October 24, 2024 | Issue #8 | Past issues

What a weekend!

These drone photos taken over Avalanche Preserve by Michael Cortright of North Country Cycle captured the essence of an amazing weekend. Our local trees were at their absolute peak of fall color with deep blue skies at the same time the temperatures hovered in the mid 70s. It inspired us to check out Avalanche ourselves, and that's where we ran into hometown Olympian Cary Adgate and his daughter Ireland, just starting up the steps! (The story on that is below.)

Inside this issue:

• Commission acts on housing, marina, sewage plant, trees
• Look who we ran into on the stairs at Avalanche!
• Bonneville and Cool vie for Bay Township treasurer
• It’s Friends of the Library Week
• Nonprofit seeks funding for Hemingway sculpture
• Arts Center celebrates year of accomplishments
• Raven Hill/Smithsonian project will be live-streamed
• Char-Em board members run unopposed
• Parade, Trunk or Treat and more for Halloween
• BC Hardware hosts 4th annual Veterans Night Out
• Patrick McCleary history: Beloved public school nurse
• Thanks to the donors who keep the news coming!
• Obituaries
• Music and entertainment listings

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City Commission acts on housing, marina rates, sewage plant, tree planting

Map shows location of one of the city's proposed housing sites north on Court Street.

The approximately 3-acre development area of the parcel is currently zoned multi-family residential which has a maximum density of 10 units per acre. The total acreage of the parcel can be used in the density calculations for the development area. 

The city’s goal is to create “a project that meets the housing needs of the community, especially the needs of the people who work in the City.” While the City will consider a wide variety of housing proposals, preferred development options for this site would be maximizing the number of residential units that can be supported by the site, creating long-term housing options, and creating housing that is attainable for households that are at 50% to 120% of the average median income for the Charlevoix County.

The RFQ states that the city is open to assisting the selected developer with any available governmental incentives. The proposal includes data from Housing North that supports the need for affordable housing, and the city states that “price reduction or no-cost acquisition of land could be considered for a high-quality project that meets the vision for the site and helps the city address the housing needs in the community.”

Interested development teams are invited to submit proposals to the city within 60 days of when the RFQ is distributed.

MARINA RATES

The City Commission voted to ask the State Waterways Commission for a variance to allow a 10% increase to the current Level 1 rates for seasonal boat slips in the city marina. A request for an increase last year was denied because electrical service was not available to some boat slips, but it is expected that service will be available for the 2025 season because repairs and equipment have been authorized. 

The Commission is also asking for an increase in transient rental rates from Level D to C, which would increase rates from 14% to 19%.

SEWAGE PLANT UPGRADES

The City Commission approved a recommendation from City Manager Michael Cain to award a $2.3 million contract to Grand Traverse Construction to update and expand the city’s sanitary sewer system, which was built 20 years ago. The project cost was 243% higher than C2AE engineers’ estimate of $949,200 and the commission approved the contract on a 4-1 vote with Marty Moody voting no. 

The city has been approved for a loan of up to $12.8 million at 2% interest from the Clean Water State Revolving Fund. The loan would be repaid via revenue bonds financed by a rate increase for sewer customers that would amount to a 3% for three years, followed by an estimated 1% increase in subsequent years. 

$5.6 million of the total loan may be used to expand sewer service to unserved areas, but that project depends on the city getting 50% of eligible homeowners to participate, which has not yet been accomplished.

TREE PLANTING

The Commission approved a contract with Robinson’s Landscaping and Nursery to plant 26 trees in street right-of-way areas, between the curb and sidewalk, for $13,220. 

This represented a limit of one tree per residential property, a reduction from previous years, when residents had been allowed to receive more than one tree. Last year, the city paid Robinson to plant 51 trees in street right of way areas for $21,275. This year after input from the City Commission, the Parks and Recreation Commission recommended a limit of two trees per property, which would have resulted in 43 total trees planted, but the City Commissioner stuck to its one-tree limit and approved the 26 trees on a 4-1 vote. Commissioner Sandy Pritchard, who preferred the two-tree limit, voted no.

In other action, the Commission approved a $42,000 contract with All Aspects Forestry for tree trimming, tree removal and grinding work, including site clearing for a possible future community garden site on Boice Street adjacent to the city airport. 

Look who we ran into at Avalanche!

By Jamie Baumann, jamie@boynecitizen.com

On Monday morning, the Boyne Citizen had just received several beautiful Avalanche drone pictures taken by Michael Cortright. The temperatures were in the 70s, and fall colors were at their absolute peak, and we decided to run them in this week's issue.

Our yard backs up to Avalanche, so I decided to just pop over there to find some random hikers or bikers to ask what they thought about Avalanche to add a bit of human interest to the photo caption.  

There were several cars in the lot, but only a man, a woman and a dog were visible. They were just about to start climbing the stairs when I waved to them from down below, yelling, "Hey, would you mind being interviewed about your experience at Avalanche for the Boyne Citizen?"  

They looked at each other, shrugged and yelled back, "Sure, but I thought that paper closed down." This was my first clue that they were probably locals. I explained that we had started an online Boyne Citizen newsletter.

