January 23, 2025 | Issue #19 | Past issues

Thrift store shopping

Boyne City features a nice collection of consignment, donation, and thrift-based retailers. Reporter Geri Dietze has the lowdown and guess what - they're good for the planet and the pocketbook! (See story below.)

Inside this issue

• Boyne Citizen progress report and reader survey
• Who loves this weather? Ice skaters, ice fishermen and more
• Heather DuBey of Boyne City dies in Hwy 131 crash
• Fight consumerism with thrift stores and a Facebook group
• Pure Michigan partners with Shaggy’s on a Michigan-made ski
• Patrick McCleary history: Christ Evangelical Lutheran
• Obituaries, including Heather DuBey
• Thanks to the donors who keep the news coming!
• Music and entertainment listings

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Citizen progress report and reader survey

The Boyne Citizen passed the three-month mark at the beginning of the year, and we’re ready to ask for your input on a brief reader survey. First we’d like to give you an update on our progress:

• We have added more than 1,300 subscribers since our first issue on September 3.
• Our email open rate is a healthy 80%.
• Subscriptions are free, with more than 200 readers making optional donations to our 501c3 nonprofit organization.
• The Charlevoix County Community Foundation donated more than $12,000 to help us along.

> Click here to take our brief reader survey.

Citizen looks to expand team of writers and board members 

The Boyne Citizen is looking to expand our team of paid freelance writers. Check the information below if you’re interested.

> Freelance writer responsibilities.

> Freelance writers fillable application form.

The Boyne Citizen is looking to expand its board of directors. We’d like to add some area residents who are interested in supporting and directing our new local news source. Our website lists our editor and current board members - Hugh Conklin, Michelle Cortright and Jamie Baumann. Check the information below if you’re interested.

> Board member responsibilities.

> Board member fillable application form.

City DPW workers sweep the Avalanche ice rink to keep it smooth.

Aaron Reynolds is “the ice fishing guy” at Boyne Co-op Hardware

Ice skaters, ice fishermen and Winter Festival planners love this cold weather

“What good is the warmth of summer, without the cold of winter to give it sweetness.” 

- John Steinbeck

By Jim Baumann, jim@boynecitizen.com

Northern Michigan has just endured its coldest days of the winter and it’s been difficult for some, but ice skaters, ice fishermen and winter event planners are pretty happy about it.

Last year, the ice skating rink at Avalanche Preserve was open for just a few days during the mild winter. But this year the rink opened January 3rd and three weeks later it’s going strong with no end in sight. The weather forecast shows one day with a high temperature of 32 in the next 10 days.

Lacey Kotalik, the warming house attendant, regularly promotes the ice rink on Facebook. “Avalanche Preserve Warming House is home to the region's most epic outdoor rink, and we're throwing a party...every day! Join the fun with free tunes and hot cocoa, all thanks to the generosity of Boyne City's community. And don't worry if you didn't bring your skates, I've got you covered with loaner sleds and skates in sizes youth 8 to adult 13, plus SkateMates for those who need a little extra support.”

The City of Boyne City Department of Public Works - mainly Travis Lapeer - keeps the rink frozen by spraying water and running an automated sweeper over the surface.

The warming house is open 4-9 p .m. Monday-Friday p.m. and 11 a.m.-9 p.m. on Saturdays, Sundays, holidays and school snow days.

Another local who’s happy with the cold snap is Aaron Reynolds, who describes himself as “the ice fishing guy” at Boyne Co-op Hardware in downtown Boyne City. “Our store owners, Jennifer and Rusty, are great to work with,” he says. “They take my word for it and they order what I recommend and we sell it. We’ve really upped our game on ice fishing.”

Reynolds says people have been calling the store constantly since cold temperatures have been common. “How’s the ice,” they ask, because they don’t want to drive up north from downstate if the lakes aren’t frozen enough to fish. Reynolds views his role as an ice fishing guru of sorts because he’s in position to be that, and he’s glad to help. 

“People ask me where to go, and I always ask people where they’re going. They don’t always like to tell me what they’re catching, but they tell me where they’re going.” 

Right now he said Thumb Lake has been popular because fishermen are catching splake and pike. Other popular spots are the South Arm of Lake Charlevoix, Six Mile Lake, and Otsego Lake, which freezes before other area lakes because it is at a higher elevation.

