February 27, 2025 | Issue #24 | Past issues

"Mamma Mia!" is a team effort

Boyne City High School Drama Director Mike Houser has always put together his cast by “going to the cast’s strengths.” This year, Boyne’s strong points are its female actresses, including, from left, Katie Hunt as Tanya, Melody March as Rosie, and Jamie Ploe as Donna. Talented female actresses were a must to pull off the difficult vocals that are a big part of Momma Mia!, opening March 7. Read the full story below, by Bob Wollenberg. 

Inside this issue

• City Commission OKs $709k to improve 5 streets
• Mamma Mia! is a team effort for BCHS Drama
• Heritage Center exhibit grand opening tonight
• Fox's Pizza hopes to be open in three weeks
• Lavender Hill Farm announces summer concerts
• Chamber plans Expo, State of Community, Biz After Hours
• News briefs, Municipal News, Obituaries
• Patrick McCleary history: The Boyne City Men's Club
• Thanks to the donors who keep the news coming!
• Music and entertainment listings

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City OKs $709k to improve 5 streets

By Jim Baumann, jim@boynecitizen.com

The Boyne City Commission Tuesday awarded a $709,245 contract to Rieth Riley to improve five streets this summer with the assistance of a $250,000 state grant. The affected streets are marked in color on the above map - Vogel, Water, Main, Front and Pleasant Streets.

The project came in 50% higher than the engineer’s estimates and attracted only one bidder. It was originally bid in May of 2024 and was rebid in December with the hope that more and lower bids might be submitted, but the rebid came in $4,816 higher than the original bid, again with only Rieth Riley bidding.

C2AE, the city’s engineering firm, said the bids came in high because the project involved five different streets, all fairly short with different types of improvements - factors that were essentially dictated by the city’s need to adapt it to grant guidelines. 

The project passed on a vote of 3-1 with Marty Moody voting no, citing the fact that the grant made the project more expensive than it should have been. Voting in favor of the project were Commissioners George Lasater, Sandy Pritchard, and Bob Farrell, with Mayor Tim Nemecek not able to attend the meeting after having shoulder surgery on Monday.

In the agenda memo, a C2AE representative said, “During the post bid Interview, we discussed options with the contractor to modify the scope of work and potentially reduce costs for the ADA sidewalk ramps included in the project. The approach will be to grind the concrete gutter pans to remove the ‘lip,’ which Is non-compliant in lieu of complete reconstruction. The contractor was open to this approach and said they would be willing to modify their bid price accordingly via a change order. The amount of potential savings is currently unknown and will have to be evaluated through the change order process.”

In other action Tuesday, the Commission:

> Tabled a proposal to create a local Brownfield Redevelopment Authority to facilitate more housing. In 2023 the State of Michigan changed the laws governing Brownfield TIFs to create new criteria to better allow them to be used for housing projects. The issue had been discussed at the Commission’s Jan. 28 meeting and passed by a 3-2 margin with Moody and Lasater opposed. The city has previously used the Charlevoix County Brownfield Authority on several occasions, and Moody said a city entity would take “more time, effort and money” and would create “another level of bureaucracy.” Pritchard and Farrell felt that the city having its own Brownfield Authority would have advantages, including being able to act more quickly and possibly generate additional funding sources. 

> Approved the purchase of a raw sampler device at a cost of $10,342 for the city sewage plant to replace a machine that failed.

> Approved the appointment of Brennen Wright, owner of For Fun’s Sake toy store, to a term on the Main Street Board formerly held by Adam Graef, expiring Jan. 31, 2026.

> In Mike Cain's City Manager's Report, he said, “We have heard back from EGLE, which has rejected our proposed CWSRF sanitary sewer connection ordinance. I have reached out to State Senator DaMoose's office to see if they can be of any further help in getting beyond this impasse. I anticipate this matter will be on our March 11th City Commission agenda.” Full manager’s report PDF.

> Tabled a proposal from the Parks and Recreation Commission to create two double-sided fish hanging signs (see photo graphic below) to be placed on either side of the river mouth, one at Sunset Park and the other at Veterans Park. The side facing the park would feature the city’s name along with an image of a trout caught on a fishing line, while the side facing the water would direct anglers to the fish cleaning station at the municipal boat launch across from Family Fare. The cost for both signs and installation, as quoted by the Wood Shop, would be $4,250. Million sees and Commissioners tabled the proposal and asked the Parks and Recreation Commission to consider the possibility of creating a simple outdoor fish cleaning surface that fishermen could use instead of cleaning their fish on picnic tables, which is an ongoing problem.

