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June 18, 2026 | Issue #91 | Past issues

Bike shop passes the torch

Two men who worked in a bike shop years ago are working together again as one of Boyne City’s long-time downtown businesses changed hands. North Country Cycle, 126 Water St., was sold by owner Mike Cortright, at right, to Chad Wells, at left. Specializing in mountain bikes, e-bikes, full service and related accessories, North Country Cycle was under Cortright’s ownership for the last 11 years. Read our story by Eric Cox below for all the details. And yes, Taco Tuesdays will continue!

Inside this issue:

• Holtec rules out data center at Big Rock Point
• Bay Township votes to leave Boyne City EMS
• Stroll the Streets lineup for Friday night
• 66% of survey respondents want fewer short-term rentals
• County enacts slow-no wake restriction for Thumb Lake
• Kids in Biz program begins Saturday at Farmers Market
• Smooth transition as North Country Cycle changes hands
• Evenings at the Gazebo will be more than just concerts
• C3F grants support Boyne Citizen, 20 other organizations
• Expanded township coverage continues:
• Wilson Twp. - EMS service and gravel pit
• Eveline Twp. - possible bike lane, illegal docks
• It’s the final year for Michigan Mountain Mayhem
• Boyne City plans big July 4th celebration
• Rotary taking orders for 4th of July Chicken BBQ
• Horton Bay’s iconic 4th of July Parade returns
• History Open House in Horton Bay on July 4
• Nature in the Park series for kids begins June 24
• Big drop for Boyne City regular gas prices
• Patrick McCleary history: early Hayes Township history
• News briefs, Obituaries & Municipal News
• Thanks to the donors who keep the news coming!
• Music and entertainment listings

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Holtec rules out data center at Big Rock Point;

Hayes Twp. will continue studying the issue

By Annie Doyle Grove, annie@boynecitizen.com 

After months of public discussion, social media speculation and growing concern about the possibility of a data center at the former Big Rock Point nuclear power plant site, Holtec International says it is not pursuing such a project.

In a June 17 email to The Boyne Citizen, Nick Culp, senior manager of government affairs and communications for Holtec Palisades, stated unequivocally that "Holtec is not pursuing a data center project at Big Rock Point."

"The site's purpose is the safe and secure storage and management of used fuel in accordance with federal regulatory requirements," Culp wrote.

The statement directly addresses speculation that has circulated in recent months regarding the future of the former nuclear plant site at 3990 U.S. 31 North in Charlevoix County's Hayes Township.

According to Culp, Holtec assumed responsibility for the Big Rock Point site in June 2022 as part of the federally approved license transfer tied to Holtec's acquisition of the Palisades nuclear power plant, which the company is working to restart. He said Holtec's responsibility is the safe and secure management of spent nuclear fuel stored at the site's Independent Spent Fuel Storage Installation until the federal government establishes a permanent or interim storage facility.

Culp also clarified that Holtec owns only the portion of the former Big Rock Point property associated with the storage installation, related support facilities and an easement for site access. The larger surrounding property remains owned by Consumers Energy.

The announcement comes as Hayes Township officials continue studying potential regulations for data centers, an effort that has prompted public debate despite the absence of any known proposal.

Following a June 3 public meeting attended by more than 100 residents at the Charlevoix Public Library, Hayes Township Supervisor Bill Conklin issued a public statement emphasizing that no data center proposal was pending in the township.

"There have not been any inquiries, requests for information, plans or any application for a data center in Hayes Township," Conklin wrote.

Planning Commission Chairman Roy Griffitts said Holtec's statement was consistent with information township officials had gathered while researching the issue.

"We're gratified for Holtec's statement," he stated.

At the same time, Griffitts said the township's work is not tied solely to Big Rock Point and that officials intend to continue studying the issue.

"I don't think it (the statement) changes anything," Griffitts said. "Holtec is not the only place or the only company that might ever someday do a data center somewhere."

In February, Hayes Township adopted a moratorium on data center applications and later created a seven-member Data Center Advisory Group to study how communities can prepare for the rapidly evolving industry.

The committee has spent the spring reviewing ordinances, consulting attorneys, attending conferences and examining examples from other communities across Michigan and the country.

Among the cases that drew their attention was Saline Township, near Ann Arbor, where residents and local officials have spent months debating a proposed data center campus that would cover hundreds of acres and consume enormous amounts of electricity.

For Hayes Township officials, Saline serves as a cautionary example.

"They didn't have the opportunity to make changes once the application came in," Griffitts said. "We're trying to make sure we've examined our zoning ordinance and, if we have to, prop that up."

Griffitts said township resident’s opposition to a potential data center remains overwhelming.

"The public sentiment that we hear is probably 95% against a data center," he said.

While Holtec's statement appears to remove the former Big Rock Point nuclear site from consideration, it does not eliminate the broader question of how Hayes Township should respond if a data center proposal is ever brought forward elsewhere in the community.

For that reason, Griffitts says the advisory group will continue its work evaluating potential ordinance changes and identifying ways to strengthen local protections before any proposal arrives.

"What we're really trying to do is create a way to protect Hayes Township," Griffitts said.

Bay Township votes to switch ambulance providers, leaving Boyne City EMS 

By Annie Doyle Grove, annie@boynecitizen.com

Bay Township officials have voted to leave Boyne City EMS and seek emergency medical service from Lake Charlevoix EMS instead, becoming the first community to formally break away from the regional ambulance system amid ongoing disputes over funding and governance.

The decision marks a significant shift for the Boyne City-operated ambulance service, which currently serves Bay, Boyne Valley, Chandler, Eveline, Evangeline, Melrose and Wilson townships in addition to the city itself.

Township trustees voted June 11 to terminate Bay Township's interlocal agreement with Boyne City EMS and apply for membership in Lake Charlevoix EMS, which serves the city of Charlevoix and the townships of Hayes, Charlevoix, Marion and Norwood, as well as a portion of Eveline Township.

Bay Township Supervisor Xavier "X" Gaudard said the township's current agreement requires 180 days notice before ending service.

"We're asking to be out at the end of December," Gaudard said. 

The decision follows months of meetings between Boyne City officials and township representatives as they attempted to resolve disagreements over the cost of operating the ambulance service.

The conflict largely centers on what township officials have dubbed "clawback" charges — invoices issued by Boyne City seeking payment for ambulance service deficits from previous fiscal years. City officials have maintained that past billing practices failed to capture the true cost of operating the service and that recovering those costs is necessary to keep the system financially stable.

