February 6, 2025 | Issue #21 | Past issues

A vending machine for books

Boyne Falls School Superintendent Cindy Pineda reads with Cayde Lewis, who earned his new book from the school's book vending machine. Read our feature story on how a personalized approach is working well for the school leader.

Inside this issue

• City considers North Boyne apartment buildings
• New Main Street Board members are ready to start
• Personalized approach works for BF School chief Pineda
• “Outside” selects Mushroom Fest as one of the best
• Board of Health selects Klonowski to lead agency
• Great Lakes Energy to host Business After Hours
• New monthly column looks at ‘Our Night Sky’
• Obituaries
• Patrick McCleary history: Avenue of trees destroyed
• Thanks to the donors who keep the news coming!
• Music and entertainment listings

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Woda Cooper Companies proposal for a 46-unit apartment building on Court Street.

City considers two proposals for apartment buildings in North Boyne

By Jim Baumann, jim@boynecitizen.com

The Boyne City Commission will review two large apartment development proposals for city-owned property at 506 W. Court Street in a work session at 5 p.m. today, Thursday, Feb. 6. The meeting will be available for live viewing on the city’s Zoom and Facebook channels. Details on the proposals are available on the City Commission agenda web page by clicking on the 02/06/25 Work Session Agenda Packet.

The proposals are from Woda Cooper Companies of Columbus, Ohio, for a 46-unit apartment building and from Moxie Development of Grand Rapids for a 101-unit, four-building development. 

City Manager Mike Cain is happy with the proposals. "Initial indications are that the two proposals we received are from high quality developers with lots of experience getting housing developments done and occupied across Michigan. I’m looking forward to meeting with them in person on Thursday and learning more about them, what they are proposing and why they think they would be a fit for Boyne City."

The proposals came after the city issued a request for qualifications and proposals in an effort to develop city-owned properties  with “a project that meets the housing needs of the community, especially the needs of the people who work in the city.” 

Woda Cooper’s proposal is for a 46-unit general occupancy development that will consist of a combination of one and two-bedroom units located on all levels of a three-story elevator building. Each floor will be accessible via elevator and stairs The unit mix will be 25 one-bedroom and 21 two-bedroom units. Preliminary square footage estimates are that one-bedroom units will average 650 square feet per unit and the two-bedroom units will average 850 square feet per unit. 

Community amenities will include a community room with kitchenette, restrooms, fitness room, on-site management, on-site services, security cameras, bike racks, playground, and a picnic area with grill. Woda Cooper “acknowledges the city’s desire for a portion of the property to be developed into a public recreational area and will work with the city to accomplish their vision.”

Woda Cooper anticipates submitting an application to the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) for Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC) for this project. “The units will be affordable to individuals with an income of 30% to 80% of the area median income,” the proposal states. Construction is anticipated to start in April of 2026, with completion in May of 2027.

The developer’s proposal states: “Since Woda Cooper will be competing against other developers throughout the state for the valued housing tax credits, it is essential that Woda Cooper maximize their application competitive scoring. To receive the highest score possible Woda Cooper respectfully requests the following from the city: a Payment of Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) for 45 years to match the affordability pledge of Woda Cooper, and a property acquisition price of less than $50,000.”

Moxie’s proposal (pictured below) is for three buildings of 9,493 sq. ft. and one building of 3,738 sq. ft. with 172 parking spaces. They also propose starting construction in April of 2026. The project would have 46 two-bedroom/two bath units and 55 one-bedroom/one bath units. They project that 22% of units will be leased at 60% AMI rates (Area Median Income) and 78% of units will be leased at 80% AMI rates. The proposal calls for the city selling the property for $1, plus property tax abatements and reduced or eliminated water/sewer tap fees - all concessions requested in exchange for providing affordable housing. 

CORRECTIONS

In last week’s Boyne Citizen, we mistakenly reported that the Boyne City Public Schools enrollment shortfall equaled a $194,904 decrease in revenue. The correct figure is the 13 student decrease at $9,608 per student, which equals a $124,904 revenue decrease. The full board will review the amended budget at their meeting at 6 p.m. Monday, Feb. 10.

* * *

Also last week, in a caption with a picture of new owners of Ralph Gillett’s CPA firm, we misidentified April Bellant’s job title. She is actually a staff accountant for the new owners, McLane Blatchford CPA Firm.

