|
November 26, 2025 | Issue #61 | Past issues
Happy Thanksgiving from the Boyne Citizen staff and board!
| | |
Lexamar donates 1,800 pounds of food
Good Neighbors Food Pantry has sent “A huge thank you to Lexamar employees” for providing 1,800 lbs. of food they collected from their recent food drive. “Our shelves are full because of their generosity,” according to a Facebook post from Good Neighbors.
| | |
Inside this issue: Holiday events & more...
- Trail inches forward, but funding uncertainty looms
- Wednesday - Walloon Village Lighting & open house
- Thursday - Boyne Kiwanis Turkey Trot
- Thursday - Eagles Community Thanksgiving Dinner
- Friday - Holly Jolly Boyne parade & downtown open house
- Make your voice heard - take this news survey
- Audit praises Boyne City's healthy reserves
- City manager Demel updates commission via Zoom
- Freshwater announces next four concerts
- Red Mesa hosts 28th Annual Judy K Benefit Breakfast
- Chamber Business After Hours set for Dec. 11
- Holiday Open House at Boyne Mountain Dec. 12-14
- New changing station at Boyne Forest Trail
- Bay Township prepares for Wreaths Across America
- Regional News from Bridge Michigan
- Patrick McCleary history: Boyne City Sanitarium
- News briefs, Obituaries & Municipal News
- Thanks to the donors who keep the news coming!
- Music and entertainment listings
| |
> Like this newsletter? Forward to a friend and help us grow. If they like it, they can subscribe here.
P.S. We just hit 2,030 subscribers this week!
| | |
Charlevoix County Commissioner Bob Jess cuts the ribbon alongside trail organizers, donors and local partners during the ceremony in Horton Bay celebrating the newest completed segment of the Boyne City-Charlevoix trail.
Ribbon cut as BC-Charlevoix trail inches forward, but funding uncertainty looms
By Annie Doyle Grove, annie@boynecitizen.com
Supporters of the long-awaited Boyne City-Charlevoix bike trail gathered Monday, Nov. 21 in Horton Bay for a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the newest completed segment — and urging county leaders to help finish the final stretch.
The latest addition extends the paved, nonmotorized trail farther along Boyne City Road, filling in another link between Charlevoix and Boyne City. Roughly 6 miles remain before the two communities are fully connected.
The ceremony drew trail advocates, donors, business owners and local officials. Steve Van Dam, who has spent years pushing the project forward, opened the event before introducing partners and speakers.
“This is a big day to get this trail open and done,” Van Dam told the crowd. “We are so close right now. Only six miles.”
Funding partners recognized
Representatives listed a long roster of contributors who have helped carry the project through its third phase, including Bay Township, which committed $33,000, the Charlevoix County Community Foundation, Great Lakes Energy People Fund, the North Country Bicycle Club, the Top of Michigan Trails Council and Team Elmer’s.
Major state and federal grants have also supported the work, including a $292,600 Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund award, more than $1.1 million from MDOT’s Transportation Alternatives Program and $165,909 through the Federal Highway Administration.
Trail supporters credited the Charlevoix County Road Commission and project engineers for helping push the new segment to completion.
County support in question
But even as the crowd celebrated, concerns hung over the project’s future. The Charlevoix County Board of Commissioners recently vacillated on its support for completing the remaining section — a move that has frustrated trail advocates and shifted more of the work onto grassroots organizers.
In a brief but pointed speech, Charlevoix County Commissioner Bob Jess urged the public to stay engaged.
“I have three words: finish the trail,” Jess said, drawing applause. He was recognized by organizers as the person who first sounded the alarm that the project was stalling and encouraged volunteers to pick up the pace.
Supporters emphasized that completing the trail is about more than recreation — it’s about safety, regional connectivity and economic vitality. Speakers noted that bike and pedestrian traffic along the completed sections continues to increase each year.
Businesses and residents feel the impact
Paul Silva, owner of Blue Dot Farm and Winery, a business located along the earlier northern portion of the trail, said he sees the effects daily.
“After our first year, we had all these people showing up on bicycles,” he said. “Think about the commerce, think about the safety, think about the health. We need to get this trail done.”
Silva added that Boyne City EMS Director Brenda Willson has stressed the safety benefits of separating bicycles and pedestrians from Boyne City-Charlevoix Road traffic, saying the completed portions are already preventing accidents and saving lives.
Van Dam noted the trail is also an amenity that helps employers attract and retain workers.
“We want to have a desirable community,” he said. “Bike trails are part of that.”
State lawmaker signals willingness to help
State Representative Parker Fairbairn attended the ceremony and said his office is willing to help local groups pursue funding for the trail’s final phases.
The new state budget, he cautioned, contains fewer local project grants than usual, but he encouraged trail supporters to keep working with their legislators. “Northern Michigan will be better off with it,” he said.
Grassroots push moving forward
With county funding on pause, a newly formed citizens group is preparing to take the lead. Organizers have begun circulating “Finish the Trail” information cards outlining the project’s remaining needs, the benefits of completion and ways the community can help.
“This is going to take a few years,” Van Dam said. “It’s like running a marathon. We’re started, we’re going to keep a steady pace, and we are going to get it done.”
He urged residents to talk to their neighbors, reach out to county commissioners and spread the word to potential donors.
“What a difference it’ll make to get this trail done,” he said. “We just have to get it done now.”
The ceremony concluded with donors and partners gathering inside of the Horton Bay Community Church to snip the ribbon — a celebration of progress, and a reminder that community support will determine whether the next ribbon-cutting comes sooner rather than later.
| | Michigan State Rep. Parker Fairbairn, at left, accepts the microphone from Boyne City-Charlevoix trail organizer Steve Van Dam during the ribbon-cutting in Horton Bay. Fairbairn told attendees his office is willing to help local groups pursue funding for the trail’s final phases. | | |
Holly Jolly Boyne includes parade, tree lighting, Santa visits ... and a winter storm warning
All decked out with holiday lights and decorations, Main Street says “our downtown sparkles” for the Holly Jolly Boyne family fun event held Nov. 28, the Friday evening after Thanksgiving.
