November 14, 2024 | Issue #11 | Past issues

Inside this issue

• City will use $391,875 in ARPA funds for marina
• Foundation awards $12k grant to Boyne Citizen
• School board moves ahead on $24M bond issue
• Ramblers face Reed City in regional on Friday
• Realtors weigh in on changes in housing market
• What’s new at Boyne Mountain this winter
• McLeod inducted into Hot Rod Industry Hall of Fame
• Boyne Meets Broadway Thursday thru Saturday
• Patrick McCleary history: Naming of Jefferson Street
• Thanks to the donors who keep the news coming!
• Obituaries
• Music and entertainment listings

231-582-1700 * Boyne City homes



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Molon Excavating has started work on the city marina, preparing to bury electrical lines that will be needed to upgrade service.

Foundation awards $12k grant to Boyne Citizen

The Charlevoix County Community Foundation last week announced $12,197 in grant funds to the Boyne Citizen, the new local, nonprofit news source for the Boyne area. The Boyne Citizen made its debut September 3, created in response to the "news desert” in our local area. Currently, residents have no regular, reliable, unbiased media covering the local news that is necessary to be an informed citizen. Grant funds will help to support professional writers, and editorial and bookkeeping services. 

"We appreciate the support and confidence CCCF has in our effort to create a thoughtful, respected and engaging local news source," said Hugh Conklin, chair of the nonprofit board of the Boyne Citizen. "We are encouraged by what has been accomplished in just a few months under the leadership and commitment of editor Jim Baumann. It's obvious our community appreciates our work and understands how important a responsible news source is to the Boyne area."

Board member Michelle Cortright added, “We are grateful to the Charlevoix County Community Foundation, the Boyne Geographic committee and donor advisors for their generous grant. This support is immensely helpful to the journalistic mission of Boyne Citizen.”

In all, $176,193 in grants were awarded during the Geographic Enrichment cycle. In Boyne City, four organizations were awarded a total of $33,869. In addition to the grant to the Boyne Citizen, the Boyne District Library Children's Services received $1,672 to will host a "Family Battle of the Books," which will meet once a month for four months, starting in January of 2025. A $10,000 grant to the City of Boyne City supports the Community Heart & Soul initiative—a grassroots program that emphasizes broad, locally-driven community engagement. The Boyne Valley Community Greenhouse received $10,000 to expand to offer a community space with a classroom and commercial kitchen for teaching people how to cook, preserve, and store their local harvest. Details on all of the county grants.

School board moves ahead on $24M bond issue

By Jamie Baumann, jamie@boynecitizen.com

The Boyne City Public Schools Board of Education unanimously voted on Monday to authorize Superintendent Patrick Little to develop ballot language and other legal documents for a capital improvement bond not to exceed $24 million to be put on the ballot in May 2025.

Over the past few meetings, the board has wrestled with how to cut from the original list of needs and improvements of $38M, whittled to  $31M, then down to the $24M, the amount that would not alter the millage already paid by school district voters. 

The board had previously narrowed their choices to two different options. Both options include renovation in the elementary school, middle school, and athletic complex buildings as well as the middle school athletic field. They also include technology for students and staff, two busses and bus bay heaters, as well as a visual alert system and wayfinding maps to enhance safety. They both include a Career and Technical Education (CTE) building and improvements to the high school auditorium. They also include renovation in the Boyne City Education Center to the Morgan Shaw High School restrooms, hallways and exits. The total estimated cost for the renovations, technology, safety improvements and the additional CTE building is $18.8M.

The key difference between Option 1 and Option 2 is that Option 1 includes a four-classroom addition to the elementary school and Option 2 includes artificial turf on the high school athletic field, a multi-purpose building including team rooms, bathrooms and concession stand, and an athletic complex video scoreboard. Either option brings the total cost to about $24M. 

After a motion to support Option 2 was defeated, the board voted unanimously to support Option 1, prioritizing equity to the elementary school and supporting academics over the improvements in the athletic complex. 

Local realtor and landlord Chris Christensen and local business owner and landlord Cindy Bannon spoke in public comments asking the board to consider cutting back the $24M amount to reduce the property tax millage to the voters. They each referred to hard economic times right now and asked the board to consider some taxpayer relief. 

Christensen questioned why the CTE building wasn't paid for with the millage that Char-Em Intermediate School District (ISD) had passed for CTE programs. 

Little clarified for the board that the CTE monies from the ISD cannot be used for brick and mortar construction. It helps defray the cost of CTE teachers and aides, as well as helps pay for the materials that the CTE programs need, since these program materials are more expensive than regular academic classroom materials. The CTE programs in Char-Em ISD are spread out among the various local districts and it is the local districts’ responsibility to house them.  

An advantage of having a CTE building that would house building trades, for example, is that the students could get more hands-on experience by practicing building a roof on a model or doing plumbing while in the classroom than they can get working only on the one house per year that the program builds. 

