March 6, 2025 | Issue #25 | Past issues

LaFrance cuts the ribbon

The 1917 American LaFrance fire truck “cut the ribbon” for the grand opening of the Boyne Heritage Center’s Glass Room exhibit — the first permanent section of the interpretive center last Thursday, Feb. 27. A nice crowd was on hand to applaud the old truck as it drove in for the ceremony. The LaFrance was the city’s first motorized fire apparatus, making the leap from horse-drawn fire vehicles. 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. The Glass Room exhibit features the LaFrance and the restored 1904 Old Town Clock. The Boyne Heritage Center in City Hall is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Inside this issue

• Low measles vaccination rate make county "vulnerable"
• It’s city budget time; will they lower the millage again?
• Grain Train Market: Peace, love, and brown rice
• "Mamma Mia!" nears sellout for this weekend
• Chamber plans Expo, State of Community, Biz After Hours
• Leadership Charlevoix County takes ‘Hope On The Move’
• Mayor meets with State Representative Fairbairn
• RSN produces highlight reel of Coates’ ‘Halftime Hotseat’
• News briefs, Municipal News, Obituaries
• "Our Night Sky" - Sunspots and the Aurora Borealis
• Patrick McCleary history: Women's History Month
• Thanks to the donors who keep the news coming!
• Music and entertainment listings

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Low measles vaccination rate makes Charlevoix County and region "vulnerable" to an outbreak

By Jim Baumann, jim@boynecitizen.com

With a major measles outbreak in Texas making headlines, how is Charlevoix County’s immunization rate these days? Not good, according to Dr. Joshua Meyerson, medical director of the Health Department of Northwest Michigan. 

Meyerson told the Boyne Citizen this week that the most recent immunization report card shows only 76% of children ages 19 through 35 months in Charlevoix County have had the Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) vaccination. The overall vaccination rate in the Texas county that had the recent outbreak was 82%. 

“We are vulnerable,” Meyerson said. Charlevoix County’s 76% rate “is not high enough to prevent spread, so that is concerning.” 

Neighboring Emmet, Antrim and Otsego Counties are doing slightly better with 79% vaccination rates for the 19-35 month age group. Meyerson said the rates have dropped about five percentage points in the last five years.

Charlevoix County and most of Northwest Michigan have not had a case of measles in many years. Last year, Michigan saw its first documented measles cases since 2019. 

“Just because we don’t have any measles cases now, that doesn’t mean it can’t happen,” Meyerson said. “Spring break is coming soon, and people like to get out of town and go to theme parks and amusement parks, where there are large crowds of people from other cities and even other countries. The risk is there.” He noted that “Measles is one of the most contagious diseases out there.”

Meyerson said the MMR vaccine is “very effective,” providing 97% protection for those who have had two doses, with the second one coming when children are 4 years old and about to enter kindergarten. He said the parents of about 7.3% of children in his department’s four-county area opt out of school vaccination requirements. 

Others may not get their children vaccinated just because they don’t have time, or their work hours make it difficult. Since the Covid epidemic, Meyerson said, “We’ve also seen that people have some mistrust of the government and the medical community.”

Cost should not be a barrier, Meyerson said. The Vaccines for Children Program provides vaccines to children whose parents or guardians may not be able to afford them. 

> The Health Department of Northwest Michigan will provide free vaccinations to anyone who calls their toll-free number, 800-432-4121, and makes an appointment.

> "Second-to-last: That’s where Leelanau County ranks in Michigan when it comes to measles vaccination rates for young children." Leelanau Ticker story.

CORRECTION

We listed the wrong date for the Boyne Area Chamber Business Expo in last week’s edition. The Expo will be held from 4-7 p.m. Tuesday, April 17, at Boyne Mountain Resort. Here are details and registration for the event, and you can read our story on the Expo below.

