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Sewer construction
Team Elmer's crews were working on Lincoln Street and other locations around Boyne City on Wednesday. What's it all about? See our story below for details on all of this construction.
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Inside this issue
- Pilots and Airport Advisory Board air complaints
- City replaces aging sewer and water infrastructure
- Stroll the Streets and Gazebo concert performers
- Best 4th in the North is just a week away
- School Board reviews budget with lots of unknowns
- Prosecutor lists convictions for criminal sexual conduct
- New reserve is named Chigidaaki: Place of the Big Hill
- Congressional delegation pushes for disaster declaration
- Guzniczak replaces Sorenson as Wilson Twp. supervisor
- Patrick McCleary history: early physician Dr. Tew
- News briefs, Obituaries, and Municipal News
- Thanks to the donors who keep the news coming!
- Music and entertainment listings
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Airport hangar rental fees were increased 30% this year.
Pilots and Airport Advisory Board air complaints to City Commission
By Jim Baumann, jim@boynecitizen.com
Several local pilots and Airport Advisory Board members attended the Boyne City Commission meeting Tuesday to express their unhappiness about a recent 30% increase in hangar rents and other issues.
Rod Cortright, a member of the Airport Advisory Board for more than 25 years, said the board “has grown increasingly concerned that the City of Boyne City no longer fully recognizes the value of the municipal airport to the community. Specifically, the board feels its recommendations regarding necessary maintenance and other airport issues are no longer being taken seriously by city leadership.”
“While often overlooked, the airport serves as an essential facility that supports local development, enhances connectivity, and is a vital component of Boyne City’s infrastructure,” Cortright said. “It enhances local businesses, attracts new investment, and hosts a variety of aviation-related services, including a flight school with certified instructors and a light aircraft maintenance facility.”
He said the airport was “crucial in securing funding for the development of the Industrial Park.”
The City Commission took note of the criticism and scheduled a joint meeting with the airport board at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, July 24, at City Hall.
Other pilots echoed Cortight’s feelings, including Richard Wright, the newly appointed interim airport manager, who said the hangar rent increases were “astronomically unjustifiable.”
An unsigned letter from the Airport Advisory Board to the City Commission was included under correspondence in this week’s City Commission agenda packet. That letter said:
“Historically, changes to hangar rental rates have been based on recommendations from the Airport Advisory Board and City Commission has adopted the suggested adjustments. In the past three years, the board recommended increases of 2.3%, 11.6%, and 4.1%, respectively. This year the board advised no change in rates. In spite of this, City Commission unilaterally imposed a 30% rental rate hike. This was never discussed with the Airport Advisory Board.”
That letter says that the new rate of a T-hanger is $325 per month plus a $10 monthly fee if tenants pay monthly rather than an annual lump sum. “It used to be that if you paid for the full year, you would receive two months’ rent at no charge. This significant and unexpected increase has made Boyne City’s airport an outlier among neighboring airports. Current T-hangar rental rates at nearby facilities are as follows:
- Charlevoix: $260/month
- Cheboygan: $140-$192/month (based on hangar size)
- Grayling: $125/month.
- Pellston: $260/month
- Harbor Springs: $300/month
- Gaylord: $300/month
The board letter said, “It is worth noting that all these airports have far superior facilities and are staffed during daytime hours.”
The board letter asks, “What do we get for our rent?” and goes on to point out that the snow removal policy was changed to be more burdensome to hangar tenants, trees on the airport approach paths need to be trimmed, and sections of the airport taxiways “were constructed 40 years ago and are now beyond repair.”
> Read the full letter from the Airport Advisory Board.
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City finds and replaces more aging sewer and water infrastructure
By Jim Baumann, jim@boynecitizen.com
Boyne City residents are aware that many local streets are being torn up this summer, and the City Commission on Tuesday approved several actions that are taking advantage of that fact. As long as the streets are being dug up for sewer pipes, the city will be examining and sometimes replacing aging and substandard water pipes at the same time.
It’s all part of a $12-million project to replace old sewer and water pipes and to expand that service to new areas that are now served by wells and septic tanks. That funding is coming from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), which is providing a 2% loan to make it possible, and it will all be paid for from users’ water and sewer fees.
As the streets are being dug up by Team Elmer’s, the city is finding more work needs to be done - and with this extra funding available they are taking advantage of it.
Doug Varney, director of public works & utilities, told the City Commission on Tuesday that Elmer’s has found at least 700 feet of what is known as AC, or asbestos cement pipes, which were installed 50 or more years ago. Because of their age and the fact that they contain asbestos, the city will be replacing them. And, as Varney pointed out, Elmer’s may find more as they proceed.
Varney’s memo to the commission in the meeting agenda says, “As part of the recently approved sewer expansion project in Boyne City, Team Elmer’s has begun installing 8-inch gravity sewer mains... During this work, it was confirmed that asbestos cement (AC) pipe exists along several of the streets now being excavated.”
As outlined in the Elmer’s contract awarded last November, the city has the option to replace this aging water infrastructure using “nonparticipating funds.” These expenses would be incurred only as needed and upon City Commission approval, Varney said. If all non-participating replacement costs are exercised, the total additional cost is estimated at $866,444.47, which has already been bid by the contractor and accepted by the city.
This funding is designated to extend water main to areas that are not currently served and upgrade any 4-inch water main that does not meet current fire suppression standards. “Given the known risk of failure associated with AC pipe due to its age and material composition, the city’s goal is to replace it entirely with High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) piping. Doing so now helps avoid future disruptions and costly road removals,” Varney said.
Varney pointed out that the city’s water and sewer funds have large cash balances that will easily cover these extra costs, if needed.
Also helping to offset these costs is a separate change order that reduces the overall cost of the project by $874,973.91.
Another change order was approved to conduct water service line investigations in coordination with the sewer expansion project. “There is now an ideal opportunity to further investigate water service line materials, particularly in areas where road surfaces are already being disturbed for sewer-related work,” Varney said in an agenda memo.
“Following discussions with our engineering consultants, city staff have identified this as a strategic time to continue investigating the gooseneck portion of water service lines - also referred to in the industry as pigtails. These are typically short segments of pipe located beneath the roadway, connecting the water main to the curb stop, and are often composed of lead.”
Due to their underground placement beneath streets, identifying these materials is challenging and normally requires “expensive potholing through paved surfaces.” However, with street surfaces already being opened for the sewer project, “this presents a cost-effective and minimally disruptive window to perform the investigation.”
A change order was approved to authorize the continuation of this work. The contractor formerly known as Team Monchilov, now operating as Team MEC, will identify 75 residential service lines in the areas of the city currently undergoing sewer expansion.
