|
Kate's birthday #105
Boyne City resident Kate Hartlep celebrated her 105th birthday yesterday, April 30. Kate is holding a birthday bouquet she received from her niece, Joni Hartlep Zucchiatti and her sister, Judy Hartlep. The portrait behind Kate was painted by Seattle artist Morag Charlton for Kate's 95th birthday. The mannequin behind her holds Kate’s late husband Woody Hartlep's World War II uniform.
> Read more about Kate’s long life in our story below, with another picture.
| | |
Inside this issue
- Agency to decide public access above Boyne River Dam
- County Board approves final phases of BC-Charlevoix trail
- Raineys purchase church building for child-care center
- Kate Hartlep celebrates her 105th birthday
- Concerts return to the Gazebo starting June 25
- 65th annual Mushroom Festival runs from May 15-18
- Library welcomes author Bonnie Jo Campbell on May 23
- Middle School students to perform "Music Man Jr."
- It’s Galaxy Season in our night skies
- Patrick McCleary on Ephraim Shay's ties to Boyne City
- News briefs, Municipal News, Obituaries
- Thanks to the donors who keep the news coming!
- Music and entertainment listings
| > Like this email? Forward it to a friend and help us grow. | |
Local news is made possible by you
The Boyne Citizen is committed to being a resource for in-depth local news and information you can trust. Will you join more than 280 donating supporters who believe the Boyne area needs high-quality news and information? We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization.
> You may donate online or mail a check to 1119 West Street, Boyne City MI 49712.
| | |
View of the channel and reservoir from the top of the Boyne River Dam. This area is now private with no public access.
Agency to decide if there will be public access to Boyne River Dam reservoir
By Jamie Baumann, jamie@boynecitizen.com
This is the second Boyne Citizen story on this process. The previous article ran in the April 3, 2025 edition and focused on the dam's effect on river conditions.
Boyne Resorts is going through a federal relicensing process to continue operating the Boyne River Hydroelectric Project, which generates 8% of the power for Boyne Mountain Resort. The 40-year license expired in 2022, and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission has given Boyne Resorts one-year extensions as they work through a process that started with Boyne's renewal application in 2017.
One point of discussion in the FERC licensing process is whether public access to Boyne's surrounding private property should be required, including the 68-acre impoundment and reservoir located just upstream of the dam. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR), the Michigan Hydroelectric Regulatory Commission (MHRC), and a FERC staff analysis all support the idea that public access to the impoundment area should be included in the new license.
Almost all FERC-regulated dams allow public access to impoundment areas. Recreational access is a public benefit considered as mitigation for any harm that generating the electric power may cause. If Boyne Resorts did not generate power with the dam, there would be no requirement to allow public access to their private land.
Boyne Resorts currently allows public access to 1,300 feet of private land on both sides of the river tailwater downstream from the dam to Dam Road. This meets the public access requirement of the previous FERC license. Boyne Resorts has also made stream bank stabilization improvements downstream of the dam, which serve as access for recreational fishing.
Even so, since the renewal process started, MDNR and MHRC have continued to press for a licensing requirement for public access to the impoundment area.
On June 28, 2018, Kyle Kruger, senior fisheries biologist with the MDNR, wrote: "The license term will be a minimum of 30 years; therefore, forward-looking considerations need to be made. Access to the impoundment should be part of the recreation plan for the project and the Department expects that provisions to provide access to the impoundment will be included in any new license issued for the project."
In March 2021, former Boyne Mountain General Manager Ed Grice wrote: "Throughout the application process there has been an aggressive, coordinated effort, pushing for Boyne to allow access to the impoundment and to the river upstream of the impoundment. This is something Boyne will never agree to. It will never happen."
In a June 2022 environmental report, FERC staff summarized that both MDNR and the MHRC request impoundment access, as well as some upgraded facilities, be requirements of the new license. The report summarized that Boyne Resorts said 1) there are no public roads that allow access to the project reservoir, 2) there has never been public access to the area, 3) there is little public interest in this fishery, and 4) upgrading the existing private access road to accommodate the general public would require major public use infrastructure.
At the time, Boyne Resorts estimated that the cost of the requested upgrades would be $205,175, which was "well in excess of what is appropriate to give equal consideration to recreational resources considering the small size of the project." Boyne pointed out that they already maintain the tailwater access areas for public use as a significant investment in public access to recreation at the project.
The FERC staff analysis in the June 22, 2022 report said that based on the description of the reservoir on Boyne Outfitters’ website and the fact that the reservoir has been continually stocked since 2013, "it is clear that there is public interest in accessing the project reservoir for fishing." The staff analysis also noted that the ability to launch small watercraft already exists on the project reservoir because there is a private boat launch used by private sportfishing outfitters. Road infrastructure (i.e., the private access road) leading to the boat launch also exists.
The FERC staff analysis said that providing a barrier-free shoreline fishing area with no obstructions would provide public and fishing access to the reservoir, but would only require a small parking area. "Parking for four vehicles, including a barrier-free parking spot, would be reasonable for a reservoir of this small size. Providing public access to the project reservoir would be consistent with the Commission’s policy on recreation opportunities at licensed projects."
In April 2025, Dana Castle, fisheries biologist with MDNR who works with licensing, said that the MDNR still advocates that FERC require public access to the impoundment area as part of a new license.
"Our impression from previous conversations we’ve had with Boyne Resorts is that they are open to dialogue. Both MDNR and Boyne Resorts are awaiting the new license from FERC, which will outline recreational access requirements, and we expect to have additional discussions moving forward," Castle said.
Historically in the state, FERC-regulated impoundments almost always allow access, according to Castle. Though Consumers Energy owns the land around their impoundments at other dams, they allow full public access."It is rare for FERC-regulated impoundments not to allow access."