Here’s one of Reynolds’ recent posts on Facebook: “Here at Boyne Co-Op we have all your bait needs for your next fishing outing. Freshly restocked with perch minnows, bass and walleye shiners, and even pike suckers. Come check us out next time you need bait. Or maybe your snowmobile trail permit. We got that covered too.”

Reynolds said “Some guys are ice fishing every day, and I see them three or four times a week when they buy bait. Others just come in on the weekends and others just want to teach their kids how to ice fish. I really support ice fishing because I think it’s better for kids than playing video games."

Who else loves this weather? Snowmobilers, who had a disappointing year in 2024, and fans of the famous ice pole in Sunset Park in downtown Boyne City. 

Boyne Mountain skiers may be hoping for a little warm-up, but with a foot of recent natural powder, conditions are great there and on area cross-country ski and mountain biking trails. Volunteers regularly groom the non-motorized trails at Avalanche and on the Boyne Valley Trail, which runs from the Boyne City Airport to Boyne Mountain and the Village of Boyne Falls. 

Other folks who are cheering for cold weather are the organizers of the 2025 Boyne City Winter Festival on Saturday, Feb. 22. It will be held in Veterans Park in downtown Boyne City and it’s a benefit for the Waterfront Field of Dreams project - “a family-friendly event that also supports a great cause.”

Start the day with a Pancake Breakfast, as well as a stroll at the Boyne City Farmers Market. Breakfast is by donation and you can enjoy pancakes, scrambled eggs, bacon, and more from 8 a.m.-12 p.m.

After breakfast, get ready for the 4th Annual Waterfront Field of Dreams Polar Plunge, when participants will be plunging promptly at noon. This year, the event promises to be bigger and better than ever before, with participants already registering from all over Michigan. Take the “Plunge for a Purpose” and you can encourage your friends, family, or co-workers to sponsor you.  

Once you've taken the plunge, warm up with the best chili in town at the Chili Cook-Off. You can be the judge and help choose the winner of the "Boyne City's Best Chili - 2025" award. The Chili Cook-Off is by donation this year. To learn more about how you can help contribute or volunteer for the Winter Festival, visit www.waterfrontfieldofdreams.com. 

A few miles down Highway M75, Walloon Winterfest is planned for the same day, Saturday, February 22. Join that festival at the Talcott Event Center for a day of family-friendly events - a free bean pot, vintage snowmobiles, local beer and wine tasting, live ice carving, raffles, and giveaways. Stay tuned for more details.

Former city DPW director Tim Faas volunteers to groom the Boyne Valley Trail, which runs from the Boyne City Airport to Boyne Mountain and the Village of Boyne Falls.



Our cold January means the ice pole is growing and growing in Sunset Park.

Heather DuBey dies in Highway 131 crash

Boyne City resident Heather DuBey, 49, was killed in a vehicle crash on U.S. 131 early Monday afternoon Jan. 20. 

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, Feb. 8, at the Lake City United Methodist Church, 301 John St, Lake City, at 11 a.m. Visitation will be at the church beginning at 10 a.m with a luncheon to follow. Here is her obituary information.

Troopers from the Michigan State Police Gaylord Post said the crash occurred on US-131 near Corey Road in Chestonia Township. A preliminary investigation indicates a 2022 Chrysler Voyager was being driven northbound on US-131 by Heather DuBey. A 2012 GMC Acadia was headed southbound on US-131 driven by a 22-year-old woman from Mancelona.

Heather DuBey

The driver of the Chrysler lost control, crossed the centerline, and struck the GMC. 

The driver of the Chrysler was killed, and the driver of the GMC was transported to McLaren Northern Michigan hospital in Petoskey with non-life-threatening injuries. Alcohol and drugs are not believed to be a factor in the crash. The crash remains under investigation.

Thrifting steps up to fight consumerism with 3 stores in Boyne City and a Facebook group

By Geri Dietze, gdietze27@gmail.com

Americans are shoppers, and in a big way. Relentless marketing and advertising push us to buy more, and buy often. But movements getting us to recycle and repurpose continue to find traction and for good reason. According to earth.org, 92 million metric tons of discarded clothing alone end up in landfills annually, so shopping for previously owned items makes a big dent in carbon emissions and dramatically reduces the carbon footprint.

Clearly, overconsumption seems like an unsustainable model, both for the pocketbook and the planet. No matter what it’s called - the science of global warming, a media hoax, or Armageddon - the result is the same: The planet is not doing well and overconsumption is very hard on our ecosystems. 