Then, before I even asked a question, the man said, "Well, you scored, getting us as your random hikers. I've been coming here since the ‘70s." He explained that he had run and trained at Avalanche and showed me a picture on his phone of his parents sitting atop Avalanche in the late 1970s.

"Did you ever ski here?" I asked.

He said he had, with a bemused grin starting on his face and a twinkle in his eye. He repeated that he had done lots of training and running at Avalanche, because he used to be a professional athlete.  

"Oh, really, in which sport?" 

"Skiing," he answered.

At this point, I realized that we had started talking, and hadn't even introduced ourselves, so I asked who they were.

"I'm Cary Adgate. This is my daughter, Ireland Adgate, and Rudy, our dog." 

The second I heard his name, I realized this was two-time Olympian, five-time National Champion, and Ski and Snowboard Hall of Famer Cary Adgate.

Had he ever skied here? “Sheesh," I thought to myself as the degree of my foot-in-mouth disease sank in. 

So, what did he and Ireland think of Avalanche?

"It's gorgeous!," Cary said. "I don't know of another Michigan town that has such an amazing facility with the trails and the overlook," he added. Cary now sells real estate with Kidd & Leavy, and he noted that Avalanche is a great selling point when he talks to real estate clients. For one house he sold, the fact that people could step out of their front door and walk up Avalanche sealed the deal.

Ireland said that she comes to Avalanche quite a bit to run and hike alone, or with Rudy. "I feel safe here. It is secluded and quiet enough to be out in nature, but I feel safe, as a girl alone out in the woods."

Cary said he not only trained here in the '70s, but in the late ‘80s and ‘90s, he and his high school buddy Mark Guitar rode their mountain bikes at Avalanche. He and his friend would keep the trail cleared, basically, so they and others could use it. 

After we parted ways, I went home and saw on Facebook that Jillian Guzniczak reported that a bear had been spotted at 3:30 p.m. on the backside trail of Avalanche - just after I had been in the front. Well, that was Avalanche news, for sure.

Then, an email arrived from Cary telling me that his earliest experience on Avalanche was skiing when it operated as Barn Mountain. When he was in junior high, he trained with the high school ski team there. "Later, after the ski area shut down, I practiced up there with a high school teammate. We'd pack a lane with our skis and use his snowmobile to serve as our ski lift - probably 1971," he wrote. 

After this little trip down memory lane, Cary added that on Monday just after seeing me, he and Ireland ran into Boyne City's "younger Olympian" Kaila Kuhn at the top, enjoying the spectacular weather and view. Kuhn competed in the 2022 Olympics in aerial skiing. They chatted about her competition schedule for this winter.

Cary sent the Boyne Citizen a photo of his parents Dee and Betty Adgate with their Springer spaniel Corky taken in 1977. He is sure of the date, because he took the picture with a new camera he had purchased in Tokyo, Japan, that year when he competed in the World Cup Competition. The big tree in the photo still stands, next to the eastern viewing platform.

Cary and his buddy cleared the biking path in the late ‘80s and early ‘90s, and that volunteer tradition continues today with Avalanche being maintained primarily by volunteers, many from the Top of Michigan Mountain Bike Association that constructed the park's bike trails.

So, what started out as a quick trip to get a photo caption and a couple of quotes, became an "avalanche" of news for this reporter. That's why working at Boyne Citizen is just so much fun!

Nearby on the Skybridge

With peak color and perfect weather, it was no surprise that huge crowds flocked to SkyBridge Michigan at Boyne Mountain Resort over the weekend. This aerial shot from local pilot Rod Cortright shows the bride amidst the fall splendor with some of the crowd visible on the right. Their website gives the forecast for this week: “The leaves are dropping, but the colors are still popping! Peak colors will fade through the week as wind and rain move in.” SkyBridge is now open daily from 10am-5pm.

It was a nice warm day, but the Boyne City Farmers Market moved indoors on Saturday, and that's where they will be until next spring. Market Manager Leslie Kozminski said everything was running smoothly, and vendors and shoppers were all happy on a beautiful weekend morning. Several vendors also overflowed onto the sidewalk, given the ideal weather.

Bonneville and Cool vie for Bay Township treasurer

John Cool said that the two most important issues facing the township treasurer are: 1) effective budget management by ensuring that taxpayer money is allocated wisely and transparently and focusing on the needs and priorities of residents while avoiding unnecessary expenditures and 2) transparency and accountability - maintaining open communication with the public about financial decisions and making records easily accessible for public review to build trust and confidence in local government.

"As a candidate for Township Treasurer, I am committed to addressing the critical financial responsibilities and challenges that our community faces," Cool said. "I am the best person for this role because I bring a combination of financial expertise, a strong work ethic, and a deep commitment to serving our community. With a strong background in finance, I have the skills necessary to manage budgets, oversee audits, and implement sound financial practices that will benefit the township. My experience working with diverse stakeholders ensures that I can collaborate effectively with other officials and residents to meet our shared goals."

Cool has been in the banking business since 2007. Currently he is the manager of the Charlevoix State Bank branch in Boyne City. He moved to Bay Township in 2016 with his wife Savanah and daughter Keely. They have added a boxer pup Cami and the family "calls this community home." Savanah works for Char-Em ISD and Keely attends Boyne City Elementary School.

