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March 27, 2025 | Issue #28 | Past issues

Robotics team celebrates!

Boyne City Blaze robotics team members Alizebeth Lewis, Ethan McQueen, Will Minnaar, Benjamin Ivie, and Jeremy Stout jump for joy as they learn that their alliance took first place in competition at Lake Superior State University last week. The team is likely headed to state competition after the big victory. Read our story below.

Inside this issue

• Five candidates for interim city manager
• Cain’s contract provided severance pay, but...
• Planning Chair Aaron Place resigns over master plan
• Mayor Nemecek responds to Aaron Place criticism
• What’s coming to former Country Now & Then building
• Fox’s Pizza Den sells out; Muskrat adds food
• BC Blaze robotics team takes top honors
• News briefs, Municipal News, Obituaries
• Thanks to the donors who keep the news coming!
• Music and entertainment listings

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Commission hopes to interview five candidates for interim city manager

By Jim Baumann, jim@boynecitizen.com 

The Boyne City Commission took steps toward hiring an interim city manager at their regular meeting on Tuesday, deciding to invite five candidates for interviews. The commission is also asking five search firms/recruiting organizations to submit proposals to assist the city in finding a permanent manager.

They decided to invite Jeff Thornton, Ted Andrzejewski, Nate Geinzer, D. Wayne O’Neal and an unnamed person from Pentwater to interview for the interim job. The candidates are being asked to send a resume, references, availability and salary expectations. The hope is that interviews with the full City Commission can be set up in about two weeks, and a special meeting may need to be scheduled for the interviews. The prospective candidates list comes largely from this page on the Michigan Municipal Executives website.

Jerry Richards of the Michigan Municipal League gave the commission a detailed presentation on the league’s executive search service, which he said typically takes 120 days to complete for a fixed price of $18,500. The City Commission will consider the MML proposal, but they are also asking for proposals from several additional search firms before making a decision.

Mayor Tim Nemecek said he talked with representatives of the Petoskey City Council when he attended the Municipal League Conference in Lansing last week, and they spoke highly of the MML search service. Petoskey had initially hired a private search firm and switched to MML after becoming dissatisfied with the other company's results. 

In other action Tuesday, the City Commission:

> Heard a report from Mayor Tim Nemecek that the Boyne City Housing Commission’s proposed 60-unit apartment building is facing a $5-million funding gap, mainly due to cuts in state and federal funding.

> Directed City Attorney Matt Cross to file a request to apply to become an "intervenor" with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, allowing the city to provide comments on issues related to the Boyne Resorts dam on the Boyne River.

> Appointed four people to the Economic Development Corporation - Ralph Gillett to a term ending 3/11/2030, Josette Lory to a term ending 3/11/2031, and David Krawec filling a vacancy for a term ending 3/11/2029.

> Appointed three people to the Local Development Finance Authority - Kelly Bellant to a term ending 3/11/2028, Josette Lory to a term ending 3/11/2028, Brian Eckerle to a term ending 3/11/2029, and David Krawec filling a vacancy for a term ending 3/11/2029.

> Approved a mayoral proclamation proclaiming Arbor Day in the City of Boyne City as Friday, April 25. In celebration of Arbor Day, the City, in partnership with the Boyne Valley Garden Club and Friends of the Boyne River, will distribute over 700 evergreen tree seedlings, including Blue and Norway Spruce, Red and White Pine and a variety of deciduous trees. This year marks the 21st consecutive year of earning the designation of "Tree City USA.” Details on the tree giveaway will be announced.

> Approved a proclamation designating the week of April 27 - May 4 as National Volunteer Week in the city.

> Approved a proclamation designating April as Sexual Assault Awareness month in the city.

> City Commission's next regular meeting is at 12 p.m. Tuesday, April 8. The agenda will be posted here.

> The City Commission has scheduled its third budget session for Friday, March 28, at 8:30 a.m. Agenda page.

Cain’s contract provided 9 months of severance pay, but City Commission fired him “for cause”

By Jim Baumann, jim@boynecitizen.com 

The Boyne Citizen made a Freedom of Information Act request and received a copy of former City Manager Mike Cain’s employment contract with the City of Boyne City. 

A key provision of the contract states: “In the event the City exercises its right to terminate the employment of the Employee without just cause and he is willing and able to perform the duties of City Manager, the City shall compensate the Employee in an amount equal to nine (9) months of the Employee's then current salary and benefits.”

Since Cain’s salary plus benefits amounted to $178,922, paying him nine months’ severance would amount to $134,191. 

The City Commission was clearly concerned about this when they fired him in a meeting on March 11, because the motion to terminate included the words “for cause.” 

Minutes from the meeting state: “Moved by Farrell, Second by Pritchard. Approve a vote of no confidence for the City Manager and we terminate the employment contract for cause and for the Attorney to engage to identify that transition time.”

Cain’s contract allows him 30 days after termination “to contest such termination at a due process hearing before the City Commission.”