Mamma Mia! cast members belt out a tune during a recent rehearsal. From left in front are Katie Hunt as Tanya, Jamie Ploe as Donna, and Melody March as Rosie.

Long-time director Mike Houser says productions like "Mamma Mia!" are a team effort

By Bob Wollenberg, wollenb31@hotmail.com

Boyne City High School Drama Department productions have always been run as a “team effort.” In an interview with Drama Director Mike Houser (pictured), those were the first words that came to him. 

He is the kind of guy who won’t shed much light on himself, even when you ask him to. In this case, Director Houser has accomplished far more than he ever admits. The job of heading up a full-scale musical production like the upcoming "Mamma Mia" (opening March 7) takes an incredible amount of work, far more than what most people understand. It takes many collaborators coming together to arrive at “Opening Night,” to say the least. And it takes an outstanding leader to get there. 

Mike Houser is that leader. He runs the Drama Department exactly like his personality. Mike has always been easy to work with because you always know where you stand. What he says, he means – “Over and out.”

Mike and his talented wife Jenn have been running the BCHS Drama Department for 18 years. He said, “Listen, when I got the chance to inherit the drama directorship, it was already a full-blown, excellent program. Everything was in place – the music directors, stage crew, sound, lighting – it was all in place. The parent help, the Saturday all-day work bees, all of it was firmly established. There were important traditions. I just had to be smart enough to stick with them!” 

In college at Grand Valley State University, Mike and Jenn took part in theatrical shows while earning their college degrees: Mike in theatre and Jenn in psychology. During his early years, Mike spent time working in theatre in New York City, but learned most of his acting skills in various Michigan acting companies. He is currently employed as a manager at Chase Bank. Jenn gained her theatrical training while participating in collegiate productions and community theater. Jenn works as a Victim’s Advocate for Charlevoix County and heads up costuming with many other duties for all Boyne’s shows. 

The Boyne Drama Department has a plethora of experienced help in all facets of their shows. This year, Ron Freed, who has worked with Boyne Drama for years, recruited Chuck Barsy, Bob Houser, and Doug Drake, along with Todd March to create large sets, taking over for long-time Set Manager Bob Harmeling, who had worked with Drama Department for 38 years. Elise Mathers with helpers Lydia and Susanne March work on Boyne’s sets along with set painting by Kristine Kramer and Sandy Eaton. 

Long-time Drama Department member and well-known actress Taylor Swaim works on costuming, assisting Jenn Houser with “all things drama” that show up when doing a large Broadway musical with many students. Charles Garson handles dance, which is quite a job when it comes to a show the size of Momma Mia!. 

Boyne's parents have been one of the Drama Department's massive assets throughout the years. Once again this year, help shows up each and every day from props, to huge sets, to lunch on long work-bee Saturdays. If there’s a job that needs to be taken care of, Boyne’s parents come through.  

There are many moving parts to a musical production. Music, of course, is one of them. For 21 years, Erin Zucker and her husband Steve have headed up the music end of productions. Erin deals with all the vocal aspects – which for Momma Mia! is huge. 

The harmonies of Abba’s music would be enough to scare many off, but not Erin. She handles every one of the vocals, a huge job. Steve Zucker handles the technical end of the high school’s beautiful theatre, from sound balance to temperamental lavalier microphones, to a sound board that looks like it came out of Star Trek. When Steve started, the Drama Department had five lavalier microphones, now they have more than 30. 

In terms of casting a large production, Mike has always put together his cast by “going to the cast’s strengths.” This year, Boyne’s strong points are its female actresses. Mike described the female side of his cast as “triple threats,” which in theatre talk means, “They can do it all.” Boyne’s talented female actresses were a must to pull off such difficult vocals that are a big part of Momma Mia! Boyne’s men take on the difficult roles as “suitors.”

Boyne’s cast had eight weeks to put together this show, starting practices Jan. 1 and rehearsing six days a week since then. When asked what’s been difficult this year for the cast and crew, Mike answered immediately, “Snowwwww Days!” It’s hard on everyone when we lose rehearsal days.” 

When working on a production day after day, rehearsal after rehearsal, one usually ends up having a favorite song running through their head. I asked Mike if this was true. Mike said, “Oh yeah, that’s way true, considering it’s music from a group that deals with harmonies like Abba. Yesssssss, you end up with a song in your head all day long!” 