Businesses stay open and provide refreshments, and the annual Santa Parade begins at 6 p.m. Follow Santa after the parade as he makes his way to the tree lighting at Sunset Park, and then to the Boyne City Eagles for hot chocolate and cookies as Santa visits with the children.
Coldwell Banker Schmidt Realtors also sponsors a petting zoo plus hot dogs, chili and soup, and hot chocolate from 5-8 p.m. that evening at 231 E. Water St.
> BUNDLE UP! - Despite the fact that it was 50 degrees on Tuesday, the weather forecast looks ominous if you’re planning to drive somewhere, run in a Turkey Trot or attend local holiday events. But skiers may be happy! A Winter Storm Warning was issued at 3:24 p.m. Tuesday, predicting “heavy lake effect snow and strong winds” from 7 p.m. Wednesday to 7 p.m. Friday with snow accumulations between 6 and 10 inches with locally higher amounts possible.
| |
Boyne City Kiwanis Club hosts 15th Annual Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning | | |
The Boyne City Kiwanis Club is organizing the 15th Annual Turkey Trot, set to take place at 9 a.m. on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 27. This popular community tradition invites runners, walkers, families, and furry friends to “kick off the holiday with fun, fitness, and gratitude.”
The 5K run/walk and one mile fun run will start and finish at Veterans Memorial Park Pavilion in downtown Boyne City, offering scenic views of Lake Charlevoix and a festive, family-friendly atmosphere. Participants of all ages are welcome, and Thanksgiving-themed costumes are highly encouraged.
“We're thrilled to celebrate the 15th year of the Turkey Trot,” said Scott Southwell, event organizer. “It’s a fantastic way to bring the community together, promote healthy habits, and support local youth initiatives — all before the turkey hits the table.”
Participants can click here to register for $30 plus a service fee or pay $35 at the event.
The Turkey Trot is a key fundraiser for the Boyne City Kiwanis Club, with proceeds going toward scholarships, youth leadership programs, and community service projects.
| | |
Eagles host Community Thanksgiving Dinner
The Boyne City Eagles are again hosting a Community Thanksgiving Dinner from 12 -2 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 27.
Everyone is encouraged to bring a monetary or canned food donation to benefit Manna Food Project. They can always use more volunteers, so if you’re willing and able, stop by the club at 106 River Street and sign up.
All meals are free and available for take-out. The Eagles will also deliver to people who are not able to drive to the dinner, but anyone in this situation should call (231) 582-6904 to arrange for a meal delivery.
| |
Make your voice heard - take this survey
Press Forward Northern Michigan is a non-partisan group of community members who are working to make sure our region has access to fact-based local news and information. As part of that work we need to understand how residents stay informed in their own communities, and what's missing. This 10-minute survey will help us do that work. Use this link and make your voice heard!
| | |
The Petoskey Steel Drum Band will perform as part of the Walloon Lake Village Lighting festivities.
Walloon Lake Village Lighting includes music, shopping, reindeer and more
The annual Walloon Lake Village Lighting is almost here. Join us tonight, Wednesday, November 26, from 5 to 8 p.m. as they kick off the holiday season in Walloon Lake Village. Enjoy an evening filled with festive lights, family fun, music, holiday shopping, and more. From Santa and his reindeer to live entertainment and a holiday market, it is a night designed to celebrate the spirit of the season.
Begin your night at the Talcott Event Center, where you can visit Santa and pick up an event passport. Collect stamps from participating businesses throughout the Village for a chance to win prizes. Return your completed passport to the passport booth at the Talcott by 7 p.m. The Steel Drum Band will announce the winners at 7:30 p.m. Guests must be present to win.
Evening highlights include:
• Live Steel Drum Band
• Cash bar with snacks
• Holiday Market
• Live painting experience
• Real reindeer
• Toys for Tots collection
• Village business specials and giveaways
| | |
ABOVE- Auditor Joe Verlin of Gabridge & Company presents Boyne City’s 2025 financial audit to the City Commission during the Nov. 25 meeting at City Hall.
BELOW - Charts from the city’s 2025 financial audit show that property taxes made up the largest share of governmental revenues, while public works, health and welfare and recreation and culture accounted for most governmental expenses during the fiscal year.
| | |
Audit praises city's healthy reserves; Commissioners eye cost pressures
By Annie Doyle Grove, annie@boynecitizen.com
Boyne City is sitting on one of the healthiest fund balances in northern Michigan, and its latest audit shows a community in strong fiscal shape — with deep reserves, low debt and self-supporting utilities — even as commissioners warn that rising construction costs and major projects could test how far that cushion can stretch.
City commissioners formally received the annual audit at a 10:30 a.m. meeting Tuesday, Nov. 25 at City Hall. The report covers the fiscal year that ended April 30, 2025, and was prepared by Grand Rapids-based Gabridge & Company, PLC, with auditor Joe Verlin walking the board through key numbers and trends.
Verlin issued an “unmodified,” or clean, opinion on the city’s books — the highest level an auditor can give — and noted Boyne City once again received a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting from the Government Finance Officers Association. It is the ninth consecutive year the city has earned the award, a distinction held by fewer than one in five Michigan cities.
According to the report, the city’s overall net position — essentially what it owns minus what it owes — rose to $41.3 million, up $2.79 million from the previous year. Revenues totaled about $12.83 million, while expenses came in just over $10.04 million. The city’s unrestricted net position, money not tied up in buildings or legally restricted funds, grew to about $11.17 million.
On the day-to-day “checkbook” side of the ledger, governmental fund balances increased by $1.39 million to $8.66 million. Of that, roughly $6.14 million is unassigned general fund balance that can be spent at the commission’s discretion — an amount equal to about 144 percent of one year of general fund spending and transfers. Verlin said that puts Boyne City well above common benchmarks and gives the city flexibility to respond to grant opportunities, emergencies and future projects.