"We are hoping to keep talking to Boyne and keep that open relationship. Once a license is issued, the DNR keeps looking at things and doing due diligence, making sure they are adhering to the license," Castle said.
Boyne Resorts' environmental report showed bank erosion and sedimentation caused by public access and noted that they want to strike the right balance between conservation and access. Boyne's report says that only a two-track for staff use goes back to the impoundment area.
In the area downstream of the dam, over the years several conservation groups have worked with Boyne Resorts to provide platforms and stairways to improve access to the river for fishermen; however, as witnessed in a dam tour in April, now several of these are washed out and in ill repair with no current plan for remediation until the license requirements have been finalized and the license has been granted. Boyne Resorts staff provides upkeep by removing trash from the public access area periodically.
Stacie Harris, vice president for communications for Boyne Resorts, said, "Most FERC regulated impoundments provide access over public property. The access is through a public DNR boat launch or access and is not typically owned by a private party or dam operator. In this case, Boyne owns and operates the dam and owns all of the property around the dam. What is being requested is that Boyne, the private land owner, grant access to the public over its property. We do not believe any other private land owners with property abutting an impoundment have been required to grant the public access over their property. Additionally, there are significant liability concerns with giving the public access to the property. The dam and impoundment area do present hazards for the general public."
"As private property owners, Boyne Resorts' position is that private property rights should be respected and upheld," Harris said.
Boyne Resorts does not plan major development for the impoundment area, but does plan to build some cabins near the reservoir. Jason Perl, Boyne Mountain General Manager noted that they had asked the Michigan Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) for a permit to dredge the reservoir, but that permission was denied, so they moved on and didn't dredge.
There is no published timeline for the licensure decision. At some point, FERC will decide whether to issue a license for Boyne to continue generating electricity, and the licensing contract may include additional public access requirements for the impoundment and reservoir area that Boyne Resorts would be required to meet and the MDNR would monitor.
| | |
Photo from last fall shows a portion of the Boyne City-Charlevoix Trail is closed until repairs can be made to some of the newly constructed retaining walls.
County Board approves engineering for final phases of BC-Charlevoix trail
By Carole Shane, cjshane@charter.net
The challenges of providing equitable allocation of resources to citizens in various parts of the county were on display at the April 23 Charlevoix County Board of Commissioners meeting.
During public comment, three county residents addressed the board, encouraging their continued support toward completion of the Boyne City to Charlevoix Non-Motorized Trail. Numerous other citizens in attendance raised their hands in support of the three speakers.
The Boyne City to Charlevoix Non-Motorized Trail Project, commonly referred to as the “bike trail,” is a five-phase project that has been in process for many years with significant controversy and delays.
Subsequent discussion between board members reflected the varied viewpoints of residents in different regions of the county.
Commissioner Chris Christensen referred to the trail as “the last known trail in Charlevoix County.” Commissioner Scott Hankins countered by quoting East Jordan Mayor Mark Penzien as inquiring, “When do we get ours?” referring to the trail.
In a 4-2 vote, commissioners passed a motion to give the firm Wade Trim a contract to complete the engineering for Phases 4 and 5 of the trail. Commissioners Christensen, Tim Kenny, Robert Jess, Tim Kenny, and Annemarie Conway voted in favor of the move with Commissioners Hankins and Joshua Chamberlain voting no.
Jess expressed the hope that Wade Trim will assist the county in obtaining grant funds to assist in paying for completion of the trail. Wade Trim may also provide assistance in establishing a community fund that would provide for maintenance of the trail in perpetuity, per their presentation to the Committee of the Whole on April 10.
Fiscal Officer Becki King informed board members that county wide, an estimated $3-million has been spent dealing with the effects of the recent spring ice storm. King stated that $20,000 has come directly from county funds. The $20,000 number does not include expenditures by the Road Commission.
King further stated that while Governor Whitmer has included Charlevoix County as part of a state of emergency and FEMA personnel have visited the area, it is unclear what funds, if any, will become available to relieve the county, municipalities and individuals affected by the recent ice storm.
King also alerted commissioners of the possibility of grant funding through the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) in conjunction with the federal government. A grant could allow the county to obtain multiple, house-sized generators that could be distributed to local essential businesses such as banks and gas stations during a future emergency. Further information on this topic will be forthcoming. There would likely be a quick turn-around time to apply for this grant if the board decides to do so.
No further action was taken regarding the possibility of installing a generator at the Shirley Roloff Center in Charlevoix. The matter has been referred to the Building and Grounds Department for further study and pricing.
Commissioner comments during discussion demonstrated recognition of the fact that equipping the Roloff building with a generator would benefit residents in the northern section of the county more so than those living in the more southern region if a major emergency similar to the recent ice storm were to occur.
The board unanimously approved a motion to remove Harry Wright from the Commission on Aging (COA) Advisory Board. Wright has been dealing with health issues and has missed several meetings. His removal will allow the board to appoint a replacement and establish a quorum for the group.
The following resolutions were passed unanimously:
- Restated Articles of Incorporation of the CCE Agreement (911).
- Purchase of delinquent taxes.
- Register of Deeds purchase.
- Materials Management Coordinator Job Description and Title.
| | |
Keagan and Lee Rainey pose in new child-care building with their children, Benton, 3 (at left), and Penelope, 2.
Raineys purchase church building for expanded child-care center
By Jim Baumann, jim@boynecitizen.com
Boyne City residents Keagan and Lee Rainey have purchased the Community of Christ Church building at 777 Vogel Street, and they will be converting it into a child-care center that can accommodate up to 50 children ages 3 and under.
They have made an agreement that allows the church to continue to use the building for its services every Sunday morning.
