start wandering. 

“She had learned from observation that at the time of the longest days in June, when shadows are the shortest, she could step exactly the length of her own shadow at 12 o’clock. On the second day, while measuring her shadow in this manner to see if it was noon, she discovered a glittering object among the dead leaves on the ground. It proved to be a shirt button. A further search revealed the remains of an old flannel shirt. Then she remembered that two land-lookers, who had been entertained at her house some time before, had mentioned throwing away their flannel shirts in the woods several miles up the Boyne. Concluding that she must be several miles east of home, she took the sun for a guide and drove her cows in a westerly direction until sunset.”

When the cows laid down to rest, she laid down next to them for a few hours. When the moon rose fully in the sky, providing some light to see with, she traveled a while by moonlight until she and the cows tired again, lying down and resting. 

When she woke at dawn, she could hear a distant horn blowing and several guns firing. She immediately understood that the sounds were signals from a search party. One of the cows wore a bell around its neck, which she began to ring with all of her might. However, the bell was not large enough to emit enough sound to be heard. Soon after this, however, she came across several trees that had survey marks left by the Grand Rapids & Indiana Railroad. These marks helped her to once again estimate her distance from home, and she continued on her journey with her cows in tow. She was encouraged by the continued repetitions of the search party in the distance. 

Soon, she began a vigorous ringing of the cow bell once more and was able to attract the attention of those looking for her. They proved to be a party of Native Americans from the Bear Creek Mission. Upon realizing that his wife was missing, Mr. Miller had gone to Andrew Porter for help. The search party had crossed the lake in their canoes, firing guns and blowing horns as they landed on the south shore. Not hearing any response, they proceeded to the house where Mr. Miller had provided a breakfast. Then two members of the group had started up the Boyne River in a canoe while the others proceeded in an eastward direction by land. 

The account concludes stating, “Mrs. Miller would no doubt have finally reached home without assistance, but the dusty faces of her friendly rescuers were nonetheless welcome after a lonely sojourn of two days in the forest.

> 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.

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

> We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization. Donate here.

2025 Donors

This week's new donors are listed in bold.