Here are more details from the contract:

“However, in the event the employment is terminated because of (a) the Employee's conviction for an unlawful act; (b) for a City Charter violation; (c) for failure to perform the duties of the office of City Manager as set forth herein or in the City Charter; or (d) Employee's voluntary resignation, then, in any of those events, the City shall have no obligation to provide either the severance pay or the continuance of City provided insurances at its expense as set forth in this section. No such findings by the City Commission shall be arbitrary or capricious. Employee shall be entitled, upon written request of said Employee to be filed with the City within thirty (30) days of the receipt of notice of termination by the City Commission, to contest such termination at a due process hearing before the City Commission. At such hearing both parties shall be entitled to call witnesses and present information either deems relevant to the matter at hand. At the conclusion of the hearing the City Commission shall either reaffirm or rescind their previous action to terminate through a formal vote of the Commission.”

> PDF of the city manager's full employment contract.

Planning Commission Chair Aaron Place resigns over City Commission criticism of master plan

By Jim Baumann, jim@boynechamber.com 

Criticism of the City of Boyne City’s draft Master Plan has resulted in the resignation of long-time Planning Commission Chairman Aaron Place. The Planning Commission is the local board that is authorized by state law to create and update the community’s master plan. Place had served on the Planning Commission since 2013 and was chairman since 2019.



He resigned in a March 12 letter, saying: “After careful reflection on my time serving the community, I have decided to pursue new opportunities that align more closely with my personal and professional goals.”

“Recent developments, particularly the City Commission’s assessment of our work on the Master Plan with Beckett and Raeder, have prompted me to re-evaluate my contributions and direction within the Commission. While I remain deeply committed to the growth and improvement of Boyne City, I believe that stepping down will allow both the Commission and myself to move forward in ways that best serve the interests of our community.”

City Commissioner Sandy Pritchard has attended many Planning Commission meetings and has been an ongoing critic of the master plan and the Beckett & Raeder consulting firm hired by the city to help create the plan, which ended up being a 100-page document. 

In a March 6 letter that apparently led to Place’s resignation, Pritchard said, “I find the content of the Beckett & Raeder (BRI) 2025 City of Boyne City Master Plan Work Product in its current state severely lacking.”

“Everyone would agree the Action Plan should be the meat and substance of this entire endeavor. At minimum, the Plan should fulfill all that was promised in Task #4 of the original BRI proposal: a solid Strategy and Road Map. … I was expecting more than a one-pager, and certainly a multifaceted one that addressed the entirety of the City of Boyne City. I don't think I'm alone in that expectation.

“For the most part, the list of ‘clear and actionable steps’ only speak to Housing and Zoning initiatives, mostly in the DDA, many of which the City Commission already had underway,” Pritchard said in her letter. “We have already experienced significant waste of valuable time by the multiple Boards, Commissions, and other stakeholders. We are now faced with still more waste and redundant processes, as the BRI Work Product in its current state is unacceptable and must be revised.”

The Planning Commission approved the draft master plan on Jan. 20, forwarding it to the City Commission, which unanimously approved it for a 63-day public distribution period through April 11. At that meeting, however, commissioners questioned why the only action plan focus in the Master Plan was geared towards housing, and that “actionable plans need to address the broader needs of the community.” They also expressed concerns with a future (downtown) land use map on page 95 of the plan, and how those changes will affect Main Street.

Beckett & Raeder lead consultant John Iacongelli explained the next steps towards adoption of the plan. For 63 days, the public can review the plan and provide comments. Then the Planning Commission reviews the revisions they feel are appropriate and makes recommendations for changes. Then an open house is scheduled for the community, the Planning Commission holds a public hearing, the Planning Commission makes a recommendation to the City Commission, and then the City Commission has the ability to adopt it or ask for changes. 

Aaron Place defended the choice of Beckett & Raeder over McKenna, the only other bidder, as the master plan consultant for several reasons. “McKenna had never really done resort communities of our size or even in Northern Michigan,” Place said, “and they wanted to do a lot of the meetings by remote. They didn't actually want to come up to Boyne to do anything. And during our interview, they were using their Owl system, which we have as well, and they could not get it to work. And so if they're going to be relying on this technology to be interacting with the public, it really didn't seem like it was the best fit.” 

Other factors favoring Beckett & Raeder were that they have an office in Traverse City and had worked with smaller resort communities in Northern Michigan.

“So we really saw that Beckett and Raider was a better choice, especially since we'd used them in the past, and the majority of the cities around us have used them as well,” Place said. “They came up with a master plan that was easily digestible. They were trying to make it so anyone could pick up the master plan and understand it.” 

Responding to the City Commission’s criticism of the master plan and the Planning Commission, Place said, “For a group that wants to be transparent, and telling us how transparent they are, they're not doing a very good job of explaining why they're making decisions. They're not letting a lot of the boards, especially the Planning Commission, know why they're doing what they’re doing.”

Since Scott McPherson retired in December, Place said, “Going forward it is going to be very difficult for the Planning Commission without a zoning administrator. It seems like they're having lots of trouble finding someone who wants the position. And I think they're also going to have a really hard time finding a city manager that wants to be in this situation that we're in. I'm really saddened at how quickly the City Commission enacts things without having a plan.”

Place said Mayor Nemecek’s poor attendance at Planning Commission meetings was frustrating. “We have a mayor that is our liaison to the City Commission, and he hasn't been showing up to our meetings - without any reason, not even asking to be excused - just not showing up. He's supposed to be our direct line to the City Commission, which means we're not getting any information.

