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Monster Pumpkins
Local artist Jerry Douglas painted these “Monster Pumpkins” just in time for Halloween, and he’s selling them if you want to jazz up your front step. We’ve got lots of Halloween events like a downtown costume parade, Trunk or Treat, and more in this edition of the Boyne Citizen, plus some “Strange, mysterious and macabre” stories in Patrick McCleary’s history column.
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Inside this issue...
- Boyne City extends third offer for city manager post
- EMS director pleads for help, gets a new paramedic
- Voters will elect 3 City Commission members on Tuesday
- Citizen accepted as Michigan Press Association member
- Downtown street projects test patience, communication
- Costume parade kicks off Halloween fun
- BCHS Drama presents “Big Moments in Broadway History”
- Gildas' Bakery featured in Michigan Public podcast
- Public hearing set for Walloon Lake dredging proposal
- Airport Board works to regain full license
- Boyne Arts Center Holiday Market opens Saturday
- Arson blamed as blaze destroys Belvedere “Casino”
- Regional Business Outlook planned for Nov. 6
- Patrick McCleary history: IDs from last week's photo
- News briefs, Obituaries & Municipal News
- Thanks to the donors who keep the news coming!
- Music and entertainment listings
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| | Boyne City extends third offer in months for city manager post | | |
By Annie Doyle Grove, annie@boynecitizen.com
After seven months without a permanent city manager, Boyne City commissioners have again extended an offer — this time to Sam Demel, a veteran public administrator from Kansas and Oklahoma with more than 25 years of municipal leadership and economic development experience.
The unanimous vote came after the commission interviewed three finalists at city hall on Tuesday, Oct. 28 — Kip Belcher, a retired Michigan State Police lieutenant; Adam Poll, a former Alpena Chamber of Commerce president and CEO; and Demel, who most recently served as city manager in Purcell, Oklahoma. After the interviews, all five commissioners ranked Demel at the top of their lists.
Demel’s background stood out to commissioners for its breadth and depth. A certified economic development professional with a master’s degree in public administration from Wichita State University, Demel has led full-service municipalities and directed multimillion-dollar capital improvement budgets. He previously served as city administrator and public utilities general manager in Kiowa, Kansas, and earlier worked for the Kansas Corporation Commission overseeing fiscal compliance and environmental projects.
In his cover letter to the city, Demel said he was drawn to Boyne City’s “vibrant waterfront and commitment to sustainability,” and described himself as a “servant leader” with a collaborative management style. “I am eager to support your continued success with my servant-leadership approach and operational expertise,” he wrote, emphasizing his focus on transparency, community engagement, and long-term planning.
Commissioners acknowledged some reservations but agreed Demel brought the most comprehensive municipal experience of the candidates interviewed.
Demel is the third city manager candidate to receive an offer contingent on background checks and salary terms since March, when commissioners voted to terminate longtime manager Michael Cain after 22 years. Since then, the city’s search has included multiple interview rounds. In July, commissioners offered the job to Elle Cole, acting city manager in Saline, who later declined for personal reasons. The position was then offered to interim city manager John Mathews, who has served since June, but negotiations fell apart after a dispute over additional background checks and salary terms.
Commissioners noted that Boyne City has reviewed 42 applications and conducted 19 meetings — 14 public and five closed — in their effort to fill the position.
Demel said that he and his wife have family in Michigan and Wisconsin and are seeking to relocate to a “welcoming, community-driven” area. “The opportunity to serve a scenic, forward-thinking community like Boyne City deeply resonates with me,” he said.
The next step in the process will be a background check and contract negotiations handled by the city attorney, with the final employment agreement expected to come back before the commission for approval.
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Boyne City EMS director pleads for help; Commission approves new paramedic
By Annie Doyle Grove, annie@boynecitizen.com
In an emotional appeal, EMS Director Brenda Willson told the Boyne City Commission at Tuesday’s meeting that her department is “almost unrecoverable” without immediate staffing relief, describing a summer of 70-100-hour work weeks, unfilled shifts and shrinking applicant pools as neighboring agencies raise wages. Willson noted the service is also carrying a multi-year budget deficit that began before she became director in June 2022.
“We survived the season and never missed a 911 run, but we’re at a point where we can’t keep doing this,” Willson said. She noted that two EMTs resigned last week for fully benefited jobs elsewhere and that a key internal paramedic candidate could leave if a full-time slot wasn’t authorized. “If he departs us, we are unrecoverable.” Several EMS employees sat in the audience as Willson asked commissioners to approve one additional full-time paramedic at $26 an hour and short-term pay adjustments recognizing the extra field shifts she’s been covering while also running the department.
Directors from nearby emergency services spoke in support of Willson during the meeting, affirming that Boyne City’s staffing and wage challenges reflect a wider regional problem. Joel Yonkman of Jordan Valley EMS said Northwest Michigan agencies are locked in a “wage war” while state training changes have tightened the pipeline, adding that Jordan Valley may drop to one overnight ambulance due to staffing.
On Zoom, Jesse Silva of Lake Charlevoix EMS said his service moved to a mostly full-time model because the old per-diem, pager-based system is “dying,” and he warned the region relies on daily mutual aid. “If one of us burns out, the system starts to fall apart,” he said.
Commissioners pressed Willson and interim City Manager John Mathews on timing and budget details, pointing out the request hit their packets less than 24 hours before the meeting. Willson said she learned late Friday the item would be on the agenda and came in on her day off to assemble the memo, adding she modeled schedules and costs with neighboring directors and the city clerk to remain within current-year wages. “This is a short-term answer to a long-term problem,” she said.
Funding from partner townships remains a sticking point. Commissioner Marty Moody said that unpaid obligations from surrounding townships top $1 million and that timely repayment would make decisions like this “a pretty easy answer.” Earlier this year Boyne City asked its partner townships for additional payments to help cover the deficit and stabilize staffing. That request was the focus of a July interlocal meeting with Bay, Boyne Valley, Chandler, Evangeline, Melrose, Willson and Eveline townships, where many said the cost-sharing formula is outdated and hard on smaller townships.
Township supervisors have since paused talks, telling the Boyne Citizen after a joint meeting on Oct. 8 that they won’t comment or move forward until a permanent city manager is appointed and the new City Commission is seated after the election.
