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August 6, 2026 | Issue #98 | Past issues

Pirates invade this weekend

Pirates will once again descend on downtown Boyne City this weekend as the annual Boyne City Pirate Fest returns Thursday through Saturday. It will be three days of family-friendly entertainment, live music, theatrical performances and pirate-themed fun. Check out our story below for the schedule and an interview with Pirate Festival Board President Dustin Hejka.

Inside this issue:

• Police Chief Kevin Spate to retire after 27 years
• Pirates bring free family fun to Boyne City this weekend
• Boyne Arts Center awarded “transformational” $114k grant
• Kelly Neer named Early Learners director
• County voters approve fire, EMS and county millages
• Farmers Market, Lake Side Flea Market this weekend
• Stroll the Streets lineup for Friday night
• Boyne City Sidewalk Sales Friday & Saturday
• New BCHS Building Trades house is for sale
• New young professionals group plans first event for Sept. 1
• Ed May dives into BC history, including Mathers Ford
• Hazel James Band to perform for Gazebo concert
• Eta Nu donates $3,800 to 4th of July Festival
• Tire recycling collection planned for Sept. 17-18
• Boyne City gas prices rises a little
• Patrick McCleary history: Badger Woodenware Company
• News briefs, Obituaries & Municipal News
• Thanks to the donors who keep the news coming!
• Music and entertainment listings

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Details and more photos

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Chief Kevin Spate demonstrating how the department would be using drones to assist with police work shortly after the department bought their first drone in 2023.

Boyne City Police Chief Kevin Spate to retire after 27 years with department

By Annie Doyle Grove, annie@boynecitizen.com

After nearly three decades with the Boyne City Police Department, Chief Kevin Spate has announced he will retire at the end of September, saying he is leaving with confidence that the department is well-prepared for its next chapter.

Spate's final day as police chief will be Sept. 30, ending a 27-year career with the department, the past six and a half years as chief.

"It's time," Spate said. "After 27 years working for Boyne City, I'm at the point where financially it makes sense for me and my family to start doing something else."

He said the decision was made easier by the department's current position.

"We have a great staff. We have a great succession plan. We have fantastic community support. We have a commission that's supportive, a city manager that's supportive, and I can't see a better time for my family or for the department to make this move."

Preparing future leaders has been one of Spate's priorities during his tenure as chief.

He credits former Police Chief Jeff Gaither with mentoring him by sending him to leadership training while he served as assistant chief. Spate has continued that philosophy, encouraging supervisors and officers to attend leadership courses as they advance through the ranks.

Assistant Chief Dan Mercer has completed multiple supervisory training programs, including Michigan State University's Staff and Command School for police leaders. 

While the hiring decision will be made by City Manager Sam Demel and must be ratified by the Boyne City Commission, Spate said he hopes Mercer will become the department's next chief.

"My hopes are that Assistant Chief Mercer will take over as chief," he said. "We'll have officers move up from there into the other supervisory positions, and the public won't see a change in the police department. Everything stays the same. You just have a different chief."

Spate said he intentionally waited to retire until the department was on solid footing.

"I became chief, and shortly thereafter COVID happened," he said. "I watched all these administrators who couldn't retire bail during COVID because it was nasty."

He said he never wanted to leave during a period of uncertainty.

"What I do not want to do is leave when things are bad. I don't want to leave when there's turmoil. I don't want to leave when there's uncertainty. Right now we're sitting in a spot where everything is going so well."

After spending more than a decade in police administration, Spate said he isn't interested in another leadership role.

"I don't really want to supervise anybody right now. I just want to do my thing," he said.

Instead, he plans to work part time for the Charlevoix County Sheriff's Office while continuing with the Boyne Mountain Ski Patrol.

"I've got a couple part-time jobs lined up to take my time up, and I'm just going to see what's out there and see how that goes."

Looking back on his career, Spate said his proudest accomplishment isn't tied to a single case or arrest, but to helping build the department into what it is today.

"Being a part of building the department as it is today, between the current staffing and benefits for the guys," he said when asked what he is most proud of.

Spate said he believes those investments have positioned the department for continued success long after his retirement.

"Everything right now is set up for success for everybody involved — for the city, for the community, for me and my family, and for the officers," he said. "It's the right time."

2024 Pirate Queen Jenny Clasman will serve as the reigning royalty for this year’s festival since the 2025 queen has reportedly moved away. (We’re not sure if pirates were involved in that move in some way, but the investigation continues.)

Pirates prepare to take over Boyne City for annual Pirate Fest this weekend

By Annie Doyle Grove, annie@boynecitizen.com 

Pirates will once again descend on downtown Boyne City this weekend as the annual Boyne City Pirate Fest returns Thursday through Saturday with three days of family-friendly entertainment, live music, theatrical performances and pirate-themed fun.

