September 25, 2025 | Issue #53 | Past issues

Harvest Festival scarecrows

It’s Harvest Festival time in downtown Boyne City, and that means scarecrows are popping up all over. The Boyne Valley Garden Club always has a creative display, pictured here at the corner of Water and Park Streets. Don't forget to enter the Boyne Area Chamber selfie contest. Snap a selfie with any scarecrow around town for a chance to win a prize. Post your photo on Facebook and tag the chamber. We have details on Saturday’s Harvest Festival inside this issue, as well as info on Young State Park’s own Harvest Festival (also on Saturday), plus a preview of Skitoberfest coming to Boyne Mountain next weekend, Oct. 3-5.

Inside this issue...

Negotiations stall in city manager search
Boyne City pushes forward on northside housing
School board OKs free student meals through Oct. 31
Harvest Festival is 'Bigger and better than ever'
City Candidates Forum set for Monday
Boyne City hosts Grayling for Homecoming on Friday
City adopts 2025 Master Plan: What it means
Welcome to new assistant planner Abdul Azeez
Boyne Resorts to upgrade valves at Boyne River Dam
Organization makes case for ranked choice voting
Charlevoix State Bank promotes staff
Two new teachers at Boyne Falls Public School
First Kid’s Art Camp was a big success
Jelly Roll kicks off Skitoberfest at Boyne Mountain
State Park hosts Harvest Festival and trick or treating
Eta Nu Charities starts busy season with Dress for Chill
Social media and keeping kids safe presentation on Oct. 6
New pavilion in Walloon Village park
Main Street taking applications for facade grants
Patrick McCleary history: A&P stores and the Arbuckles
News briefs, Obituaries, and Municipal News
Thanks to the donors who keep the news coming!
Music and entertainment listings

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BCPS board votes to subsidize free meals for all students through Oct. 31

In response to the current state budget impasse, the Boyne City School Board has approved the use of general fund dollars to provide universally free meals for all students, from preschool through high school. This initiative, approved at a special board meeting on Wednesday, Sept. 24, will ensure that every student has access to breakfast and lunch at no cost to their families.

The funding commitment, estimated at $42,000 per month, will cover meal support through Oct. 31. This measure was taken to fill a critical gap left by the lack of a state budget, which had previously funded free meals for all Michigan students for the past few years.

This universal meal program has been instrumental in removing financial barriers and reducing the stigma often associated with school meals. The BCPS Board aims to provide certainty for its students and families during this time of uncertainty at the state level.

"Our number one priority is making sure our students have the resources they need to learn and thrive, and that includes access to nutritious food," said Superintendent Patrick Little. "By approving this funding, we're providing stability for our students and their families."

The board plans to revisit the issue at its next meeting in October, should a state budget not be passed and a solution not be found to continue the program.

'Bigger and better than ever' - Boyne City set to celebrate fall at Saturday's Harvest Festival

Downtown Boyne City will transform into a celebration of the season during the annual Harvest Festival this Saturday, Sept. 27.

The event, hosted by Boyne City Main Street, runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and will close portions of Water and Lake streets to make room for vendors, live music, and family activities.

A centerpiece of the day is the Boyne City Farmers Market, featuring fall staples like apples, pumpkins, squash and carrots, alongside local goods such as honey, apple butter and cider. Shoppers can also explore artisan and craft vendors offering handmade products.

This year’s festival will be larger than in years past, according to Boyne City Main Street Director Ingrid Day. “We have more vendors than we’ve had in years past, a slightly different layout that’s easier to navigate, and some new attractions,” Day said. “Visitors can look forward to wood-carving demonstrations, a pumpkin patch, a flower bar and the always-popular free axe throwing.”

Throughout the day, live music will provide a festive soundtrack for the downtown streets, while children’s activities ensure family fun for all ages.

The Harvest Festival has become a seasonal tradition in Boyne City, celebrating local farms, makers and community spirit at the height of autumn. For more information visit https://boynecitymainstreet.com/.

> FESTIVAL MAP & FESTIVAL VENDOR LIST

HARVEST FEST LIVE MUSIC

Katherine Ryan Band 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Terry Coveyou Music 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
The Island Girl (steel drum) 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Melissa Welke 12:30 - 2:30 p.m.
The Tweed Tones 12:30 - 2:30 p.m.

USED BOOK SALE - The Friends of the Boyne District Library are hosting a used book sale in the library Community Room from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, during the Harvest Festival. The friends group says the sale will include “Books of all sorts for people of all tastes. Bargain prices and great finds.” There will also be live music with the BC Jam.

Here is a sample ballot for the Nov. 4 City Commission election.

All 5 candidates confirm for City Candidates Forum on Monday; Watch it on Facebook if you can't attend

All five candidates have confirmed that they will attend the City Commission Candidates Forum from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Monday, Sept. 29, at Boyne City Hall, 319 N. Lake Street. The forum is cosponsored by the Boyne Area Chamber of Commerce, the Boyne Citizen and The League of Women Voters Northern Lower Michigan.

The forum will be livestreamed on the City of Boyne City Facebook Page, and will be recorded and available for later viewing. Here are the five candidates who will be on the November 4 ballot for three open seats on the City Commission:

Bridget Foltz, 1007 Hull St.
Jennifer (Beano) Hampton, 429 Lewis St.
Rebecca (Becky) Houser, 442 High St.
Brian Kennedy, 648 State St.
Tim Nemecek, 327 Bailey St.

Moderators will be Jim Baumann of the Boyne Citizen, Tricia Wilcox of the Boyne Chamber, and Janet VanAlsten of the League of Women Voters. Candidates will give opening and closing statements. Voters are invited to submit questions for the candidates by emailing jim@boynecitizen.com or director@boynechamber.com. The same questions will be asked of each candidate.

> The City of Boyne City started mailing absentee ballots on Sept. 12. Here is a sample ballot.

The Boyne City High School Class of 2026 has announced their 2025 Homecoming Court. From left are Jack VanZee, Cambrynne Giem, Joey Dobbelaer, Bridget McHugh, Cameron Little, Delaney Little, Drew Neer, Emma Patten, Owen Hewitt and Malorie Carter.

BCHS hosts Grayling for Homecoming game

Boyne City High School Homecoming Week activities continue through the Homecoming game against Grayling on Friday, Sept. 26, and the Homecoming Dance on Saturday, Sept. 27. Here are the remaining activities:

Thursday, Sept. 25 - Celebrity Day - Dress as a celebrity; Homecoming Court dress as paparazzi and follow celebrities around all day. Vote for king and queen during first period.

