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Trail supporters
A group of approximately 20 citizens attended Wednesday’s Board of Commissioners’ meeting, raising their hands to indicate their disagreement with the board’s recent decision to halt further work on the Boyne City-Charlevoix Non-Motorized Trail. Fifteen citizens addressed the board during public comment, voicing support for the completion of the trail, although no action was taken.
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Inside this issue...
- Boyne City manager contract delayed again
- City to adjust Earl Street design after complaints
- BC school enrollment up in preliminary counts
- New bleachers, press box coming next year
- County Board approves security glass for offices
- BCHS Equestrian Team wins District
- All 5 candidates confirm for Candidates Forum
- Big crowd celebrates Boyne Citizen anniversary
- Fire destroys RV parked at home on Addis Road
- Stiggtoberfest auction benefits two causes
- Evangeline Township Board meeting summary
- Patrick McCleary history: Nicholls and Morgan partnership
- News briefs, Obituaries, and Municipal News
- Thanks to the donors who keep the news coming!
- Music and entertainment listings
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| | City manager contract delayed again | | |
By Annie Doyle, annie@boynecitizen.com
For the second time this year, Boyne City residents are watching closely as the search for a new city manager hits delays.
Former city manager Mike Cain, who served more than two decades, was terminated by the commission in March. This summer, commissioners unanimously offered the position to Elle Cole, then assistant city manager of Saline, but she later declined the offer. The commission turned next to John Matthews, who was advanced as the leading candidate in August and has served as the interim manager since June.
This Tuesday, Sept. 9, during the City Commission meeting, however, questions swirled when the commission met again and no contract was yet finalized. Mayor Tim Nemecek said the delay stemmed from a lapse in communication between city staff and legal counsel.
“We made the motion at our last meeting to move forward with John,” Nemecek said. “But the city attorney was never notified until a week and a half later. He told me he didn’t even know the commission had taken action until that Thursday, and that’s when he sent the draft contract.”
According to Nemecek, neither the city’s search consultant, Pivot, nor the attorney were in the room when the commission voted. That left the responsibility of communicating next steps to city staff.
“It was a ball that was dropped by administration staff,” Nemecek said. “Pivot and the city attorney were not present, but John and Jessica (City Clerk/Treasurer Jessica Purroll) were. They needed to follow up.”
The uncertainty has drawn attention from the public, with several residents pressing city leaders in recent weeks for an update.
Nemecek said he understands the frustration but cautioned against commissioners inserting themselves into staff responsibilities. “I don’t think it’s appropriate for the commission to micromanage by chasing down motions after every meeting,” he said. “But this is a situation where communication clearly fell short.”
Despite the setback, city officials say negotiations with the Matthews are moving forward and expect the contract to be finalized soon, hopefully at the next city commission meeting on Sept. 23.
CITY MANAGER’S REPORT includes updates from department heads, Main Street, the airport, the recent Drag Race, and the hiring of a new planning administrator. Click here for the full report.
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Allen LaBeth of 731 Earl St. shows how the proposed street would have cut into his property. The original road line is at the mailbox. The proposed street would have gone to the pink stake, making it impossible for him to park his truck in his driveway. After Tuesday’s meeting the city will redesign the road so it is close to its original configuration.
City Commission adjusts Earl Street design after residents complain
By Annie Doyle, annie@boynecitizen.com
The Boyne City Commission voted Tuesday to approve a $9,439.58 adjustment to the Earl Street reconstruction project after residents raised concerns that the initial road design would cut too deeply into their yards and driveways.
Nearly a dozen citizens attended the meeting to voice their frustrations. Nicole and Allen LaBeth at 731 Earl St. said survey stakes placed along the east side of the street revealed a plan that would shorten driveways to the point where vehicles could no longer be parked safely on private property. They worried the new alignment would remove trees and leave homes just 25 feet from the roadway.
“People saw the stakes in their front yards and said, ‘Wait, what’s going on here?’” Interim City Manager John Mathews said. “That’s when we met with the homeowners, our engineers and the contractor to come up with an alternative solution.”