"Beyond my professional role, I volunteer my time as the treasurer for the Great Lakes Energy People Fund, serve as a mentor for Leadership Charlevoix County, and contribute as a member of the finance committee for Challenge Mountain. Previously, I served as the president of the Boyne Area Chamber of Commerce, president of the Boyne Valley Lions Club, as well as the vice chair of the Charlevoix County Brownfield Redevelopment Authority," Cool said.

The Boyne District Library Friends of the Library Board: Julie Taylor, Larry Taylor, Monica Peck (library director), Jean Musilek, Donna Diaz, Ward Collins, Kendra Lake, Julie Hasse, and Robin Wright. Not pictured: Judy Smith.

It’s Friends of the Library Week: Group funds 'remarkable projects' by selling used books

The Boyne District Library is excited to announce the annual Friends of the Library Week, celebrated this year from October 20-26, and invite the community to join in recognizing what library Executive Director Monica Peck calls “the hard work and dedication of this incredible volunteer group. The Friends are the backbone of support for our library, helping make it a thriving center for our community.”

“Over the past year, the Friends of the Library have accomplished several remarkable projects that benefit patrons of all ages,” Peck said. Most notably, they made a generous $25,001 donation to help renovate the Children's Department, ensuring a bright, welcoming, and engaging space for young readers. This renovation will include new furniture, updated technology, and more interactive learning opportunities, fostering a love of reading in our youngest community members.

Another exciting achievement is the installation of a solar-powered umbrella in the library's south-facing garden, allowing patrons to charge their devices while enjoying the peaceful outdoor space. This eco-friendly addition has already become a favorite among visitors who enjoy the garden while keeping their phones, tablets, and laptops powered.

Additionally, the Friends sponsored summer reading performances for children, bringing fun, interactive, and educational experiences to the library. These events have been a huge hit, encouraging reading and learning during the summer months.

To fund these valuable projects, the Friends of the Library sell donated used books at popular community events like Stroll the Streets and the Farmers Market. These book sales not only provide affordable reading materials to the public but also raise crucial funds for library improvements, programming, and services. The Friends of the Library will be hosting their annual BIG used book sale during Earlier Than the Bird on Saturday, November 23 from 8 a.m. to 12 noon, when shoppers can fill a bag for $5. 

As the largest volunteer group at the library, the Friends contribute countless hours to ensure the success of library events and initiatives. From organizing book sales to supporting library staff, their dedication is truly unmatched.

As we celebrate Friends of the Library Week, the library encourages everyone to learn more about this incredible group and how they continue to enhance the library and the community. Whether through volunteering or donating, there are many ways to get involved and make a difference.

> For more information about the Friends of the Library or to become a member, visit www.boynelibrary.org or stop by the library. 

Nonprofit seeks funding for Hemingway sculpture

“As soon as it was safe for the boy to travel, they bore him away to the northern woods.” Ernest Hemingway: A Life Story, by Carlos Baker

Fundraising is underway to pay for a life-size bronze sculpture of young Ernest Hemingway, for permanent placement in Horton Bay. The project has been the goal of a small group of Boyne City residents, the Friends of Ernest Hemingway in Horton Bay, alongside The Wagbo Peace Center in East Jordan, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, to realize the dream of the late Martha Sulfridge, a nationally known local sculptor with deep ties to Horton Bay. Sulfridge died in October 2023, shortly after finishing the prototype.

As imagined by Sulfridge, the sculpture, The Young Boy and the Stream, evokes a Hemingway not often seen: the boy, age 8 or 9, sturdy and resolute, with a shock of thick wild hair, clearly in his element as he wrestles with a large fish in Horton Creek. This is the Ernest Hemingway who came of age here, in northern Michigan, and provides a complement to the area’s two other bronze Hemingway sculptures: Hemingway as a young man, installed in downtown Petoskey’s Pennsylvania Park, and Hemingway the fisherman, in his later years, at the Village Green at Walloon Lake. The Young Boy and the Stream honors the author when he was just beginning to experience life, without knowing where it would take him.

The $55,000 project is led by Robin Lee Berry and Tony Williams, proprietors of Boyne City’s Freshwater Art Gallery and Concert Venue. An initial $6,000 payment was made on September 1, 2024, with incremental payments due through the scheduled finish date of May 2025. 

"I gained a deep appreciation for the presence of Ernest Hemingway in northern lower Michigan creating the theme song for ‘Young Hemingway: The Path to Paris,’ a documentary film by Dr. George Colburn of Walloon Lake,” Berry said. After completion of the film, Martha, a family member of Robin and Tony Williams,  presented her sculpture, clearly the epitome of young Hemingway's inspiration, and asked Robin and Tony to help The Young Boy and the Stream find its way to Horton Bay.

Upon completion, the sculpture will have a permanent place at the Bay Township Hall in Horton Bay, with educational signage and comfortable seating. Founding patrons will be recognized on a plaque at the sculpture site. Contributions can be made to the Wagbo Peace Center, the fiduciary and grant writer for Friends of Ernest Hemingway in Horton Bay. To see the bronze prototype, visit Freshwater Gallery, 217 S. Lake St. For information about donations and for the funding schedule, visit wagbo.org or contact Robin Lee Berry at 231-582-2588 or email robin@robinleeberry.com.