“And I understand people have lives, and he's got a lot of meetings, but he doesn’t even tell us ahead of time, ‘I'm not coming to this meeting.’ So if you look back, there's a record of him not being excused for all of those meetings, because he did not ask to be excused.”

A check of the Planning Commission minutes shows that Nemecek missed four of the last six meetings, with one of his four absences excused. He was present for October and January; absent and not excused in February, December and September; and he had an excused absence in November.

‘The City Commission right now has given us very little direction as to what to do. Unfortunately, I was just at a point where I didn't want to start guessing, because it seems like when we guess, then we get slapped down,” Place said.

Place wants to continue to be involved as a volunteer for the city. He is a member of the Zoning Board of Appeals and hopes to be reappointed. His term as a Planning Commissioner was ending in May, and he planned to step down and let others take on leadership roles. Presumably, Planning Commission Vice Chair Nichole Moblo will become chairman at their next meeting, scheduled for April 21.

A few people have asked him to consider running for City Commission, and he said he might be a candidate two years from now, but not this year due to other plans and commitments.

Mayor Nemecek responds to Aaron Place criticism

The Boyne Citizen offered Mayor Tim Nemecek the opportunity to respond to former Planning Commission Chairman Aaron Place’s comments about him and the City Commission in the interview printed above. Here is his response:

The assertion that the City Commission lacks transparency is a matter of perspective. However, it's crucial to highlight the tangible steps taken to enhance transparency beyond prior city commissions historical practices. This Commission has implemented virtual participation for residents, a relatively uncommon practice in rural Northern Michigan. This initiative, which began with my personal live broadcasts, culminated in the city's acquisition of the 'OWL' system, enabling virtual participation in all City Commission and board meetings. Furthermore, a formal public comment policy was established to ensure resident concerns are addressed and responded to, both individually and publicly at the following city commission meeting.

The establishment of liaisons for each board and commission, including myself for the Planning Commission, has significantly improved information flow. Again this is an action lacking from previous City Commissions. Additionally, the Commission has consistently held joint board meetings to foster communication and address concerns. Notably, other board chairs and vice-chairs regularly attend City Commission meetings when relevant topics arise. Unfortunately, Mr. Place did not avail himself of these opportunities, which could have mitigated his frustrations. The Commission's commitment to thorough deliberation, as evidenced by our 'lengthy meetings,' is a testament to our dedication to informed decision-making and collaborative approach.

Contrary to Mr. Place's claims, I have consistently striven to share information and ensure accessibility. While tensions may arise, my dedication to transparency is evident in my actions. I serve on six boards and commissions, including three Charlevoix County boards, two Boyne City boards, and one state-level board. My intention in serving on these boards is to improve my leadership skills and to better serve the City of Boyne City.

My unexcused absences were due to a vehicle accident, a pre-planned vacation communicated in advance, and a schedule change I needed to make to be able to represent Boyne City at a Michigan Municipal League conference. Any absences were communicated to the city manager or planning and zoning director. Had Mr. Place raised his attendance concerns directly, they could have been easily explained and addressed. It’s clear that Mr. Place has a dislike for me or does not support me as the liaison member to the planning commission, due to his failure to mention any frustration in regards to some of his planning commissioner colleagues' attendance. Notably, other Planning Commissioners have missed more meetings than I have as the liaison member, which Mr. Place fails to mention.

I respect Mr. Place's service and his decision to resign. However, his claims of 'little direction' are unfounded. The recent joint board meeting, where the City Commission explicitly requested boards and commissions to communicate any challenges or struggles they faced, provided an opportunity to address such concerns, which he did not utilize. I believe if Mr. Place genuinely had these frustrations, he should have taken the many paths afforded to him to resolve them. Unfortunately, this is the first I'm hearing about his frustrations that led to his resignation, which, to me, seemed timely in line with the recent decisions regarding leadership changes. I would encourage you and others to reach out to other City Commissioners and see if they were aware of the frustrations Mr. Place has communicated to the Boyne Citizen as his reasoning for resigning. I would assume that the other City Commissioners will be hearing about it for the first time while reading this weekly article. His resignation, coupled with the blame he places, suggests a lack of constructive problem-solving.

I have a track record of working collaboratively to resolve complex issues, as demonstrated by my involvement in:

• Working with “We the people of Boyne City” on the Marina concept #3 approved project.
• MCC Ray St proposal.
• Main Street appointment process.
• Main Street DDA district resident appointment.
• EMS township meeting.
• CSWRF conversations.
• Open Space Park Grant - voted down then brought back.
• Rezoning of north Boyne properties.

Given the frustrations Aaron has expressed in the Boyne Citizen, I believe it would be worthwhile to determine whether these concerns are shared more broadly and, if so, consider whether another City Commissioner should take on the Planning Commission liaison role. City Commissioner Sandy Pritchard regularly attends Planning Commission meetings, so I will check with her to see if she is interested in assuming the role if it would help address these concerns. I have no issue making changes when necessary to foster a productive environment. This is not about ego—I am solely focused on what is best for Boyne City. Given my current responsibilities since recent leadership changes taking place, I am more than willing to pass this role to another commissioner if it benefits the community.

Building owner Chris Korona has big plans for these downtown buildings.