Township leaders, however, have repeatedly questioned the city's financial reporting, billing methods and their lack of direct representation in EMS decision-making.

Gaudard said those concerns ultimately led Bay Township to pursue another option.

"We were not going to get a seat at the table," Gaudard said. "The last few years have been a clawback that we just have no control over."

The vote comes several months after Boyne City proposed forgiving several hundred thousand dollars in disputed historical EMS charges and adopting a new funding formula requiring participating townships to contribute the equivalent of 1.5 mills toward EMS operations. 

Township officials continued to object to paying more without having a seat at the table, and no agreement was reached.

While local leaders have repeatedly expressed frustration with the financial side of the arrangement, Gaudard said the quality of service provided by Boyne City EMS has never been in question.

"We had really good service from Boyne City," he said. "It wasn't about service. It was financial."

Lake Charlevoix EMS Board President Roy Griffitts said the authority is prepared to serve Bay Township if its application is approved.

"We are happy to be able to provide service to Bay Township at their request," Griffitts said. "We look forward to coordinating a start of service time."

One of the authority's ambulance stations is located in Hayes Township, which borders Bay Township.

According to Griffitts, Bay Township is currently the only community in the Boyne City EMS service area actively seeking membership in the authority.

The move comes as other townships continue exploring alternatives to Boyne City EMS.

Boyne Valley Township formally notified Boyne City last year that it would not renew its EMS agreement and has recently held public meetings to discuss a possible partnership with Jordan Valley EMS. However, Boyne Valley continues to receive service from Boyne City and has not yet committed to another provider.

Boyne City Mayor Bob Farrell, who also serves as an on-call paramedic with the department, said the city respects Bay Township's right to choose another provider.

"Boyne City has served Bay Township for decades," Farrell said. "If that's the way they're going here, they certainly have the right to do so."

Farrell said he hoped the township's years of service from Boyne City EMS would be remembered positively.

"I would hope that the service they've received has been high quality enough because when we have them in the meetings, they've said it's not a problem with the quality of services," he said.

At the same time, Farrell noted that the departure of any township partner could have financial consequences for the communities that remain.

"The way that the formula works is it's divided by the partners," he said. "If you divide it by fewer partners, all it does is increase the cost."

Gaudard said the township's attorney was preparing the formal notice of termination and expected it to be delivered within days.

As of publication, however, Boyne City officials said they had not yet received any official notification from the township.

Bay Township's application will next be considered by the Lake Charlevoix EMS Authority Board. If approved, it must then receive approval from each member municipality within the authority before going before voters in a November millage election.

If successful, Bay Township would become the first township to officially leave Boyne City EMS, potentially setting the stage for further changes as communities across the region continue to debate how ambulance service should be funded and governed in the future.

Here is a printable PDF of the lineup of all performers for the full season.

You may donate online or mail a check to

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

Thank you!

The Boyne City Planning Department generated this map showing short-term rental locations in the city. Here is a larger PDF version.

66% of survey respondents want fewer short-term rentals in Boyne City

By Annie Doyle Grove, annie@boynecitizen.com 

As Boyne City officials continue to consider the future of short-term rentals, a recent Boyne Citizen survey found most respondents favor reducing the number of vacation rentals allowed in the city's Traditional Residential District.

The informal survey, published June 4, drew 82 responses, including 65 from Boyne City residents and 17 from people living elsewhere.

Among city residents who answered questions about the city's short-term rental ordinance, 43 of 65 respondents, or 66%, said the current cap of 130 short-term rentals in the Traditional Residential District should be lowered. Fifteen respondents, or 23%, favored keeping the cap where it is, while seven respondents, or 11%, said it should be increased.

Many survey respondents echoed concerns frequently raised at public meetings.

Several argued that short-term rentals have reduced housing opportunities for local workers, young families and first-time homebuyers while driving up home prices.

"We should be addressing the needs of people who intend to be full-time residents before those who just want to visit," one respondent wrote.

Another respondent said, "Younger families are moving to other towns because of the lack of housing. My son and his family live in Gaylord."

Others said the issue extends beyond housing and affects the character of residential neighborhoods.

"Boyne is becoming a tourist town, not a livable town where you know your neighbors and can live and work in the same town," one respondent wrote.

Another commenter said, "I miss my long-term neighbors."

Some suggested lowering the cap to between 70 and 90 rentals, while others proposed replacing the fixed cap with a percentage tied to the city's overall housing stock.

Supporters of short-term rentals, however, argued that vacation rentals play an important role in the local economy.

Several respondents noted that Boyne City has limited traditional lodging options and said short-term rentals provide accommodations for visitors who support local restaurants, retailers and attractions.

"I believe short-term rentals help bring the whole economy and downtown Boyne City to a flourishing event every weekend," one respondent wrote.

Another commenter argued that housing affordability is a broader issue, writing, "High prices for homes and rent are a national problem, not just Boyne City."

Others pointed to property improvements and investment generated by vacation rentals.

"I think it's important to realize the improvements in properties brought about by short-term rentals," one respondent wrote.

While opinions varied on the appropriate cap, one area of agreement emerged repeatedly throughout the survey: enforcement.

Several questioned whether the city has an accurate count of active rentals and suggested creating a public dashboard showing licensed properties, complaints and enforcement actions.

In February, city officials acknowledged they could not say with confidence how many short-term rentals were operating in Boyne City. At the time, inconsistent record-keeping and uncertainty over how certain properties were categorized left the city working to verify the true number of licensed rentals.

Updated Planning Department records presented in May now provide a clearer picture of the city's licensed short-term rental inventory. As of May 21, Boyne City had 215 licensed short-term rentals. The largest concentration — 126 units, including 18 owner-occupied or accessory dwelling unit rentals — was located in the Traditional Residential District. The city also reported 26 licensed rentals in the Multi-Family Residential District, 25 in the Central Business District, nine in the Waterfront Residential District, seven in the Rural Estate District and three in the Professional Office District.

The Central Business District had the highest concentration of short-term rentals by percentage of housing units at 23%, followed by the Professional Office District at 20%.

Respondents from both sides of the debate called for stronger oversight of unlicensed rentals, increased penalties for violations and better tracking of complaints involving noise, parking, trash and occupancy limits.

"Those that have not registered should be fined," one respondent wrote. "Boyne City needs to address the situation and not take years to do it."

