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March 20, 2025 | Issue #27 | Past issues

Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

Guess who showed up in a funny hat to wish Pat O’Brien a happy birthday at Business After Hours on St. Patrick’s Day? None other than long-time but now former city manager, Mike Cain. He was just one of the folks in big crowd of well-wishers at the annual Boyne Chamber networking event. Also on hand was Chamber Executive Director Tricia Wilcox, fresh off of maternity leave and back on the job. 

Inside this issue

• Next steps: Hiring interim city manager
• Pride of Baltimore II tall ship returning in July
• Household hazardous waste events are expensive
• Heritage Center plans trip to Ireland in 2026
• Police answer fake call for active shooter 
• Foundation focuses on student success
• Schools plan kindergarten round-ups
• Chamber to host Business Expo/Taste event
• We’re inviting township news coverage
• News briefs, Municipal News, Obituaries
• Patrick McCleary history: Millie Chase, shoe store owner
• Thanks to the donors who keep the news coming!
• Music and entertainment listings

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Mayor Tim Nemecek will be the city's "point person" until an interim manager is selected.

Critics express disappointment, but commission starts interim city manager hiring process

By Jim Baumann, jim@boynecitizen.com 

The Boyne City Commission heard some complaints about how they fired 22-year City Manager Mike Cain, but they started the process of finding an interim city manager in a special meeting Friday, just three days after the abrupt termination. 

The commission meeting began with public comment, and seven people spoke, all expressing criticism or disappointment with the firing of the city manager - especially with the way that it was done.

Michelle Cortright said she “was personally embarrassed for our community in how the termination of the city manager was handled. It was a brutal discussion, aired in public. It was agonizing to watch, and I cannot imagine what it was like for Mike Cain to experience that in a public meeting. In my view, this should have been handled in private with a succession plan already in place.”

Dilworth Hotel owner Bob Grove commented: “I would have never purchased the hotel if it wasn’t for Mike Cain. It was a great example of a private/government partnership. And the same thing for the Open Space - that would never have happened either, if it wasn’t for Mike Cain.”  

Grove also credited Cain with making the city business park a success with numerous major employers providing jobs for the community. “I’m ashamed of what happened to him. It was a half baked idea. You had no plan.”

Parks and Recreation Commission member Greg Vadnais said he was shocked to learn about the termination. “As a citizen, I’m deeply concerned about the potential unintended consequences of this decision,” he said. “If there was malfeasance that justified such a sudden change, the public should be made aware of it. Otherwise, removing the city manager without transparent reasoning risks damaging the public trust.”

“I find it difficult to believe that the Michael Cain that I know would have done something so egregious as to warrant this abrupt action,” Vadnais said. 

Boyne District Library Director Monica Peck said, “I’m just here to express my disappointment in the way it was done. It could have been handled in a much more respectful and dignified way.

It was apparent that the city would be drawing up a list of prospects primarily from a list of retired city managers on an Interim Manager Listing web page maintained by the Michigan Municipal Executives, as that page was displayed on screen during the meeting.

Mayor Tim Nemecek asked his fellow commissioners to review the resumes listed on that website, as well as possible additional candidates that may surface, and send him their top choices. They plan to review those choices at their next regular meeting at 12 noon Tuesday, March 25, and then narrow the choices to be interviewed by the full commission.

The Commission asked City Clerk/Treasurer Jessica Puroll to come up with a job description for the city manager position, and that has already been posted on the city website. 

Before the discussion on finding an interim manager, the commission agreed that Puroll would be the staff “point person” and that Nemecek as mayor would be the natural commission point person to handle communications until the interim person is hired. 

“We do not want five city commissioners coming in here and giving directions and engaging with city employees,” Nemecek explained.

> Boyne Citizen Editor Jim Baumann was interviewed last week by Nick Rhudy of WMKT/WMBN talk radio about the firing of City Manager Mike Cain and next steps being taken by the City Commission. Here is the 14-minute interview. 