After debate, commissioners voted to approve one additional full-time paramedic at $26 per hour and authorize temporary compensation adjustments for Willson, with the caveat that the plan remain budget-neutral through the end of the fiscal year. A separate action to revisit the broader EMS budget and staffing model is expected during upcoming budget talks.
Willson said the approval stabilizes coverage heading into winter, but the recruitment picture remains bleak. “Retention is cheaper than constant hiring,” she told commissioners. “Tonight keeps the ambulances rolling while we work on the long-term fix.”
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Correction
Last week’s Boyne Citizen story on the “No Kings Day” protest in Boyne City mistakenly stated that Penny Hardy was the event organizer. Hardy said she had organized two or three similar protests early this year, but recent events including the Oct. 18 protest, were organized by Charlevoix County Women for Democracy.
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Here are candidate profiles as BC voters will elect 3 City Commission members Tuesday
By Jim Baumann, jim@boycitizen.com
The Boyne Citizen asked each of the five Boyne City Commission candidates to send us some biographical information and a statement about why they are running or seeking reelection. Polls at Boyne City Hall will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 4, and all absentee ballots must be returned by 8 p.m. on Election Day to be counted.
Voters may vote for up to three candidates on the ballot, and three of these five candidates will be elected. They will be sworn into office at the City Commission meeting at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 11. The new commission will elect a mayor and mayor pro tem to serve for the coming year.
The City Clerk’s Office will be open for Election Weekend hours ahead of the Tuesday election for the purpose of issuing and receiving absentee voter ballots from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 1 and 2. Absentee ballots may be issued at City Hall offices up to 4p.m. on Monday, Nov. 3. City officials report that 483 absentee ballots had already been turned in by midday Wednesday, Oct. 29.
Here are the candidate responses (with a 400-word limit) in alphabetical order:
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BRIDGET FOLTZ, 1007 Hull St., has been a full-time resident of Boyne City for 28 years. She is a healthcare professional and mother of two Boyne City High School graduates, Anders and Lars. She has volunteered with the Boyne City High School drama department and sat on the board of the Boyne City Foundation for Educational Excellence. She founded Get Healthy Boyne, a local health and wellness movement. She has owned and operated a local dance studio as well as her own private physical therapy practice. She is an avid skier, cyclist, hiker and overall outdoor enthusiast. A University of Michigan graduate (doctorate), Bridget values hard work, critical thinking, active listening, building community connections and fostering healthy productive relationships. Bridget understands the importance of fiscal responsibility while keeping a keen eye on economic conditions at the national, state, and local levels.
Why running - As a proud resident of Boyne City for 28 years, I’m running for City Commissioner because I believe our city deserves a unifying voice that listens, acts, and leads with integrity, clear communication and accountability. This campaign is about putting people first, investing in our neighborhoods, and continuing to make Boyne City a great place to live and visit. I aim to bring fresh leadership and fresh perspective to solve the problems facing Boyne City. Affordable housing shortage, short-term rental concerns, attracting good wage jobs, and preserving Lake Charlevoix views and access, are key challenges which I am ready to tackle as City Commissioner.
> Facebook page.
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JENNIFER BEANO HAMPTON - I am a mother of two who has had the opportunity to raise them in my hometown. I have watched as this has become less of a reality for many young families who want to raise their family in our community. The lack of affordable housing and workforce housing is causing people to look elsewhere, losing access to potential workers and a more stable economy. I've worked downtown for 20 plus years and experienced the need for employees first hand. There is a need to look at many options to tackle this problem and be willing to work together to find real solutions. If elected I would work to bring transparency, better communication, problem solving and critical thinking to the Commission. I would put the needs of Boyne citizens ahead of those only looking to profit from our community we built and maintain. We deserve a local government that works for us.
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REBECCA HOUSER - I am a fourth generation Boyne City citizen. I graduated from Boyne City High School and then went on to attend Grand Valley State University, where I earned a degree in Public and Nonprofit Administration with an emphasis in Budgeting and Finance. I am running for City Commissioner because I want to see positivity and teamwork back in our city’s leadership. The only way that we are going to ensure that our great town stays relevant and evolving with the changing times, while also maintaining our small town culture that makes Boyne City unique, is by working together to achieve what is the best for Boyne City.
I will work hard to do this by actively listening to the citizens of our town, by doing my best to make sure meetings run effectively and efficiently so that more citizens are able to attend full meetings, and by making sure I have done my research and due diligence to ensure that we are moving forward with the best interests of our town and citizens in mind. I will work to be a problem solver to reach solutions, not a problem finder. One of the great things about Boyne City is that our commissioners are nonpartisan and the only thing we need to focus on is what is best for Boyne City and its citizens, and keep our town moving forward while maintaining its small town culture.
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BRIAN KENNEDY - I’m asking for your vote for Boyne City Commissioner on November 4th!
MY KEY ISSUES
1. BOYNE RESIDENTS FIRST:
As the Commission prioritizes budgets, Master Plan items and day to day decisions, I will always put your needs and wishes first. We live here, we should matter most.
2. FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY:
I will protect your tax dollars fiercely. You work hard for the tax dollars you pay, someone needs to hold the spenders of those dollars accountable and continue the success of the existing Commission’s efforts to Lower Taxes.
3. RESPONSIBLE GROWTH:
There is a delicate balance between growing our terrific community, preserving the culture, maintaining our small town feel/look and managing the cost so that we don’t go into debt or raise taxes. That’s the balance I’ll fight for.
SUPPORTING BOYNE’S MASTER PLAN:
The Boyne City Master Plan creates the strategic guardrails within which city management works to make decisions and grow the city. The community provided input on the priority of those strategic items.
Of the many items on that list, my key items to protect and fight for are:
• The Lake: Views of and access to the Lake for Boyne City residents. You deserve more access to the beautiful lake that your dollars protect for so many non-residents.
• City Staff/Commission Relationship: I commit to constantly strengthen a positive and effective working relationship between the Commission and the City Manager/Staff. Being on the same page makes things operate well, saves tax dollars, time and energy. I am confident that I can help to maintain a great working relationship on behalf of the people of Boyne.