Friday, Sept 26 - Activity Day - all day; wear red and blue; Homecoming Parade starts at 2:40 p.m. and runs from the high school to downtown Boyne City. Football against Grayling starting at 7 p.m.; halftime king and queen crowning with honored staff escorting them to the field. The game will be livestreamed by the Rambler Sports Network on the Boyne City Public Schools Facebook page.

Saturday, Sept. 27 - Homecoming Dance 8-11 p.m. Door closes at 9 p.m.

This is the cover page for the Boyne City's new Master Plan.

City adopts 2025 Master Plan: What it means for housing, recreation, and the city’s future

By Annie Doyle, annie@boynecitizen.com

What will Boyne City look like in five, 10, or even 20 years? On Sept. 23, city commissioners approved the 2025 Master Plan, a long-term roadmap that aims to answer that question.

The Master Plan is more than a binder of maps and charts — it’s the community’s vision for how Boyne City will grow, what kinds of housing will be available, where new trails and parks might be built, and how officials will prioritize public dollars. It covers everything from land use and demographics to economic development, recreation and resiliency. The full plan is available online: Boyne City Master Plan 2025.

So why should residents care? Because this plan is the playbook commissioners will use the next time a developer proposes new housing, a grant becomes available for trails, or tough choices must be made about infrastructure. It’s the lens through which leaders will weigh growth and preservation, meant to serve as a guide for future policy decisions, zoning changes and investment priorities for Boyne City.

Mayor Tim Nemecek said housing emerged as one of the biggest priorities during the update. “We kind of were struggling and going back and forth on how much housing should be part of that plan,” he said. “And then also economic diversity and sustainability — that was a big topic for me.”

Another addition Nemecek pushed for: making recreation central to the city’s future. “Boyne City is the largest recreational municipality in Charlevoix County. We have the most parks and recreational resources, from mountain biking trails to Avalanche Preserve to Peninsula Beach. That needs to be part of our plan,” he said.

The mayor pointed to a mountain biking association study showing just how much trails can drive local economies. By his estimate, Boyne City’s trail systems generate $60,000 to $80,000 in economic activity per day during summer months. “That seemed like it had to be part of our master plan,” he said.

The adoption of the plan comes as the city faces pressing questions about housing affordability, income disparities and growth pressure from tourism and second-home ownership. According to the plan, nearly 41% of households in Boyne City are considered cost-burdened by housing, while survey respondents overwhelmingly called affordable housing a top concern.

The Master Plan’s adoption followed months of uncertainty after the city’s consultant withdrew and criticism stalled progress. The delay put more than $60,000 in state grant funding at risk and, without a planning director, left the city scrambling. A steering committee eventually stepped in to move the project forward, the grant funds were retained, a modified document was approved by the Planning Commission, resulting in the completed plan approved this week.

Boyne City welcomes assistant planner Abdul Azeez

The city Planning Department has a fresh face at the table. Abdul Azeez was officially introduced during Tuesday’s Boyne City Commission meeting as the community’s assistant planner.

Azeez joins the department alongside assistant planner and zoning administrator Kyle Smith, giving Boyne City two planners working together on development and zoning matters.

Azeez brings a wide-ranging background to the role. Originally from Nigeria, he earned a degree in urban and regional planning before completing his master’s in geography at Virginia Tech University, where he specialized in geographic information systems (GIS). Most recently, he completed an internship with the City of Minneapolis.

Smith said Azeez rose to the top of a highly competitive field of applicants. “It was a really competitive pool, but we ended up choosing Azeez because of his aptitude to learn, and that upward mobility — we’re looking for growth. He is fresh to it, so he’s in training. But he’s got a different lens on things, and he questions me every day. So he keeps me in check, and I’m also learning a lot.”

The hiring process also involved a regional collaboration with Evangeline Township, which has a long-standing agreement with the City of Boyne City for shared use of the city’s planning department resources.

In his first remarks to commissioners, Azeez said he has been impressed by the welcome he has received and is eager to put his skills to work. “I’m excited to be here. I’ve been given a soft landing by my colleagues… and am really glad to contribute my expertise in GIS, and also to assist to ensure that the planning is well coordinated within the City of Boyne.”

City staff noted that Azeez joins the department at a critical time, with housing and development issues front and center.

Boyne Resorts to upgrade auxiliary spillway system at Boyne River Dam

By Jamie Baumann, jamie@boynecitizen.com

On Sept. 17, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) approved plans for an auxiliary spillway pipes valving project to be constructed at the Boyne Hydroelectric Dam Project.

Eighteen-inch valves on the downstream edge of the embankment crest will replace the plywood bulkheads at the upstream end of the dam, which is owned and operated by Boyne Resorts.

On June 13, Boyne Resorts’ engineering firm of J.E. Tiffany and Sons submitted detailed plans for the project for FERC approval.

Stacie Harris, vice president of communications for Boyne Resorts, said, "We're moving forward with an important upgrade to our auxiliary spillway system that will improve both safety and operational efficiency. FERC has authorized us to replace the current plywood bulkhead system with new 18-inch valves that will be much easier and safer to operate. This project reflects Boyne Resorts' ongoing commitment to maintaining the highest safety standards and investing in regular maintenance and improvements to ensure reliable dam operations."

Over the summer, Boyne Resorts also made comprehensive maintenance and modernization upgrades including turbine and shaft replacements, penstock exterior cleaning and recoating, and electrical relay upgrades. These are all "standard practices for hydroelectric facilities of this age and type," Harris said.

The FERC approval letter said, "No changes to the operation of the project can be made until it is authorized by FERC. Any aberrant conditions encountered during the construction should be reported to FERC as soon as practical after the situation is discovered, without interfering with any necessary emergency response."

Since February, the Boyne River Dam has temporarily not produced hydroelectric power. Electric power generation should begin again with FERC approval after the construction has been completed.

FERC will require a final construction report 90 days after the construction has been completed, which must include: 1) a certification from the design engineer that repairs were constructed in accordance with the design; 2) certification from the quality control inspection program manager that the inspection and testing concludes that the project was constructed in accordance with the plans and specifications; and 3) a certification from Boyne Resorts that the construction fulfills the design intent and was constructed according to the plans and specifications that were reviewed and approved by FERC.

Organization makes case for ranked choice voting in program at Boyne library

By Annie Doyle, annie@boynecitizen.com

As Boyne City prepares for its upcoming commissioner candidates forum on Sept. 29, some citizens are weighing how elections might look under a different system. Walloon Lake resident Bill Bray of Rank MI Vote spoke at the Boyne District Library on Sept. 23, urging Northern Michigan residents to consider what he called a “simple and powerful” change to the way elections are decided: ranked choice voting.