Mike’s favorite this year? “Voulez Vous! It’s a fun number with a heavy beat. Annnddd, come on, it’s Abba!”

> Bob Wollenberg, the writer of this story, was the BCHS Drama Department director for 40 years and retired in 2009. “‘Momma Mia!’ has great show numbers, lots of dance, and great character parts,” he said. “It’s a show you won’t want to miss - believe me!”

For 21 years, Erin Zucker and her husband Steve have headed up the music and technical part of productions.

"Mamma Mia!" reserved seat tickets are now on sale

Tickets are now on sale for the Boyne City High School Drama Department’s spring musical, “Mamma Mia!” Showtimes are 7 p.m. on two weekends, Friday and Saturday, March 7 and 8, and March 14 and 15 at the high school Performing Arts Center.

Reserved seating tickets are $10 or $15, available online at boynehs.tix.com. Online ticket sales close at 5 p.m. each performance night, and remaining tickets will be sold at the door beginning at 6 p.m.

The show will feature student actors Jamie Ploe as Donna, Chelsey Hertel as Sophie, Katie Hunt as Tanya, Melody March as Rosie, Gabe Houser as Sam, Adam Frye as Bill, and Cameron Little as Harry.

Heritage Center exhibit grand opening tonight

Want to learn more about the history of Boyne City? The Boyne Heritage Center invites you to attend the grand opening of their first permanent exhibit section, which features the LaFrance Fire Truck and the Old Town Clock from 5 to 7:30 p.m. tonight, Thursday, Feb. 27.

The LaFrance Fire Truck arrived in Boyne City in January, 1918. It was the city's first fire truck, making the leap from a horse-drawn fire vehicle to a motorized vehicle. The truck was equipped with suction pumps for pumping water out of the lake or river. The fire department has lovingly kept the truck in working condition and it can be seen every year in the Fourth of July parade.

On July 29, 1904, the Boyne City Village Council formed a committee to purchase a town clock. The issue had been a source of many arguments in town, as many of the town’s residents did not see the need for a central clock. The drive to purchase a clock was led by hotel owner William J. Lewis. These efforts resulted in the purchase of our clock on December 2, 1904.

Learn more about these two pieces of Boyne City history at the Heritage Center's Glass Room Exhibit Grand Opening.

Fox's Pizza hopes to be open in three weeks

The long-awaited Fox’s Pizza Den in downtown Boyne City should finally be opening in March. Jim Fox Jr., son of the founder, told the Boyne Citizen on Wednesday,  “We are waiting on one permit from the county for the hood system that was already existing, but now they’re not approving it. We had to redo it, so we are thinking we should be open within three weeks, I would hope.”

Fox’s announced last October that they would be occupying the space formerly known as Boppi’s, at 104 Water St. Fox’s is a Pennsylvania-based family corporation with 200 stores in 25 states, including sites in Petoskey and Mackinaw City. 

The footprint of the Boyne location is small, at around 900 square feet, which will limit service to carry-out and delivery. But the extensive Fox’s Pizza Den menu will remain unchanged, and patrons can choose from over a dozen gourmet pizzas. A big selection of apps, wings, salads, gourmet fries, stromboli, and sandwiches make up the rest of the menu. Many of their stores sell take-out beer, but that will not be an option, at least at first, in the Boyne City store. 

Lavender Hill Farm announces summer concerts

Performers have been announced for The Series at Lavender Hill Farm, a live music concert series held in a renovated multi-use Events Barn. Organizers say, ”The bands are carefully selected to uniquely represent a wide array of music styles and bring an unexpected variety to Northern Michigan. Guests arrive early and enjoy picnicking with friends on our lawn overlooking fields of lavender.”

Here is this year’s lineup:

June 21 - Barnaby Bright

June 28 - Stillhouse Junkies

July 5 - The Accidentals

July 6 - The Accidentals

July 18 - The Appleseed Collective

July 25 - Lavender Goes Pink with Morgan Myles

July 26 - The Dryes

August 9 - Joshua Davis

August 16 - Ashes & Arrows

August 30 - Horton Creek Bluegrass

Lavender Hill encourages ticketed guests to make an evening of their visit to our farm.

• Picnicking is welcome before shows beginning at 5:30 p.m.
• Local Ground outdoor performances are from 6-7 p.m.
• Theater doors open after 6 p.m.
• Main stage shows begin at 7:30 p.m.
• Lawn seats are for your listening pleasure and do not have a view of the main stage. BYO camp chair. 