• Infrastructure Maintenance: I’m a builder and I repair a lot of buildings that weren’t maintained properly. I understand the value of maintaining the integrity of foundational elements. Managing the budget and schedule for this maintenance is something that I will prioritize aggressively.
• There are many other issues to defend, but I’m only allowed 400 words for this statement and I’m at my limit!
> Facebook page.
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TIM NEMECEK - I am seeking re-election to the Boyne City Commission because I care deeply about this community and believe in the importance of continuing the progress we’ve made together. Over the past four years, Boyne City has strengthened its financial position, achieved the lowest operating millage rate since 1997, advanced multiple Infrastructure projects lowering housing development costs, and advanced housing development proposals to address the growing need for attainable housing.
As Mayor Pro Tem from 2021 to 2023 and now as Mayor, I’ve remained dedicated to open communication, government transparency, and fiscal responsibility. I worked to make all city board and commission meetings accessible through live broadcasts, ensuring residents can stay informed and engaged. I take pride in being approachable and responsive to all residents, staff, business owners, contractors, and state leaders; ensuring Boyne City receives the attention and resources it deserves.
Beyond being Mayor, I serve on several boards and commissions that strengthen our region, including the Michigan Association of Mayors Board of Directors (Vice President), Charlevoix County Veterans Affairs Committee (Chair), Charlevoix County Brownfield Redevelopment Authority, and the County’s Materials Management Planning Committee. Locally, I also serve on the Boyne City Planning Commission and the Boyne Area Veterans Memorial Committee.
As a local entrepreneur and business owner in downtown Boyne City, I understand firsthand the challenges and opportunities facing our local economy. My experience in business management helps guide my approach to fiscal discipline, planning, and economic development.
Looking ahead, I’m committed to seeing through key community priorities: Boyne City Marina improvements, outdated Infrastructure projects, Theater revitalization, and the continued expansion of Attainable Housing. I’ll continue focusing on reducing debt, increasing revenue, and supporting sustainable growth to ensure Boyne City remains vibrant and affordable for generations to come.
Outside of public service, I enjoy everything outdoors related: skiing, mountain biking, and hiking. I regularly enjoy Avalanche Mountain, the Boyne River Nature Area, and our beautiful local parks. Boyne City’s natural beauty and sense of community are what make this place special, and it’s an honor to serve the people who make it so.
While state and national politics may feel increasingly polarized, I believe Boyne City can continue to be a place of unity, collaboration, and shared progress. I humbly ask for your vote to continue bringing the results I’ve strongly advocated for and to continue serving with integrity, accountability, and dedication to the ongoing success of Boyne City!
> Facebook page.
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Boyne Citizen accepted as Michigan Press Association member
The Boyne Citizen is proud to announce that we have been accepted as a member of the Michigan Press Association. Publishing for a full year was a requirement for membership. Their welcome letter said, ""We are happy to welcome the Boyne Citizen into the Michigan Press Association. Being part of a press association affirms your commitment to ethical reporting and keeps you aligned with the highest standards of the profession. Great journalism stands together and that is true now more than ever. At MPA our strength is in our members."
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Water Street paving was finished on Saturday and reopened by Sunday morning.
Is there ever a right time? Downtown street projects test patience, communication
By Annie Doyle Grove, annie@boynecitizen.com
Road construction in downtown Boyne City has stirred a mix of frustration and understanding from residents and business owners as city officials say they’re doing their best to balance infrastructure needs with community impact — and to communicate changing project timelines in real time.
Crews spent the past week milling and repaving sections of Water and Front streets, a long-planned project that temporarily closed key downtown thoroughfares. While the city had shared updates through public meetings, Facebook posts and email alerts, some local business owners said they were caught off guard by the start of construction.
“As a business owner, I was shocked that I was not notified until after the fact,” wrote downtown Inspired Living shop owner Leslie Neilson on Facebook, noting the challenge of maintaining customer traffic while the road was closed. “Construction of any kind sucks but usually the results are worth the pain,” she said.
Interim City Manager John Mathews acknowledged that some frustration was inevitable but emphasized that city staff had made multiple attempts to notify the public. “We post schedules through meetings, the city website and live updates on Facebook,” Mathews said. “In all fairness once we talked through it, most business owners understood. People just want to be heard.”
Mathews said Main Street Program Director Ingrid Day also sent an email earlier this month to roughly 130 businesses in the downtown district alerting them to the upcoming work. “We had about a 47 percent open rate on that message,” Mathews said. “Some of the loudest critics probably didn’t open their email.”
In his written report to the City Commission this week, Mathews said the city is reviewing how it communicates future street closures and may add mailed notices to business owners in addition to online updates and newsletters.
He also noted that Day is verifying the city’s business contact list to ensure all addresses remain current.
Day confirmed that the Main Street office, which generally does not manage city construction projects, sent the extra notice as a courtesy. “Normally this isn’t something we’d handle, but with so much going on downtown I thought it warranted a heads-up,” Day said. “I did what I could to make sure the information got out.”
Weather has also dictated much of the schedule, Mathews added. “The contractor sometimes has only 24 hours to confirm when they can work, depending on the forecast,” he said. “That’s why people may see crews out over the weekend — we’re just trying to get it done as quickly and with as little disruption as possible.”
Mathews said he’s heard from residents directly as well. “I’ve been yelled at, and that’s part of the job,” he said. “Could we have done some things better? I'm sure we could have. But we don’t have the manpower to knock on every downtown door. We try to use every communication tool we have.”
Mayor Tim Nemecek, who also owns a business on Water Street, said the timing was intentional and part of a broader change in how the city handles road maintenance. “There’s two different major projects, and the Water and Front work has been in discussions for three years,” he said. “We started changing our approach by using Paser ratings to decide when to repair roads sooner and more efficiently. There’s about 40 percent savings having those roads addressed earlier — they shave the top layer off, leave the base, and then pave over that base instead of tearing up the entire street.”
Nemecek said that approach saves taxpayer money and avoids more severe closures later. “It’s not ideal, but it’s the best time of year for this kind of work,” he said. “You can’t do it in winter, and summer is full of events and tourism traffic. For restaurants and retailers, October is the slowest season. If there’s ever a time to tear up the street this is it.”
