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Afternoon at the Gazebo
Last week, we reported that the Boyne Chamber’s summer concerts would be moving back to the Gazebo in Old City Park. This week, columnist Patrick McCleary digs into the long history of free concerts and events in earlier gazebos at that park, dating back to the 1880s. This picture from around 1908 shows the original Boyne City Bandstand as it hosts Ernestine White’s birthday party. Ernestine was the daughter of Robert V. and Esther (Grenier) White. Photo courtesy of the White Family Collection.
> Scroll down to read Patrick’s column, which includes more pictures.
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Inside this issue
- Mayor challenges disqualification from city ballot
- Lofts on Lake property listed for sale at $2 million
- Waterfront Field is no longer just a dream
- School bond passes with 61% of vote
- Resort GM says "We want to be good stewards"
- Boyne Falls getting a traffic signal and a pot store
- Morel Mushroom Festival runs from May 15-18
- Planning Commission makes progress on Master Plan
- Patrick McCleary on the history of Gazebo concerts
- News briefs, Municipal News, Obituaries
- Thanks to the donors who keep the news coming!
- Music and entertainment listings
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Mayor challenges disqualification from city ballot
By Jim Baumann, jim@boynecitizen.com
Boyne City Mayor Tim Nemecek posted a press release on Facebook shortly before 5 p.m. Wednesday, challenging his disqualification from the City Commission ballot.
On April 23, City Clerk Jessica Puroll and City Attorney Matt Cross determined that 11 of the 28 signatures on Nemecek’s petitions were not valid, dropping him to 17 signatures, with a minimum of 20 needed to put his name on the ballot. Here are details on the signature problems from the April 24th edition of the Boyne Citizen.
Nemecek’s Facebook press release “formally requested that City Clerk Jessica Puroll extend the deadline for submitting nominating petitions for the upcoming City Commissioner election, citing provisions in Michigan Election Law that he believes support a later filing date.”
In correspondence delivered Wednesday, Nemecek requested that the Clerk's office honor what he describes as “the true legal deadline of July 22, 2025 - not the April 22, 2025 date previously communicated by the Clerk's office.”
"This request is about upholding the democratic principles that our community values," Nemecek said. "I've received 28 signatures from Boyne City voters supporting my candidacy, and these citizens deserve the right to select their representatives through a fair and accessible electoral process."
Nemecek said his challenge is based on “language in the City Charter specifying that candidates for city office are to be nominated by petition rather than through a primary election.” He said his legal counsel’s interpretation of Michigan Election Law “allows candidates until the 15th Tuesday before the election to submit their petitions - a timeline that would extend the deadline to July 22, 2025.”
However, a Facebook comment on Nemecek’s press release by City Assistant Planner/Zoning Administrator Kyle Smith took issue with the interpretation by his legal counsel that the deadline should be extended to July 22. “That is only the deadline on even years - 25 is not an even number the last I checked. State Law is pretty clear on that one.”
Nemecek has requested a response from Clerk Puroll by May 14. There is a City Commission meeting scheduled for 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 13.
City election procedures call for the April petition deadline because if there are more than twice as many candidates filing petitions as there are commission vacancies, then a primary election would be held in August to narrow the field. For example, if seven or more candidates file petitions for three commission seats in April, a primary would be held to narrow the ballot to six candidates for the November ballot.
Nemecek did not respond to a text and phone call from the Boyne Citizen asking if he planned to pursue this matter in court if his challenge is rejected by the City Clerk.
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For sale sign notes "water view" for the property on Lake Street.
Lofts on Lake apartment "prime property" listed for sale at $2 million
By Jim Baumann, jim@boynecitizen.com
The appearance of a for sale sign on the site of a proposed building known as Lofts on Lake marked the apparent end of an effort by Michigan Community Capital to build apartments and commercial space on the corner of Lake and State Streets in Boyne City.
The property is now listed for sale for $2 million by Gaslight Properties of Petoskey. Sam DeCamp, the listing agent, said he has already had interested parties contact him about the property. Here are the listing details.