Keagan Rainey has been operating Little Ducklings Childcare LLC from her Wilson Township home for the past two years. She can accommodate up to 12 preschoolers under the age of 2. Little Ducklings has a waiting list, and Keagan is aware there is a shortage of child-care facilities locally and nationwide, so they looked for an opportunity to expand.
Lee Rainey started the ball rolling on December 10 when he attended the Boyne City Commission meeting. During the “Citizen Comments on Non-agenda Items” part of the meeting, Rainey told the commission that his wife Keagan would like to expand her child-care business into the church building, but it did not meet zoning requirements.
Commissioners and then-Planning Director Scott McPherson all agreed that this site seemed ideal for such a use, and that more child-care services were badly needed in the community. The matter was referred to the Planning Commission for a zoning ordinance change that would take a few months to be approved.
A zoning ordinance text amendment that would allow child-care centers and day care centers to be approved as a conditional use in the Rural Estate District was quickly approved by the Planning Commission and City Commission with final approval coming in March.
The Raineys purchased the building March 28, and now they have submitted their plans to the Michigan Child Care Licensing Bureau, Health Department of Northwest Michigan, and the Michigan Bureau of Fire Services for approvals. The state agency gave preliminary approval of the building before the purchase was finalized.
Keagan earned an associates degree in early childhood education from North Central Michigan College and worked for another child-care service for two years before starting her own child-care business in her home two years ago.
If all approvals go through, and if she can find enough staff, Keagan says the large new building will accommodate up to 50 children from birth to age 3. Ideally, Little Ducklings would gradually expand to reach that number. Keagan says she would like to hire two teachers this summer that would allow her to accommodate 16 children by fall.
Once local children reach age 3, they qualify to attend the Early Learners program operated by Boyne City Public Schools, Boyne Falls Preschool, or any other preschool in northern Michigan.
> Studies raise warnings about Michigan child-care access, cost. Story from Bridge Michigan.
| | |
The former Community of Christ Church building at 777 Vogel Street will become a child-care center - and the church will still use the building on Sundays.
| |
Spring Advertising Special!
6 ads for the price of 5
Run 5 ads for $100 each, get the 6th ad free sometime in 2025!
Your ad message reaches 1,600 subscribers with an 80% open rate!
Call Jim at 231-675-8793 or email jim@boynechamber.com
Print a flyer
| | | | |
The birthday girl is about to blow out the candle on her carrot cake.
Kate Hartlep celebrates her 105th birthday with flowers, pot roast and carrot cake
Boyne City resident Kate Donnelly Hartlep celebrated her 105th birthday yesterday, April 30. Her son Eric Hartlep posted on Facebook: “I'm having her, my sister Pat and girlfriend over for pot roast, salad, carrot cake and ice cream, and whatever drinks mom prefers. Happiest of Happy Birthdays, Dear Mom!”
An article written by Linda Rogers of the Northern Michigan Rosie the Riveter Society in the Charlevoix County News last November focused on the fact that Kate Hartlep was one of “the Rosies.” These were the women who stepped in for men to work in factories and shipyards during World War II, many of whom produced munitions and war supplies.
Rogers’ article stated: “Now at 104 (and ½), legally blind and hard of hearing, Kate shares her secret to longevity: Hard work and a good sense of humor. Kate exercises daily and does the dishes and ironing.” There’s a Facebook picture of Kate shoveling snow at age 103.
Eric remembers when Kate turned 100 on April 30, 2020, the Boyne City fire and police departments drove slowly up Boyne Avenue at 1 p.m. with sirens blaring and lights flashing past her East Main Street home to celebrate her birthday.
Here is an article written by Eric five years ago that told that story and filled in details about her long life:
Led by Fire Chief Dennis Amesbury and Chief of Police Kevin Spate, the combined force of first responders were joined by a string of vehicles driven by friends and neighbors, all honking horns and waving. Waving back from her doorway, to stay out of the steady rain, Kate was thrilled at all the attention. The combined effort more than made up for the cancellation of Kate’s family’s plans for taking her to a restaurant for her big day, which of course had to be nixed due to the general Covid-19 quarantine.
Born Kate Donnelly in 1920, she first moved to Boyne City in 1942, just after marrying Woodrow Hartlep, who was working at the Boyne Tannery at the time.
Raised during the Great Depression, Kate was no stranger to hard times, or to what it took to get through them. She and Woody grew large vegetable gardens on both sides of their house, easily feeding their family that included three children, as well as canning or preserving everything they could to get through the winter months. Combined with the fish they caught and the animals they hunted, the family never went hungry, even in lean years.
During World War II, Kate and Woody moved to California, where she worked making bomb sights for the Air Force at a plant near Los Angeles, while Woody trained to become a military policeman, serving in North Africa and Italy until 1944. After the war they returned to Boyne City, opening the business they were best known for in 1969, Woody’s Bait & Tackle shop.
For nearly 20 years, the couple worked as a team – along with their children – to supply the needs of hunters and fishermen throughout Northern Michigan. After Woody’s death in 1998, Kate and her daughter Patricia held a giant community sale of Woody’s old fishing gear, which attracted hundreds of buyers, many of them local men and women, eager to own just a little something to remind them of happy times at the old bait shop.
| | |
Concerts returning to the Gazebo starting June 25
“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 starting June 25. For several years the chamber-sponsored concerts were moved from the Gazebo to the Veterans Park Pavilion.
Asked about the location change, Chamber Executive Director Tricia Wilcox said, “We decided to move back to the Gazebo because it felt more like home for our little concert series. The tall trees offer plenty of shade and the gazebo is the perfect stage for our musicians.”
Wilcox said she 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 “or just come to enjoy the music,” Wilcox said. “Come early to grab a good spot or stop by when you can.”