The total cost for this work is $43,800, which will be covered entirely by existing Drinking Water Asset Management grant funds and will not impact the city’s operating budget.
An informational meeting has been scheduled for 5:30 p.m. Monday, June 30, at City Hall in the second floor Commission Chambers to update the public on the Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) Project.
In other action Tuesday, the City Commission:
> Discussed an upcoming visit August 18-21 by some officials from Meath County in the Boyne Valley region of Ireland.
> Adopted the 2024 Charlevoix County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan, which is designed to “sit on a shelf” until a natural disaster such as a flood, ice storm, or tornado occurs, when it will then be implemented.
> Accepted Mayor Tim Nemecek’s recommendation to re-appoint Michael LeMay to a three year term on the Planning Commission, ending May 31, 2028.
> Agreed to executive mutual aid agreements with Emmet County EMS, Lake Charlevoix EMS, and Beaver Island EMS.
| | - > Note hat because the 4th of July falls on Friday, Stroll the Streets will be held on Thursday, July 3, next week.
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Members of the Boyne City 4th of July Committee are, from left, Rob Swartz, President Jessica White, Kristan Cotton, Cindy Bailiff, Laurie Leaman, Cathay Ecker, Keathy Leist, Annette Wilson, Scott MacKenzie, and Doug Varney. Missing from the photo are Dave West, Ann Parks, Chris Christensen, Haili DeYoung, Tammy Remsberg, and David Gross.
Best 4th in the North is just a week away
It’s almost time for the Boyne City 4th of July Festival, which has racked up an amazing number of national recognitions. Committee Chair Jessica White points out that the event has been recognized by Good Morning America and USA Today as one of the “Top 10 Independence Day Celebrations in the Nation,” it was the #2 “Best Small Town Fourth of July Celebrations in the USA” by the Travel Channel and last year was crowned the #1 “Best Small-Town July Fourth Fireworks” by Reader’s Digest.
And, White points out, the festival is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, “funded solely by generous donations and organized by a volunteer committee.” The two-day festival costs about $60,000 to put on, and the fireworks display over Lake Charlevoix accounts for nearly two-thirds of the projected annual budget. Donations, volunteers, and sponsors are always welcome, she said.
Here is the schedule, from the festival website.
THURSDAY JULY 3
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10am - 5pm: 50th Annual Waterside Art & Craft Fair + Food Trucks, Veterans Memorial Park
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Arts & Crafts Vendor Application
- Food Vendor Application
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10am - 6pm: Bounce Houses, Rock Wall & Water Slides: $20 Bracelet, Veterans Memorial Park
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4 - 6pm: Packet Pick-up for 49th Annual Independence Day Run, Peninsula Park
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Online Race Registration
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6-9pm: Stroll the Streets: Live bands and entertainment throughout Downtown Boyne City
FRIDAY, JULY 4
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6:30 - 7:30am: Packet Pick-up for 49th Annual Independence Day Run, Peninsula Park
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Online Registration
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7 - 10am: Independence Day Breakfast: $12 Adults, $8 Children 12 & Under, FOE Eagles Hall - 106 River St.
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7:30am: 49th Annual Independence week Day Run: Five- or two-mile run along beautiful Lake Charlevoix. Race starts and ends at Peninsula Park.
- Online Registration
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8:30am: Parade Registration & Line Up, Intersection of Franklin and Park Streets. Registration form.
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9 - 9:30am: Kids Decorated Bike Parade Lineup: Judging is at 9:30 am. 1st thru 3rd Place Ribbons awarded for ages 8 and under and 9-14. All participants receive a free Happy Meal coupon from Boyne City McDonald's. Early Education Building Playground on the corner of Main and Park Streets.
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9am - 5pm: Bounce Houses, Rock Wall & Water Slides: $20 Bracelet, Veterans Memorial Park
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9am - 12pm: Boyne Valley Garden Club Pie Sale: Assorted whole pies for $20, Veterans Memorial Park Pavilion. Visit www.boynevalleygardenclub.com to place your order by June 29.
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9:30am: Pre-Parade Entertainment by Boyne Area Gymnastics, Lake Street by the Log Cabin
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9:30am: Pre-Parade Entertainment by Lake Side Elite, Water Street
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9:55am: National Anthem performed by Asuka Barden, Lake Street in front of Log Cabin
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10am: GRAND PARADE, Downtown Boyne City. Here is the registration form.
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Grand Marshal: Denny Amesbury, Boyne City Volunteer Fire Chief
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Honored Citizens: Linemen of Great Lakes Energy & Consumers Energy
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10am - 5pm: 50th Annual Waterside Art & Craft Fair + Food Trucks, Veterans Memorial Park
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Arts & Crafts Vendor Application
- Food Vendor Application
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11am - 1pm: Boyne City Rotary "World Famous Chicken BBQ," $20 for half a chicken, baked beans, coleslaw, roll and a beverage, Veterans Memorial Park Pavilion. Pre-order here.
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12pm - 4pm: Patriotic Painting in the Park: Paint a giant interactive mural with Dan Duncan of Duncan Studios, Sunset Park
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12:30pm: Kiwanis/Family Fare Kids Pie Eating Contest, Veterans Memorial Park
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12:30 - 2:30pm: Old Fashioned Children's Games sponsored by Kiwanis of Boyne City, Veterans Memorial Park
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2pm: Boyne Area Chamber's 37th Annual Duck Race: Chances to win two each $500, one $250, one $100 and seven $50 prizes. Purchase $10 tickets at the Boyne Area Chamber of Commerce or Lynda's Real Estate. Boyne River
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Duck Race Information
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2:30 - 3pm: Jerry Froats Commemorative Raft Race: Rafts check-in by 2 pm at Riverside Park on Spring St. In an effort to keep our river clean and wildlife safe, we encourage spraying water, not balloons. Boyne River
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NEW this year: Two 1st place prizes for $50 each - Most Patriotic & Most Creative
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3 - 7pm: Live Music by Tom Zipp and the Bullpen Veterans Memorial Park
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10:30pm: GRAND FIREWORKS, Over Lake Charlevoix (Rain date July 5th)
REMINDERS:
- All city parks are tobacco, drug and weapon free.
- Dogs are not allowed in city parks during festivals and special events.
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Munson Charlevoix Hospital First Aid Tent is located by the old Chamber of Commerce log cabin.
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Handicap parking is available during the Parade on Park St. between Boyne City Hardware and Pat O'Brien Real Estate.
- The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the various parade entries do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs, and viewpoints of the Boyne City 4th of July Festival.