“It’s a prime piece of property,” DeCamp said. “It’s across the street from the (Veterans) park and the city marina, and it’s a block away from downtown. It should be developed into something that benefits the community.”
Michigan Community Capital is a nonprofit organization that has built similar projects in Cadillac, Grayling, Mt. Pleasant and other communities. MCC had problems securing financing for the proposed Boyne City project as labor and material costs rose in recent years. The project was approved by the Planning Commission but faced some opposition from the public and members of the City Commission over its four-story size and lack of parking.
The fact that the property was listed for sale was discussed briefly during the Boyne City Planning Commission meeting Tuesday. Planning Commissioner Monica Ross commented that she was disappointed that the project was no longer a possibility.
“They have a good reputation for finishing their projects and doing them well,” Ross said of Michigan Community Capital. “So I feel that’s a big loss for our city.”
Mayor Tim Nemecek said, “Me too. I wish they were able to secure that funding.”
Nemecek and City Commissioner Sandy Pritchard pointed out that MCC had not been in contact with city officials since the Commission turned down their proposal for a project on a city parking lot adjacent to the Boyne District Library in 2024.
The Boyne Citizen contacted Marilyn Chrumka, MCC vice president of development, via email on Tuesday, but she said, “We do not have a comment at this time.”
Contacted by email before the meeting, Planning Commission Chairman Nichole Moblo said, “Any future development will need to follow our existing zoning ordinances. If a proposal comes forward that includes affordable housing and meets zoning requirements, it could be a positive outcome for the community, given our need for affordable housing.”
Asked for a comment, Zach Sompels, Housing Ready Program Coordinator for Charlevoix County, said, “This is a huge bummer for not just Boyne City but the whole area. It will certainly be difficult to be presented with a similar project for desperately needed, below market rate, housing but all we can do is look forward and plan for the next one. Boyne has always been and will continue to be resilient despite the challenges ahead - this isn’t a loss, it’s an opportunity to test our resolve and be more prepared for the next project. I understand MCC’s position and wish them the best as we all continue to try to find unique ways to approach the housing crisis here in northwest Michigan.”
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No longer just a dream, Waterfront Field will host BCHS softball game & ceremony Friday
By Jim Baumann, jim@boynecitizen.com
The Waterfront Field of Dreams (WFD), truly a dream that has finally become reality, is open for business five years after it was first conceived in 2020.
The field, which one organizer said may be “the best Little League field in Michigan,” hosted its first official Little League games as part of opening day festivities last Saturday. Pictures from opening day.
The field will be hosting its first girls softball game as part of the Boyne City High School Rambler Softball Invitational Tournament at 6 p.m. Friday, May 9. A first pitch ceremony will be held at 5:45 p.m., honoring some former Boyne area softball players who are now in their 70s and 80s. The Rambler girls will be playing Plymouth Christian in the first game of the weekend tournament.
The softball game illustrates the versatility of the field, which has a removable pitcher's mound, and can accommodate different levels of Little League, men’s and women’s fast-pitch leagues, and possibly even a “Challenger League” for players of all ages with physical and intellectual challenges. The field would also be able to accommodate concerts and other outdoor gatherings.
Friday’s ceremony is not exactly a grand opening - that is planned for this fall - but the WFD is inviting all of their many donors and sponsors to attend the first pitch ceremony. Board Secretary Dan Scmittdiel pointed out that the group has raised nearly $600,000 in cash and $450,000 in in-kind donations to make the Field of Dreams a reality.
And even though the field looks great and is ready for real games, they’re not done yet. Finishing touches are being added to the dugouts this week. The next major addition will be the Bill Christensen Memorial Scoreboard, which has a price tag of $31,000, with $17,000 still to be raised.