Bray is traveling the state to gather signatures for a ballot initiative that would give Michigan voters the option to adopt ranked choice voting in future elections. He told the Boyne City audience that the current single-choice system often splits majorities, produces unrepresentative winners, and fuels the negativity and polarization that define modern politics.

“Good people are trapped in a bad system,” Bray said. “We need a better one.”

How ranked choice works

In ranked choice voting, instead of choosing just one candidate, voters rank them in order of preference. If no candidate receives more than 50% of the vote in the first round, the lowest candidate is eliminated and those ballots are redistributed to each voter’s next choice. The process continues until one candidate earns a majority.

Bray illustrated the concept with a lighthearted example: an election for “mayor of candy town” featuring KitKat, Heath, Skittles, Butterfinger, and Hershey Special Dark. The least popular candidate would be dropped each round, with votes transferred until a final winner emerged with majority support.

Why advocates want change

Bray argued that ranked choice helps avoid the so-called “spoiler effect,” pointing to presidential elections where third-party candidates like Ralph Nader or Ross Perot siphoned votes from major candidates. Under the current system, he said, 90% of U.S. House districts are uncompetitive, and primary elections — with turnout as low as 5 to 10% — effectively decide most races.

“The incentive right now is to appeal to the edges,” Bray said, describing how partisan primaries can push candidates further left or right. “Parties end up being prioritized over people.”

Rank MI Vote claims ranked choice voting increases voter turnout, boosts civility in campaigns, and gives candidates incentive to focus on issues rather than attacks. Nationally, about 13 million voters live in areas that use the system, and cities that have adopted it have reported higher participation in municipal elections.

Organizing in Michigan

Bray said Rank MI Vote is building a grassroots network across the state, with 10 regional field teams working to collect signatures. Volunteers are encouraged to sign up at rankmivote.org or by emailing Bray directly.

“This is about building a healthier democracy,” he said. “We want voters to have more voice, and we want elections that reflect the will of the majority.”

> For more information, visit https://rankmivote.org/

From left are Vanessa Micchio, teller; Cassie Johnson, branch manager; and John Cool, market manger for Boyne City, East Jordan and Ellsworth.

Changes at the Boyne Branch of Charlevoix State Bank

Three Boyne City employees of Charlevoix State Bank are being promoted and taking on new roles and responsibilities.

John Cool has served as the first Boyne City branch manager, including the roles of customer service representative, teller and lender. In his new role as Market Manager – Boyne City, East Jordan, Ellsworth, his credit and commercial lending expertise will be applied to a larger region. He will also provide oversight and loan training to branch managers in Boyne City and East Jordan.

Cassie Johnson is being promoted to Boyne City branch manager. Vanessa Micchio is transitioning to full-time teller.

Established in 1994, Charlevoix State Bank is a locally owned community bank focused on providing fast, adaptive financial solutions and building long-term relationships. It features local decision-making, deep community knowledge and a high level of personal service. It serves business, municipalities and consumers in Charlevoix and northern Antrim counties.

Alison Gross with her boyfriend Ryan Clone, at left. Brie Mitchell is at right.

Two new teachers at Boyne Falls Public School

Boyne Falls Public School hired two new teachers this year - Alison Gross, fifth grade teacher; and Brie Mitchell, Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP) co-teacher.

Alison Gross has worked in education for 16 years, spending most of her career in Detroit working for UPrep Schools as a third grade teacher and an instructional coach. She graduated from Michigan State University, earning a bachelor's degree in elementary education and English. She also earned a master's degree in educational leadership.

"I am excited to be the new fifth grade teacher at Boyne Falls Public School," Gross said. "I have wanted to be a teacher since I was five years old and I truly feel that elementary education is my passion and calling."

When she is not teaching, she spends time with her boyfriend and their two dogs and a cat. She loves spending time on the lake, trying new restaurants, watching sports and doing yoga and pilates. She likes to Facetime with her family downstate. She is an avid reader.

"I am excited to work with scholars at the end of their elementary journey to ensure they are ready for middle school. I look forward to getting to know the families of BFPS," she said.

Brie Mitchell is a 2022 graduate of Grayling High School and currently lives in East Jordan. For the past two years, she has worked with Northwest Michigan Community Action Agency (NMCAA) in a Head Start classroom in East Jordan.

This winter, she plans to pursue her associate degree in Early Childhood Education.

Outside of school, Brie enjoys taking photographs, exploring thrift shops, spending time with family and friends, and attending classic car shows and big truck events. At home, she stays busy with her three dogs and two cats.

Mitchell said, "I am grateful for this opportunity and already feel like I've found my place here, surrounded by such a welcoming community. Working with children and watching them learn and grow brings me so much joy, and I look forward to building strong relationships with both the kids and their families."

These girls participated in outdoor exploration at Kid's Art Camp.

First Kid’s Art Camp was a big success

For the first time, Boyne Arts Center held a Kid’s Art Camp this summer, with 35 kids, ages second through eighth grade, attending one of the six week-long sessions.

Camp counselors Julie Vellis and Cindy Kujawski guided the campers through the daily sessions that explored the works of famous artists such as Matisse, Monet and VanGogh. Each day campers visited the Boyne District Library, where they learned about different artists, and then went on a walking tour showcasing art in Boyne City and then engaged in their own art projects at the Boyne Arts Center. At the end of each week, campers’ art was showcased in the Children’s Library.

The kids and their parents were enthusiastic about the experience, saying:

“My seven- year-old daughter attended camp this year and we were blown away with this experience. Not only did she learn new art skills and knowledge, but she also gained confidence as an artist! She will be back next year.”

“I can't say enough about how much my kids enjoyed the Boyne Arts Center's Kid’s Art Camp. I had one child in the younger group and two in the older group, and each of them came home smiling with paint on their hands and stories to tell. They weren't just making crafts -- they were learning about art, seeing it in the community, and feeling inspired to create their own. The mix of creativity, movement, and exploration was wonderful.”

“My kids were excited to attend art camp. They came home eager to share what they'd learned about a new artist, the medium they explored, and the outings they had around Boyne that connected them to local works of art and creative inspiration. It truly was a fun and enriching experience for them, and I'm so grateful that we have this gem right in our community.”