Avalanche Donors

$500-$999

Stowe Family Fund

Frank and Chris Carleton

Lynne Ross

Bud and Nancy Shear

Ashley Cousens

Richard Bergmann

Jim and Jamie Baumann

Howard and Marcia Newkirk

Paula Larson

Lake Charlevoix Donors

$100 to $499

Bekah Rutz and David Osterhouse

Karen Colburn

Monica Peck

Karen S. Mertz

Betsy and Steve Schnell

Gary Coffer

Robin Stanley

Brett Binkley

Andy Schmittdiel

Gow Litzenburger

Ken Schrader

Terry and Marilyn Neilsen

Leslie Neilson

Lawrence Organek

Kyle Roberts

Gregg and Dee Smith

Ward Collins

Jo Ellen Rudolph

Gayle Harbaugh

Kristine Brehm

Christine A. Judd

Kevin and Marci Lavin

John Hoffman

Glen Catt

Beverly Neville

Jim and Kathe Carter

Penny Hardy

Jeanine Larsen

Cindy and Bill Binder

Richard Wright

Bill Aten

Jo and Ron Danczak

Marilyn A. and Jock Rader

Marcia and Howard Newkirk

Velma and Wes Dilworth

Gail and Ron Van Horn

The Frykberg Family

Tom Schraw and Pam Cislo

Richard M. Hodgson II

Miriam Hollar

Don Ryde

Catherine Bowers

Carl and Sally VanDomelen

Nord and Pat Schroeder

The Tosch Family

Jodie Adams and Bruce Janssen

Carol Ross

Roger and Pat Jacobson

The Tripp Family

John and Jan Bennish

Steve and Carole Drake

Caren Peltier

Al and Susan Newville

Linda Knibbs

Donald and Laurie Owen

Judith Gardner

Linda Burnham

Cynthia Boal-Janssens

Ann Knutsen

Dawn Ebersole

Yvonne Looze

Heaton Veterinary Hospital

John Princing

Jeff and Kari Streelman

Mike Sheean

Julie Hermann

Lynn Smith

Cynthia Tonkavich

Bruce Krauskopf

Bill and Barb Bryant

Dean and Fran Solomon

Scott and Jane MacKenzie

Meryl and Louis Hankey

Kevin and Diane Krenn

Randy Parker

Mark and Pam Mathisen

John and Jane Rozycki

Jane Burger

Craig and Terri Reynolds

Matthew Blandford

Jane Stieber Amato and Tony Amato

Leon W. and Wendy J. Stadt

Richard and Paula Paul

Jim and Nancy McKinstry

Corine and Craig Babb

Gary and Kim Roberts

Randy and Betty Hackney

Catherine Pumford

Patti Jasper

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

Lisa and Ian Whitelaw

JoEllen B. Rudolph

Susan Coyle

Elizabeth Jensen

Betsy and Steve Schnell

James Richman

John Stimpson

Larry Taylor

Carol Hanes-Nason

Skip Simms

Rob and Danielle Swartz

Carolee and Jeff Macfarlane

Richard and Maureen Shipley

(continued next column)

Lake Charlevoix Donors (continued)

$100 to $499

Peter Moss

Gregory Damman

Polly Stillson

Anonymous

Rolf Bates

Robert Sontag

Lauren MacIntyre

Cameron O'Keefe

Cheryl and Joe Wald

Ralph and Kathleen Galbraith

Tom and Debbie Neidhamer

Linda Burgert

Lynda Christensen

Ed and Cindy Grice

Mary Jane Cargill

Scott and Kelly Kennedy

Karen and Glenn Mertz

Christopher Jones

Brian and

Sunset Beach Donors

$60- $99

Linda Larsen

Jack Laurent

Annabelle Hay

Kecia Freed

Kirk Kujawski

Vera Post

Polly Stillson

William Conklin

Marilyn Cousineau

Rebecca Miller

JoEllen Rudolph

Lynn Hall

Hylon Heaton III

Cheryl J. Leach

Julie Haase

David J. Graham

Julie Tokar

James Graves

Ken Allen

Clarence Rivette

Pat and Emil Nelson

"Friends of the Boyne Citizen"

Wirt-Rivette Group & MOXIE Development

Terry and Betty Desmond

Kathy Breedlove

Louis Califf

Paige Crim

Linda Wallace

Eleanor West

Bill and Dee Kelly

Dana Lorian and Ryan Hoenicke

Sharon Kemp

John Betts

Capt. Bob Goodenough

John Nantau

Aaron Nemec

Rob Stout

Monica Ross

Gary and Nicolette Blakeslee

Ashley Nosek

Paul and Colleen Kuehl

Mary Kaselitz

Kevin Wolfe

Matt and Maribeth Janer

Monica Peck

Pat and Nicole Little

JoEllen Gilbert
Gow Litzenburger

Alison and Jeff Williams

Perry Irish Hodgson

Julie Tokar

David Graham

Peggy and Jim Anthony

Eric Gold

Peninsula Beach Donors 

$5 to $59

Deborah Schira

Sheri Rhoads

Joel Epstein

Brian and Emily Tappan

Elizabeth Brett

Cheryl Alger

Carole Shane and Michael Shell

Lucy Hartlove

Mitchell and Carly Klooster

Michelle Archer

Josephine Roberts

Kathy Fruge

Rodger and Janet Smith

Mark Christensen

Janice Salisbury

Jim Nielsen

Lynne Johnson

Richard and Gayle Bouters

John Miett

Alex Dailey

Ron Pool

Babette Stenuis Stolz

William H. Gilbert

Mary Jean Larsen

Jeanine A. Larsen

Nancy Newman

Clark and Jill Vellis

Candy and Bob Greene

Marc Ressler

Ken and Nancy Visser

Philip Conklin

Bob and Bedonna Perish

Steve and Erin Zucker

Don Kaegi

Karen Jarema

Zachary Shalz

Jenell Kelsey Pawlus - A Storage Closet

David Mengebier

Stephanie Bovee

Mary Clare Glabowicz

Lesley Pritchard

Cindy Simpson

Diana Winchell

Shelli Duff

JoAnn M. Smith

John George Martin

Nancy Dwan

Cheryl Tournaud

John McCahan

Mary Grayson

Jeanne and Denny Phelps

Joan and Vasco Zucchiatti

Kenneth Graham and Eileen Couchman

Frances Wolf

Lisa Zipp

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: 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 starts on 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:

• Private Art Party
• Goblins, Ghouls and Gourds - Oct. 11
• Alcohol Ink Demo Night - Oct. 16 
• Design a Watercolor Journal - Oct. 17
• Winter Blues in Pastel - Nov. 6
• Holiday Greeting Cards - Nov. 8
• See all upcoming classes here.