Major improvements still planned include a total of $425,000 for phase 4:
- Construction of stadium seating - $100,000
- Construction of announcing/concessions, bathroom, storage building - $250,000
- Sidewalks, retaining walls, utilities - $75,000
The fifth and final phase is projected to cost $150,000 for Q-LED lighting, which includes stanchions, electrical controls and foundations.
This iconic field has been used for Little League games for decades, and as their website points out, it is “a symbol of pride in our small town. It’s one of the historical gems of Boyne City. Not only is this field a historical landmark, but it’s also a childhood memory for all families who grew up playing ball here. Our grandfathers and great-grandfathers built this field for our children with their bare hands. After many years of ball games on this beautiful field, we need to make some major upgrades to preserve this landmark everyone loves and remembers for future generations.”
How to donate - The Waterfront Field of Dreams is a 501c3 nonprofit organization. Click here to make a donation, ranging from buying a brick for $100 to higher levels of sponsorship. Click here to see the Donor Wall of Fame, which lists donors who have given amounts ranging from $5,000 to more than $50,000.
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ABOVE, drawing shows the ultimate plan for the Waterfront Field of Dreams, complete with lights, bleachers, announcing/concessions building, bathrooms, and a covered picnic area.
BELOW is one of the new dugouts, which will have finishing siding installed soon.
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The school district posted this thank-you graphic on Facebook after the election results were announced.
School bond passes with 61% of vote
The Boyne City Public Schools millage bond election Tuesday passed, 1082-685, with 61% voting for the bond that will provide facilities upgrades and renovations.
Superintendent Patrick Little said, "Boyne City Public Schools would like to thank voters on behalf of the Board of Education and the students and families we proudly serve. We are especially grateful to the parents, staff, students, and community members who helped share information and engage in conversations about the needs of our schools."
"Approval of the May 6 bond proposal will allow the school district to make essential improvements to school facilities and learning environments that support student success for years to come;” Little said. "This vote is another great example of 'Ramblers- Supporting Ramblers - that is what we do in Boyne City!'”
Projects included in the bond are:
- Vocational/Career and Technical Education additions at Boyne City High School.
- Expanded and enhanced spaces at Boyne City Elementary.
- District-wide technology and safety upgrades.
- New buses to ensure safe and reliable transportation.
- Interior and exterior site improvements.
For a complete list of projects click here.
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"The dam is safe," says Jim Tiffany, a licensed professional engineer with 35-plus years of experience.
Boyne River Dam safety is focus of FERC licensing; Boyne Resorts GM says "We want to be good stewards"
By Jamie Baumann, jamie@boynecitizen.com
This article on dam safety is the third in a series of three about the Boyne River Hydroelectric Project located east of Dam Road. You can click to read our previous articles about the effect on fish and plant life and public access.
The safety of the Boyne River Hydroelectric Project has been a top priority of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), Boyne Resorts and Friends of the Boyne River (FoBR). As a part of the relicensing process, FERC required dam safety studies that Boyne Resorts commissioned. Based on the results of these studies, Boyne Resorts has put more than a million dollars into repairs and renovations to ensure dam safety.
"The dam is safe," said Jim Tiffany, who is the owner of J.E. Tiffany and Sons from Manton, Mich., the firm that was hired to do the work on the Boyne Resorts dam. Tiffany is a licensed professional engineer with 35-plus years of experience.
Studies of the dam were completed by professional geotechnical, structural and water resources engineers and environmental scientists. "The studies included subsurface investigations and computer modeling of the embankment slopes and downstream riverbanks. These studies were reviewed and accepted by engineers at the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission," Tiffany said. "Some routine maintenance issues pertaining to aesthetics of the powerhouse and automation are still in process, but the pressing dam safety projects have been completed."
Boyne Resorts completed a project to address riverbank degradation downstream of the powerhouse and spillway in late 2022.
FoBR had alerted Boyne Resorts of concerns about the north bank of the river downstream of the dam in July 2020. Boyne Resorts took these concerns seriously and hired a geotechnical engineer from Prein and Newhof who reported their findings on July 31, 2020. Boyne Resorts submitted a remediation plan to FERC in September 2020. The plan included a design for and reconstruction of the eroded slopes, related to seepage and embankment degradation to the north and west of the “powerhouse discharge wingwall” portion of the dam.