Arts Center celebrates year of major accomplishments

The Boyne Arts Center celebrated a year of accomplishments and member appreciation at its membership meeting October 21st.

The organization raised $120,167 last year, which more than covered expenses of $78,546. The money was raised with fundraising, sale of art, projects, donations, memberships, and grants.

According to President Nancy Blandford, the group added a gift shop in the gallery and foot traffic has increased significantly. Their Farm to Table dinner and auction was extremely successful, bringing in $38,000. Their themed exhibits were well-attended.

"Our classes are abundant, diverse, and in high demand," Blandford said, "And our outreach to the community has reached all segments from youth to seniors.”

Activities of the group in the past year included participation in Stroll the Streets; Women Can, Women Do for the Women's Resource Center; and youth camp at Park of the Pines. They held successful art classes, the Farm to Table Dinner and Auction, Art in the Park and a puzzle contest. 

> Click here to see the Art Center’s Year in Review report.

Community bilingual cooking classes brought students, parents, and community members together. (Courtesy of East Jordan Middle/High School and Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum)

Raven Hill/Smithsonian project will be live-streamed at Boathouse on November 1

Raven Hill Discovery Center is sponsoring a joint event with the Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum in Manhattan to highlight student projects in the Making Home exhibition opening at the museum on November 1. 

CEO and founder Cheri Leach explained that students from around the country were asked to identify a community problem and figure out a solution as a part of Cooper Hewitt's Making Home initiative. Students from Angela Bererra's Spanish class at East Jordan Middle/High School took the challenge, and their project was selected to be one of 25 featured in the museum. Their project involved inviting Spanish speakers in the community to come and cook with the Spanish students. 

The Smithsonian is flying the students to Manhattan for the opening of the exhibition. The opening will be live-streamed from the museum and celebrated locally at the Boathouse on Lake Charlevoix in East Jordan from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 1. Guests are encouraged to come at 5:30 p.m. to dine and watch the live stream at 6 p.m. The Boathouse is located at 204 Water Street, East Jordan. RSVP to cheri@miravenhill.org by Oct. 25.

Beverly Osetek

Larry Cassidy

Char-Em board members run unopposed

For the Charlevoix-Emmet Intermediate School District (Char-Em ISD) Board of Education, longevity has provided stability, consistency, and leadership to the organization for decades. Combined, board members have 120 years of service to the ISD and its mission and vision.

The seven-member Char-Em ISD Board of Education is charged with setting policies, ensuring financial integrity, evaluating and giving direction to the superintendent, and keeping abreast of legislative decisions that impact the finances and operations of the ISD. They serve six-year terms and are elected to their positions by the public; sometimes, members are appointed to fill a vacancy and then they may subsequently opt to run for election. While they each reside in a particular community, members are responsible for making decisions that impact the entire 2.5-county ISD service area of Charlevoix, Emmet, and northern Antrim counties.

“Our board members are diligent stewards of Char-Em’s resources, and even more than that, they are compassionate individuals who believe in public education and believe in our students,” said Scott Koziol, Char-Em ISD Superintendent. 

Beverly Osetek is running unopposed for her seat on the board. She has served on the Char-Em ISD board for 25 years. She currently serves as the board’s treasurer, and has served on a number of committees including personnel, finance, and facilities.  

Prior to serving on the Char-Em ISD Board, she served on the Harbor Springs Public Schools Board, where her four children went to school before each attended and graduated from college. 

"Because our organization works as a team when challenges arise, there is always a sense of collaborative thinking to find the best results. Our administrators and staff keep the board members well-informed, and we come together often at our committee meetings and board meetings. As a board, we remain aware of the latest legislative issues and financial effects that are important when making the right decisions for our students," Osetek said.

"It is a privilege to work for the ISD as a board member. It is truly an amazing organization. The entire staff and all the administrators work together to do what is best for each student. I am so proud to work on behalf of an organization that has such a tremendous impact on so many children and families," Osetek said.

Her interest in education began at a young age and has never stopped - it’s only increased as she learns more and more. Osetek graduated from Michigan State University and majored in human ecology with a focus on child development and family community services. She earned a teaching certificate at Wayne State University. "My interests have always been in helping our youth accomplish more than they ever thought possible through opportunities and guidance," Osetek said.

Larry Cassidy was first appointed to the Char-Em ISD Board of Education in 2019 to fill a vacancy created by the passing of his mother-in-law, Jane Roberts, a long-time ISD board member. He was named chairman of the board in July 2024 by the six other members, and he is running unopposed to retain his seat in the November election. 

“I previously served as an Emmet County Commissioner for six years and have always recognized the importance of people stepping up to serve our communities,” said Cassidy. “When my mother-in-law passed away, I was approached about filling her position. I knew Char-Em was a great organization, as I was teaching business classes at Pellston at that time. After five years now, I am very glad I chose to be on the board as I now really know first-hand how great Char-Em is organization-wide.”

During his time on the Char-Em ISD board, he has served on both the finance and building and grounds committees. The board members are tasked with staying on top of legislative decisions that impact education, as well as maintaining exceptional standards in the areas of special education, career and technical education, professional learning, early childhood, and the many services provided to local districts by ISD staff, such as business administration, technology, communications, homelessness supports, and many others.