Now in its eighth festival — the event was founded nine years ago but skipped 2020 due to the pandemic — Pirate Fest has continued to grow, according to board president Dustin Hejka.

"We've grown substantially over the past couple of years," Hejka said.

Festivities begin Thursday evening, Aug. 6, with the festival grounds opening at 5 p.m. The annual Pirate Pageants start at 6 p.m., followed by a new event for 2026 — the Pirate Rave from 8:30 to 10:30 p.m., an LED-themed pirate dance party.

Friday's schedule features the festival's signature Pirate Invasion during Stroll the Streets at 7 p.m. The event begins with pirates gathering near two ships docked at the City Marina before marching together into the festival grounds.

"It's a theatrical performance," Hejka said. "The pirates meet up with the mayor of the city and some other wacky characters, and we get the key to the city, because they trust us for some reason. Then there's a little sword fighting, and we decide we like the pirates, so we're going to party."

The invasion has become one of the festival's signature photo opportunities.

Saturday's activities begin with the Pirate Parade at 10 a.m., followed by a free children's activity area from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., live performances throughout the day and the popular Battle of the Boyne River at 3 p.m. Live music will continue into the evening before the festival concludes at 10:30 p.m.

Hejka said organizers have expanded the entertainment lineup this year, with more live music and performers than ever before.

"We have way more going on for live music and live entertainment," he said. "We have some really cool performers coming."

Although food vendors, merchandise and beverages will be available for purchase, Hejka emphasized that admission to the festival is free.

"The main thing we like to get out is that it's family-friendly fun," he said. "Everything we have is totally free to enter. Coming into the tent, there's no cover or anything, and all the kids' activities are completely free. A family could come down and have fun all three days and not spend a dime."

The festival's entertainment tent is fenced, but children are welcome, with identification required only for adults purchasing alcoholic beverages.

A complete schedule of events is available on the Boyne City Pirate Fest website.

www.C3F.org * 231-536-2440

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Boyne Arts Center officials happily displaying their $114,000 check are, from left: Sara Hartley, executive director; Nancy Blandford, board president; Michelle Cortright, vice president; Gaeyle Gerrie-Boss, secretary; and Diane Burke, treasurer.  

Boyne Arts Center awarded “transformational” $114,000 Impact100 grant to expand access

The Boyne Arts Center has been awarded a highly competitive grant of $114,000 from Impact100 Little Traverse Bay, marking a “transformational investment” in the organization's future and its growing role as a creative gathering place for northern Michigan.

Selected through Impact100's rigorous grantmaking process, the award will fund facility improvements, furnishings, and equipment that will allow the Boyne Arts Center to better serve artists, students, families, and visitors of all ages.

The grant will address current equipment and facility challenges by funding classroom furniture, accessibility and safety improvements, and facility upgrades that will allow the arts center to expand programming while creating a more welcoming environment for people of all ages.

The Boyne Arts Center was one of three organizations selected to receive a transformational grant in a Wednesday evening awards dinner, joining Habitat for Humanity and the Women's Resource Center. Impact100 Little Traverse Bay's mission is to act as "a collective force for good; uniting and empowering women to give together, creating transformational impact, locally and globally."

"This investment comes at a pivotal moment for the Boyne Arts Center," said Sara Hartley, executive director. "Our new downtown home has quickly become a place where people gather to create, learn, connect, and experience the arts together. With the support of Impact100, we can now build on that momentum by making our facility safer, more accessible, and better equipped to serve our growing community for years to come."

For more information about the Boyne Arts Center and upcoming programs, visit www.boynearts.org or follow the organization on social media @boyne_arts_center.

Charlevoix County voters approve fire, EMS and county millages

This story was sent as a special edition on Wednesday morning.

By Annie Doyle Grove, annie@boynecitizen.com 

More than one-third of Charlevoix County voters cast ballots in Tuesday's primary election, approving every local millage proposal on the ballot while delivering a closely watched Democratic U.S. Senate primary victory to Abdul El-Sayed.

According to unofficial election results, 35.4% of Charlevoix County's registered voters participated in the Aug. 4 primary.

Boyne City's turnout closely mirrored the countywide participation rate. A total of 1,178 of the city's 3,352 registered voters cast ballots, representing just over 35% turnout.

The closest major race in Charlevoix County came in the Democratic primary for U.S. Senate, where Abdul El-Sayed edged Haley Stevens by just 53 votes. El-Sayed received 1,982 votes, compared with Stevens' 1,929 votes. El-Sayed also won the statewide Democratic nomination. He will face Republican Mike Rogers in the Nov. 3 general election.