> City Commission's next regular meeting is at 12 p.m. Tuesday, March 25. The agenda will be posted here.

> The City Commission has rescheduled its third budget session from March 19 to Friday, March 28, at 8:30 a.m. Agenda page.

CORRECTION

In last week’s Boyne Citizen story on the termination of City Manager Mike Cain, we stated that City Attorney Matt Cross recommended having a sheriff’s deputy available to walk Cain out of City Hall with any personal belongings. Mayor Tim Nemecek asked us to clarify this, saying “Matt did not specifically recommend that I have an officer escort Mike out. It was simply mentioned to me as the "standard" practice. It was my decision to follow the standard practice that was communicated to me. Ultimately, I chose to have a deputy on standby rather than put Mike through the embarrassment of being escorted out. Additionally, I did not want to place a City Police officer in that position, so I opted to ask a deputy instead.”

Pride of Baltimore II tall ship returning in July

The Pride of Baltimore II tall ship will be returning to Boyne City the evening of Friday, July 25, departing Wednesday morning, July 30. The ship will be docked at the One Water Street Pier, hosting a number of free deck tours. You can also sign up for one of  several two-hour sails on Lake Charlevoix for an admission fee, with details to be announced later.

The ship has visited Boyne City several times in the past, thanks to a connection with local Realtor Wally Kidd, a former Baltimore resident whose father was involved in the establishment of the nonprofit organization that built and sailed the original Pride ship in the 1970s. Kidd’s family typically hosts the crew for some R&R when they come to Boyne City, most recently in 2019, and they will do so again this year.

Kidd expressed his thanks to the One Water Street Homeowners Association for providing unanimous approval to use their dock for the tall ship’s visit. 

This reproduction of this Baltimore schooner represents the sleek, daring “privateers” that were the lifeblood of the fledgling American nation during the War of 1812. Ships like Pride II were commissioned by the U.S. government to attack and capture British merchant ships during the war. They were extremely successful. Today, Pride II is berthed at Baltimore’s Inner Harbor when she is not sailing the world as Maryland’s Goodwill Ambassador. Pride of Baltimore II website.

Commissioners adjust latex paint fee to help control household hazardous waste budget

By Carole Shane, cjshane@charter.net

Editor’s note - This is our first of what will be continuing coverage of the Charlevoix County Board of Commissioners' meetings from Boyne area resident Carole Shane, who has been attending the meetings as an observer through a project sponsored by the League of Women Voters of Northern Lower Michigan.

The county’s popular Household Hazardous Waste (HHHW) drop-off events are coming up in June, and the Charlevoix County Board of Commissioners learned at their March 12 meeting that the project is estimated to be over budget. Commissioners were asked for direction regarding modifications to the project that would allow it to continue. 

Commissioners agreed to continue holding two, two-day events, one in June near Charlevoix and one in September in Boyne City. Latex paint will be accepted at the county’s actual cost of disposal, which is $13 per can, an increase from $1 per can. Latex paint is no longer considered a hazardous material and can be recycled by painting cardboard with the unwanted paint, then disposing of the cardboard and the empty paint can at the recycling center. Publicity about the event will emphasize this change, and officials plan to distribute a flyer with instructions as to how to dispose of the paint by painting the cardboard, thus avoiding paying the $13 fee.

Officials reported that there has been a 5% increase in participation in the HHHW events each year, and 75-80 tons of material are collected at each HHHW event.

In other business, County Administrator Kevin Shepard outlined projects that have been completed using the county’s park millage funds. Sixteen out of 19 municipalities within the county have applied for and made use of funds from the millage which was passed in 2022. This year's newly approved grants will be considered in the board’s next meeting at 6 p.n. Wednesday, March 26, in the Board of Commissioners Room at the Charlevoix County Shirley Roloff Center, 13513 Division Street, Charlevoix.