Local Ground Performances by: Ryan Cassidy, Steel & Wood, Owen James, Ty Parkin, The North Carolines, Two Track Mind, Denning & Johnson, Lucky 17, Brian McCosky, i.am.james., Dane Tollas.

Summer Pass tickets for six selected concerts and tickets for Lavender Goes Pink are available now. Individual show tickets for all other shows will be available for purchase starting at 12 noon March 5.

Nashville star Morgan Myles will perform for Lavender Goes Pink on July 25, an evening filled with live music, themed beverages, specialty cookies, picnicking, and a silent auction to benefit the McLaren Northern Michigan Foundation for Breast Health.

Top ratings for BCHS Band

Congratulations to the Boyne City High School Band on another outstanding performance on Saturday at the District Band Festival. The band earned First Division ratings in every category throughout both concert and sight reading performances. For the seniors, that’s all four years of First Division ratings and the 8th year in a row for the high school band program.

Chamber plans Expo, State of Community, Biz After Hours

The Boyne Area Chamber has scheduled two of its major annual events for this spring, both at Boyne Mountain Resort. The Business Expo will be held Tuesday, April 15 (details and registration), and the State of the Community luncheon will be held Friday, May 2 (details coming soon).

The chamber has also announced its next Business After Hours networking event will be held from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Monday, March 17, St. Patrick’s Day, at O’Brien and Associates Real Estate, 128 Water Street. Raise a glass with friends and neighbors and help event host Pat O’Brien celebrate his birthday. “It's about time we get together in our finest green apparel and count our lucky stars,” O’Brien said.

Local non-profit hosts "Shred the Stigma" Mental Health Weekend at Boyne Mountain

Surf the Earth MHC, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, will host "Shred the Stigma" Mental Health Weekend at Boyne Mountain Resort from April 4-6. The event combines winter sports, wellness activities, and mental health awareness programming to foster community connection and break down barriers surrounding mental health conversations.

"Shred the Stigma brings together both winter sports enthusiasts and non-skiers for a weekend of learning, connection, and advocacy," said Surf the Earth founder Tammy Patrick. She started the organization to honor the memory of her daughter Ali Patrick and raise awareness about mental health. "By combining outdoor recreation with mental wellness workshops, we create an engaging environment for important conversations about mental health."

• Friday, April 4 will feature a Movie Night featuring "Mountain in My Mind 3," the silent auction opens, free gear giveaways, and refreshments are provided.
• Saturday, April 5 includes mental wellness workshops throughout the day, resource tables with mental health information and support services, "Laps for Ali" group skiing event, bonfire après party with live music, final silent auction bidding, and free gear giveaways.
• Sunday, April 6 includes sunrise yoga, sound healing sessions, art activities and a banked slalom competition.

All workshops and activities are free with registration. Special lift ticket, Sky Bridge, and lodging discounts are available for participants. For registration and complete event details, including discounted tickets and accommodations, visit www.surftheearthmhc.com/shred-the-stigma-2025.

Park of the Pines youth camp registration opens

The Community of Christ Church has announced its slate of summer youth camps at three locations, including Park of the Pines at 4094 Springwater Beach Road. Camps and retreats sponsored by Community of Christ in the Michigan Mission Center are planned “to allow opportunities for people to experience a peace-building community, while enjoying nature, fun, fellowship and friends. Campers can experience personal growth through worship, learning, relationships, and adventure.”

Community of Christ Campgrounds in Michigan are licensed and inspected by the local health department, the fire marshal, and the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE). All youth camps are staffed by individuals who are Community of Christ Registered Children & Youth Workers and pass both a state criminal background check and child abuse registry clearance.

Park of the Pines camps will be held:

• June 22-28: Senior High Camp (Grades 10-Grads ’25)
• July 13-17: Junior Camp (Grades 3-6)
• July 20-26: Junior High Camp (Grades 7-9)
• July 27-30: Youth Art Camp (Grades 7-12)

Registration information may be accessed at www.michiganyouthcamps.org. The Community of Christ provides financial support for prospective campers on a first come/first served basis, until camping financial support resources are depleted.

June 1 is the initial deadline to register for summer youth camps. Questions and/or requests for additional information may be directed to Winnie Johnson, Camping Coordinator, at 231-340-1849 or winnie@cofchristmi.org.

> Full press release.