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Gazebo concerts continue on Wednesdays
“Evenings at the Gazebo” concerts are back. The Boyne Area Chamber’s free summer concert series on Wednesdays is returning to the Gazebo in Old City Park. The chamber has also reserved the Veterans Park Pavilion in case of rain, so the concerts can continue as scheduled. Guests are encouraged to bring a lawn chair or blanket, as well as food and drinks.
Here is the remaining summer schedule, with concerts held from 6:30 - 8 p.m.:
- July 2 - Nick Veine
- July 9 - Katherine Ryan
- July 16 - Pete Fetters
- July 23 - The Hazel James Band
- July 30 - Melissa & Jake
- August 6 - Dags Und Timmah
- August 13 - Billy McAllister
- August 20 - Delilah DeWilde
- August 27 - Laura Crowe
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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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School Board reviews budgets, but there are lots of unknowns
By Jamie Baumann, jamie@boynecitizen.com
In a special board meeting on Monday, the Boyne City School Board reviewed and adopted administrative recommendations for the 2024-2025 and 2025-2026 budgets.
Since salaries are still unknown because of ongoing negotiations, and the state hasn't settled on the final 2025-2026 budgets for schools including the per pupil dollar allotment, Boyne City's budgets are based upon best guesses and will be modified in the future as the financial picture becomes clearer.
"Without a final budget from Lansing, local districts have to build in assumptions on funding, which means the board will have to amend budgets midyear," Superintendent Patrick Little said. After they receive the final state budget, know the fall student count, and have completed the 2024-2025 audit, the budget will be revised.
The board also accepted an offer of $405,000 on the house built by the high school Building Trades Program. Since the district sold the house itself within the first 10 days, Lynda Christensen of Lynda's Real Estate Services agreed to handle all the paperwork for the sale for a $3,000 transaction fee rather than a standard realtor commission. Little thanked Christensen for her expertise and generosity. He also thanked teacher Todd Schumacher and the students and adults in his program for building "the best building trades house ever."
2024-2025 delivered a balanced budget
The 2024-2025 expenditures are expected to be very close to the 2024-2025 revenues. Revenues were $21,484, 561 and expenditures to date are $21,421,051, with a few remaining payments to be made before July 1 when the new budget year begins.
"Delivering a final budget that is neutral, without dipping into savings, is always desirable. This is a testament to the fine work of the district staff in staying on track with expenses. It's a team effort," Little said. Revenues included a one-time transfer from the Capital Projects/Enhancement budget to fund the improvements to the Early Learners pre-school classrooms, security entrance enhancements at the Boyne City Educational Center, student technology replacements, and high school stage flooring improvements. The fund balance at the end of 2024-2025 is projected to be $32.5 million.
2025-2026 General Fund original budget shows a planned spend down of reserves.
Revenues for 2025-2026 are estimated to be $20,444,188 with expenditures of $20,937,749, which will involve spending $493,561 from the fund balance. This “spend down" allows the district to continue funding some of the items/personnel that were previously funded by one-time funds. The district is projecting a $400 per student increase in revenues; however, it is projecting a 10 student decrease in enrollment. The budget includes the following reductions: one less bus route, one blending of a support position between the high school and Morgan Shaw Alternative High School and less capital outlay.
Food Service budget
Boyne City Public Schools is currently budgeting as if the state were to continue funding free breakfast and lunch for students from pre-school through 12th grade. Last year the district served 66,835 breakfasts and 135,982 lunches for a total of 204,817 meals. The amount budgeted for food service for 2025-2026 is $1,009,800.
Capital bond
"The newly voted capital bond will recognize bond proceeds on June 27, 2025. Bond capital projects will begin in the 2025-2026 school year and are currently in the planning process," Little said. On June 3, a meeting was held between the Career and Technical Education staff, administrators, and architects and engineers to complete a walk-through and discuss what the staff would like to see in their new classrooms.
Bi-weekly planning meetings will begin after the Fourth of July. Soil samples were taken in various locations on the school sites where construction will take place. Little explained that In 2025-2026, the focus will be predominantly on planning, with the major construction work starting the summer of 2026.
Teacher retirements
The board acknowledged the retirement of two district teachers. Marla Flynn, the elementary art teacher, has retired after 21 years of service. Pam McDowell, high school mathematics teacher, is retiring after 24 years of service.
Policy Committee meeting
There are few minor recommendations for changes to district policy, so the Policy Committee will meet at 4:45 p.m. before the July 21 organizational board meeting. Any changes can be then approved at the August regular board meeting.
Profile of a Graduate
On Aug. 13 from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. about 16 staff members and 16 community members will meet to go over the data gleaned from the community survey about what knowledge, skills, and attributes are important for a Boyne City graduate to possess.
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Prosecutor lists convictions for criminal sexual conduct cases
Charlevoix County Prosecuting Attorney Christopher D. Tholen has issued this press release regarding a recent development in his office as well as several cases of interest.
Canine Advocate - In March we received a Canine Advocate named Scully. He is a 2-year-old golden retriever who was “redeployed” after originally being trained as a seeing-eye dog. Michigan law allows certified canine advocates to sit with crime victims under certain conditions. Scully has already accompanied victims on the witness stand multiple times in child abuse and criminal sexual conduct cases. He has also sat with victims during trial preparation and court proceedings spanning numerous days. He was provided by a national organization without cost to the county; costs for veterinary care and food have been paid for through a state grant and a private donation.
Criminal Sexual Conduct Cases
In the last two months two individuals have taken their Criminal Sexual Conduct cases to trial and been convicted of sexual assaults against children. Their names are being withheld to protect the identity and privacy of their victims.
Two other recent Criminal Sexual Conduct cases were resolved through plea.
Trials
> A Petoskey man was convicted in May following a seven-day trial for crimes committed when he lived in Boyne City from 2017-2021. The evidence in that case was of multiple-year sexual abuse of a stepdaughter and a daughter. He was convicted of three counts of Criminal Sexual Conduct, 1st Degree and two counts of Criminal Sexual Conduct, 3rd Degree. He will be sentenced in June and faces a mandatory minimum of 25 years in prison.
> A Boyne City man was convicted of three counts of Criminal Sexual Conduct, Second Degree in June following a two-day trial. The evidence in that case was that the man groped the breasts of the 14-year-old daughter of his girlfriend on numerous occasions. He is set for sentencing in July.
Pleas
> In March a Boyne Falls man was sentenced for Criminal Sexual Conduct, Second Degree after investigation revealed that he had sexually touched the genitalia of the 8 year old daughter of his girlfriend. He pled no contest as charged and was sentenced to a minimum of 57 months in prison. A no contest plea is treated the same as a guilty plea.