Plans are underway for 2026 sessions, with sign-ups beginning in January. The 2026 sessions will run from June 15 to August 14. Scholarships will be available

Stiggtoberfest auction benefits two causes on Saturday

Stiggtoberfest '25 will be held in the parking lot of Stiggs Kitchen and Brewery during the Boyne City Harvest Festival all day Saturday, Sept. 27, rain or shine. The event includes an auction that is being billed as “One community, two causes - neighbors helping kids and critters,” since proceeds benefit the Charlevoix Area Humane Society and the Stiggs Feed A Friend fund. Stiggs is located at 112 S.Park St.

Pre-register for the auction starting at 8 a.m, and pick up your bidder number before the event starts. Stiggs is accepting items for the auction through Sept. 25. To donate or get more information, contact Natasha Hizelberger at 231-881-5605 Scott MacKenzie at 231-420-0903.

Stiggtoberfest will also feature a Bloody Mary and Mimosa Bar, Plow to Pint Beer Competition, seasonal brews from the Stiggs Beer Truck, Smokin' BBQ, family fun games and activities, and live music.

Blues, brews and bonfires: Jelly Roll kicks off Skitoberfest at Boyne Mountain

Boyne Mountain Resort will toast the season Oct. 3-5 with the 16th annual Skitoberfest, a fall tradition that mixes Oktoberfest flair with a mountain-town celebration of winter’s return.

The Jelly Roll Blues Band will headline opening night, playing from 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 3. Known for their soulful blend of blues and rock, the band will set the tone for a weekend filled with live music, food, contests and family activities.

Visitors can dig into Bavarian-inspired dishes such as bratwurst, schnitzel, käsespätzle and Black Forest cake, alongside fare from local favorites like Happy’s Taco Shop and Forty Acres Tavern. Craft brews will flow from the keg trailer, and tokens can be purchased for both food and drinks.

Skitoberfest is known for its quirky competitions, including keg throwing, stein hoisting, axe throwing and spouse carrying. Kids can enjoy inflatables, pony rides, face painting and more in the Kids’ Zone, while winter sports fans can get a head start on the season at the Winter Expo, featuring gear from brands like Rossignol, Atomic and K2.

The weekend’s music lineup also includes M119 Band, Yankee Station, Sydni K, Charlie Reager, The Pink Violin Band, and Robert Yates, with performances at SkyBridge Michigan and The Back Forty. Festivities close with the traditional Pray for Snow Bonfire, a ritual that brings the mountain community together to welcome the first flakes of winter.

Admission is free, with tokens available for food, beverages and activities. Details online.

Young State Park hosts Harvest Festival and trick or treating at campsites

Young State Park will host its annual Harvest Festival this weekend, Sept. 26-27. The park will start the weekend on Friday night with the decorating of individual campsites, and picking a pumpkin for the pumpkin carving contest from their pumpkin patch (the park provides the pumpkins). A kids movie will be shown at dusk on Friday night in the day use area, with popcorn and apple cider provided for campers.

On Saturday, they start the day with doughnuts, coffee/hot chocolate in the day use area, with kids games and crafts to follow. There will be a kids costume contest in the afternoon followed by trick or treating throughout the campground. The night ends with a hayride through the park to look at the decorated sites. Site decoration and pumpkin carving judging takes place at this time also.

Pumpkin carving and the site decoration contest are for campers only; everything else is open to the public. Campers are encouraged to bring candy to hand out to the trick or treaters.

A Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry into Michigan state parks. To make a camping reservation, visit MIDNRReservations.com or call 1-800-447-2757.

Dress for Chill winter outfits are lined up for distribution in 2024.

Boyne Eta Nu Charities starts busy season with Dress for Chill and other projects

As the fall leaves light up the north, the women of Boyne Eta Nu Charities are ready to dive into their busiest season. While it is best known for the Dress for Chill Project that happens in the early fall, the group organizes several other projects designed to create community impact and empower families. The group’s vision is “A Boyne area where residents thrive, supported by a vibrant and compassionate community, with Boyne Eta Nu Charities serving as a catalyst for empowerment and positive change.”

Now in its 18th year, Dress for Chill is an important program for families of preschool and elementary school children in Boyne City who may be struggling to address all their needs. For children who qualify, Eta Nu provides all new winter outerwear – jacket, snow pants, boots, hat and mittens – so that no child misses the opportunity to enjoy our area’s cold winter months outside.

In addition to this project, the group has expanded into a new initiative, the Winter Gear Program. Supported by a grant from the Hestia Women’s Giving Circle and other local donors, this program allows several eighth-grade girls to choose their own new winter jackets. Boyne Country Sports and BC Pizza have partnered with Eta Nu on this project. The goal is to boost the self-esteem of these young women, identified by the middle school counselors, while giving them an opportunity to “go shopping” for their own new winter jackets.

Eta Nu also provides a fall-themed dinner and a mid-winter breakfast party to residents of Litzenburger Place and Deer Meadows. They partner with the Boyne City Schools Culinary and Hospitality classes, who produce “wonderful delicious and nutritious meals for those neighbors.”

In December, Boyne Eta Nu honors friends and family members who have passed away with their Lights of Love project. A special tree, lit up on the Dilworth porch, holds ornaments and colored lights purchased by community members to honor loved ones. All proceeds are given to Hospice of Michigan. Boyne Eta Nu Charities is proud to have donated nearly $125,000 over the years the project has been in existence. And finally, in the early summer, Eta Nu members collect funds to support “The Best Fourth in the North” fireworks display. They have been Platinum Sponsors for several years.

All of these worthwhile projects are funded entirely by local businesses, organizations, and individuals, along with local charitable grant money. “We are grateful for the wonderful support we receive from the Boyne community,” said Past President Marnie Parrott. “The members of the group are a dedicated bunch and look forward to continuing to partner with others in our area to empower, support and enrich the lives of our neighbors.”

Eta Nu invites everyone to visit their booth at the Harvest Festival this Saturday. There will be free cider and donuts, compliments of Boyne Main Street. “We would love to tell you more about our projects and look forward to your support of our vital mission,” Parrott said.

Social media and keeping kids safe presentation on Oct. 6

For those interested in social media and how to keep kids safe online, Government and Community Outreach Director for the MI Child Protection Registry Alish Meneely will present "Social Media: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly" on Monday, Oct. 6, from 4 to 5 p.m. in the Performing Arts Center at Boyne City High School.

Meneely will discuss the popular apps kids use and steps that can be taken at home to keep kids safe online. She will discuss traffickers' and other predators' tactics and which apps they use to contact children. Other topics will include Michigan laws about sexting and sextortion, and the Michigan Child Protection Registry.

Meneely's presentation is sponsored by Protect MIChild, Rambler Wellness, and the Health Department of Northwest Michigan. Admission is free.