Others suggested differentiating between owner-occupied rentals and investor-owned properties, while some advocated for encouraging hotel or motel development as a way to accommodate tourism without removing homes from the residential housing market.

"Build a hotel for vacationers to stay in short term. Save the homes for families with children, so we can grow as a community," one respondent wrote.

Look for more reader surveys in upcoming editions of the Boyne Citizen.

County Board enacts slow-no wake restriction for Thumb Lake due to high water levels

By Carole Shane, cjshane@charter.net 

A slow-no wake restriction will remain in effect on parts of Thumb Lake following action taken by the Charlevoix County Board of Commissioners on June 10. 

After a public hearing entitled “Temporary Watercraft Control for Thumb Lake,” the board voted unanimously for a resolution that temporarily reduces the speed limit to “slow-no wake speed only in the narrows between Horner Island and Frog Island, continuing one half mile east of Frog Island to a point from Pioneer Trail at Delta Lane.”

The measure is in place from now through June 24 due to emergency conditions caused by unprecedented rainfall and high water levels. Wave action, including that created by wakes, poses a threat to docks, shoreline, watercraft and other public and private property.

The county board has the option of extending this no wake zone for an additional two week period if needed. After that, the DNR may intervene and extend the emergency measure for an additional six months.

During public comment preceding the hearing, a resident of the Thumb Lake area urged the board to take action, describing water levels that are 46 inches above baseline levels with some homes currently flooded. The resident described Thumb Lake as a “kettle lake,” meaning there are no outlets for water to escape. The only way water levels will recede on Thumb Lake is through evaporation.

There was no opposition to the resolution expressed during the hearing.

Steve Van Dam of the Top of Michigan Trails Council updated the board on the success they have had in the effort to raise funds toward the completion of the Boyne City to Charlevoix non-motorized trail. The group has raised $50,000 and will fund the initial, conceptual design phase. 

Next, Van Dam hopes an additional $240,000 can be raised to fund the first 30% of engineering costs for the final two sections of the “bike trail.”

Van Dam was not petitioning the board for the needed monies, but asked the board to formalize their willingness to act as a pass-through agency for funds that may become available from grants.

Board members voted unanimously to direct the county clerk to draft a resolution declaring the board’s willingness to act as a pass-through for funding that becomes available from other sources.

Van Dam also reintroduced the term “linear park,” which refers to the concept that non-motorized trails can be considered part of the county’s park system, allowing funds from the parks millage to be used for maintenance of and repairs to the county’s trail system.

The board reminded the public that a pasta dinner benefitting the bike trail will be held Thursday, June 18 at Veterans Park in Boyne City from 5 to 7:30 p.m.

Other business before the board included:

• An annual report from Kandi Lannen, CEO of the Area Agency on Aging
• Clarification of information regarding the Plante Moran Audit

Finally, the board went into two closed sessions to discuss the county administrator’s performance review and another legal issue.

Hadleigh Banks, Leon Welch and August Belcher will be one of about 30 “Kids in Biz” selling their wares at the Farmers Market on Saturday.

Kids in Biz entrepreneur program begins Saturday at Boyne City Farmers Market

By Mia Kerner, miamilanek@gmail.com 

Young entrepreneurs will get the chance to run their own businesses this summer through a new “Kids in Biz” program at the Boyne City Farmers Market. The first monthly program will debut this Saturday, June 20, from 8 am to noon, allowing children to sell items, interact with customers and learn the fundamentals of running a business. Future dates for Kids in Biz will be July 18 and Aug. 8.

Children will make and sell their own products, create their own signs, and pay a $5 booth fee to learn about business basics like startup costs, advertising and handling money. At the end of the season, the fee is returned to them in “market bucks” to spend with other vendors.

Adding to the kid-style fun from 10 a.m. to 12 noon this Saturday will be steel drum music from the Island Girl, an ice cream truck, kids games and snacks organized by Briannaca Cobb of Northmen Den Pantries and a group of volunteers, as well as flowers for kids to plant and take home, thanks to Siegrist Greenhouse, which donated pots and soil.

Julie McBee, manager of the farmers market, said she was inspired to create the Kids in Biz program by her years working with kids and her own children’s school business projects, as well as similar initiatives in the northern Michigan area.

Since the market moved outdoors in May, McBee said vendor participation has grown steadily, with 40-50 vendors attending weekly and expectations of 80-90 vendors during peak season. The market is now attracting enough interest that some vendors must be turned away.

The Kids in Biz program has been equally popular, generating a large waitlist and forcing the market to expand from 10 to about 20 youth vendor spots per date. Participants will range from four to five years old through teenagers.

“I just think maybe there's a budding artist out there or a budding baker or, you know, craft maker or whatever, and I want them to see, ‘maybe this really is my passion’ or ‘maybe I want to learn more about business’,” McBee said.
“I just want to get their feet wet and to get the families together as well.”

McBee said she wants the market to feel like a community gathering place rather than just a shopping destination. Special Kids in the Biz dates will include added attractions such as an ice cream truck, live music and a family-friendly atmosphere.

Amanda Banks, a third-year vendor at the farmers market, learned about the Kids in Biz program through her involvement as a vendor. She primarily sells handmade chunky knit blankets, pet mats, catnip toys, seasonal décor, and baby blankets.

Amanda registered her daughter, Hadleigh, for the program. She describes Hadleigh, who is nearly 10 years old, as a “market kid” who spent years attending the market with her mother and has frequently expressed interest in selling her own creations.

“She's a great salesperson,” Amanda said. “She's great with the customers and very, very interactive with everything in the market. Probably every booth knows who she is. She's a great kid and very interested in being an entrepreneur.”

Hadleigh said that she’ll be selling handmade bracelets, necklaces and miniature portraits at the market, giving her a chance to share artwork she has been creating for years.

“I love painting,” she said. “And just talking to all the people and selling stuff, because I like helping my mom sell stuff.”

Sarah Belcher, owner of Beani’s Coffee Lounge, said that she saw the program as a valuable opportunity to introduce her sons, August and Leon, to entrepreneurship while encouraging their creativity and independence.

August, who is almost 10 years old, said he plans to sell original artwork, including drawings that he hopes to turn into stickers, mini notebooks and other creative products. 

Belcher described him as highly artistic and imaginative, making the youth market a natural fit for his interests.

Four-year-old Leon is still deciding exactly what he will offer but has plenty of ideas he is eager to explore.