Having the CTE building connected to the high school complex also will increase instructional time for all the programs, because students wouldn't have to be bussed to another site for their classes. 

The board discussed possibly going for a lower millage, but in the end decided the need was great enough for all the projects in Option 1 to maintain the $24M millage target figure. The final decision on ballot wording and millage amount will be made at the December 9 meeting.

In other action, the school board:

• Authorized Little to seek legal advice about a property issue. 
• Approved the 2025 meeting schedule. 
• Accepted donations from Rebecca Plaine for the tennis program and from Glen LaCroix and family and from Michelle Seelye for the volleyball program.
• Accepted a $5,930 donation supporting a holiday event, physics trip to Cedar Point, virtual reality headsets for the middle school elective, soccer equipment and laser kits for the elementary school Science Technology Engineering and Math (STEM) course.
• Accepted a donation from Chris Faulknor for the band program and acknowledged the letter that he wrote about why the band program was so important to him when he was in middle school.  To read the letter, click here. 

Ramblers win first district title since 2014, will face Reed City Friday in regional

Boyne City won its first football district championship since 2014 on Friday, and you can cheer on the team when the Ramblers parade through downtown starting at 2 p.m. that day. Those who want to attend the 7 p.m. game in Reed City must purchase tickets online for $9.

There is no cash or credit card ticket purchase option at the gate - all tickets must be purchased ahead of time. Gates open at 5:30 p.m., and the school address is Reed City High School, 225 W. Church Street Reed City, MI 49677. Artificial noise-makers (cowbells, airhorns, thundersticks, etc.) are prohibited at this level of play. The game will be streamed live here.

Boyne City’s remarkable 21-15 win over Kingsley on Friday night marked their first District title since 2014 and ended the reign of the defending Division 6 state champions. The victory was especially significant, as it handed Kingsley their first playoff loss at Rodes Field, a fortress for the team since its construction. Details on the Ramblers’ victory.

The Ramblers' road trip will continue as they head out to face the Reed City Coyotes at 7 p.m. Friday. Boyne City's defense has only allowed 14.8 points per game this season, so Reed City's offense will have their work cut out for them.

Realtors weigh in on changes in the local housing market: High prices, high interest rates

By Jamie Baumann, jamie@boynecitizen.com

Local realtors agree that high home prices plus high interest rates have chilled the Boyne area real estate market while pricing local first-time home buyers out of the market.

Lynda Christensen of Lynda's Real Estate Service said that the prices have certainly had an effect on all local buyers, because the incomes in Boyne City don't support the home prices. As a result, she is seeing many more buyers coming from out of the area who are paying cash.

Pat O'Brien of Pat O'Brien and Associates Real Estate said inventory is low, because people who own their homes and are looking to upgrade or downsize probably have a 3% interest rate on their mortgages. It makes them think twice about making a move, when the interest rates are 6.5%. He pointed out that since COVID the whole market has changed. "That is when prices made big jumps, 30% in some areas of the market. "

O'Brien did a study of waterfront sales for the first three-quarters of 2024. "They were a full 50% down from a year ago. I have never seen such a quickly changing market in 35 years in this business."

Wally Kidd of Kidd and Leavy Real Estate agreed that higher interest rates and home prices have resulted in a "historically low inventory" of homes for sale. "Nationally, the median price of buying a home has risen sharply to $435,000, up almost 40% from 2020. Here in our area - Antrim, Charlevoix and Emmet counties - the median price of a home is $390,500, up from $355,000 in 2023."

Kidd said, "The higher rates and higher home prices require that buyers have more income. Recent levels of inflation haven’t helped, so they are having to stay put, whether they like it or not. This has created a bit of a ‘Catch 22’ in the market's ability to grow inventory."

He agreed with Christensen that "there is clearly a greater influx of out-of-the-area buyers putting additional pressure on the available inventory for our local clientele."

Kidd said that "Waterfront inventory - Walloon, Lake Charlevoix, etc. - is feeling some of the same historically low levels as well. The only difference here is that almost all sales are cash and don’t involve a mortgage. It used to be, before COVID, you could get on Walloon for around $1 million. Today it is closer to $1.8M plus or minus. There are currently no properties for sale under $3.25M and from there it jumps to a high of $18M."

Jennifer Burr from Coldwell Banker/Schmidt Realtors said that they have more inventory with a longer shelf life now than they have had in recent years. Burr said, “In our opinion certain pockets have cooled off or have done a market correction, but there are some pockets of the northern Michigan region that actually have increased, but by less than 10%, which is much smaller gains than what we were seeing in the boom from 2020 to late 2022."

O'Brien's study concurred that prices have cooled in the past year after the big increase following COVID. He said that the overall average price for all homes in Charlevoix County including waterfront, condos, and in-town homes has been $596,000, which is down from $687,000 in 2023. He and Christensen agree that in the city of Boyne City, the average sales price is in the $300,000 to $325,000 range.