The Commission discussed the future of a house on Division Street in Charlevoix that is owned by the County. The house is currently being used by the Sheriff’s Department to conduct mandatory training exercises. The site is one of only two such facilities in the state that law enforcement agencies can use for such training. Commissioner Conway will form a committee to study the possibility of Charlevoix County renting their facility to other agencies in the state for their training needs.

After routine approval of items on the consent agenda, Commissioners heard from Payton Heins, who presented a summary of the Northern Lakes Economic Alliance 2024 Annual Report. Amy Wieland from the Commission on Aging reported on the Beaver Island Meal Agreement for seniors on the island.

The commission approved resolutions an Addendum to the Union Agreement, verbiage regarding parks fees, Whiting Park Campground rules and regulations, and upgrades to carpeting in selected county rooms. 

During the public comment segment, a Boyne Falls resident presented Commissioners with a pamphlet entitled “Determining the Fate of the Boyne Falls Dam.” The pamphlet outlines the history of the Boyne Falls Dam and the Village of Boyne Falls’ hope to conduct a feasibility study that would explore, among other things, the removal of the Boyne Falls Dam. Additional information about this project is available at the Village of Boyne Falls website or from the Conservation Resource Alliance at 231-946-6817.

Elmira resident Randall Osgood  informed commissioners about a plan to construct a bike trail connecting Boyne Falls to Gaylord. The resident was not asking for funding from Charlevoix County, as other means of financing the project are being sought, but he did ask the Commission for a letter of support for the project as 3-4 miles of the proposed trail would run through Charlevoix County. Commission Chair Scott Hankins expressed concern that maintenance of any bike trail in the county becomes the responsibility of the county.

Heritage Center plans trip to Ireland in 2026; City unveils Twin Boyne Valleys website

The Boyne Heritage Center picked St. Patrick’s Day to announce their inaugural "Boyne Heritage Travel" community trip, which will be held Sept. 13-21, 2026. 

The trip will be a circle tour starting and ending in Dublin, with time spent in Trim in the Irish Boyne Valley. Hay said anyone interested in this trip should “stay tuned for community planning meetings,” to be announced soon. The meeting will include Richard and Robin Wright presenting photos from their trip to Trim. 

“For this momentous first trip, where else would we possibly go but to our Irish Twin, the Boyne Valley in Ireland,” said Cameron Hay, executive director of the Heritage Center. 

The City of Boyne City is involved too. Their Facebook page reported this week, “In the spirit of St. Patrick's Day week, we're happy to announce the launch of our Twin Boyne Valleys landing page that was funded and designed in partnership between the City of Boyne City and our colleagues in the Irish Boyne Valley.” Visit www.twinboynevalleys.com to learn more.

The site is “designed to be an informational hub for the public in and around both the Irish and Michigan Boyne Valleys to learn about, and stay up-to-date on our Twinning relationship.”

A team of volunteers from both Boyne Valleys is “actively collaborating to design travel plans, curated tours, and must-visit site recommendations for those wishing to travel to either destination. The project is still in progress, so stay tuned for updates.”

> Fresh from Ireland, here is a special St. Patrick's Day greeting from Gerry Meade, representing our twin, the Boyne Valley in Ireland. 

City police answer fake call for active shooter

Boyne City Police officers were dispatched to a shots fired call in the 100-block of Water Street on Friday afternoon, March 14. The investigation quickly revealed there was no threat or active shooter. 

A statement from the Police Department said, “It is believed this was a swatting incident where an unknown caller reports fake incidents in view of publicly available webcams and then watches the local emergency response. As part of our response, the operator of the camera turned it off. We are appreciative of their cooperation. There is no threat to the community and we would like to remind everyone that the false report of a crime is a violation of Michigan law.”

A foundation grant supported “Where Everybody Belongs,” a mentoring and transition program for 8th grade mentors and 5th graders.

C3F focuses on student success with school grants

The Charlevoix County Community Foundation (C3F) and their donors have partnered with school personnel to offer Student Success Grants. These grants are available to schools across Charlevoix County including Beaver Island, Boyne City, Boyne Falls, Charlevoix, and East Jordan. Recent grants had a huge impact on each school’s ability to provide engaging opportunities and encourage students to become successful community citizens.

