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May 28, 2026 | Issue #88 | Past issues

Native plants on sale soon

Summer will be in full bloom in northern Michigan gardens when the Charlevoix Conservation District holds its annual Native Plant Sale. The browse-n-buy event will take place from noon to 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 6. Details in our story below.

Inside this issue:

• Firefighter charged after crash killed BC man on M-75
• New stoplight coming to Boyne Falls in 2027
• BCHS announces valedictorian, salutatorian
• Henning Scholarship Fund offers $2,500 for every graduate
• Taking root: Native Plant Sale returns June 6
• Bay Township announces America250MI events
• Boyne Falls student wins Arts Council scholarship
• Consumers Energy peak electric rates start June 1
• County's only HHW event is near Charlevoix June 5-6
• Boyne City gas prices drop 16 cents to $4.75
• Patrick McCleary history: "Snowball Brigade" fights a fire
• News briefs, Obituaries & Municipal News
• Thanks to the donors who keep the news coming!
• Music and entertainment listings

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Boyne Valley firefighter charged after crash killed Boyne City man on M-75 in December

By Annie Doyle Grove, annie@boynecitizen.com 

A Boyne Falls volunteer firefighter responding to what turned out to be a controlled burn is now facing a felony charge after investigators say he was driving more than 73 mph without an audible siren when he crashed into a Boyne City man’s vehicle, killing him.

Joshua Elzinga, 34, of Boyne City, has been charged in Charlevoix County with reckless driving causing death, a felony punishable by up to 15 years in prison, and moving violation causing death, a misdemeanor, following a Dec. 15, 2025 crash on M-75 in front of Tractor Supply Company in Wilson Township.

The crash killed Michael Smith, 69, of Boyne City.

According to court records and sheriff’s department reports obtained by the Boyne Citizen through the Freedom of Information Act, Elzinga — a volunteer firefighter with the Boyne Valley Fire Department — told deputies he was responding to a fire call with lights and sirens activated and was traveling no more than 50 mph.

But investigators say surveillance video, witness accounts, radio traffic and crash data contradict those claims.

A Michigan State Police accident reconstructionist later determined Elzinga’s black 2016 Dodge Ram was traveling 73.3 mph approximately 2.1 seconds before impact, according to court documents.

At the same time, witnesses consistently reported seeing flashing emergency lights but not hearing a siren.

The crash occurred shortly after 2:30 p.m. Dec. 15 as Smith attempted to pull out of the Tractor Supply driveway onto M-75.

Investigators allege Elzinga’s southeastbound Dodge Ram struck Smith’s Subaru broadside in a “T-bone” collision, crushing the driver’s side of the vehicle and flipping it onto its roof.

Smith had to be removed from the wreckage using the Jaws of Life and was pronounced dead at the scene.

According to a report written by Charlevoix County Sheriff’s Sgt. Justin Holzschu, Elzinga said Smith “pulled out in front of him” and there was “nothing he could do.”

Holzschu reported Elzinga said he had his lights and siren activated and was “not speeding, only doing 50.”

Elzinga later repeated the claim at the hospital, reportedly telling another deputy he had been traveling “no more than 55 mph.”

Witnesses described a different scene.

One witness behind BC Pizza told deputies the truck was traveling at a “high rate of speed” when it collided with the Subaru. Another witness near Louie’s Market said the truck appeared to be “in a big rush, like it was going to an emergency,” but heard no siren.

According to reports, none of the witnesses interviewed reported hearing an audible siren.

Investigators also reviewed dispatch radio traffic collected as part of the case. 

According to the probable cause affidavit, no siren is audible during recordings of Elzinga radioing in the crash, and no siren could be heard during audio from the initial 911 callers prior to emergency vehicles arriving.

Investigators collected surveillance footage from Tractor Supply, BC Pizza and BC Lanes, which they said appeared to show Elzinga’s truck moving “significantly faster” than surrounding traffic.

That evidence led investigators to obtain data from the truck’s event data recorder, or vehicle “black box,” which showed the speed Elzinga's truck was traveling just before impact. Smith’s Subaru was traveling approximately 22 mph as it exited Tractor Supply.

The emergency Elzinga was responding to also proved less urgent than initially believed.

Dispatch logs show firefighters were called around 2:23 p.m. for reports of “a lot of smoke” on Addis Road in Boyne Valley Township.

But by 2:48 p.m., another firefighter arriving at the scene determined the smoke came from a controlled burn on private property.

Investigators also questioned Elzinga’s statement that Fire Chief Darren Eaton instructed him to “run hot,” meaning respond under emergency driving conditions.

According to reports, Elzinga said Eaton gave that instruction. Documents obtained by the Boyne Citizen show Eaton later denied doing so.

Another firefighter responding to the same call told investigators he chose not to use emergency lights or sirens because the information coming through dispatch did not justify it.

Under Michigan law, emergency vehicles may exceed speed limits when responding to emergencies, but only while using emergency warning devices and without reckless disregard for public safety.