It’s city budget time; will they lower the millage again? Mayor lists his priorities

By Jim Baumann, jim@boynecitizen.com 

It’s budget time for the City of Boyne City, which means a flurry of upcoming meetings to hammer out what was a $20-million budget last year. 

The City Commission, city manager, and department heads will do the majority of this work in three meetings starting at 8 a.m. Thursday, March 13; Monday, May 17; and, if necessary, Wednesday, March 19. 

Meanwhile, City Manager Mike Cain and City Clerk-Treasurer Jessica Puroll are finishing all the prep work now. If they follow the same schedule as last year, they asked department heads to submit their budgets by early February, and Cain is expected to present a proposed budget at the next regular City Commission meeting at 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 11. 

Last year, Cain proposed maintaining the then-current general operating rate of 15.51 mills and reducing the city facility debt from 1.7 to 1.6 mills. By the end of the process, a month or so later, the Commission reduced total property taxes by slightly more than one mill, reducing the operating millage from 15.51 to 14.95, and dropping the facility debt millage from 1.70 to 1.235. 

About a month ago, City Manager Cain asked the five city commission members to email him their budget priorities, and Mayor Tim Nemecek shared his emails on the topic with the Boyne Citizen. 

First on his list was “lowering the millage,” which would be quite an accomplishment if achieved two years in a row. Reached by phone for comment, Nemecek said whether the millage can be reduced will be determined by “going through the process” of evaluating priorities and discussing the budget. 

“If the opportunity arises, I know lowering the millage will be a priority for most of us” on the City Commission, he said. Nemecek said better efficiencies in the EMS Department and in a new Capital Improvement Plan might make it possible.

He said additional topics on his list “are not only my ideas, but are things brought to me throughout the year, from community members and city employees.” Here’s his list, in addition to lowering the millage:

• Investment opportunity (municipal sovereign wealth fund)
• Parks & recreation director
• Marina Harbormaster
• V plow unit for DPW
• Public access point enhancements
• Twinning City discussion (regarding the relationship with the Boyne Valley of Ireland) 
• Dog Park shelter - gravel for muddy entrance way, propane for heater in winter, shelter storage during summer, Parks & Rec involvement, and capital improvement plan with Dog Park priorities. (What city parks are in the plan?)
• Theater development - next steps? Are funds needed for next steps? Is Main Street developing a budget line item for next steps?
• North Boyne city property development for housing.
• Paving of unpaved roads - 10-year plan status.

> Mayor Nemecek discusses city issues with newly elected State Rep Parker Fairbairn. Story below.

Grain Train Natural Foods Market: Peace, love, and brown rice in Boyne City

By Geri Dietze, gdietze27@gmail.com

The Grain Train first appeared on the scene in 1971 in Petoskey, embracing the natural food movement that had spread across the nation and the world during the counterculture 1960s and 1970s. 

Over the years, the Petoskey location grew, thanks to co-op members and nonmembers alike, by offering a reliable source for local and regional organic, clean, natural, and minimally processed food choices, plus much more. 

Food co-ops first appeared in the late 18th and early 19th centuries in Europe, before spreading to the United States. Co-ops were a response to the Industrial Revolution and the population shift from farms to cities, spurring a reliance on stores to purchase food rather than grow it. Full history of co-ops.

By 2013, Grain Train was looking to expand, and Boyne City, bolstered by petitions signed by hundreds of residents, was chosen as the new site, a likely choice following Boyne’s transition into a four-season destination with a restored downtown, a thriving industrial park, and an energetic, civic-minded coterie of residents. 

Clearly there was a market for shoppers looking for variety, alternative food choices, and a closer-to-home option for those in neighboring towns who previously had to drive to Petoskey for organic products. The 1,550 square foot storefront , one quarter the size of the Petoskey store, opened in June 2014.

Jack Laurent, who joined Grain Train Petoskey in 2002, was chosen as the first manager in Boyne City. Laurent was a good choice - he lived in Boyne City and had a business plan for starting his own natural food store, so he was already invested in the idea. He says those early years were a time of curiosity for some and an added convenience for others. “We already had a number of co-op members (in Boyne City,)” but it was Covid that changed the bottom line. “Sales exploded,” he explained. “People felt comfortable, and our curbside program did well.” 