When asked what they are most excited about, both boys gave a simple and honest answer:

"Making money."

Leo said that he is also looking forward to buying things from other vendors.

“I'm really excited for it,” Belcher said. “I think it's a very cool thing for our community and our town and all the kids here. It's really amazing that they're doing this and taking the time and putting the effort into making sure that there's stuff for our kids to do. It's something that's really unique."

> List of all Kids in Biz participants.

> Event flyer to print.

It’s a smooth transition as North Country Cycle changes hands

By Eric Cox, ericmcox329@gmail.com

One of Boyne City’s long-time downtown businesses changed hands recently. North Country Cycle, 126 Water St., was sold by owner Mike Cortright, a Boyne City native, to Chad Wells of Petoskey.

A full-service bike shop specializing in mountain bikes and related accessories, North Country Cycle was under Cortright’s ownership for the last 11 years. The business first opened in 2001 at 104 S. Park St., a space now occupied by Grain Train Natural Foods Market.

Now 34, Cortright, a 2010 Boyne City High School graduate, began working at North Country Cycle as a 13-year-old. He later graduated from Northern Michigan University, came back home, and bought the shop.

“I had a business degree and wasn’t quite sure what to do with it,” he told the Boyne Citizen. “The prior owner was expressing interest in retiring or closing the store, so I bought it from him. That was a great day.”

Interestingly, Cortright and Wells actually worked together when North Country Cycle had a Petoskey location. Wells managed the store where they were both learning bicycle mechanics.

The 44-year-old Wells is a 2001 Petoskey High School graduate who recently left High Gear Sports after 11 years to fulfill his dream of owning a bike shop. In fact, it’s a dream both men shared, and the hand-off has been extremely smooth, according to Wells.

“This is basically a turnkey operation. Mike’s done such a great job with everything. Just look around,” he said, motioning to the immaculate service area. “It’s all organized and it’s amazing.”

Cortright said the sale of his business was bittersweet as he relinquished an obvious passion. “The highs were super high, and the lows were super low. Overall it’s been very rewarding,” he said.

Now, the two competitive mountain bikers are revisiting their former work arrangement with Wells as manager and Cortright the employee – an arrangement familiar and welcome to both.

Wells said Cortright will remain an employee as long as he wants, assisting with back office tasks and introducing him to key community players and loyal customers.

“I’m trying to introduce him to the right people. I still like working here. So as long as he would like me to work here and help with the transition, I’ll stay,” said Cortright.

Not much with the shop will change under Wells’ ownership. That includes Taco Tuesday, the popular, seasonal mountain biking/foodie event at Avalanche. Featuring made-from-scratch tacos and sauces, Taco Tuesday is Cortright’s brainchild aimed at developing the area mountain biking community.

Drawing as many as 120 mountain bikers at a time, the Tuesday night rallies took root post-Covid, when people were clamoring to get outdoors among other people. The tradition has remained and grown, boosting North Country Cycle’s public profile. 

Wells said Taco Tuesday will definitely continue.

“We’ve had a very warm welcome from the Boyne City community,” Wells declared. “The other night a group of local business owners came in and introduced themselves and wished me luck. And that was great!”

North Country Cycle is an official dealer of Trek and Santa Cruz bicycles. The shop’s service center features suspension repair and other repair services by trained technicians. A variety of related accessories and clothing are also available. To learn more, visit www.northcountrycycle.com.

Evenings at the Gazebo start next week with concerts, Makers Row, food, drinks, family activities

The Boyne Area Chamber Evenings at the Gazebo concert series begins at 6 p.m. next Wednesday, June 24, in Old City Park, and it will include much more than music this summer. Newly added will be:

• Maker’s Row featuring local artisans and creators
• B.C. Pizza of Boyne on site
• Beverage trucks
• Family-friendly activities each week

Here is the entertainment schedule:

• June 24 - Full Moon Jam Band
• July 1 - Katherine Ryan Band
• July 8 - Wyatt and Shari Knapp
• July 15 - Dags Und Timmah!
• July 22 - Billy McAllister
• July 29 - Laura Crowe
• August 5 - Melissa and Jake
• August 12 - Hazel James Band
• August 19 - David Lawston
• August 26 - Nick Veine

Band sponsorships are still available and include guest interaction opportunities, mic time, and business recognition throughout the event. There are still spots available for Maker’s Row and beverage trucks. To participate, contact Chamber Executive Director Jen Clasman via email at director@boynechamber.com. 

Community Foundation grants support Boyne Citizen and 20 other organizations

The Charlevoix County Community Foundation has announced Community Priorities Grants awarded to 21 local organizations totaling $187,857. Grants supported projects focusing on community, human services, health, housing, recreation, economic development, education, and local urgent needs. 

The Boyne Citizen received a grant of $3,788 that will support hiring part-time journalists to cover six surrounding townships on a regular basis - Evangeline, Eveline, Wilson, Melrose, Boyne Valley and Bay.

Other Boyne area organizations receiving funding include the Boyne Area Free Clinic, Boyne Eta Nu Charities, Challenge Mountain of Walloon Hills, Kiersten's Ride, Northern Homes Community Development Corporation, and Northern Lakes Economic Alliance.

> Full story and details about all the grant awards.

Boyne Citizen expands township coverage

You will notice in this week's edition, and in future newsletters, that we have expanded our geographic coverage to include surrounding townships. This week we report on Wilson and Eveline Township board meetings.

This coverage is made possible by funding provided by Press Forward Northern Michigan and the Charlevoix County Community Foundation Community Priorities grants.

Wilson Township Board discusses EMS service and gravel pit zoning

By Kalynn Brower, kalynn.brower@gmail.com 

The Wilson Township Board of Trustees discussed the future of its EMS service, and possible rezoning of a gravel pit at their June 10 regular meeting.

The bulk of the meeting time was spent on discussions about the EMS predicament. Pressured by rising bills for the current emergency service based in Boyne City, trustees weighed multiple factors. They discussed the possibility of raising the township millage to pay for ambulance services or splitting the levy between Boyne City and Jordan Valley, but neither option seemed satisfactory.

Trustees have been actively participating in EMS authority meetings to develop a workable solution. Boyne City’s EMS serves seven area townships, essentially the Boyne City school district. As the various local governments are so different in property values and geography, this issue is “not a simple apples-to-apples cost comparison.” As a potential option, trustees voted to invite Mobile Medical Response from Traverse City, based in Saginaw, to present a service plan for Wilson Township.