Career and Technical Education continues to be an area of interest to Cassidy, and he has enjoyed watching the growth of such programs in all 11 ISD districts. “Our ISD provides so much in terms of vocational training to our students. We now partner with our locals in 22 different CTE programs among 50+ classes, from teaching students to become pilots to careers in cosmetology, construction, welding, future educators, and so many more,” Cassidy said. “I know we are helping to shape students’ futures, and that is very rewarding to me. Our communities have provided tremendous support to be able to continue these offerings.” 

Cassidy is a lifelong resident of Pellston, where he now lives with his wife Molly. The couple's son Blake attends and plays basketball at Lake Superior State University, his dad’s alma mater. The Cassidys enjoy following Blake and his team as they play basketball around the Great Lakes region.

Cassidy has worked as a financial adviser for the past 24 years with Primerica. He and Molly enjoy boating, golfing, and spending time at their winter home in Florida. 

“I enjoy being a part of an organization that challenges the norms of education and oftentimes is leading in areas not seen elsewhere,” Cassidy said. “The many great projects that have been started in my time so far are so inspiring, and my goal as a board member is to continue to provide the tools needed to allow the entire organization to continue offering superior services in our area.”

Compost fire at DPW yard

One of the compost piles at the city’s DPW yard caught fire on Sunday afternoon. No property was damaged, and the Fire Department and Public Works crews quickly had the situation under control. It is thought that the fire started via spontaneous combustion after several days of warm, dry weather.

Every imaginable ghoul and goblin will be marching in the Halloween costume parade in downtown Boyne City.

Parade, Trunk or Treat and more for Halloween

Area residents are invited to start Halloween night with downtown Boyne City's annual costume parade. Everyone is welcome to join the fun - young, old and four-legged. Bring a chair if you prefer to sit and watch all the great costumes. Line-up begins in front of Lake Street Market, 306 S. Lake St., at 4:30 p.m., and the parade begins at 4:45. It will wind around downtown from Lake Street to Water Street to Park Street, ending at the Boyne District Library. The Library Bookmobile will be open for trick-or-treating from 5 p.m. until they run out of treats. 

Just one block south of the library, the First Presbyterian Church will feature their famous Trunk or Treat. Organizer Paula Larson encourages people to make Trunk or Treat their first stop, because they usually run out of candy by 6 or 6:30 p.m. “Everyone is welcome to join our trunk line to make Halloween a safe environment for the ghosts, princesses, and Spider-Man in our community” she said. “If folks that would like to participate, please have your vehicles parked along Pine Street opposite the Presbyterian Church with their trunks open by 5 p.m. Plan on over 800 pieces of individually wrapped candy to pass out to the kids.”

OFFICIAL HOURS - The City of Boyne City official trick or treating hours are 5 to 8 p.m. 

FIRE AND EMS DEPARTMENTS at Boyne City Hall will be handing out treats from 5 to 8 p.m.

TACO TUESDAY Halloween Edition hosted by North Country Cycle Sport will be held from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, October 29 at the Boyne Forest Trail. This will be the final Taco Tuesday of the season. The ride begins at 6 p.m. and tacos are served after the ride. Costumes are encouraged but not required, and all levels of riders are welcome. Riders are reminded to bring lights if they plan to ride past sundown, and you’re free to start your ride earlier if you’d like. 

AVALANCHE BAY WATERPARK transforms into a ghostly aquatic playground for a Halloween-inspired Glow Night from 4-8 p.m. Saturday, October 26. As darkness falls, the waterpark comes alive with an eerie glow. Experience your favorite slides and attractions in a whole new light – or lack thereof. Each guest receives a glowing necklace or bracelet, turning you into luminous spirits of the night. Evening passes start at $32; Tiny Splashers, ages 2 and under, splash free. Details.

RESTAURANTS AND BARS - Many local bars and restaurants are planning Halloween parties and costume contests, including Cafe Sante, Red Mesa Grill, and Muskrat Distillery. Some of the parties are on October 26th, the Saturday before Halloween. Check our Music and Entertainment listings at the end of this newsletter. 

ADD YOUR EVENT to this list - email jim@boynecitizen.com. 

Aerial view of the Pollinator Garden at the Evangeline Township Hall on Wildwood Harbor Road. Note how the garden looks like a butterfly. It is a “Butterfly Butterfly Garden.”

Pollinator garden installed at Evangeline Town Hall

Working with Skylar MacNaughton, president of Michigan Butterfly Habitats, Evangeline Township has installed a pollinator garden at the Township Hall on Wildwood Harbor Road.

A pollinator garden is a complete habitat that provides food, nesting areas and overwintering sites for a variety of pollinators including butterflies, native bees, moths, beetles, and other insects.

MacNaughton has spent many hours on the project, which is beginning to show off some plants. There is also a Milkweed Garden on the south side of the Town Hall. 

Veterans enjoying refreshments at last year's Veterans Night Out.

BC Hardware hosts 4th annual Veterans Night Out

Boyne City Hardware will host its fourth Annual Veterans Night Out, honoring our nation's active, former and retired military heroes from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 8. All veterans are invited, along with one guest, to enjoy 20% off store-wide.