Luckily for us, Boyne City has a collection of consignment, donation, and thrift-based retailers aiming to be part of the solution.

Challenge Mountain Resale Shop: A great location, for a great cause

Boyne City’s oldest thrift, founded in 1986, is a lucrative primary fundraising source for Challenge Mountain, the non-profit providing indoor and outdoor adaptive experiences for those living with disabilities. The store is a labor of love, sustained by a small army of mostly volunteer labor. It’s also a hub of retail activity, carefully and thoughtfully arranged, with a solid customer base of fashionistas, bargain hunters, treasure seekers, and families with growing children.

“We get a lot of great clothing,” store manager Staci Payton says, “and we want families to benefit from the low prices.” Toys, too, are priced low, for the littles. But Challenge Mountain Resale has far more to offer, including books and movies, art and frames, small appliances and housewares, skis and golf clubs. And while not all donations are accepted (nobody wants an old TV), Payton says that “if it’s for your home, we have it, from clothing to power washers.”

Come in for the bargains but stay for the unexpected bonanzas: A set of still-in-the-box Tommy Bahama dining chairs, for example. Some donations are more unusual: “We received a transit-style bus,” Payton explains, after a grandfather bought it for shuttling the grandkids, but cooler heads prevailed. (His wife said “absolutely not,” and so the bus awaits its perfect owner. Road trip, anyone?) 

> Challenge Mountain Resale Store - 1100 Boyne Avenue, 231-582-6966, Monday through Saturday 9:30 a.m.- 5:30 p.m. Donations are accepted Tuesdays and Fridays from 9:30am until full. To learn more about the Challenge Mountain mission and how you can donate and help, visit challengemtn.org.

Home Again: Upscale resale with a purpose

Charlevoix Area Humane Society Executive Director Scott McKenzie doesn’t want credit for Home Again becoming a reality, but his experience in auctions and antiques, plus his awareness of another shelter using the upscale model, made him see resale as an important revenue stream to further the society’s mission.

It took some time, but eventually he was able to convince the board, and to find an appropriate location, at a “very fair and reasonable rate,” (Thank you, Bob and Liz Kroondyk, for this downtown storefront.) “The location is absolutely perfect,” says McKenzie, adding that it “has been turning a profit since the beginning.”

At Home Again, you will find both high-end and antique furniture, crystal and silver, costume and fine jewelry, artifacts collected by world travelers, plus collectible art of all kinds. In the market for a silver plate English Victorian-era samovar? Or an oil painting from Italian American artist Nicholas Briganti? (His work can fetch 5K at auction, so this is a deal at $2,500.) 

Browse the room dedicated to coffee table books and lots of vintage vinyl. (Discophiles may listen to albums before purchase.) Not to forget the mission of Home Again, the pet room offers new and gently used pet supplies and lifestyle accessories. And, look for portraits and bios of sweet adoptable pets displayed throughout the space.

Home Again does not compete with local thrift stores, but its inventory is priced at “one-half to one-third of fair market value,” so customers will find good value and even some bargains. (A rare piece of 1920’s Weller pottery went for well below its estimated value of $265, but McKenzie is philosophical. “It’s all part of the game and the risk of resale.”) 

> Home Again - 118 Water St, 231-497-5008, Open daily 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call the store to see if they are interested in accepting possible donations. homeagaincahs.org.

Forgotten Treasures: Consignment is a win-win

Anna Burkhart is a second-generation thrift store operator, having learned the business from her mother, and the experience shows. Forgotten Treasures is carefully curated and uses every inch of its 2,000 square feet to maximum effect with an amazing variety of merchandise.

“Customers love our mix of housewares, collectibles and antiques,” she says. And it is, indeed, a mix. While you’re shopping for a new outfit, you might also find an attractive display featuring a nicely tooled saddle with silver accents - sold- - and riding helmet. Or a cabinet of china and porcelain collectibles, a selection of vintage books, or small furniture pieces.

Look for extensive racks of name brand clothing for children and adults, including J Crew, Free People, Patagonia, North Face, L.L. Bean, Lululemon, and Carhartt, plus many more. There is always a good selection of accessories and purses, including designer names at attractive price points. “We move a lot of clothing through our store,” Burkhart says.