> Full story with local and state results.

Boyne City schools names Kelly Neer as new Early Learners preschool director

By Annie Doyle Grove, annie@boynecitizen.com

Boyne City Public Schools has named Kelly Neer as the new director of its Early Learners Preschool program.

Neer brings 27 years of experience in early childhood education to the position, including the past two years as preschool director in East Jordan. A Boyne City resident for the past 25 years, she said she is looking forward to serving families in her own community.

"I am excited to begin this new chapter as the Preschool Director of Early Learners," Neer said. "I am looking forward to getting to know our wonderful children, families and staff."

Neer and her husband, Jeremy, have three sons — Jack, 21, Drew, 18, and Brody, 14. Jack and Drew are Boyne City Public Schools graduates, while Brody will begin his freshman year this fall.

She said she plans to build on the preschool's existing foundation by continuing to provide "a nurturing, engaging and high-quality early childhood experience" for students and families.

Outside of work, Neer enjoys boating and serves as the assistant junior varsity girls basketball coach at Boyne City High School.

Community members will have an opportunity to meet Neer during "Donuts with the Director" from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 13, at the Early Learners Preschool playground. The informal event will give families a chance to ask questions, enjoy refreshments and learn more about the preschool program. Families are encouraged to RSVP in advance through this online registration form.

Farmers Market, Lake Side Flea Market will share Veterans Park on Saturday

The Boyne City Farmers Market and the Lake Side Flea Market will be sharing Veterans Park on Saturday, with the Flea Market continuing on Sunday. 

The Farmers Market runs from 8 a.m. to 12 noon in the southernmost section of the park and will include the second Kids in Biz session with youth vendors selling their own creations along with all of the usual market vendors. Amanda Jane will be entertaining, and an ice cream truck will be available from 10 a.m. to noon.

The Lake Side Flea Market, billed as “treasure hunting by the water” on Saturday and Sunday, features antiques, crafts, collectibles, and household goods in the northern end of Veterans Park. Prospective vendors may contact Darcy Kotalik at 231-675-6635. Formerly hosted by the Boyne City Fire Department, this year’s event proceeds will benefit the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, supporting wounded veterans and first responders.

Here is a printable PDF of the lineup of all performers for the full season.

Boyne City Sidewalk Sales this weekend

Sixteen downtown Boyne City businesses will be participating in indoor and outdoor Sidewalk Sales sponsored by Boyne City Main Street on Friday and Saturday, August 7 and 8. Print a PDF of this flyer. (Note: the flyer we printed last week had incorrect dates.)

You may donate online or mail a check to

Boyne Citizen, P.O. Box 83, Boyne City MI 49712

Thank you!

BCHS Building Trades house is for sale

The Boyne City High School Building Trades house has been listed for sale with an asking price of $414,900. It is a three-bedroom, two-bath, 1,696 sq.ft. house located at 645 Maddy Lane, next to Rotary Park. For more information or to setup a tour email: amatelski@boyneschools.org or call 231-439-8190. Take a virtual tour by clicking here. 

New young professionals group plans first networking event for Sept. 1

A new professional networking organization is bringing professionals ages 18 to 40 together from across Charlevoix County. Lake Charlevoix Young Professionals (LCYP) was established to create meaningful opportunities for professionals across all industries to connect, build relationships, grow professionally, and become more engaged in their communities. 

LCYP was spearheaded by Rachel Pott and Maddie Shields with the support of the Boyne Area Chamber of Commerce, East Jordan Chamber of Commerce, Charlevoix Chamber of Commerce, and Northern Lakes Economic Alliance.

The organization will offer networking opportunities, guest speakers, professional development, volunteer activities, and community events. Meetings will rotate between Charlevoix, Boyne City, and East Jordan, creating opportunities for professionals throughout the county to connect across industries and build meaningful relationships.

The first LCYP gathering will be held at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 1 at the Hi-Bar at Hotel Earl in Charlevoix. The inaugural event will focus on getting to know fellow professionals, building connections, gathering input, and discussing the future direction of the organization.

As LCYP grows, its goal is to create a welcoming and collaborative network where professionals can expand their connections, learn from one another, discover opportunities, and play an active role in the future of Charlevoix County.

Professionals interested in getting involved are encouraged to attend the Sept. 1 gathering and follow Lake Charlevoix Young Professionals on Facebook for upcoming events and opportunities. Click here to learn more and RSVP.

An early photo of the Ford and Ford Tractor garage, taken from the roof of the Odd Fellows building. Note the Cities Service gas pump is located on the sidewalk along Water Street, and the Hi-Speed gas station is across the corner from the Post Office. 

