View as Webpage

April 16, 2026 | Issue #80 | Past issues

Ridge Road flooding

As of Wednesday afternoon, Charlevoix County has fared better than surrounding areas that have endured evacuation warnings, possible dam failures and serious road washouts and flooding. This photo provided by Jerry Looze shows a washout on Ridge Road in Eveline Township. Read our stories with more details on flooding in Charlevoix, Emmet and Cheboygan Counties.

Inside this issue:

• Two marijuana stores approved for Boyne Falls
• City Commission appoints Aaron Place to fill vacant seat
• Flooding problems not so bad in Charlevoix County 
• Evacuation lifted; water levels fluctuate at Cheboygan Dam
• Boyne City schools stay on track for June finish
• Two big fuzzy reasons to stop by the Police Department
• Trails Council awarded $8,000 grant for BC-Chx trail
• Repairs delay the opening of Ironton Ferry
• Boyne City gas prices drop to $4.09
• Groups to give away trees on Arbor Day, April 24
• Conservation District Tree Sale pick-up is April 25
• Two free public events planned for Writer's Retreat
• Charlevoix Hospital President Schroeder to retire
• Concord hosts Kindergarten Roundup and open house
• New Eta Nu project supports middle school students
• Evangeline Township Board meeting summary
• Patrick McCleary history: Kitty Kemp-Vought, milliner
• News briefs, Obituaries & Municipal News
• Thanks to the donors who keep the news coming!
• Music and entertainment listings

> Like this newsletter? Forward to a friend and help us grow. If they like it, they can subscribe here. We just hit 2,167 subscribers this week.

> The Boyne Citizen is committed to being a free resource for in-depth local news you can trust. Will you join more than 490 donating members who believe the Boyne area needs a high-quality news source? Donate here or send a check to Boyne Citizen, P.O. Box 83, Boyne City MI 49712.

Check out the new PatOBrien.com

Sponsored post

Boyne Falls resident Brandi Rincon spoke against the marijuana store licenses and presented a petition that would call for a vote on the issue in November.

Boyne Falls approves two pot stores but opponent presents petition for a vote

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

With a crowd of more than 20 people attending, the Boyne Falls Village Council approved two licenses for retail marijuana stores at its monthly meeting on Tuesday night. 

However, village resident Brandi Rincon, who opposes the ordinance allowing the stores, presented a petition to rescind the ordinance, putting the issue up for a vote in November. 

Roman Benson, representative for the B & B Corporation, doing business as Canna Klub, said now that the applications have been approved by the council, it will typically take 60-90 days for the business to open its doors. He said the Canna Klub hopes to open by July 4th at what is now the Premier Hobbies location, 2055 U.S. 131. This business recently announced that it will be closing on April 26. 

The other dispensary, The Woods, will be located in the former Great Lakes Seamless Gutters building at 2500 U.S. 131.

Before the meeting began, Village President Marilyn Cousineau spoke about the petition. “I have been in touch with our attorney, and with regards to the petition at hand, which is all well and good, the petition requires signatures of at least 5% of the votes cast for Governor in the last gubernatorial election.”

If enough signatures are verified, the ordinance will be on the ballot in the Nov. 3 election. Cousineau pointed out that only signatures of registered voters of the Village would be counted. “Township residents are not eligible to vote on Village issues,” she said.

“Our ordinance remains in effect until it goes to a vote of the people in November, and we should continue to process the license applications,” Cousineau said.

Rincon and others who spoke during public comments expressed concern that the Village is simply too small and residential for this kind of business. 

Several spoke passionately in opposition - a college student, an 86-year-old lifetime local, a civics teacher from Charlevoix. But the obvious gap for some people present at the meeting was that they were not residents of the village, so have no legal say in this decision.

Contacted after the meeting, Rincon was confident that most of the signatures on her petition are valid. She said only one of her 40 signatures appeared to be not valid when she checked the names with local officials. “I think I have more than enough signatures,” she said.  

The licenses were approved by a vote of 4-2 Tuesday. Voting in favor were Cousineau, Doug Weiss, Larry Organek and Raphael Zara. Voting against the licenses were Joann Bell and William Carson. Brandy Marvin was absent.