The busy intersection of U.S. 131 and M-75 in Boyne Falls will be getting a stoplight next year.

New stoplight coming to Boyne Falls in 2027

By Annie Doyle Grove, annie@boynecitizen.com

Boyne Falls may have just 376 year-round residents, but the village’s busiest intersection handles enough traffic to warrant something it has never had before — a stoplight.

The Michigan Department of Transportation plans to install a full traffic signal at the intersection of U.S. 131 and M-75 in Boyne Falls, with construction anticipated in 2027 after traffic volumes reached the threshold needed for the upgrade. (It has previously been reported that the stoplight would be installed in 2026.)

The project, which is currently in the design phase, is expected to go out for contractor bids in October, according to MDOT spokesperson James Lake.

While an exact construction timeline has not been finalized, the work is expected to take roughly two months from start to finish, though construction will not occur every day. Portions of the project — including concrete work tied to pedestrian crossings — will require curing time.

The estimated cost of the project is approximately $500,000.

“It’s based on traffic volumes,” Lake said in an interview with the Boyne Citizen. “Those have continued to increase, and the intersection now meets what we call warrants or conditions to install a full traffic signal.”

The intersection serves as the only major crossroads in Boyne Falls, connecting north-south traffic on U.S. 131 with east-west travel along M-75 toward Boyne City.

Despite the village’s small size, traffic through the intersection swells throughout the year due in large part to its proximity to Boyne Mountain Resort, located just south of downtown Boyne Falls.

The four-season resort draws visitors year-round for skiing, golf, events and outdoor recreation. 

In addition to the new signal, MDOT plans to install sidewalk ramps and pedestrian crossings on the west, south and east sides of the intersection.

“Anytime we’re upgrading a signal like this, we want to include pedestrian accommodation as well,” said Lake.

The project will also include dedicated left-turn phases for northbound and southbound U.S. 131 traffic. That means drivers turning left will have a separate green-arrow phase rather than needing to wait for a gap in oncoming traffic.

“Turning traffic will have its own portion of the signal timing,” Lake explained.

For longtime residents and regular travelers through Boyne Falls, the addition will mark a noticeable change to an intersection that has long relied on driver judgment to move vehicles through the center of town.

You may donate online or mail a check to

Boyne Citizen, P.O. Box 83, Boyne City MI 49712

Thank you!

Valedictorian Malorie Carter and Salutatorian Benjamin Ivie.

Boyne City High School announces valedictorian, salutatorian and honor students

Boyne City High School has announced the Senior Honor Awards for the Class of 2026.

Valedictorian Malorie Carter and Salutatorian Benjamin Ivie will address their classmates, family, and friends at graduation on Sunday, May 31. Carter had a final cumulative grade point average of 4.084, and Ivie had a GPA of 4.072.

Malorie Carter is the daughter of Stephanie and Zane Carter. Group involvement at school included Student Council (Secretary), National Honor Society, Senior Class Representative, Soccer, Freshmen Mentor, DECA, Golf, Basketball, Big Brothers Big Sisters.

She plans to attend the University of Michigan to study biology, health, and sociology in order to pursue a career as a physician assistant. Malorie’s words of wisdom: “Success shouldn’t be measured solely by our personal achievements, but by our efforts and contributions toward improving the world around us.”

Benjamin Ivie is the son of Helene and Brandon Ivie. His school involvement included Band, Jazz Band, Robotics, Quiz Bowl, Drama, Tennis, and National Honor Society. 

He plans to study engineering at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in the fall. Benjamin’s words of wisdom: “Believe nothing, no matter where you read it or who has said it, not even if I have said it, unless it agrees with your own reason and your own common sense. - Buddha.”

The school also recognized nine other graduating honor students with a GPA above 4.0:

• Aleli Barrera-Bardeguez, 4.056
• Gabriella Holbrook, 4.056
• Wyatt Woodall, 4.043
• Abigail Sheffield, 4.027
• Cambrynne Giem, 4.022
• Chelsey Hertel, 4.013
• Carter Bernthal, 4.0
• Emma Patten, 4.0
• Jack VanZee, 4.0

Susan Henning wants her scholarship fund to support local students no matter what direction they are headed.

Henning Scholarship Fund offers $2,500 for every graduating senior - in perpetuity

By Kalynn Huffman Brower, kalynn.brower@gmail.com 

Boyne Falls Public School held the inaugural David and Susan Henning Scholarship Fund awards ceremony on April 29, honoring the family that will be giving $2,500 scholarships to every graduating senior - in perpetuity.

This scholarship was started by Susan Henning in honor of her late husband, David, who grew up in Boyne Falls and graduated from Boyne Falls High School in 1962.

“The education David received in Boyne Falls enabled him to be successful with finances and investing their money over the years,” School Superintendent Cynthia Pineda said. “This financial success, due to David’s acumen, has made it possible for Susan to create this scholarship for the graduating seniors of Boyne Falls High School.”