Citizen looks to expand team of freelance writers

The Boyne Citizen is looking to expand our team of paid freelance writers. Check the information below if you’re interested.

> Freelance writer responsibilities.

> Freelance writers application form

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Boyne Area News Briefs

LITTLE LEAGUE registration closes this week in Boyne City. If you register after Feb. 28, there is a $20 late fee. Visit www.boynecitylittleleague.org for details and registration. Call 231-675-5216 or email boynecitylittleleague@gmail.com if you have questions.

SPRING BREAK STAYCATION- Looking for an exciting way to spend Spring Break? Char-Em ISD 6th-8th graders are invited to go to Camp Daggett for a week of fun, hands-on activities, and unforgettable adventures, plus lunch. For $50 per day, they will get to experience a wide range of activities from team challenges to outdoor exploration. Camp runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 24-28 – join them for one day or all five. Drop-off starts at 8:30 a.m, pick-up until 3:30 p.m. Details and registration.

FAIR HEADLINER - The Emmet-Charlevoix County Fair has announced that country music legend John Michael Montgomery will be the headliner for this year’s fair on August 20. Montgomery comes to Petoskey for his The Road Home 2025 Farewell Tour after 30 years of performing. Waylon Hanel kicks off the night at 5:30 p.m., Phill Vassar takes the stage at 6:30, and John Michael Montgomery hits the stage at 8:15. Tickets are now on sale.  

MOONWALK FOR HOPE on the Move - Join Leadership Charlevoix County from 7-9 p.m. Friday, March 14, at the Cross Country Center at Boyne Mountain Resort. Their mission is “to spread hope, mental health awareness, and suicide prevention” in partnership with Kiersten's Ride. Walk or snowshoe under the full moon, warmed by hot chocolate and bonfires. Snowshoes and glow sticks will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis. This is a family-friendly event and entry is by donation only. Organizers say, “We can't wait to see you there under the full moon!” Details on Facebook.

PAINT THE TOWN RED - Tickets are now on sale for the Boyne City Booster Foundation’s major annual event, Paint the Town Red, held at Boyne Mountain Resort on Saturday, April 26. Through their last 11 events, the foundation has raised over a quarter of a million dollars. Local support drives the success of many school programs and activities, including arts, athletics, and academics. Every year the funding requests have been greater than the year before. Tickets are $85 per person, available at the Mark Patrick State Farm office, 219 S Lake St., Phone (231) 582-6829. Those who buy a group of 10 tickets may have a reserved table. Here is the event schedule:

• 6-8 p.m. - Silent and live auctions, cash bar, appetizer stations. 
• 6:30-8 p.m. - Full dinner buffet.
• 8 p.m. - Midnight - Music performed by Jedi Mind Trip, one of Michigan’s best and longest lasting 70s, 80s & today’s rock dance bands.

WOODS & WILDLIFE HIKE - Join the Walloon Lake Association and Conservancy and local conservation organizations for a free, guided hike through a winter wonderland from 1-3 p.m. Saturday, March 1, at the Postle Farm Preserve. Discover how local plants and wildlife adapt to the cold, and learn how you can help protect our forests by reporting invasive species like Hemlock Woolly Adelgid. Sign up here.

SUNDAY BREAKFAST - The Boyne Falls Public School Class of 2025 is hosting all-you-can-eat Sunday Breakfast events from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. March 2 and 9. The menu includes a pancake bar, scrambled eggs, sausage, fresh fruit, sweet treats, juice and coffee. Admission is $12 for adults, $8 for children, and free for those under age 5. Proceeds go towards the senior class trip to Hawaii. 

EARLY LEARNERS - Boyne City Public Schools Early Learners Program registration for both summer and fall has started. For both programs, registered 4-year-olds can attend tuition-free Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. The program is tuition-based before and after school, and on Fridays. The summer program will run from Monday, June 16, through Friday, Aug. 15. For 3-year-olds the program is tuition-based from Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. A full day costs $40 and a half day until noon costs $30. After school care is available until 5:30 for additional charges. Registration form is here. For further information, call or email Jessica Sutherland at the Early Learners Program office, (231) 439-8171, jsutherland@boyne.k12.mi.us.   

City of Boyne City Municipal News

3 City Commission seats up for election in November

If you’ve ever thought you’d like to run for the Boyne City Commission, now’s your chance to throw your hat in the ring for a four-year term. City Clerk-Treasurer Jessica Puroll has issued a notice with all the details about how to become a candidate for the non-partisan election. The main thing a prospective candidate has to do is file an Affidavit of Identity and get at least 20 signatures of city residents who are registered voters on a nominating petition and turn it in to City Hall by 4 p.m. Tuesday, April 22. 