Current general manager Andy Dyer concurs, pointing out that the pandemic saw a “30% increase in sales between 2019 and 2020.”

A recent news highlight for the Grain Train is the hiring of new CEO Michael Walter in January. The announcement said “Michael brings a wealth of experience in cooperative leadership, having served most recently as Store Operations Manager at Belfast Community Co-op in Maine, where he led a successful expansion.”

Boyne store manager Dyer likes his new boss. “Michael Walter has a co-op background and fresh perspective on the future of our natural foods markets,” he said. “He brings optimism and substance, with a unique human perspective, to a rather uncertain economic landscape. We're very excited to move forward under his leadership, and for the future of the Grain Train."

Product guidelines: keeping it real, keeping it clean

The Grain Train relies on rigorous comprehensive standards when sourcing products. There are no artificial dyes, flavorings, antibiotics, growth hormones, or chemical additives. Choices are safe, healthy, flavorful, and sustainable, and reflect a variety of household budgets and shopping patterns. Workers’ rights, animal welfare, and environmental standards are part of the equation as well. 

The Boyne store has a smaller but carefully sourced produce section, a wide variety of dairy and non-dairy products, and fresh eggs at a number of price points, plus grass-fed meats and free-range poultry. Organic and minimally processed canned goods, sauces, pastas, spices, and much more fill the shelves. There is a large frozen food section and a grab-and-go cooler with sandwiches, salads, and snacks. 

Free trade and organic coffees, both packaged and grind-your-own, plus a useful selection of bulk foods are always available. There is also a nice selection of vitamins, supplements, and health and wellness products. Manager Andy Dyer adds that young mothers are a growing demographic. “Generally, they are the ones sourcing good food for their family and children.” 

Do’s and don’ts for the Grain Train newbie

Do just go in and browse the aisles. Look at the brands, the selections, and read the ingredient labels. Ask questions of the friendly staff. Check out the large number of local and regional producers and get to know some of the bigger health-food companies. “When you come in the store,” says Dyer, “I’m here. I spend much of my time answering questions.” 

Don’t assume that co-ops are always more expensive. Yes, some items are more, but most are not prohibitive, even for a budget. Plus, cost comes with increased quality.

Do send a message through your grocery spending. A dollar spent on a smaller and safer food supplier is a dollar that circulates throughout the community and the region, and provides an alternative to giant food corporations.

Don’t forget to look for attractive sales and discounts on a variety of items, especially clean and or organic produce, plus quality beef and poultry. 

Do ask about the $5-off coupon.

Do visit the website and learn about the co-op mission.

Own it: It’s easy to become a member

Anyone can shop at the Grain Train, but some folks choose to join the co-op and become an owner, having a voice and a vote, and enjoying extra savings and shopping benefits. And, there are attractive payment options: Pay the one-time-only fee of $200 and receive a $10 gift card; or pay $25 when you sign up, start enjoying benefits right away, and pay $25 annually until the full $200 is paid. Plus, the fee is refundable under most circumstances. “It’s your money,” Dyer adds. “You get it back if you want.”

Owner benefits include 10% discount once per month; rebate potential; 1%-back loyalty program, plus double loyalty points on certain products; owner-only deals; and special-order discount program through co-ops nationwide. 

> For more information, visit graintrain.coop. The Boyne City store at 104 S. Park Street is open Monday-Friday 9 am - 7 pm, Saturdays 9 am - 6 pm, Sundays 10 am - 6 pm., phone 231-459-4522.

Store manager Andy Dyer above. Grain Train store interior below.

The cast of Mamma Mia! held their final dress rehearsals this week.