Dive into Boyne City pictures and history, including the history of Bob Mathers Ford

Boyne area resident Ed May wants to share Boyne City’s history with anyone interested. 

“I came to Boyne City in 1962 and have been collecting pictures and information about Boyne City and this area for years,” he said. “I have accumulated a vast collection of over 3,000 pictures and assorted area information.” 

The pictures include businesses, factories, people and veterans, and he said, “I firmly believe that our history should be available to our people at no cost, as it is their history. These pictures and information are available to you free at no cost.”

If you wish to be included, May said you just have to email him at edmay111@gmail.com, and he will add you to his distribution list.

> Here is one of his history articles with pictures - it's an early history of Bob Mathers Ford, which will be closing Sept. 1 after 53 years in business. The building has been a Ford dealer for 109 years.

Hazel James Band to perform for Evenings at the Gazebo concert on Wednesday

The Boyne Area Chamber Evenings at the Gazebo concert series continues with a performance by the Hazel James Band at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, August 12, in Old City Park. Their Facebook page says the band is "a powerhouse trio blending electric Americana with folk-rock inspiration, featuring sultry vocals and the rich sounds of mandolin and violin."

This year’s Gazebo concerts also include Maker’s Row featuring local artisans and creators, B.C. Pizza of Boyne on site, beverage trucks, and family-friendly activities.

Here is the entertainment schedule for the remainder of the summer:

• August 12 - Hazel James Band
• August 19 - Dags Und Timmah! (rescheduled from July 15)
• August 26 - Nick Veine

The chamber has reserved the Veterans Park Pavilion in case of rain, so the concerts can continue as scheduled.

Eta Nu donates $3,800 to 4th of July Festival

Pati Scott of Boyne Eta Nu Charities presents a $3,800 check to Tammy Remsberg, a member of the Boyne City 4th of July Festival Committee. Eta Nu is a Platinum Sponsor and has a long-standing tradition of supporting the festival. Over the past 22 years, the organization has donated more than $58,250, dedicated specifically to funding the community's fireworks display. Also pictured here are Eta Nu members, from left, Chris Redman, Penny Dietz, Mary Witlock, Debra Noblett, Mary Ann Newman, Susan Coyle, Marti McCallep, and Sarah Wolf. Funds were raised through contributions collected during the Farmers Market, Stroll the Streets, and the 4th of July parade.

Tire recycling collection planned for Sept. 17-18

Charlevoix County Recycling will be organizing a two-day Tire Collection Event on Thursday and Friday, Sept. 17 and 18, from 8 a.m.-5 p.m., at a location specified two weeks prior. Organizers are asking anyone interested in bringing tires to email recycle@charlevoixcounty.org and indicate how many tires you intend to bring.

“We hope to get a rough idea of the number of tires we would be taking,” an email from the Recycling Department said. “We have a single trailer that can hold 1,100 tires. Once that trailer is full, we will not accept any more. Anyone found leaving tires at the location before/after hours of operation, before the event begins, or after the event is over, can be fined $500.”

An email will be sent to those who respond two weeks prior, giving the location of the event. Questions can be directed via email, or by calling Charlevoix County Recycling at 231-547-0080.

Boyne City gas prices rise 2 cents in past week

Prices for regular unleaded gas rose 2 cents a gallon from $4.27 to $4.29 in the past week at the Marathon station at 470 N. Lake Street in the past week, while diesel remained at $5.49. Here are recent prices spot checked by the Boyne Citizen since the Iran war started on Feb. 28:

• March 3 - $3.099
• March 6 - $3.409
• March 12 - $3.669
• March 21 - $3.999
• March 26 - $4.199
• March 27 - $3.999
• April 6 - $3.899
• April 7 - $4.199
• April 13 - $4.159
• April 15 - $4.099
• April 22 - $3.799
• April 24 -$3.999
• April 29 - $4.299
• May 6 - $4.799
• May 13 - $4.999
• May 20 - $4.919
• May 27 - $4.759
• June 3 - $4.459
• June 10 - $4.459
• June 17 - $4.059
• June 18 - $3.999
• June 25 - $4.299
• July 1 - $4.099
• July 8 - $3.999
• July 15 - $3.999
• July 22 - $4.299
• July 29 - $4.279
• August 5 - $4.299

> Michigan gas price average (AAA) - $4.2811. National average is $4.0801.