Tile design center and shaved ice stand coming to former Country Now & Then building

By Jamie Baumann, jamie@boynecitizen.com 

A tile store, a Hawaiian shaved ice stand, an upstairs apartment, and a commercial space for lease are coming to 211 Water Street in the former Country Now and Then/Up The Lazy River building. It was purchased by entrepreneurial couple Chris and Jamie Korona of Gaylord in October 2024.

"We purchased the building without knowing what we would do with it," Chris said "We thought due to its location in the busy downtown area in Boyne City, it was a good investment. We were very excited to get started."

The couple has taken several old buildings in Gaylord and remodeled them with their development company, Developmitt. For example, in the last six months in Gaylord, they worked on four two-bedroom houses to create some lower income housing. They also completed an industrial warehouse that they now lease out. 

Developmitt was a natural progression from the work the couple did when they owned the Downtown Design Center in Gaylord and did all of their own construction work with the tile they sold. Developmitt only works on their own construction and renovation projects. 

"We thought putting a tile store in Boyne City was something we could hit the ground running with," Chris said. "I have always enjoyed the artistic side of tile work. Now, I'm thinking I would like to get back into it." 

The Boyne City tile showroom, which will be called Downtown Design Center, will be located in the eastern part of the building. It will focus on designing and selling custom tile jobs and handling construction with tile, including tile floors, backsplashes, showers and surrounds. "We can do some beautiful work in master bathrooms," Chris said. 

The center section between the two buildings will house a seasonal shaved iced stand, modeled after popular outlets in Hawaii. Blocks of ice are put through a machine that shaves it, making a soft, fluffy dessert with added flavorings and condensed milk. The texture is soft like snow. "It's really neat stuff," Chris said. "We will put a patio out there where people could walk up to the window and order the shaved ice." The smooth texture makes shaved ice unique from slushies, where the texture is coarser. 

The current plan for the west side of the building is to drywall it off and set it up to be available for a commercial lease. However, if they don't get a lease tenant in a few months, once the project is done and they have some "breathing room," then they would consider starting their own yet-to-be-determined business in that section of the building. 

The Koronas have already submitted plans to the Charlevoix Countyounty Building Department, but they aren't asking for any variances.

For the past four years, the couple has owned the Food N Stuff restaurant in Gaylord, which is managed by Jamie Korona.

Chris Korona supervises the work crew that is remodeling the interior of the former Up The Lazy River storefront, which will soon be a tile showroom called Downtown Design Center.

Fox's Den Pizza franchise owners Ben Schakel and Jason Maynard with manager Dustin Burch.

Fox’s Pizza Den sells out on first two nights

The Boyne City Fox's Pizza Den franchise opened Monday and sold out of pizza on their first and second nights. "Business has been excellent. We have been steadily busy," owner Jason Maynard said.

The franchise is owned by Jason and Jeanette Mayrand and Ben and Mandy Schakel. All are from Holland, Michigan The local manager is Dustin Burch.

The Maynards own a second home in the Petoskey area and love coming up north. They also own a trucking company in Holland. 

"This was a good opportunity to get our feet wet with the Fox's franchise. It is a great location and a smaller store. This won't be the only one. We are looking to expand to other nearby communities. I like to stay busy," Maynard chuckled.

Fox's Pizza Den is located at 104 S. Water Street in Boyne City and is open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily with a menu featuring hand-tossed and gourmet pizzas, hoagies and wedgie sandwiches, fried appetizers and wings, salads, and desserts. You may order online at foxspizza.arrowpos.com or by calling (231) 697-6011. Food may be purchased for pick-up or delivery, and Fox's Pizza Den has a rewards program for repeat customers. 

From left are Blaze Robotics team members sophomore Emma Patten and seniors Ethan McQueen and Alizebeth Lewis, shown shortly after a winning performance at LSSU last week.

BC Blaze robotics team takes top honors

Boyne City Blaze, the high school's FIRST Robotics team, is likely headed to state competition after its alliance took first place in competition at Lake Superior State University last week. 

Matches are played with alliances of three teams and their robots competing in games against three other teams and their robots. The alliances change throughout the three days of competition. FIRST means "for inspiration and recognition of science and technology." 

The overall win helped to rank Boyne City Blaze as number 68 of the 528 robotics teams in Michigan. The top 160 teams are invited to state competition. There is one more weekend of district competitions, in which Boyne City Blaze will not be participating, so rankings could change a bit after the weekend. Teams are allowed to participate in as many competitions as they choose or can afford. Scores earned from the highest two competitions are used to compile the rankings. Boyne City Blaze competed in two district competitions to earn their ranking. 

Michigan has 528 teams and the next highest number of teams in a state is California with about 200 teams. Michigan is allotted spots in the world tournament for the top 40 state finishers. World competition will be held in Houston this year. 

Head coach Missy Schroeder stressed how competing in robotics doesn't only teach students technical skills. They must learn bookkeeping, fundraising, teamwork, collaboration, competition and public relations skills. “It’s the hardest fun you will ever have,” she said.

The LSSU competition was a case in point to show the importance of non-technical skills in addition to the technical skills needed to succeed. On Thursday and Friday, Boyne City Blaze competed, but they were randomly assigned to weak alliances. Though their own robot performed well, the alliances weren't winning matches. By Friday night, Boyne City Blaze ranked 38 out of 40. 