New pavilion in Walloon Village

Last week the Petoskey Regional Chamber of Commerce joined the Melrose Township Downtown Development Authority (DDA) for a ribbon cutting at the new Pavilion in Melrose Township Park. Pictured from left are Emily Boehm, Northwest Michigan Habitat for Humanity; Robin Hissong Berry, Melrose Township supervisor; Scot Graden, Walloon Central Marine and Melrose Township DDA president; Broc Johnson, Melrose Township DDA; Matt Thatcher, Walloon Watershed, Walloon Lake Boat Co. and Melrose Township DDA; Aaron Garms, Keep it Real Social; and Theresa Will, Manthei Capital. The new pavilion - complete with picnic tables and large grills - is available for public rental. Details.

Main Street taking applications for facade grants

The Boyne City Main Street Façade Grant program for 2026 is now open. This program provides a reimbursement-based, matching grant for façade improvements for building and business owners within the Main Street District.

For every dollar awarded, the applicant must spend an equal amount, and individual grant amounts may be up to 50% of the project cost. A total of $20,000 is allocated to be awarded during the 2026 budget year and, while competitive, there is no specific number of grants that will be awarded.

Initial review of the grant applications will be made by the Main Street Design Committee, with the Main Street Board making final decisions in June, 2026.

Applications are due April 29, 2026. Email mainstreet@boynecity.gov for the application and guidelines, or if you have any questions. Applications can also be found on the Main Street website.

Boyne Area News Briefs

COUNTRY CONCERT - Acclaimed country music artist Bryan Martin will perform live at Boyne City High School at 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 25. This special event is held in support of the Boyne City Fire Department and the first responders of the Boyne City Fire Fighters Association. Click here to purchase tickets. For more information, call 616-395-1313.

MEAL DEALS - Cafe Sante will again be offering their $10 pasta special every Thursday, starting Oct. 2, and $5 pizza special every Monday starting Oct. 6.

WALLOON CHILI COOK-OFF - The 5th annual Chili Cook-Off is heating up Village Green Park from 12-4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 5. For $10, sample delicious chilis from some of the area’s best restaurants, vote for your favorite, and savor a full bowl of your top choice. While you’re there, browse a charming art show featuring seasonal treasures and fall-inspired creations. This event will offer more than just chili. Enjoy an art fair from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., take part in our canned food drive, and let the kids have fun with special activities. All proceeds benefit the Manna Food Project. Details.

GIRL SCOUTING - If you are a girl in grades 6-10 in Boyne City, Boyne Falls or the surrounding area; and you would like to discover all that Girl Scouting has to offer, visit www.gsmists.org for more information. Adventure awaits.

LAKE COLOR CRUISES - The Little Traverse Bay Ferry’s Harbor Princess will be offering color tours around Round Lake and Lake Charlevoix from Sept. 26-Oct. 12, weather permitting, from 2-3:45 p.m. Tickets are on sale now for $37, and children 3 and under are free. Cruises start at Bridge Park Drive in Charlevoix.

FRESHWATER CONCERT SERIES will start Saturday, Oct. 25, with the return of Steve Poltz. Tickets are $45. Call Freshwater Art Gallery and Concert Venue at 231-582-2588 to reserve tickets for $45.

RECYCLING/TRASH SURVEY - Do you throw away trash, recycle plastics, or compost food waste? Your input matters. Officials are asking the public to “Help us understand and improve materials management (think of trash, recycling, organics, etc.) in Northwest Michigan. Your feedback in this survey is vital for improved efficiency, reduced waste, and smarter resource use.” The Northwest Lower Michigan Materials Management Planning Survey is a confidential 25 question survey that is now open for response. It will take 8-10 minutes to complete, and will run through the end of September. Completed surveys may enter to win one of five $50 gift cards. Click here to take the survey.

BOYNE AREA SENIOR CENTER is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays and serves daily lunches from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. For seniors ages 60+, the donation is $3, for ages 59 and under, $8, and for children 12 and under, $6. Starting Oct. 1, the 59 and under meals will be $10, and the 12 and under meals will be $8. All 60 and older meals will be staying the same at a $3 suggested donation for each meal. Here is the October lunch menu, and the October activity calendar.

City of Boyne City Municipal News

Streets project update

The City’s 2024 Streets Project includes chip seal, fog seal, milling, resurfacing, and curb ramp upgrades across multiple streets. Current work is focused on ADA ramp reconstruction, with road resurfacing and pavement repairs to follow.

Construction on the next phase of the 2024 Streets Project will begin this week. The initial road work phase was completed in the spring, with a planned pause during the busy summer months. Work is now resuming this fall.

Last week, ADA ramps scheduled for reconstruction were marked with removal limits.

September 23 – Contractor will begin placing traffic control signage and saw-cutting sidewalk removal limits.

September 24 – Sidewalk ramp removals will begin.

Sidewalk ramp reconstruction locations:

- Water St. & Park St. Intersection – NE, SE, SW quadrants

- Main St. & Park St. Intersection – NW, NE, SE, SW quadrants

- Pleasant Ave. at W. Morgan St. – SE, NE quadrants

- Pleasant Ave. at McKinley St. – NW, NE, SE quadrants

- Pleasant Ave. at Lincoln St. – SE, NE, NW, SW quadrants

The schedule for road work improvements will be shared as soon as it is received from the contractor. Thank you for your patience as we continue to improve City streets and pedestrian access.

ELECTION TESTING - The logic & accuracy test of Boyne City’s election equipment will be held on Thursday, October 16, at 10 a.m. at Boyne City Hall. This demonstration allows the public to see how the tabulator machines operate and to observe the processing of test ballots to confirm equipment is functioning properly and recording votes accurately. The public is welcome, and encouraged, to attend.

ABSENTEE BALLOTS - The City of Boyne City has received the ballots for the November 4, 2025 City Commission Election and has mailed them to voters on the Permanent Absentee Ballot List. Absentee ballots can also be issued to voters wishing to vote absentee through Monday, November 3, at 4 p.m. All absentee ballots must be returned by 8:00 PM on Election Day to be counted. Find important dates and a sample ballot online.

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 a work in progress (we’re still ironing out a few wrinkles), but 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, Oct. 14. Agenda page.

Obituaries

Elizabeth Kathryn “Kate” Donnelly Hartlep

April 30, 1920 ~ September 20, 2025 (age 105)

William "Bill" Robert Benser

December 14, 1949 ~ September 9, 2025 (age 75)

Pictured from right to left are William H. Arbuckle; William’s son, Samuel G. Arbuckle; and William’s brother, James W. Arbuckle of Alpena. Photograph courtesy of the Charlevoix County History Preservation Society and the Bob Morgridge Collection.