The first 24 veterans through the door at 6 p.m. receive a free gift bag valued well over $50. Enjoy refreshments, camaraderie, free samples and interactive stations with chances to win amazing prizes throughout the evening. Prize drawings will be held every 30 minutes.

Event organizer Jessica White said, “The first year we did it, we had over 100 guests ranging from a WWII vet to an 18-year-old who had just enlisted.” Here is a Facebook photo album of the 2023 event.

Open gallery to show Janssens’ latest artwork 

Local artist Vicki Janssens will host an open gallery at Vicki J Studio, 3686 Lakeshore Rd. Boyne City, from 1-4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 9. The event includes an art raffle, studio sale, and complimentary fall treats. 

Visitors will be able to view the artist’s latest body of work, including paintings from her Whispering Echoes series. Janssens paints a tapestry of visual and emotional elements that celebrate the land between lakes in northern Michigan. The project not only pays homage to the area's natural beauty but also captures the essence of its spirit, offering a heartfelt reflection on the themes of home, memory, and the enduring connection between people and the places they love. 

“I’m excited to welcome art lovers to Vicki J Studio and share my work with northern Michigan’s growing artist community,” Janssens said. “Our friendly lab, Stella, will be there to greet guests, so please stop by.” 

Conservation District annual meeting set for Nov. 14

Charlevoix Conservation District invites everyone to join them for their 76th Annual Meeting from 6-8 p.m. Thursday, November 14th, at the district office, 303 North St, Boyne City. Enjoy sandwiches from Lake Street Market and other goodies on the house and vote for incoming board members. Voters must be of legal voting age and reside in Charlevoix County. 

After a brief welcome and introductions, Jim Hettinger and Ed Otis from the Great Lakes Coalition will speak on their nonprofit group's initiative of protecting the Great Lakes region through environmentally sound management to ensure the lakes remain healthy, natural, accessible and usable forever. More information on GLC can be found at www.greatlakescoalition.org. 

Anyone unable to attend the annual meeting, Hettinger and Otis have offered to hold an additional meeting on the Great Lakes Coalition shoreline discussion from 9:30-10:30am Friday, November 15th, also in the district's Community Room. 

Space is limited. Reservations are required for both the Annual Meeting and the November 15th Extended Shoreline Discussion. To RSVP,  contact the district at 231-582-6193. 

Food pantry seeks donations for Thanksgiving turkeys

The chase is on! The Good Neighbors Food Pantry wants to round up some Northern Michigan turkeys for Thanksgiving and put them on the plates of those in need in the Boyne area. A $20 donation will provide a family with all the fixings for a complete Thanksgiving meal.

Here’s how you can donate:

• Drop off your check or cash at Pat O’Brien and Associates Real Estate in Boyne City.
• Mail your tax-deductible check to Good Neighbors Food Pantry, PO Box 35, Boyne City, MI 49712 
• Donate online at www.goodneighborsboyne.org.

With your help, Good Neighbors Food Pantry will have enough turkeys for all who shop at the pantry. The food pantry is in its10th year of service to those in our community facing food insecurity. They are located in the Boyne Area Free Clinic building, across from Rotary Park on State Street in Boyne City. They are open Tuesdays from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. and 2 - 5:30 p.m.

Fall is here, and so are the Lions' famous pasties

The Boyne Valley Lions Club in partnership with the Boyne City Hospitality Class is selling pasties. They are offering two kinds of pasties - Classic Michigan Beef and Roasted Vegetable and Mushroom for $8 each. Ordering begins now with a deadline of Monday, Nov. 4. The pasties will be distributed Friday, Nov. 8 from 3:30 - 6 p.m.at the Boyne City Hospitality Classroom in the Boyne Education Center, on the corner of S. Park St. and E. Main St. Click here to order your pasties.

The Lions Club does diabetes education and free screenings, KidSight screenings for early onset visual impairments, and White Cane fundraising for the visually impaired. The Lions volunteer for Buff Up Boyne and Adopt-A-Highway, as well as serving food to elementary school students on field days and at the school carnival. 

The Boyne Valley Lions provide financial support to Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, Robotics Team, Boyne District Library, Alzheimer's fund, Crop Hunger Walk, Charlevoix Area Humane Society, and other great causes.

Garden Club wreath sale continues until Nov. 1

The Boyne Valley Garden Club Annual Wreath and Garland Sale runs through November 1. Wreaths sell for $30 and all of the money raised goes into flowers and maintenance for the 11 gardens maintained by the club throughout the city. 

This is the club’s largest fundraiser. The 24-inch wreaths and 10 ft. strips of garland can be ordered and paid for on the club’s website.

Their wreaths are made from fresh Northern Michigan pine and cedar boughs. The pine cones are harvested throughout Charlevoix County from Norway Spruce.

Club members are out on the city streets now, contacting retail shops, businesses, restaurants and citizens to secure orders. On November 20th, club members gather at the Eagles Lodge for a festive day of wreath assembly and delivery.

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Buttons were made for Caroline Geiken Day fund-raiser after her death.

Caroline was asked to help bolster community spirit during World War II.

(Photographs courtesy of the Patrick McCleary collection.)