During the awards ceremony, six seniors were awarded $2,500 each for post-secondary education and preparation.

How did this happen for such a small school district? The Boyne Citizen met with Susan Henning at Betty’s Restaurant to find out. 

“David was very good at finances,” Susan said. As the young couple both earned steady income, they started to save intentionally. “His plan was that we would live on one paycheck and invest the other one.”

Susan credits their financial success to David’s expertise, and the excellent education he got from the Boyne Falls school system. The wealth they built together has made it possible for Susan to create this ongoing scholarship for the graduating seniors.

“David hired into Buick in Flint in 1965, working the hot metal crane. Very dangerous. I worked at the A&W. I was a car hop, and that’s where we met.” Susan smiles at the memory. “David came in on Thursday the 12th of May, 1966. A date to remember. And he started dropping everything. A cup. His tray,” Susan laughed.

“And I said, ‘What are you going to do on Friday the 13th? You’ve already dropped everything today.’” Of course she was teasing him, and apparently he understood her flirtations. They dated for two years, married and stayed married until David passed away on Aug. 17, 2024, the day before his 81st birthday.

Susan started working at Buick in 1973, working as an inspector in the Spring Department. She was laid off during the OPEC oil embargo and rehired in 1975 in the Final Assembly Department. “By the time I retired, I was driving the new cars from the plant to the lot where they were deemed ready for shipment. Not a bad job.” A lot of pride went into every final quality check.

Near the end of his Buick career, David moved to the Instrument Repair Department and completed four years of training to earn the highest level of certification. The instrument gauges he repaired were some of the most delicate and critical parts of that 1990s generation of vehicles.

One of his proudest possessions was a new Buick LeSabre, which he earned as part of his retirement package, and the Hennings drove that car for 28 years.

The Hennings moved to Boyne Falls in 1999, and Susan became a regular at Betty’s Restaurant. “I go every day.” In fact, Betty’s is where the scholarship fund idea was conceived. Her favorite waitress, Mandy Gray, was there. 

“Mandy has twin daughters and last spring, when her kids were planning their education after high school, they talked about how expensive it all was. Well, I could see I could help the girls.” Thanks to Susan’s generosity in 2025, Alyssa and Kayleigh Gray got a financial jumpstart and now have successfully completed their first year of college.

Alyssa Gray is studying elementary special education and Kayleigh Gray is studying sociology.

It was easy to see that other Boyne Falls young people could use a boost, too. So, Susan started a conversation with her financial advisors and school leaders to set up the ongoing scholarship fund.

Attending the April 29 presentation ceremony were Susan Henning; Joyce Gibes, her lifetime friend from Boyne Falls; and Keith and Lisa Fitzpatrick, David’s sister, currently living and working in Harbor Springs. 

Superintendent Cindy Pineda pointed out to the high school students that “this scholarship is a testament to hard work, smart financial planning, and giving back to the local community.”

The scholarship application is very streamlined - “different from any other scholarship - all you have to do is sign up for any kind of advanced education, trade school or community college,” Susan said. 

She wants the Henning Scholarship Fund to support local students no matter what direction they are headed. “All kids deserve the opportunity to advance their education.”

The first beneficiaries of this generous scholarship will graduate during the Boyne Falls School Commencement Ceremony at 2 p.m. this Sunday, May 31.

ABOVE: Susan Henning, center, poses with the six graduating seniors receiving scholarships this year. From left are Trinity Smeltzer, Evander Nugent, Gabriel Bouton, Susan Henning, Sienna Conklin, Chace Rose, and Selah Bennett.

BELOW: Superintendent Cynthia Pineda welcomes Susan Henning's family and friends who attended the scholarship fund awards ceremony.

The Charlevoix Conservation District's Native Plant Educational Garden allows residents to see the native plants in a local setting before purchasing them.

Taking root: Native Plant Sale returns June 6

By Mia Kerner, miamilanek@gmail.com

Summer will be in full bloom in northern Michigan gardens as the Charlevoix Conservation District prepares for its annual Native Plant Sale. The browse-n-buy event will take place from noon to 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 6 in the District Barn, featuring 71 native plant species suited to Michigan soil and designed to support local wildlife.

The district will be hosting the sale in collaboration with the Lake Charlevoix Association and the Walloon Lake Association & Conservancy, with the native plants provided by the Birdsfoot Native Nursery. Proceeds will go toward the district’s operating costs and community events.

Alison Adams, executive director of the district, said the plant sale started because local interest in native plants began to grow as property sizes shrank. Residents were looking for ways to support pollinators and wildlife on smaller lots.

Adams said she expects butterfly weed, a vibrant favorite of monarch butterflies, and cardinal flowers, which bring in hungry hummingbirds, to be the most popular plants this year.

To accompany the plant sale, the district launched an educational garden in 2019 through community donations, partnerships and grant funding. The garden allows residents to see the native plants in action before purchasing them.

Adams said even the small educational garden has attracted bees, butterflies, birds and other wildlife, demonstrating how a single backyard planted with native species can make a meaningful ecological impact.