At the same time, some commissioners used the audit discussion to revisit earlier decisions to cut the city’s operating millage and what that could mean for future capital projects. Verlin pointed out that Boyne City reduced its millage on the 2024 tax roll and again on the 2025 roll, for a total drop of just over one mill in two years, even as taxable values grew by about 9.1 percent. That combination allowed the city to lower the rate while still collecting more in total property tax revenue.
Commissioner Sandy Pritchard noted that the back-to-back millage reductions, which she said equated to about $500,000 in foregone revenue over two years, could have the effect of making it harder to keep up with capital improvements at a time when project costs are climbing. She urged the board to think about long-term needs laid out in the city’s new capital improvement plan, including paving gravel streets, projects in the parks and recreation master plan, and whether current tax levels will be sufficient as prices continue to rise.
Much of the discussion focused on how to connect the audit to the newly developed capital plan. Verlin suggested one option used by other communities: creating a separate capital improvement fund and gradually moving a portion of the unassigned general fund balance into it each year. That approach, he said, can help earmark money for big projects while making it clear how much of the remaining fund balance is truly available for other needs.
Mayor Bob Farrell asked for more detailed depreciation schedules on city vehicles, equipment and other assets, saying commissioners need a clearer picture of when major replacements are coming due and how that should factor into future budgets. City Clerk Jessica Puroll and the auditor said those detailed schedules exist behind the summarized tables in the report and can be shared as a planning tool for next year’s budget planning.
Beyond the general fund, the audit shows Boyne City’s enterprise operations in solid shape. The water and sewer funds both generated enough in user charges to cover their operating costs and debt payments, with combined net position in those funds rising by about $737,000. One long-standing water and sewer bond is scheduled to be paid off in the current fiscal year, which will eliminate that piece of system debt going forward.
Verlin also highlighted progress on the city’s pension obligations. Boyne City participates in the Municipal Employees’ Retirement System, and its net pension liability has fallen from about $3.37 million a decade ago to roughly $1.3 million as of the end of 2024, with the plan now about 87 percent funded — well above the statewide average and far from levels that trigger state concern. Continued annual contributions are expected to fully fund the remaining liability over the next 15 years.
Looking ahead, the audit notes that Boyne City has already committed to a slate of major projects, including Clean Water State Revolving Fund sewer improvements, a local streets package and marina work. As of April 30, 2025, the city had roughly $13 million in contracts awarded for those projects, with about $1.9 million spent and $11.1 million in remaining commitments that will flow through future budgets.
That prompted questions from Commissioner Pritchard about system capacity and growth, especially as new housing, industrial expansion and neighboring communities look to Boyne City for water and sewer service. Pritchard cautioned that she does not want those systems to end up in a situation similar to the city’s ambulance service, where outlying townships rely on city infrastructure without fully covering the cost.
Commissioner Bridget Foltz asked how the city should prepare for a potential recession or downturn in taxable values and state revenue sharing. Verlin said the best protection is a strong, clearly defined fund balance policy that sets a minimum unassigned balance for the general fund and commits the city to maintaining it, so that Boyne City can “weather the storm” if property values fall or state aid is cut.
Farrell also raised the issue of tracking the impact of tax abatements and other incentives, such as payments in lieu of taxes and tax increment financing, on city revenues over time. Verlin agreed those abatements should be quantified and reported so commissioners and residents can see how much revenue is being foregone and what the community is receiving in return.
In a letter included with the audit, Clerk Puroll wrote that Boyne City was “very fiscally sound” as of April 30, 2025, and “poised for continued strength in the years ahead,” citing stable employment, steady private investment and ongoing residential and commercial development.
The audit and management’s analysis are available in full on the city’s website as part of the 2025 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report.
| | ABOVE - A table from Boyne City’s 2025 audit shows taxable property values climbing steadily over the past decade, led by strong growth in residential and commercial real estate. The city’s total assessed value reached $500.7 million in 2025, even as the direct tax rate dropped to its lowest point in ten years. | | |
City manager Demel updates commission via Zoom and written report
By Annie Doyle Grove, annie@boynecitizen.com
With winter on the way, Boyne City is finishing some sewer and street paving projects and expecting emergency service calls to climb, a trend newly hired city manager Sam Demel highlighted in one of his first written updates to commissioners during their Nov. 25 noon meeting.
Demel, just a week into the job after starting Nov. 17, appeared via Zoom as he continues relocating his family from Oklahoma to Boyne City. In a city manager’s report dated Nov. 21, he reported typical late-fall activity in the city’s public safety departments. The details were:
-
SEWER PROJECT UPDATE - “Hot Mix Asphalt (“HMA”) has now been completed as much as possible due to plant closure. Only a small section of Main between Harris and Boice will remain gravel through the winter. Shoulders of roads are not being temporarily improved for winter operations and mailboxes are being installed. East and Main restored and HMA applied to ensure snow removal can be achieved. One area of Main near Boice is still under construction to have the final section of force main properly fused and completed with back filling.”
- EMS handled 55 calls for service in the past two weeks. Demel described the current lull as “the calm before our storm,” alluding to the call volumes that are expected to increase as winter sets in.
- Fire Department crews responded to eight runs between Nov. 12 and Nov. 19, including assistance at a major structure fire at the Boyne Valley Lodge in Melrose Township. Boyne City sent 13 firefighters and its pumper, aerial, tanker and equipment truck to assist departments from Boyne Valley, East Jordan and Resort-Bear Creek. All occupants escaped safely, though the lodge sustained significant damage. The department was also approved for reimbursement for new fire gear, minus a $1,000 deductible.
- Police recorded 45 calls for service last week, a slightly lower-than-average number but typical for late fall. Demel indicated there were no calls of public interest and noted police expect activity to pick up in December.
Demel indicated he wants feedback from both commissioners and city department directors on the format and process they prefer for future manager’s reports and communication from staff.
> Read the full manager's report here.
| |
Blues artist Larry McCray will ring in the new year at Freshwater again.
Freshwater announces four concerts starting with Larry McCray on Dec. 28
Larry McCray is returning to Freshwater Art Gallery and Concert Venue at 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 28. It's his fourth straight year of gracing the Freshwater stage during Christmas week.