Burr said that all types of properties are selling well, as long as they are in good shape and priced right. She didn't see a big difference from past years. She reported the median area prices as: Boyne City $374,000, Boyne Falls $420,000, Petoskey $472,000, East Jordan $331,950, Charlevoix $414,500, Mancelona $184,500 and Harbor Springs $675,000.

Burr said that there are fewer first-time home buyers than before. There used to be about 40% first-time buyers. Now about 25% are first-time buyers. The rest of the sales are made up of investors or homeowners interested in downsizing or upgrading.

"We are starting to see some of the properties that were purchased as short-term rentals actually come back on the market - typically in better shape," Burr said. "We are starting to see that buyers also have accepted that these are the new interest rates, and that they are here to stay awhile. Sellers are still realizing they are putting more money in their pockets selling than they ever have before."

Mallory O'Brien from Pat O'Brien and Associates commented: "Home prices have reached a plateau. Comps in a low inventory market support the value of our confident sellers who often refer to the 2022-23 marketplace to gauge their property value. The reach back is due to the lack of inventory in 2024 to compare to. Listing performance is measured by days on the market, number of showings, and the strength of offers. Today we are seeing an increase in price reductions, days on the market, and sale prices well below listing prices."

Boyne Mountain’s winter lineup includes powder, parties and more for 2024/25

Whether visiting for the skiing, the lights, or the apres-ski fun, Boyne Mountain’s winter lineup promises unforgettable entertainment from dawn till dusk. For the 2024/25 winter season, a range of upgrades and new experiences have been added to elevate the guest experience. From increased snowmaking power ensuring optimal conditions, to the much-anticipated return of “Lights in the Sky” on SkyBridge Michigan, there’s plenty to get excited about. Adventurers can enjoy enhanced glade skiing, a revitalized Team Boyne racing program, and reservable cabanas at Avalanche Bay. Plus, new craft beverage collaborations and direct-to-tech rental equipment streamline the fun, making Boyne Mountain the ultimate winter destination for skiers and families alike. Special events and activities throughout the season round out a memorable winter experience.

More Snowmaking Power and the Victor Glacier

Boyne Mountain is upgrading its snowmaking capabilities with the addition of eight new SMI full-auto Super PoleCat snow guns, six of which will be dedicated to the Victor slope. This investment allows the resort to kick off the ski season earlier and extend it well into the spring. Inspired by Vermont’s legendary King of Spring, Boyne Mountain is creating the "Victor Glacier," with its newly added firepower ensuring late season turns on this signature blue run beloved by the resort’s most dedicated skiers and riders. The remaining two PoleCats are being installed on the resort’s Tubing Hill, aiming to have the all-thrills, family-friendly attraction ready before the holiday season. New this winter, visitors to the Tubing Hill can also enjoy sliding to the beat with synchronized music and vibrant LED lighting displays. The resort has also reclaimed more than 60 Boyne Low-E snow guns for deployment across the slopes to continuously refresh surface conditions providing optimal skiing throughout the season.

Lights in the Sky Returns on SkyBridge Michigan

Returning for its second year, the Lights in the Sky display promises to be bigger, brighter, and more dazzling. Illuminating SkyBridge Michigan with a stunning array of lights, this immersive experience captivates visitors and bridge walkers of all ages and serves as the perfect way to enjoy the holidays and beyond. Available from November 1, 2024, through April 30, 2025, Lights in the Sky features over 100,000 twinkling lights strewn across the world’s longest timber-towered suspension bridge. SkyBridge Michigan is a 1,200-foot long, 118-foot high pedestrian bridge positioned between two peaks, McLouth and Disciples Ridge, overlooking Boyne Valley. Rounding out the experience, guests can also enjoy hot drinks, Polish food, the ambiance of an outdoor gas fire, and more. Tickets include a chairlift ride, plus unlimited day and evening bridge crossings. Resort lodging guests receive $5 off per ticket, and all visitors can buy online in advance to save on tickets and go directly to the lift. To purchase tickets, visit boynemountain.com.

Click here for the full story, including:

• Enhanced glade skiing within Disciples Ridge
• Introducing Team Boyne ski training for young athletes
• New Cabana Coves at Avalanche Bay
• Craft beverage collaborations
• Direct-to-Tech rental equipment
• Special events including Dec. 14 -15 Holiday Open House

John McLeod, at left, comments after his induction. At right, he poses with wife Josette, who surprised him by showing up for the ceremony.

Classic Instruments’ Director John McLeod inducted into Hot Rod Industry Hall of Fame

Classic Instruments is proud to announce that its director, John McLeod, was recently inducted into The Hot Rod Industry Alliance Hall of Fame. John was inducted during the company’s trip to the annual SEMA, Specialty Equipment Manufacturers Association, show in Las Vegas, Nevada. 