However, all teams each kept statistics on their own robots’ performance in the matches and posted them. All the teams had scouts that watched other matches and took notes. On the final day of competition, the top six teams were allowed to choose two other teams to form their competitive alliances. Based on the stats and teamwork and communication skills shown by Boyne City Blaze, the number one team, Gladwin BraveBots, chose the Boyne City Blaze and the St. Francis of Traverse City's Gladiators to be part of their three-team alliance. That alliance of three teams ultimately swept all their matches to win the tournament.

"We didn't win all our matches, but our stats went up. That is how we got picked by the number one team," Missy said. 

"It is my philosophy that if someone wants to participate, we will find a spot for them,” Missy said. "Some teams have engineers as mentors and companies that give thousands of dollars, especially from the big three automakers and Dow. They even require certain GPAs to be on them. We don’t. I believe anyone can find a spot to use their talents."

Missy has seen students go from doing very poorly academically to making the honor roll after joining the robotics team. 

"We have several sponsor partners from the Boyne City Business Park. Our biggest sponsor is Bulmann Dock & Lift, which donated all the aluminum. They take us to their warehouse and let us have whatever we need," Missy said.

FIRST Robotics is a world-wide competition. Each year the competition game the robots play changes, as do the rules of the game. These are released world-wide in the beginning of January. Students are allowed to fabricate any parts they choose; however, they may not spend more than $600 on any one part. Students need to understand the game, strategize which skills will be needed by the robots to successfully play offense and defense, design the robot and build it. Missy’s husband Krale Schroeder is the mentor for the build team. 

Senior Ethan McQueen, who will major in mechanical engineering at the University of Michigan next year, has been involved with FIRST Robotics since the eighth grade. Now he is the build captain, the drive coach, operator coach, chief strategist, and he mentors the two co-presidents. The student drivers position the robot on the field. The operators handle the movement of the parts of the robot to do various functions. McQueen directs all in real time during a game. 

"When I first started in eighth grade, it was overwhelming being with the older experienced students,” McQueen said. “I thought, 'I don't know what I'm doing. Will I fit in?' But as years have gone on I have learned mechanical and communication skills and socializing - specifically in the drive coach role. Being a senior, I look back at the eighth grade me and try to eliminate that feeling for the new people coming in. I want to provide leadership for members who joined to find a comfortable place," McQueen said. 

Senior Alizebeth Lewis is the computer electrical lead and the technical lead for the drive team. "I do all the wiring for the robot and bring the robot on the field and fix anything before the game begins. I am the final check," Lewis said. Off the field, Lewis does diagnostics for the pit crew and relays any issues, so they can fix them. Lewis has been involved in robotics since eighth grade. 

She is proud of the fact that at LSSU when their robot played defense, a top-scoring team scored 38 points less than it had averaged previously. She plans to attend Michigan Tech and major in electrical engineering. 



"I have learned so much. I used to be very antisocial. I had not spoken in front of judges. I actually spoke about our community impact for the Youth Advisory Council to 100-200 people in the stand plus 500 people who streamed in. I'm still shy to people I don't know, but I know judges and robotics team members are nice." 

Alizebeth has been a part of the community impact team that organizes events and outreach like their booths at Stroll the Streets, where people can see the robot in action. 

The robotics team organized a project called "Go Baby Go," where they modified a basic Power Wheels car for a toddler with mobility issues. They modified the car so he could use a button rather than a pedal. They built a safety cage with a harness, so he could stand up, and they added a kill switch for the parents, just in case it ran away with him. Bear River Electronics donated electronic equipment for the project. 

Emma Patten is a junior who is involved in numerous school activities including drama, volleyball, tennis, and robotics. She initially hesitated about joining robotics because of her other time commitments. When her friends convinced her she could have a flexible schedule, she joined and has become the rules leader. Rules are constantly being modified by the FIRST Robotics organization. These rule changes need to be tracked and communicated to all of the team members. This is a perfect job for Patten, because she can do most of it on her own time. When she is able to meet with the team, she is the flexible team member who fills in wherever there is a need. 

"Emma is versatile, wherever there is a need, she jumps in, learns, does her best, and excels," Missy said.

"I have learned a lot of things through FIRST Robotics that I will carry with me. It is okay to not know right at the beginning. It's okay to learn as you go, when you start something new. There is a nice, open atmosphere. It is an amazing program, and I'm lucky to be a part of it," Patten said. 

The full winning team poses with their trophy.

Kronberg joins NLEA as director of business growth

Northern Lakes Economic Alliance has added Dave Kronberg to their NLEA team as the organization’s new director of business growth, leading their work helping businesses succeed and grow across their four-county region. 

Kronberg is a native of Northern Michigan, having grown up in Petoskey and lived with his family in Marquette and Cheboygan. Dave has made his career working with large and small businesses throughout the region as a consultant, employee, and founder and understands the challenges faced by rural businesses. 

Prior to joining the NLEA, he most recently served as the Regional Ecosystem Director with 20Fathoms, an incubator for entrepreneurs, intrapreneurs, tech professionals, and other innovators. Dave brings extensive executive experience as an economic developer, designer, high-tech entrepreneur, and community leader. 

Chamber to host Business Expo/Taste on April 15

The Boyne Area Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce the return of the Boyne Business Expo and Taste of Boyne from 4-7 p.m. Tuesday, April 15, at Boyne Mountain Resort. 