News Briefs

UNKNOWN MONUMENT UNVEILING - Granite commemorative monuments will be unveiled on Sunday, August 9 in the Bay Township cemeteries of Dyer and Oaklawn. The monuments pay honor to the 108 individuals who were buried in previously unmarked graves and whose identities are largely unknown. The Unknown Monument unveiling ceremony will be at 2 p.m. Sunday, rain or shine, beginning in Dyer Cemetery on Camp Daggett Road, with guest speeches and pioneer reenactments by the Girl Scout troop. The ceremony will then proceed to Oaklawn Cemetery on Horton Bay Road North, for the unveiling of the Unknown Monument and more reenactments by the Girl Scouts of the pioneers known to be buried in Oaklawn Cemetery. The Bay Township Cemetery Committee was awarded one of four Charlevoix County projects that received funding through the America250MI History Grant Program this year, part of the state’s commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. PDF poster/flier for this event. 

GOLF SCRAMBLE - The Waterfront Field of Dreams is hosting its 5th annual Golf Scramble at Ye Nyne Olde Holles Golf Club on Saturday, August 15. It’s a shotgun start at 10 a.m. with registration at 9. $65 per player includes your golf cart and catering from BC Pizza. Call Nikki Wormell to register - 231-675-9963.

GENEALOGY CELEBRATION - Charlevoix County Genealogical Society invites everyone to join them for their 50th birthday party at 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 6 at the Boyne District Library lower level Community Room. Honored guest will be Judy Muhn, president of the Michigan Genealogical Council, who has presented the local society with a 50-year certificate honoring the occasion. The event will include birthday cake, punch, genealogy games, and memorabilia from the past 50 years. Call Chris Brown, 231-582-9337 or email cmjbrown@live.com for more information.

WALLEYE FISHING COMPETITION - The best walleye anglers in the Midwest are coming to Northern Michigan as the Michigan Walleye Tour brings its 2026 Championship to Lake Charlevoix August 7-8. Anglers will be competing for thousands of dollars in cash over two days of fishing. The championship field will feature 118 anglers representing five states and Canadian provinces, launching 40 tournament boats each morning in search of the five largest walleyes they can catch. Competition begins each morning with takeoff at approximately 7 a.m. before returning at 3 p.m. for the daily weigh-in. The public is invited to attend both the morning launches and afternoon weigh-ins at Veterans Park. After two days of competition, the team with the highest combined weight of 10 walleyes (five fish per day) will be crowned the champions. Watch a recap on the Michigan Walleye Tour YouTube channel.

DEMOCRACY MARCH - The Charlevoix County Women for Democracy will hold their regular third Saturday “Join in Boyne” rally at 11 a.m, Saturday, August 15, in front of Boyne City Hall. They will begin gathering and organizing at 10:45, with the rally for freedom beginning at 11 and ending at noon. Organizers invite anyone to join them and they said, “Bring a sign or a bell or a flag! If you are unable to stand or walk for an hour, bring a chair.”

BLOOD DRIVES - Several local organizations are sponsoring blood drives in the coming weeks. Versiti Blood Center says, “The need for blood is urgent and constant. One in seven patients entering a hospital requires the availability of blood for various medical reasons.” Here are the upcoming blood drives in Boyne City and Boyne Falls:

• Walloon Lake Community Church - 1:30-6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 13.
• Boyne District Library - 1-5:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 17

> To register, click here and enter your zip code for nearby locations.

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. at 411 E Division St, Boyne City. 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 August lunch menu and August activity calendar.

LAKE CHARLEVOIX TEMPERATURE is 72°F as of Wednesday, August 5, according to LakeMonster.com.

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Regional News

From Bridge Michigan

> Abdul El-Sayed wins Michigan Senate primary in progressive ‘shockwave’ - Story

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City of Boyne City Municipal News

BUBBLER FORUM SUMMARY - A summary of the June 18 Bubbler Forum discussion is now available for those who were unable to attend or would like to review the conversation. Thank you to everyone who participated and shared their thoughts as we continue gathering community input on this topic. Read the full forum summary here.

SIGN UP FOR CITY ALERTS - The City of Boyne City has an 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, Aug. 11. Agenda page.



Obituaries

Mike Smith Celebration of Life

Please drop in any time from 1-3 p.m.

Friday, August 7, 2026 at Boyne City Hall

Mike's obituary

Phillip Johnson

October 12, 1938 ~ July 24, 2026 (age 87)

William "Bill" Hall

August 16, 1944~July 29, 2026 (age 81)

A telescope image of Barnard’s Star, a typical red dwarf star. Located just under six light years from Earth in the constellation Ophiuchus, it is the fourth-closest known stellar system to our own, after the Alpha Centauri system. Barnard’s Star itself is the closest single star to the Sun. Yet, despite its proximity, it is far too faint to be seen with the naked eye. This tiny red dwarf radiates only about three-tenths of one percent of the Sun’s luminosity, making it more than 250 times dimmer than our own star.