> On May 22, Dominik Rydz pled no contest to Criminal Sexual Conduct, Fourth Degree. In the summer of 2023 Rydz was a lawful foreign worker living at Boyne Mountain. At a “going away party” for foreign workers he isolated and forcibly sexually touched a female foreign worker. Shortly thereafter the work authorization for both the victim and Rydz expired and they returned to their home countries. With assistance from the Department of Justice, Rydz was ordered extradited from his home country of Poland. He then fled to Germany but was caught and extradited from Germany to the United States. The costs of extradition were fully covered by the federal government. He will be sentenced in July, thereby providing closure for the victim of his crime and resulting in deportation from the United States. This event was traumatic for the victim and she deserved justice even if it meant bringing her assailant back from another continent. More broadly, foreign workers deserve to be protected even if they will be leaving the country shortly. Finally, people like Rydz should forever be prevented from the privilege of lawfully returning to the United States.
Child Sexually Abusive Material Cases
A 2024 affiliation between the Charlevoix County Sheriff’s Office, the Charlevoix County Prosecutor’s Office, and the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force is proving highly beneficial for the community. As a result of that partnership as well as other investigations of a similar type, the following behavior has been uncovered:
> In October, 2024 Cameron Matelski of Boyne Falls was arrested by the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (“ICAC”) after the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (“NCMEC”) reported that he shared videos of child sexually abusive material online. He pled guilty to Aggravated Child Sexually Abusive Activity and was sentenced in April, 2025 to three years in prison.
> In December, 2024 the NCMEC informed the ICAC Task Force of a person uploading videos of Child Sexually Abusive Material (“CSAM”) to the internet. The investigation led to the arrest of Cordelle Grams of Boyne City for Aggravated Possession of CSAM. He has pleaded not guilty and is presumed innocent.
> In March a tip from a private citizen led to the arrest of Derick Stark of Boyne City. He pled guilty to Aggravated Possession of CSAM and is pending sentencing.
> In March, the NCMEC informed the ICAC Task Force of a person uploading CSAM videos to the internet. Investigation led to the arrest of Kerry Dishaw, II of East Jordan for Aggravated Distribution of CSAM. Dishaw has pleaded not guilty and is presumed innocent.
> In June, a tip from a private citizen was provided that Scott Campbell of East Jordan had been engaged in explicit conversations with a person he believed to be a child. An investigation uncovered images and videos of CSAM in Campbell’s possession. He has been charged with Aggravated Possession of CSAM.
“Aggravated” charges are issued when there is an allegation that the CSAM involved one or more of the following aggravating factors: bestiality, sadomasochism, a prepubescent child, more than 100 images, or a video.
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The Boyne Citizen is hiring writers!
We’d like to hear from writers and editors who want to become involved with the Boyne Citizen. We have an opening for a staff writer - part-time or full-time, summer or beyond - we're flexible! Email jim@boynecitizen.com if you're interested.
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New 654-acre reserve is named Chigidaaki: Place of the Big Hill
Little Traverse Conservancy (LTC) has announced that the protection of 654 acres of forested hilltops near Boyne City is now officially named Chigidaaki: Place of the Big Hill Working Forest Reserve. This extraordinary conservation effort marks the largest working forest reserve protected by LTC in Michigan’s Lower Peninsula.
Formerly known as "White Mountain," the newly protected reserve rises to more than 1,000 feet in elevation, offering panoramic views of Lake Charlevoix and beyond. The property includes rolling hardwood forests, open meadows, and a network of two-track trails.
“Connecting protected lands is essential to safeguarding plants and animals as their habitats are lost or altered,” said Derek Shiels, the Conservancy’s director of land stewardship. “When we can protect such a large block of acreage in the lower peninsula adjacent to state land, this is landscape-level conservation. We are piecing together conserved lands across ownership boundaries to protect extensive wildlife habitat,” he explained.
The name Chigidaaki, which means “Place of the Big Hill” in Anishinaabemowin, was chosen in consultation with the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians, honoring the cultural and historical ties of Indigenous people to this landscape. Eric Hemenway, LTBB director of archives and records, shared that Odawa people would have historically traveled inland from Lake Michigan to this area to hunt, gather, and harvest timber.
The project was made possible through the support of nearly 200 individual donors, including a lead anonymous donor who requested the name be given in Anishinaabemowin. “We are delighted to support the conservation of this immense expanse of forest,” the donor said. “We believe Chigidaaki will become a beloved destination that promotes both ecological health and community wellness.”
Longtime LTC members Josette Lory and John McLeod also supported the project. “We were drawn to it because it’s so close to home,” Lory said, “and especially because of the scale - this kind of land protection is rare.”
“As veterinarians and birders, we know that wildlife need space, but so do people, to wander and wonder at creation,” said contributors Patricia O’Handley Robinson and N. Edward Robinson. “Seeing this property with its woods, meadows, and a spectacular view of Lake Charlevoix, we knew it must be made available for all. The conservation of White Mountain property fulfills our desire to serve the needs of wildlife and people.”
The Benz family, former owners of the land, played a vital role by giving LTC the time needed to raise funds. “We felt conserving it would be a wonderful legacy,” said Lee and Claire Benz. “Now more people will be able to enjoy the trails, the views, and the wildlife because it’s in the hands of the Conservancy.”
“This project is a beautiful reminder that conservation is not just about land, it’s about people,” said Kieran Fleming, executive director of Little Traverse Conservancy. “To have nearly 200 individuals come together to protect a place like Chigidaaki shows the heart of this community. We are grateful beyond words for the trust and shared vision of so many.”
LTC will now begin developing a long-term management plan for Chigidaaki, with fundraising continuing through 2025 to support the permanent care of this reserve.
To learn more or to make a gift in support of Chigidaaki, visit landtrust.org/bighill or call Emily Hughes at 231-347-0991.
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Michigan Congressional delegation calls on President Trump to approve disaster declaration
Washington - Rep. Jack Bergman, alongside Senators Slotkin and Peters and 12 other congressmen, sent a bipartisan letter to President Donald J. Trump, urging him in the strongest possible terms to approve Governor Whitmer’s May 16 request for a Major Disaster Declaration.
The members wrote, in part, "The unprecedented storm brought record levels of snow and freezing rain to 13 counties and one federally recognized tribe, causing widespread damage to homes, businesses, and critical infrastructure. Tens of thousands of residents were left without heat or power, prompting the State of Michigan to activate the Michigan National Guard and local jurisdictions to implement emergency response efforts.