Consignment shopping offers value and selection, not always found with a donation-based retailer, and experienced shoppers know that the items are fairly priced and yield substantial savings. Burkhart says that daily consignment drop-offs vary. “We do limit the amount that consignors can bring in each week,” she said. “We put out roughly 150-200 new pieces daily.” She adds, “This area is filled with amazing consignors who have brought us a range of wonderful and amazing pieces in all areas throughout the years.”

Even though the store is seemingly filled to capacity, Forgotten Treasures is staying put. “My location is where I want to be, and this location has been great for business,” Burkhart says. “We have expanded in other ways by creating our website to make items readily available for purchase, as well as creating a larger social media presence to highlight new items in store.” And, don’t forget that Forgotten Treasures has gift certificates available. 

> Forgotten Treasures Consignment - 209 S Lake St, 231-268-4220, open daily 10a.m. to 5 p.m., closed Sunday. ftconsign.com.

Buy Nothing: It can’t get any easier than this

“I am a minimalist, and if things start to get cluttered, I take items to resale shops or give to others,” explains Boyne native Sydney Binkley, who lives in town with her husband and 7-month-old son. “I hate to throw away perfectly good items that could be used for several more years by someone else.” 

The result of this worldview is the Boyne City Buy Nothing Facebook group, an online Boyne City swap meet. The concept has national and international reach, aimed at reducing overconsumption and encouraging repurposing.

The idea behind “Buy Nothing” is simple: If you have something to give, post it on the site. If you need something, ask for it. Everything is free, and monetary value is never mentioned. There are rules for participants, and each member and post are approved beforehand. 

When Binkley started the page in September 2024, it was to give away some items that she didn’t want to end up in a landfill, during Boyne’s twice-yearly curbside collection, after she noticed that people were often carrying away good items ahead of the trash trucks. 

The site “blew up when it was first created,” she says, adding that it now has nearly 700 members, “and new member requests come in every day.” Binkley has two friends who help manage the website, and she will often collect and deliver items herself, depending on the circumstances.

Children’s clothing, toys, and necessities are big on the site. “We all know how quickly children outgrow clothing, so I love to see those items posted,” she said. And she contributes herself, including a brand-new diaper bag filled with newborn essentials like Swaddles, baby formula, and bottles. “I would love to see more items like these being shared, because you wouldn’t find them in a thrift shop, and it shouldn’t cost money for someone who needs these items.”  

Any usable item is welcome, from furniture to household items, as well as more unusual items. For example, the site recently featured a beautiful Mathushek piano, a gem from German piano maker Frederick Mathushek, who worked in the second half of the 19th century. 

> Visit the Buy Nothing site on Facebook. New members have to request permission to join.

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Pure Michigan partners with Shaggy’s to create limited edition Michigan-made ski

Press release from Pure Michigan: Michigan has a long and storied history of snow sports and winter recreation. Some of the earliest examples of organized skiing took place in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula in the late 1800s. The first chairlift in the Midwest carried skiers to the top of Boyne Mountain in 1948. The “Snurfer” – which inspired the first snowboards – was invented in Muskegon in 1965.

More innovations in ski lifts, snowmaking technology, and recreation equipment followed as skiing and winter sports grew in popularity across the country. Today, Michigan is home to the second-most ski areas of any state, drawing millions of visitors each winter to explore the state’s winter wonderland.

To complement its 2024-25 winter “Keep It Fresh” campaign, Pure Michigan is celebrating Michigan’s rich skiing heritage and wealth of snow sports opportunities by partnering with Shaggy’s Skis to create a Pure Michigan branded ski, now available for purchase on the Shaggy’s website at skishaggys.com.

“Snow sports and family ski vacations have been an integral part of Michigan’s winter traditions for generations,” said Kelly Wolgamott, Vice President of Pure Michigan, part of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. “We are thrilled to partner with an innovative company like Shaggy’s to create this limited-edition Pure Michigan ski to celebrate winter recreation and inspire visitors and Michiganders alike to experience winter fun in Pure Michigan.”

Brothers Jeff and Jonathon Thompson started building skis in Michigan as a hobby in 2005, and in 2008 the Thompson family released the first line of Shaggy's skis to the public. The limited-edition Pure Michigan skis will be manufactured at the company’s factory in Boyne City, Michigan, where every pair of Shaggy’s skis is handcrafted. Learn more about the Shaggy’s story and the collaboration with Pure Michigan in this video.