"Mamma Mia!" nears first weekend sellout

Tickets are nearly sold out for the first weekend of the Boyne City High School Drama Department’s spring musical, “Mamma Mia!” As of Tuesday, only about 100 seats were available for each show this weekend. Erin Zucker of BCHS Drama advises, “Don’t wait and be left out! I would NOT wait to get them at the door. Please reserve your tickets/seats ASAP.”

Showtimes are 7 p.m. on the next two weekends, Friday and Saturday, March 7 and 8, and March 14 and 15 at the high school Performing Arts Center, which has a seating capacity of about 600.

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.

From left are Chelsey Hertel as Sophie, Jamie Ploe as Donna, Jamus Schraw as Sky, Melody March as Rosie, Isaiah Uselman as Eddie, Katie Hunt as Tanya and LaKota Barber as Pepper. This scene is where the characters meet in Greece the day before Sophie & Sky’s wedding. Donna introduces her friends to her hotel staff.



Jamie Ploe as Donna with the cast singing “Money, Money, Money.”

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 from 4-7 p.m. Tuesday, April 17 (details and registration), and the State of the Community luncheon will be held Friday, May 2 (details coming soon).

The Boyne Citizen will cover both events, in fact we have signed up for a booth and a sponsorship for the Business Expo. "Mark your calendar for April 17, and stop by and meet the staff and board members of the Boyne Citizen - plus lots of other local businesses, restaurants, and organizations," Editor Jim Baumann said.

The 13th Annual Business Expo and Taste of Boyne is one of the largest business networking events in Northern Michigan and will include about 60 exhibitor booths from area businesses and organizations. This exciting event includes great food, networking, music, business exhibits and more at the Boyne Mountain Civic Center.

The public and Chamber members are welcome to attend. Admission is $10 and includes all Taste of Boyne food booths. Boyne Mountain will be providing a shuttle bus to and from all parking lots.

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS - 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.

Leadership Charlevoix County partners with Kiersten’s Ride to take Hope On The Move

The Leadership Charlevoix County Class of 2025 has teamed up with Kiersten’s Ride to launch a powerful outreach campaign focused on suicide prevention and mental health awareness—and they need your help to make it happen.

At the heart of this campaign are resource stickers that will be placed throughout Charlevoix County, each carrying a simple, true, powerful message reminding everyone that there is Hope. Every decal features a QR code linking directly to vital mental health resources through Kiersten’s Ride, ensuring that help is always within reach.

The Leadership class goal is to raise $13,000 by May. They are also raising funds for a traveling enclosed trailer for Kiersten’s Ride, which will serve as:

• A safe space for critical conversations and connections at community events.
• A storage hub for mental health outreach materials.
• A rolling reminder of hope, spreading awareness wherever it goes.

A press release on the project says, “Together, we can strengthen the safety net for those in crisis and bring awareness to life-saving resources right here at home. Every dollar makes a difference - donate today! Be part of this life-changing mission. Your donation helps spread hope across Charlevoix County and ensures that help is accessible to those who need it most.”

The class encourages supporters to stay connected and follow the project on Facebook. They will keep you updated on upcoming fundraisers, events, and updates as they work toward their $13,000 goal. And if you or someone you know is looking for help, they encourage you to visit www.kierstensride.org/help.

Upcoming fundraiser events:

• Moon Walk for Hope on the Move, Boyne Mountain Cross Country Center. Friday, March 14, from 7-9pm. Entry by donation, 2k snowshoe hike, food and drinks provided, bonfires, and more.
• Brewing Hope at Bier’s Inwood Brewery, 17959 Ferry Rd, Charlevoix. March 27, from 5-9pm. $1 per pint of beer sold will be donated to Kiersten’s Ride.
• Tap Into Hope at Stiggs Brewery, 112 S Park St. Boyne City. April 2, from 5-9pm. $5/per ticket - enter to win a Brew School Experience ($350 value).

> How to Donate (please mention ‘LCC’ on all donations). Mail a check to Kiersten’s Ride, 04316 Cosier Rd, East Jordan, MI, 49727. To donate via Venmo, use the QR code on this flyer.