The fix, recommended by Director of Public Works and Utilities Doug Varney, involves curving the road slightly westward around a Consumers Energy utility box. The adjustment keeps the roadway within city standards while preserving driveway lengths on the east side. The west side of Earl Street is an undeveloped lot owned by the Boyne City Housing Commission, which gave planners more flexibility.
The cost increase stems from quantity adjustments in driveway materials and cul-de-sac redesign work. Officials emphasized that no formal change order was necessary; instead, the commission approved Field Order #2, which authorized the revised plan.
Several other homeowners shared personal stories during public comment. Others asked that the cul-de-sac at the end of Earl Street be restored, noting that delivery trucks and school buses rely on it for turnarounds. Tracy Griffin, who lives near the dead end, said neighbors were already experiencing difficulties. “FedEx and UPS have to back into our driveway because there’s nowhere else to turn around,” she told commissioners.
Despite the frustrations, other residents praised the city for responding quickly. Peter Moss of 727 Earl St. said he appreciated the proposed compromise. “This is a common-sense solution. Everyone who met with the city yesterday was in agreement, and that doesn’t usually happen,” Moss said.
Commissioners unanimously approved the adjustment, with some noting the situation underscored the importance of competitive bidding for engineering work. Mayor Tim Nemecek said the change keeps the project on track and avoids long-term conflicts. “This way, we maintain city standards, protect the funding sources and address residents’ concerns,” he said.
Road grading and utility work on Earl Street began in May. With the new alignment approved, paving and restoration are expected to continue into the fall.
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BC school enrollment up in preliminary counts
By Jamie Baumann, jamie@boynecitizen.com
After budgeting conservatively for a 10-student loss, enrollment is currently up by almost 27 students in Boyne City Public Schools. The district is an "in formula" district, which means it receives state aid and is funded per pupil.
The state budget, including school aid budgets, which are passed separately by the legislature, haven't been finalized. Thus, the exact amount of revenue per student for the 2025-2026 school year is still unknown. Boyne City budgeted for about $10,000 per pupil this school year.
A 37-student swing in enrollment would add $370,000 in revenue to the preliminary budget the school board passed in June, which included a 10-student enrollment decrease. The June preliminary budget projected using $493,00 from the district’s fund balance to meet expenses for the current school year.
"An interesting thing about the enrollment increase are the numbers of students from out of state and downstate who have enrolled," Superintendent Pat Little told the school board at its Monday night meeting. "Each family has their own story for moving here - there is no defined pattern. We are just pleased they picked BCPS."
The district is gaining 18 students from out of state and eight from downstate. They also gained 10 students from and lost three to East Jordan and gained nine online students. They gained three students from Petoskey and lost five, and lost seven students to homeschooling. Click here to see a detailed chart of all students moving in and out of the district and where they are from or where they are going.
Enrollments are: Elementary - 452 students, middle school - 367; and high school - 407.3. High school enrollment is based upon full time equivalents (FTE), meaning that students who take Career and Technical Education classes, for example, may come from other districts for only a third of their days. The actual number of student bodies served is higher.
Morgan Shaw alternative high school currently has 24 students, but is expected to grow as some students may move from the comprehensive high school to the alternative program.
The Early Learners Program has 73 four-year-olds and 42 three-year-olds housed in the Boyne City Educational Center. Also located in that building is the Head Start Program, which has 15 students who may not all be from Boyne City. Click here for a more detailed chart of the enrollments in each grade level.
September enrollment numbers are preliminary and subject to change, because the official count that state funding is based upon is taken on October 1. State aid funding is paid to districts in 11 monthly payments with the first payment on Oct. 26, assuming the budget has been finalized. If the state budget hasn't been finalized and the first payment is late, reduced, or skipped, Boyne City will rely on its fund balance to meet expenses until the state aid is received. Districts without a healthy fund balance would need to seek bridge loans from banks to meet expenses, if a payment is late, Little explained.
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New bleachers, press box and more coming to BC athletic fields next year
By Jamie Baumann, jamie@boynecitizen.com
New bleachers, a new press box, a playground, and athletic fields are slated to be finished by the time school starts next fall at Boyne City Public Schools.