Here is the summer schedule, with concerts held from 6:30 - 8 p.m.:
- June 25 - Full Moon Jam Band
- 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
| | |
Participants in the Competitive Hunt are bussed to a secret location and then they all take to the woods for 90 minutes.
65th annual National Morel Mushroom Festival runs from May 15-18
Each spring hundreds of morel mushroom lovers from around the state, country and globe travel to small-town Boyne City, seeking and celebrating the marvelous morel at the National Morel Mushroom Festival. Found in the woods of beautiful northern Michigan, the elusive morel mushroom is savored by those lucky enough to find this delectable treat. The festival is held the weekend after Mother’s Day, and features morel tastings, a competitive hunt, morel hunting seminar, arts & crafts show, concert, carnival, and more. Here is the full schedule. Click here for schedule updates and here are the festival sponsors. All events are in Veterans Memorial Park unless stated otherwise.
THURSDAY, MAY 15:
FRIDAY, MAY 16:
SATURDAY, MAY 17:
- 7:30 - 8:40am: Registration for 65th Annual National Competitive Morel Mushroom Hunt, Boyne City High School.
-
Online Pre-Registration (Recommended)
- Competitive Hunt Rules & Information
- 8 am - Noon: Farmers Market
-
9 -11am: 65th Annual National Competitive Morel Mushroom Hunt sponsored by Boyne City Kiwanis, buses leave from Boyne City High School.
-
Online Pre-Registration (Recommended)
-
10am - 6pm: Arts & Crafts Show + Food Trucks, Veterans Memorial Park
- Craft Show Vendor Application
- Food Truck Vendor Application
-
10am - 6pm: Painting in the Park with Dan: Kids (and adults) can paint their own one-of-a-kind morel masterpiece alongside Daniel Duncan of Duncan Studios. Donations appreciated to cover the cost of materials. Veterans Memorial Park behind Duncan Studios' booth in the Arts & Crafts Show.
-
10am - 6pm: Boyne Area Skate Park Fundraiser: Mini skateboard lessons on basics and tricks by donation benefiting the construction of the future Boyne Area Skate Park.
-
11am - 10pm: Schmidt Amusements Carnival sponsored by Boyne Valley Lions.
- 12 - 2:30pm: TASTE OF MORELS, our Premiere Event: Largest concentration of morel mushroom cooking in the WORLD. Local Chefs prepare morel-infused delicacies and compete for the top three winning dishes as voted on by a panel of Celebrity Judges. Cash bar available. $10 admission with tasting tickets for purchase. Heated tent.
-
4 - 5pm: Great Morel Giveaway: Enter to win a pound of morels or a $50 gift certificate at multiple participating downtown businesses. Entries are free and can be made in advance at as many businesses you like. Drawings begin at 4pm at Freshwater Art Gallery and travel through downtown with the "Morel Mob" until drawings are done. Must be present to win.
-
7 - 11pm: 65th MOTHERLOAD BASH, presented by Boyne City Hardware & Boyne Mountain Resort: Rock out to The Family Tradition Band, voted "Best Band" by Hour Detroit Magazine specializing in classic country rock; 21+ older with cash bar. $10 admission. Heated tent.
SUNDAY, MAY 18:
-
12 - 3pm: Paint & Sip with Duncan Studios: Create a one-of-a-kind Michigan Morel painting with detailed instruction by artist Dan Duncan, complimentary glass of wine or beer (cash bar afterwards), $60 per person, Heated tent.
- Pre-registration is required, plus a picture of the painting.
- 12 - 3pm: Arts & Crafts Show, Veterans Memorial Park
- Craft Show Vendor Application
- Food Truck Vendor Application
-
12 - 5pm: Schmidt Amusements Carnival sponsored by Boyne Valley Lions.
REMINDERS:
- Veterans Memorial Park and all city parks are tobacco, drug and weapon free.
- Dogs are not allowed in city parks during special events and festivals.
| | |
Library welcomes author Bonnie Jo Campbell on May 23
The Boyne District Library is one of five Michigan libraries that will celebrate Michigan Notable Book Award winner and national best-selling author Bonnie Jo Campbell, who will read from, discuss, and sign copies of her acclaimed 2024 novel, “The Waters” from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Friday, May 23.
A few books will be for sale, courtesy of the Friends of Boyne District Library, but attendees are encouraged to bring their own books for signing.
Campbell lives outside Kalamazoo with her husband and two donkeys. She writes: “It is a great honor to have The Waters chosen as a Michigan Notable Book! I’m looking forward to heading north to visit readers, librarians, and fellow writers in some of Michigan’s most beautiful towns. Libraries enable the very best conversations!”
Since its release in 2024, The Waters has received many honors. It was a Today Show #ReadWithJenna Book Club Selection, one of Oprah Daily's Best Books of Spring and Best Books of 2024, one of the Christian Science Monitor's Best Books of January, and more.
Michigan Notable Books is sponsored in part by the Library of Michigan Foundation and Michigan Humanities.
| | |
"The Music Man Jr."
Boyne City Middle School presents Meredith Wilson’s “The Music Man Jr.” (pictured above and below) for three performances at the High School Performing Arts Center. Showtimes are Thursday, May 1, at 7 p.m.; Friday, May 2, at 7 p.m.; and Saturday, May 3, at 2 p.m. Tickets are available at the door for $5 per person or $5 for a family of five or more.
| | |
Char-Em District asks for #RayderStrong support
The Char-Em Intermediate School District is encouraging everyone in communities throughout their region to “show support for our Charlevoix Rayder neighbors and friends” by wearing maroon this Friday, May 2. This is intended “to show solidarity with the Charlevoix school community in the aftermath of the serious accident that occurred with the boys’ varsity golf team on April 27. We want to show the Charlevoix community that the region stands with them as the students and coach recover from their injuries and work to overcome the emotional toll such an accident can have as well.”