"Although substantial progress has been made in restoring power, heating homes, clearing roadways, and removing debris, the recovery process remains far from complete nearly three months later. State and local resources have been expended, and federal support is desperately needed to continue recovery efforts.
"Governor Whitmer’s May 16 request has received strong bipartisan support across both chambers of Congress. On May 19, Senator Peters, Senator Slotkin, and Representative Bergman wrote to you in full support of her request, and on June 9, they followed up with a letter to Small Business Administrator Loeffler endorsing the Governor’s June 5 request for an administrative declaration of disaster.”
> Read the full letter here.
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Cornhole event to benefit Field of Dreams July 6
CORNHOLE TOURNEY - The Waterfront Field of Dreams Committee is sponsoring its fifth annual Cornhole Tournament on Sunday, July 6, in Old City Park. The tournament includes two divisions, Relaxed, held at 1 p.m., and Competitive at 3 p.m. with an entry fee of $40 per team. The tourney will be limited to 16 teams per division. The tournament is offering a $100 cash prize for first place and $50 cash prize for second for each division. Teams are invited to sign up during Stroll the Streets on Friday nights at Lynda's Real Estate Service, or by texting Becky at 231-675-0543. Proceeds from the event will go to the rebuilding of the Waterfront Field of Dreams Little League field in Veterans Memorial Park. Flyer for this event.
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Wilson Township appoints Ray Guzniczak to replace Todd Sorenson as supervisor
Highlights of the Wilson Township Board meeting on June 11th, as submitted by the township:
- Accepted Supervisor Todd Sorenson’s resignation and appointed Trustee Ray Guzniczak as interim supervisor.
- Discussed proposed placement of a hydrant on Korthase Road with residents. It was noted that the proposed location was recently found to be unacceptable. An alternate site is being evaluated by engineers and fire department personnel.
- New gazebo at Fall Park arriving early July. Site location and preparation discussed.
- Adopted 2025 Wilson Township Road Improvement Plan.
- Discussed resident complaints about Tannerite explosions. The County Sheriff will be contacted to see if anything can be done to limit or stop the explosions.
Wilson Township website: www.wilsontownship.org
> Editor’s note: The Boyne Citizen has contacted other Boyne area townships and asked them to provide similar summaries of their board meetings and other news. Contact Editor Jim Baumann with questions or news items - jim@boynecitizen.com or 231-675-8793.
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MOBILE SECRETARY OF STATE - The Michigan Secretary of State will visit the Boyne District Library with their mobile office from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday, July 3. Anyone may book a visit to the upstairs Library Conference Room to complete Secretary of State transactions, including for a first-time Michigan ID, to renew a driver’s license or ID, to transfer a title, or to apply for or renew a disability placard. For more information or to schedule your visit call 231-582-7861. Walk-ins are also welcomed.
REMOTE WORKERS are invited to join fellow remote professionals for a 1.5 hour, in-person focus group as part of the Northwest Michigan Remote Worker Study. This is your chance to share your experiences, challenges, and aspirations, and to help shape the future of remote work in the region. This session goes beyond the online survey, offering real conversations that bring valuable insights to light. Your input will help illustrate the realities of the remote workforce and influence future initiatives. Join the Northern Lakes Economic Alliance and and Networks Northwest on Monday, June 30th from 3-4 p.m. at the North Central Michigan College Conference Rooms. Light refreshments will be provided. Learn more and register.
GARDEN CLUB PIE SALE - The Boyne Valley Garden Club holds a pie sale on July 4 at the Pavilion in Veterans Memorial Park. New this year, pies can be pre-ordered through June 29. Visit the Garden Club's website, www.boynevalleygardenclub.com, to place your order. On July 4, you can simply visit the Pavilion between 9 am-noon and your order will be ready for pickup. Email boynevalleygardenclub@gmail.com with any questions.
ROTARY CHICKEN DINNER - The Boyne City Rotary Club is taking online orders for its famous Rotary Chicken Barbecue. This year the barbecue will be held at Veterans Park along the Lake Charlevoix waterfront from 11a.m. until sold out. The Rotarians will be barbecuing 750 chicken halves along with coleslaw and the famous Rotary beans. The pre-sale is limited to 600 dinners. The price of the dinner is $20 and you can pre-order and pay for your meal here. If you would like to order in advance and pay with cash or check, contact any Rotary member or Kathy at 231-469-6433.
DINING 4 PAWS - The Charlevoix Area Humane Society’s annual Dining 4 Paws fundraising event has been scheduled for Thursday, Aug. 7, at Castle Farms. The evening begins at 5:30 p.m. with cocktails and hors d'oeuvres, followed by a plated dinner at 6:30 p.m. For more information call 231-582-6774 or email pets.charlevoixhumane.org. Tickets are $125, including cocktails. Details and reservations.
MARINA OPEN HOUSE - Legacy Marina, formerly Bay Marina in Advance, is hosting an open house for their Lake Charlevoix marina from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, June 28. “We've made so many improvements to our Boyne City location, and we can't wait to show them off,” their Facebook invitation states. The open house will include live music from Jelly Roll Blues Band at 3 p.m., food from the Barrel Back Restaurant food truck, and boat demos on Lake Charlevoix. The marina has a new pro shop with rentals and gear, snacks and drinks.
DATES FOR FIREWORKS - Michigan law allows consumer fireworks to be used on private property from June 29 to July 4 (11:00 AM to 11:45 PM), and July 5 if it's a Friday or Saturday, which is the case in 2025. Fireworks are prohibited on public property, school property, church property, or the property of another person without express permission.
CORNHOLE TOURNEY - The Waterfront Field of Dreams Committee is sponsoring its fifth annual Cornhole Tournament on Sunday, July 6, in Old City Park. The tournament includes two divisions, Relaxed, held at 1 p.m., and Competitive at 3 p.m. with an entry fee of $40 per team. The tourney will be limited to 16 teams per division. The tournament is offering a $100 cash prize for first place and $50 cash prize for second for each division. Teams are invited to sign up during Stroll the Streets on Friday nights at Lynda's Real Estate Service, or by texting Becky at 231-675-0543. Proceeds from the event will go to the rebuilding of the Waterfront Field of Dreams Little League field in Veterans Memorial Park. Flyer for this event.
BeALERT/SMART911 - In the wake of the spring ice storm, police and EMS officials are urging everyone to sign up for BeAlert/Smart911, so they can receive alerts and messages regarding emergencies. If you know of any Charlevoix County residents who have not signed up to receive emergency alert texts through BeAlert, you are asked to encourage them to sign up for free. Here is the link to share with them if you need it - https://www.smart911.com/smart911/ref/reg.action?pa=CCEOEM.