"Our current press box and bleacher system is over 30 years old and showing its age," Athletic Director Matt Windle said. "We're thrilled to bring in a modern bleacher system that not only improves safety and accessibility for our Rambler community, but also enhances the fan experience. The new system will be longer and taller, giving spectators an outstanding vantage point for football games, track meets and other events at Earl Brotherston Stadium."
The new press box will be a streamlined, one-floor structure with four designated rooms. Two will serve home and visiting coaches. One will be dedicated to the high school's Rambler Sports Network and other media. The fourth will house the game-day operations team, including announcers and scoreboard operators. "This layout ensures every group has the space they need, while also supporting high-quality broadcasts and smooth game management," Windle said.
The new bleachers will be a fully-covered metal system with both exterior and interior entrances and exits, making access easier and more efficient for fans. Underneath the bleachers, there will be a handicap-accessible ramp and concrete walkways, as well as flexible space that could be used for concession trucks to enhance the game-day experience. The seating capacity will remain just over 1,000. "The new bleachers will feel much larger and provide a more comfortable and modern atmosphere for our fans," Windle said.
There will also be significant upgrades to the baseball field, including leveling the infield and batter's box, and building up the pitcher's mound. The dugouts and storage spaces will be improved. A new scoreboard is also being considered. "These renovations will make the field more playable during our wet spring months, reducing reschedules and giving our athletes a better experience," Windle said.
Since Boyne City is a centrally located northern Michigan community, Windle also sees the improved facility as an opportunity to host more Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) playoff games, which would "bring teams and families into Boyne City to enjoy everything our town has to offer."
"We are incredibly grateful to our community for supporting these projects. These improvements will benefit our student-athletes, coaches, and fans for years to come," Windle said.
Superintendent Pat Little reported to the board on Monday that the specifications for bids for the first phase of construction projects that were approved by voters last May will go out this week.
"We chose to start with the athletic fields, because the specifications for these were easier to complete quickly, and we wanted construction to begin this summer, so taxpayers could see their money at work. Specifications for projects in the school buildings will take longer to complete," Little said.
The district is spacing out the bond sales so that the millage rates for taxpayers remain the same for the life of the bond. Subsequent bid documents, which will be released later this fall, include a requests for bids for a basic pole barn at the track/football field and for middle school playground improvements, as well as the creation of a softball field at the middle school.
Construction on Brotherson Field is projected to start June 1, 2026, and be completed by Aug. 15. The baseball field is projected to start June 1 and be completed by Sept. 15. The middle school playground and softball fields construction is projected to start June 8 and be completed by Nov. 20. "We hope to have the middle school playground completed by the time school starts, but the softball field won't be done," Little said.
In other business, the board:
- Accepted donations to the Boyne City athletic program from Tom Nagurka, Kathy Nadler, and Ron Laher and Ron Van Horn in memory of Tim Hardy, totalling $325.
- Accepted a donation to the high school band program of $13,211.11 from the Music Boosters.
| | Athletic Director Matt Windle: “Our current press box and bleacher system is over 30 years old and showing its age. We're thrilled to bring in a modern bleacher system that not only improves safety and accessibility for our Rambler community, but also enhances the fan experience.” | |
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County Board approves security glass for offices; Trail supporters speak out but no action taken
By Carole Shane, cjshane@charter.net
The Charlevoix County Board of Commissioners reconsidered a previously denied purchase of security glass for offices in the downtown County Building. At their meeting on Wednesday, Sept. 10, Commissioner Tim Kenney moved to reconsider the expenditure with Commissioner Robert Jess seconding the motion. Discussion revolved around the financial burden of spending $42,000 to further equip a building whose very future is uncertain vs. other possible ways of improving security.
Commissioner Chris Christensen objected to “shoveling money into this building. We’re being bled out,” he said. Christensen suggested there may be other ways to improve security at the building such as locking the building down with only one entrance available. A bailiff and a metal detector could be installed at that door when the building is open to the public. Commissioner Josh Chamberlain wondered whether the one door policy would apply to staff, including judges and other employees, pointing out that violent offences are sometimes perpetrated by disgruntled employees, not just members of the public.
Ultimately, the board voted 4-2 in favor of the purchase and installation of the security glass from Charlevoix Glass. Commissioners Kenney, Chamberlain, Jess and Anne-Marie Conway voted to approve the measure with Scott Hankins and Christensen opposed.