Then J.E. Tiffany and Sons was hired to do an engineering analysis and design to address degradation of both left and right streambank slopes downstream of the powerhouse and spillway. Tiffany hired the geotechnical engineering firm of Golder Associates Inc. in July of 2021 to develop the project’s basis of design, including complete computer modeling of the proposed slope remediation designs. From February through July of 2022, plans were submitted to FERC, revised and finally accepted. "The problem at hand was mitigated with a construction project that implemented a comprehensive solution," Tiffany said.
In addition to the streambank project, penstock leaks were discovered by Boyne Resorts in April 2022 and repaired by early May 2022. Penstocks are large pipes that bring water from the “headrace channel” that runs from the reservoir into the powerhouse of the dam.
Downstream of the dam there is naturally occurring seepage on both banks, which is separate from the penstocks leak discovered in 2022, Tiffany explained.
"Prior to our project, that seepage was evident in many places on both sides of the river, even in locations far from the penstocks and even seven months after the penstocks were repaired, when our riverbank restoration project was under construction," Tiffany said. "Our engineered design and executed construction for the stream bank mitigation project incorporated a natural aggregate filter to overlay the underlying soil strata. That filter consisted of increasing particle size from bottom layer to top layer that included sand, fine stone, small stone and riprap. That design allows the groundwater to be released through the slopes of the riverbank while restraining and protecting the underlying soil."
"There is still seepage evident on the banks downstream from the bank remediation project, but those banks are too far away to affect the dam stability," Tiffany explained.
Sections of longitudinal cracks in the concrete headrace area were removed and replaced with new concrete and a new design in 2024. Tiffany said the cracks had been caused by frost heave action over decades, not by the penstock leaks.
FoBR has expressed concerns that the upland riverbank is moving westward by earth flow caused by a penstock leak. Tiffany said that the area referred to doesn't have any of the earmarks of earth flow. He added that two different geotechnical engineering firms reviewed the area and made no mention of earth flow.
Tiffany said, "This make-believe earthflow has been harnessed into the implication that there is an imminent failure risk. That is not true. These claims are not supported by the findings of licensed engineers or the oversight and reviews conducted by FERC."
"As a licensed professional engineer with over 35 years of experience in water resources, dam safety, and hydroelectric infrastructure, I take these matters - and the responsibilities they carry - very seriously," Tiffany said.
Andy Smitts, a geotechnical engineer who was present in a safety tour of the dam added that "licensed professional engineers are bound by codes of ethics to prioritize public safety as a paramount responsibility."
The Boyne River Dam near Dam Road is classified as a low-risk dam by FERC. It is a run-of-river dam, meaning that under normal operating conditions, the water that comes into the dam flows out of the dam. The water level in the reservoir must be kept within a 10-inch range. "If the dam were removed, in Boyne City people would notice very little difference," Tiffany said.
Some readings of unacceptably high turbidity downstream of the dam during 2023 and 2024 caused local concerns about the dam. Tiffany explained, "The reservoir was drawn down in May and June of 2023 to enable Boyne Resorts to complete dam safety and maintenance projects. During the 14-month period that the water was drawn down, short-term high turbidity levels were experienced downstream (1) at the completion of the initial drawdown, and (2) after large rain events. The reservoir actually reduces downstream turbidity under normal operating conditions."
Currently, the monitoring and adjustments to the dam's water flow are all manual. Once the operating license has been approved, according to Boyne Mountain President and General Manager Jason Perl, Boyne Resorts has plans to spend the resources necessary to add automation to the monitoring of the water level and adjusting spillway settings, which should add another layer of reliability in the daily operation of the dam.