THROUGH THE HISTORIAN'S LENS

Love of community endeared Caroline Geiken upon the hearts of Boyne Citizens

By Patrick McCleary

The Charlevoix County History Preservation Society

Each week we’ll visit some aspect of the lesser-known history of Boyne City and the surrounding area - not only major events, but the people and families who assisted in making them happen. In doing so, we help to preserve our rich, colorful and fascinating local history. Please don’t hesitate to suggest areas of interest or to share additional information and stories by emailing throughthehistorianslens@gmail.com. Come learn with us!

Caroline Geiken was the daughter of Charlevoix pioneers Geik and Emma (Risto) Geiken. Her father was actively involved in Charlevoix’s early fishing industry, at one time operating three steam tugs. The family’s financial situation and her parents’ encouragement to better herself allowed Caroline to seek out further education after graduating her general course of study in the Charlevoix school system.

After receiving her degree in nursing, she began an impressive career, spending several years as Chief Nurse at the Camp Travis Base Hospital. In 1919 the San Antonio Evening News announced that Miss Geiken would be transferred to the base hospital at St. Louis - outlining with accolades the good works that she had done while there. In 1926 Miss Geiken became Boyne City’s public-school nurse. She was also an advocate for the Charlevoix County Health Department and a community leader for more than 25 years from 1926-1951. She was truly beloved by all who knew her. In fact, my mother, and many babies over the years were given the name Caroline in her honor. The unfortunate child to arrive at school without a hat, mittens or boots would often find these things bestowed upon them, either later that day or the following morning. 

Miss Geiken’s resources were far-reaching. Store owners, church leaders, benevolent societies and even everyday citizens came to the aid of “Miss Geiken’s Cause,” whatever that cause might be. Where there was a need, she put her keen mind and community resources to work. Whether at school or outside of the school setting, “her children” (as she called them) loved “Geiky” (as they called her). She loved and cared for each of them as if they were her own. When asked once why she never married, she responded, saying, “Husbands want children, and I already have so many of those!” 

One of the most heart-rending recitations ever given to the Boyne City community was during World War II and was delivered to a large assembly of students and their families. Not long after the first reported deaths of the war had reached the ears of the families and friends of “our boys over there,” Caroline Geiken was asked to help bolster community spirit. In her heartfelt way, she reminded her listeners of the happier days of their youth and prayed for a return to a world at peace. She sympathized with the grieving parents of “our lost boys” and in doing so, recalled bandaging the little cuts and bruises of Boyne City’s brave soldiers yet fighting on the various foreign fronts. 

Concluding her talk, she added: “Now I have only one prayer, that wherever my boys find themselves today, that there is someone there with a smile and a kind word. A willingness and the ability to care for and bandage whatever might befall them in the days to come.” It was recalled by many that there was not a dry eye in the auditorium as she took her seat again. 

It was this love of community that endeared Miss Geiken upon the hearts of Boyne Citizens of all ages. At the time of her death, a fund-raising campaign took place to establish a children’s fund in her honor. In doing so, Boyne City declared her birthday, August 21st, as “Caroline Geiken Day.” This was celebrated throughout Charlevoix and Emmet counties - complete with lapel pins bearing her photograph! 

Boyne Area News Briefs

TAILGATE PARTY - Boyne City Blaze Robotics Team is hosting a Tailgate Dinner from 4 to 6 p.m. this Friday for the last regular season football game of the year. The Tailgate Dinner will be held behind the high school on the way to the football field. You can support the Robotics Team by bringing your bottles and cans for their ongoing can drive. Seniors Parents Night starts at 6 p.m., and the Ramblers host perennial powerhouse Traverse City St. Francis at 7 p.m. 

SKATE PARK BENEFIT - Duncan Studios is hosting a Paint Party Fundraiser at 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 9, at the new Peninsula Park Event Center (formerly Friggy’s) to benefit the construction of Boyne Area Skate Park. Get your tickets on the skate park website.

BUSINESS OUTLOOK - The Northern Lakes Economic Alliance will present a Regional Small Business Outlook from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Friday, November 8th, at Gypsy Distillery, 5251 Charlevoix Ave, Petoskey. Join them to hear from business leaders representing diverse Northern Michigan industries, who will share their outlook on both opportunities and challenges in the year ahead. Register here. 

FREE COVID TESTS - Households across the country are eligible to order four free COVID-19 tests at COVIDTests.gov. The COVID-19 tests can detect current COVID-19 variants and can be used through at least the end of 2024. To order tests that are more accessible for people with disabilities, visit ACL.gov/AccessibleTests.

City of Boyne City Municipal News

YOU CAN STILL REGISTER TO VOTE by visiting your local clerk’s office in person all the way up to Election Day. Already registered? Great! Be sure to double-check that your voter registration is up to date and that you’re registered in the correct precinct. Visit mvic.sos.state.mi.us/Voter/Index to check your registration, find your polling place, and view a sample ballot. You can also contact City Hall at (231)582-6597 to get information about registration.

LEAF PICKUP - City residents can have their bagged leaves picked up on Mondays and Fridays from now through November 11th. Please set bagged leaves curbside in biodegradable paper yard waste bags available locally at Boyne City Hardware, Boyne Co-op and other sources. Please put only leaves in bags, as the bags are not strong enough to hold sticks, sand, or stones, and will tear upon lifting. More info.