OUR NIGHT SKY

The night sky is not what it seems

By Rod Cortright, cortrigh@msu.edu

Look up on a clear, moonless night and it’s easy to believe you’re seeing a fair portrait of our galaxy. Thousands of brilliant stars sparkle overhead, each one seemingly chosen to represent the Milky Way. But this is an illusion. What you really see is a collection of the brightest outliers, not the billions of ordinary stars that make up much of our galaxy.

This is because nature has stacked the deck. The stars that dominate our night sky are the stellar celebrities: hot blue giants, brilliant white stars, swollen red giants nearing the end of their lives. They’re highly visible, but they are also extraordinarily rare.

Our galaxy is quietly populated by an army of humble red dwarfs – small, cool stars that burn their fuel so slowly they’ll outlive our Sun by trillions of years. These little stars account for roughly three out of every four stars in the galaxy, yet they’re so faint that many are invisible even if they lie practically in our own celestial neighborhood. If aliens judged humanity by our tallest skyscrapers, they’d come away with a very distorted picture. That’s exactly the mistake our eyes make with the night sky.

Distance deepens the illusion. Light obeys the mathematics of the inverse-square law, fading rapidly as it spreads across space. A star like our Sun disappears from naked-eye view after only a few dozen light-years, while a luminous supergiant can be thousands of light-years away.

Then there’s the matter of our location. Our solar system occupies an unremarkable suburb about 26,000 light-years from the Milky Way’s center. Between us and much of the galaxy lie vast clouds of interstellar dust, veils of microscopic particles that absorb visible light and conceal entire populations of stars. Infrared telescopes peel back those dusty curtains, revealing a Milky Way far richer and more crowded than our eyes could ever imagine. What appears to us as scattered points of light is a galaxy containing somewhere between 100 and 400 billion stars.

The next time you gaze upward, remember this: the night sky is not a census of the Milky Way. It’s a carefully biased sample, selected not by importance but by visibility. The universe isn’t trying to fool you; your eyes simply evolved to survive on the African Savanna, not to conduct galactic surveys. Fortunately, science gives us better tools than our senses alone. And when we use them, we discover a profound truth: the Milky Way is not dominated by brilliant giants, but by countless faint stars whose quiet persistence tells the deeper story of our cosmic home.

“Our Night Sky” is a monthly column 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 presenter at the Headlands International Dark Sky Park.

The Badger Woodenware Company was created and the factory constructed in 1907. It manufactured 28 different kinds of wooden household necessities, including corrugated metal and wood laundry washboards. Photograph courtesy of the Patrick McCleary Collection.

THROUGH THE HISTORIAN'S LENS

Boyne’s Badger Woodenware Company

By Patrick McCleary

In 1907, William H. White, the prominent leader of Boyne City’s early 20th-century industrial boom, conceived of the idea for the Badger Woodenware Company. White and his brothers, who held extensive local timber and lumbering operations, proposed the creation of the company - the idea being to utilize the surplus and castoffs of the larger milling operations to be used in the manufacturing of other, unrelated products. Over time, this formula would be repeated until Boyne had become an industrial network created from mills, chemical plants and a tannery.

The woodenware factory was located south of the Boyne City Gaylord & Alpena railroad tracks, opposite and eastward of White’s Mill #3. The area itself had once been Coon’s cattle pasture and many still refer to it as that. The factory was best known for producing wooden household items like washboards and a variety of wooden household items - mostly housekeeping necessities. Clothespins, something we don’t put into use today as we once did, were another product of the company. 

The Traverse City Record Eagle

Monday, January 16, 1911

WANTED – Expert clothespin machine and slotter hands. Good wages; good place to work. Badger Woodenware Company, Boyne City, Mich. 

A slotter is the person who operates a device that makes slots, grooves or similar types of openings. 

Today, surviving Badger Woodenware Company products, such as the washboard, at left, are prized by collectors as rustic vintage and antique collectibles. The Katch-Kwik mouse trap, at right, was one of the many household products produced in Boyne City by the Badger Woodenware Company. Photographs courtesy of the Ann Pittard Smith Collection.

The company’s existence in Boyne City was rather short-lived. However, during its time of operation, it appeared to be a clean and safe working environment that many local men went to work for. There is only one death on record to have taken place within the factory. Following is the newspaper account of this event. It also offers an example of the graphic detail that sometimes appeared in our early local newspapers. 