Beyond supporting pollinators, she said that native plants help prevent erosion, absorb excess water, and grow naturally in Michigan’s sandy soil conditions.

Originally from Rochester, Adams said that growing up during a period of rapid suburban development helped shape her passion for conservation. Watching farmland transform into densely populated suburbs, while also spending significant time in northern Michigan with family, gave her a deep appreciation for preserving natural spaces.

After graduating from Central Michigan University and briefly moving out west for an internship, she ultimately returned to Northern Michigan, drawn back by its natural beauty.

“Just being outdoors increases your desire to protect it,” she said. “And making sure northern Michigan always has that northern Michigan quality that we all love... the only way to see that through is to make sure that we're taking care of it and protecting it for future generations.”

Before joining the conservation district, Adams spent 12 years working for the Little Traverse Conservancy as an education coordinator.

Since securing her current role, she has focused heavily on community outreach and environmental education. Adams helped expand youth nature programming, create internship opportunities and transform a former storage area into a community meeting space that hosts conservation workshops and educational events.  

The district is currently working on fundraising for a larger community barn, which serves as a hub for many of its conservation efforts.

“A lot of people think that conservation districts are very specific to certain types of landowners or farmers,” Adams said. “And for a long time, that was the case. But we have a lot of different things that we offer, and we try to be very involved in the community and try to be something for everyone.”

Lucy Hartlove has been a volunteer with the district for three years. She was attracted to the opportunity by the “hands on” approach to conservation that the district demonstrated.

Hartlove said that the board is filled with “good people doing good work,” especially when it comes to events like the Native Plant Sale.

“I think it just brings more awareness to the public that we do need these native plants and trees,” she said. “It warms my heart that so many people know about it and come to our sales.”

The "browse-n-buy" Native Plant Sale has plants arranged by where they will be planted - in sun, shade, or wetlands.

Boyne City American Legion Ernest Peterson Post 228 Honor Guard conducts a 21-gun salute at Dyer Cemetery.

Bay Township announces America250MI events at Memorial Day Ceremony

More than 70 people attended the Memorial Day Flag Ceremony, a long-standing tradition in Bay Township, at Dyer Cemetery. Two new America250MI events were also announced at this event.

The Cemetery Committee presented neighbors Gwen and Ve Erickson with a letter of appreciation for their donation of a large America flag commemorating the nation's 250th birthday celebration. It will fly all year at Dyer Cemetery.

Also announced was the grant awarded to Bay Township Cemetery Committee for funding of the project, “Memorial Monuments for Bay Township’s Historic Cemeteries to Honor the Unknown.” This is one of four Charlevoix County projects that were recently awarded funding through the America250MI History Grant Program, part of the state’s commemoration of the Semiquincentennial of the Declaration of Independence.

Granite commemorative monuments will be erected in Dyer and Oaklawn Cemeteries. These monuments will honor the previously unmarked graves of 108 individuals whose identities are largely unknown, but whose lives contributed to the early development of Bay Township and northern Michigan.

As part of this grant, two upcoming public events were announced: 

July 4 - History Open House “Celebrating Milestones” Exhibit and a “Kids Corner” with “hands on history” at the Bay Township Hall in Horton Bay. It will be open two hours before and two hours after the famous Horton Bay Parade. (The exhibit will be closed during the parade). America250 flags will be given to the first 150 people attending the exhibit.

August 9 - 2 p.m. unveiling ceremonies of the monuments beginning at Dyer Cemetery and then Oaklawn Cemetery, with speeches and pioneer reenactments by Girl Scout Troop 8689. 

The Memorial Day ceremony concluded with the Boyne City American Legion Ernest Peterson Post 228 Honor Guard playing taps and conducting a 21-gun salute.

Arts Council scholarship award

Boyne Falls 11th-grader Andrea Brilley received a $750 scholarship award from the Jordan River Arts Council at their annual scholarship show. The $750 JRAC Award is a prominent scholarship presented annually to a talented high school junior or senior. The Jordan River Arts Council’s mission is to offer enriching creative experiences through programs, exhibitions, and collaborative artistic endeavors that nurture individual potential and strengthen community. 

Consumers Energy summer peak electric rates start June 1 from 2-7 p.m. on weekdays

Consumers Energy's summer peak electricity rates go into effect on June 1 and remain in place through the end of September.

Peak Hours: The higher rates apply on weekdays from 2 to 7 p.m.

Off-Peak Rates: Electricity used outside these hours, including all day on weekends, is charged at a lower rate.

Starting June 1, the on-peak rate is $0.245 per kWh, 24.4% higher that the the off-peak rate of $0.197 per kWh. 

This pricing structure is designed to encourage customers to shift energy usage away from high-demand periods to help stabilize the grid and reduce reliance on natural gas. 

If you can pre‑cool your home before 2 p.m. in summer, you can reduce air conditioning use during the peak window, lowering energy use and costs.

Here is the Summer Rate page on the Consumers Energy website.