Mayor meets with State Representative Fairbairn

Boyne City Mayor Tim Nemecek met Monday with newly elected State Representative Parker Fairbairn to discuss key issues affecting Boyne City and explore opportunities for state support in addressing local needs. The meeting, held at Boyne City Hall, was part of what Nemececk said were his “ongoing efforts to advocate for economic growth, infrastructure improvements, and community development.”

Nemecek initiated contact with Representative Fairbairn’s office on Feb. 5, calling to request a meeting. Following guidance from Fairbairn’s Constituent Relations Director Steve Salyers, Nemecek submitted a formal request via email the same day, outlining the need for collaboration on matters such as economic development, housing, and state support in funding opportunities. Representative Fairbairn responded positively, and the meeting was scheduled for March 3.

During the meeting, Mayor Nemecek and Representative Fairbairn discussed several important topics, including:

• Economic development support – Exploring state support for theater development, marina rehabilitation, and support for small businesses.
• Housing development & funding – Identifying grants and resources to expand workforce and affordable housing in Boyne City.
• Child care support – Advocating for and supporting Boyne City in securing any state funding and assistance for local child-care providers.
• Infrastructure investment – Securing support for funding for water and wastewater infrastructure, roads, and emergency communication improvements. Notably, they discussed a $30,000 radio repeater needed at the Daifuku facility to ensure emergency responders have reliable communication inside the building.
• Tourism & outdoor recreation – Supporting initiatives that enhance Boyne City's trails, waterfront, and outdoor recreation economy.
• Ongoing collaboration – Establishing regular meetings between Boyne City leadership and Representative Fairbairn to maintain open communication on local and regional priorities.

“I appreciate Representative Fairbairn’s time and willingness to meet and engage with Boyne City leadership,” Nemecek said. “State-level collaboration is an essential part to our community’s success. I hope by continuing to work together with state leadership, I continue to find ways to secure the support, funding, and resources needed to help Boyne City thrive as a community.”

Rambler Sports Network produces highlight reel of Roger Coates’ “Halftime Hotseat”

Over the last 11 years, local teacher Roger Coates has allowed Boyne City to get to know some of its most famous and influential people in a different and unique way during the Rambler Sports Network productions of Boyne City Football, in a little segment called “The Halftime Hotseat.” 

Over the years, Coates and the RSN crew have featured an incredible medley of people on the Hotseat. From Pat O’Brien, to Mr. Stiggs, from Shari Culver and Joe McHugh to State Senator Wayne Schmidt, Coates has used his infectious personality to bring all these people out and provide a different glimpse into the personalities of our community.

RSN recently put together a highlight reel of some of these moments to share with their viewers and make our community laugh. They invited Coates on set to reflect on some of his memories. Little did he know that RSN was going to flip the script and put Coates himself on the Hotseat. The end result is sure to make you smile and feel part of Boyne City. Click here to watch the video from Facebook.

Middle School excellence

Boyne City Middle School is proud to be the recipient of the 2025 Education Excellence Award and a $2,500 grant from Set Seg and the Michigan Association of School Boards. This honor recognizes their commitment to raising the bar in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) education. BCMS remains dedicated to exploring cutting-edge STEM equipment and activities, ensuring we stay at the forefront of innovation. 

Stiggs Feed-A-Friend 2nd Annual Gala set for Saturday

Stiggs Feed-A-Friend, a 501c3 nonprofit organization dedicated to providing hot meals to community members facing challenges, will hold its second annual gala at 6 p.m. Saturday, March 8, at Gypsy Spirits in Petoskey. This event is hosted by Stiggs Brewery and Kitchen in collaboration with Gypsy Spirits.