THROUGH THE HISTORIAN'S LENS

The Great Atlantic & Pacific Tea Company

By Patrick McCleary, Throughthehistorianslens@gmail.com

The Charlevoix County History Preservation Society

Growing up in Boyne City in the 1970s, I remember many visits to the local A&P grocery store on the corner of Front and East Main Streets with my grandmother, Mary (Lorentz) Lemons. Stops at the meat counter would find Don Hocquard busy at work and ready to cut a beef roast to “just the right size for the pot.” I can still hear my grandmother saying, “If you can’t afford a roast, you can always afford ground beef and make up something with that.” Don would agree. If they could only see the price of ground beef today!

A generation before I can remember will most likely recall the earlier A&P store located near the corner of South Lake and Ray Streets. The grand opening of that store was quite a community event - cashier Wilma (Coon) Matelski taking in the first dollar ever spent there.

Our story doesn’t begin there though. The Great Atlantic & Pacific Tea Company (i.e. the A&P of later years), originated in a small store at 104 East Main Street, known as the Arbuckle Grocery. Great Atlantic & Pacific Tea was simply an item sold on their shelves, as the company itself had begun as a tea and coffee retailer. As the tea company itself grew, they pioneered the concept of the self-service grocery and expanded into a retail grocery chain. They not only introduced the country to tea and coffee products and a line of groceries but also became one of many companies who began to offer “premiums.” The A&P chain gave away things like dishes, cooking pots and various other home-making commodities to customers to encourage them to come back as loyal shoppers.

THE ARBUCKLE FAMILY

The Arbuckle family originated in Pennsylvania, but by 1900 were residing in Reeder Township in Missaukee County, Michigan. William H. Arbuckle and his wife, Lydia J. (Stoops) Arbuckle, were the parents of at least four children - a son, Samue,l and three daughters, Sadie, Dale and Eloise. Between 1900 and 1905, the family moved to Boyne City and set up their grocery business at 104 East Main Street. The Arbuckle grocery remained in business until 1923, with son Sam Arbuckle operating it after the death of his father in 1917.

A young Sam Arbuckle pictured here behind the counter of the Arbuckle Grocery Store, located at 104 East Main Street, Boyne City. Photograph courtesy of the Patrick McCleary Collection.

Samuel George Arbuckle (1884-1965) came to Michigan with his parents, and while they opened their retail grocery business in Boyne, he attended Ferris Institute in Big Rapids. After graduating, he worked in Lake City for a time before returning to Boyne in 1905 to assist his father in the family store. Arbuckle operated the family grocery business until 1923, when he became manager of the Great Atlantic & Pacific Tea Company and relocated to 114 Water Street.

The business location at 114 Water Street has seen a few changes of its own over the years. A wooden framed building had once been situated on this site with a barbershop being the first documented business operated there. James R. Dean (1882-1954) operated a meat market in this location in Boyne City’s early days, until he left this business to pursue his own gas station and the operation known as “Dean’s Cabins,” rental cabins along the Boyne River just across the bridge on North Park Street. In 1922, Dean became Boyne City’s Postmaster and remained in that role for many years.

The new brick façade of the Great Atlantic & Pacific Tea Company, located at 114 Water Street, Boyne City. Photograph courtesy of the Patrick McCleary Collection.

In February 1908, Sam Arbuckle married Miss Florence Hosier, a native of Boyne City. That same month, the first Boyne City Bank and nearly all of the south side of Water Street burned to the ground. The replacement structures were built of brick to ensure that another disaster of this type would not take place. Between 1923 and 1928, Sam Arbuckle continued to operate his grocery store. Sometime within that same period of time, he took over the management of the Great Atlantic and Pacific Tea Company (now being referred to as the A&P) and relocated to 114 Water Street. One of the most notable features of this establishment was the elaborate window displays created by Mr. Arbuckle.

By the 1930’s, the A&P had become one of the largest grocery store chains in the United States. When Boyne’s A&P outgrew the Water Street location, an entirely new building was erected near the corner of South Lake and Ray Streets. Later, the operation was moved to an East Main Street location, where the parking lot would abut Front Street. As time went on, though, the A&P grocery chain began to face competition and market changes that eventually led to financial struggles. Boyne City’s A&P survived into the early 1970’s but eventually went out of business.

Sam Arbuckle making a flour delivery to the Boyne City Bakery - corner of South Lake and Water Streets. It appears that he also received a donut for his efficient service. Photograph courtesy of the Patrick McCleary Collection.

“THE OPPOSITION’S CHOICE”

And what of Sam Arbuckle, the man who helped make this business venture a success for so many years? In 1950, he retired from groceries and went into the feed business. After his formal retirement in 1954, his life took an interesting turn, one which soon attracted national attention.

In 1952, Boyne City’s then Mayor, Harry Tompkins, had run without opposition for the past five years. He decided that Boyne City should have some competition for the office, and when no one ran against him, he began circulating petitions to nominate his good friend Sam Arbuckle to oppose him. This came as a surprise to Sam, as he knew nothing of it prior to seeing his name in the paper! Voters quickly approved of the selection in the February primaries and the race was on. In the April elections that year, Sam Arbuckle, “The Opposition’s Choice,” became the new mayor of Boyne City.

Now the story doesn’t end there, folks. Mayor Arbuckle remained in office until 1956 when he lost the vote to… Harry Tompkins. This set the stage for the 1958 primary with both men having two wins under their belts. Arbuckle won the vote in the primaries, but then lost in the April election to Marshall Neymark, a dry goods store operator who ran against him. These good fun political antics captured the attention of the local press and soon made their way into national newspapers as well.

Mayor Sam Arbuckle, at right, is congratulated on his successful run for Boyne City Mayor by the district manager of the A&P food chain. Photograph courtesy of the Patrick McCleary Collection.

Although few may remember his name today, Sam Arbuckle was a man who left quite a legacy in Boyne City. In addition to his involvement with the success of the hometown A&P and serving several years as Boyne City mayor, he also served on the Charlevoix County Board of Supervisors and was a past president of the Boyne City Rotary Club. In the latter capacity, he achieved a perfect attendance record for 23 consecutive years. Arbuckle was a member of the Boy Scouts Council and an active member of the First Presbyterian Church, serving as superintendent of its Sunday School, as an elder and a member of the choir.

> 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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2025 Donors

This week's new donors are listed in bold.