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Chris Christensen

Samanth Geiersbach

New Main Street Board members are ready to start

By Jim Baumann, jim@boynecitizen.com

One new face and one familiar face are ready to start serving their terms as Boyne City Main Street Board members. The new face is Samantha Geiersbach, the assistant manager of the Boyne City office of 4Front Credit Union, who says she wants to become more involved in the community. The more familiar face is Chris Christensen, local realtor and longtime county commissioner who has served on numerous community organizations and boards ranging from Networks Northwest and the Northern Lakes Economic Alliance to the 4th of July Committee and Pop Warner football.

Last week, the Boyne City Commission approved a recommendation from Mayor Nemecek to appoint Christensen and Geiersbach to the Main Street Board for four-year terms ending Jan. 31, 2029.

In his application for the position, Christensen said, “I have not served on a local city committee in my 20+ years working downtown. I may have some insight to offer.” 

Asked about the most significant strengths of downtown Boyne City, he said, “Boyne has created a destination community that drives people to visit and eventually want to live in this community, even if it is part-time.” 

Asked about downtown’s challenges, he said, “After 20 years of growth and sustainability, the shift to new concepts seems imminent. It has to find a balance between locals and visitors that maintains the success it has built over the years. 

He said he has “a perspective that seeks to find a balance between the tourism, the second home owner and the locals who live here year-round. “ 

Geiersbach has lived in Boyne City since 2018. She and her husband Nathan have twin sons, William and Timothy, and they chose our community because of its strong school system. Samantha serves on the board of the Chain of Lakes Relay for Life for Antrim, Charlevoix and Emmet Counties, and helps organize events and fundraisers for that nonprofit organization.

Geiersbach said the Main Street organization is doing a great job of organizing events like Stroll the Streets and Boyne Thunder, but she’d like to see more effort to provide information and resources to help existing businesses.

She said downtown’s most significant strength is its uniqueness and diversity - “not only shopping but restaurants and services all in one area.”

She sees “space and growth” as downtown’s challenges. “I know that there are several businesses that want to start or expand downtown, and sometimes the spaces are not available or are not what the business owners want, so they have to look for a different location. I hope to one day see all the empty business locations full of successful businesses that are able to thrive year-round.”

Four other applicants not chosen for the board position were Debbie Derenzy; Lori Pickette; Brennen Wright, owner of For Fun’s Sake toy store; and James Ploe, owner of Sunnyside restaurant. 

ANOTHER BOARD OPENING - The four previous applicants as well as new applicants may be considered for one more Main Street Board opening, due to the resignation of Adam Graef, who closed his SPUDSboyne store at 116 S. Lake St. in November. There is one year remaining on Graef’s board term, although a new appointee could be reappointed after that term ends. Main Street Executive Director Ingrid Day said the application deadline is Feb. 20th, and interested persons should fill out this application form. The Main Street website states that “Your commitment will involve becoming familiar with our purposes and activities, monthly board meetings and the opportunity to serve on a board committee.”

On cafeteria supervision, Superintendent Cindy Pineda chats with Garrett Matelski.

Continuity and personalized approach work well for Boyne Falls Superintendent Cindy Pineda 

By Jamie Baumann, jamie@boynecitizen.com

In a job where most people last three to five years, Cindy Pineda is now in her 11th year as Boyne Falls School superintendent. That continuity, as well as the fact that she knows the names of every child in her district, has served her and the community well.  

"Continuity is a great thing for this district because the board and staff are stable,” Pineda said. “Current Board President Bill Cousineau was the board president when I was hired. The staff loves this district. We really have a small school, family atmosphere. The staff is invested in the kids and we treat the kids as our own. I have a lot of trust in this stable, veteran crew." 

Their newest staff member is Principal Amanda Loper, who was hired two years ago, when the superintendent/principal position was split. Loper and her husband Jeromy both graduated from Boyne Falls and have family there. Most of the staff has been together for more than a decade, and they know the community and students well. Most of the rest of the staff has been there for over a decade.

"We are very individually student-centered. I'm a big fan of the way we address kids' needs. We take care of kids physically, emotionally and academically," Pineda said. 

Boyne Falls boasts a full-time nurse, a school counselor, and a mental health professional to meet students' physical and mental health needs. They have “farm to table” breakfast and lunch programs where the food is sourced from local farms or grown in their own hoop house by the students. Chef Nathan Bates cooks it from scratch daily.

 "Our job is to make sure they each leave here with the skills they need, whether they go directly to work, to a trade school, or to college. Leaving here to sit on the couch isn't an acceptable option," Pineda joked. 