While some social-media posts called for better signage and coordination, others praised the crews’ speed and effort. “I live 50 feet from Water Street and they’re busting butt to get it done fast,” one resident wrote on Facebook. Another urged patience: “Can’t do it in the winter — better now than at a holiday time.”
Water Street reopened on Sunday. Mathews said Front Street is also expected to reopen with fresh pavement by the end of the week with striping to follow. “Our team understands how disruptive this has been,” he said. “We’re trying to make sure everyone knows what’s happening — and that the short-term pain will lead to long-term improvement.”
He also urged residents to sign up for real-time street-project alerts at the city’s eNotify page. He said people can also visit City Hall or call his office at (231) 582-0377 for updates.
| Front Street paving and striping was finished on Wednesday, Oct. 29. | Boyne City CWSRF Project Schedule | See this Project Schedule in a larger PDF format. Note that all dates are estimated and subject to change. | | |
There was a long line for Trunk or Treat in this Alex Childress photo from 2023.
Costume parade kicks off Halloween fun
BOYNE CITY COSTUME PARADE - Area residents are invited to start Halloween night with downtown Boyne City's annual costume parade. Everyone is welcome to join the fun - young, old and four-legged. Bring a chair if you prefer to sit and watch all the great costumes. Line-up begins in front of Lake Street Market, 306 S. Lake St., at 4:30 p.m., and the parade begins at 4:45. It will wind around downtown from Lake Street to Water Street to Park Street, ending at the Boyne District Library.
OFFICIAL HOURS - The City of Boyne City official trick or treating hours are 5 to 8 p.m.
LIBRARY BOOKMOBILE will be open for trick-or-treating from 5 p.m. until they run out of treats.
TRUNK OR TREAT - Just one block south of the library, the First Presbyterian Church will feature their famous Trunk or Treat on Halloween Night. Organizer Paula Larson encourages people to make Trunk or Treat their first stop, because they usually run out of candy by 6 or 6:30 p.m. “Everyone is welcome to join our trunk line to make Halloween a safe environment for the ghosts, princesses, and Spider-Men in our community” she said. “Folks who would like to participate, please have your vehicles parked along Pine Street opposite the Presbyterian Church with their trunks open by 5 p.m. Plan on over 800 pieces of individually wrapped candy to pass out to the kids.”
BOYNE CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT will be giving out treats at Trunk or Treat at the Presbyterian Church.
FIRE AND EMS DEPARTMENTS will be handing out treats from 5 to 8 p.m. at Boyne City Hall.
BOYNE CITY HARDWARE is hosting a haunted house, complete with treats for the kids, from 5-7 p.m. Friday.
SPOOKY HIKE - The Walloon Lake Association and Conservancy will host a family-friendly Spooky Hike at the Postle Farm Preserve from 5-7 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 31. There will be trick-or-treating along the trail, apple cider and more. Guests are encouraged to wear their costumes. All ages are welcome, but parents must be present with their children.
BOYNE AREA SENIOR CENTER is hosting a Halloween Celebration and luncheon at 11:30 a.m. Friday, Oct. 31, at 411 E. Division St., Boyne City. On the menu: Spooky Baked Spaghetti with Eyeball Meatballs, Vampire Garlic Bread, Graveyard Zucchini, Swamp Monster Soup du Jour, Fruit, and a Special Halloween Dessert. Details on their activity calendar.
LITZENBURGER PLACE invites everyone for trick or treating from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday at 829 S. Park St. All ages are welcome to enjoy carnival games with prizes, food and drinks, and a haunted room - "or just come in to rest your feet and relax."
THE BROOK OF BOYNE CITY invites all ages to join them for trick or treating from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Friday at 701 Vogel Street.
MUSKRAT DISTILLING is having a Karaoke Costume Contest with prizes, DJ T-Bone, and specialty cocktails from 9 p.m. to midnight Friday. Sip on their Tipsy Ghost or Monster Mash while you show off your costume and karaoke skills. 121 Water St., Boyne City.
HALLOWEEN CLASSICAL MUSIC - It's Halloween week, and Classical IPR (Interlochen Public Radio) has all kinds of music for the occasion. Tune in all day on Friday for our special Halloween playlist, including some of the scariest classical music you'll ever hear on the air. Listen online.
SPOOKY MIDDLE SCHOOL - Boyne City Middle School will host spooky Halloween parties from 5:30-7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 1, for fifth and sixth graders, and from 7:30-9 p.m. for seventh and eighth graders. Dress in your Halloween costume and dance the night away with your friends. Start by walking the always popular haunted hallway that leads into the spooky cafeteria. Eat pizza, drink cider and enjoy a variety of homemade treats. This year they are adding carnival games to go with the glow light DJ dance party. There will be prizes for the best costumes. Suggested donation is $5. Parents are asked to check their emails for Sign-up Genius. Details. Have questions? Email bcmsramblers@gmail.com.
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| | Boyne Meets Broadway to feature “Big Moments in Broadway History” Nov. 13-15 | | |
Boyne Meets Broadway is Nov. 13, 14 and 15 at 7 p.m. at Boyne City High School in the Performing Arts Center. This year’s program will feature “Big Moments in Broadway History” with students performing numbers from many popular Broadway musicals.
General seating tickets are now on sale for $10. Cast members are selling tickets and will earn money towards their April 2026 Drama New York City trip for each one they sell. You may also purchase tickets in the BCHS Office weekdays from 8 .am. - 4 p.m. Tickets will be available at the door on performance nights starting at 6 p.m, until sold out. Checks can be made to BCPS.
BCHS Hospitality will be offering a dinner on Friday night only. This will start at 5:30 and include the BCHS Jazz Band playing. Dinner tickets will be available soon through Boyne Hospitality Class.
The BCHS Jazz Band will also perform again before the Saturday, Nov. 15, show starting at 6 pm. No ticket is needed to listen to the jazz band that night.
Boyne Meets Broadway is a variety show style performance. Students will be performing numbers from Phantom Of The Opera, Rent, Cats, Hamilton, Addams Family, Sunset Boulevard, Fiddler On The Roof, Evita, The Lion King, Oliver, A Chorus Line and many more.
About 50 BCHS students are involved in Boyne Meets Broadway - 45 on stage and 7 stage crew. Directors are Michael and Jen Houser, Erin and Stephen Zucker, and Charles Garson.