> Or maybe it's just better to "leave the leaves."

SNOW REMOVAL & SALTING - Sealed bids are now being accepted by Main Street and the City of Boyne City for snow removal and salting services. Bids must be submitted to City Hall by 12 noon November 8. Find the full bid specifications and map on the city website.

PLANNER/ZONING ADMINISTRATOR - The City of Boyne City is seeking an experienced Planner/Zoning Administrator to lead the Northern Michigan waterfront community’s successful two person department in the provision of planning, zoning, and code enforcement services to the City and two adjacent townships. Submit resume, letter of interest, salary history and requirements, and three references to: Michael Cain, City Manager, City of Boyne City, 319 North Lake Street, Boyne City, MI. 49712-1101, by November 4. EOE. Details. 

OPEN POSITION - POLICE OFFICER - The City of Boyne City is seeking qualified applicants for a community minded and team-oriented Police Officer. Submit letter of interest and resume to: Kevin Spate, Chief of Police kspate@boynecity.com. Position details.

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

• Airport Board – 2 seats open
• Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) – 3 seats open
• Housing Commission – 1 resident position open
• Parks and Recreation Commission – 2 positions open

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

Obituaries

Marietta Adele (Turmell) Burt

November 28, 1941 ~ October 22, 2024 (age 82)

Thank you to the generous donors who are supporting local journalism and the Boyne Citizen!

THE WAY DOWN WANDERERS, a high-energy bluegrass band from Peoria, Illinois, perform at Freshwater Art Gallery and Concert Venue on Saturday, Nov. 30. Coming soon are Thornetta Davis on Dec. 28, and Larry McCray on Dec. 29.

MUSIC, ARTS, AND ENTERTAINMENT

Please email your special events and music information to jamie@boynecitizen.com.

BARREL BACK. 4069 M-75, Walloon Lake, (231) 535-6000.

> Live music 6-9 p.m. Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays with music and trivia on Thursdays.

Mondays - Sean Bielby

Tuesdays - Lara Fullford

Wednesdays - Pete Kehoe

Thursdays - Trivia & music by Holly Keller

> Witches in Walloon Open House - Friday, October 25 - businesses are open, giveaways, decorating pumpkins and more. 

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

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

> LIVE MUSIC

Saturday, Oct. 26 - Two Beats, 7-10 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 2 - Derailed 8-11 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 9 - Two Beats 7-10 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 16 - Shuvhed 8-11 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 23 - Peril 8-11 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 30 - Yankee Station 8-11 p.m.

BOYNE CITY FARMERS MARKET. Now indoors in the pavilion at Veterans Park, 207 N. Lake Street, Boyne City. (231) 582-9009.

> Open Saturdays 8 a.m.-12 p.m.

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

> LIVE MUSIC 7 p.m.

Thursdays - Adam and the Cabana Boys

Fridays - Patrick Ryan and Josh Raber

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

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

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

> LIVE MUSIC-Fridays 4-7:30 p.m.; Saturdays 2-6 p.m.

Friday, Oct. 25 - Nelson Olstrom

Saturday, Oct. 26 - Michelle Chenard

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

> LIVE MUSIC- Mondays 6-9 p.m., Fridays, Saturdays 7-10 p.m.

Friday, Oct. 25-Michelle Chenard

Saturday, Oct. 26 - Pete Kehoe (Halloween Tomfoolery)

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

> LIVE MUSIC 7:30-9:30 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 23 - Thornetta Davis.

FRESHWATER Art Gallery and Concert Venue , 217 S Lake St., Boyne City, (231) 582-2588.

Nov. 30 - The Way Down Wanderers - High energy bluegrass. 

Dec. 28 - Thornetta Davis

Dec. 29 - Larry McCray

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

Step into suspense this Halloween season with A Very Hitchcock Halloween Double Feature featuring Vertigo and The Birds. Your $8 ticket allows you to watch both films or purchase a ticket to one movie for just $5. Details and tickets.

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

> New Sunday Brunch from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 

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

> TRIVIA NIGHT - Wednesdays at 7 p.m.

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

> KARAOKE - 9 to 11:55 p.m. every Wednesday

> Saturday, Oct. 25 - HALLOWEEN PARTY costume karaoke contest with T-Bone

Friday, Nov. 1 - Sean Bielby

Friday, Nov. 8 - Real Ingredients

Friday, Nov. 15 - Eric Jaqua

Friday, Nov. 22 - SaxU4ia

Friday, Nov. 29 - Sean Bielby

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

LIVE MUSIC on Tuesdays and Saturdays, 6-8 p.m.

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

LIVE MUSIC 6-9 p.m.

Saturday, Oct. 26 - Halloween Party with costume contest - Delilah DeWylde 

Sunday, Oct. 27 - Shouting Bones

Tuesday, Oct. 29 - David Lawston

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

> First Wednesday of the month (but it's Nov. 11th, the second Wednesday, next month) - Open Mic Nights hosted by Nelson Olstrom, 6-9 p.m.

The Boyne Citizen

Email: jim@boynecitizen.com

Phone: 231-459-4166

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