Freshwater owner Tony Williams commented, “What a way to ring in the new year! We're lucky to be able to bring one of the world's premier blues artists to our stage year after year. He'll be playing a lot of cuts off his new album, "Heartbreak City," which was produced by Joe Bonamassa. Check out McCray’s video, “Heartbreak City,” here.
Freshwater has also announced these concerts for the new year:
-
Saturday, Feb. 14 - Full Cord, award-winning Michigan bluegrass band.
-
Saturday, March 14 - Susan Werner, Chicago singer-songwriter.
-
Saturday, April 18 - Willie Nile, New York singer-songwriter.
- May concert to be announced
| |
|
Red Mesa hosts 28th Annual Judy K Benefit Breakfast to support Boyne food pantries
Magnum Hospitality will host its 28th annual Judy K Benefit Breakfast, set to take place at Red Mesa Grill from 8 to 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 6. This event honors the legacy of Judy Kuheana, the founder of the Boyne Food Pantry.
Since its inception, the benefit has raised more than $29,000 for the Manna Food Project, which supports Boyne area food pantries. Red Mesa General Manager Justin Gibbert said, “This year's breakfast promises to be a feast for a cause, bringing the community together to fight hunger and celebrate the spirit of giving.”
Cost for the breakfast is $15 per adult, $6 for children 12 and under. All proceeds from the breakfast will go directly to the Manna Food Project, supporting its mission to provide resources to the Boyne area food pantries.
| |
Chamber Business After Hours set for Dec. 11
The Boyne Area Chamber invites everyone to join them for their Holiday Business Hours from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 11. The event will be held at One Water Street, upstairs above Alpine Chocolat Haus, hosted by the Boyne Arts Center, Boyne City Massage & Wellness, James Richman of Edward Jones, Christopher Fair D.C., with food sponsored by Cafe Sante and Red Mesa Grill.
Enjoy a “cringey” photo booth sponsored by Stella Jo Imagery, an ugly sweater contest, Spin to Win spa treatments from Boyne Massage & Wellness, beer, wine, spiked hot cocoa, plus Red Mesa and Cafe Sante catering, and more. Admission is free.
| | |
Holiday Open House at Boyne Mountain Dec. 12-14
Boyne Mountain Resort invites everyone to join them for their Holiday Open House the weekend of December 12-14, “where snow-covered slopes sparkle under enchanting lights and winter wonder comes alive.”
Create memories with Santa, marvel at the dazzling Lights in the Sky on SkyBridge Michigan, and gather around crackling bonfires while enjoying festive crafts, cozy movies, holiday shopping, live entertainment, and delicious seasonal treats that make this winter celebration truly unforgettable. Full schedule and details here.
Jingle all the way down the slopes on December 14 at the second annual Santa Sunday. Slide down the mountain in style and spread cheer, because if you're dressed as Santa, Mrs. Claus, The Grinch, or Buddy the Elf, you'll unlock a “sleigh-tacular” $25 lift ticket. Plus, when you hit the slopes on Santa Sunday, you also receive an extra day of skiing for free, valid from December 15-25. And the best part? All proceeds benefit Brother Dan's Food Pantry, so you can do good while having a blast. More details here.
| | |
New changing station at Boyne Forest Trail
Representatives from the Top of Michigan Mountain Bike Association (TOMMBA), the City of Boyne City and Pearsall Construction held a ribbon-cutting ceremony Tuesday, Nov. 24, to mark the completion of a changing station at the Boyne Forest Trail System trailhead on Old Horton Bay Road. The changing station has two dressing rooms to allow bikers and hikers to change clothes before and after exercising. Before the structure was built, bikers would awkwardly change clothes in their vehicles. A bench and picnic table will be added under the roof in the spring, creating a gathering area.
> BELOW, Mountain biker Mark Seidel shows off the inside of one of the dressing rooms.
| | |
Bay Township group prepares for annual Wreaths Across America ceremony
Bay Township will again take part in the national Wreaths Across America program next month, joining thousands of communities across the country in placing holiday wreaths on veterans’ graves.
The volunteer-led effort, now in its 12th year locally, is organized by the Bay Township Area Cemeteries Committee. The group formed in 2014 through a partnership between the Bay Township Cemetery Committee and Horton Bay Community Methodist Church.
There are 54 known veterans buried in the township’s three cemeteries — Oaklawn Cemetery on Horton Bay Road North, Dyer Cemetery on Camp Daggett Road and North Bay Cemetery on Church Road, along with the Memorial Garden at Horton Bay Community Methodist Church.
BTAC’s goal is to place a wreath on the grave of each veteran at all four locations. Wreath sponsorships cost $17, which covers the cost of placing a wreath and helps fund education and outreach about veterans’ service. Eight ceremonial wreaths will also be placed at the cemeteries and scattering garden at no cost to the township.
The national Wreaths Across America Day is December 13, and Bay Township volunteers will hold their wreath-laying ceremony at Dyer Cemetery at 11:45 a.m. that day. The event is open to the public and does not require a wreath sponsorship to attend. Members of the Boyne City American Legion Ernest Peterson Post 228 will assist with the ceremony.
Following the ceremony at Dyer Cemetery, volunteers will place wreaths on all identified veterans’ graves in the township’s remaining cemeteries. One wreath will also be placed at the Memorial Garden at Horton Bay Community Methodist Church. Any wreaths sponsored beyond the number needed this year will be applied to 2026.
> Sponsorships must be submitted by Dec. 1. All wreaths are sent directly to Bay Township and are not given to individual sponsors. To sponsor a wreath by check, use this form. To sponsor online go to wreathsacrossamerica.org/MI0057. For questions, residents may contact location coordinator Georganna Monk at 231-883-9867.
| | |
Local news is made possible by you!
The Boyne Citizen is committed to being a free resource for in-depth local news and information you can trust. Will you join more than 400 donating members who believe the Boyne area needs high-quality news and information?
| | |
THE IRONTON FERRY will take its last rides of the season Wednesday, November 26, before closing at 10:30 p.m. The ferry will resume operations when Lake Charlevoix is free of ice, normally in mid-April. Check the ferry web page for updates and a live camera.