Trail supporters speak out
A group of approximately 20 citizens attended Wednesday’s Board of Commissioners’ meeting, raising their hands to indicate their disagreement with the board’s recent decision to halt further work on the Boyne City-Charlevoix Non-Motorized Trail. At their last meeting, Commissioners voted 3-2 against the funding of the initial engineering work for Phases 4 and 5 of the trail. Fifteen citizens addressed the Board during public comment, voicing support for the completion of the trail. No action was taken Wednesday, however.
The board held a public hearing on their $37.2 million 2025/2026 General Fund Budget, which includes a 4% cost of living increase for employees and a 33% increase in the cost of employee health insurance. The board later voted to approve the General Fund Budget in a 5-1 vote with Commissioner Chamberlain casting the “no” vote.
Kandi Lannen from the Area Agency on Aging Northern Michigan presented the 2024 annual report. The non-profit agency provides services to senior citizens over a 10-county area. The agency engages in community partnerships and works collaboratively with local service organizations to provide supportive programs and services for older adults and caregivers. Locally, the agency has obtained funding for the Charlevoix County Commission on Aging as well as Child and Family Services of Northwest Lower Michigan.
Lannen highlighted the range of services provided including: care management, case coordination, caregiver respite and two ombudsman positions. The ombudsman positions seek to address complaints and concerns lodged by individuals in long-term care facilities. Seventy percent of the agency’s funds come from the MI Choice Medicaid Waiver Program. Follow this link to the AAANM website and to read the full report.
The Board appointed Republican Asuka Barden and Democrat Gordon Bloem to the Charlevoix County Canvass Board.
William Cousineau was appointed to an opening on the Veterans Affairs Committee.
The board also unanimously approved resolutions pertaining to:
- Maximum Authorized Millage Rates
- Cigarette Tax Distribution
- Convention Facility Tax Distribution
- 2026 Subsidiary Fund Budgets
- 2026 Salary schedule
- Accepting Donation of Money or Property
- I.T. vSphere Licensing
- I.T Aruba Port Switches
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> You may click below to donate online or mail a check to Boyne Citizen, P.O. Box 83, Boyne City MI 49712.
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BCHS Equestrian Team wins District
The Boyne City High School Equestrian Team took first place last weekend in Gaylord, bringing home the District Championship trophy after two, 14-plus-hour days of competition in the rain. This championship earns the team a trip to Regionals in Midland. Pictured from left, above, are coach Shelly Brya and team members Emmaleah Richards, Gabbie McNitt, and Addy Stanek. Team members are shown below on their horses.
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All 5 candidates confirm for Candidates Forum Sept. 29
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 Facebook, 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 VanAlstine of the League of Women Voters. Candidates will give opening and closing statements. They will answer questions from the moderators and written questions submitted in advance, and that evening from the audience.
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.
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Showing off their "I'm a Boyne Citizen" stickers are, from left, Kalynn Huffman Brower, Michelle Cortright, new Associate Editor Annie Doyle, and Monica Peck.
Celebrating the Boyne Citizen
A crowd of about 80 people turned out for the Boyne Citizen’s first anniversary celebration on Thursday, Sept. 4, at the Boyne District Library. Everyone enjoyed coffee, tea, pastries, an “I am a Boyne Citizen” sticker - plus conversations with our board members, writers and newly named Associate Editor Annie Doyle. See 30 more pictures on our Facebook page.
| | Editor Jim Baumann with four of the Citizen freelance writers - Bob Wollenberg, Kalynn Huffman Brower, Geri Dietze, and Carole Shane. | | The anniversary celebration included lots of good conversation centered around the table filled with homemade pastries. | | |
Fire destroys RV parked at Addis Road home
A local family lost a number of their possessions, including clothing, cell phones and a pet cat, when a recreational vehicle was destroyed by fire when parked in a driveway on Addis Road on Sunday.
Boyne City Fire Chief Dennis Amesbury said the original emergency call went to the Melrose Township Fire Department, but Boyne City and Hudson Township departments also responded. Amesbury said Boyne City firefighters arrived first and put the fire out, but the RV was a total loss. He said the owners thought the fire may have started in a heating/air conditioning unit.