"We know that operating the dam is a big responsibility and we want to be good stewards for the dam and the river's resources," Perl said.
| | Boyne Mountain President and General Manager Jason Perl: "We want to be good stewards for the dam and the river's resources." | | |
Students to release salmon
Today, Thursday, Boyne City Middle School sixth and eighth grade students will be visiting Old City Park to release salmon that they raised in their classroom from eggs. This is the project's third year. At the park, throughout the day, students will attend seminars on the Department of Natural Resources, macroinvertebrates, native plants, invasive species, and they will hear from a conservation officer. Representatives of Friends of the Boyne River, the DNR, and Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council will lead the seminars. Pictured with their classroom aquarium are, from left, eighth graders Mac Royce, Zach Ivie, Aubrey Sutherland and Daphne Startzel.
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Village of Boyne Falls is getting a traffic signal and a marijuana store
The Michigan Department of Transportation has told the Village of Boyne Falls that it will install a stoplight at the intersection of Highway M75 and US 131 by the fall of 2026.
Village Council President Marilyn Cousineau confirmed what her board feels is great news. She said the Village Board has been working with MDOT and EGLE on a feasibility study to determine future management of the Boyne Falls Dam on the South Branch Boyne River.
That communication made it easy to let MDOT know about the village’s support for a stoplight at the busy intersection. “MDOT called to tell me that it has been approved,” Cousineau said. The state agency told her that ground prep work on the stoplight would begin in the spring of 2026, and it would be installed that fall.
In other village news, Cousineau said the board has approved an ordinance that would allow for a cannabis/marijuana store to locate there. The proposed ordinance has been forwarded to their attorney to finalize the wording. If a marijuana store opens in the village, it would be the only such outlet in Charlevoix County.
Village of Boyne Falls voters defeated three incumbents and elected three new Village Council members in a close November election that put more supporters of the marijuana store in office. The previous council had voted to prohibit marijuana stores in 2019 and 2023.
The new Village Council hopes that tax revenues from the store would add an estimated $50,000 to $60,000 annually to the village coffers. Major issues on the council’s radar have been management of the dam, street paving, sidewalks and general budget constraints that come from being a small village with 125 homes and 350 residents. The village receives only about $68,000 a year in property tax revenue.
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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.
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Online Pre-Registration (Recommended)
- Competitive Hunt Rules & Information
- 8 am - Noon: Farmers Market
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9 -11am: 65th Annual National Competitive Morel Mushroom Hunt sponsored by Boyne City Kiwanis, buses leave from Boyne City High School.
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Online Pre-Registration (Recommended)
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10am - 6pm: Arts & Crafts Show + Food Trucks, Veterans Memorial Park
- Craft Show Vendor Application
- Food Truck Vendor Application
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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:
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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
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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.
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BC Planning Commission makes progress toward finishing Master Plan
By Jim Baumann, jim@boynecitizen.com
The Boyne City Planning Commission met Tuesday and made some progress in its attempt to complete its unfinished city Master Plan.
The best news was that the threat of possibly having to repay $60,000 in state grant money is no longer an issue.
Kyle Smith, the city’s assistant planning and zoning administrator, sent the Planning Commission a memo stating that he had met with Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) staff about “timeline extensions and implications going forward.”
The Master Plan fell apart when Beckett & Raeder, the firm hired by the city to complete the plan in cooperation with the Planning Commission, withdrew from the project after receiving criticism on the almost finished product by members of the City Commission and the Main Street/Downtown Development Authority Board.
The original deadline for adopting and publishing the Master Plan was May 30, but Smith said he was told that since the contract was terminated, “the deadline essentially no longer exists.”
‘While this sounds like a relief, the possible implications could affect Boyne City’s Redevelopment Ready Community certification and future grant funding. The City of Boyne City has maintained a great working relationship with MEDC and they have been key players in our DDA over the years,” Smith said.
In order to get the Master Plan finished, the city set up a Steering Committee of two members of the City Commission, Planning Commission and DDA board, and that committee met on May 1 to discuss the “shortcomings” of the current Master Plan draft.