The HRIA contacted John’s wife Josette, quietly without John’s knowledge, to attend the induction. John credited her the most for his success in the industry.“ Being inducted into the HRIA Hall of Fame is an honor I cannot explain,” McLeod said. “Looking at the list of people in the Hall of Fame before me humbles me beyond words. I would like to thank HRIA/SEMA for all they have done for me and would also like to thank my family, employees, friends, and all our amazing customers.”

In presenting the award, HRIA officials noted that “John has contributed immensely to furthering the hot rod industry through many new product innovations and support of various organizations that exist to build the industry. He has served on the board for the HRIA and held various other board positions in the past. John continually motivates and provides his company resources to help build on the industry’s presence and has contributed through multiple channels to help get youth involved in the industry.” 

In addition to his time spent furthering the hot rod industry, McLeod also serves as a Boyne City Police officer. He believes in giving back locally and also helping to further his local community.

Classic Instruments was started in 1977 and offers a full line of catalog order instrumentation for a wide range of Ford and Chevy model cars and pick-up trucks, plus over 100 universal fit Instruments.

4th graders visit Veterans Memorial

All fourth-grade students from Boyne City Elementary School visited the Veterans Memorial at Veterans Park on Wednesday. ABOVE, Ron Crozier tells Roger Coates’ students about the memorial, which honors veterans who have died in service to their country while fighting in wars ranging from the Civil War to more recent conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. BELOW, Jen Spate has her students pose around a memorial to Jack Diener II, one of Spate’s former students, who graduated from Boyne City High School in 2009. Diener died Nov. 21, 2011, in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, after insurgents attacked his unit with small arms fire.

The full cast of Boyne Meets Broadway.

Boyne Meets Broadway Thursday thru Saturday

Boyne Meets Broadway tickets are on sale for performances at 7 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, Nov. 14, 15 and 16 in the Performing Arts Center at Bone City High School. Tickets are $10 for all seats, which are available from cast members, from the high school office M-F 8 a.m.-4 p.m., and at the door starting at 6 p.m. each evening (until sold out). 

Boyne Meets Broadway is a variety show style performance involving about 50 high school students - 43 on stage and 7 stage crew. Students will be performing numbers from Wicked, 9 to 5, Grease, Hairspray, Shucked, Annie, Waitress, Band Stand, Newsies and many more. Directors are Michael and Jen Houser, Erin and Stephen Zucker, Charles Garson and Taylor Swaim.

The pre-show dinner offered through the BCHS Hospitality Department on Friday is sold out. The BCHS Jazz Band will perform during Friday's dinner, as well as a small group of BC Middle School Drama students. The Jazz Band will also perform before the Saturday, Nov. 16, show starting at 6 p.m. No ticket is needed to listen to the jazz band that night.

Boyne Meets Broadway started in 1993 as a dinner theater collaboration between the BCHS Drama Department and Stafford's One Water Street restaurant in downtown Boyne City. Students performed around the dining room tables as patrons enjoyed a multi-course meal. BMB was also performed at Boyne Mountain for a couple of years and then found its current home in our high school starting in 2005. 

A STAR RETURNS - Former BCHS Drama Department star William Raveau will be performing at the high school performing Arts Center at 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 30. William is back performing in his hometown for the first time since 2019, and he will be backed by local pianist Phil McLellan. You can purchase tickets online for $25 or $35. High school students can buy tickets for $15, one ticket per student ID. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the BCHS Drama Department.

Shoppers get better deals when they wear their pajamas, so this is a scene that will be common all over downtown on Saturday, Nov. 23.

Main Street kicks off holiday season with Earlier Than The Bird on Nov. 23

Boyne City Main Street is planning a trio of Christmas season events with shopping and the annual Santa Parade as the holiday focus.

EARLIER THAN THE BIRD gets the holiday season started early in the morning of November 23, the Saturday before Thanksgiving. Downtown stores have special offers for shoppers dressed in their pajamas (sweats don’t count!) from 7 to 11 a.m. 

Some stores give bigger discounts the earlier you shop, which means people line up to get in the stores - in the dark, in the cold before they open! Most downtown stores and some restaurants participate, but the Main Street website and Facebook page will list all the details.

Main Street will conduct their annual Earlier Than the Bird mug give-away in the alley-way next to Indo China Gardens (the backside of the Main Street office) as in the past. “We will open that window at 7 a.m. and give away mugs until we run out,” said Main Street Executive Director Ingrid Day.

Friends of The Boyne District Library will be holding their annual Big Book Sale during Earlier Than The Bird from 8 a.m. to 12 noon Saturday, Nov. 23. Fill a bag for a $5 minimum donation. The sale is held in the lower level Community Room of the Boyne District Library. The Friends volunteer their efforts to collect, organize, and sell donated books. Their dedication goes a long way in making our library what it is. This includes partially funding the recent complete remodeling and updating of the children's area. 