Amber Lownsbury, a friend of the fire victims, listed some of the family’s clothing needs and sizes on her Facebook page. To arrange a donation, she can be reached via Facebook Messenger or by email at amberlownsber24@gmail.com.
> FIRE TRUCK TESTS - Chief Amesbury said the Boyne City Fire Department will be conducting an annual test of all their equipment including the ladder truck, which will be hooked up to hoses and spraying water from the parking lot behind City Hall and the fire hall at about 11 a.m. Friday, Sept. 19.
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Stiggtoberfest auction benefits two causes on 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, 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.
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Evangeline Township Board Sept. 9 meeting summary
The Evangeline Township Board held its regular meeting Tuesday, Sept. 9. Here is a summary provided by the township:
- Approved $34,000 for the township's portion of engineering cost for Call Street erosion control and paving. Of the 1,900 ft. total, 550 ft. are in the township, with the balance in the city of Boyne City.
- The Walloon Lake Collaborative will hold their second meeting on Thursday, Sept. 11.
- The township supervisor met with FEMA last Friday regarding reimbursement for ice storm damage expenses that the township incurred. All documented expenditures are due to FEMA the first week of November for the public assistance program.
- Form L-4029 was approved for the 2025 millage request to the County Board of Commissioners.
- A joint meeting of the township's boards and commissions will be held at the town hall at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 28.
- The next township board meeting will be held at 5:30 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 14.
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Township website.
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Hot rod tour coming soon
Everyone is invited to come see an estimated 70 hot rods and custom vehicles traveling through Michigan and stopping at Classic Instruments at 826 Moll Drive in the Boyne City Business Park on Monday, Sept. 15. The Good Guys Rod and Custom Association 2025 Hall of Fame Road Tour is expected to arrive around 11:15 a.m. and will depart at 12:45 after being treated to a BC Pizza lunch while they are here.
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DRAGON RIDER BLOCK PARTY - Muskrat Distillery invites everyone to join them Friday, Sept. 12, for the Dragon Rider Block Party - Chapter 2. Water Street will be closed and there will be live music, street performers, a market, “and of course all things dragon.” Here is the schedule, with activities for all ages:
- 6 to 9 p.m. - Street performers
- 6 to 10 p.m. - Market with vendors
- 7 to 10 p.m. - Live music by SaxU4ia
- 10 p.m. to 12 a.m. - After party at The Muskrat
- Kids dragon costume contest
- Adult cosplay costume contest
PEOPLE FUND - The Great Lakes Energy People Fund is accepting letters of interest and grant applications from non-profit organizations throughout its service area for the fall grant cycle. Letters of interest are due by Oct. 1. If the letter of interest is approved, the applicant can then submit a grant application by Oct. 15. All letters and applications are accepted through an online grant application portal. With the purpose of bettering local communities, the People Fund is supported solely by Great Lakes Energy members who agree to have their electric cooperative round their monthly electric bill to the next whole dollar amount.
LAVENDER HILL RUN - The inaugural Lavender Hill Run, a scenic 5K, is planned for 9 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 13 at the farm located at 7354 Horton Bay Road North. The 33-acre farm offers a unique, hilly course that winds past freshly harvested lavender plots and showcases countryside views. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just in it for the fun, all experience levels are welcome. Celebrate your achievement with a handcrafted wooden finishers medal crafted by Char-Em ISD students, and a commemorative 5k T-shirt to remember the day. Sign up here.
CITY RUBBISH PICKUP - The next collection day is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 20. Pick-up will begin at 7 a.m. Details and list of permitted items.
NATIVE PLANT SALE - Stop by the Charlevoix Conservation District's Annual Fall Native Plant Sale on Saturday, Sept. 13, from 12 noon-3 p.m. The sale will be held at the district barn, located at 303 North Street, Boyne City. Everyone is invited to come browse and buy a wide selection of native plants. Habitat flats of 38 plugs are available for pre-order only, deadline Sept. 1. For a species list and the habitat flat order form (may be mailed or emailed in), visit https://www.charlevoixcd.org/native-plant-sale. This sale is in collaboration with the Walloon Lake Association and Conservancy and the Lake Charlevoix Association.