Organizers are asking supporters “to wear Rayder colors of maroon and white, Charlevoix school or community apparel, maroon ribbons, or other ways to show support for the district. Students and staff are encouraged to create posters and messages of support, and share photos of all activities with the hashtag #RAYDERSTRONG. We want to flood social media with messages of support and encouragement to students, their families, the school district, and the community.”
| | |
Leadership class schedules suicide prevention fundraiser
The Leadership Charlevoix County Class of 2025 has teamed up with Kiersten’s Ride to launch a powerful outreach campaign focused on suicide prevention and mental health awareness - and they need your help to make it happen. They have this upcoming fundraiser:
-
May 10 – safeTALK Suicide Alertness training hosted by Kiersten’s Ride, Boyne District Library Community Room, 201 E. Main St. Boyne City, from 9am-12:30pm, registration is $25 (refunded upon completion *minus small fee). Everyone in Charlevoix County is invited and encouraged to sign up and attend. Help make our community safer by becoming more suicide alert. Learn more and register HERE.
> How to donate (please mention ‘LCC’ on all donations). Mail a check to Kiersten’s Ride, 04316 Cosier Rd, East Jordan, MI 49727. Or donate via Venmo here.
| | |
Help us spread the word about local journalism ...
-
Ask your friends to subscribe for free.
-
Consider making a donation. We are a 501c3 nonprofit.
-
If you’re a business, reach out to our 1,600 readers and run an ad - details here for our Spring Special.
-
Follow us on Facebook and make a comment.
-
Email jim@boynecitizen.com with story ideas and your thoughts about the new Boyne Citizen.
- We’d also like to hear from writers and editors who would like to become involved.
| | |
BUILDING TRADES - The Boyne City High School Building Trades Program will host an Open House Thursday, May 1, from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. to showcase the progress of the new house at 541 Maddy Lane. The public is invited to attend.
NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER will be celebrated in Boyne City at the Veterans Park Pavilion at 12 noon Thursday, May 1, with a prayer gathering including a harpist, and at 7 p.m. with teen-led music, praise and prayer.
PRESCHOOL FUNDRAISER - The Boyne City Preschool invites the community to attend their “Taco ‘Bout a Fundraiser” from 4 to 7 p.m. Saturday, May 3, at the Boyne City Eagles Hall, 106 River St., Boyne City. Suggested donation is $12 for adults and $7 for children. The event will include a silent auction, a 50/50 raffle and more. For information, contact Jaimie or Kayla at 231-582-7131. Event flyer.
CAMP DAGGETT CENTENNIAL - Steve Post will present a program on this year's Camp Daggett Centennial at 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 6, at the American Legion Hall, 455 Bay St., Petoskey. Post is the grandson of camp founder Walter J. MacMillan. Camp Daggett history.
CAMP CLEAN-UP - Camp Daggett is hosting a Community Clean-Up on Saturday, May 10, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. They are looking for volunteers to assist with campus clean-up efforts following recent ice storm damage as they prepare for their 100th Summer Camp season. Lunch will be provided for all volunteers. Anyone interested in lending a hand and spending a meaningful morning at camp may sign up using this form.
POP-UP STORE - The Boyne City Eagles will be hosting a one-day Pop-up Store from 12-6 p.m. Wednesday, May 7, at 106 River St., sponsored by the Eagles Ladies Auxiliary. This special event is open to the public. Participating will be:
- Upsy-Daisy Floral
- Tupperware by Kay Piehl
- Cards by Karen
- Lauren the Jewelry Lady
- Woodcrafts by HM Woodcarver
- Rada Knives by Debbie Cooper
COFFEE TALK - Boyne City School Superintendent Pat Little will be hosting his monthly Coffee Talk from 8:30-9:30 a.m. Wednesday, May 7, at Lake Charlevoix Coffee Company in downtown Boyne City. Stop by to ask questions on school-related topics.
RANKED VOTING PROGRAM - Learn more about the effort underway to put an initiative on an upcoming election ballot to pass ranked choice voting in Michigan in a free presentation at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, May 8, at the Boyne District Library. Presenters from RankMIVote.org will discuss why they believe ranked choice voting makes our elections better by allowing voters to rank candidates in order of preference.
LEGION BREAKFAST - American Legion Post 228 of Boyne City will be hosting an all-you-can-eat breakfast from 8-11 a.m. Saturday, May 10, at 302 S. Lake St. Breakfast includes eggs, bacon, sausage, potatoes, pancakes, biscuits and gravy, orange juice, coffee, and tea. Admission is $9 for ages 16 years and up, $7 for ages 10-15, $5 for ages 6-9, and free for ages 5 and younger.
BLOOMIN’ SANITY Happy Hour is planned for 5-7 p.m. Monday, May 12, at Muskrat Distillery, 121 Water St., Boyne City. The “Pause Breathe Proceed” organizers invite you to join them to celebrate spring, women and mental wellness. “Join us for a wildflower night of sisterhood to kick the insanity of stress, anxiety and self doubt. Bloom into a new way of living with a new way of thinking!”
ROTARY PAVILION - The Rotary Club of Boyne City will host a celebration and dedication ceremony at 5:30 p.m. Monday, May 19, at the pavilion the club built at Peninsula Beach Park in honor of the club's 100th anniversary. Keynote speaker for the ceremony will be Mark Andresky, Rotary District 6290 Governor Elect for 2025-26, who is a member of the Charlevoix Rotary Club. “We invite everyone to join us at this historical event,” said Club President Lynn Amato. Light refreshments will be served, and the club will also honor two long-standing Rotarians, John DiMartino and John Polinski.