WARREN MILLER FILM - Lake Charlevoix Ski Team, a co-op varsity ski team between Boyne City, East Jordan and Charlevoix students, as well as Boyne City Middle School Ski Team, have teamed up to bring in the next exciting Warren Miller SNO-CIETY film. The film is a benefit for the local ski teams and will be shown at the Boyne Mountain Grand Lodge Vienna Rooms at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29. Tickets here.
HOLIDAY CRAFT SHOW will beheld from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, December 6 at Boyne City High School. Admission is free, and donations are welcome at the door. Refreshments are available and hourly drawings will be held for $20 Boyne Bucks giveaways. This 46th annual event raises funds for the Boyne City Booster Foundation, supporting the arts, athletics and academics. Details.
FAT & FLURRIOUS, the Lower Peninsula's most challenging fat bike race, has been scheduled for Saturday, January 17, 2026. Organizers invite everyone to come and celebrate the race's 10th anniversary. The race starts in downtown Boyne City and goes to Avalanche Mountain, with 1 to 3 laps around the course. There is an 800 ft. elevation gain, 22% maximum grade, and a one lap option. Stiggs Brewery & Kitchen hosts the after party and awards ceremony. Register and learn more.
PAINTINGS AUCTION - The Boyne City Booster Foundation has been gifted six original oil paintings by the late Paul Pfahler, long-time coach and teacher at Boyne City High School, to sell as a fundraiser. The foundation is placing each painting on auction for the month of November through the BC Booster Foundation Facebook page with a minimum bid of $100 for each. Paintings are on display at The HomeAgain Store at 118 Water St. All proceeds will go towards the mission of the BC Booster Foundation to support the students of Boyne City Public Schools. How to place your bid? Each painting is pictured in a Boyne City Booster Foundation facebook post. Click here to access. Place your bid amount in the comments on the picture that you wish to bid on. Bid increments are at least $10 above the previous bid. Bids will close at 11:59 p.m. on November 30, and winners will be announced on December 1.
HOLIDAY ART MARKET - From now through Dec. 24. the Boyne Arts Center will be hosting their popular Holiday Market. Open from 12-4 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, the Holiday Market features “gifts for everyone on your list.” All items are handmade by local artists, providing a unique array of affordable gifts. Stop by at 7 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 22 during Earlier Than the Bird for extra savings for those shopping in their pajamas. The Boyne Arts Center is located above Café Sante at One Water Street, Suite 203, which is accessible by elevator or stairs. Boynearts.org.
GOOD NEIGHBORS FOOD PANTRY is holding its annual “Let’s Talk Turkey” campaign to help put Thanksgiving 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.
BOYNE AREA SENIOR CENTER is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays and serves daily lunches from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. For seniors ages 60+, the lunch donation is $3, for ages 59 and under, $10; and for children 12 and under, $8. Here is the December lunch menu, and the December activity calendar.
| | Regional News from Bridge Michigan | | |
For 118 years, Michigan State University Extension has existed to serve the public with programs ranging from canning classes to soil testing and financial literacy workshops. Now, it aims to bill itself as an antidote to online misinformation.
* * *
Give it up for Korson’s Tree Farms in Sidney. The west Michigan tree farm supplied this year’s Christmas tree for the White House, the now-famous fir is the first Michigan holiday tree that has had the honors in 40 years. Michigan is the nation’s third-biggest Christmas tree producer, growing 2 million in 2022 and trailing Oregon and North Carolina.
* * *
Sky watch: A flash over northern Michigan early Sunday enthralled skywatchers, many of whom captured on film what they called an "unconfirmed meteorite." NASA says it was likely part of a comet and believes the rock disintegrated above Lake Huron. Nonetheless, it put on a "rare" show, experts say. Watch: Bright meteor streaks across Michigan skies.
| | City of Boyne City Municipal News | | |
Main Street has two board seats open
Have you ever considered working with like-minded people to serve your community and the downtown area? “We have the opportunity you have been looking for,” says Boyne City Main Street Executive Director Ingrid Day. Main Street will have two seats on the board of directors available for four-year terms that begin February, 2026. The commitment involves monthly board and committee meetings and taking the time to become familiar with the organization’s purposes and activities.
Interested? Fill out this application and either drop off a hard copy at 113 S. Lake St. or email to mainstreet@boynecity.com. The application deadline is December 19. For questions, please call 231-582-9009.
BOARD OF REVIEW VACANCIES - The City of Boyne City is seeking applicants for one open position and two alternative positions on the Board of Review. The Board of Review is comprised of three members, with two alternative positions to fill in when needed, each serving a three-year term. Members are responsible for examining, reviewing and correcting the assessment roll developed by the City Assessor as well as hearing and considering appeals from property owners who feel their property has been incorrectly assessed. The Board meets in March, July, and December. Two sessions in March are full day sessions. If you are interested in getting involved or learning more about helping to make sure that property taxes are levied correctly, please contact City Clerk/Treasurer Jessica Puroll at (231) 582-0334 or jpuroll@boynecity.gov. Submit an application by December 19. Application forms are available online here or at City Hall.
| | SIGN UP FOR CITY ALERTS - The City of Boyne City has launched a new Alerts feature on our website to help you stay up-to-date on projects, notices, and other important things happening around town. It’s designed to be a quick, easy way to get real-time updates, as they become available, directly to your email or phone. Sign up at: https://www.boynecity.gov/enotify/index.php. | | |
CITY MEETINGS – Click here for board information, agendas, and minutes.
> City Commission's next regular meeting is at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 9. Agenda page.
| | |
The flatiron building that once sat on the corner of E. Main and Boyne Avenue. The building is credited as being built by Timothy D. Parmalee, a farmer and early resident of Evangeline Township. It began its life as a store on the first floor with a residence for the owners upstairs. In 1907 it was purchased by a trio of Boyne City physicians, who opened a medical facility known as the Boyne City Sanitarium. This is the only known photograph with this building as the main subject of the image. Note that the street address appears above the door as 431 and the door glass reads: Boyne City Sanitarium. Courtesy of the Patrick McCleary collection. (Special thanks to postcard dealer Wally Jung of Lansing, who located and sold me this image. His comment was, “I thought of you as soon as I saw it, Patrick/” A small sum later and Boyne City history was preserved!).