Tickets are priced at $200 per person. The dress code features a black and white theme, which is elegant yet does not require formal attire. However, you are welcome to dress formally should you choose to do so. Event organizers said, “We warmly invite you to join us for an unforgettable evening that will feature exceptional cuisine, a fully stocked open bar offering extraordinary beverages, captivating music, and exquisite auction items. This is an event that you will truly not want to miss.”

To secure your spot, contact Natasha Hizelberger at 231-881-5605 or via email at natasha@stiggsbrewingcompany.com.

Citizen looks for freelance writers and summer intern

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

We have also contacted several universities to help us find a summer journalism intern, which is a half-time paid position. Details.

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Boyne Area News Briefs

BOYNE AREA SENIOR CENTER is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays and serves daily lunches from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. For seniors ages 60+, the donation is $3, for ages 59 and under, $8, and for children 12 and under, $6. Here is the March lunch menu, and here is the March activity calendar.

YOUNG STATE PARK - Due to a planned park enhancement project to fix drainage issues and replace both toilet/shower buildings, the Spruce campground is closed through June 15. A proposed $2.82 million in federal relief funding from the Building Michigan Together Plan made these renovations and others possible.

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.

PAINT THE TOWN RED - Tickets are 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. 

SUNDAY BREAKFAST - The Boyne Falls Public School Class of 2025 is hosting all-you-can-eat Sunday Breakfast from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. March 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. 

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 applicants for Compensation Commission

The City of Boyne City is now accepting applications for two open positions on the Compensation Commission. The commission is made up of five members, each serving a five-year term. Members are tasked with making recommendations regarding the salaries of elected officials, including the Mayor and City Commissioners. The commission normally meets only once or twice a year. If you are interested in getting involved contact City Clerk Treasurer Jessica Puroll at 231-582-0334 or jpuroll@boynecity.gov or submit an application by March 31. Application forms are available online or at City Hall. 

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.

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. 

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.

> City Commission budget work sessions at 8 a.m. March 13, 17 and 19. 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. 

• Compensation Commission 2 seats. Applications due 3/31.
• 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

Penelope Jo Garlock

August 20, 1961 ~ February 19, 2025 (age 63)

Dixie Lynn (Bricker) Lahti

June 25, 1952 ~ February 28, 2025 (age 72)

Sunspots are visible in this image taken in January by column author Rod Cortright.

OUR NIGHT SKY

How our Sun brings us the Aurora Borealis

This is the second of a new monthly column called “Our Night Sky” by Rod Cortright, an amateur astronomer and astrophotographer who lives north of Boyne City. He is also a NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassador who does educational outreach for the agency. In the summer, Rod is a Sky Docent at the Headlands International Dark Sky Park.

The number and intensity of auroras have increased in the past few years due to the Sun’s 11-year solar cycle. This cycle is caused by the movement of charged plasma inside the Sun, which generates a dynamo effect, creating magnetic fields. Because of the Sun’s differential rotation (its equator spins faster than its poles), magnetic field lines become twisted over time.

The Sun’s magnetic field is most tangled and complex at solar maximum, increasing sunspots, regions of strong magnetic activity. Also, during solar maximum, there is a marked increase in solar flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs), which eject billions of tons of charged particles into space. When these ejections are pointed at Earth, the charged particles interact with our planet’s magnetic field, which can result in more frequent and intense aurora activity. They can also affect satellites and communications. In severe geomagnetic storms, they can even affect the electrical grid.

Eventually, the Sun’s magnetic poles flip, with the north becoming south and the south becomes north. When this occurs, the magnetic field is more stable and orderly, and the Sun transitions to solar minimum. At these times, there are fewer sunspots, solar flares and CMEs. When this happens the Sun’s overall activity is at its lowest, meaning fewer disturbances to Earth’s space environment.

The Sun is presently at its solar maximum.

Harlow Willson and wife, Dr. Sara T. (Chase) Willson taken at their home in Boyne City. Photograph courtesy of Maxine Stark-Behling.