Pineda's daughter, Olivia Pineda-Andersen, is a sophomore in Boyne Falls Public School, even though the family lives in the Boyne City district. "Her needs are being met," Pineda said. 

Currently, the district has a student enrollment of about 220 students. More than three-quarters of them are in the elementary school, where they have small classes and personalized attention.

How does such a small school meet the needs of graduating seniors? The district pays tuition for students who take introductory college or vocational classes in their areas of interest. Since COVID, online learning has expanded the options for students. They may also participate in Char-Em ISD vocational classes. 

School counselor Melissa McGuiness knows the students well. She knows their skills and talents, as well as what they might want to do for a vocation. "I take pride in the way we get our students ready. Melissa works hard at identifying courses kids might need and getting them access," Pineda said. Students who want to participate in activities can do that, as Boyne Falls has cooperative agreements with other districts.

Pineda emphasizes the personalized education students get from Boyne Falls Public School. She has modeled that personalized approach as the superintendent from her first days on the job.

When she started in the summer of 2014, school enrollment had decreased from 300 in 2008 to 153 students. She told the school secretary she wanted to "cold call" families. She picked random continuing student families and invited them to come in over the summer, so she could meet them and their children. She called families that had left the school. 

"I just wanted to ask them what drew them away, if they moved away, and what could we do better?" Pineda said. By the end of the conversation, she would ask if families would consider trying Boyne Falls again. As the leader, she modeled a personalized approach from the moment she arrived. 

The main negative that people pointed out was that there were combined classes like first and second grade in the same room. She went to the board and asked if they were willing to spend the resources to hire more teachers to separate the grade levels. It took a couple of years, but they separated the grades.

Then, she asked, "How many kindergartners are we expecting?" No one knew. "Well, how many kids did you have in preschool last year?" she asked, and was told there was no preschool program. 

So of course she asked the board if they would be willing to offer a preschool. This was before there was state funding for preschools as there is now, so it was a financial risk. Pineda thought they needed it in order to increase enrollment, and the board backed the idea. The preschool now has two classrooms, 25 children, and five staff members - a successful feeder program for the elementary school. 

When Pineda was hired, she had never been a superintendent before. She had taught history and physical education at St. Francis High School in Traverse City for 11 years. Then she served as a principal at St. Mary Cathedral School in Gaylord for six years. Someone suggested she might want to apply for the principal/superintendent position in Boyne Falls. "I'll just go try it," she thought. "I love talking to people. Interviews are fun. It will be a good experience," she thought.

She had spent the vast majority of her career in Catholic schools, so the interview process for the position was different from anything she had experienced. The board was there, and there was an audience. There were questions from the public. She was surprised the following day when she was offered the job. 

In 2019, the community passed a 10-year millage for a "sinking fund" for building maintenance. They have been able to add a new roof, water heaters and water softeners. However, in 2024, they went for a zero mill increase bond to add space to the elementary and a multi-purpose room, among other things, but this was defeated. Pineda will work with the board and the community to determine whether or not to go for another bond, and what their priorities would be if they do. 

Pineda's emphases for the near future are on reading, writing and math curricula, and social emotional learning. 

"It is fun to work in a small district where I know everybody's names. Our biggest goal is to meet the needs of each and every student," Pineda said.

During her annual gift wrapping lesson with preschoolers, Superintendent Cindy Pineda wraps a present with Kai Matelski.



Superintendent Pineda visited Northern Michigan University along with high school students in the spring of 2023.

School’s Community Expo rescheduled for Wednesday

The Boyne Falls Public School Community Expo, which was postponed due to a snowstorm, has been rescheduled for Wednesday, Feb. 12, from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. This will be held during the Parent-Teacher Conferences.

The Community Expo is free and open to the public. It will feature free appetizers prepared by Chef Nathan Bates. In addition, free child care will be provided while parents are in conferences. 

Free haircuts for children and massages for adults will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Other fun activities and prize giveaways are planned. More than 25 area groups will highlight their organizations at the Expo.

If you would like to participate or want more information, contact Tracy Tonsor, school nurse, at (231) 549-2211 ext. 30072 or email ttonsor@boynefalls.org.

“Outside” selects Mushroom Fest as one of the best

The National Morel Mushroom Festival is celebrating its 65th anniversary this year, and Outside magazine has just included the Boyne City event as one of the 13 best upcoming outdoor festivals in the country. Read their story.