The Boyne Citizen

Tuesday, September 28, 1909 - Page 1 Column 3

MAN KILLED AT WOODENWARE COMPANY

Harvey Van Antwerp Caught by Belt and Pulley

Receives Fatal Injuries

He Lives Several Hours, but Shock is Too Much for Him

Harvey Van Antwerp, an employee of the Badger Woodenware Company and living with his parents on North East Street, while at work yesterday morning about 9 o’clock met with an accident which cost him his life. He was employed as an oiler, and his duties were mostly in the basement of the large plant. The first anyone knew of the accident was the smell of burning flesh, and on going to the basement the unconscious oiler was found lying close to a pulley and the fast-revolving pulley lying against his body and running over his form was literally roasting it. The machinery was stopped and the unfortunate man removed from his awful predicament. It is surmised that the belt had in some manner caught his clothing or he had fallen and been caught by the belt and drew him into the terrible grip. All the clothing but the man’s shoes were torn from his person. 

Dr. W.E. Tew and Dr. Marshall were immediately summoned and an improvised ambulance constructed and the unfortunate man was given every attention possible, after which he was removed to the home of his parents. He was given anodynes [pain relieving creams] to relieve him as much as possible of his severe pain, and the doctors thought if he could recover from the shock, he would survive his injuries. Dr. Tew visited him twice during the day yesterday and the man seemed to be holding his own, but about 4 o’clock last evening he breathed his last and passed quietly away, the shock being too much for his system. 

In addition to being terribly burned the belt came in contact with him, his right shoulder blade was broken and he suffered severe internal injuries. Mr. VanAntwerp was 44 years of age and had worked for the Badger Woodenware people for almost two months. He was unmarried. Manager Brazier made a careful investigation of the surroundings where he was working and is of the opinion that the man must have slipped and been caught by one of the belts and thrown up against a pulley in the basement. 

Later that same year (1909), Charles T. McCutcheon took over as Superintendent and General Manager of the operation. He was a native of Illinois, but after marrying his wife, Chloe M. Bates, the couple moved around a bit, eventually settling in Boyne City. McCutcheon remained with the company and helped see to the development of a Badger operation in Hallock, Michigan, located near the Village of Elmira. 

Boyne City’s chemical company also developed a branch in Hallock around this time, both businesses creating an employment boom for that small community. The Hallock operation was managed by Silas Demming, who was said to “thoroughly understand his business and is highly respected.” 

In its peak years of production, the Badger Woodenware Company employed 60 men with a monthly payroll of $3,200. The bulk of their product line was shipped directly to Butler Bros. of St. Louis, Missouri. That company would then distribute the woodenware items throughout their many sales connections, all clearly emblazoned with the Badger Woodenware logo (as seen below).

The Badger Woodenware Company logo. Photograph courtesy of the Ann Pittard Smith Collection.

Like so many other Boyne City and Northern Michigan lumber-boom industries, the operation faced eventual closure as local timber resources were depleted. In 1913, the Badger operation closed and later that same year, a Musical Instruments Company took up business in the abandoned factory. This company produced musical instrument players with automaton features (think Chuck E. Cheese). In those days, theaters would often use this type of player or bands of players in lieu of a live orchestra. That business too was very short-lived. In 1914, the factory was destroyed by fire and among other things, an $1,800 musical orchestra was lost in the flames. 

> Patrick McCleary is a certified genealogist who has devoted years to the ongoing research and study of Boyne City and Charlevoix County history. In addition to conducting classes on genealogy and family history, he also speaks on a variety of topics. 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 around 9. The Legion also has a breakfast on the second Saturday of every month from 8-11 a.m.

BC LANES/THE VENUE BAR & GRILL - 1199 M-75 S, Boyne City, (231) 582-6353.

> Open bowling: 3-9 p.m. Tuesdays, 3-10 p.m. Fridays, 3-9 p.m. Saturdays.

> Summer car and bike concert series continues every Tuesday at 6 p.m.:

• Tuesday, August 11 - Timberline
• Tuesday, August 18 - Peril
• Tuesday, August 25 - Yankee Station

BOYNE ARTS CENTER - 211 Water Street, Boyne City, (231) 622-2073.

> Upcoming events, classes and exhibits:

• Plein Art Meet-ups - Tuesdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
• Beginning Pastels; A Fun Way to Paint! | Tuesdays, Aug. 18, 25, Sept. 1 and 8
• Beginning Drawing Part 2 | September 2, 9, 23, and 30
• Colorful Figures: Expressive Mixed Media | September 10 & 11, 10 am - 4 pm
• Fall Artists Retreat | September 14–18
• Book a Private Art Party

BOYNE CITY FARMERS MARKET - Outdoors at Veterans Park, 207 N. Lake Street, Boyne City, from 8 a.m.-12 noon on Wednesdays and Saturdays. (231) 582-9009.