THROUGH THE HISTORIAN'S LENS
Physicians join forces to create the Boyne City Sanitarium in the Parmalee Flatiron Building
By Patrick McCleary, Throughthehistorianslens@gmail.com
The Charlevoix County History Preservation Society
In the summer of 1907, three local physicians joined forces and formed a corporation known as the Boyne City Sanitarium. They secured ownership of what was then known as the “Parmalee Building,” located on the corner of Boyne Avenue and E. Main Street. By December of that same year, it opened its doors to the public. It was agreed upon by many that this modern Sanitarium was second to none - even to those in cities twice the population of Boyne City at that time. Workmen were kept busy remodeling and rearranging the building to suit the needs of both the doctors and their patients.
Located on the first floor were the offices of the physicians along with a general ward and a very modern operating room. The latter of which was said to contain ‘the latest instruments and appliances known to modern surgery.” Also on the first floor was a complete bacteriological and chemical laboratory used to diagnose all classes and types of disease.
On the second floor of the Sanitarium there were 10 private rooms for patients, each one allowing for all of the privacy they would have in their own homes. The Sanitarium was presided over by an experienced trained nurse, who was provided with living quarters in the building and was available to patients at all times of the day or night. There was, however, one clearly posted stipulation… “no quarantinable disease will be admitted to the Sanitarium.”
The officers of the Sanitarium were Dr. W.H. Marshall, Dr. H.E. Boice, and Dr. W. E. Tew. The downtown office locations of Drs. Boice and Tew were closed and a general downtown office was established for all three in what was then Dr. Marshall’s office. It was located over the Central Drug Store on Water Street. One physician was left in charge of the downtown office at all times, the others making house calls and staffing the Sanitarium. In this way, patients were able to reach one of them at any time, much like an urgent care of today. Boyne residents could receive attention within the new Sanitarium setting or meet with the “on call” physician in the usual office setting. The three physicians brought to early Boyne City a very diverse knowledge base. When it came to “delicate and obstinate cases, the combined knowledge of the three doctors [was] available at all times.”
| | |
Sanitarium Secretary Dr. W. E. Tew
Regular readers of The Boyne Citizen and Through the Historian’s Lens may recall a past feature article on the life and times of Dr. W. Elwood Tew. He is seen here in his automobile parked directly in front of his South Lake Street office.
According to the Articles of Incorporation of the company, each physician was allowed a 60-day annual leave of absence in order to take up post-graduate work. This allowed each doctor to “thoroughly equip themselves in the most modern advances of both medicine and surgery.” Tickets were sold to individuals, which entitled them to admission to the Sanitarium and the privilege of seeking the advice of all three of the physicians. The cost for each ticket was $8 per person. Family tickets were also issued, entitling any or all members of a family to full admission and service. The cost of the family ticket has yet to be discovered.
The president, Dr. Marshall, is said to have been a resident in Boyne for four years prior to the 1907 date and had developed a large patient base. He was a graduate of the Toronto Medical College and had taken post-graduate courses in the Chicago Medical College and the Chicago Polyclinic Medical School. Before coming to Boyne City, he practiced his profession at Vanderbilt in Otsego County. He was also the Charlevoix County Coroner at the time of the Sanitarium venture.
Regular readers of the Boyne Citizen and Through the Historian’s Lens may recall a past feature article on the life and times of Dr. W. Elwood Tew. His office was located on South Lake Street prior to his relocation to Dr. Marshall’s Central Drug Store location. Having served the community for eight years prior to the Sanitarium’s creation, Dr. Boice was also very well-known and brought an extensive list of patients to the table.
The Boyne City Sanitarium was officially opened on or about December 1, 1907, and had a very impressive run. The piece of information most lacking at this time is when the services here ended, and who occupied this location between that date and World War II. Around that time, the lower floor was again owned and operated by an older couple who were very popular with the children from this area of town. After WWII, the upper story was converted into apartments. Local veteran Harold J. Lemons, his wife, Lillia, along with two sons moved into one of these after their return from the Philippines, where they had been married. Their two daughters were born in this location.
The late Oral Sutliff (1937-2018), an early member of the Boyne City Fire Department, was present when the building burned to the ground (exact year unknown). In an oral history interview with Monica Peck, director of the Boyne District Library, Sutliff provided some moving details about the tragic end to this well-known Boyne City landmark.
Our readers write
In honor of Thanksgiving, I have based each of my November articles around images and information that have been located, shared with me, or gifted to me. I wish that I could have included more of the hundreds of items that fall into this category over the past 30+ years. Please know that you and your generous efforts and contributions are appreciated. They are not only being preserved but also put to good use in documenting Boyne City and Charlevoix County.
As 2026 quickly looms over the horizon, I would also like to thank those of you who correspond- sharing your comments, stories, information, photographs, research ideas and suggestions for future articles through e-mail, Facebook and other commentary. It is not only kind of you, but it truly touches me deeply when I am entrusted with information and material and collections for preservation, further research and education.
As I often share with those attending my quarterly genealogy classes at the Boyne District Library, “history preservation” involves much more than just looking over some interesting photographs and then putting them into a box and doing nothing further. It is my goal in 2026 to share more photographs and fact-based details pertaining to Boyne City’s truly remarkable history. In doing so, I would also ask that you come forward. Share a memory. Tell a story. Scan or allow me to scan early photographs of homes, farms, buildings, and businesses. Together, we have the ability to preserve a priceless archive of information.
My best wishes to you all for a happy and hearty Thanksgiving!
Patrick
* * *
While I can’t share all of the commentary that I receive, here are a few of those that I have received this past week. Thank you for your kind words.
“Your stories each week are so interesting and well written. Thanks, and look forward to your historical stories each week.”
Ed Geck, Boyne City
“Patrick McCleary has become a trusted and authentic historical source for the region and community we call home.”