HOLLY JOLLY BOYNE - All decked out with holiday lights and decorations, Main Street says “our downtown sparkles” for this family fun event held November 29, the Friday evening after Thanksgiving. Businesses stay open and provide refreshments, and the annual Santa Parade begins at 6 p.m. Follow Santa as he makes his way to the tree lighting at Sunset Park, and then to the Boyne City Eagles for hot chocolate and cookies as Santa visits with the children.

SIP & SHOP HOLIDAY BAZAAR is held a week later from 5 to 9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6, hosted by the Boyne City Farmers Market at Veterans Park Pavilion. Shop for unique gifts, including artwork, crafts, artisan foods and wine, in this third annual holiday event. Local wineries will be on hand to add some cheer while talented local musicians will keep your feet tapping throughout the evening.

It’s National Community Foundation Week

Charlevoix County Community Foundation (C3F) is joining in the nationwide celebration of National Community Foundation Week, November 12-18, to recognize the increasingly important role that community foundations play in strengthening Northern Michigan communities.

C3F President Sara Ward said, “Community foundations are at the heart of local philanthropy, serving as a bridge between donors and the causes they care about. By pooling resources and expertise, these foundations tackle pressing issues such as education, healthcare, economic development, housing, childcare, the arts, youth, and environmental sustainability. During this week, we invite you to reflect on the lasting impact that collective philanthropy can have on the places we call home.”

The Charlevoix County Community Foundation has over 30 years of experience and expertise in addressing local needs. Working both independently and in partnership with one another, community foundations focus resources on the issues that matter most, having a positive impact on the lives of our friends and neighbors right here in Northern Michigan. Through thoughtful grant making to area nonprofits, schools, and municipalities, as well as strategic partnerships across sectors, C3F is consistently working to improve life for all in our county. Community foundations stand as a powerful reminder of the strength that builds when individuals come together to invest in the well-being of our community. 

To find out more about Charlevoix County Community Foundation, visit their website at www.c3f.org.

Kiwanis plan 14th annual Turkey Trot 5k and 1-mile fun run

Kiwanis Boyne City Turkey Trot will be holding its 14th annual 5K and one-mile fun run at 9 a.m. Thanksgiving morning, starting and ending in Veterans Park. 

Entry forms are available at the Boyne Area Chamber and the Boyne City Police Department, or you can register online here. Awards will be recognized in 10-year age group categories. Individual entry is $30 in advance or $35 on the day of the event. Those who register in advance receive a long-sleeved souvenir T-shirt. Packet pick-up is held from 4-6 p.m. Nov. 27, the day before the event at the Veterans Park Pavilion.

Railroad display coming to Heritage Center Saturday

The Boyne Heritage Center is partnering with the Kalamazoo Model Railroad Historical Society for an event in Boyne City on Saturday, Nov. 16. The railroad group is the current owner and restorer of Caboose 802 from the Boyne City, Gaylord, & Alpena railroad (pictured mid-restoration). They will be bringing up a model railroad layout and giving a presentation on their work restoring the caboose. 

The event is split into two sections: the model railroad layout and the Heritage Center exhibits will be free admission from 12-2 p.m., although both the Heritage Center and Kalamazoo MRHS appreciate donations to support their work. Paid admission ($10 for adults and free for children 12 and under) will be required for the historic presentations afterwards about the KMRHS caboose restoration efforts. There will be three presentations starting at 2 p.m. Meet us from 12-4 in the Commission Chambers in City Hall to see the trains and history for yourself.

Peninsula Park Event Center is ready to host

Stephanie Carter and Jill Valliere have transformed the former Friggy's space into an event center for people to rent for public or private events. The space is called Peninsula Park Event Center and is located at 5 W Main Street, Boyne City.

The first event in the space was held Saturday, Nov 9, a Paint & Sip with Dan Duncan, which was a fundraising event for the Boyne Area Skate Park.

The next event is “Kick the Dust Up,” a night of line dancing with Natasha Rosenthal from 7-10 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 16. All skill levels are welcome. Stephanie Carter noted that this coincides with the beginning of deer season: “While your loved ones are out hunting, bring your friends for a fun night of boot-scootin'.” 

There will be a vendor onsite selling mock-tails and snacks. Tickets are $10 in advance or $15 at the door - call 231-881-5192 or email peninsulaparkevents@gmail.com. Rosenthal will also be hosting another line dancing night on Saturday, Dec. 14, and two paint & sip events are planned for Nov. 30. Check their Facebook page for updates.

LEARN MORE - Team Boyne, the entrepreneur support committee of Boyne City Main Street, will be holding its monthly meeting at Peninsula Park Event Center from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Friday, Nov. 15. The public is welcome to attend.