In zoning news, the Planning Commission has been looking at property at 4970 Sloop Road near East Jordan, known as the old gravel pit, where people run their 4-wheelers. Property owner Steve Bartlett wants to sell SRM Concrete and rezone the property for industrial use to allow a concrete batch plant on the 123-acre property. 

Supervisor Ray Guzniczak expressed concern about the impact of cement trucks running up and down the gravel road. The rezoning request is scheduled for a public hearing and a vote at the next regular Planning Commission meeting at 6 p.m. Wednesday, July 1. If the Planning Commission approves the rezoning, the county will be notified and has a 30-day timeline to respond, after which the rezoning request would be presented to the full Wilson Township Board for consideration.

Local resident Zachary Shaltz spoke during the public comment period, reporting on the poor condition of the seasonal portion of Lee Road, where he lives. He handed out visuals that show the deeply pitted two track and explained that there has been no grading for three years. Shaltz asked for regular maintenance. The trustees agreed to follow up with the County Road Commission.

Other reports and actions included:

• Dust control applications have begun on township roads, and the crew is working from east to west.
• The township is still waiting for the building department inspector and insurance reports about the Bergman Road explosion.
• Fall Park fishing platforms and bridge, as well as the gazebo, need repairs, replacement, or removal. After discussion the trustees voted to have Bulmann Dock and Lift to repair the wooden docks and add aluminum handrails and flashing. The gazebo will be removed this summer. 
• Township Clerk Marilyn Beebe has been contacted by a couple who were married in the gazebo and have expressed interest in adopting the structure. They will be offered the opportunity to dismantle and haul it away, leaving the electrical and water infrastructure for the township to handle.
• Asphalt at Fall Park, the parking lot, walkway, and basketball court will be resealed and restriped this year.
• Trustees also approved repairs to Barber Road, between BCEJ Road and Rogers Roads.
• The East Jordan Fire Department will fill the water containers, as in the past, at the three cemeteries for no charge.
• The trustees also approved access to township right-of-ways to Wolverine Power Supply Cooperative. This is a continuation of their normal business access, for which they pay a regular fee. 

Eveline Township Board discusses possible bike lane and illegal docks

By Christine Brown, cmjbrown@live.com 

The Eveline Township Board heard a presentation from GFA Engineering of Traverse City for a bike lane feasibility study for a three-mile stretch of Lakeshore/Ferry Road from the Boyne City line to Whiting Park. The hope is to piggyback with the already planned roadwork along this stretch of road with the Charlevoix County Road Commission. 

Multiple display boards were shown and the GFA report will be included on the township website. The plan would expand the existing shoulder width by two to four feet. The engineer said they were looking at adding two or four feet to the existing shoulder width. He said cyclists ideally need five to six feet with four being the minimum.

Bike lanes crossing Porter Creek bridge could be accommodated with the possibility of separate bike bridges on each side of the current bridge.

Cost of the project is estimated to be $1.1 to $1.4 million, and includes additional culverts. The next step is to investigate funding and timelines.

The board also heard a report from Zoning Administrator Will Trute that there are many violations to the current limit of one dock per 100 feet of lake frontage, and the violations are being addressed individually. Trute explained his job is to enforce the current ordinance, not make policy, offer legal opinion or decide issues.

Trute also reported that 11 zoning requests have been approved this year, and five are pending. 52 short-term rental licenses have been granted, all expiring at the end of year. The limit is 60.

Public comment included a number of questions on the lakefront dock issue, including:

• What to do about existing excess dockage when property is sold? 
• What to do about past easements granted by prior neighbors?
• How is grandfathering defined? Is there really such a thing?
• Should the township create a mediation committee to decide these issues?

In other action, the board:

• Discussed the Eveline Township Cemetery, which had its entrance partially washed out. Holly Landscaping will make repairs. The unnamed new township cemetery was also discussed, and officials are working on coming up with a layout and a name. Volunteers are needed on the township Cemetery Committee.
• Reported that the Ridge Road wash-out will be repaved in late summer.
• Heard a Split Committee Report that two parcels have been split – one gaining 29 feet from the adjacent lot, the other gaining 4 feet.

> The next scheduled township board meetings will be at 7 p.m. July 14 and August 11. 

Paul Nicholls, the founder of Michigan Mountain Mayhem: "I had a lot of fun promoting it."

It’s the final year for "Mountain Mayhem," which once brought 1,500 cyclists to Boyne City

By Jim Baumann, jim@boynecitizen.com

Michigan Mountain Mayhem, a cycling road ride that once drew as many as 1,500 riders to Boyne City, will be taking a final curtain call when the event is held this Saturday. Ride organizer Paul Nicholls is giving it up after 16 years due to decreased participation that will bring less than 300 riders here this year. It's not too late to register - here's the website.

The start and finish will be at the Boyne City Middle School. Camping will be allowed outside for Friday and Saturday nights, and there are shower facilities available for all riders.

Here are the highlights of an interview with Nicholls, looking back on how it started and why it faded out.

Yep, the event's been going on for 16 years. It took me about two years to plan it, create it, and promote it. So I've been doing it for about 18 years and we've had 15 events because it was cancelled for Covid in 2000.

So what the heck made you think of doing this - Let's make the hardest ride we can possibly come up with?

When I first got into cycling about 20 years ago, a lot of people were talking about this ride called the Horribly Hilly Hundreds in Wisconsin, and it sold out in just a couple days. I signed up. I did it. And, it was a challenge because cyclists like a challenge. 

Once I got there, I was like, wow, this is really hard, and wow, 1,500 people. It was like $50 back then. I'm thinking “That's a lot of money. I can make money doing it. And I think it would be great for the community. That's what made me do it, and so I copied a lot of what they did. Most rides were kind of subpar, and this ride, there were just a lot of things they did better than the rest. I did a lot of rides, and if there was something that stood out about a particular ride, I would bring it over to the Michigan Mountain Mayhem. One ride had food trucks at the end. I thought that was cool, so I brought it over. Another ride had beer at the end, and people liked that. So I brought that over, you know? I went to one ride that wrapped ham around pickle slices. So I brought that into my food stops. 

After a while, people were like, “Wow, this is the best ride ever.” Within three years it was one of the biggest road rides in the state of Michigan, and it was for many years until Covid. We used to sell out 1,500 riders in like two or three days. We would do 1,200 in two days, and then for a month we would do a lottery to pull the other 300 to make it fair. 