CONSERVANCY FIELD TRIPS - The Little Traverse Conservancy has a large slate of field trips this season. Below and linked is a list of trips for June and July. Find more details and registration at www.landtrust.org. The first four are:
- Thursday, June 26, 1 p.m. Life on a Lonely Shore: the History of the Vermilion Point Life Saving Station, Voorhies Hall, Bay View.
- Thursday, June 26, 10 a.m. Hike & Bike the Melvin Melvin Family Hiking & Biking Trails, Topinabee.
- Friday, June 27, 1 p.m., Dragonfly Walk, Don & Eileen Klein Nature Trail.
> Details on all June-July field trips.
| | City of Boyne City Municipal News | | |
MARINA WAITLIST Community Input Event - Thursday, June 26, 5:30-7:30 PM, Boyne City Commission Chambers. Share your input. Join us for an informal, drop-in event focused on gathering a larger amount of public input on the Boyne City Marina Waitlist for City Commission review at an upcoming meeting. Whether you're on the list, have been in the past, or just care about how it works, this is your chance to share your thoughts.
You'll find tables with questions, space to jot down your feedback, and a collection box for responses. City staff will be there to help answer questions and help guide the conversation.
A few of the questions we’d like your input on:
- How long have you been on the waitlist and what has that experience been like?
- What’s working, and what could be better?
- Should seasonal slip holders have a time limit?
- And more…
Can’t make it in person? An online form will be available following the event.
Questions? Contact Jen at jeads@boynecity.gov
Let your voice be part of the discussion!
SEWER & WATER PROJECT MEETING - An informational meeting has been scheduled for Monday, June 30, at 5:30 PM at City Hall in the second floor Commission Chambers to update the public on our Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) Project.
City staff and project engineers will be on hand to:
- Share updates on the project scope and timeline
- Answer questions from residents
- Engage in open dialogue about what to expect
The public is welcome and encouraged to attend. If you notice project signs being placed in your neighborhood soon, this meeting is especially for you.
We encourage anyone who lives on or near the following streets to attend as they fall within the impacted areas: Lincoln, Earl, Alice, Franklin, Lewis, Hemlock, Main, Roosevelt, Boice, McClean, Brockway, and Harris.
Your input and understanding are important as we move forward with these critical infrastructure improvements.
MARINA IMPROVEMENTS - We’ve made a few more important improvements around the docks to enhance safety and convenience for our boaters:
- Emergency Stop (E-Stop) buttons have been installed at key locations around the Marina to provide a quick shutoff option for electrical pedestals in case of emergency.
- Bow cleats have also been added to help boats properly secure in their slips, giving you better stability while docked.
- Water service is now available on T Dock.
Here are a few friendly marina reminders to help keep things safe and smooth for all:
- Planning to dock at the Marina? Please call the staff on duty at (231) 582-7361 for permission before tying up.
- Fishing and swimming are not allowed on any Marina docks—this helps keep the area safe and boat traffic flowing smoothly.
- No swimming is allowed off the Shoppers’ Dock at the mouth of the river. With boats coming and going all season, it’s not a safe spot.
CITY COMMISSION PETITIONS - Official petition forms are available at City Hall for anyone interested in running for City Commission in the Nov. 4 election. Three seats will be filled in this election.
Key Steps for the Nomination Process:
- Petitions must include no fewer than 20 and no more than 40 signatures of registered voters within the City of Boyne City.
- Candidates must submit an Affidavit of Identity along with their petitions.
- The filing deadline is Tuesday, July 22, 2025 at 4:00 p.m.
City Hall is open Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and staff are available to assist candidates with any questions they may have throughout the process. Find more information on running for City Commission, the nominating process, and more online - https://www.boynecity.gov/services/clerk/elections/index.php
WARM WATER - After three days of 90-plus degree heat, Lake Charlevoix temperatures were hovering around 72°F as of June 23. Temps are monitored at the Boyne City Marina.
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CITY MANAGER APPLICATIONS - Ready to lead a thriving waterfront community in Northern Michigan? Boyne City is looking for a strategic, community-driven leader to oversee operations and shape the future. Apply by June 30. Find the full posting and apply online.
WATER QUALITY - Check out Boyne City's 2024 Water Quality Report. The report provides information on the quality of Boyne City's water, where it comes from, and how it stacks up against safety standards. Read the full report here.
CITY MEETINGS – Click here for board information, agendas, and minutes.
> City Commission's next regular meeting is at 12 p.m. Tuesday, July 8. Agenda page.
| | Pictured above is Dr. W. Ellwood Tew, an early Boyne City physician, seated in his early model automobile. The photograph was taken about 1908 in front of the entrance of his office, on South Park Street in downtown Boyne City. Photograph courtesy of the Patrick McCleary Collection. | | |
THROUGH THE HISTORIAN'S LENS
Portrait of an early physician, Dr. W. Ellwood Tew
By Patrick McCleary, Throughthehistorianslens@gmail.com
The Charlevoix County History Preservation Society
Boyne City has seen a wide variety of medical professionals over its past 150+ year history. While some were long-standing within the community, others came and went throughout the years. While their services were invaluable to local residents, it was often a difficult and demanding occupation. In the early 20th century, small-town doctors were most often general practitioners with limited, if any, surgical skills. They were frequently the only, or one of only a few medical professionals providing medical care within a broad radius. This comprehensive care included everything from basic checkups to emergency services - the latter were often quite common within the booming lumbering communities.
As a result, doctors became trusted advisors and were consulted on a wide range of issues, from delivering babies to mental health issues. House calls were also a common practice, resulting in a significant amount of time being spent with each patient. This sometimes required that the doctor travel long distances simply to reach the homes of their patients. Extreme weather conditions, coupled with poor rural road conditions, often added to the difficulty of travel.
With payment for services not always being in cash, and patients sometimes bartering goods or services for their medical care, the close-knit nature of small towns fostered a strong doctor-patient relationship. This resulted in most doctors becoming deeply embedded within the communities in which they practiced. Known personally to both their patients as well as the community at large, they frequently found themselves involved in community affairs. This is the story of one such doctor who came to the Boyne City community in the very early part of the last century.