In Boyne City, a recent grant supported “Where Everybody Belongs,” a mentoring and transition program that offers training, games, and bonding events between 8th grade mentors and 5th graders. This helps make the transition from elementary to middle school easier for students and can even eliminate bullying by bringing students together. This program also builds dynamic youth leaders. One former 8th grade mentor has now become a member of the C3F Youth Advisory Committee representing Boyne City. 

For more information about the Charlevoix County Community Foundation, or to find out how to support a Student Success Fund for Beaver Island, Boyne Falls, Boyne City, Charlevoix, or East Jordan, contact the Foundation office at (231) 536-2440 or visit the www.c3f.org.

> Full press release with details on grants for Boyne City, East Jordan, and Charlevoix Schools.

Members of the Charlevoix Public Schools Class of 2038 are preparing to enter kindergarten in fall 2025.

Kindergarten round-ups scheduled for local schools

It’s the time of year when local elementary schools roll out the welcome mat for incoming kindergartners and their families, through open houses, school tours and registration activities. Some districts require an appointment and others do not.

Parents are asked to bring proof of residency and your child’s birth certificate, immunization records and custody documentation, if applicable. If you have questions about enrolling in kindergarten or the events detailed here, contact the specific district.

Michigan law states that for the 2025-26 school year, a child who resides in a public school district providing kindergarten may be enrolled if the child is at least 5 years of age on or before Sept. 1, 2025. For children who will be 5 by Dec. 1, 2025, parents may enroll their child through written notification to the school district.

BOYNE CITY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Parents/guardians will need to register for a kindergarten round-up session of their choice by filling out a kindergarten pre-registration form that is available on the BCPS website, www.boyne.k12.mi.us.

The following registration sessions will be held:

> Wednesday, May 7: 4:30-5:30 p.m. and 6-7 p.m.

> Thursday, May 8: 1-2 p.m.

> Friday, May 9: 9:30-10:30 a.m.

If you have any questions, call (231) 439-8300. 

BOYNE FALLS PUBLIC SCHOOL

Registration required. Parent meeting, orientation and tours.

Wednesday, April 23: 5:30 p.m.

Call (231) 549-2211 to register. On the web: www.boynefalls.org. 

CONCORD ACADEMY BOYNE

Appointment required. Wednesday, April 23: 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (231) 582-0194. On the web: www.concordboyne.com. 

> Here is the complete list of kindergarten registration open houses, parent meetings and school tours planned throughout the Charlevoix-Emmet Intermediate School District’s 11 public schools, charter academies, and private schools.

BCHS names All-Academic Team

Congratulations to the 2025 Northern Shores Conference All-Academic Team from Boyne City High School. Each year, 12 students are selected from each of the eight member schools of the conference based on a combination of GPA and SAT scores.

These 12 individuals were honored this week at the annual ceremony, which was hosted by Harbor Springs High School: Ethan McQueen, Thomas Dobbelaer, Ryan Chapp, William Minnaar, Braydin Noble, Ellie Clausen, Morgan Erickson, Sarah Eaton, Ruby Richards, Lauren LaBute, Katie Hunt, and Katelyn Dittmar.

Band honors for BCHS students

Congratulations to Benjamin Ivie, Will Minnaar, Emma Patten, and Ruby Richards, who performed in the MSBOA State Solo and Ensemble Festival on Saturday. All four performed together in a quartet that played beautifully, earning a First Division rating. Benjamin, Will, and Ruby also performed individually in Solo Proficiency Examinations with each one earning a top First Division rating as well.

Chamber to host Business Expo/Taste event at Boyne Mountain 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.

Conservation District plans tree sale, hiring for 4 positions

The order deadline for the Charlevoix Conservation District Annual Spring Tree Sale is April 1. Order pickup day is Saturday, April 26, from 9am-1pm. Here is the Tree Sale Catalog and the Order Form.