Founding Donor

$5000+

Charlevoix County Community Foundation

The Hill Donors

$1000 - $4999

Kirk and Lynne Jabara

Cortright Family Community Fund

Pat and Jane O'Brien

Avalanche Donors

$500-$999

Stowe Family Fund

Frank and Chris Carleton

Lynne Ross

Bud and Nancy Shear

Ashley Cousens

Richard Bergmann

Jim and Jamie Baumann

Howard and Marcia Newkirk

Paula Larson

Lake Charlevoix Donors

$100 to $499

Bekah Rutz and David Osterhouse

Karen Colburn

Monica Peck

Karen S. Mertz

Betsy and Steve Schnell

Gary Coffer

Robin Stanley

Brett Binkley

Andy Schmittdiel

Gow Litzenburger

Ken Schrader

Terry and Marilyn Neilsen

Leslie Neilson

Lawrence Organek

Kyle Roberts

Gregg and Dee Smith

Ward Collins

Jo Ellen Rudolph

Gayle Harbaugh

Kristine Brehm

Christine A. Judd

Kevin and Marci Lavin

John Hoffman

Glen Catt

Beverly Neville

Jim and Kathe Carter

Penny Hardy

Jeanine Larsen

Cindy and Bill Binder

Richard Wright

Bill Aten

Jo and Ron Danczak

Marilyn A. and Jock Rader

Marcia and Howard Newkirk

Velma and Wes Dilworth

Gail and Ron Van Horn

The Frykberg Family

Tom Schraw and Pam Cislo

Richard M. Hodgson II

Miriam Hollar

Don Ryde

Catherine Bowers

Carl and Sally VanDomelen

Nord and Pat Schroeder

The Tosch Family

Jodie Adams and Bruce Janssen

Carol Ross

Roger and Pat Jacobson

The Tripp Family

John and Jan Bennish

Steve and Carole Drake

Caren Peltier

Al and Susan Newville

Linda Knibbs

Donald and Laurie Owen

Judith Gardner

Linda Burnham

Cynthia Boal-Janssens

Ann Knutsen

Dawn Ebersole

Yvonne Looze

Heaton Veterinary Hospital

John Princing

Jeff and Kari Streelman

Mike Sheean

Julie Hermann

Lynn Smith

Cynthia Tonkavich

Bruce Krauskopf

Bill and Barb Bryant

Dean and Fran Solomon

Scott and Jane MacKenzie

Meryl and Louis Hankey

Kevin and Diane Krenn

Randy Parker

Mark and Pam Mathisen

John and Jane Rozycki

Jane Burger

Craig and Terri Reynolds

Matthew Blandford

Jane Stieber Amato and Tony Amato

Leon W. and Wendy J. Stadt

Richard and Paula Paul

Jim and Nancy McKinstry

Corine and Craig Babb

Gary and Kim Roberts

Randy and Betty Hackney

Catherine Pumford

Patti Jasper

Carol and Steve Persons

John Van Etten

Nancy Blandford

Anne Nemes

Charles Gremel

Mike and Liz Durbin

Rachel and Rocky Swiss

Ralph Gillette

Kathleen Warner

Karen Reynolds

Kimberly Altobello MacNaughton

Mike and Cheryl Delahanty

Diane M. Winchell

Nancy Cunningham

The Spang Family

Bob and Jackie Wollenberg

Stephen Wickens

John G. Jessup

Lisa and Ian Whitelaw

JoEllen B. Rudolph

Susan Coyle

Elizabeth Jensen

Betsy and Steve Schnell

James Richman

John Stimpson

Larry Taylor

Carol Hanes-Nason

Skip Simms

Rob and Danielle Swartz

Carolee and Jeff Macfarlane

Richard and Maureen Shipley

(continued next column)

Lake Charlevoix Donors (continued)

$100 to $499

Peter Moss

Gregory Damman

Polly Stillson

Anonymous

Rolf Bates

Robert Sontag

Lauren MacIntyre

Cameron O'Keefe

Cheryl and Joe Wald

Ralph and Kathleen Galbraith

Tom and Debbie Neidhamer

Linda Burgert

Lynda Christensen

Ed and Cindy Grice

Mary Jane Cargill

Scott and Kelly Kennedy

Karen and Glenn Mertz

Christopher Jones

Battjes Giving Fund

Sunset Beach Donors

$60- $99

Linda Larsen

Jack Laurent

Annabelle Hay

Kecia Freed

Kirk Kujawski

Vera Post

Polly Stillson

William Conklin

Marilyn Cousineau

Rebecca Miller

JoEllen Rudolph

Lynn Hall

Hylon Heaton III

Cheryl J. Leach

Julie Haase

David J. Graham

Julie Tokar

James Graves

Ken Allen

Clarence Rivette

Pat and Emil Nelson

"Friends of the Boyne Citizen"

Wirt-Rivette Group & MOXIE Development

Terry and Betty Desmond

Kathy Breedlove

Louis Califf

Paige Crim

Linda Wallace

Eleanor West

Bill and Dee Kelly

Dana Lorian and Ryan Hoenicke

Sharon Kemp

John Betts

Capt. Bob Goodenough

John Nantau

Aaron Nemec

Rob Stout

Monica Ross

Gary and Nicolette Blakeslee

Ashley Nosek

Paul and Colleen Kuehl

Mary Kaselitz

Kevin Wolfe

Matt and Maribeth Janer

Monica Peck

Pat and Nicole Little

JoEllen Gilbert
Gow Litzenburger

Alison and Jeff Williams

Perry Irish Hodgson

Julie Tokar

David Graham

Peggy and Jim Anthony

Peninsula Beach Donors

$5 to $59

Deborah Schira

Sheri Rhoads

Joel Epstein

Brian and Emily Tappan

Elizabeth Brett

Cheryl Alger

Carole Shane and Michael Shell

Lucy Hartlove

Mitchell and Carly Klooster

Michelle Archer

Josephine Roberts

Kathy Fruge

Rodger and Janet Smith

Mark Christensen

Janice Salisbury

Jim Nielsen

Lynne Johnson

Richard and Gayle Bouters

John Miett

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Ron Pool

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William H. Gilbert

Mary Jean Larsen

Jeanine A. Larsen

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Marc Ressler

Ken and Nancy Visser

Philip Conklin

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Steve and Erin Zucker

Don Kaegi

Karen Jarema

Zachary Shalz

Jenell Kelsey Pawlus - A Storage Closet

David Mengebier

Stephanie Bovee

Mary Clare Glabowicz

Lesley Pritchard

Cindy Simpson

Diana Winchell

Shelli Duff

JoAnn M. Smith

John George Martin

Nancy Dwan

Cheryl Tournaud

John McCahan

Mary Grayson

Jeanne and Denny Phelps

Joan and Vasco Zucchiatti

Kenneth Graham and Eileen Couchman

Frances Wolf

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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: 5-9 p.m. Tuesdays, 3-10 p.m. Fridays, 7-10 p.m. Saturdays, 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Sundays.