THROUGH THE HISTORIAN'S LENS

Celebrating Women’s History Month: Dr. Sara Thomasina (Chase) Willson (1865-1953)

By Patrick McCleary, Throughthehistorianslens@gmail.com

The Charlevoix County History Preservation Society

Some may not realize that March of each year is designated as Women’s History Month by presidential proclamation. The entire month is set aside to honor women’s contributions in American history. What began as a local celebration in Santa Rosa, California, in 1978 as a “Women’s Week” celebration sparked a movement that quickly spread across the country as other communities initiated their own Women’s History Week celebrations the following year.

In February 1980, President Jimmy Carter issued the first Presidential Proclamation declaring the Week of March 8, 1980, as National Women’s History Week. Subsequent presidents continued to proclaim a National Women’s History Week to take place in and around March 8th, until in 1987 Congress passed Public Law 100-9, designating March as “Women’s History Month.”

It is my hope that the contributions of our area women are recognized and celebrated throughout the entire calendar year. However, March offers us the opportunity to highlight some of the women who have helped to make Boyne City and Charlevoix County what it is today. I would like to begin my March series with Boyne City’s first female doctor, whose medical education and career all tell quite a remarkable story.

Born in 1865, Sara Chase was the eldest child of Civil War surgeon Dr. Milton Chase and his wife, Elizabeth (Moore) Chase. After finishing high school in 1891, she attended Ypsilanti Normal School and earned her teaching degree. She took a position in Traverse City as an English and science teacher. By 1896 though, she decided to leave teaching and attend the University of Michigan to study medicine. She graduated as a member of the Medical Science Class of 1900. In a 1903 article from the Traverse City Evening Record, we get the first glimpse of her ambition and dedication to the practice of medicine as a woman in a man’s world. 

“Dr. Chase entirely disapproves the old idea, which once was quite prevalent, that a professional woman could not be a womanly woman. She is a physician of no mean ability and has considerable skill with the needle. She is thoroughly accomplished in household science. She is very fond of outdoor exercise, being an especially fine horsewoman. Still, they are outside interests to her, after all, as her heart is in her profession, and it is this that receives first and best thought.” 

Women enrolled in the University of Michigan medical program faced significant challenges. In response to a 1924 survey of alumni, Sara spoke of her time as a medical student, “It was impressed upon the women of our department that the U. of M. was a men’s school and often we had the feeling that we were trying to rob men of a livelihood. The girls had to study harder and make better records in order to “pass.” No internships were offered women or found for them…”

Fortunately for Sara, she was able to join her father’s medical practice following graduation. Six years later, she moved back to Traverse City where she took over the medical practice of her cousin, Dr. Oscar Chase. In 1921, Sara moved to Kalamazoo and spent two years working as an assistant physician for the Kalamazoo State Hospital. She then accepted a position as the “Great Medical Examiner of the Ladies of the Maccabees” and relocated to Port Huron. Extremely active, Sara assisted in medical clinics for children, fought for child labor laws, and participated in the Lady of the Maccabees, Ladies Library Society, Daughters of the American Revolution and the Theosophical Society (having to do with meditation and inner reflection.) 

It wasn’t until 1926, at the age of 60, that Dr. Sara married Harlow Willson - her first marriage and his second. A progressive woman, she did not give up her maiden name, instead preferred to use a hyphenated name: Dr. Sara T. Chase-Willson. He ran Willson’s Garden Shop in Port Huron, and she devoted herself to her medical work with the Maccabees. They moved to Boyne City in 1941, where they opened another flower and garden shop. Dr. Sara did not entirely give up practicing however, it was well-known among the female populace that Dr. Sara would see them should the need arise.

After her husband’s death in 1950, Dr. Sara sold their home and retired to the Maccabee Home in Alma, where she died in 1953.

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

Saturday, March 15 - Sandy & The Bandits, 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 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, 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, 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.

> WINTER MOVIES - Free admission; refreshments available for purchase. No outside food or beverages. Check Facebook for schedule.

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 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

> 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 the 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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