> Tips on starting a native plant garden.
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.
SCAMMER ALERT - Consumers Energy is alerting Michiganders to be on the lookout for scammers who were contacting people by phone or email during the week of Sept. 4 and demanding immediate payment with a bogus threat that their service will be shut off. They are spoofing company phone numbers, telling the caller they need to pay a balance immediately, and insisting on using prepaid debit cards or gift cards to make payment. Consumers Energy does not demand specific methods to pay bills, such as prepaid debit cards, and they never ask for credit card information over the phone and instead will transfer you to a secure system for payment. If someone is asking for personal information and says they are from Consumers Energy, hang up and call 800-477-5050.
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. Here is the September lunch menu, and the September activity calendar.
| | City of Boyne City Municipal News | | |
The City of Boyne City’s Draft Parks & Recreation Master Plan is now open for a 30-day public review period. We invite all community members to share feedback, suggest changes, and provide input on improvements you’d like to see. Your ideas play a key role in shaping the future of our parks and recreation opportunities. The draft plan is available for review online. Feedback, input and suggested changes may be submitted via email by emailing Jen Eads at jeads@boynecity.gov prior to the deadline with the subject line "Parks & Recreation Master Plan Input." Help us make Boyne City’s parks and recreation the best they can be. Your voice matters!
SEWER PROJECT UPDATE - East Main near Marl Street remains closed for road failure/boring but should reopen next week. Hemlock and Main are being pulverized for sewer work. Main Street (M-75 to Airport) is expected open by the week of Sept 22.
Find the full update online.
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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.
We currently have alerts available for:
- Sanitary Sewer Project Updates (CWSRF).
- Boyne City Marina Project Updates.
- City Commission Agendas, Packets, and Minutes Postings.
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CITY MEETINGS – Click here for board information, agendas, and minutes.
> City Commission's next regular meeting is at 12 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 23. Agenda page.
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John Nicholls, Charlevoix lumberman and banker. Photograph courtesy of the Charlevoix Historical Society.
THROUGH THE HISTORIAN'S LENS
Zachariah Morgan’s business partner - John Nicholls
By Patrick McCleary, Throughthehistorianslens@gmail.com
The Charlevoix County History Preservation Society
Those with a knowledge of early Boyne City history are generally familiar with the story of Zachariah and Mary (Nevitt) Morgan, their contributions to the Boyne community, and the Nicholls and Morgan Brickyard. What many may be less familiar with is Mr. Morgan’s business partner, John Nicholls of Charlevoix.
After the Civil War came to an end, the Morgan family returned to the United States from Haiti. They first settled in Baltimore, Maryland, where they remained until 1870. Next, they traveled by train to Buffalo, New York, followed by steamer passage through Lake Erie and Lake Huron. Eventually the family arrived on a small sailing ship to Pine River (Charlevoix). After an overnight stay at the Fountain City House, they went to the Undine Settlement (once located between Charlevoix and Horton Bay - along the Boyne City-Charlevoix Road.) After traveling the distance to what is now Boyne City, the Morgans took up their homestead about one mile from the mouth of the Boyne River.
The first season proved to be difficult. Morgan continued to work in the winter to buy food and supplies for the family, cutting railroad ties and chopping wood. In 1873, he went to work in the Nicholls Mill in Pine River. Later, Mr. Nicholls purchased some land at the head of Pine Lake (now Boyne City) from George Esterly of Whitewater, Wisconsin. Mr. Esterly had come to Pine River in 1871 with the intention of starting a grist mill. This relationship soon became a partnership in 1878, when Mr. Nicholls sold a half-interest in this land to Zachariah Morgan for $1,000.
The pair first set out to plat the Village of South Boyne, then Mr. Morgan established his brick-making factory. The Morgan Brickyard was located on the northwest corner of East Main and Boyne Avenue - not far from “Forest Lake,” also known as “Mud Lake.” Buildings and other projects soon began to dot the city and rural areas with the company’s signature cream-colored brick.
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John Nicholls’ Charlevoix Lumber Company – dealers in hardwood, hemlock and pine. Photograph courtesy of the Patrick McCleary collection.