Boyne Meets Broadway started in 1993 as a true dinner theater collaboration between the school Drama Department and Stafford's One Water Street restaurant in downtown Boyne City. Students performed around the dining room tables as patrons enjoyed a multi-course meal. BMB was also performed at Boyne Mountain for a couple of years and in 2005 then found its current home in the high school Performing Arts Center.
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Gildas Berrou and his son Killian stand behind two crepe griddles. They've both committed to the life of a baker, which includes early morning hours and busy holiday seasons. Photo by Ronia Cabansag / Michigan Public.
Gildas' Bakery featured in Michigan Public podcast
Reprinted from The Dish podcast from Michigan Public
In Boyne City, a little lakeside town in Northern Michigan, there’s a bakery offering crepes of a quality that you'd expect to find in France. It’s owned by a classically trained French baker, Gildas Berrou. The shop offers a variety of savory and sweet fresh-baked goods, including traditional crepes made to order.
Berrou has made small adjustments to his offerings over the years and been open to suggestions. Well, most suggestions.
“One time I think we gave in and we put American cheese on a crepe for a customer,” he said. “Don't ask me how we had it in the bakery to begin with.”
The bakery serves staples including croissants, breads, crepes, soups, quiches, and more. The previous owner of the space ran a donut shop, and when Berrou took over, longtime customers expected donuts. But Berrou insisted on executing his own vision.
“And I said, ‘No, I'm going to keep it the way I'm doing it,’” he said. “And people were very, very open minded to try it.”
> Full story.
> 10 DAYS OFF - Gildas asked us to let everyone know that this Saturday, Nov. 1, will be the bakery’s last day open before taking a 10-day vacation starting Nov. 2.
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Public hearing set Nov. 4 for Walloon Lake dredging proposal
By Annie Doyle Grove, annie@boynecitizen.com
The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) will hold an online public hearing at 6 p.m. Monday, Nov. 4 on a controversial dredging project near Eagle Island Road that has drawn strong opposition from Walloon Lake residents and conservation groups.
The hearing concerns a permit request from property owner Rob Baidas of Northville who is seeking state authorization to remove about 2,490 cubic yards of material from a 0.31-acre wetland pond at 2594 Eagle Island Road. The plan calls for dredging to a depth of up to 15 feet within the pond and 10 feet at the outlet. Baidas has withdrawn a previous request to dredge the connecting channel to Walloon Lake.
Baidas purchased the nearly 40-acre parcel in 2022 for $2.79 million. The property includes roughly 700 feet of lake frontage in Bay Township. State regulators previously issued him a violation notice in 2024 after finding unauthorized filling and vegetation removal within wetland areas on the site.
Environmental advocates including the Walloon Lake Association and Conservancy (WLAC) say the dredging would damage sensitive shoreline habitat and threaten water quality. “This project is not in the public interest and sets a harmful precedent for shoreline areas,” WLAC Executive Director Jon Breithaupt wrote in a letter urging residents to attend the hearing. “We encourage community members to speak up and ask EGLE to deny the permit.”
The WLAC and local residents have voiced concerns since the plan surfaced in August, citing risks to aquatic vegetation, wildlife and the natural filtration capacity of the wetlands. EGLE confirmed in September that it received multiple requests for a public hearing after a wave of comments opposing the project.
Residents may register to attend the Nov. 4 online hearing through EGLE’s website at https://bit.ly/WRD110325. Written comments will be accepted until Nov. 14 via EGLE’s MiEnviro online portal or by mail to EGLE Water Resources Division, P.O. Box 30458, Lansing, MI 48909-7958.
In a previous Boyne Citizen interview, Bay Township Supervisor Xavier Gaudard said the township is monitoring the process closely. “We’re really concerned about what this means for Walloon Lake and the precedent it could set,” Gaudard said.
The project area lies near a narrow cove locals call “Lily Pad Bay” on the south end of Walloon Lake between Eagle Island and the mainland. A final permitting decision from EGLE is expected later this fall.
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Airport Board adds new members as city works to regain full license
By Annie Doyle Grove, annie@boynecitizen.com
Boyne City’s Airport Advisory Board has welcomed three new members as the city works to lift its provisional state license and address ongoing debates over rates, maintenance and technology at the municipal airfield.
Al Aown, Josh Aown and Aaron Place were introduced at the board’s Oct. 23 meeting, marking the first major turnover in years. In their applications to the city, Al Aown, a Navy veteran and small business owner, said he wanted to continue supporting local aviation programs. His son, Josh Aown, a tile contractor and youth sports coach, wrote that he hopes to “help expand and highlight this great community asset.” Place, a designer and former Planning Commission and Main Street Design Committee member, noted his interest in contributing to the airport’s future improvements.
In early 2024, the Boyne City Commission approved a 30% increase in hangar rental fees despite a recommendation from the Airport Advisory Board to keep rates unchanged. The city later raised its aviation fuel fee, shifting from a flat rate to a markup of 50 cents per gallon over cost. The changes led to a joint meeting between the City Commission and the Airport Advisory Board in July, where pilots also raised concerns about snow removal policies and deteriorating taxiways.
This fall, the city completed major tree and vegetation clearing near the runway to address obstructions that prompted the airport’s provisional license from the Michigan Department of Transportation Aeronautics Division. A provisional license allows the airport to remain open while MDOT Aeronautics requires specific safety or maintenance issues—such as tree obstructions or lighting deficiencies—to be corrected before full certification is restored. Crews focused on the west-end approach and safety zones, also cutting weeds around lights and signs.
Interim City Manager John Mathews said he believes the city has met MDOT’s standards, though inspectors may still request additional tree trimming during their next visit. A separate FAA inspection will be needed before the airport’s visual approach indicator can be reactivated.
The board also discussed whether to upgrade its fuel sales system, weighing the cost of installing a credit-card reader against improving the current billing process and adding a security camera.
MDOT’s follow-up inspection and an FAA flight check are expected in the coming weeks as Boyne City works to restore full licensing.
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Boyne Arts Center Holiday Market opens Saturday
From Nov. 1 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
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Firefighters battle massive flames at the Belvedere Club “Casino” on Oct. 23.