The Steering Committee issued a report with a number of recommendations, which the Planning Commission discussed and considered on Tuesday. Those recommendations are included in the Planning Commission Agenda Packet.
The Planning Commissioners made some adjustments and reached agreement on recommendations for how to amend the Master Plan, and forwarded them to Smith and Executive Assistant Jen Eads, who will compile them for consideration at the Commission's next meeting at 5:30 pm. Tuesday, May 19.
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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.
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Friends of Boyne River hosts speakers at library
Friends of the Boyne River is hosting two speakers at 7 p.m. Wednesday, May 14. The program is co-hosted by the Boyne District Library and is open to the public.
> ORVs in the Jordan Valley - Melissa Zelenak, executive director, Antrim Conservation District, will provide an update on the possible permitting of off-road vehicles in the Jordan River Valley.
> Invasive Plant Species - Katie Gray of Charlevoix Antrim Kalkaska Emmet (CAKE) Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area (CISMA) will talk about identifying invasive plant species and what to do about them.
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BOYNE AREA SENIOR CENTER is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays and serves daily lunches from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. For seniors ages 60+, the donation is $3, for ages 59 and under, $8, and for children 12 and under, $6. Here is the May lunch menu, and here is the May activity calendar.
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.
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.
SAFETALK SUICIDE AWARENESS training hosted by Kiersten’s Ride will be held Saturday, May 10, at the 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.
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-Elect 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 now through May 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 the 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 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 – 2 seats open
- Planning Commission
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The Boyne City Coronet Band, 1886. Photograph courtesy of the Patrick McCleary Collection.
THROUGH THE HISTORIAN'S LENS
Concerts in the park, a long-standing tradition
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By Patrick McCleary, Throughthehistorianslens@gmail.com
The Charlevoix County History Preservation Society
According to last week’s edition of the Boyne Citizen, “Evenings at the Gazebo concerts are back.” This highly anticipated event, sponsored by The Boyne Area Chamber, is a free summer concert series held on Wednesday evenings. For several years the concert venue was moved from the Gazebo to the Veterans Park Pavilion but will return to the Gazebo in City Park starting June 25.
City bands and free community concerts have been a Boyne City tradition for generations. The first city band, known as the “Boyne City Coronet Band,” was organized in 1885. By the summer of 1886, they were performing for the public. I am often asked about the size and scope of my personal collection and how I acquired certain pieces. The image to follow is an example of being at the right place at the right time… and knowing enough about early history to identify unidentified imagery. This particular piece, a “salt print” is a very early photo technique that does not always survive if handled incorrectly. It was discovered in and was purchased from Mark Lindsay’s Boyne City antique store (previously located on South Lake Street). The identification on the band’s drum and a single notation of “1886” allowed me to bring the image back to the surface and document its historical importance.
Excerpt from: “The Boyne Citizen,” October 29, 1885
A meeting was held to start a band in Boyne City.
February 18, 1886
A meeting was held to organize a Boyne City band.
June 24, 1886
The band instruments have arrived for the new Boyne Band.
Except for one, the names of the band members are yet unknown to me. However, if you notice the man on the far right in the photo above, holding a tuba, you will see a very young Matthew Cunningham. Cunningham was a very popular citizen in the 1880s and known for his tuba playing and musical endeavors within the community. He owned and operated his own lumber business for a time and later went into business with William H. White. The two were great friends, sharing office space in the old Bank Block building and even building his home on Pearl Street - becoming W.H. White’s next-door neighbor. Many among the previous generations received brass instrument musical instruction from Cunningham, and later piano lessons from his daughter, Miss Jane Cunningham.
At the onset, the band played next to the Post Office, which was then located on the corner of Water and South Lake Streets- near where the Chamber of Commerce log cabin stands today. You could either bring your own chair, or simply stand on the street and listen to the music. By 1889, plans were set into place to erect a “grandstand,” as it was called in those days. This was done on the same corner. First with no roof, then later with a roof to give the band members some protection in inclement weather. Of course those attending simply stood with umbrellas. The structure was apparently stable until 1902, when it began to fall into decay. The Boyne Citizen reported on the failing of the old structure and proposed that something new be built. Although mentions were limited, enough was said to show the progression of the project.