COUNTY-WIDE BAH - The Boyne, Charlevoix and East Jordan chambers of commerce are teaming up to sponsor the annual County-Wide Business After Hours from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday, May 22, at The Boathouse on Lake Charlevoix, 204 Water Street,
East Jordan. The event announcement says, “Join business owners and their team members from across Charlevoix County for an evening of great networking, food, and fun at East Jordan's lakeside event facility, The Boathouse on Lake Charlevoix.”
4TH OF JULY - The Boyne City 4th of July Committee is accepting nominations for their parade grand marshal. You are invited to email nomination letters to Committee Chair Jessica White, jessicaboyneace@gmail.com. The committee also invites everyone to enter floats (at no cost) for “The Best 4th in the North.” Here is the registration form.
| | City of Boyne City Municipal News | | |
STREET REPAIRS - From May 1-17, construction will begin on road improvement projects in Boyne City, including Vogel, First, and Main Streets. These streets will receive a chip and fog seal treatment - a preventative maintenance method that protects the road by sealing the surface, helping extend its life without needing full reconstruction. Traffic will be maintained with flaggers during the work, and no full road closures are planned. Please drive carefully and watch for workers in these areas.
SPRING RUBBISH PICK-UP is scheduled for Saturday, May 17. Households within city limits can set out a two-yard maximum of rubbish at their street curb to be picked up during the spring pick-up. It is recommended to set it out the night before, as pick up begins at 7 a.m. on May 17. Fall Rubbish Pick-up is scheduled for Sept. 20.
Some items not accepted for pick-up (full list):
- Items with freon (unless accompanied by a certificate of removal by a professional)
- Gas, oil, paint or antifreeze
- Engine or mechanical parts containing gas, oil or antifreeze fluid
- Batteries
- Tires
- Yard waste, lawn clippings, tree branches or brush
- Any combustible items
- No regular household garbage
CITY OFFICES WILL BE OPEN from 8 a.m. - 12 p.m. on Saturday, May 3 and Sunday, May 4 for the purpose of issuing and receiving absentee voter ballots ahead of the Tuesday, May 6, School Bond Election. If you prefer to vote in person, polls open at 7 a.m. on Tuesday, May 6. Find other election information including a sample ballot on the city website. The Boyne City Public Schools website includes details on the bond measure.
HELP WANTED - The City of Boyne City is hiring dock hands for the marina and seasonal summer laborers for the Department of Public Works. Applicants must be 18 years+. Details and application form.
CITY MEETINGS – Click here for board information, agendas, and minutes.
> City Commission's next regular meeting is at 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 13. Agenda page.
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 – 3 seats open
- Planning Commission
| | |
The Markarian Chain of galaxies in the constellation Virgo is a group of gravitationally-bound galaxies located approximately 60 million light-years away. The image also contains a number of fainter and more distant galaxies. The photo was taken at the Wildwood Observatory in Boyne City, Michigan, using a standard 135mm camera lens.
OUR NIGHT SKY
It’s Galaxy Season, the best season of the year!
By Rod Cortright, cortrigh@msu.edu
“Our Night Sky” is a monthly column by Rod Cortright, an amateur astronomer and astrophotographer who lives north of Boyne City. He is also a NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassador who does educational outreach for the agency. In the summer, Rod is a Sky Docent at the Headlands International Dark Sky Park.
“Galaxy Season” is a term often used by astronomers and astrophotography enthusiasts to describe the time of year when other galaxies are most visible and accessible for observation in the night sky. This period, which falls between March and May in the Northern Hemisphere, marks the time when the Milky Way’s dense core moves lower in the sky, providing a clearer view of deep-space objects beyond our galaxy. During this time, the night sky is dominated by galaxy-rich constellations such as Virgo, Leo and Coma Berenices, making it an ideal season for stargazers to observe and photograph distant galaxies.
The Markarian’s Chain is a striking stretch of galaxies located in the Virgo Cluster. This visually captivating formation appears as a graceful, curved line of galaxies in the night sky, with several of its members, including M84 and M86, gravitationally-bound and interacting. Situated roughly 50 to 60 million light-years from Earth, the chain is a popular target for both amateur and professional astronomers.
Astrophotographers and amateur astronomers look forward to Galaxy Season because the absence of the bright Milky Way core reduces light interference, making it easier to capture faint deep-sky objects. Many use telescopes with high focal lengths and cameras with long exposure times to reveal intricate galaxy structures, such as spiral arms, dust lanes, and glowing star-forming regions. Advanced imaging techniques, like stacking multiple exposures and post-processing, further enhance the details of these distant celestial bodies, allowing for breathtaking images of the cosmos.
Galaxy Season reminds us of the vastness of the universe and our place within it. Observing galaxies millions of light-years away offers a glimpse into the past, as the light from these distant objects has traveled for millions of years before reaching Earth.
| | Ephraim Shay, photo courtesy of the Harbor Springs Area Historical Society. | | Ephraim Shay, photo courtesy of the Bob Morgridge Collection. | | |
THROUGH THE HISTORIAN'S LENS
Ephraim Shay's little-known ties to Boyne City
| | |
By Patrick McCleary, Throughthehistorianslens@gmail.com
The Charlevoix County History Preservation Society
At the beginning of March, The Petoskey News-Review presented an interesting account of Harbor Springs’ “Hexagon House” and the efforts of the Harbor Springs Area Historical Society (HSAHS) to raise $3 million for its restoration.
Shay’s Hexagon House was donated to the Historical Society in 2016. Since that time, Executive Director Kristyn Balog and her dedicated team have not only raised the necessary funds to reinvigorate the home into a historical and cultural destination, they did so while maintaining and operating their Historical Society’s Museum space. For those who are looking for a historic destination, stop in to see Kristyn and her team in Harbor Springs’ former City Hall. Built in 1886, it is not only a repository for thousands of historic artifacts and memorabilia, but also a hub for interesting and informative programs.