This premier business event offers a unique opportunity for local businesses, entrepreneurs, and community members to connect, network, and showcase their products and services.

The Boyne Business Expo is one of the largest business networking events in Northern Michigan, attracting dozens of exhibitors and hundreds of attendees each year. Businesses across industries are invited to reserve exhibitor space and engage directly with potential customers, partners, and fellow professionals. Taste of Boyne restaurants are also invited to participate and provide food samples to attendees.

"The Business Expo is an incredible opportunity for businesses to showcase what they have to offer while also strengthening connections within our local economy," said Tricia Wilcox, executive director of the chamber. “We encourage businesses of all sizes to participate and take advantage of this premier networking event.”

Admission is $10 for attendees. Booths are $200 for non-profit members, $300 for regular members, $400 for a booth and sponsorship, and free for Taste of Boyne participants.

Businesses interested in participating can register here. For more information, contact Wilcox at 231-582-6222.

Leadership Charlevoix County plans 4 events to help fund mental health awareness effort

The Leadership Charlevoix County Class of 2025 has teamed up with Kiersten’s Ride to launch a powerful outreach campaign focused on suicide prevention and mental health awareness—and they need your help to make it happen.

At the heart of this campaign are resource stickers that will be placed throughout Charlevoix County, each carrying a simple, true, powerful message reminding everyone that there is Hope. Every decal features a QR code linking directly to vital mental health resources through Kiersten’s Ride, ensuring that help is always within reach. The Leadership class goal is to raise $13,000 by May. They are also raising funds for a traveling enclosed trailer for Kiersten’s Ride.

Upcoming fundraiser events:

• Brewing Hope at Bier’s Inwood Brewery, 17959 Ferry Rd, Charlevoix. March 27, from 5-9pm. $1 per pint of beer sold will be donated to Kiersten’s Ride.
• Tap Into Hope at Stiggs Brewery, 112 S Park St. Boyne City. April 2, from 5-9pm. $5/per ticket - enter to win a Brew School Experience ($350 value).
• Coffee & Hope, Iron Goat Coffee (East Jordan & Walloon locations). April 8. 25% of all proceeds for the day at both locations will be donated to Kiersten's Ride.
• Raise Your Voice for Hope, at Muskrat, 121 Water St. Boyne City. April 16, from 8-10pm. Karaoke Night, $2/drink will be donated to Kiersten's Ride.

> How to Donate (please mention ‘LCC’ on all donations). Mail a check to Kiersten’s Ride, 04316 Cosier Rd, East Jordan, MI, 49727. To donate via Venmo, use the QR code on this flyer.

North Central to host free Job Fair on April 9

North Central Michigan College will host a Job Fair on Wednesday, April 9, from 2-4 p.m. in the Athletic Center gymnasium on the Petoskey campus. The Job Fair is open to the public, and attendance is free.  

Open to employers and job seekers, the event will provide opportunities to network, recruit and interview candidates for career-track and entry-level positions, as well as internships and seasonal employment. The event is free and open to the public.

Employers interested in having a booth at the event can register for $50 on the event web page. A list of more than 40 participating employers is also included on the event page.

“Attendees should bring their resume and come prepared to interview,” said Wendy Kresnak, North Central’s career development specialist. For more information about the Job Fair, contact Kresnak at wkresnak@ncmich.edu or 231-439-6265.

Citizen looks for freelance writers and summer intern

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

> Freelance writer responsibilities.

> Freelance writers application form

We have also contacted several universities to help us find a summer journalism intern, which is a half-time paid position. Details.

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Boyne Area News Briefs

FOOD AT THE MUSKRAT - Muskrat Distilling will start providing food service beginning Monday, March 31. Hours will be Monday-Thursday from 4-8 p.m. and Friday from 4-9 p.m. The menu was created by Katie Jo Willis, inspired by her travels around the world. Katie Jo will be preparing the food. Here is their menu.

COFFEE WITH PAT - Superintendent Pat Little will be hosting his monthly Coffee Talk on Wednesday, April 2. 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 or touch base on the new bond proposal or school-related topics.

PEOPLE’S MARCH - Boyne City resident Penny Hardy is organizing a People’s Resistance March at 12 noon Saturday, April 5. “We will gather at noon at Veterans Memorial Park in front of Boyne City City Hall and march through the business district,” Hardy said. “Posters and signs are welcome. Please no vulgarity!”

EUCHRE TOURNAMENT - Boyne City PirateFest is hosting a euchre tournament on Saturday, April 12, at BC Lanes in Boyne City. Pre-register now for $15 to win up to $250. This is a fundraising event for Boyne City PirateFest 2025. Walk-ins will be charge an additional $5. Participants are asked to bring quarters to pay in for 50-cent euchres. Here are the prizes: 1st place - $250 sponsored by Mitch's Stump Grinding LLC, 2nd place - $150 sponsored by Expert Finishes LLC, 3rd place - $100 sponsored by Expert Finishes LLC.

CANCER CRUSADERS DANCE - The Northern Michigan Cancer Crusaders will be hosting “Dancing Through the Decades” from 6 to 11 p.m. Saturday, April 12, at the Boyne City Eagles Hall. Come dressed for your favorite decade, 50s through the 80s, for a chance to win a prize. Admission is a $6 donation. Food, a cash bar and a silent and ticket auction will be available. Music will be provided by Northern Nites and Tim’s DJ Service. For more information call Kathy Leist, 231-582-7587. 