“To me, Pure Michigan represents the beauty of our state, the tenacity of our people, and the pride of where we’re from,” said Jeff Thompson, co-founder of Shaggy’s. “We are proud to put the iconic Pure Michigan branding on our custom skis that we build right here in Michigan. The goal is to show our product, our state to the world. And now, when you look down at your skis, you’re going to be able to see that pride in Pure Michigan.”

The design for the limited-edition skis features iconic Michigan destinations like Tahquamenon Falls and Turnip Rock paired with Pure Michigan branding. The special-edition Pure Michigan design will be available across all 16 models of the Shaggy’s skis lineup.

“Embracing and enjoying the winter season exemplify the beauty and excitement of our four-season Pure Michigan lifestyle,” said Quentin L. Messer, Jr., CEO of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. “This collaboration with Shaggy’s goes well beyond promoting the tremendous winter recreation we have here in Michigan - it connects the Pure Michigan brand with our Make It in Michigan economic development strategy by supporting a homegrown small business that delivers a product that helps all of us better enjoy visiting and living in our state’s two wonderful peninsulas. Another risk-taking entrepreneur delivering value to customers while creating opportunities. That’s a Pure Michigan story.”

A Pure Michigan Winter Giveaway

To celebrate the release of the special-edition Pure Michigan design, Shaggy’s is giving away a Pure Michigan Ski Package, including one pair of Shaggy’s Pure Michigan skis in the model and length of the winner’s choice, four lift tickets at Caberfae Peaks, a $100 gift card for Pure Michigan apparel from The Mitten State, and a $300 swag pack from Boyne Country Sports. Snow sports enthusiasts are encouraged to learn more and enter at skishaggys.com/PureMichigan through Friday, Jan. 31. The winner will be announced on Monday, Feb. 3.

For those interested in seeing the special-edition Pure Michigan skis in person, Shaggy’s will have the skis on display at Shaggy’s demo days at ski areas and resorts throughout Michigan this winter.

• Saturday, Jan. 25 - Shanty Creek Resorts
• Saturday, Feb. 1 - Nub's Nob
• Saturday, Feb. 8 - Marquette Mountain
• Saturday, Feb. 15 - Crystal Mountain
• Saturday, Feb. 22 - Mt Holly
• Saturday, March 1 - Caberfae Peaks

NLEA outdoor recreation panel discussion features Shaggy’s founder on Feb. 11

Shaggy’s Copper Country Skis co-founder and engineer Jeff Thompson will be one of the featured speakers at a Northern Lake Economic Alliance Catalyst Conversations event on Tuesday, Feb. 11. The event will be hosted at the Cheboygan-Otsego-Presque Isle ESD Building at 6065 Learning Lane, Indian River. Morning refreshments will be provided. Register online here; admission is $25. 

A panel of outdoor manufacturers, service providers, and access facilitators will explore the challenges and opportunities for the outdoor industry in Northern Lower Michigan. will be hosted in Cheboygan County and explore the regional outdoor recreation industry. In 2023, Michigan's outdoor industry generated $13.9 billion in GDP. The industry represents more than just tourism, it includes the individuals and businesses designing, developing, and delivering the tools and gear of the great outdoors. Featured speakers include:

• Jeff Thompson – co-founder and engineer, Shaggy’s Copper Country Skis and Thompson Pickleball.
• Brad Garmon – executive director, Michigan Office of Outdoor Recreation Industry at the MEDC.
• Bob Murdock – Howe Marine.
• Jennifer Dowker – owner and operator, Nautical North Family Adventures.

BC Main Street issues 2025 impact report

The highly anticipated 2025 edition of the Boyne City Main Street Impact Report has just hit the digital shelves, and it's packed with insights, achievements, detailing lots of accomplishments. Main Street Executive Director Ingrid Day said, “This report is your backstage pass to a year filled with community spirit, innovation, and growth. We are proud to continue our partnership with Michigan Main Street, and grateful for their support in compiling this report with us.” Read the full report here. 

BOARD OPENING - Are you passionate about making a positive impact on our community? We are looking for a dedicated and visionary individual to fill an open seat on the Main Street Board of Directors for a one-year term. Your commitment will involve becoming familiar with our purposes and activities, monthly board meetings and the opportunity to serve on a board committee.

What we’re looking for:

● Enthusiastic community members

● A commitment to the growth and success of Main Street

Why join?