HSAHS has also acquired a Shay Locomotive that will soon be delivered and installed in Shay Park, and exhibits are being built to be installed into the home. Shay’s Hexagon House will soon become the home of an innovative museum dedicated to famed inventor Ephriam Shay. Built by Shay himself, The Hexagon House has six rooms, and each one will feature an exhibit focused on an area of his life, including his work on locomotives, lumber, water, and more.
What many local residents may not be familiar with is that Ephraim Shay has a direct connection with the early history of the north side of Boyne City. Prior to being coined “Bay Springs” in 1883 by Hiram Chapman, North Boyne quickly became a bustling hub. John and Harriet Miller had resided in this area since their arrival in 1856. In 1874, a man by the name of Frank Abraham purchased land, erected a dock and stocked groceries and other goods in a small building that was built near it. He bartered for wood and bark from both white and native settlers and became quite involved in local civic and political affairs. By 1881, he had built and became the proprietor of the United States Hotel, once located on the southwest corner of South Park and Water Streets. Abraham was also a Justice of Peace.
Although it is difficult to pinpoint the exact dates, it was about this same time that Ephraim Shay came onto the scene. Shay was an inventor and most notable for his design of the Shay Locomotive. He owned a dock, sawmill and machine shop in North Boyne and is said to have done much of his early design work while residing here. Patented in 1881, Shay’s locomotive was operated by a gear-drive mechanism. This allowed the engines to have more traction power than previous designs, and to operate on tight curves and steep inclines. As a result, the locomotives were highly sought after by both logging and mining operations in Michigan and elsewhere.
Shay was born on July 17, 1839, the son of Irish immigrants James and Phoebe (Probasco) Shay. Although his time in North Boyne was short, he did help to leave an indelible mark. As his inventions gained popularity, he was required to move to other areas closer to his sites of production. As a result, he sold his sawmill and dock to L.C. Clayton of Cadillac. Clayton later went into partnership with William T. Addis. The two men operated the Shay’s former sawmill under the name Addis & Company.
To assist in the growth of their mill, Addis felt that there was a need for a railroad to run between North Boyne and Boyne Falls. There they could connect to the Grand Rapids & Indiana Railroad (GR&I RR) and ship their products throughout the state. By 1882 work had begun on what they were now calling the Spring Harbor & Boyne Falls Railroad. If all went well, the round trip was to take “a little more than two hours!”
According to the late Bob Morgridge, “Addis had two locomotives. Charles Rivers from Cadillac came and painted one. The inside of the cab was painted green and ‘the outside beautifully decorated with designs in yellow and red.’ On each side of the water tank were the words “Spring Harbor R.R.” Apparently, Addis had trouble with his Shay locomotive. In September of 1882, one of the engines was drawing a load of logs to be taken to a log pile at the mill. As the train was going down the grade to the mill, the engineer applied the brakes. They failed completely and the engineer jumped from the engine. Fortunately, the engine ran into the pile of logs, which stopped it. Otherwise, it would have gone into the lake!”
On Jan. 5, 1883, the Boyne City Standard complained that although “Ephraim Shay’s locomotives were doing well, the Manufacturers made a bad job of the one” owned by Addis.
By 1888, Ephraim Shay and family had settled at Harbor Springs, and he also made an indelible mark on that community, including his many-sided home, sheathed in steel plates. Shay is responsible for the building of the city’s waterworks, and his firm was also involved with boat and automobile designs over the years. Shay locomotives were produced in Lima, Ohio, and thousands were operated throughout the country and the world. He died in Harbor Springs April 20, 1916.
| | > 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. | | |
Thank you to the generous donors who are supporting local journalism and the Boyne Citizen!
> We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization
2025 Donors
| | |
The Hill Donors
$1000 - $4999
Kirk and Lynne Jabara
Avalanche Donors
$500 to $999
Stowe Family Fund
Lake Charlevoix Donors
$100 to $499
Bekah Rutz and David Osterhouse
Karen Colburn
Monica Peck
Karen S. Mertz
Betsy and Steve Schnell
Gary Coffer
Robin Stanley
Brett Binkley
Andy Schmittdiel
Gow Litzenburger
Ken Schrader
Terry and Marilyn Neilsen
Leslie Neilson
Lawrence Organek
Kyle Roberts
Gregg and Dee Smith
Ward Collins
Jo Ellen Rudolph
Gayle Harbaugh
Kristine Brehm
Christine A. Judd
Kevin and Marci Lavin
John Hoffman
Glen Catt
Beverly Neville
Jim and Kathe Carter
Penny Hardy
Jeanine Larsen
Cindy and Bill Binder
Richard Wright
Bill Aten
Jo and Ron Danczak
Marilyn A. and Jock Rader
Marcia and Howard Newkirk
Velma and Wes Dilworth
Gail and Ron Van Horn
The Frykberg Family
Tom Schraw and Pam Cislo
Richard M. Hodgson II
Miriam Hollar
Don Ryde
Catherine Bowers
Carl and Sally VanDomelen
Nord and Pat Schroeder
Sunset Beach Donors
$60- $99
Linda Larsen
Jack Laurent
Annabelle Hay
Kecia Freed
Kirk Kujawski
Vera Post
(continued next column)
| | |
Sunset Beach Donors (continued)
$60 to $99
Polly Stillson
William Conklin
Marilyn Cousineau
Rebecca Miller
JoEllen Rudolph
Lynn Hall
Hylon Heaton III
Cheryl J. Leach
Julie Haase
David J. Graham
Julie Tokar
James Graves
Ken Allen
Clarence Rivette
Pat and Emil Nelson
"Friends of the Boyne Citizen"
Wirt-Rivette Group & MOXIE Development
Terry and Betty Desmond
Kathy Breedlove
Louis Califf
Paige Crim
Linda Wallace
Eleanor West
Bill and Dee Kelly
Dana Lorian and Ryan Hoenicke
Sharon Kemp
John Betts
Capt. Bob Goodenough
Peninsula Beach Donors
$59 and under
Deborah Schira
Sheri Rhoads
Joel Epstein
Brian and Emily Tappan
Elizabeth Brett
Cheryl Alger
Carole Shane and Michael Shell
Lucy Hartlove
Mitchell and Carly Klooster
Michelle Archer
Rebekah Rutz
Josephine Roberts
Kathleen Warner
Kathy Fruge
Rodger and Janet Smith
Mark Christensen
Janice Salisbury
Jim Nielsen
Lynne Johnson
Richard and Gayle Bouters
John Miett
Alex Dailey
Ron Pool
Babette Stenuis Stolz
William H. Gilbert
| | |
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.