This year’s Morel Festival will be held May 15-18 and will feature an arts and craft show, food trucks, carnival, morel hunting seminar, competitive hunt, painting events, a Friday concert featuring Derailed, a Saturday concert featuring The Family Tradition Band and more.  

Here’s what Outside magazine had to say: “Morels are enchanting: they’re tricky to spot in the wild, have a short season, and taste delicious. Those are just a few of the reasons enthusiasts have gathered in northern Michigan each spring since 1960 for the National Morel Mushroom Festival. Now one of the biggest mushroom fests in the country, the event draws some 2,000 attendees with tastings, seminars, an arts-and-crafts show, a farmers’ market, and a spirited morel-foraging competition (victory goes to whoever collects the most in 90 minutes). Proceeds benefit area high school students pursuing careers in science.”

Great Lakes Energy hosts Feb. 12 Business After Hours

The Boyne Area Chamber invites the community to join them for an evening of networking at Great Lakes Energy on Wednesday, Feb. 12, from 5:30-7 p.m. Discover the programs and services provided by Great Lakes Energy, as well as Truestream, their exceptional fiber internet division. As a long-time supporter of the community, Great Lakes Energy is thrilled to co-host this event alongside Boyne City Public Schools and Char-Em ISD.

These three chamber members collaborate to offer an innovative electric lineworker education program at Boyne City High School. This program is one of many career and technical education (CTE) initiatives led by Char-Em ISD.

Food and drinks will be provided with catering by the Boyne City High School culinary arts program, which is another CTE program. Great Lakes Energy is located at 1323 Boyne Avenue in Boyne City. 

Board of Health selects Klonowski to lead agency

The Board of Health appointed Shannon Klonowski as the new Health Officer for the Health Department of Northwest Michigan (HDNW). Klonowski’s appointment follows the departure of Dan Thorell, who became the full-time Health Officer for Benzie-Leelanau District Health Department in November 2024.

Klonowski joined HDNW in August 2022 as the chief financial and administrative officer (CFAO). Prior to that, she spent 15 years with the Tennessee Department of Agriculture and served as the Assistant Commissioner and Chief Financial Officer. Early in her career, Klonowski was a staff auditor with Ernst & Young, LLP in Detroit.    

“The Board has gotten to know Shannon Klonowski as CFAO and there is a strong respect for her in her current role,” said Commissioner Scott Hankins, board chair. “We look forward to working with her as the Health Officer and have confidence that she will lead in a positive and direct manner. We believe she will lead HDNW with the strong leadership style that she has previously demonstrated.”

“I’m thrilled to accept the Health Officer role and look forward to using the skills I have acquired throughout my career to serve the public health needs of Northern Michigan,” says Klonowski. “We have amazing staff at HDNW, and I am both humbled and honored to lead our organization forward.” 

Klonowski is a Charlevoix County native and enjoys spending time outdoors with her family. She serves on the Charlevoix Circle of Arts Board of Directors as treasurer.

> Full press release. 

Employer booths available for April 9 college Job Fair

North Central Michigan College is hosting its annual Job Fair on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, from 2-4 p.m. in the Athletics Center gymnasium.

The event will be a hiring and networking opportunity for the community, local employers and students, and will provide opportunities to recruit candidates for career-track and entry-level positions as well as internships and summer seasonal jobs.

Businesses and organizations can purchase a booth for $50. Space is limited. Registration and details.

Questions? Contact Wendy Kresnak, NCMC career development specialist, at wkresnak@ncmich.edu or 231-439-6365.

Small Business Development Center plans training sessions on “Building a Valuable Company”

Are you ready to take your company to the next level? Whether you plan to lead it for years to come or prepare for a successful exit, this half-day training event is designed specifically for Northern Michigan business owners. 

“Building a Valuable Company” is presented by the Michigan Small Business Development Center. This program will share practical strategies, personalized insights, and expert advice to enhance your business value from day one. 

Here’s what you’ll get: 

• A trove of insights from business professionals to stabilize, grow and enhance the value of your company. 
• A tailored Value Builder Assessment™ of your business that will provide actionable steps to grow your company’s worth. 
• A copy of "Built to Sell" by John Warrilow—a best seller and must-read for savvy business owners like you. 
• Access to a panel of industry experts in legal, financial, staffing, and consulting, ready to answer your unique questions. 
• An opportunity to network with other successful business owners and connect with top-tier business support professionals. 
• A lunch to fuel your learning and networking! 