● Collaborate with like-minded leaders

● Help shape the future of Boyne City Main Street

HOW TO APPLY - Fill out this application and either drop us a hard copy (113 S. Lake) or email to mainstreet@boynecity.com. The application deadline is February 20. For questions, call 231-582-9009.

Great Lakes Energy hosts Feb. 12 Business After Hours

The Boyne Area Chamber invites the community to join them for an evening of networking at Great Lakes Energy on Wednesday, Feb. 12, from 5:30-7 p.m. Discover the programs and services provided by Great Lakes Energy, as well as Truestream, their exceptional fiber internet division. As a long-time supporter of the community, Great Lakes Energy is thrilled to co-host this event alongside Boyne City Public Schools and Char-Em ISD.

These three chamber members collaborate to offer an innovative electric lineworker education program at Boyne City High School. This program is one of many career and technical education (CTE) initiatives led by Char-Em ISD.

Food and drinks will be provided with catering by the Boyne City High School culinary arts program, which is another CTE program. Great Lakes Energy is located at 1323 Boyne Avenue in Boyne City. 

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Boyne Area News Briefs

COLLEGE GROUNDBREAKING - North Central Michigan College invites the community to a groundbreaking ceremony for Phase II of its Career and Technical Education Enhancement (CATEE) project on Monday, Feb. 3, at 2 p.m. The event will be held in the Borra Learning Center Student Commons on NCMC’s Petoskey campus. The $22 million CATEE initiative marks a transformative step toward advancing workforce education in Northern Michigan. Phase II includes the expansion and renovation of the Jack and Dorothy Harris Health Education and Science Center and the creation of the Martin Jahn Technology Center. Together, these facilities will provide cutting-edge learning environments for students pursuing careers in healthcare, technology, and skilled trades. Full press release.

FREE CLINIC FUND-RAISER - The Boyne City Eagles are hosting a “Left Right Center” fundraiser from 5-8 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 25 to benefit the Boyne City Free Clinic. Admission is $20 per person. Organizers say, “You do not need to know how to play this card game, we will teach you!” 

City of Boyne City Municipal News

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

• Airport Board – 2 seats open
• Economic Development Corporation (EDC) / Local Development Finance Authority (LDFA) - 1 seat open.
• Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) – 3 seats open
• Housing Commission – 1 resident position open
• Parks and Recreation Commission – 2 positions open

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

> City Commission's next regular meeting is at 12 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 28.

Obituaries

Heather DuBey

October 17, 1975 ~ January 20, 2025 (age 49)

Freda Marie Kullik

August 13, 1922 ~ January 20, 2025 (age 102)

Boyne City’s Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church, located at the corner of South Lake and Lincoln Streets, as it looked shortly after its completion in 1912. Note that the landscape surrounding the building still appears to not yet have been addressed. This original photograph, taken by early Boyne City jeweler and photographer Lothario “Ray” Chase, is part of the Patrick McCleary Collection.

THROUGH THE HISTORIAN'S LENS

Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church and other early churches played an integral role

By Patrick McCleary, Throughthehistorianslens@gmail.com

The Charlevoix County History Preservation Society

The full story of Boyne City lies within a plethora of tales and events which cross paths with one another and take place throughout our city’s long and diverse past. Not only through industries and businesses, but through the lives of the people who made things happen. Something that many don’t realize today is the important role that Boyne City’s early churches played in the development of Boyne. These congregations (in particular the ladies of these churches) played an integral role in promoting and funding our city’s early progress. 

Boyne City’s Lutheran congregation was organized on January 3, 1909, within the walls of the little church located next to what is today the Boyne District Library. That same little church had formerly sat across the street from its present location and served as Boyne’s second-earliest schoolhouse; home to the Methodist congregation; then moved to its present location and put to use by the Latter-Day Saints. At the time of the Lutheran church’s organization, Rev. Charles Panhorst (1874-1959) of Petoskey came to Boyne City each week to preside over a growing number of like-minded congregates. They formed under the name of Christ Lutheran Church. 

Prior to this, services for this denomination were held in private homes by the Rev. William H. Schweppe, assumed to be an itinerant pastor. The homes used for these private services were those of Frederick W. Benser (1881-1961); Frederick Kurtz (1872-1945), Henry T. Nemitz (1877-1966), Herman Mayer, and Robert Jenks (1874-1939.) The charter members who organized this church were: Frederick Benser, Frederick Kurtz, John W. Krumm and Gustav Manthei. 