Arson blamed for blaze that destroyed Charlevoix’s Belvedere “Casino”
A pre-dawn fire leveled the historic Belvedere Club “Casino” on Ferry Avenue in Charlevoix early Thursday, Oct. 23, and a Charlevoix Township man has been arrested in connection with the blaze, officials said.
Michigan State Police troopers spotted the building fully engulfed around 3:15 a.m. Fire crews from the Charlevoix Township Fire Department and Lake Charlevoix EMS responded and extinguished the flames. The building—unoccupied and closed for the season—was declared a total loss, said Fire Chief Dan Thorp. No injuries were reported.
Police on Friday announced the arrest of Michael Jeffrey Ricks, 44, who was charged with third-degree arson and preparation to burn property, both 10-year felonies. He was arraigned in 90th District Court before Magistrate Dean Viles, where a not-guilty plea was entered and bond was set at $500,000 cash or surety.
Investigators are asking residents and businesses to check security footage for a white Hyundai Kona seen between 11 p.m. Oct. 22 and 4 a.m. Oct. 23. Anyone with video is asked to contact Charlevoix Police at (231) 547-3258.
The Belvedere “Casino,” located in the 200 block of Ferry Avenue, was a seasonal gathering hall used for Belvedere Club events and considered a local landmark. The case remains under investigation.
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Regional Business Outlook planned for Nov. 6
The Regional Business Outlook, co-hosted on Thursday, Nov. 6 by the Northern Lakes Economic Alliance and Petoskey Regional Chamber of Commerce, will feature a panel discussion with business leaders representing diverse northern Michigan industries to share their outlook on both opportunities and challenges in the year ahead.
Attendees will also be the first to learn the current regional business climate, labor force, and development news through a presentation of the fall edition of the NLEA’s Economic Pulse Report. Following the panel discussion, stick around for hors d’oeuvres and networking with leaders from across the region. Here are the scheduled speakers:
- Scott Philp – President and CEO, Landscape Logic
- Juliette King-McAvoy – Vice President of Sales and Marketing, King Orchards
- Jake Manthei – President, Aster Brands
- Bill Marshall – Commercial Relationships Manager, Huntington Bank
- Serenity Dankert – Managing Principal, Ironwood Construction Company
- Moderator: Sam Bailey, Strategic Initiatives Manager, Northern Lakes Economic Alliance
> Register here by Nov. 5.
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FOOTBALL PLAYOFFS - The Boyne City Ramblers varsity football squad will travel to Thirlby Field in Traverse City for a first round district playoff game against Traverse City St. Francis at 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 1. This will be the Ramblers’ chance to get revenge for a 20-13 loss earlier this season against the state-ranked Gladiators. Tickets are $7 and must be purchased via GOFAN.CO; cash will not be accepted at the gate.
DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME ends at 2 a.m. this Sunday, Nov. 2, which means you may have to set your clocks back one hour, and you can get an hour of extra sleep. Sunrise at 7:21 a.m. and sunset at 5:26 p.m. will be about one hour earlier on Sunday than the day before. There will be more light in the morning and less light in the evening.
CHRISTMAS WREATHS - The Boyne Valley Garden Club’s annual Holiday Wreath and Garland Sale continues through Nov. 1. This sale is the club’s biggest fundraiser and they need to raise about $8,500 to cover the cost of flowers and soil additives for next summer’s gardens throughout the city. “We hope you will continue to support our efforts to create a ‘Beautiful Boyne’ again in the summer of 2026,” said club president Mary Foucard. Order forms are available from Garden Club members and at the Boyne Area Chamber of Commerce and can be dropped off there. You can also order online. Orders are due Nov. 1. Anyone with questions may email monica@monicaross.com.
TURKEY DRIVE - Good Neighbors Food Pantry is kicking off 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 November lunch menu, and the November activity calendar.
| | Regional News from Bridge Michigan | | City of Boyne City Municipal News | | |
City Hall open for absentee ballots this weekend
The City Clerk’s Office will be open for Election Weekend hours ahead of the Tuesday election for the purpose of issuing and receiving absentee voter ballots from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 1 and 2. Absentee ballots may be issued at City Hall offices up to 4p.m. on Monday, Nov. 3.
CITY LEAF PICK-UP - The City will collect bagged leaves on Mondays and Fridays from now through November 14. After that time, residents are responsible for their own disposal. Set bagged leaves curbside any time after the first day of pickup. City crews will collect bags as time allows. If your bags have been out for a while and haven’t been picked up, call City Hall at 231-582-6597. Leaves must be in biodegradable paper yard waste bags (available at local hardware stores or other suppliers). These bags are not strong enough for sticks, sand, or stones, so please bag leaves only. No plastic bags — leaves in traditional trash bags will not be collected. Brush will not be picked up, but residents can take brush and leaves (bagged or loose) to the North Boyne Compost Site at the end of Robinson Street. Residents, please contact City Hall at 231-582-6597 before using the site. Commercial businesses may use the site with their City-issued permit.
WINTERIZING FIRE HYDRANTS - City Water Department crews will be out over the next two weeks winterizing fire hydrants around town to prepare for colder weather. This routine maintenance helps ensure hydrants stay in good working order and ready for use through the winter. Please use caution when driving near crews. Thank you for your patience as we keep Boyne City’s water system running strong!
MAPLE LAWN CEMETERY - As we prepare for the colder months ahead, please note the following important updates for the Maple Lawn Cemetery:
- Cemetery water service has been shut off for the remainder of the year.
- All real and artificial flowers, decorations, and arrangements will be removed beginning November 1 as part of our annual winterization.
- If you wish to keep any items placed at gravesites, we encourage you to collect them before November 1.
FISH CLEANING STATION will be closing for the season on Friday, October 31.
CITY COMMISSION ELECTION will be held on Tuesday, November 4. Polls are open from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m. All absentee ballots must be returned by 8 PM on Election Day to be counted.
| | 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, Nov. 11. Newly elected commissioners will be sworn in, and they will elect the mayor and mayor pro tem for the coming year. Agenda page.