> Download a reminder sign to place on your dishwasher, dryer and washing machine. The sign says “Please don’t use washer, dryer, dishwasher or air conditioning 2 to 7 p.m. weekdays. Electricity is 24% higher during those hours June through September.

County's only HHW event this year is near Charlevoix next weekend

Charlevoix County will be holding only one Household Hazardous Waste collection event this year, and it will be held Friday and Saturday, June 5 and 6, south of Charlevoix at the Road Commission garage, 11705 Shaw Road, just west of M-66.

In the past, the county has held an HHW event in June in Charlevoix and also in September in Boyne City, but the change to one event was made by the County Board of Commissioners for budget reasons due to rising costs.

Josh Cline, materials management coordinator for the county, explained the reason for rising costs. “After the 2022 Season for HHW, we were informed by the vendor that takes chemicals, bulbs, and the non-electronic material, that they would no longer come this far north for events,” Cline said. “We were left with a singular alternative for a vendor” that would serve this area.

Cline said the cost for HHW events rose 78% from 2022 to 2023. “In late 2023 a new contract with GFL as the hauler for recycling was signed, and this increased the cost by 57%,” he said.

“We have not increased the millage of recycling since its inception in 2000 because it has never needed it. The one-two punch in both areas, which hit us out of the blue, pushed us past the ability for this rate to cover the cost. We either operate a single event or increase the millage,” which is up for renewal or possibly an increase in 2028.

Those who have not already made an online appointment may make phone reservations beginning through Friday, June 5 between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. Call 231-547-0080. You are asked to only call once and leave a message. Calls will be returned in the order received.

For details about items that will and will not be accepted, see this 2026 HHW Event Brochure.

Boyne City regular gas prices drop 16 cents

Prices for regular unleaded gas dropped 16 cents to $4.75 per gallon in the past week at the Marathon station at 470 N. Lake Street. Diesel dropped from $6.29 to $5.99. Other stations in town are slightly higher - $4.78 at BP, Shell and Louie's Market. Here are recent prices spot checked by the Boyne Citizen since the Iran war started on Feb. 28:

• March 3 - $3.099
• March 6 - $3.409
• March 12 - $3.669
• March 21 - $3.999
• March 26 - $4.199
• March 27 - $3.999
• April 6 - $3.899
• April 7 - $4.199
• April 13 - $4.159
• April 15 - $4.099
• April 22 - $3.799
• April 24 -$3.999
• April 29 - $4.299
• May 6 - $4.799
• May 13 - $4.999
• May 20 - $4.919
• May 27 - $4.759

> Michigan gas prices (AAA)

News Briefs

NEW LOCATION FOR ARTS CENTER The Boyne Arts Center (BAC) is closed this week to complete their move to a new downtown Boyne City home and will reopen in the new location on Monday, June 1. Community members are invited to attend a ribbon-cutting with the Boyne Area Chamber of Commerce at 5 p.m. Friday, June 5, with an open house immediately following. Attendees will have an opportunity to tour the new building and meet several of the artists displaying work in the gallery. The new location is in the building that housed Country Now & Then and Up The Lazy River for many years at 211 Water Street. Starting next week, the arts center will have expanded summer hours of 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday and Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Fridays. For more information and class schedules, visit the arts center's website at www.boynearts.org. 

TRAIL FUNDRAISER - A pasta supper and silent auction in Boyne City on Thursday, June 18 are aimed at raising awareness of, and money for completion of the Boyne City to Charlevoix Trail. The event is sponsored by the Charlevoix County Trail Team and takes place from 5-7:30 p.m. at the Veterans Memorial Park pavilion, 207 N. Lake St. Suggested donation is $12 for adults, $8 for children under age 9, and $35 for a family of four. This fundraiser is part of an overall campaign to finish the last six miles of the trail from Horton Bay to the edge of Charlevoix. Click here to donate.

COFFEE TALK - Boyne City School Superintendent Pat Little will be hosting his monthly Coffee Talk on Wednesday, June 3. He will be at the Lake Charlevoix Coffee Company in downtown Boyne City from 8:30-9:30 a.m. Stop by to ask questions on school-related topics.

PARK AND PACK DAY - Evangeline Township is holding its annual Park and Pack Clean Up trash collection day on Saturday, June 6 from 7:30 a.m. to 12 noon at the Town Hall. This popular annual event provides township residents with a way to dispose of household items. There are a few restrictions: no paint, batteries, anti-freeze, freon, tires or yard waste. Construction material should not exceed 6 feet. Loose items must be put in garbage bags. Township residents have received the Park and Pack postcard in the mail, which is required for admission at the Town Hall, located on the corner of Wildwood Harbor and Clute Roads.

GENEALOGY - The next meeting of the Charlevoix County Genealogical Society will be at 7 p.m. Thursday, June 4 at the Boyne District Library Community Room. The group encourages interested persons to come and learn more about the organization and perhaps become a member. The program for this meeting will be “The Proper Way to Clean a Gravestone,” with presenters Yvonne Pentecost and Christine Brown. They will also be discussing their 50th birthday event. For questions or more information, contact Christine Brown, 231-582-9337 or 231-838-3449.