All training sessions will be held from 9:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m. Choose your convenient location and date today – seating is limited.

• Feb 26 – Cheboygan 
• March 18 – Petoskey 
• April 15 – Elk Rapids 

This event is brought to you by the Michigan Small Business Development Center, Northern Lakes Economic Alliance, 20Fathoms, and Honor Bank. 

> Details and registration. There is a $75 fee.

Citizen looks to expand team of writers and board members 

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 fillable application form.

The Boyne Citizen would like to expand its board of directors. We’d like to add some area residents who are interested in supporting and directing our new local news source. Our website lists our editor and current board members - Hugh Conklin, Michelle Cortright and Jamie Baumann. Check the information below if you’re interested.

> Board member responsibilities.

> Board member fillable application form.

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Boyne Area News Briefs

GENEALOGY EVENT - Patrick McCleary will lead a group discussion from 1-3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 8, in the Boyne District Library Community Room, 201 E. Main St. Participants are asked to bring along their laptops if they have them. No RSVP needed, but you may register here if you would like to borrow one from the library.

BOYNE CITY EAGLES are hosting a Super Bowl tailgate party on Sunday, Feb. 9, from 3-6pm. Those attending are asked to bring a dish to share. There will be games, raffles and swag to win. The Eagles Auxiliary is hosting their third annual Valentine’s Day Dinner at 6 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14. RSVP by Feb. 10 to 231-499-5058, and payment of $25 must be made in advance; bartenders have payment envelopes. The menu includes Caesar salad, smoked pork chop, scalloped potatoes, bacon-wrapped shrimp with leeks, and cannoli tart.

BOYNE AREA SENIOR CENTER is open to the public from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and serves daily lunches from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. For seniors age 60+, the donation is $3, for ages 59 and under, $8, and for children 12 and under, $6. Here is the February lunch menu, and here is the February activity calendar, and details on a Valentine’s Pop-up shop from Upsy Daisy Floral on Feb. 11th.

DIVORCE CARE - If anyone would like to participate in the next 13-week DivorceCare group, it began on Feb. 5, at 6:30 p.m. at the Boyne City Seventh-day Adventist Church, 228 E. Cedar St. Participants are welcome to begin participating at any time during the 13-week group's cycle. For those who want to register, click here for details on this hybrid group (simultaneously in person and online).

NLEA EVENT - Shaggy’s Copper Country Skis co-founder and engineer Jeff Thompson will be one of the featured speakers at a Northern Lake Economic Alliance Catalyst Conversations event on Tuesday, Feb. 11. The event will be hosted at the Cheboygan-Otsego-Presque Isle ESD Building at 6065 Learning Lane, Indian River. Morning refreshments will be provided. Register online here; admission is $25. 

City of Boyne City Municipal News

NEW WEBSITE - The city unveiled its long-awaited new website on Feb. 3 and it is in a new location - www.boynecity.gov, instead of www.cityofboynecity.com. City staff are continuing to make updates to this site to ensure it is as efficient as possible. Please keep this in mind if you're having issues locating information. We encourage you to email info@boynecity.gov with any issues to report or suggested updates. 

MARINA RESERVATIONS - The Boyne City Marina transient slip reservations opened Jan. 31, through the Michigan State Parks Reservation System. Due to construction at the marina not scheduled to be completed prior to June 1, that is the new opening date/reservations start date. www.midnrreservations.com.

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

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

> 5 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 6 - Housing Request for Qualifications work session. Agenda page.

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

• EDC 1 seat. Applications due 3/11.
• LDFA 2 seats. Applications due 3/11.
• Main Street Board 1 seat. Applications due 2/20. (See story above.)
• Airport Board – 3 seats open
• Zoning Board of Appeals – 3 seats open

Obituaries

Walter D. Coyle

October 4, 1936 ~ January 31, 2025 (age 88)

Roy A. Bailiff

September 18, 1952 - February 1, 2025 (age 71)

James Raymond Cloutier

February 23, 1933 — February 1, 2025 (age 91)

Mildred Elaine Follette

May 11, 1933 ~ February 2, 2025 (age 91)

OUR NIGHT SKY - a new monthly column

Orion, hunter in the winter sky

This is the first 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.