PIONEER BUSNESSMAN JOHN NICHOLLS
John Nicholls, Charlevoix lumberman and banker, was born on June 13, 1829 in Kingsbridge, Devonshire, England, the son of Henry and Elizabeth (Jarvis) Nicholls. He came to the United States at the age of 22, settling at Whitewater, Wisconsin. In 1859, John married Mary Augusta French, his first wife and subsequently the mother of his five children at Galesville, Wisconsin. After the birth of their fifth child in 1868, Mary died the following year. In 1871, he married his second wife, Caroline E Lewis at Walworth County, Wisconsin. The family came to Charlevoix in 1876, where Mr. Nicholls immediately began making his mark on local history.
While still living in Wisconsin, he had served a term in the state legislature. However, political aspirations had little attraction for him after reaching Northern Michigan. His interests instead turned to business and the welfare and progress of Charlevoix and its citizens. His sound business judgment not only established his very comfortable fortune, but identified him as one of Charlevoix’s wealthiest citizens and a senior member of a banking firm known as Nicholls, Buttars & Bridge.
Mr. Nicholls’ lumbering operation was known as the Charlevoix Lumbering Company. The firm were dealers in hardwood, hemlock and pine; lumber for building; as well as shingles, lath, door and sash frames. Screen doors and windows were made to order and furnished hotels and cottages throughout the resort region. The company’s properties soon extended many miles throughout Charlevoix and the surrounding counties, drawing hardwood, hemlock and pine from the acreage. The company’s wood yards were located on the river. The saw and planning mills ran in connection with the business and employed a large labor force.
After Caroline Nicholls passed away in 1911, John remained a widower until his death on December 8, 1915. “The Grand Old Man of Charlevoix” as Mr. Nicholls was then referred to, passed away at the age of 86.
| | > 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.
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Founding Donor
$5000+
Charlevoix County Community Foundation
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The Hill Donors
$1000 - $4999
Kirk and Lynne Jabara
Cortright Family Community Fund
Pat and Jane O'Brien
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Avalanche Donors
$500-$999
Stowe Family Fund
Frank and Chris Carleton
Lynne Ross
Bud and Nancy Shear
Ashley Cousens
Richard Bergmann
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
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Leslie Neilson
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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
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Heaton Veterinary Hospital
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Matthew Blandford
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Leon W. and Wendy J. Stadt
Richard and Paula Paul
Jim and Nancy McKinstry
Corine and Craig Babb
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Randy and Betty Hackney
Catherine Pumford
Patti Jasper
Carol and Steve Persons
John Van Etten
Nancy Blandford
Anne Nemes
Charles Gremel
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Rachel and Rocky Swiss
Ralph Gillette
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Stephen Wickens
John G. Jessup
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JoEllen B. Rudolph
Susan Coyle
Elizabeth Jensen
Betsy and Steve Schnell
James Richman
John Stimpson
Larry Taylor
Carol Hanes-Nason
Skip Simms
(continued next column)
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Lake Charlevoix Donors (continued)
$100 to $499
Rob and Danielle Swartz
Carolee and Jeff Macfarlane
Richard and Maureen Shipley
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
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
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Wirt-Rivette Group & MOXIE Development
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Paige Crim
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John Betts
Capt. Bob Goodenough
John Nantau
Aaron Nemec
Rob Stout
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Gary and Nicolette Blakeslee
Ashley Nosek
Paul and Colleen Kuehl
Mary Kaselitz
Kevin Wolfe
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Monica Peck
Pat and Nicole Little
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Gow Litzenburger
Alison and Jeff Williams
Perry Irish Hodgson
Julie Tokar
Peninsula Beach Donors
$5 to $59
Deborah Schira
Sheri Rhoads
Joel Epstein
Brian and Emily Tappan
Elizabeth Brett
Cheryl Alger
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Michelle Archer
Josephine Roberts
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Jenell Kelsey Pawlus - A Storage Closet
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Shelli Duff
JoAnn M. Smith
John George Martin
Nancy Dwan
Cheryl Tournaud
John McCahan
Mary Grayson
Jeanne and Denny Phelps
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Bryan Martin concert to benefit Fire Department
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 Fighters Association. Click here to purchase tickets. For more information, call 616-395-1313.