BOYNE AREA SWIM SCHOOL registration is open. Stop by the MSU Extension office at Boyne City Hall to get signed up from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

BLOOD DRIVES - Several local organizations are sponsoring blood drives in the coming weeks. Versiti Blood Center says, “The need for blood is urgent and constant. One in seven patients entering a hospital requires the availability of blood for various medical reasons.” Here are the upcoming blood drives in Boyne City and Boyne Falls:

• BC Beauty Lounge, 115 S. Lake St. #B - 1:30-6 p.m. Monday, June 8.
• Boyne District Library - 1-5:30 p.m. Monday, June 22.

> To register, click here and enter your zip code for nearby locations.

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 lunch donation is $3, for ages 59 and under, $10; and for children 12 and under, $8. Here is the May lunch menu and the May activity calendar.



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Regional News

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City of Boyne City Municipal News

Mayor Bob Farrell was one of 28 people donating blood on May 22.

SUCCESSFUL BLOOD DRIVE - On Friday, May 22, the Boyne City EMS Department partnered with Versiti to host a community blood drive that exceeded expectations. With a goal of 20 donations, the drive finished with 28 successful donations, including six first-time donors stepping up to give back to the community. We would also like to recognize Benjamin Mathers on reaching his gallon donation milestone — eight successful blood donations that reflect a commitment to helping save lives. Thank you to everyone who donated, volunteered, and supported this effort. Your willingness to give can make a life-saving difference for patients in need throughout our region.

MEETING CHANGE - The City Commission’s second regular meeting in May will be held on Thursday, May 28, at 12 noon, following Memorial Day weekend. This is a change from the normal schedule of meeting on the fourth Tuesday of the month. A Facebook post from the city said, “This adjusted timing helps provide a bit of space around Memorial Day while keeping meetings accessible.” Agenda packet.

RUBBISH PICKUP SET FOR JUNE 6 - The City of Boyne City rubbish collection pickup has been set for Saturday, June 6. This service is available to residential properties within City limits (3 units or fewer).

• Limit: Up to 2 cubic yards per household
• Set items out after 5 p.m. the day before
• Have items out by 7 a.m. on pickup day

Commercial properties are not eligible. View full details, including acceptable and non-acceptable items. 

COMMUNITY GARDEN PLOTS AVAILABLE - Spring is here, and it’s the perfect time to get growing. We currently have a limited number of plots available at the Boyne City Community Garden. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just getting started, we’d love to have you join us. Grow your own fresh vegetables, connect with neighbors, and be part of a wonderful local tradition. Plots are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so don’t wait! To reserve your plot or get more information, contact Heather at 231-582-0338.

AVALANCHE STEPS RENOVATION - Invitation to bid. The City of Boyne City will receive sealed bids at the City Clerk’s Office, 319 North Lake Street, Boyne City, for Avalanche Park Step Repairs at the Boyne City Hall until Friday, June 5, at 2 p.m. Bids will be publicly opened and read at that time in the Boyne City Hall Commission Chambers. Complete bid specifications, proposal forms, project details, and attachments are available on the City’s website. The City Commission reserves the right to reject any or all bids and to accept any bid which, in their opinion, is most advantageous to the City.

JOB OPPORTUNITY - Looking for a summer job that’s outdoors, fast-paced, and right on the water? The Boyne City Marina is hiring Dock Hands to help boaters, make reservations, keep the marina looking great, and be part of a fun team! Spend your summer lakeside. Apply & find the full job description and details here. 

NOW HIRING PARAMEDICS - The City of Boyne City is seeking applications from dedicated individuals interested in joining our EMS team as a Paramedic.

Apply today - email your resume to jpuroll@boynecity.gov. Find the full job description online at www.boynecity.gov/career.

SIGN UP FOR CITY ALERTS - The City of Boyne City has launched an Alerts feature on our website to help you stay up-to-date on projects, notices, and other important things happening around town. It’s designed to be a quick, easy way to get real-time updates, as they become available, directly to your email or phone. Sign up at: https://www.boynecity.gov/enotify/index.php.



Obituaries

E. Jane (Snyder) Laurie

November 25, 1935 ~ May 23, 2026 (age 90)

Sister Carol A. Bearss

June 6, 1935 ~ May 27, 2026 (age 90)

ABOVE: Boyne City photographer Russell C. Leavenworth took this photo early in the morning of Tuesday, February 25, 1908. It shows the completely gutted remains of Boyne City’s First National Bank, The Hub emporium, and the offices located above each. Once situated on the corner of South Park and Water Streets, the this landmark early building (said to be “the finest office building and business block in the city” of the day), was left in complete ruin after the fire.

BELOW is a photo of the bank building before it burned. Photographs courtesy of the Patrick McCleary Collection.