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Taxidermy and photographic evidence are rarely found, particularly among local history collections. These are remarkable examples of each. The two-headed calf on the left was born in Elmira, Michigan in 1907. The two-faced calf on the right was born in East Jordan in 1909. Despite being such rarities, no mention was found in any Charlevoix County or Otsego County newspaper. My special thanks go out to Joni (Hartlep) Zucchiatti, who contributed these photographs for study and further research. Joni has assisted me on many occasions, and I am greatly indebted to her wealth of knowledge and generosity.
THROUGH THE HISTORIAN'S LENS
Mysterious and macabre Halloween; Success in identifying people in last week’s photo
By Patrick McCleary, Throughthehistorianslens@gmail.com
The Charlevoix County History Preservation Society
As I sat down to put this week’s article together, I thought it the perfect time to continue with the Halloween theme begun in last week’s edition. With November just around the corner, I had also decided that next month’s theme was going to encompass THANKFULNESS for the community support that I receive in the ongoing task of local history preservation. Who knew that these two themes would form a collaboration so close to the 31st. So, I begin with my intended theme, sending out a special thanks to a Boyne City resident who provided me with the imagery to illustrate. Followed by the generous contributed information that allowed for the documentation of one of last week’s photographs.
Strange, mysterious & macabre
The Victorian era was filled with a fascination with death and the macabre in all forms. Gothic literature, spiritualism, and a profound desire to understand mortality and to preserve things no longer living. From post-mortem photography and black attire to elaborate funerals and mourning practices, all became rituals of remembrance. Collections of botanical materials, shells, butterflies and bugs, taxidermy birds and animals, and wreaths made of human hair. All were a means of keeping the dead intertwined with the living through objects and imagery.
What could be stranger or more mysterious than two-headed creatures? Although infrequently seen, “freaks of nature” as they were often referred to, held a special fascination with our early ancestors. For some, a two-headed calf born among an owner’s stock was considered a curse. Some felt that this occurrence foreshadowed catastrophe. The rarity of these creatures lies in two factors: one, that they should be born at all; and two, that they would live long enough to be stuffed. These only serve to increase the mystery of their existence.
Polycephaly (the scientific term) is a rare condition that results from an embryo not splitting entirely. Typically, such embryos do not survive long enough to make it through a live birth, and if they do, they usually only live a few days because their organs are not formed correctly. Not all two-headed calves are two-headed in the same way. Some have two distinct heads; others share a single neck. These latter offspring are referred to as being “two-faced” rather than “two-headed.”
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Our readers write…
I always look forward to and read with interest the commentary that I receive from our Citizen readers. Your suggestions for future article topics are much appreciated. Your insights are invaluable and not only taken at face value, but also as “clues” to where additional information may be located on a given topic. Above all though, your many kind words of encouragement mean a great deal. They are certainly the motivators for bringing new and varied subject matter to our Citizen readership.
Such is the case with a Halloween photograph appearing in my column last week. As I noted at that time, only one person in the photo was known by me - Art Rouse. On the day of publication, I heard from Kathy Fruge, who recognized the photograph as a similar one found in her own family collection. Her maternal grandparents, Harry and Loeta (Hartnell) Dunsmore, were among the partygoers. Kathy and her uncle were then able to name all but three of the people in the picture.
Shortly after hearing from Kathy, I received an e-mail from Nancy Kujawski, who also recognized Art Rouse’s wife, Eliene (Lyon) Rouse. So, what happens when images such as this become identified? Well, then I go to work documenting those pictured, so that future generations are not left with “an interesting picture with nothing known about it.” As many of you have heard me say in the past, you can’t preserve and document a collection if it is boxed and sitting in a storage closet. And I couldn’t preserve and document local history without the assistance of family, friends, local citizens and you, our Citizen readers.
| | Last week’s article photograph was presented with only one identified individual. This week, I present to you an almost completely identified image. The information below corresponds to the numbers seen next to each individual. It can now be determined that this Halloween get-together took place c1950 and may have taken place in the basement rec-room of either Don and Ruth Sheets or Art and Eileen Rouse. Perhaps some of those reading this week can assist in identifying either the location or the last three unknown people. | |
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Loeta (Hartnell) Dunsmore (1910-1979). Wife of Harry Dunsmore. She assisted in the operation of Dunsmore’s Standard Service Station.
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Eliene A. (Lyon) Rouse (1918-1999). Was crowned National Cherry Queen in 1937. She married Arthur K. Rouse the following year.
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Vera (Lorch) Tokoly (1903-1986). Wife of Sam Tokoly and the great granddaughter of Boyne City’s first family- John and Harriet (Russell) Miller. Vera owned and operated a grocery and antique store in North Boyne.
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Sam A. Tokoly (1893-1962). A contractor and civil engineer. Married to Vera (Lorch) Tokoly.
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Donald E. Sheets (1912-1998). Managed the Statler Hotel in Detroit. Came to Boyne City in 1941 where he and wife Ruth owned and operated the Dilworth Hotel. After selling the Dilworth in 1965, they went on to manage two more hotels - one in Charlevoix and one in Cadillac.
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Arthur K. Rouse (1910-1991). President of the Rouse Insurance Agency of Petoskey; owner of Rouse Food Shop and Rouse Oil Company. Later in life, he became involved in local real estate.
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Harry Dunsmore (1904-1973). Married to Loeta (Hartnell) Dunsmore. He owned and operated Dunsmore’s Standard Service Station, located in downtown Boyne City, between 1943 to 1967. Harry also worked for the Bureau of Indian Affairs and was a dispatcher for the Boyne City Police Department.
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Mr. Paul. Additional information was not located, but he and his wife are said to have co-owned the Rainbow Gardens Bar, once located outside of Boyne City on M-75 South.
- Unidentified.
- Unidentified.
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E. Dudleigh Ruegsegger (1916-1962). Son of late Probate Judge, Ervan A. Ruegsegger. He married Loveda Myers, owned and operated the Ruegsegger Insurance Agency in downtown Boyne City.
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Loveda (Myers) Ruegsegger (1916-1962). Wife of E. Dudleigh Ruegsegger. She assisted her husband in his Boyne City insurance agency.
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Mrs. Paul. Additional information was not located, but she and her husband are said to have co-owned the Rainbow Gardens Bar, once located outside of Boyne City on M-75 South.
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Mabel M. (Howard) Jennings (1899-1953). Born in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, she was the wife of Harry L. Jennings.