Dr. William Ellwood Tew was the son of John and Mary (Dorman) Tew. He was born in Lapeer, Michigan, on Sept. 7, 1880 and was raised in Ironwood, where he graduated from the Luther L. Wright High School. He then studied medicine and graduated from the University of Michigan medical program in 1903. He is described as being short (5'8") and stout (185 lbs.) with grey blue eyes, a light complexion and dark hair. After graduation, Dr. Tew set up his practice at 106 1/2 Water Street in Boyne City. Since no mention is made of differing business and residential locations, it is assumed that the upstairs office location also provided Dr. Tew with living quarters.
| | This image shows South Lake Street about 1910 and is credited to famed photographer Edward Beebe. Notice that while the sidewalks are nicely paved, the street itself is still a rutted, dirt road. The clarity of images such as this allow for closer visual inspection, which greatly enhances the value of not only the image, but also its historical value. Photograph courtesy of the Patrick McCleary Collection. | | |
Enlarged from the above street scene photograph, this inset image allows for a closer inspection of the businesses at this location. At left is The Hub, a shoe, clothing and variety store. Upstairs from this establishment, I.B. McLean was operating a thriving insurance and land sales office. McLean played a vital role in the early days of the Boyne City Fire Department. Also upstairs of The Hub was the office of A.W. Bliss. Dr. Bliss was an early chiropractor that little is known about at present.
The building at the right, 108 S. Lake Street, is a shoe store, which would later be owned and operated by Channing and Millie Chase - the latter being the subject of a previous article.
Upstairs at 108 S. Lake Street were two medical practices, each clearly marked with their overhanging street signs. Dr. W. Ellwood Tew occupied the left side of the upper floor. On the right was a dentist, Dr. James R. Furman, another key player in Boyne City’s early firefighting days.
This is a fine example of how the study of early photographs can add an entire new “visual” dimension to the study of local history.
Dr. Tew practiced medicine at the South Lake Street location for the next 10 years, becoming an active figure among the local population. He was involved in a variety of men’s groups and county health care organizations. In 1913, Dr. Tew relocated his practice to Bessemer, Michigan, in the western portion of the Upper Peninsula. Advertised as both a physician and surgeon, his office in Bessemer was located above their Temple Theater.
Extracted from The Journal of the Michigan State Medical Society
Grand Rapids, Michigan - May 1913; Page 284
STATE NEWS NOTES
Dr. W. Ellwood Tew, who has been practicing medicine in Boyne City for the past ten years, has moved to Bessemer.
Dr. Tew was first married on October 3, 1911 at Covington, Kentucky to Bertha C. Sands. This marriage ended in divorce on November 13, 1925. There was one son born to this union, John “Jack” George Tew (1917-1981). One year following his divorce, Dr. Tew married a second time to Ethel R. Swanson at Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan. Ethel was the daughter of Samuel and Ellen (Norman) Swanson. They were married on September 16, 1926, and the following marriage notice appeared in the Iron County News at Hurley, Wisconsin.
HURLEY GIRL BECOMES BRIDE OF BESSEMER PHYSICIAN.
A quiet but pretty wedding took place Thursday evening, September 16 at 6:30, when Miss Ethel Swanson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Sam Swanson, of Hurley, became the bride of Dr. W. Ellwood Tew, of Bessemer.
The ceremony was performed at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, Detroit, Michigan, with Miss Anita LeGendre as bridesmaid and a brother, Mr. Robert P. Tew, of Detroit, attending the groom. After the ceremony a dinner was served at the Book Cadillac hotel to the immediate bridal party. The bride wore a pink georgette gown and large black picture hat to match and carried a bridal bouquet of roses. The bride is a graduate of the Hurley High School and of the nurse’s training school at St. Luke’s Hospital, Duluth, Minnesota. They will make their home at Bessemer where the groom is a practicing physician.
On December 25, 1944, Dr. W. Ellwood Tew succumbed to a sudden illness, dying on Christmas day. Boyne City citizens learned of the death immediately through the doctor’s involvement with the Royal Arch Masons. His notice of death appears in both the Boyne Citizen and the Petoskey Evening News later that same week. Even 30 years after his departure from Boyne, he was apparently well-remembered by many.
PASSED AWAY MONDAY
Word was received Tuesday by the royal Arch Masons of the death of Dr. W.E. Tew Monday morning at his home in Bessemer. Dr. Tew practiced medicine in Boyne City some years ago having left about 1910 for Bessemer where he has since made his home. He will be remembered by a number of the older residents in this city.
His widow continued to reside at Bessemer and passed away in 1960. Both are buried in Hillcrest Cemetery at Bessemer, Gogebic County in the Upper Peninsula.
| | > 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. | | |
Kim Baker in a photo from the Charlevoix County Press, which accompanied a story about him winning the Boyne City Tennis Tournament in in 1975.
Readers write: “My personal experience with William Tryon”
Horton Bay resident Kim Baker sent us this letter after reading last week’s Patrick McCleary history column titled “When murder comes to town – The Opal Tryon Case.”
Steve Martin recently remarked in a television interview, “As you age, you either become your worst self or your best self.” I believe, from my own personal experience, that William Tryon, Sr., whose tragic story you told in last week’s edition (Patrick McCleary history column, “When Murder Came to Town in 1946”), became his “best self” later in life.
My family has life-long ties to Northern Michigan. My grandfather worked for the Boyne City Railroad in the 1920’s, and my father attended a one-room schoolhouse in Boyne. My family vacationed here year-round at our cabin on Glenwood Beach just east of Young State Park.
When I was 15 years old, I asked my dad to teach me how to play tennis - I had learned as a freshman that I wasn’t built for football. We drove to what is now Boyne’s Veterans Park, where there were two courts. We batted balls here and there for an hour and came back the next day. Two fellows were playing that morning. One was a young Boyne City school teacher who attended the old First Baptist Church, where my mom sang and we worshipped each Sunday. The other was an older gentleman.
To make a long story short, our friend, who was leaving town for the summer to work on his master’s degree, arranged tennis lessons for me with Mr. Tryon, as I called him. A couple of days each week, I would take our Sea Ray runabout to the city docks, tie up for my lesson, and, on occasion, head over to Betty’s Restaurant for a bite to eat afterwards.
It wasn’t long before my parents were contacted by concerned neighbors. “Do you know who your son is playing tennis with?” My dad simply responded, “Yes, and everyone needs a second chance sometime during their life.”
Fast forward a bit, I ended up playing tennis in high school and then at Hope College in Holland, Michigan. Mr. Tryon and I kept in touch over the years.
The man I knew was kind to me and changed my life for the better.
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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.
BARREL BACK - 4069 M-75, Walloon Lake, (231) 535-6000.
> Sundays in July - Live music with Hanna Von Bernthal, 4-7 p.m. at the Dock Bar.