Rising in the southeast in the early evening, the constellation Orion is one of the most recognizable and prominent patterns of stars in the night sky, visible from nearly every part of the world. Named after the mighty hunter from Greek mythology, Orion has a striking appearance that has captured the imagination of civilizations throughout history.

Its brightest stars, Betelgeuse and Rigel, form two key points in the constellation, with Betelgeuse marking the hunter’s shoulder and Rigel his foot. Orion’s Belt, a trio of stars aligned in a straight line, is perhaps the most distinctive feature, serving as a navigational guide and a focal point in many cultures’ stargazing traditions.

Though these stars form a recognizable pattern in the sky, they are not physically close to one another in space; they appear grouped together from our vantage point on Earth. The stars of Orion range in distance from about 250 light-years (Bellatrix) to 2,000 light- years (Alnilam). A single light-year is about 6 trillion miles.

In Greek mythology, Orion was a great hunter who boasted of his abilities, drawing the Gods’ ire. Different versions of the myth suggest that he was stung by a scorpion sent by Artemis or killed by the goddess herself in a tragic misunderstanding. The constellation’s placement near the constellation Scorpius, representing the scorpion, reflects this myth, as the two constellations appear on opposite sides of the sky. Beyond Greece, Orion has been associated with figures like the Sumerian hero Gilgamesh, the Egyptian god Osiris, and even the shield of the Norse god Thor.

Scientifically, Orion contains a wealth of celestial wonders, making it a favorite target for astronomers and stargazers. The constellation is home to the Orion Nebula (M42), a massive stellar nursery visible as a fuzzy patch beneath Orion’s Belt. This nebula, approximately 1,350 light-years away, is a hub of star formation and one of the brightest deep-sky objects visible to the naked eye. Other notable features include the Horsehead Nebula and Barnard’s Loop, highlighting this constellation’s stunning diversity of phenomena. These features make Orion not just visually stunning but also

scientifically significant.

Orion’s visibility worldwide and striking features have made it a constant source of inspiration in art, literature, and science. During the winter months in the Northern Hemisphere, the constellation dominates the night sky, symbolizing the season for many stargazers. Meanwhile, in the Southern Hemisphere, Orion appears prominently during summer evenings. Its timeless beauty and the wealth of stories it carries remind us of humanity’s enduring connection to the stars and the myths that help us make sense of the cosmos.

> Readers with comments or questions may contact Rod Cortright via email at cortrigh@msu.edu.

"Our Night Sky" columnist Rod Cortright poses in his backyard observatory.



Not long after William S. Shaw completed his tannery operation in 1902, an avenue of trees was planted on both sides of Front Street - then referred to as Lake Shore Drive.  The above view is looking from north to south. Photo courtesy of the Patrick McCleary collection.

THROUGH THE HISTORIAN'S LENS

Destruction of the avenue of trees on Front Street

By Patrick McCleary, Throughthehistorianslens@gmail.com

The Charlevoix County History Preservation Society

Those new to Boyne City may not recall the days when Front Street ran parallel to the lakeshore, with nothing to obstruct the view.  It wasn’t until the late 1970’s when the street was rerouted to its present location, allowing for more homes to be built between the lakeshore and the road.  

Not long after William S. Shaw completed his tannery operation in 1902, an avenue of trees was planted on both sides of Front Street - then referred to as Lake Shore Drive. They grew to a stately size in just a few short years and were an impressive addition to the Boyne City landscape. After viewing several images from my personal collection, Arborist Gow Litzenberger was able to determine that they were poplar trees, which helped to explain their fast rate of growth. 

Growing up, I was always told that nearly all of these trees were uprooted in a severe storm, “sometime before you were born.” Well, knowing that an event occurred sometime prior to 1965 doesn’t offer a whole lot to go on. However, “never say never.” Below is the article detailing what took place in Boyne City in July 1952 - an event that would change the face of Boyne City’s Front Street for generations to come. 

The Shaw Tannery operation was situated to the right of this image, which shows the avenue of trees looking south to north. Photo courtesy of the Patrick McCleary collection.

_____

Excerpted from: The Boyne Citizen, Thursday, July 24, 1952, Page 1 Column 7

Windstorms Ravage Boyne Area - Lake Drive Blockaded

City crews are still engaged in mopping-up operations following three days of fantastic electrical storms that made this community the focal point of a series of damaging rainstorms that struck northwestern Michigan between 1:30 AM Monday and Wednesday.