> Live music resumes on Saturday nights starts on Oct. 26 with Two Beats, 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 - Veterans Park, 207 N. Lake Street, Boyne City. (231) 582-9009. Open Wednesdays and Saturdays, 8 a.m.-12 p.m.

> LIVE MUSIC from 10 a.m. to 12 noon:

Saturday, Sept. 27 - Harvest Festival downtown

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

Thursdays - Adam and the Cabana Boys, 7-10 p.m.

Fridays - Patrick Ryan, 7-10 p.m.

Saturdays - College football game day specials

Sundays - Detroit Lions game day specials

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

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

> Oct. 10-19 - Skitoberfest and SkyBridge music - details.

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

> LIVE MUSIC

Friday, Sept. 26 - Pete Kehoe (4-7:30)

Saturday, Sept. 27 - Chris Calleja (2-6)

Friday, Oct. 3 - Chris Calleja (4-7:30)

Saturday, Oct. 4 - Chris Calleja (2-6)

Sunday, Oct. 5 - Chris Calleja (1:30-5)

Friday, Oct. 10 - Yankee Station - Six-Year Anniversary Party (4-7:30)

Saturday, Oct. 11 - Chris Calleja (2-6)

Sunday, Oct. 12 - Two Track Mind (1:30-5)

Friday, Oct. 17 - Chris Calleja (4-7:30)

Saturday, Oct. 18 - Chris Calleja (2-6)

Friday, Oct. 24 - Chase & Allie (4-7:30)

Saturday, Oct. 25 - Michelle Chenard (2-6)

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

> LIVE MUSIC, 7-10 p.m.

Friday, Sept. 26 - The Fridays

Saturday, Sept. 27 - Michelle Chenard

Friday, Oct. 3 - Nelson Olstrom

Saturday, Oct. 4 - Nelson Olstrom

Friday, Oct. 10 - Pete Kehoe

Saturday, Oct. 11 - Chris Calleja

Friday, Oct. 17 - The Lavender Lions Duo

Saturday, Oct. 18 - Chris Calleja

Friday, Oct. 24 - Michelle Chenard

Saturday, Oct. 25 - Halloween Tomfoolery Party featuring Sean Bielby. Ghoulish cocktails and a costume contest with gift cards for $75, $50 and $25. Register for the costume contest between 6 and 7:30 p.m. with judging at 8 p.m. Must be 18 to enter.

Friday, Oct. 31 - The Fridays

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

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

> DOWNTOWN SOUND - Crooked Tree Arts Center (CTAC) is proud to announce the Downtown Sound Performing Arts Series schedule for 2025-2026, running from September through March in the Petoskey area. This season features an eclectic mix of local, regional, and national talent, plus CTAC School of Ballet’s beloved fall and holiday performances. The first performance by the Great Lakes Chamber Orchestra on Sept. 21 is free, thanks to the generous support of GLCO patron Carolyn Klender. Downtown Sound tickets range from $10 to $60 and are available at www.crookedtree.org/downtownsound or by calling (231) 347-4337.

FRESHWATER GALLERY & CONCERT VENUE - 217 S Lake St., Boyne City, (231) 582-2588.

> Steve Poltz will perform at 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, to open Freshwater’s fall/winter concert series. Call to reserve tickets, which are $45.

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

SUMMER/FALL CONCERT SERIES:

Oct. 4 - Canadian Brass

Oct. 5 - Manhattan Short Film Festival

Oct. 16 & 17 - Cirque Mechanics Tilt!

Nov. 1 - Cantus

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

> TRIVIA NIGHT - Wednesdays, 7-9 p.m.

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

> Sunflower Festival on Saturday, Oct. 4, plus other classes and events in their newsletter.

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

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

> LIVE MUSIC:

Friday, Sept. 26 - Lou Thumser, 8 p.m.

Friday, Oct. 3 - Eric Jacqua, 8 p.m.

Monday, Oct. 6 - Lit With Literature: Dungeon Crawler Carl by Matt Dinniman, 7 p.m.

Friday, Oct. 10 - The Tweed Tones, 8 p.m.

Monday, Oct. 13 - Bloomin' Sanity Woman's Happy Hour, 5 p.m.

Friday, Oct. 17 - DJ Jordan Williams, 8 p.m.

Monday, Oct. 20 - Lit With Literature: Quicksilver by Callie Hart, 7 p.m.

Friday, Oct. 24 - The Shifties, 8 p.m.

Friday, Oct. 31 - Halloween Karaoke Costume Contest, 9 p.m.

PROVISIONS LOUNGE - 123 Water St., Boyne City, (231) 582-2151.

LIVE MUSIC, 6-8 p.m. Tuesdays.

RED MESA GRILL -117 Water St, Boyne City, (231) 582-0049.

LIVE MUSIC 6-9 p.m.

Tuesday, Sept. 29 - Hazel James Band

Tuesday, Oct. 7 - Sean Bielby

Tuesday, Oct. 14 - The Tweed Tones

Tuesday, Oct. 21 - Keith Scott

Saturday, Oct. 25 - Halloween Party with David Cisco

Tuesday, Oct. 28 - David Lawston

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

> Sept. 27 - Stiggtoberfest '25 will be held in the parking lot of Stiggs Kitchen and Brewery during the Boyne City Harvest Festival all day Saturday, rain or shine. Organizers are billing the auction as “One community, two causes - neighbors helping kids and critters,” since proceeds benefit the Charlevoix Area Humane Society and the Stiggs Feed A Friend fund. (Details in story above.) Stiggtoberfest will also feature a Bloody Mary and Mimosa Bar, Plow to Pint Beer Competition, seasonal brews from the Stiggs Beer Truck, Smokin' BBQ, family fun games and activities, and live music.

> Oct. 1 and the first Wednesday of the month - Open Mic Nights hosted by Nelson Olstrom, 6-9 p.m.

> Oct. 11 and the second Saturday of the month - Karaoke with DJ T-Bone Thompson from 8-11 p.m.

The Boyne Citizen

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

Email: jim@boynecitizen.com

Phone: 231-675-8793

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