The Conservation District is also accepting applications for two internship opportunities this summer, an outreach educator and a field technician assistant. More information can be found under About Us/Employment on the district’s new website.

Thanks to a new partnership with Great Start Collaborative, the district now has an entire box full of books, activities, games and exploration tools all about insects. Other nature to-go loan items are also available through the district; call 231-582-6193 to schedule.

> “Spring Notes” flyer on district highlights. 

Evangeline Township Board meeting summary

The Evangeline Township Board held its regular board meeting and 2025 budget public hearing on March 11. Here is a summary provided by the township:

• FYE 2026 Budget Public Hearing was held.
• General Appropriations Act adopted.
• Annual Park and Pack Clean up will be held at the Town Hall Saturday, June 7, 7:30 a.m. – noon. Postcards to residents, which are needed for entry, will be mailed May 1.
• Summer Township Newsletter received and will be included with summer property tax bills.
• FYE 2026 Fee Schedule adopted.
• Adopted non-binding Memorandum of Understanding with the Walloon Lake Association and Conservancy. 
• The next Township Board meeting will be at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 8.

Township website.

Editor’s note: The Boyne Citizen has contacted other Boyne area townships and asked them to provide similar summaries of their board meetings and other news. Contact Editor Jim Baumann with questions or news items - jim@boynecitizen.com or 231-675-8793.

Leadership Charlevoix County hosts 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 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.

North Central’s Career Services department offers a variety of services to jobseekers and employers, including helpful job search tips and tools, personalized access to job postings, and resume and cover letter guidance. The Career Services office is located inside the college’s Borra Learning Center.

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

SCHOOL CALENDARS for Boyne City Public Schools have been finalized for the next two school years. Highlights of the 2025-26 school year include: 

• First day of school - Sept. 2, 2025
• Thanksgiving Break - Nov. 27 and 28, 2025
• Winter Break - Dec. 22 - Jan. 2, 2026
• Spring Break - March 27 - April 6, 2026
• Last day of school - June 11, 2026

To see the complete calendars for 2024-25, 2025-2026, and 2026-2027, click here.

PEOPLE FUND - The Great Lakes Energy People Fund is accepting letters of interest and grant applications from non-profit organizations throughout its service area for the spring grant cycle. Letters of interest are due by April 1. If the letter of interest is approved, the applicant can then submit a grant application by April 15. All letters and applications are accepted through their online grant application portal.

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.

BLISSFEST ANNOUNCES LINEUP - From Interlochen Public Radio: The lineup for one of northern Michigan’s most cherished music festivals is out. The 43rd annual Blissfest will feature Trevor Hall, Elephant Revival, Ozomatli, and Lindsay Lou, along with over three-dozen other acts. Taking place July 11-13 north of Harbor Springs, the three-day festival blends folk and roots music from around the world and talent from northern Michigan. Tickets are for sale on the Blissfest website. The festival also takes on volunteers, which requires an application and a $15 fee.

BOYNE AREA SENIOR CENTER is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays and serves daily lunches from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. For seniors ages 60+, the donation is $3, for ages 59 and under, $8, and for children 12 and under, $6. Here is the March lunch menu, and the March activity calendar.

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@bonecitizen.com.

COMPENSATION COMMISSION - The City of Boyne City is now accepting applications for two open positions on the Compensation Commission. The commission is made up of five members, each serving a five-year term. Members are tasked with making recommendations regarding the salaries of elected officials, including the Mayor and City Commissioners. The commission normally meets only once or twice a year. If you are interested in getting involved contact City Clerk Treasurer Jessica Puroll at 231-582-0334 or jpuroll@boynecity.gov or submit an application by March 31. Application forms are available online or at City Hall. 

FREE FLU SHOTS - Boyne City’s EMS Department is offering free flu shots to those in our regional service area. No insurance or other payment needed. Limited supply. First come, first served. Can’t get to us, we may be able to get to you! Contact EMS Director Brenda Willson via phone or text at 231.350.2589 for an appointment or more information. 