In 1911 the Rev. Charles Panhorst left, and the Rev. Oswald H. Trinklein (1887-1977) served the congregation faithfully for two years and then accepted a call to St. Mark’s congregation in New York City. Under his pastorate in Boyne City the congregation bought five lots on the corner of Division and Pleasant Avenue, from K.E. Knowles on February 15, 1912. Who this K.E. Knowles was remains a mystery. However, he appears to have been some relation to the lawyer and land broker Leonard F. Knowles, who had married Florence Beardsley, daughter of early Boyne City businessman Alfred J. Beardsley (1853-1919.)

The congregation only owned the Division Street lots for 40 days, and then the lots were sold to E. C. Mayor on March 26. On May 7, 1912, the present church lot, situated on the corner of South Lake and Lincoln Streets, was purchased from Robert H. Jenks.

Rev. Charles Panhorst and his wife, Caroline Maria Christine Heidel, taken on their wedding day. Courtesy of the Patrick McCleary Collection.

The congregation wasted no time in organizing a building committee, and construction quickly began under the auspices of Frederick Kurtz*, Robert Jenks and William Knop. Under their leadership the building was completed, and the cornerstone was laid in the summer of 1912. The total cost of the church was $4,789.69. 

[* For our history buffs out there, you may recognize the name Frederick Kurtz, also known as the “Flying Dutchman” of local train lore. Kurtz is said to have been given the nickname in part for his Dutch ancestry but also for the fast rate of speed in which he drove his locomotive.] 

The Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church was dedicated on June 16, 1912. A large crowd gathered that afternoon at 2 p.m. to witness the laying of the cornerstone. It was quite a community event and, according to the headline in Boyne City’s Evening Journal newspaper, “Great interest was manifested in historical articles sealed up in the stone.”

“Upon the outer side of the stone were engraved the words: Evangelical Lutheran Christ Church, A.D. 1912, and inside were placed the following articles: A constitution and history of the congregation, a Catechism, and a hymn book. There were also lists containing the names of the members, the church council, the pastor, and the Sunday School teachers; the number of Sunday School scholars, the names of the building committee, a Synodical report and other church papers, the name of the President of the United States, the Governor of Michigan, and the Mayor of Boyne City, and copies of both The Evening Journal and The Times.”

“The articles were handed by Rev. J.C. Trinklain, the pastor, to Robert Jenks, a member of the building committee, who placed them in the stone, which was then sealed by Mr. Hughes of East Jordan. After solemnizing these rites, the congregation gathered on the platform of the new building, where a special service for the laying of the cornerstone was held and presided over by Rev. Trinklein. It was a great disappointment that the orchestra was unable to be present, but the rest of the meeting was reported as very interesting and beneficial. Mrs. Rev. Panhorst of Petoskey assisted with the singing, and the meeting was closed with a benediction and prayer of thanks unto the Lord.” 

Rev. Oswald H. Trinklein (1887-1977) served the congregation faithfully for two years and then accepted a call to St. Marks congregation in New York City. He was known to send personal invitations to services and was very well thought of by his congregation. This original invitation, written on the reverse of a real picture postcard (RPPC) of the church is courtesy of the Patrick McCleary collection.

THE LATER YEARS

Boyne City Lutheran Church celebrated its 40th anniversary of the founding of their congregation in 1949 with a special service held on Sunday, Sept. 18th. Rev. Albert E. Kraeger, pastor of the Boyne church from 1936 to 1941. was the speaker that day. I have been told that while under the auspices of Rev. Sattelmeier, several repairs were made to the parsonage in 1949. A Saturday Christian Training School was also opened for children within the community, classes being held in the church basement. 

From this point forward, I know very little. It is here that I ask our readers and our community to assist in documenting both the early and later years of this very important part of Boyne City’s local history. Can anyone enlighten me on where the Lutheran parsonage was located? If you have information, photographs or other information pertaining to anyone mentioned herein, please reach out. Following is a list of the known ministers to serve this denomination. I’m sure that some of you can share names of clergy who served here after 1949. I welcome any and all information. Thank you. 