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Garth M. Bryan (1917-2002). Owned Bryan Vending and Bryan Music, which included vending machines, jukeboxes and coin-operated laundry facilities. He was also integral to bringing Little League to Boyne City.
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Jewel (Benser) Bryan (1917-1995). Married Garth Bryan in 1939 and assisted her husband in the vending machine and laundry business as a secretary.
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N. Aldwyn Barden (1914-2010). The son of Frank O. Barden, founder of Barden Lumber Company. He began working in the family business in 1936 and remained until 1979.
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Harry L. Jennings (1887-1972). Chief of Police in Toledo, Ohio from 1925-1930. He came to Boyne City in 1948 and was manager of the Boyne City Chamber of Commerce. In 1953, he was appointed U.S. Marshal and served in this capacity until 1962. He resided in the historic Beardsley home on Pearl Street.
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Regina F. “Jean” (Saller) Barden (1913-2000). Married N. Aldwyn Barden in 1937 and was involved in the business of Barden Lumber Company.
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Ruth M. (Marshall) Sheets (1917-2016). A consummate hostess and efficient manager, Ruth managed a number of hotels, including the Dilworth Hotel in Boyne City, along with her husband, Donald E. Sheets.
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Leslie F. (Mayhew) Bowe (1922-2013). A Boyne City resident and local schoolteacher, later retired from Boyne City Elementary School. Leslie was also very active in the Boyne City Garden Club. She was the widow of Arnold M. Boe, who was killed in action in 1944 in a plane crash near Fauling, China along with 11 other crew members. He was serving in that location as a radar observer with the Army Air Corps.
- Unidentified.
Note: It was first thought that one of the unknown folks was Margaret Smith, the wife of Gregg Smith, Sr., owner and publisher of the original Boyne Citizen. However, contact with Gregg Smith, Jr. has confirmed that the woman in question is not his mother. However, it was Gregg who shared the suggestions as to where this photograph may have been taken.
| | > 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 jim@boynecitizen.com.
AMERICAN LEGION Post 228 - 302 S Lake St., Boyne City, (231) 459-4188.
Bingo every Tuesday, open to the public, refreshments provided. Doors open at 3 p.m., play starts at 5, ending at 8.
BC LANES/THE VENUE BAR & GRILL - 1199 M-75 S, Boyne City, (231) 582-6353.
> Open bowling: 3-9 p.m. Tuesdays, 3-10 p.m. Fridays, 12-10 p.m. Saturdays, 12-9 p.m. Sundays.
LIVE MUSIC Saturdays:
Saturday, Nov. 8 - Ought 4 Nought, 8-11 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 15 - RPM for Ladies Night, 8-11 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 22 - Scarkazm, 8-11 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 29 - Sandy & The Bandits, 7-10 p.m.
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.
BOYNE CITY TAP ROOM - 220 S. Lake St., Boyne City, (231) 459-4487.
Mondays, - Trivia
Thursdays - Adam and the Cabana Boys
Fridays - Patrick Ryan and Josh Raber
Saturdays and Sundays - college and NFL football. Food and beverage specials during games.
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. 1 - Chris Calleja
Saturday, Nov. 8 - Derek Boik
Saturday, Nov. 15 - Michelle Chenard
Saturday, Nov. 22 – Chase & Allie
Saturday, Nov. 29 – Chris Calleja
CAFE SANTE - 1 Water St., Boyne City, (231) 582-8800.
> LIVE MUSIC
Friday, Oct. 31 - The Fridays, 7-10 p.m.
Mondays - The Shifties, 6-9 p.m.
CROOKED TREE ARTS CENTER - 461 E. Mitchell Street. Petoskey, (231) 347-4337.
> See website for updated art shows, entertainment, and children's activities.
> Peter Madcat Ruth's CARMa Quartet - Saturday, Nov. 22 at 7:30 p.m. Downtown Sound tickets range from $10 to $60 and are available at www.crookedtree.org/downtownsound or by calling (231) 347-4337.
GREAT LAKES CENTER FOR THE ARTS - 800 Bay Harbor Drive, Petoskey, (231) 439 -2600.
- Nov. 1 - Cantus. Exalting the Human Spirit Through Unmatched Vocal Harmony
- Nov. 15-16 - Tinsel & Tunes holiday concert with the Northern Michigan Chorale
- Nov. 21-22 - Great Lakes Dance Academy Presents A Christmas Carol: The Mixtape
- 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
> HALLOWEEN PARTY with a Karaoke Costume Contest with prizes, DJ T-Bone, and specialty cocktails from 9 p.m. to midnight Friday, Oct. 31. Sip on their Tipsy Ghost or Monster Mash while you show off your costume and karaoke skills.
Monday, Nov. 3 - Lit With Literature: One Dark Window By Rachel Gillig, 7-9 p.m.
Monday, Nov. 10 - Bloomin' Sanity Woman's Happy Hour, 5-7 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 22 - Earlier Than the Bird, 7 a.m.
> LIVE MUSIC at 8 p.m. Fridays
Friday, Nov. 7 - Eric Jaqua
Friday, Nov. 14 - Sean Bielby
Friday, Nov. 21 - The Shifties
Friday, Nov. 28 - SAXU4IA
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.
Tuesday, Nov. 4 - Sean Bielby
Tuesday, Nov. 11 - Lou Thumser
Tuesday, Nov. 18 - Evan Archambo
Wednesday, Nov. 19 - Community Open House from 5-8 p.m. with discounted drink features complimentary refreshments, including a Salsa Bar, bite-size appetizers and specialty drink samples.
Tuesday, Nov. 25 - Keith Scott
STIGGS BREWERY & KITCHEN - 112 S. Park St., Boyne City, (231) 497-6100
> Nov. 5 and the first Wednesday of the month - Open Mic Nights hosted by Nelson Olstrom, 6-9 p.m.
> Nov. 8 and the second Saturday of the month - Karaoke with DJ T-Bone Thompson from 8-11 p.m.
WALLOON WATERSHED - 4128 M-75 , Walloon Lake, (231) 535-6048.
Live music 6-9 p.m.:
Wednesdays - Pete Kehoe
Thursdays - Laura Crowe
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