So it dropped off after Covid happened in 2020?

It's gone down around 100, 120 every year since COVID. The first year after COVID, I think we were at 800. 

What else was happening? Why didn’t it get back to those big numbers?

These days, most riders are going into gravel riding or mountain bike riding. There used to be a road event every weekend. Now I think there's only about four road events all year, mine being one of them. Almost every weekend there's a gravel ride now. So the road races are falling apart. I did a gravel race for a few years, but, you know, I'm getting older. I've been doing it for 18 years. 

What was the most fun from the past 18 years?

I had a lot of fun promoting it. Pre-Covid, I did a lot of racing. I would go to bike events all over the state - even other states. I'd get there early, I'd hand out brochures, I'd wear the jerseys, I'd talk to people, and I really enjoyed that - going to different events and promoting the ride. Just talking to other cyclists was great, because I got such good feedback. “You're that guy, or we love the Michigan Mountain Mayhem.” It was kind of an ego boost, and it was fun promoting the ride and hearing how good it was and how much people liked it. 

* * *

Nicholls is proud that, despite the fact that it was a for-profit event, Mountain Mayhem ended up paying local nonprofit organizations a total of $112,004.80 to provide the large number of people needed to run the event. He paid the Northern Michigan Trails Council $46,137, Girl Scouts $15,856, Boyne City Soccer $6,411, Boyne City High School Band $6,130.

Entry forms are now available for the Boyne City Independence Day Run.

Boyne City plans big July 4th celebration

The Boyne City 4th of July organizers are gearing up to celebrate the nation’s 250th birthday. Boyne City bills their event as “The Best 4th in the North,” and committee chair Jessica White says “This year's parade is going to be epic! It falls on a Saturday and the 250th birthday of America the Beautiful.” 

The 4th of July Committee has announced that Olympic gold medal winner Kaila Kuhn will be grand marshal of the parade, which begins at 10 a.m. in downtown Boyne City. Local organizations and businesses can enter the parade for free by filling out this application form.

The parade will also recognise two Honored Citizens - Lloyd Kelsey, a 100-year-old Boyne City native and World War II veteran; and Tammy Remsberg, Boyne City native and longtime 4th of July volunteer who is a recent Gold Medalist World Champion for Women's Power Lifting​.

Registration is also open for the 50th Annual Independence Day Run, which begins and ends at Peninsula Park, and typically attracts 1,000 or more runners and walkers. Choose from a 2-mile or 5-mile course that runs along Lake Charlevoix by filling out this application.

In addition to the parade and race, the full schedule of activities for July 3 and 4 includes Stroll the Streets, an arts and craft fair, bounce houses and water slides for the kids, breakfast at the Eagles Hall, a patriotic mural unveiling, Kiwanis Club kids games and pie eating contest, Rotary Chicken Barbecue, Boyne Valley Garden Club Pie Sale, Boyne River Raft Race, Chamber Duck Race, live music in Veterans Park, and fireworks to end the day at 10:30 p.m.

Rotary taking orders for 4th of July Chicken BBQ

The Boyne City Rotary Club has officially fired up online ticket sales for its famous annual Rotary Chicken Barbecue. Use this link to order. The club will be grilling 750 chicken halves along the Lake Charlevoix waterfront this 4th of July, served alongside fresh coleslaw and their legendary Rotary beans.

Due to high demand, community members are encouraged to lock in their dinners early. Only 600 pre-sale dinners are available for this holiday favorite. Rotary officials expressed their thanks to Preston Feather-Boyne City for a major sponsor donation that allowed the club to keep the barbecue at the same $20 price as last year.

Event details and deadlines:

● Date: Saturday, July 4

● Time: 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. or until sold out

● Location: Veterans Park, Boyne City

● Price: $20 per dinner

● Online ordering deadline: 3 p.m. Friday, July 3

For those who miss the July 3 online ordering window, a limited number of dinners will be available for walk-up purchase in person at Veterans Park starting at 11 AM on July 4, while supplies last.

Proceeds from the 4th of July Chicken BBQ go directly toward supporting community projects. The Boyne City Rotary Club is dedicated to community service and local development. 

GARDEN CLUB PIE SALE - The Boyne Valley Garden Club will hold its annual July 4th pie sale at Veterans Memorial Park Pavilion in Boyne City. Pies may be purchased on the 4th or pre-ordered between from now through June 27. To pre-order, visit www.boynevalleygardenclub.com. On July 4, stop by the pavilion between 9-11:30 a.m., and your order will be ready for pickup.

Horton Creek and Pat Ryan perform on the Horton Bay General Store porch in the 2023 parade.

Horton Bay’s iconic 4th of July Parade returns to celebrate its 150th anniversary, the Sesquicentennial

The countdown has officially begun for the highly anticipated, potentially blink-and-you-miss-it, Horton Bay 4th of July Parade. Kicking off at exactly 1 p.m. on the shores of Northern Michigan, organizers invite locals, tourists, and anyone not wanting to stand in the blazing sun for three hours to attend.

While traditional parades in larger towns require hours of hydration and folding chairs, the Horton Bay parade prides itself on extreme brevity. Festivities will kick off at 12 noon with live music by the Horton Creek Bluegrass Band on the front porch of the historic Horton Bay General Store, followed by the legendary rolling spectacle at 1 p.m. 

This year, Horton Bay officially turns 150 years old. Parade organizer Sue Cooper said, “It's our Sesquicentennial...we're not going to make you say it, but we sure hope you come out and celebrate with us!”

Spectators can expect the usual crowd-pleasing chaos, including the iconic Dancing American Flag, homemade floats, and, of course, the obligatory closing act because the event is never over until the fat lady sings. Hot dogs, brats, and cold beverages will be available on the general store's patio.

The parade committee is actively calling for more entries to join the festivities. "Your float doesn’t have to be elaborate," Cooper said. "It doesn’t even have to be a float. Just bring your friends, an old lawnmower, or a leashed hamster. (Almost) anything goes in Horton Bay!”

All are welcome to grab a spot on the street. No cover charge, no admission fee, just a guaranteed blue-sky afternoon and a lot of fun, Cooper promised.

History Open House in Horton Bay on July 4

The Bay Township Cemetery Committee was recently awarded funding through the America250MI History Grant Program for their project, “Memorial Monuments for Bay Township’s Historic Cemeteries to Honor the Unknown.”