> 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.
> Tuesday, May 20- Bike & Car Night kicks off for the season at 6 p.m.
BOYNE ARTS CENTER. 1 Water Street, Suite 203, Boyne City. (231) 622-2073.
> Upcoming classes and exhibits:
BOYNE CITY FARMERS MARKET. Indoors in the pavilion at Veterans Park, 207 N. Lake Street, Boyne City. (231) 582-9009. Vendor application for summer.
> Open Saturdays 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
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 RIVER INN. 229 Water St., Boyne City, 231-222-4053.
Thursday, May 1 - Lou Thumser, 6-9 p.m.
Friday, May 2 - Jesse Jefferson, 6-9 p.m.
Saturday, May 3 - Donald Benjamin, 6-9 p.m.
BOYNE VALLEY VINEYARDS. 05325 US 131 S, Petoskey, (231) 373-2090.
> LIVE MUSIC - Saturdays 2-6 p.m.
Saturday, May 3 - Nelson Ostrum
Saturday, May 10 - Michelle Chenard
Saturday, May 17 - Two Track Mind
CAFE SANTE. 1 Water St., Boyne City, (231) 582-8800.
> LIVE MUSIC
Mondays through May 19 - The Shifties, 6-9 p.m.
Friday, May 2nd - The Fridays, 7-10 p.m.
Saturday, May 3rd - Brett Mitchell, 7-10 p.m.
Friday, May 9th - Pete Kehoe, 7-10 p.m.
Saturday, May 10th - Chris Calleja, 7-10 p.m.
Friday, May 16th - Chris Calleja, 7-10 p.m.
Saturday, May 17th - Peter Jensen, 7-10 p.m.
Friday, May 23rd - Lavender Lions Duo, 7-10 p.m.
Saturday, May 24th - Sean Bielby, 7-10 p.m.
Friday, May 30th - Pete Kehoe and Friends (15th anniversary party), 7-10 p.m.
Saturday, May 31st - The Cabana Boys (15th anniversary party), 7-10 p.m.
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 Dr., Petoskey, (231) 439 -2600.
SUMMER/FALL CONCERT SERIES:
May 25 - The Doo Wop Project
June 13 - Deana Carter
June 21 - Get Loud Entertainment Presents: Infinity
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
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.
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 8 to 11 p.m.
Friday, May 2 - David Lawston
Friday, May 9 - Kevin Johnson
Monday, May 12 - Bloomin' Sanity Happy Hour is planned for 5-7 p.m. The “Pause Breathe Proceed” organizers invite you to join them to celebrate spring, women and mental wellness. “Join us for a wildflower night of sisterhood to kick the insanity of stress, anxiety and self doubt. Bloom into a new way of living with a new way of thinking!”
Friday, May 16 - Eric Jaqua
Saturday, May 17 - DJ T-Bone
Friday, May 23 - Jakey T
Friday, May 30 - Sean Bielby
PENINSULA PARK EVENT CENTER, 5 W. Main Street, Boyne City, (231) 881-5192, peninsulaparkevents@gmail.com. The Event Center space is available to rent for public and private events including parties, fundraisers, entertainment, classes and meetings.
PROVISIONS LOUNGE. 123 Water St., Boyne City, (231) 582-2151.
LIVE MUSIC, 6-8 p.m. Tuesdays and Saturdays
RED MESA GRILL.117 Water St, Boyne City, (231) 582-0049.
LIVE MUSIC 6-9 p.m. on Tuesdays.
Tuesday, May 6 - Buddha Sweet
Tuesday, May 13 - Sean Bielby
Tuesday, May 20 - Hazel James Band
Tuesday, May 27 - Project 6
STIGGS BREWERY & KITCHEN. 112 S. Park St., Boyne City, (231) 497-6100
> May 7 and the first Wednesday of the month - Open Mic Nights hosted by Nelson Olstrom, 6-9 p.m.
> May 10 and the second Saturday of the month - Karaoke with DJ T-Bone Thompson from 8-11 p.m.
> Friday, May 9 - Stiggs Feed A Friend & Gypsy Distillery unite for community support from 7-10 PM for a night of Michigan music, benefitting local families in need. All proceeds will provide nutritious food and essential supplies to Northern Michigan households. Featuring award-winning jazz vocalist Olivia Van Goor and talented local artists Lee Fayssoux, Owen James, Laura Crowe, and more. General admission $35, VIP Meet and Greet $50, limited availability from 6 6:45 PM. Tickets.
WALLOON JUNCTION GRILL AND BAR. 4472 M-75, Walloon Lake, (231) 535-6006.
> Roller skating party 2-6 p.m. Saturday, May 10 and 17. $8 admission, $2 rentals.
| | © Copyright 2025 Boyne Citizen, all rights reserved | | | | |