BOYNE APPETIT Restaurant Week in Downtown Boyne City is set for Monday, April 14 through Sunday, April 20. Restaurant specials will be published soon by Boyne City Main Street, which is organizing the event.

FISH FRY - Boyne City Eagles will be having a fish fry on Good Friday, April 18. The club is open to the public, you do not have to be a member to enjoy the dinner and beverages.

APPLE TREE PRUNING - Join Nate Dionne for an informational, hands-on seminar about apple tree pruning from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturday, April 4, at the Elizabeth B. Hoffmann Nature Preserve, south of Charlevoix. The event is sponsored by the Little Traverse Conservancy. Through various techniques, trees can be greatly revitalized in a manner that also supports the ecosystem and landscape around them. Participants will then have the chance to put these principles and objectives to use on the trees found on the LTC preserve. Participants are invited to bring their own loppers/pole saws. Limited quantities of tools, including pruners and pole saws, will be available for use during the hands-on portion of the workshop. Attendance is limited. To register, call 231.347.0991 or online at www.landtrust.org.

PAINT THE TOWN RED - Tickets are on sale for the Boyne City Booster Foundation’s major annual event, Paint the Town Red, held at Boyne Mountain Resort on Saturday, April 26. Tickets are $85 per person, available at the Mark Patrick State Farm office, 219 S Lake St., Phone (231) 582-6829. Those who buy a group of 10 tickets may have a reserved table. 



City of Boyne City Municipal News

City Commission petition deadline is April 22

If you’ve ever thought you’d like to run for the Boyne City Commission, now’s your chance to throw your hat in the ring for a four-year term. City Clerk-Treasurer Jessica Puroll has issued a notice with all the details about how to become a candidate for the non-partisan election. The main things a prospective candidate has to do are file an Affidavit of Identity and get at least 20 signatures of city residents who are registered voters on a nominating petition and turn it in to City Hall by 4 p.m. Tuesday, April 22. Learn more about the candidate nomination process here. If you have further questions, you may contact Puroll at 231-582-0334 or jpuroll@boynecity.gov.

There are three commission seats up for election this year, and incumbent commissioner and Mayor Pro Tem George Lasater has told the Boyne Citizen that he will not be seeking reelection. Mayor Tim Nemecek and Commissioner Marty Moody have not said whether they will run for reelection.

The Boyne Citizen encourages anyone who is planning to run for office to let us know by emailing Editor Jim Baumann, jim@boynecitizen.com.

RECREATION MASTER PLAN - Provide your input to help shape the city's Recreation Master Plan. Take a minute to weigh in by taking this survey prior to April 30.

DRAFT MASTER PLAN - Available for a 63-day comment period through Friday, April 11. The opportunity to view the plan and comment on it are available on the home page of the City's website and through this link.

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

> City Commission's next regular meeting is at 12 p.m. Tuesday, April 8. Agenda page.

> The City Commission has scheduled the third budget session for Friday, March 28, at 8:30 a.m. Agenda page.

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

• Compensation Commission - 2 seats. Applications due 3/31.
• Airport Board – 3 seats open
• Zoning Board of Appeals – 3 seats open

Obituaries

Eric Scott Rolls

June 26, 1972 ~ March 24, 2025 (age 52)

Hazel Amelia (Leist) Harmeling

November 2, 1937 ~ March 18, 2025 (age 87)

Sally Kaye (Moore) Scott

March 9, 1936 ~ March 13, 2022 (age 86)

Nancy L. Sewell

April 18, 1933 — March 20, 2025 (age 91)

THROUGH THE HISTORIAN'S LENS

History columnist Patrick McCleary is on Spring Break this week.

Thank you to the generous donors who are supporting local journalism and the Boyne Citizen!

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Wild Bill & The Bruisers perform at Freshwater Gallery and Concert Venue on Saturday, April 12. Call (231) 582-2588 for tickets.

MUSIC, ARTS, AND ENTERTAINMENT

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

AMERICAN LEGION Post 228, 302 S Lake St., Boyne City, (231) 459-4188.

Bingo every Tuesday, open to the public, refreshments provided. Doors open at 3 p.m., play starts at 5, ending at 8 p.m.

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

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

Mondays - Sean Bielby

Tuesdays - Lara Fullford

Wednesdays - Pete Kehoe

Thursdays - Trivia & music by Holly Keller

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

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

Saturday, March 29 - Sandy & The Bandits, 8-11 p.m.

Saturday, April 12 - PirateFest Euchre Tournament, 5:30 p.m. Register online.

No music scheduled in April.

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

> Upcoming classes:

- Make a rabbit for Easter - March 31 & April 7

- Gelli Painting & Collage - April 9

> Spring Art Exhibit, "Unfolding," April 11 - May 26. Opening night Friday, April 11, 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.

> Spring Art Camp for adults - April 28 - 30.

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

> Open Saturdays 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

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

> MY CLUE TRIVIA - Mondays at 7 p.m.

> SINGO BINGO - Wednesdays at 7 p.m.

> LIVE MUSIC at 7 p.m.