This is part of Michigan’s commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. These granite commemorative monuments will be erected in Dyer and Oaklawn Cemeteries to honor the 108 individuals buried in previously unmarked graves. Though their identities are largely unknown, the township will celebrate their contribution to the early development of Bay Township and northern Michigan.

As part of the grant project, there will be a History Open House at the Bay Township Hall. This free exhibit, “Celebrating Milestones” and a “Kids Corner” with “hands-on history” is being held in conjunction with the Horton Bay 4th of July Parade, which is celebrating the 150th birthday of Horton Bay.

The exhibit will be open to the public from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. and closed only during the parade. Girl Scout Troop 8689 will be giving free America250 flags to the first 150 attendees. 

> Print a flyer for this event. 

Nature in the Park series for kids begins June 24

Charlevoix Conservation District will begin its Nature in the Park youth environmental education program series starting June 24 and continuing on Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. at Old City Park in Boyne City. 

Here is the schedule:

June 24th - River Explorers, in collaboration with Friends of the Boyne River and the Boyne District Library

July 8th - Bugs in Your Backyard

July 15th - Fairy Houses and Gnome Homes

July 22nd - Journey Stick Crafting

July 29th - Nature Scavenger Hunt

All programs are free, and materials are provided but may be limited. These prgrams are geared towards ages 3+. Parents and caregivers are required to stay for the duration of the program. Call 231-582-6193 for more information.

> Print a flyer for this event.

Big drop for Boyne City regular gas prices

Prices for regular unleaded gas dropped 36 cents in the past week to $4.05 per gallon, the lowest level since early April at the Marathon station at 470 N. Lake Street. Diesel are unchanged over the past week at $5.49.. 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
• June 3 - $4.459
• June 10 - $4.459
• June 17 - $4.059

> Michigan gas prices (AAA)

News Briefs

Thursday night's pasta supper fundraiser will support finishing the last six miles of the Boyne City to Charlevoix non-motorized trail.

TRAIL FUNDRAISING DINNER - A pasta supper and silent auction will be held tonight, Thursday, in Boyne City to raise awareness and funds for completion of the Boyne City to Charlevoix Trail. Sponsored by Top of Michigan Trails Council and the Charlevoix County Trail Team, the event will be held from 5 to 7:30 p.m. at the Boyne City Veterans Park Pavilion, 207 N. Lake St., 5-7:30 p.m. 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. Meal prices are $12 for adults; $8 for kids under 9; and $35 for a family of four. Noted Chef Michael Sader is developing the evening’s menu. BC Pizza in Boyne City will supply breadsticks and salad, while Mo Shipley, Becky Goral, and Scott Southwell are creating and providing desserts.

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS - The Boyne Area Chamber of Commerce invites you to kick off the summer season at the After Hours: Summer Kickoff Block Party, hosted by Boyne City Motel and powered by 106 KHQ, on Thursday, June 18, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. This outdoor celebration transforms the motel parking lot into a lively summer gathering featuring live music from Eric Dane Jaqua, One Man Band, sponsored by Boyne City Hardware, along with catering by BC Pizza, yard games, outdoor fun, and tours of the motel’s newly upgraded guest spaces. Business After Hours is free and the public is invited to attend.

NO TRANSIT ON FRIDAY - Charlevoix County Transit will be closed with no service on Friday, June 19. Regular service will resume on Monday, June 22. Call 231-582-6900 to reserve transit rides. 

DEMOCRACY MARCH - The Charlevoix County Women for Democracy will hold their regular third Saturday “Join in Boyne” rally at 11 a.m, Saturday, June 20, in front of Boyne City Hall. They will begin gathering and organizing at 10:45, with the rally for freedom beginning at 11 a.m. and ending at noon. Organizers invite anyone to join them and they said, “Bring a sign or a bell or a flag! If you are unable to stand or walk for an hour bring a chair.”

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:

• Boyne District Library - 1-5:30 p.m. Monday, June 22.
• Bulmann Dock & Lift, 175 Magnet Dr., Boyne City -10 a.m.- 2:30 p.m. Monday, July 27.

> 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 at 411 E Division St, Boyne City. 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 June lunch menu, the June activity calendar, and the June Senior Hi-Lites newsletter.



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> Why Lyme disease is surging in your backyard - YouTube video

City of Boyne City Municipal News

ELECTION INSPECTORS - Are you interested in being certified to work an election? Charlevoix County Clerk Julia Drost will be hosting five Election Inspector Training Workshops this summer, including in Boyne City on June 18 and July 9, and in Charlevoix on June 25 and July 16. These workshops are open to the public, and there will be applications available for those wanting to become election inspectors at their local precincts. These trainings are a requirement for election inspectors every two years after being certified. Here is the full schedule of trainings.

BUBBLERS FORUM - The City of Boyne City is hosting a community discussion forum at 6 p.m. Thursday, June 18, for the purpose of discussing bubblers in our community. Bubblers are devices that prevent ice from forming around docks in the winter.

WATER QUALITY REPORT for the City of Boyne City is available online or pick up a printed copy at City Hall. 

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.

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

Michael Buttigieg Celebration of Life will be held

at 2 p.m. Saturday, June 27th, at Frog Hollow Farm. Michael's obituary.

Duane Brandt

October 12, 1962 — June 9, 2026 (age 63)

Lucy Ann Ackland

September 15, 1942  -  June 6, 2026 (age 83)

Janice Lynn (Smith) Ruback

July 6, 1946 ~ June 9, 2026 (age 79)

Charlevoix County’s township histories speak a great deal to not only rural and farming life but also contain direct ties between rural residents and the citizens within our villages and cities. Photograph courtesy of the Patrick McCleary collection. 

THROUGH THE HISTORIAN'S LENS

A trip into early Hayes Township history

By Patrick McCleary

In last week’s edition of the Boyne Citizen, we learned that new coverage will be expanding into township coverage along with Boyne City news. Expanding geographic coverage to include surrounding townships has a long history within Charlevoix County newspapers - including the earliest issues of the Boyne Citizen and its counterparts.

In the early days, itinerant photographers would often travel the back roads along with newspaper editors taking photographs of homes and farms. In some cases, the county would hire them to do this as a means of documenting and advertising the prosperity of the area to those seeking to settle down - a sort of “see what we have to offer” concept. The advantage to the photographer was that, in most cases, once the images could be viewed, most farmers or homeowners would purchase the images. These farm views crop up in the family photographs of many of our ancestors. In most cases however, we are not aware that this is how they came to be. 