KNOWN CLERGY and notes for Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church, Boyne City

• Rev. William Heinrich Schweppe (1872-1951) -  Itinerant of Traverse City
• Clara (Brandhorst) Schweppe (1875-1953)
• Rev. Charles Albert Panhorst (1874-1959)
• Caroline Maria Christine (Heidel) Panhorst (1876-1961)
• Rev. Oswald Herman Trinklein (1887-1977)
• Mathilde (Wischhusen) Trinklein (1893-1992)
• Rev. Ernest Franz Paul Hutfilz (1887-1977) - of Traverse City
• Amanda (Warden) Hutfilz (1893-1919)
• Anna L. (Werner) Hutfilz (1890-1945)
• Rev. Martin Ludwig Luecke (1869-1943)- of Cadillac)
• Anna Elizabeth (Schroeder) Luecke (1880-1962)
• Rev. Balthasar Henry Succop (1864-1934)- Served until 1922
• Katherine M. (Riedel) Succop (1868-1936)
• Rev. W Opitz - Served until 1928
• Rev. Helmuth 
• Rev. Albert Edward Krueger (1910-1989) - Served from 1936-1941
• Margaret Martha (Golke) Krueger (1919-2011)
• Rev. Norman Herman Kuck (1912-1988) - Served from 1941-1949
• Dorothy E. (Behling) Kuck (1912-1991)
• Rev. Harold F. Krach (1920-2002) of Petoskey - served 2 months
• Anne Sophia (Windemuth) Krach (1925-2013)
• Rev. Ferdinand Friedrich Johann Sattelmeier (1908-1977)
• Wilma Magdalena (Koehler) Sattelmeier (1920-2010)

> Patrick McCleary is a Certified Genealogist affiliated with the Charlevoix County History Preservation Society (CCHPS), 12555 Taylor Road, Charlevoix, MI 49720. The CCHPS promotes the understanding and appreciation of the heritage of the people of Charlevoix County and its townships by seeking out, collecting, preserving, and interpreting artifacts of historical and cultural significance. For further information, contact Patrick by email: Throughthehistorianslens@gmail.com.

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MUSIC, ARTS, AND ENTERTAINMENT

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

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

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

Mondays - Sean Bielby

Tuesdays - Lara Fullford

Wednesdays - Pete Kehoe

Thursdays - Trivia & music by Holly Keller

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

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

> LIVE MUSIC

Saturday, Jan. 25 - Yankee Station, 8-11 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 1 - Country Thunder, 8-11 p.m.

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

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

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

> MY CLUE TRIVIA - Mondays 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 - Saturdays 2-6 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 25 - Chris Calleja

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

> LIVE MUSIC

Mondays - The Shifties, 6-9 p.m.

Friday, Jan. 24 - Chris Callleja, 7-10 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 25 - Brian T. McCosky, 7-10 p.m.

Friday, Jan.31 - Brett Mitchell, 7-10 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 1 - Brett Mitchell, 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.

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

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

Saturday, March 15 - Henhouse Prowlers. Founded two decades ago with the simple desire to play original and powerful bluegrass, this Chicago-bred quartet now finds themselves at the intersection of performance, diplomacy, and education.

Onstage, the group's enthralling performances give audiences a sense of how much they love what they do. On record – including their latest offering, 2023’s Lead and Iron, released via Dark Shadow Recording – the band explores their collective life experiences through songwriting and intricate instrumentation. While bluegrass is the undeniable foundation of the Prowlers’ music, the band bends and squeezes the traditional form into a keenly developed sound all their own.

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

> Friday, Jan. 24 - Andy Beningo brings his hilarious comedy to the Great Lakes Center For the Arts at 7 p.m. Known for his clean, feel-good humor and razor-sharp wit, Andy has been featured on Comedy Central, Drybar Comedy, and Sirius XM's Laugh USA. He will be joined by special guest Kate Brindle. Purchase tickets here.

> Friday, February 21 - Interlochen Arts Academy's Swan Lake, 7 p.m. Tickets.

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

> TRIVIA NIGHT - Wednesdays at 7 p.m.

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

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

> LIVE MUSIC 8 to 11 p.m.

Friday, Jan. 24 - Sean Bielby

Friday, Jan. 31 - Pete Fetters

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.

Tuesday, Jan. 28 - Hazel James Band

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

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

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

> Jelly Roll performs 8 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 25.

> Roller skating party 2-6 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 8 and second Saturday of every month. $8 admission, $2 rentals.

The Boyne Citizen

Email: jim@boynecitizen.com

Phone: 231-459-4166

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