Thursdays - Adam and the Cabana Boys

Fridays & Saturdays - Patrick Ryan

BOYNE MOUNTAIN. 1 Boyne Mountain Rd., Boyne Falls, (855) 688-7024.

> Weekly schedule of events and entertainment at all Boyne Mountain venues.

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

> LIVE MUSIC - Saturdays 2-6 p.m. Free snowshoes for customers to use.

Saturday, March 29 - Chris Calleja

Saturday, April 5 - Two Track Mind

Saturday, April 12 - Elisabeth Criste

Saturday, April 19 - Michelle Chenard

Saturday, April 26 - Chris Calleja

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

> LIVE MUSIC

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

Friday, March 28 - Brett Mitchell, 7-10 p.m.

Saturday, March 29 - Peter Jensen, 7-10 p.m.

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

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

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

> Saturday, April 12, 8 p.m. - Wild Bill & The Bruisers with special guests Eliza Thorne and Mallory Eagle. Wild Bill & The Bruisers is a rambunctious, three-piece band from Nashville known for their high-octane, honky-tonk style, reviving country classics and more. The affable trio describe themselves as the “rowdiest band you’ve ever seen!” One of a plethora of hard working, full-time bands plying their trade on Lower Broadway, Wild Bill and The Bruisers stand out from the crowd not only due to their widespread popularity with their local fan base, but also with their high-energy performances. With a warm and uninhibited voice, Eliza Thorn is a bright-eyed and emergent force, cultivating a characteristic sound. Years of travel and busking have aided in honing a penchant for honest storytelling. Thorn tips a proverbial hat to her idols, spanning from Bob Wills to Howlin Wolf. Mallory Eagle From Oklahoma City is a rising presence in country and Americana music. Inspired by honky-tonk, country rock, and bluegrass, her music pays homage to traditions with a modern flair. 

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

> Thursday, March 27 - Trailblazing Women of Country, A Tribute to Patsy, Loretta, and Dolly, 7 p.m. Tickets.

> Sunday, April 13 - Keith Gave & Detroit's Hockey Evolution, an exclusive screening of "The Russian Five," followed by a conversation with Keith Gave, the journalist who helped bring the legendary Russian Five to Detroit. 1 p.m. Tickets.

SUMMER/FALL CONCERT SERIES:

May 25 - The Doo Wop Project

June 13 - Deana Carter

June 21 - Get Loud Entertainment Presents: Infinity

June 27 - The Broadway Tenors

June 29 - Comedian Dustin Nickerson

July 5 - Get Loud Entertainment Presents: Lonestar

July 12 - 2025 Gala, Disco Paradise featuring KC and The Sunshine Band

July 20 - An Evening with Lyle Lovett and his Large Band

July 30 + 31 - Bay View Music Festival Presents: Bizet’s Carmen

Aug 3 - Straight No Chaser Summer: The 90s Part 2

Aug 9 - The Landsharks Band

Aug 15 - Ashes & Arrows

Aug 29-31 - Jersey Boys

Sep 14 - Grand Rapids Ballet Ballet Masterworks 

Oct 4 - Canadian Brass 

Oct 5 - Manhattan Short Film Festival 

Oct 16 & 17 - Cirque Mechanics Tilt! 

Nov 1 - Cantus

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

> TRIVIA NIGHT - Wednesdays at 7 p.m.

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

Food service starts March 31. Hours will be Monday-Thursday 4-8 and Friday 4-9. Here is the Muskrat Munchies Menu, created by Katie Willis.

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

> LIVE MUSIC 8 to 11 p.m.

Friday, March 28 - Buddha Sweet

Friday, April 4 - Lou Thumser

Friday, April 11 - SAXU4IA

Saturday, April 19 - Anniversary Party with Jelly Roll Blues Band

Friday, April 25 - Two Track Mind

PENINSULA PARK EVENT CENTER, 5 W. Main Street, Boyne City, (231) 881-5192, peninsulaparkevents@gmail.com. The Event Center space is available to rent for public and private events including parties, fundraisers, entertainment, classes and meetings.

> Saturday, April 12th from 4-8pm - Wellness Workshop. Step into a day of self-care, reflection, and rejuvenation the ultimate wellness event designed to help you refresh your mind, body and spirit with keynote speaker Erin Resteiner. Register here.

PROVISIONS LOUNGE. 123 Water St., Boyne City, (231) 582-2151.

LIVE MUSIC, 6-8 p.m. Tuesdays and Saturdays

RED MESA GRILL.117 Water St, Boyne City, (231) 582-0049.

LIVE MUSIC 6-9 p.m. on Tuesdays.

Tuesday, April 1 - Sean Bielby

Tuesday, April 8 - Evan Archambo

Tuesday, April 15 - Erik Jakeway

Tuesday, April 22 - Lou Thumser

Tuesday, April 29 - Peter Allen Jensen

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

> Stiggs is closed from March 26-30, "taking a week off to catch up, rest and gear up for the pending summer"

> April 2 and the first Wednesday of the month - Open Mic Nights hosted by Nelson Olstrom, 6-9 p.m.

> April 12 and the second Saturday of the month - Karaoke with DJ T-Bone Thompson from 8-11 p.m.

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

> Roller skating party 2-6 p.m. Saturday, April 19. $8 admission, $2 rentals.

The Boyne Citizen

Email: jim@boynecitizen.com

Phone: 231-675-8793

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