Lake Shore Drive (Front Street) now looks like a battle area that has been plowed by howitzers. More than 18 huge trees were broken and uprooted in the first two storms. The highest winds logged were 47 M.P.H. at the conservation forest fire headquarters and a total of 6.16 inches of rainfall was recorded.

At the Division Street residence of Fern Brooks huge poplar trees were uprooted, crushing the roof and completely swamping the Brooks home and a house owned by Monroe VanCamp with rubble and limbs about 1:30 AM Monday. Tuesday’s storm was ushered in with a 47 mile per hour blast that split a huge maple at the Harold Perkett residence on Cedar Street and caused minor damage to a garage.

Traffic along the lake shore was rerouted for eight hours Monday while railroad, tannery, and city crews cleared the storm’s debris. Tuesday, the whole chore had to be repeated again when a dozen more trees toppled over with the blast that started at 8:45 AM. On Cedar Street, traffic was halted for six hours until a big maple could be cleared from the road.

A falling poplar tree narrowly missed the home of Mrs. Emma Poirier on Front Street in Tuesday’s storm and the home of Mrs. Mary Churchill, S. Lake Street, was spared in the early hours of Monday morning when several huge poplar limbs were shorn off nearby trees. The yard was a mass of storm rubble. Gardens, lawns, alleys and streets were littered with leaves and branches.

A third electrical storm struck at 12:30 AM Wednesday and was accompanied by some hail. However, wind damage was negligible during the electrical display which continued through most of the night.

Storm damage estimates to crops and orchards are still being compiled. Officials at the East Jordan cannery estimated a minimum ten per cent loss to cherry orchards. Mrs. Howard Stephens, Horton Bay, said the sweet cherry crop had been damaged severely, several trees have been uprooted and a tenth of the crop was probably ruined. County road engineer, Trim Reynolds, reported that roads had suffered considerable erosion damage and that crews were at work repairing many washouts.

Louis Manglos, restaurant supply salesman, reported following a trip through the area that damage here appeared greater than in other communities. Near Ellsworth a new barn was flattened. At Charlevoix a new home was razed by 40-mile winds and a man was injured by flying glass from a picture window. Lakefront damage here was extensive. A fine willow in Sunset Park was uprooted. By Wednesday the sentiment of most residents was: “This is too much!”

A FINAL REMARK - I am beginning to hear from more and more of you regarding the articles that I have shared. This additional information and your shared memories are vital to the preservation of local history. If you have memories of the above event, please take a moment to reach out using the e-mail address provided. By working together, we can take Boyne City history to a new level.  

> 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.

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, Feb. 8 - Derailed, 8-11 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 15 - Johnny & the Sundogs, 7-10 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 22 - Yankee Station, 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.

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

> LIVE MUSIC - Saturdays 2-6 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 8 - Two Track Mind

Saturday, Feb. 15 - Chris Calleja

Saturday, Feb. 22 - Michelle Chenard

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

> LIVE MUSIC

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

Friday, Feb. 7 - Pete Kehoe 7-10 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 8 - Sean Bielby, 7-10 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 14 - Lavender Lions Duo, 7-10 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 15 - Michelle Chenard, 7-10 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 21 - Chris Calleja, 7-10 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 22 - The Fridays, 7-10 p.m.

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

Saturday, March 1 - Brett Mitchell, 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.

The Gasoline Gypsies perform Saturday, Feb, 22 at 7:30pm. Details & 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, February 21 - Interlochen Arts Academy's Swan Lake, 7 p.m. Tickets.

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

> TRIVIA NIGHT - Wednesdays at 7 p.m.

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

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

> LIVE MUSIC 8 to 11 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 7 - Buddha Sweet

Friday, Feb. 14 - Two Track Mind

Friday, Feb. 21 - The Shifties

Friday, Feb. 28 - Lou Thumser

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

> FREE WINTER MOVIES - Saturday, Feb. 15, showing “The Jungle Book” at 2 p.m. and “A Bug’s Life” at 4 p.m. Free admission; refreshments available for purchase. No outside food or beverages. Let's do something different on a Saturday afternoon - bring a bean bag, sleeping bag, camp chair, whatever is comfortable, and laugh with the kids and reminisce from your childhood. 

> WELLNESS WORKSHOP - March 8. 

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.

Feb. 11 - Dave Cisco acoustic

Feb. 18 - Buddah Sweet

Feb. 25 - Ryan Luce

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.

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

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

The Boyne Citizen

Email: jim@boynecitizen.com

Phone: 231-459-4166

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