O’Brien Real Estate agents donate to Dress For Chill again

The agents at Pat O’Brien and Associates Real Estate have donated $6,500 to Eta Nu Sorority for the Dress for Chill program that provides winter outerwear for more than 200 local children. "We love Dress For Chill, and we donate every year," Pat O'Brien said.

All of the agents donate 1% of their commissions to a nonprofit fund, and donations are made quarterly. Here is an extensive list of the organizations that have received donations from the O’Brien agents over the past 14 years. 

If you would like to contribute to the Dress For Chill fund, you can donate online here. Checks may be made out to Boyne Eta Nu Charities/Dress for Chill and can be sent to: P.O. Box 133, Boyne City, MI 49712.

Hemingway sculpture project continues fundraising

The Friends of Ernest Hemingway in Horton Bay has gathered over $18,000, one-third of the way to their goal to create a life-size bronze sculpture of young Ernest Hemingway.

This has allowed the first payment of $6,000 to be sent to the Michigan Art Casting Company, which created the base for the enlargement and has now moved the sculpture to Grand Rapids to the studio of Issac Dell, who is handling the texturing of the enlargement. 

The $55,000 project is led by Robin Lee Berry and Tony Williams, proprietors of Boyne City’s Freshwater Art Gallery and Concert Venue.

Thanks to a generous donation from Megan and Matt Thatcher, owners of The Walloon Watershed, a new upscale bar in Walloon Lake village, organizers will now be able to make the second payment of $11,000 for making the enlargement. Walloon Watershed features a bronze Hemingway bust, also a creation of Martha Sulfridge. 

The next step, after approving the enlarged rendition of The Young Boy and the Stream, will be to pay $10,000 to Michigan Art Castings before Christmas to begin the bronzing process. 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.

Hunters asked to donate venison to Manna Food Project

Manna Food Project and Petoskey Sunrise Rotary are asking hunters to “Please consider helping those less fortunate by donating as little as one pound of venison from your harvest. Donate an entire deer, and we will pay for the processing.”

It’s called the Venison for Manna Project, and since the program's inception, generous hunters have donated over 10 tons of venison. The Manna Food Project provides food to over 35 area food pantries, including the Good Neighbors Food Pantry in Boyne City.

All donations must be made through a participating processor, including Ida's Kitchen, 3473 Penfold Road, Boyne Falls, phone 231-549-2098.

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Pictured here is Jefferson T. Bradley, his team and dray. The location appears to be in North Boyne, but this has never been confirmed. Notice that the dray appears to be bogged down in sand. The story behind the photograph is unfortunately unknown to me. Photo courtesy of the Woody & Marie (Coon) Everest Collection.

THROUGH THE HISTORIAN'S LENS

The naming of Jefferson Street

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!

If you’re like me, your personal knowledge of the geography of Boyne City is based mostly on its streets, yet you may have never given their names a second thought. Connecting local street names to the history and geography of Boyne City is a key factor in understanding Boyne City’s growth from Village to Town and eventually to City. When we include and connect the stories along with our mental map of the streets that we walk and drive on every day, it allows us to see our own neighborhood and city in an entirely new light. 

In the earliest days, streets tended to be named for landmarks, like Church or Market. In Boyne City, Court Street in North Boyne is an obvious example of this trend. Court Street, being chosen by those who at the time felt that it would eventually be the location of the new Charlevoix County seat and the county courthouse. 

In the coming months, I am going to elaborate on the origins of our city street names - introducing you to those within our early community who they were named after. We will begin our travels with Jefferson Street. 

Boyne also has its “presidential streets-“ Adams, Grant, Lincoln, McKinley, Roosevelt, and Taylor. (Don’t throw Jefferson in there quite yet.) It was quite common for streets to be named for symbols of power and authority, or with the names of heroes and leaders like Washington and Jefferson. As a result, many simply assume that Boyne City’s Jefferson Street was named in just this way, after President Thomas Jefferson. In this case however, they would be mistaken. 

JEFFERSON THOMAS BRADLEY (1861-1945)

Jefferson Thomas Bradley was born in Elk Township, Sanilac County, Michigan on August 31, 1861, the son of John S. and Emeline (Phillips) Bradley. He married Margaret M. “Maggie” McCarty and had seven children, the six surviving are listed below. Notice the surnames associated with the children - some of Boyne City’s most prolific families claim membership as descendants of Jefferson and Maggie Bradley. 

• Mary E. Bradley (1885-1968) married Rolvin Coon
• James E. Bradley (1888-1976) married Hilda M. Hausler
• Ervin N. Bradley (1891-1966) married Mable Earl
• Anna Bradley (1893-1987) married Leon C. Pratt
• Hazel Bradley(1896-1902) married Paul C. King, Sr. 
• Cora Bradley (1900-1988) married Ralph Hocquard

The Bradley family settled in Boyne City sometime prior to 1910. For many years they resided in a home on State Street, but toward the end of his life, Jefferson and his wife appear to have made their home on North Lake Street. 