There are three commission seats up for election this year, and incumbent commissioner and Mayor Pro Tem George Lasater has told the Boyne Citizen that he will not be seeking reelection. Mayor Tim Nemecek and Commissioner Marty Moody have not said whether they will run for reelection. Learn more about the candidate nomination process here. If you have further questions, you may contact Puroll at 231-582-0334 or jpuroll@boynecity.gov.

City seeks volunteer for housing advisory group

The City of Boyne City is working to expand housing opportunities, and the City Commission has identified the North Boyne area as a priority location for development. The City is seeking one community member from that area to join a Housing Advisory Committee alongside other local and City leadership. This group will help guide discussions as the City moves toward the next phase of development.

Want to get involved or learn more? Please fill out a volunteer application. Submit the completed form to City Clerk/Treasurer Jessica Puroll at jpuroll@boynecity.gov, or drop it off to City Hall by March 12, at 4:30pm.

BOARD OF REVIEW will hold their organizational meeting at 4:30 p.m., March 4, at Boyne City Hall to review the 2025 tax assessment roll as prepared by the assessor. The BOR meetings for assessment appeals of the 2025 tax assessment roll will be held at City Hall:

• Monday, March 10, from 1-4pm & 6-9pm.
• Wednesday, March 12, from 9am-12pm & 1-4pm.

Property owners and resident taxpayers may protest their assessments in person or by letter. Letters must be received by March 10, sent to: ATTN: Board of Review, 319 N Lake St. Boyne City, MI 49712. Read the full notice here.

FREE FLU SHOTS - Boyne City’s EMS Department is offering free flu shots to those in our regional service area. No insurance or other payment needed. Limited supply. First come, first served. Can’t get to us, we may be able to get to you! Contact EMS Director Brenda Willson via phone or text at 231.350.2589 for an appointment or more information. 

D.A.R.E. GRADUATION - Monday was D.A.R.E. graduation day at Boyne City Middle School. Congratulations to all of the fifth-grade D.A.R.E. graduates, and big thanks to Officer Dan Mercer from the Boyne City Police Department for teaching students the D.A.R.E decision-making model.

DRAFT MASTER PLAN - Available for a 63-day comment period through Friday, April 11. The opportunity to view the plan and comment on it are available on the home page of the City's website and through this link.

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

> City Commission's next regular meeting is at 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 11. Agenda page.

CITY BOARD OPENINGS - Are you interested in getting involved and having a voice on what is happening in the City? Volunteer to serve on a board! For more information and to download an application, visit the City’s website. 

• EDC 1 seat. Applications due 3/11.
• LDFA 2 seats. Applications due 3/11.
• Airport Board – 3 seats open
• Zoning Board of Appeals – 3 seats open

Obituaries

Glory Margaret (Flodquist) Barden

July 13, 1938 ~ February 20, 2025 (age 86)

Cynthia Ellen (Stapf) Crumbaugh

September 2, 1957 ~ February 21, 2025 (age 67)

A formal portrait of the Boyne City Men’s Club. Front row (left to right): Arthur White, Dr. Alfred DeLacy, and Herbert Tainter. Back row (left to right): Solomon Wigle, Harry Curkendall, and Robert White. Photo courtesy of Robert White and the White Family Collection.

THROUGH THE HISTORIAN'S LENS

Recollections of the Boyne City Men’s Club

By Patrick McCleary, Throughthehistorianslens@gmail.com

The Charlevoix County History Preservation Society

Over the past 30+ years I have had the great honor of working with many, many wonderful people who also made it their priority to gather, research and preserve local history. The images seen in this week’s column come from Robert White and are now a part of the much larger White Family Collection. I first learned of the existence of the Boyne City Men’s Club through Bob and then pulled together the research on who these men were. 