> Live music 10 a.m. to 12 noon:

• Saturday, August 8 - Amanda Jane (Family Picnic Day, Kids In Biz)
• Wednesday, August 12 - Terry Coveyou
• Saturday, August 15 - Rhett DuCouer
• Wednesday, August 19 - Full Moon Jam Band
• Saturday, August 22 - Terry Coveyou
• Wednesday, August 26 - Alex Teller
• Saturday, August 29 - Amanda Jane

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

• Mondays - Trivia, 7 p.m.
• Thursdays - Adam and The Cabana Boys, 7-10 p.m.
• Fridays - Josh Raber and Patrick Ryan, 7-10 p.m.
• Saturdays - Adam and The Cabana Boys, 7-10 p.m.

BOYNE DISTRICT LIBRARY - 201 East Main St., Boyne City, 231-582-7861. Newsletter with August events and details.

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

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

BOYNE RIVER INN - 229 Water St., Boyne City, (231) 222-4053.

> +LIVE MUSIC:

• Thursdays through August - Nelson Olstrom performs, 7-10 p.m.

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

> LIVE MUSIC:

• Friday, Aug. 7 - Chris Calleja (4-7:30)
• Saturday, Aug. 8 - Michelle Chenard (2-6)
• Friday, Aug. 14 - Yankee Station (4-7:30)
• Saturday, Aug. 15 - Chris Calleja (2-6)
• Friday, Aug. 21 - Chris Calleja (4-7:30)
• Saturday, Aug. 22 - Two Track Mind (2-6)
• Friday, Aug. 28 - Mike Ridley (4-7:30)
• Saturday, Aug. 29 - Chris Calleja (2-6)

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

> LIVE MUSIC, 7-10 p.m.:

• Friday, August 7 - Genna & Jesse
• Saturday, August 8 - Genna & Jesse
• Friday, August 14 - Sean Bielby
• Saturday, August 15 - Michelle Chenard
• Friday, August 21 - Lavender Lions Duo
• Saturday, August 22 - The Fridays
• Friday, August 28 - Brett Mitchell
• Saturday, August 29 - Pete Kehoe

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

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

EVENINGS AT THE GAZEBO - The Boyne Area Chamber concert series is held from 6:30-8 p.m. on Wednesdays in Old City Park through August 26. In addition to the music will be Maker’s Row featuring local artisans and creators, B.C. Pizza of Boyne on site, beverage trucks, and family-friendly activities each week.

> Here is the entertainment schedule:

• August 12 - Hazel James Band
• August 19 - Dags Und Timmah! (rescheduled)
• August 26 - Nick Veine

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

• September 5 - 13 - Come From Away. The remarkable true story of when the world came together. Tickets.

LAVENDER HILL FARM - 7354 Horton Bay Rd N, Boyne City. 231-582-3784.

> Live music concert series held in a renovated multi-use events barn:

• Aug. 7 - Lavender Goes Pink with Thornetta Davis
• Aug. 15 - West Texas Exiles
• Aug. 22 - Damn Tall Buildings
• Sept. 19 - Sionainn Laoi for the Boyne Heritage Center

> Pre-show Local Ground concerts line-up.

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

> Karaoke Night - every Wednesday, 9-11:59 p.m.

> Live music and events:

• Friday, August 7 - Live music with Timberline, 6-9 p.m.
• Friday, August 14 - Live music with Eric Jaqua, 6-9 p.m.
• Friday, August 21 - Live music with Seasonal Road, 6-9 p.m.
• Friday, August 28 - Live music with SAXU4IA, 6-9 p.m.
• Monday, Aug. 31 - Lit With Literature: Rites Of The Starling by Devney Perry, 7-9 p.m.

PIED PIPER ROLLER RINK - 04454 M-75 N, Walloon Lake. Admission $8, skate rental $2. Candy, chips, soda/pop, and pizza available for purchase. 

• Summer skating - August 8 from 5-9 p.m.

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

> August 20 and the third Thursday of the month - Open Mic & Stand-up hosted by Peter Allen Jensen, 6-9 p.m.

> Live music 6-9pm:

• Friday, August 7 - Bruce & The Originals
• Friday, August 14 - Dan Casula
• Saturday, August 15 - Andy Kline
• Friday, August 21 - Peter Allan Jensen
• Saturday, August 28 - Dan Casula
• Friday, August 29 - Nelson Olstrom

WALLOON WATERSHED - 4128 M-75 , Walloon Lake, (231) 535-6048.

Live music:

• Tuesdays - Laura Crowe, 6-9 p.m.
• Wednesdays - Pete Kehoe, 6-9 p.m.
• Sundays, August 9 & 23 - DJ Parker Marshall, 1-4 p.m.
• Sundays, August 16 & 30 - Nick Visconti, 1-4 p.m.

The Boyne Citizen

Jim Baumann, Editor

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P.O. Box 83, Boyne City, MI 49712

Email: jim@boynecitizen.com

Phone: 231-675-8793

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