 Mr. Bradley began his career as a drayman. He and his teams of horses and mules pulled a low, flat-bed wagon without sides, which was used to transport all types of goods. Local merchants used his services to haul containers and building materials from the shipping docks and railway ramps to their business and home locations. Once crates and containers were unloaded, Mr. Bradley was then called upon again to return the empty containers to docks railway yards. 

At some point along the way, “Jeff Bradley” began working for the County Road Commission. It seems logical to assume that his work centered around hauling materials from one location to another during the building of Boyne City’s streets, roads and sidewalks. Perhaps this is what brought him to mind as a name for Jefferson Street was being decided upon. 

Jefferson passed away on February 5, 1945, in Boyne City. He was a prominent citizen in his own right - an honest and hardworking man who left an impression on those who knew him in his day. He should also be forever remembered as the man who Boyne City’s Jefferson Street is named after. 

> 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.

Boyne Area News Briefs

MAIN STREET BOARD - Have you ever considered working with like-minded people to serve your community and downtown area? We have the opportunity you have been looking for! Boyne City Main Street will have seats on the Board of Directors available for four-year terms that begin February, 2025. Your commitment will involve monthly board and committee meetings and taking the time to become familiar with our purpose and activities. Interested? Please fill out this application and either drop us a hard copy (113 S. Lake) or email to mainstreet@boynecity.com. The application deadline is January 10, 2025. For questions, please call 231-582-9009.

HOLIDAY CRAFT SHOW - The Boyne City Booster Foundation is planning its 45th annual Holiday Craft Show from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7 at Boyne City High School. Admission is free, although donations are accepted. Refreshments are available and hourly drawings will be held for $20 Boyne Bucks giveaways. This annual event raises funds for the Boyne City Booster Foundation, supporting the arts, athletics, and academics.

HOLIDAY POP-UP SHOP - A Made in Boyne Holiday Pop-Up Shop will launch from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, November 29th, at 230 Water St., across from the Boyne River Inn in downtown Boyne City. Made in Boyne owner Maya Jones said the pop-up shop is open to vendors who would like to sell on commission of 30%, or for a flat fee. They prefer vendors who make clothing, bags, accessories, paintings, trinkets, home goods, or native art. Jones describes Made in Boyne as a family business that specializes in hand crafting one-of-a-kind clothing and unique fashionable items. Made in Boyne also offers the services of up-cycling fashion, consignment, and clothing alterations.

SLEIGH RIDES - Northern Michigan Equine Therapy will be offering sleigh rides to “the North Pole” as their annual fund-raiser on Sunday, Dec. 8. Take a sleigh ride to the North Pole on a horse-drawn sleigh to meet Santa and enjoy hot cocoa, cookies and crafts at Santa's Workshop. Meet their friendly therapy horses, NMET staff and volunteers. Proceeds support therapy scholarships. Sleigh rides are every half hour from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and require reservations. Please email nmequine@gmail.com with questions.

FOOD PANTRY 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 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.

City of Boyne City Municipal News

Leaders convene at business event

The Regional Small Business Outlook event in Petoskey on Nov. 8 brought together a number of government officials and business leaders including, from left, State Representative-elect Parker Fairbairn, Boyne City Mayor Tim Nemecek, and Dakota Baker, deputy chief of staff for State Senator John Damoose. The Business Outlook event was organized by the Northern Lakes Economic Alliance, Petoskey Regional Chamber of Commerce, and Charlevoix Area Chamber of Commerce.

OPEN POSITION - POLICE OFFICER - The City of Boyne City is seeking qualified applicants for a community minded and team-oriented Police Officer. $9,000 signing bonus to certified officer with experience. Paid at the end of 12 months of service. Comprehensive wage and benefit package. Submit letter of interest and resume to: Kevin Spate, Chief of Police, kspate@boynecity.com. Position details.

CITY TRUCKS FOR SALE

> 2012 Ford F-350 SD / 6.2 Litre V8 OHD With Stainless Steel Dump Box & Straight Plow. Truck runs and drives with no known major mechanical issues. The City decommissioned the vehicle as it was replaced. Sold as is. Mileage: 107,576. Active bidding can be found here. : https://www.govdeals.com/asset/13/19767

> 2004 International 7400 / 7.6 Litre L6 Diesel. Truck runs with no known major mechanical issues. The City has decommissioned the vehicle since it's been replaced. Sold as is. Active bidding here.

NORTH BOYNE HOUSING PROJECT - Invitation to Submit Proposals & Request for Qualifications. The City of Boyne City, seeks a development partner for a city-owned property at 508 Court Street. The 10-acre vacant parcel provides a unique opportunity for a flexible mix of housing types. 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 property is accessed by a public paved street and is adjacent to City sewer and water mains that have sufficient capacity to serve a build-out of the site. The City also has the 3-acre community garden parcel nearby that will become available for development next year. For more information about this property, please contact: Michael Cain, City Manager, mcain@boynecity.com. 231-582-0377. Proposal Submissions Due By: January 1, 2025. Full RFQ.