It was at the turn of the last century when seven young men from Boyne City solicited the guidance of Dr. Alfred DeLacy to mentor a group that they had conceived of forming. One of these young men was Wallace W. Bailey. W. W. Bailey spent his entire life in Boyne City and was very well known among the early populace. He became a pharmacist and operated a pharmacy first on South Park Street and later at a location on South Lake Street. He was a pillar of the First Presbyterian Church and a community leader in many regards and wrote a column under the pen name Uncle Josh, which focused on the happenings around Boyne City - both present and past. The following are his recollections of the Boyne City Men’s Club in his own words:

“…There was a club formed among some of the younger men of our Community and our Club rooms were in the upstairs of the building Alex Heller now owns next to my drug store. There were seven of us who were always together in whatever there was to do. We were not bad fellows as a whole, but there were no places of amusement in or near Boyne City and we had to provide our own. There were two churches in town, the Methodist and Presbyterian, and they held alternate services Sunday morning and evening, so one Sunday evening we would march down the aisles in one church and the next Sunday evening in the other one, and it always seemed as if the ushers thought we were on parade exhibition, for they would invariably lead us down to the front pew unless we would seat ourselves in the back of the church, much to the disgust of the usher, who would look around to see where the heck we had gone to. Of these seven, I am the last one alive. The first to go was Arthur White, then Lem Fairchild, Sol Wigle, Harry Curkendall, Herb Tainter, Rob White, in their turn…”

Boyne City Men’s Club members - Left to right: Harry Curkendall, Arthur White, Herbert Tainter, and Robert White. Photo courtesy of Robert White and the White Family Collection.

The Boyne City Men’s Club members participated in a wide variety of community events, most of which allowed them to express their interests in portions of their family heritage. Curkendall and Tainter had direct Civil War ties and became members of the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War upon the creation of that organization. The White brothers actively promoted their Irish roots as well as their Scottish ancestry.

Other members of this young men’s group crop up among the earliest records of Boyne City. Two such names to appear are that of D.C. Sutherland, who was a tailor on Water Street, and his apprentice, a young man who is referred to as “Sullivan.” Both men shared Scottish ancestry with the White brothers and each played the bagpipes. Reading newspaper items like the one below help to give us a picture of the more fun aspects of early life in the village and later city of Boyne.

Extracted from The Boyne Citizen, Thursday, September 12, 1895, Page 1 Column 2:

Solomon Wigle and his bride arrived in Boyne City Friday morning last and met at the train a large number of friends to welcome them, among them D.C. Sutherland, dressed in full Highland Scotch kilt suit and playing his famous bag-pipes, who also led the procession to the Lewis House, where introductions and congratulations were indulged. The Citizen joins the crowd in wishing long and useful lives to the young couple and may all their days be filled with peace and prosperity.

> Patrick McCleary is a Certified Genealogist affiliated with the Charlevoix County History Preservation Society (CCHPS), 12555 Taylor Road, Charlevoix, MI 49720. The CCHPS promotes the understanding and appreciation of the heritage of the people of Charlevoix County and its townships by seeking out, collecting, preserving, and interpreting artifacts of historical and cultural significance. For further information, contact Patrick by email: Throughthehistorianslens@gmail.com.

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MUSIC, ARTS, AND ENTERTAINMENT

Please email your special events and music information to jamie@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 p.m.

BARREL BACK. 4069 M-75, Walloon Lake, (231) 535-6000.

> Live music 6-9 p.m. Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays with music and trivia on Thursdays.

Mondays - Sean Bielby

Tuesdays - Lara Fullford

Wednesdays - Pete Kehoe

Thursdays - Trivia & music by Holly Keller

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 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturdays, 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Sundays.

> LIVE MUSIC

Saturday, March 1 - Country Thunder, 8-11 p.m.

Saturday, March 8 - Johnny & The Sundogs, 7-10 p.m.

Saturday, March 15 - Derailed, 8-11 p.m.

Saturday, March 22 - R.P.M., 8-11ish p.m.

Saturday, March 29 - Sandy & The Bandits, 8-11 p.m.

BOYNE CITY FARMERS MARKET. Indoors in the pavilion at Veterans Park, 207 N. Lake Street, Boyne City. (231) 582-9009.

> Open Saturdays 8 a.m.-12 p.m.

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

> MY CLUE TRIVIA - Mondays at 7 p.m.

> SINGO BINGO - Wednesdays at 7 p.m.

> LIVE MUSIC at 7 p.m.

Thursdays - Adam and the Cabana Boys

Fridays & Saturdays - Patrick Ryan

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

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

> Local Love Nights - Boyne Mountain is showing some local love to residents of Antrim, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Emmet, and Otsego counties with discounted fun every Thursday through March 13. Details.

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

> LIVE MUSIC - Saturdays 2-6 p.m. Free snowshoes for customers to use.