Excerpt from: The Boyne Citizen, September 5, 1902
Plans are being made to erect a bandstand in Boyne City. The site will be at the foot of Water Street.
September 12, 1902
The city voted $25.00 toward the band stand project.
April 24, 1903
Boyne City Coronet Band will hold a concert in the new Band Stand.
So, when did this public venue move to City Park? Not until the summer of 1911, under the direction of then Mayor William Wallace Bailey. It is unknown (to me at least) whether this change in location was meant to be long-term or not. However, surmising that it must have been terribly hot for all parties to gather in the downtown street in mid-summer, the shade of City Park seems a logical alternative.
Excerpt from: The Boyne Citizen, May 5, 1911
BANDSTAND NEEDS REPAIRS
Seats are now arranged in the park for the public.
First Concert to Be Given Next Saturday Night If Weather Permits.
The seats have now been taken down out of the bandstand and nicely arranged in the city park, but the bandstand itself is in need of repairs before it can be used for concert purposes by the band. There are now only three lights in commission in the stand, and the steps leading into it are so badly broken that they are dangerous to use. These repairs, Mayor Bailey tells us, will doubtless be made in time for a concert in the bandstand next Friday night, and by that time the chilliness may be out of the air so that people may sit in the park without the danger of taking cold.
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The Original Boyne City Bandstand. The event is Ernestine White’s birthday party. Ernestine was the daughter of Robert V. and Esther (Grenier) White. Photo courtesy of the White Family Collection.
The location was such a success that the original, octagonal gazebo was erected in the same location that the present-day gazebo now sits. That original structure could have told quite a tale, as it was present for many years to come and was not only a focal point of the community, but a hub of Boyne City activity. It wasn’t long before benches were placed in semi-circles around that structure to provide for community seating. In addition to musical events, public and political debates and rallies were held under the shade of the trees, speakers placing themselves on the elevated platform to address the public.
As time went on, that structure too fell into decay and was eventually razed. It wasn’t until many years later that members of the N. Aldwyn Barden family funded and built the present-day gazebo structure. In 2022, restorations were made to this structure, assuring that it will remain a community focal point for many years to come.
| | The original Boyne City Gazebo, taken as the cement sidewalks were being installed. Note the chicken wire surrounding the wet cement and the wooden bench seating in the foreground. Photograph courtesy of the Patrick McCleary collection. | | > 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 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 - Holly Keller
BC LANES/THE VENUE BAR & GRILL. 1199 M-75 S, Boyne City, (231) 582-6353.
> LIVE MUSIC, Bike & Car Night, 6-9 p.m. Tuesdays on our outdoor stage
Tuesday, May 20 - Two Beats
Tuesday, May 27 - Gray Wolves
June 3 - Country Thunder
June 10 - Scarkazm
June 17 - Yankee Station
June 24 - Two Beats
July 1 - Spur the Moment
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.
> Summer season begins outdoors at Veterans Park on Saturday, May 17.
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, May 3 - Nelson Olstrom, 2-6 p.m.
Saturday, May 10 - Michelle Chenard, 2-6 p.m.
Saturday, May 17 - Two Track Mind, 2-6 p.m.
Friday, May 23 - Michelle Chenard, 4-7 p.m.
Saturday, May 24 - Chris Calleja, 2-6 p.m.
Sunday, May 25 - Pete Kehoe, 1:30- 5 p.m.
Friday, May 30 - Chris Calleja, 4-7 p.m.
Saturday, May 31 - Michelle Chenard, 2-6 p.m.
CAFE SANTE. 1 Water St., Boyne City, (231) 582-8800.
> LIVE MUSIC
Mondays through May 19 - The Shifties, 6-9 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 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 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
> June 4 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.
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