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. 

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
• Economic Development Corporation (EDC) / Local Development Finance Authority (LDFA) - 1 seat 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.

> Parks and Recreation Commission - Thursday, November 14, 5 p.m.

> Planning Commission, Monday, November 18, 5:30 p.m.

> City Commission next meeting is at 12 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 26.

Boyne officials visit Frankfort

Several officials from Boyne City spent the day visiting Frankfort on October 30 to learn about what that community has done to encourage affordable housing. Pictured here, from left, are City Commissioner Bob Farrell, Commissioner Sandy Pritchard, Mayor Tim Nemecek, and Northern Homes Executive Director Jane MacKenzie, and Jay White, president of the Frankfort Area Community Land Trust, which built four homes. The group also toured the nearly completed Lake and Main Apartments. (Photo by Boyne City Manager Mike Cain.)

Obituaries

Kathleen "Kay" Patricia (Sweet) Peck

May 14, 1931 ~ November 11, 2024 (age 93)

Michael J. Smith

May 10, 1965 ~ November 9, 2024 (age 59)

Marilyn Joyce (Treter) Brong

April 12, 1951 ~ November 8, 2024 (age 73)

Diana May (Petrowski) Barnadyn

March 12, 1950 ~ November 5, 2024 (age 74)

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

MUSIC, ARTS, AND ENTERTAINMENT

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

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

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

Mondays - Sean Bielby

Tuesdays - Lara Fullford

Wednesdays - Pete Kehoe

Thursdays - Trivia & music by Holly Keller

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

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

> LIVE MUSIC

Saturday, Nov. 16 - Shuvlhed 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. Indoors in the pavilion at Veterans Park, 207 N. Lake Street, Boyne City. (231) 582-9009.

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

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

> MY CLUE TRIVIA - Mondays

> SINGO BINGO - Tuesdays

> LIVE MUSIC 7 p.m.

Thursdays - Adam and the Cabana Boys

Fridays - Patrick Ryan and Josh Raber

> THANKSGIVING WEEK SCHEDULE CHANGES:

Tuesday, Nov. 26 - Singo Bingo

Wednesday, Nov. 27 - Adam and the Cabana Boys

Thursday, Nov. 28 - Closed for Thanksgiving Day

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 - Saturdays 2-6 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 16 - Chris Calleja

Saturday, Nov. 23 - Michelle Chenard

Saturday, Nov. 30 - Chris Calleja

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

> LIVE MUSIC- Mondays 6-9 p.m., The Shifties.

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.

DOWNTOWN BOYNE CITY - Boyne City Main Street

> Earlier Than The Bird - Saturday, Nov. 23, 7 to 11 a.m. To get the best start on the holidays, downtown Boyne City hosts an early morning shopping event – special offers for those shopping in their pajamas – the Saturday before Thanksgiving.

> Holly Jolly Boyne - Friday, Nov. 29 - 5 to 9 p.m. Businesses are open and many serve refreshments. The Santa Parade starts at 6 p.m. Follow Santa as he makes his way to the tree lighting at Sunset Park, and then to the Boyne City Eagles Hall for hot chocolate and cookies.

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

> LIVE MUSIC - 8 p.m. Call to reserve tickets.

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

Saturday, Dec. 28 - Thornetta Davis

Sunday, Dec. 29 - Larry McCray

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

Dance and choral concerts in November.

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

> TRIVIA NIGHT - Wednesdays at 7 p.m.

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

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

> LIVE MUSIC 8 to 11 p.m.

Friday, 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, 6-8 p.m.

Tuesday, Nov. 19 - Sean Bielby

Tuesday, Nov. 26 - Kevin Johnson

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

LIVE MUSIC 6-9 p.m.

Tuesday, Nov. 19 - Significant Others

Tuesday, Nov. 26 - Project 6

Wednesday, Nov. 27 - Thanksgiving Eve Party - Dave Cisco

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

> Do you miss Friggys? A place for locals and service industry friends to gather? Well, starting Thursday November 14th from 9pm to midnight, allow us to introduce… STIGGYS NIGHT! Come down to Stiggs Brewery & Kitchen for $3 Stiggs Mainstays, late night food, and music by Lee Michael Blossom. 

> First Wednesday of the month - Open Mic Nights hosted by Nelson Olstrom, 6-9 p.m.

WALLOON LAKE VILLAGE. M75 just south of US 131.

> Annual Village Lighting Ceremony - Wednesday, Nov. 27, 5 to 8 p.m. in the Village of Walloon - indoors and outdoors. Scavenger hunt with prizes, pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus, live reindeer, the Petoskey Steel Drum Band. Details on Facebook.

The Boyne Citizen

Email: jim@boynecitizen.com

Phone: 231-459-4166

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