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, March 25. Agenda page.

> The City Commission has rescheduled the third budget session from March 19 to 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

Janet Rae (Munson) Gilmore

October 16, 1938 ~ March 12, 2025 (age 86)

Brandon Walter McNamara

March 30, 1985 ~ March 5, 2025 (age 39)

Millie Chase, Eagle Shoe Store owner. Photographs courtesy of Kim DePew/Chase Family Collection.

THROUGH THE HISTORIAN'S LENS

Celebrating Women’s History Month: Millie Chase, Eagle Shoe Store owner and city treasurer

By Patrick McCleary, Throughthehistorianslens@gmail.com

The Charlevoix County History Preservation Society

Cora Amilla “Millie” Russel was born on December 6, 1880, the daughter of Robert H. and Ella J. (Durfee) Russell. From a very young age, she preferred the name “Millie” over her given name of Cora. After high school she obtained a teaching certificate and assumed a teaching position in Gaylord. 

While there, she met Channing Earl Chase, who owned and operated a cigar store. Channing, the son of Irvin and Louise (Waterman) Chase had grown up in and around Gaylord, his father operating a feed store just outside of town. The two were married on October 9, 1902, in Gaylord. Like so many young women in her day, Millie’s teaching career abruptly ended upon marriage. She then took a position as a store clerk. 

In 1904, the young couple moved to Boyne City and became the parents of three daughters. Family history states that Millie used her entire savings to purchase the lakefront property that is now known as Sho Sho Nie Beach. She later sold it when start-up money was needed for Chase’s Cigar Store at 33 South Lake Street. Although it was not considered appropriate for Millie to work in the cigar shop, there was a Native American woman who rolled cigars on the premises. So, Millie turned to raising their daughters and tending their new home at 304 E. Main Street, formerly known as the “Stafford House” because it had taken in boarders.

Millie Chase with daughters Marion, Elaine and Eleanor, taken in 1916. Photograph courtesy of Kim DePew/Chase Family Collection.

As the story goes, Channing’s mother did not approve of the cigar store, especially the pool tables in the back. She repeatedly asked him to sell it and to go into a “more respectable line of work.” He took her advice and bought an existing shoe store in Boyne City called the Eagle Shoe Store, which was located at 102 South Lake Street. When Mr. Chase was diagnosed with throat cancer in 1921, Millie took over running the shoe store. After his death on September 10, 1923, she not only took over sole ownership and operation of the store but requested that she be allowed to finish her late husband’s term as City Treasurer! An unheard-of request for the times - but one that she was granted.

For the next 17 years Millie Chase owned and operated the Eagle Shoe Store and raised her three daughters as a single mother. By the age of 59 she was retired but remained very active in Presbyterian Church activities. By 1942, she had been diagnosed with a malignant tumor on her lungs and received care at the Sunshine Sanitarium in Grand Rapids. It was there that she died on January 5, 1945. 

Chase’s Cigar Store at 33 South Lake Street, Boyne City. Photograph courtesy of Kim DePew/Chase Family Collection.

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

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MUSIC, ARTS, AND ENTERTAINMENT

Please email your special events and music information to 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.

> LIVE MUSIC

Saturday, March 22 - R.P.M., 8-11ish p.m.

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

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 22 - Michelle Chenard

Saturday, March 29 - Chris Calleja

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

> LIVE MUSIC

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

Friday, March 21 - Pete Kehoe, 7-10 p.m.

Saturday, March 22 - Nelson Olstrom, 7-10 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, (231) 582-2588. Call to reserve tickets.

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.

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

> LIVE MUSIC 8 to 11 p.m.

Friday, March 21 - Pete Fetters

Friday, March 28 - Buddha Sweet

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.

> WINTER MOVIES - Free admission; refreshments available for purchase. No outside food or beverages. Check Facebook for schedule.

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, March 25 - Keith Scott

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

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

> 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: 231-459-4166

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