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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.
> Fall and winter league signups now in progress.
> 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 starting 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. 13 - Full Moon Jam Band
Wednesday, Sept. 17 - BoonDoggle Cats
Saturday, Sept. 20 - Terry Coveyou
Wednesday, Sept. 24 - TBA
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.
BOYNE VALLEY VINEYARDS - 05325 US 131 S, Petoskey, (231) 373-2090.
> LIVE MUSIC
Friday, Sept. 12 - Yankee Station (4-7:30)
Saturday, Sept. 13 - Two Track Mind (2-6)
Friday, Sept. 19 - Chris Calleja (4-7:30)
Saturday, Sept. 20 - Chris Calleja (2-6)
Friday, Sept. 26 - Pete Kehoe (4-7:30)
Saturday, Sept. 27 - Chris Calleja (2-6)
CAFE SANTE - 1 Water St., Boyne City, (231) 582-8800.
> LIVE MUSIC, 7-10 p.m.
Friday, Sept. 12 - The Fridays
Saturday, Sept. 13 - Brian T. McCoskey
Friday, Sept. 19 - Pete Kehoe
Saturday, Sept. 20 - Lavender Lions Duo
Friday, Sept. 26 - The Fridays
Saturday, Sept. 27 - Michelle Chenard
CROOKED TREE ARTS CENTER - 461 E. Mitchell Street. Petoskey, (231) 347-4337.
> See website for updated art shows, entertainment, and children's activities.
Join us for a night of laughter and love at Comedy to the Rescue! - an evening of stand-up for a great cause, featuring nationally known comedian Clay Foley. Taking place on Saturday, Sept. 13 at the iconic Crooked Tree Arts Center in Petoskey, this event supports the Little Traverse Bay Humane Society and its mission to help pets and the people who love them. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the show starts at 6:30. Tickets are $30 and include admission plus a drink ticket, and 100% of the ticket price goes directly to the Humane Society. The event includes raffle baskets, LTBHS merchandise for sale, and a cash bar. Purchase tickets here or by calling 231-347-2396.
GREAT LAKES CENTER FOR THE ARTS - 800 Bay Harbor Drive, Petoskey, (231) 439 -2600.
SUMMER/FALL CONCERT SERIES:
Sept. 14 - Grand Rapids Ballet Ballet Masterworks
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.
Lavender Hill 5K run on Sept.13, Sunflower Festival on Oct. 4 plus other classes and events in their September newsletter.
MUSKRAT DISTILLING - 121 Water St., Boyne City, (231) 268-0178.
> DRAGON RIDER BLOCK PARTY - Muskrat Distillery invites everyone to join them Friday, Sept. 12, for the Dragon Rider Block Party - Chapter 2. Water Street will be closed and there will be live music, street performers, a market, “and of course all things dragon.” Here is the schedule, with activities for all ages:
6 to 9 p.m. - Street performers
6 to 10 p.m. - Market with vendors
7 to 10 p.m. - Live music by SaxU4ia
10 p.m. to 12 a.m. - After party at The Muskrat
Kids dragon costume contest
Adult cosplay costume contest
> KARAOKE - 8 to 11 p.m. every Wednesday
> LIVE MUSIC 6-9 p.m.:
Friday, Sept. 12 - SAXU4IA
Friday, Sept. 19 - Sean Bielby
Monday, Sept. 22 - Lit With Literature: A Shadow in the Ember By Jennifer L. Armentrout, 7 p.m.
Friday, Sept. 26 - Lou Thumser
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. on Tuesdays resumes in September.
Tuesday, Sept. 16 - Keith Scott
Tuesday, Sept. 23 - Lou Thumser
Tuesday, Sept. 29 - Hazel James Band
STIGGS BREWERY & KITCHEN - 112 S. Park St., Boyne City, (231) 497-6100
> October 1 and the first Wednesday of the month - Open Mic Nights hosted by Nelson Olstrom, 6-9 p.m.
> Sept. 13 and the second Saturday of the month - Karaoke with DJ T-Bone Thompson from 8-11 p.m.
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