Gregg Smith, Traverse City
“As I anxiously await reading your weekly columns that my sister shares with me, I can’t help but think how pleased and proud Bob Morgridge is to see that he has entrusted the right person to continue his local history legacy. I hope that you will be presenting local history programs again next summer. They were the highlight of my past visits to Boyne City.”
Johanna Converse, Flint Hill, Virginia
(Note: Johanna is a descendant of Boyne City’s early Burdick family.)
Re: Bergy Bros. Store Article - You touched my heart. I had just been thinking about Boyne. Wondering what happens to my memories. The stories my dad told me; our summers at Mrs. Boylan's cottage (In the 1950’s, Mrs. Boylan’s cottage was the very last cottage down the Glenwood Beach road, right next to the state park property and the artesian well); Everett Wescott’s cottages that we rented in the 1960s; the old ice house on the way into town; looking down at those huge pilings from our boat as we neared town; the window on the Bergy house that fell down on my Dad’s head as a boy; their quarantine during one of Boyne’s epidemics. My Grandpa Bergy would go to the door to look in the house and talk through the glass; and how my dad “tested” the store’s bicycles by riding them up the street. Also, how my Aunt Margaret in old age cried with gratitude when we donated the large frame of Bergy Bros. information (to the Boyne City Historical Museum), because she wanted the store to be remembered in the future.
The answer is - not all of my little memories will get passed on, as they are just that, little. Your article did the store proud. It was so well written and included facts you researched that even I did not know. So now it can live on in history. For me personally, it was perfect timing. When I read this tonight, it did my heart good. Maybe their story will live on after all. A million thanks to you from myself, sister, my dad, my aunt and my grandma and Grandpa Bergy!
Barb Mendoza, Denver Colorado
| | > 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.
| | |
Founding Donors
$5000+
Charlevoix County Community Foundation Geographic Enrichment Grant
Cortright Family Community Fund
| |  | |
The Hill Donors
$1000 - $4999
Kirk and Lynne Jabara
Pat and Jane O'Brien
Anonymous
Andrew Smith
Jeff and Dawn Caine
X and Mary Gaudard
| | |
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
Sally Hara
Steve and Jean Van Dam
Martin Tuck
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
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
Peter Moss
Gregory Damman
Polly Stillson
Anonymous
Rolf Bates
Robert SontagLauren MacIntyre
Cameron O'Keefe
Cheryl and Joe Wald
Ralph and Kathleen Galbraith
Tom and Debbie Neidhamer
Linda Burgert
Lynda Christensen
Ed and Cindy Grice
Mary Jane Cargill
Scott and Kelly Kennedy
Karen and Glenn Mertz
Christopher Jones
Brian and Charlotte Battjes
Kyle Marshall
Dave Skornia
Barbara and George Ellwanger
(continued next column)
| | |
Lake Charlevoix Donors (continued)
$100 to $499
Beth and Jeff Freeman
Nancy and Steve Weber
JoEllen Rudolph
Derek & Michelle Shankland
Janice Salisbury
Mary Foucard
John and Jane Rozycki
Ruth and Dave Skop
Diane Carmony
Ali Cain
Jerry and Donna Swift
Kathleen Hoffman
Mindy Weigel
Linda Yudasz
John and Meg McClorey
William and Pam Gnodtke
Mindy Weigel
John and Jan Bennish
Anonymous
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
Lynn Hall
Sam DeCamp
Cynthia McSurely
Ron and Kristen Lahner
Peggy Kerr
Bill & Diane Conklin
Alice Wright
Becky Nohel
Richard and Vera Post
Anita Hill
James Churchill
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 and Randy Zipp
Richard Persiani
Nancy Newman
Bill Schumann
Ronald and Susan Ludgin
Sharyn and Doug Bean
Karla and Sheldon Buckmaster
Michelle Mitchum
Jerry Mann
| | |
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.
BARREL BACK - 4069 M-75, Walloon Lake, (231) 535-6000.
LIVE MUSIC:
- Wednesday, Nov. 26 - Lara Fullford, 5-8 p.m.
BC LANES/THE VENUE BAR & GRILL - 1199 M-75 S, Boyne City, (231) 582-6353.
> Open bowling: 3-9 p.m. Tuesdays, 3-10 p.m. Fridays, 12-10 p.m. Saturdays, 12-9 p.m. Sundays.
> LIVE MUSIC Saturdays:
- Saturday, Nov. 29 - Sandy & The Bandits, 7-10 p.m.
- Saturday, Dec. 6 - Detailed, 8-11 p.m.
- Saturday, Dec. 13 - Yankee Station, 8-11 p.m.
- Saturday, Dec. 20 - Ought 4 Nought, 8-11 p.m.
- Saturday, Dec. 27 - TBA
BOYNE ARTS CENTER - 1 Water Street, Suite 203, Boyne City. (231) 622-2073.
> Upcoming classes and exhibits:
BOYNE CITY FARMERS MARKET - Indoors at the Veterans Park Pavilion, 207 N. Lake Street, Boyne City. (231) 582-9009. Open Saturdays, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
> Live music:
- Saturday, Nov. 29 - Rhett DuCouer
- Saturday, Dec. 13 - Terry Coveyou
- Saturday, Dec. 27 - Rhett DuCouer
BOYNE CITY TAP ROOM - 220 S. Lake St., Boyne City, (231) 459-4487.
- Mondays - Trivia
- Wednesday, Nov. 26 - Adam and the Cabana Boys with special guest Ben R Mayne
- Friday, Nov. 28 - Patrick Ryan solo
- Saturday, Nov. 29 - The BIG Game Watch Party, Michigan vs. Ohio State, 12 noon.
- Saturday afternoon/ evening - Rivalry games and end of regular season matchups
- Saturday, Nov. 29 - Adam Engleman and Patrick Ryan, 7 p.m.
BOYNE DISTRICT LIBRARY - 201 East Main St., Boyne City, 231-582-7861.
- Monday, Dec. 1 - We'll be celebrating *Cider* Monday. Stop by and pick up some tangy apple cider and sweet goodies. Free, naturally.