THROUGH THE HISTORIAN'S LENS

Boyne City Fire Department was known as the “Snowball Brigade” after this fire

By Patrick McCleary

When mentions are made of early Boyne’s “big fires,” it is generally the various lumber mill fires that are most often cited and held up as examples. However, one of the worst incidents, and perhaps the fire that caused the most varied financial devastation, was the December 1908 fire that destroyed all but one building on the east side of Water Street. All but one of the businesses located between Park and Lake Streets was lost to the devastating blaze, which occurred on the cold winter evening of February 24, 1908.

In the early 1890s Boyne City had no fire department. There wasn’t even so much as a volunteer fire company. In those days, the entire community responded and fought the blazes in “bucket brigade” fashion. Dr. Delacy, who was the only doctor in Boyne at that time, was elected village president. Through his efforts, the village council purchased a “fire wagon” with some hose. The wagon had a pumping apparatus with an extended bar on each side. It took 6 or 7 men on each side, working the bars in see-saw fashion to pump the water through the hose and onto the fire. It was very hard work, but a long way ahead of the former bucket brigades. Many of the city’s small fires were quickly extinguished with it.

By 1908, there was an active volunteer fire department. While their equipment was still rather primitive, the team of men were at least able to combat a blaze and, in most cases, prevent fire from spreading from building to building. One thing that they had little to no control over however, was the weather. If prevailing winds were not in their favor, there was little that could be done to keep even a small blaze from reaching a devastating climax. Such was the case with the 1908 Water Street fire.

On Monday night, February 21 at about 9 p.m., the alarm was sounded that there was a fire in the heart of the city’s business district. It didn’t take long for word to spread that The Hub clothing and dry goods store was on fire. The fire department was located just across the street from the bank on South Park Street. They arrived immediately and had a stream of water pouring into the store, and it appeared that there would be no major loss beyond this single business. The Hub had only just received an exceptionally large stock of goods, and the rooms were overflowing with stock. As this stock became engulfed in flames, the fire crept into the walls and began to spread into the bank portion of the building and up into the many offices located above. It was soon evident that the entire corner structure would be lost.

The wind that evening was blowing at an exceptionally strong speed, forcing the flames from the bank building in the direction of the lake - directly down Water Street. All along the east side of Water Street, merchants began to obtain blankets, saturate them with water, and cover the lower fronts of their buildings hoping to save the windows and extinguish the sparks that rained down all around them. Many took to the roofs of the buildings to fight the sparks as well. If it hadn’t been that the roofs were well-covered with snow, the entire east side of town might have immediately gone up in smoke. However, the wet and melting snow assisted in maintaining a steady burn rather than a full inferno.

By 11 p.m. it was obvious that there was going to be no saving the buildings, and little more could be done beyond holding the flames in place and allowing them to burn themselves out. Walls began to crumble and fall into rubble as the night went on.

The “Snowball Brigade” is formed

Now, on the opposite corner (the corner of South Lake and Water Streets, where Kilwin’s sits today), was the establishment of Handy’s Drug Store. Mr. Handy, a Civil War veteran, had conducted business in that location for over a decade and was revered throughout the city. As the flames ate away at the Water Street business section and the winds pushed the flames in a direct line toward the Handy establishment, someone on the fire team had an idea.

As a result of the flames, the heat from the burning business section was so intense that Water Street, from Park Street to Lake Street, has become a small river of water. The snow had been two or three feet deep at the onset, and as it melted, it turned into a thick slush. A call was sent out and the men and boys began making large snowballs, throwing the wet snow against the walls and up onto the roof of the Handy building. About that time, the wind miraculously shifted to the north. As a result of both, Handy’s Drug Store was the only Water Street building saved on the east side between South Park Street to South Lake Street.

Some of the state newspapers reporting the story of the fire and the snowball throwing began to call the volunteer fire fighters the “Snowball Brigade.” As time went on, and for many years after the fact, “traveling men” as salesmen were called in those days, were said to have made references to the effectiveness of the city’s “snowball brigade.”

> Patrick McCleary is a certified genealogist who has devoted years to the ongoing research and study of Boyne City and Charlevoix County history. In addition to conducting classes on genealogy and family history, he also speaks on a variety of topics. 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 around 9. The Legion also has a breakfast on the second Saturday of every month from 8-11 a.m.

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

> Open bowling: 3-9 p.m. Tuesdays, 3-10 p.m. Fridays, 12-10 p.m. Saturdays, 12-9 p.m. Sundays.

> Live music:

• Tuesday, June 9 - Summer concert series begins and continues every Tuesday at 6 p.m.

BOYNE ARTS CENTER - 1 Water Street, Suite 203, Boyne City, (231) 622-2073.