Saturday, March 1 - Chris Calleja

Saturday, March 8 - Two Track Mind

Saturday, March 15 - Chris Calleja

Saturday, March 22 - Michelle Chenard

Saturday, March 29 - Chris Calleja

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

> LIVE MUSIC

Mondays - The Shifties, 6-9 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 28, - Brian McCosky, 7-10 p.m.

Saturday, March 1 - Lavender Lions Duo, 7-10 p.m.

Friday, March 7 - Chris Calleja, 7-10 p.m.

Saturday, March 8 - Michelle Chenard, 7-10 p.m.

Friday, March 14 - Pete Kehoe, 7-10 p.m.

Saturday, March 15 - Sean Bielby, 7-10 p.m.

Friday, March 21 - Pete Kehoe, 7-10 p.m.

Saturday, March 22 - Nelson Olstrom, 7-10 p.m.

Friday, March 28 - Brett Mitchell, 7-10 p.m.

Saturday, March 29 - Peter Jensen, 7-10 p.m.

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

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

Saturday, March 15 - Hatchwing Rider at 7:30 p.m. Details and tickets.

FRESHWATER Art Gallery and Concert Venue , 217 S Lake St., Boyne City, (231) 582-2588.

> LIVE MUSIC - 8 p.m. Call to reserve tickets.

Saturday, March 15 - Henhouse Prowlers. Founded two decades ago with the simple desire to play original and powerful bluegrass, this Chicago-bred quartet now finds themselves at the intersection of performance, diplomacy, and education. Onstage, the group's enthralling performances give audiences a sense of how much they love what they do. On record – including their latest offering, 2023’s Lead and Iron, released via Dark Shadow Recording – the band explores their collective life experiences through songwriting and intricate instrumentation. While bluegrass is the undeniable foundation of the Prowlers’ music, the band bends and squeezes the traditional form into a keenly developed sound all their own.

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

> Friday, March 14 - Step Afrika! The world’s leading authority on the artform of stepping, 7 p.m. Tickets.

> Thursday, March 27 - Trailblazing Women of Country, A Tribute to Patsy, Loretta, and Dolly, 7 p.m. Tickets.

> Sunday, April 13 - Keith Gave & Detroit's Hockey Evolution, an exclusive screening of "The Russian Five," followed by a conversation with Keith Gave, the journalist who helped bring the legendary Russian Five to Detroit. 1 p.m. Tickets.

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

> TRIVIA NIGHT - Wednesdays at 7 p.m.

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

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

> LIVE MUSIC 8 to 11 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 28 - Lou Thumser

Friday, March 7 - Sean Bielby

Saturday, March 15 - Eric Jaqua

Friday, March 21 - Pete Fetters

Friday, March 28 - Buddha Sweet

PENINSULA PARK EVENT CENTER, 5 W. Main Street, Boyne City, (231) 881-5192, peninsulaparkevents@gmail.com. The Event Center space is available to rent for public and private events including parties, fundraisers, entertainment, classes and meetings.

> FREE WINTER MOVIES - Saturday, March 1, showing “Jack” with Robin Williams at 4 p.m. Free admission; refreshments available for purchase. No outside food or beverages. 

PROVISIONS LOUNGE. 123 Water St., Boyne City, (231) 582-2151.

LIVE MUSIC, 6-8 p.m. Tuesdays and Saturdays

RED MESA GRILL.117 Water St, Boyne City, (231) 582-0049.

LIVE MUSIC 6-9 p.m. on Tuesdays.

Tuesday, March 4 - Dave Cisco

Tuesday, March 11 - Tai Jaxx Drury

Tuesday, March 18 - Sean Bielby

Tuesday, March 25 - Keith Scott

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

> March 1 and the first Wednesday of the month - Open Mic Nights hosted by Nelson Olstrom, 6-9 p.m.

> March 8 and the second Saturday of the month - Karaoke with DJ T-Bone Thompson from 8-11 p.m. It's a fun-filled night of singing, laughter, and craft beer. Whether you’re a pro or just want to have fun, the stage is yours.

WALLOON JUNCTION GRILL AND BAR. 4472 M-75, Walloon Lake, (231) 535-6006.

> Roller skating party 2-6 p.m. Saturday, March 8 and 15. $8 admission, $2 rentals.

> Jelly Roll performs in our log cabin event center at 8 p.m. Saturday, March 15.

The Boyne Citizen

Email: jim@boynecitizen.com

Phone: 231-459-4166

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