-
December newsletter highlights: Self-serve Gift-Wrapping Station, Dungeons & Dragons *Teen,* Crafts & Arts: Hannukah, Scratch Board Postcards, Beloved discussion, Blood Drive, Mobile Secretary of State. Kid Stuff: Jolly Gingerbread, Paint an Ornament, LEGO Build. Board Game Bonanza.
BOYNE MOUNTAIN - 1 Boyne Mountain Rd., Boyne Falls, (855) 688-7024.
> Weekly schedule of events and entertainment at all Boyne Mountain venues.
BOYNE VALLEY VINEYARDS - 05325 US 131 S, Petoskey, (231) 373-2090.
> LIVE MUSIC - Saturdays 2-6 p.m.
- Saturday, Nov. 29 – Chris Calleja
- Saturday, Dec. 6 - TBD (2-6)
- Saturday, Dec. 13 - Two Track Mind (2-6)
- Saturday, Dec. 20 - Chris Calleja (2-6)
- Saturday, Dec. 27 - TBD (4-7:30)
- Sunday, Dec. 28 - TBD (4-7:30)
- Saturday, Dec. 29 - Chris Calleja (4-7:30)
- Tuesday, Dec. 30 - Two Track Mind (4-7:30)
- Wednesday, Dec. 31 - Michelle Chenard (4-7:30)
CAFE SANTE - 1 Water St., Boyne City, (231) 582-8800.
> LIVE MUSIC
- Mondays through Dec. 15 - The Shifties, 6-9 p.m.
- Friday, Dec. 19 - Sean Bielby, 7-10 p.m.
- Saturday, Dec. 20 - Nelson Olstrom, 7-10 p.m.
- Friday, Dec. 26 - Chris Calleja, 7-10 p.m.
- Saturday, Dec. 27 - Michelle Chenard, 7-10 p.m.
- Wednesday, Dec. 31 - New Year's Eve Party with the Shifties, 8 p.m.-12 a.m.
CROOKED TREE ARTS CENTER - 461 E. Mitchell Street. Petoskey, (231) 347-4337.
> See website for updated art shows, entertainment, and children's activities.
-
Saturday, Dec. 13 - Downtown Sound: Charlie Millard Band with Lara Fullford and Dane Tollas, 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. Tickets range from $10 to $40 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.
-
Larry McCray will perform at 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 28; doors open at 6. Tickets are $45. Call to reserve tickets.
GREAT LAKES CENTER FOR THE ARTS - 800 Bay Harbor Drive, Petoskey, (231) 439 -2600.
- Dec. 6 - A Christmas Carol - Allen Fitzpatrick returns to the stage with his one-man adaptation of the beloved Dickens story.
- Dec. 11-12 - Great Lakes Chamber Orchestra presents Messiah by Candlelight
- Dec. 13 - Great Lakes Chamber Orchestra presents Family Holiday Pops Matinee, A Festive Concert of Carols, Classics, and Holiday Cheer for All Ages
- Dec. 15 - Dorothy Gerber Youth Orchestra presents A Holiday Strings Celebration
- Dec, 20-21 - Crooked Tree Arts Center School of Ballet Presents The Nutcracker, A Holiday Classic Performed by Young and Professional Dancers from Northern Michigan
- Dec. 23 - Midtown Men Holiday Hits. Stars from the Original Broadway Cast of Jersey Boys
- Dec. 27 - An Evening with Graham Young of Michigan Rattlers. Intimate & Acoustic
LAKE STREET PUB - 202 S. Lake St., Boyne City, (231) 497-6031.
> TRIVIA NIGHT - Wednesdays, 7-9 p.m.
MUSKRAT DISTILLING - 121 Water St., Boyne City, (231) 268-0178.
> KARAOKE - 8 to 11 p.m. every Wednesday except Dec. 24 & 31
> LIVE MUSIC and events:
- Friday, Nov. 28 - SAXU4IA, 8 p.m.
-
Friday, Dec. 5 - Eric Jaqua, 8 p.m.
- Monday, Dec. 8 - Bloomin' Sanity Woman's Happy Hour, 5-7 p.m.
- Friday, Dec. 12 - Sean Bielby, 8 p.m.
- Friday, Dec. 19 - SAXU4IA, 8 p.m.
- Saturday, Dec. 20 - First ever Winter Solstice Ball from 6-11:30 p.m. Tickets are $50 including two drink tickets and access to all the fun activities. Dress like you’re headed to King’s Palace in Terrasen or the dance floors of Velaris or Crescent City, and be ready to celebrate the new winter season. There will be dancing, a vendor market, and themed cocktails. Ticket required for entry.
- Saturday, Dec. 27 - Seasonal Road, 8 p.m.
- Wednesday, Dec. 31 - DJ Lee Blossom, , 8-11:59 p.m.
PIED PIPER ROLLER RINK - 04454 M-75 N, Walloon Lake. Admission $8, skate rental $2. Candy, chips, soda/pop, and pizza available for purchase.
- Friday, Dec. 12 - Adult Skating Night (18+), 5-9 p.m.
- Saturday, Dec. 13 - Family Holiday Skate and Ugly Sweater Contest (all ages), 2-6 p.m. with sweater judging at 5 p.m.
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. Tuesdays.
-
Wednesday, Nov. 26 - Project 6, 'Twas the Night Before Thanksgiving Party
- Saturday, Dec. 6 - Judy Kuheana Benefit Breakfast for Manna Food Project, 8-10:30 a.m.
STIGGS BREWERY & KITCHEN - 112 S. Park St., Boyne City, (231) 497-6100. Closed Mondays and Tuesdays for the winter.
- Thursday, Dec. 4 - Open Mic Night with Peter Jensen, 6-9 p.m.
- Saturday, Dec. 13 - Karaoke Night-Holiday Style, 8 p.m.
WALLOON WATERSHED - 4128 M-75 , Walloon Lake, (231) 535-6048.
Live music 6-9 p.m.:
- Wednesdays - Pete Kehoe
- Thursdays - Laura Crowe
| | © Copyright 2025 Boyne Citizen, all rights reserved | | | | |