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.

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

Thursday Oct. 2 - Adam and the Cabana Boys

Friday, Oct. 3 - The Sleeping Gypsies with Patrick Ryan unplugged

Monday, Oct. 6 - Trivia

Thursday Oct. 9 - Adam and the Cabana Boys

Friday, Oct. 10 - Patrick Ryan and Josh Raber

October Saturdays - College football game day specials 

October 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.

> Oct. 10-19 - Skitoberfest and SkyBridge music - details.

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

> LIVE MUSIC

Friday, Oct. 3 - Chris Calleja (4-7:30)

Saturday, Oct. 4 - Chris Calleja (2-6)

Sunday, Oct. 5 - Chris Calleja (1:30-5)

Friday, Oct. 10 - Yankee Station - Six-Year Anniversary Party (4-7:30)

Saturday, Oct. 11 - Chris Calleja (2-6)

Sunday, Oct. 12 - Two Track Mind (1:30-5)

Friday, Oct. 17 - Chris Calleja (4-7:30)

Saturday, Oct. 18 - Chris Calleja (2-6)

Friday, Oct. 24 - Chase & Allie (4-7:30)

Saturday, Oct. 25 - Michelle Chenard (2-6)

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

> LIVE MUSIC, 7-10 p.m.

Friday, Oct. 3 - Nelson Olstrom

Saturday, Oct. 4 - Nelson Olstrom

Friday, Oct. 10 - Pete Kehoe

Saturday, Oct. 11 - Chris Calleja

Friday, Oct. 17 - The Lavender Lions Duo

Saturday, Oct. 18 - Chris Calleja

Friday, Oct. 24 - Michelle Chenard

Saturday, Oct. 25 - Halloween Tomfoolery Party featuring Sean Bielby. Ghoulish cocktails and a costume contest with gift cards for $75, $50 and $25. Register for the costume contest between 6 and 7:30 p.m. with judging at 8 p.m. Must be 18 to enter.

Friday, Oct. 31 - The Fridays

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

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

> DOWNTOWN SOUND - Crooked Tree Arts Center (CTAC) is proud to announce the Downtown Sound Performing Arts Series schedule for 2025-2026, running from September through March in the Petoskey area. This season features an eclectic mix of local, regional, and national talent, plus CTAC School of Ballet’s beloved fall and holiday performances. Downtown Sound tickets range from $10 to $60 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. 

> Steve Poltz will perform at 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, to open Freshwater’s fall/winter concert series. Call to reserve tickets, which are $45.

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

SUMMER/FALL CONCERT SERIES:

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.

> Sunflower Festival on Saturday, Oct. 4, plus other classes and events in their newsletter.

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

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

> LIVE MUSIC:

Friday, Oct. 3 - Eric Jacqua, 8 p.m.

Monday, Oct. 6 - Lit With Literature: Dungeon Crawler Carl by Matt Dinniman, 7 p.m.

Friday, Oct. 10 - The Tweed Tones, 8 p.m.

Monday, Oct. 13 - Bloomin' Sanity Woman's Happy Hour, 5 p.m.

Friday, Oct. 17 - DJ Jordan Williams, 8 p.m.

Monday, Oct. 20 - Lit With Literature: Quicksilver by Callie Hart, 7 p.m.

Friday, Oct. 24 - The Shifties, 8 p.m.

Friday, Oct. 31 - Halloween Karaoke Costume Contest, 9 p.m.

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.

Tuesday, Oct. 7 - Sean Bielby

Tuesday, Oct. 14 - The Tweed Tones

Tuesday, Oct. 21 - Keith Scott

Saturday, Oct. 25 - Halloween Party with David Cisco

Tuesday, Oct. 28 - David Lawston

STIGGS BREWERY & KITCHEN - 112 S. Park St., Boyne City, (231) 497-6100

> Nov. 5 and the first Wednesday of the month - Open Mic Nights hosted by Nelson Olstrom, 6-9 p.m.

> Oct. 11 and the second Saturday of the month - Karaoke with DJ T-Bone Thompson from 8-11 p.m.

The Boyne Citizen

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

Email: jim@boynecitizen.com

Phone: 231-675-8793

© Copyright 2025 Boyne Citizen, all rights reserved