> Upcoming classes and exhibits:

• Plein Art Meet-ups - Tuesdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
• Ribbon Cutting Celebration Public - Friday, June 5, 5 p.m.
• Kids Art Camp - June 15 - August 14. Scholarships available. 
• Reviving Old Paintings - Demo Night with Julie Tibus - June 15
• Beginning Acrylic Painting - June 23, July 7 & 21
• Creating Mood Landscapes in Acrylic - July 9, 23, 30 & Aug. 6
• Beginning Alcohol Ink - July 18
• The Art of Image Transfer - July 20
• Transform a Failed Painting Workshop - July 22
• Demo Night with Carol Ross - July 23
• Book a Private Art Party
• BAC will be closed the week of May 25 to move into our new location at 211 Water Street.

BOYNE CITY FARMERS MARKET - Outdoors at Veterans Park, 207 N. Lake Street, Boyne City, from 8 a.m.-12 noon on Wednesdays and Saturdays. (231) 582-9009.

> Live music 10 a.m. to 12 noon Saturdays

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

• Mondays - Trivia
• Thursdays - Adam and the Cabana Boys, 7-10 p.m.
• Fridays - Jake Raber and Patrick Ryan 7-10 p.m.
• Saturdays - Patrick Ryan solo, 7-10 p.m.

BOYNE DISTRICT LIBRARY - 201 East Main St., Boyne City, 231-582-7861. Newsletter with June events and details.

BOYNE MOUNTAIN RESORT - 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.

LIVE MUSIC:

• Thursdays through May - Nelson Olstrom performs, 7-10 p.m.

BOYNE VALLEY VINEYARDS - 05325 US 131 S, Petoskey, (231) 373-2090.

> LIVE MUSIC:

• Friday, May 29 - Michelle Chenard, 2-6 p.m.
• Saturday, May 30 - Chris Calleja, 2-6 p.m.
• Friday, June 5 - Nelson Olstrom (4-7:30)
• Saturday, June 6 - Two Track Mind (2-6)
• Friday, June 12 - Chase & Allie (4-7:30)
• Saturday, June 13 - Derek Boik (2-6)
• Friday, June 19 - Yankee Station (4-7:30)
• Saturday, June 20 - Chris Calleja (2-6)
• Friday, June 26 - Chris Calleja (4-7:30)
• Saturday, June 27 - Michelle Chenard (2-6)

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

> LIVE MUSIC:

• Friday, May 29: Chris Calleja, 7-10 p.m.
• Saturday, May 30 - Sean Bielby, 7-10 p.m.

CROOKED TREE ARTS CENTER - 461 E. Mitchell Street. Petoskey, (231) 347-4337.

> See website for updated art shows, entertainment, and children's activities.

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

• Friday, May 29 - Crooked Tree Arts Center School of Ballet presents Dance Legends: Little Traverse Bay Celebrates Graham100. Details and tickets.
• See website for movies showing on the big screen.

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

> TRIVIA NIGHT - Wednesdays, 7-9 p.m.

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

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

> LIVE MUSIC and events:

• Monday, June 1 - Lit With Literature: The Will of Many By James Islington, 7-9 p.m.
• Friday, June 5 - Live music with Lavender Lions Duo, 8-11 p.m.
• Friday, June 12 - Live music with Dave Cisco, 8-11 p.m.
• Friday, June 19 - Live music with The Tweed Tones, 8-11 p.m.
• Monday, June 22 - Lit With Literature: Seek the Traitors By Veronica Roth
• Friday, June 26 - Live music with Sean Bielby, 8-11 p.m.

PIED PIPER ROLLER RINK - 04454 M-75 N, Walloon Lake. Admission $8, skate rental $2. Candy, chips, soda/pop, and pizza available for purchase. 

• Fridays - Open Skate (all ages), 5-9 p.m.
• Saturdays - Open Skate (all ages), 5-9 p.m.

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

> June 18 and the third Thursday of the month - Open Mic Nights hosted by Peter Allen Jensen, 6-9 p.m.

WALLOON WATERSHED - 4128 M-75 , Walloon Lake, (231) 535-6048.

Live music:

• Thursday, May 28 - Laura Crowe, 6-9 p.m.
• Sunday, May 31 - Nic Visconti, 1-4 pm. 
• Wednesday, June 3 - Pete Kehoe, 6-9 p.m.
• Thursday, June 4 - Laura Crowe, 6-9 p.m.
• Tuesday, June 9 - Laura Crowe, 6-9 p.m.
• Wednesday, June 10 - Pete Kehoe, 6-9 p.m.
• Sunday, June 14 - Nick Visconti, 1-4 p.m.
• Tuesday, June 16 - Laura Crowe, 6-9 p.m.
• Wednesday, June 17 - Pete Kehoe, 6-9 p.m.
• Tuesday, June 23 - Laura Crowe, 6-9 p.m.
• Wednesday, June 24 - Pete Kehoe, 6-9 p.m.
• Sunday, June 28 - Nick Visconti, 1-4 p.m.
• Tuesday, June 30 - Laura Crowe, 6-9 p.m.

The Boyne Citizen

Jim Baumann, Editor * About Us

P.O. Box 83, Boyne City, MI 49712

Email: jim@boynecitizen.com

Phone: 231-675-8793

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