In Charlevoix County, the very earliest of these were taken by George W. Priest, a photographer who arrived on the scene in Charlevoix in 1897. His earliest work captured the images of log cabins, lumber camps and small-scale sawmills and farming operations. The name of the 1909 photographer mentioned in the article below is unknown to me. His course of travel that day was the Boyne City-Charlevoix Road, covering the area between Charlevoix and Horton Bay. Also included below are two of the farm images taken that day with the additional images of their respective owners, found within this author’s personal collection. 

Extracted from:

The Charlevoix Courier

Wednesday, September 29, 1909

Page 1 Column 6

CHARLEVOIX AND HAYES TOWNSHIPS

____

Are the Homes of Progressive Farmers

___

WHO ARE MAKING A SUCCESS

___

In the Raising of Fruit and all Other Crops

___

Beautiful Farm Homes and Well-Kept Orchards Are to be Seen on Every Hand –

Are Alive to Possibilities.

___

Last week it was our good fortune to accompany County Clerk Payton and the photographer on their mission of securing views of farm scenes to advertise the glorious possibilities of Charlevoix County, to the people, who are listening to the cry of “back to the land” and seeking a patch of ground which they might call their own, and lure them away from the siren call of the West.

The trip this time was taken through the townships of Charlevoix and Hayes. The first stop was made at the farm of George Durance, where a fine view was taken of Mr. Durance’s cabbage patch. Mr. Durance also has a crop of potatoes and a strawberry patch worth going miles to see. The next stop was made at the Waller farm, where the well-kept buildings and the acres of orchards make a showplace which will well repay a visit to them; here a view was taken of the buildings, also plum trees loaded down with fruit.

Passing into Hayes we stopped at the orchard of LeRoy Hamlin and secured a view of his orchard, which has been well cared for. Passing by the farm of Henry Hamlin, where a barn which is highly creditable to Charlevoix County is being finished, the Jerrichow farm and others which were equal to those we stopped at, we ran up to E. G. Wightman’s to secure a view of a field of squash and a field of corn, which proves that Hayes Township raises corn.

The farm home of Frank Leslie Sneathern (1862-1937) and his wife, Martha Ellen (Burns) Sneathen (1872-1962). The barn was built in 1900. Photographs courtesy of the Patrick McCleary collection.

Our next stop was made at Frank Sneathen’s, which bears all the marks of an up-to-date farmer. Here we took a view of a grape arbor loaded with fruit. Next, we visited the Sand-bed farm, owned by E. E. Stroud, and secured a view of his silo [and] also an apple tree well fruited.

The farm home and orchard of Fred Benger Sneathen (1856-1919) and his wife, Francis Lucelia (Annis) Sneathen (1861-1923). Photograph courtesy of the Patrick McCleary collection.

The beautiful farm home of Fred Sneathen next claimed our attention. One could travel miles, in any part of the United States, without seeing a more ideal home than Mr. Sneathen’s. The buildings, orchards and crops all indicate the dwelling place of a farmer who understands his profession. Here a view was taken of the buildings, a scene of apple picking in the orchard and a peach tree loaded down with beautiful fruit.

Pressing on to the Village of Horton Bay, we secured a view of peach trees, bending beneath their burden, belonging to Mrs. Carlstein and the home of A. J. Stroud.

As in our previous trips, a constant source of regret was felt that we had to leave so much behind that was as worthy of a place in the collection as those we secured. We urge that all farmers report what they have in the way of pictures or reports of good crops. One thing that impressed us in Hayes was that better care has been given, in most cases, to their orchards than in the other sections of the county visited, but a vast amount of labor is yet to be done before the farmers reap the benefits awaiting them.

> 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, 3-9 p.m. Saturdays.

> Summer car and bike concert series begins and continues every Tuesday at 6 p.m.:

• June 23 - Scarkazm
• June 30 - Derailed
• July 7 - Timberline
• July 14 - Peril

BOYNE ARTS CENTER - 211 Water Street, Boyne City, (231) 622-2073.

> Upcoming events, classes and exhibits:

• Plein Art Meet-ups - Tuesdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
• 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

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:

• Saturday, June 20 - Island Girl (Kickoff to Summer, Kids In Biz)
• Wednesday, June 24 - Chris Michels
• Saturday, June 27- Terry Coveyou

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

• Mondays - Trivia
• Thursdays and Saturdays - Adam and the Cabana Boys, 7-10 p.m.
• Friday, June 12 - Hanna von B performs from 7-10 p.m. She is a solo singer and acoustic guitarist whose musical roots began in Northern Michigan. Returning from Aspen, Colorado for a special visit, she brings a versatile repertoire that blends folk, blues and indie pop into her show.
• Saturday, June 13 - 10th Anniversary Party with the Sleeping Gypsies, 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 June - Nelson Olstrom performs, 7-10 p.m.

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

> LIVE MUSIC:

• 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, June 19 - Sean Bielby, 7-10 p.m.
• Saturday, June 20 - Nelson Olstrom, 7-10 p.m.
• Friday, June 26 - Jeff Joseph, 7-10 p.m.
• Saturday, June 27 - Pete Kehoe, 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.

• Add events here

LAVENDER HILL FARM - 7354 Horton Bay Rd N, Boyne City. 231-582-3784.

> Live music concert series held in a renovated multi-use events barn:

• June 20 - Willow Avalon
• June 27 - Lemon Squeezy
• July 7 - 1964 The Tribute
• July 8 - 1964 The Tribute
• July 18 - Bobby Alu
• July 24 - Unspoken Tradition
• Aug. 7 - Lavender Goes Pink with Thornetta Davis
• Aug. 15 - West Texas Exiles
• Aug. 22 - Damn Tall Buildings
• Sept. 19 - Sionainn Laoi For The Boyne Heritage Center

> Pre-show Local Ground concerts line-up.

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

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

> LIVE MUSIC and events:

• 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. 

• Summer skating - June 20, July 18, August 8 from 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 & Stand-up hosted by Peter Allen Jensen, 6-9 p.m.

> Live Music 6-9pm:

• Friday, June 19 - Bruce & The Originals 
• Friday, June 26 - Peter Allen Jenson 

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

Live music:

• 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

© Copyright 2026 Boyne Citizen, all rights reserved