BC LANES/THE VENUE BAR & GRILL - 1199 M-75 S, Boyne City, (231) 582-6353.
> LIVE MUSIC, Bike & Car Night, 6-9 p.m. Tuesdays on our outdoor stage
Tuesday, July 1 - Spur the Moment
Tuesday, July 8 - Timberline
Tuesday, July 15 - Peril
Tuesday, July 22 - Spur the Moment
Tuesday, July 29 - Country Thunder
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:
Saturday, June 28 - Alex Teller
Wednesday, July 2- Katherine Ryan
Saturday, July 5 - Evan Archambo
Wednesday, July 9 - Katherine Ryan
Saturday, July 12 - No market today
Wednesday, July 16 - Laura Thurston
Saturday, July 19 - Rhett DuCouer
Wednesday, July 23 - Laura Thurston
Saturday, July 26 - Kevin Wolff
Wednesday, July 30 - Melissa Welke
BOYNE CITY TAP ROOM - 220 S. Lake St., Boyne City, (231) 459-4487.
> MY CLUE TRIVIA - Mondays at 7 p.m.
> SINGO BINGO - Wednesdays at 7 p.m.
> LIVE MUSIC at 7 p.m.
Thursdays - Adam and the Cabana Boys
Fridays & Saturdays - Patrick Ryan
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, June 27 - Nelson Olstrom (4-7)
Saturday, June 28 - Michelle Chenard (2-6)
Saturday, July 5 - Chris Calleja (2-6)
Sunday, July 6 - Michelle Chenard (1:30-5)
Friday, July 11 - Chris Calleja (2-6)
Saturday, July 12 - Chris Calleja (2-6)
Friday, July 18 - Jelly Roll Blues Band (4-7)
Saturday, July 19 - Two Track Mind (2-6)
Friday, July 25 - Chase & Allie (4-7)
Saturday, July 26 - Chris Calleja (2-6)
CAFE SANTE - 1 Water St., Boyne City, (231) 582-8800.
> LIVE MUSIC, 7-10 p.m.
Friday, June 27 - Pete Kehoe
Saturday, June 28 - Keith Scott
Friday, July 4 - Sean Bielby
Saturday, July 5 - The Fridays
Friday, July 11 - Brian T. McCosky
Saturday, July 12 - Pete Kehoe
Friday, July 18 - Genna & Jesse
Saturday, July 19 - Genna & Jesse
Friday, July 25 - Chris Calleja
Saturday, July 26 - The Lavender Lions Duo
CROOKED TREE ARTS CENTER - 461 E. Mitchell Street. Petoskey, (231) 347-4337.
> See website for updated entertainment, Swirl, art shows, and children's activities.
GREAT LAKES CENTER FOR THE ARTS - 800 Bay Harbor Drive, Petoskey, (231) 439 -2600.
SUMMER/FALL CONCERT SERIES:
June 27 - The Broadway Tenors
June 29 - Comedian Dustin Nickerson
July 5 - Get Loud Entertainment Presents: Lonestar
July 12 - 2025 Gala, Disco Paradise featuring KC and The Sunshine Band
July 20 - An Evening with Lyle Lovett and his Large Band
July 30 + 31 - Bay View Music Festival Presents: Bizet’s Carmen
Aug 3 - Straight No Chaser Summer: The 90s Part 2
Aug 9 - The Landsharks Band
Aug 15 - Ashes & Arrows
Aug 29-31 - Jersey Boys
Sep 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
LAVENDER HILL FARM - 7354 Horton Bay Rd N, Boyne City, (231) 582-3784.
> Stillhouse Junkies will take the main stage on Saturday, June 28th with a pre-show performance by Local Ground musicians Steel & Wood. Details and tickets.
MUSKRAT DISTILLING - 121 Water St., Boyne City, (231) 268-0178.
Food service starts March 31. Hours will be Monday-Thursday 4-8 and Friday 4-9. Here is the Muskrat Munchies Menu, created by Katie Willis.
> KARAOKE - 8 to 11 p.m. every Wednesday
> LIVE MUSIC:
Friday, June 27 - Eric Jaqua, 6-9 p.m.
Thursday, July 3 - Lou Thumser, 6-9 p.m.
Thursday, July 3 - DJ T-Bone, 9:30-11:59 p.m.
Monday, July 7 - Lit With Literature, 7 p.m.
Friday, July 11 - Timberline, 6-9 p.m.
Saturday, July 12 - DJ Lee Blossom, 9-11:59 p.m.
Monday, July 14 - Bloomin’ Sanity Women’s Happy Hour, 5 p.m.
Friday, July 18 - Lavender Lions, 6-9 p.m.
Friday, July 25 - Eric Jaqua, 6-9 p.m.
PENINSULA PARK EVENT CENTER, 5 W. Main Street, Boyne City, (231) 881-5192, peninsulaparkevents@gmail.com. This space is available to rent for public and private events including parties, fundraisers, entertainment, classes and meetings.
> Friday, July 11 - Billy Gunther and the Midwest Riders perform from 8 p.m. to 12 midnight of Boyne Thunder weekend. Admission is $10.
PROVISIONS LOUNGE - 123 Water St., Boyne City, (231) 582-2151.
LIVE MUSIC, 6-8 p.m. Tuesdays.
SOMMERSET POINTE Yacht Club and Restaurant - 00970 Marina Dr, Boyne City, (231) 582-9900.
> Thursday, June 19, 6-8 p.m. - live music with Laura Crowe.
STIGGS BREWERY & KITCHEN - 112 S. Park St., Boyne City, (231) 497-6100
> July 2 and the first Wednesday of the month - Open Mic Nights hosted by Nelson Olstrom, 6-9 p.m.
> July 12 and the second Saturday of the month - Karaoke with DJ T-Bone Thompson from 8-11 p.m.
WALLOON JUNCTION GRILL AND BAR. 4472 M-75, Walloon Lake, (231) 535-6006.
> Friday, June 27, July 11 & 25 - Laura Crowe, 6-9 p.m.
> Friday, July 18 - Chris Calleja, 6-9 p.m.
> Saturday, July 26 - Exit 808, 7-10 p.m.
WALLOON WATERSHED - 4128 M-75 , Walloon Lake, (231) 535-6048. Live music at 6 p.m.:
> Mondays, June 30, July 7 & 28, Aug 11 & 25 - Tweed Tones.
> Tuesdays through Aug. 26 - Michelle Chenard.
> Wednesdays, July 16 & 23, Aug. 6 & 20 - Pete Kehoe.
> Thursdays through Aug. 28 - Laura Crowe.
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