Council members who are in favor of the dispensary licenses noted that this was an issue that they ran on in the 2024 election. Since they made their positions clear and were elected, they feel that indicates the majority of citizens in the village are also in favor of the new ordinance, which was voted on and approved in October of 2025. 

The new licenses are expected to bring in $50,000 to $60,000 per year in fees and tax revenue, which would almost double the revenue of the village government. Each of the two applicants has paid a $5,000 application fee and will pay an annual license fee of $5,000.

> Ordinance #64, “Adult Use Marijuana Establishment Ordinance,” allows for two retail licenses for the sale of recreational marijuana. The ordinance can be found on the village website here.

Aaron Place answers interview questions at Monday's Boyne City Commission meeting.

Boyne City Commission appoints Aaron Place to fill vacant seat 

By Annie Doyle Grove, annie@boynecitizen.com 

Boyne City has a new city commissioner. After a divided discussion and criticism of how they handled the vacancy process, the mayor and three current commissioners voted Tuesday, April 14, to appoint Aaron Place to fill the seat left open by Sandy Pritchard’s resignation.

The decision came under the 30-day deadline laid out in the city charter, which required the commission to either fill the vacancy by appointment or allow it to go to a special election later this year.

In the end, the board chose appointment.

Place emerged only after an initially split field narrowed to two finalists. Two commissioners named former commissioner Dean Solomon as their top choice. Two others ranked Place first. But after further discussion, the board reached consensus and voted to appoint Place.

“I move to appoint Aaron Place to fill the vacancy on the Boyne City Commission... to serve until the Monday following the next regular city election in November 2027,” Commissioner Becky Houser said.

The motion was seconded and approved unanimously.

Place, who listed his occupation on his application as “retail service, graphic designer, dad,” is a familiar face in Boyne City civic circles. On his application, he said he had served 12 years on the Planning Commission, five years on the Zoning Board of Appeals and four years on the Main Street Design Committee. 

He also listed two years on the Michigan Butterfly Habitat board, two years on the Little Traverse Civic Theater board, service on the Airport Advisory Board and volunteer work with Boyne Falls Public Schools and Challenge Mountain.

In his written application, Place said he wanted to serve because he cares “deeply about the future of Boyne City” and wants to help build a community where his children “and many like them, can afford to live, work, and thrive.”

His appointment follows the resignation of Pritchard, who stepped down last month, saying in a two-page letter dated March 19 that she could no longer serve effectively because of what she described as a “fundamental disagreement” with the commission’s approach to governance, oversight and budgeting.

After accepting her resignation on March 24, the commission opened an application period and set an April 10 deadline. Six people applied. Candidates were invited to attend a special meeting Monday morning, April 13, where commissioners asked a standard set of questions. Those unable to attend were allowed to respond in writing.

At Tuesday’s regular meeting, City Clerk/Treasurer Jessica Puroll reviewed the legal framework before deliberations began. She said the commission had until April 23 to fill the vacancy because the resignation became effective when the board accepted it March 24. If the commission failed to act within 30 days, she said, the seat would go to a special election on Nov. 3.

That process, however, drew sharp criticism from some members of the public, including Pritchard herself and former mayor Tim Nemecek.

Speaking during public comment, Pritchard called the process “incoherent at best, and possibly a violation of Open Meetings Act.” She argued the commission had not publicly deliberated the vacancy-filling procedure in an orderly way after accepting her resignation and said the public was not given enough notice or clarity about how the process would unfold.

Another applicant, Cindy Banner, said she believed the process was flawed because the special interview meeting was not easy to find on the city’s website and because she learned of it too late to rearrange her work schedule and attend.

Nemecek also criticized the process, arguing the public had far less opportunity to weigh in than they did during the city manager hiring process. He questioned why the commission had not more fully explored whether voters could decide the seat through an election rather than appointment.

But commissioners defended their actions, saying they followed the charter and tried to gather as much public input as possible within the limited timeline.

During his interview Monday, Place said one of the city’s biggest needs is finding a “common thread” that allows residents and officials to work in the same direction rather than around competing agendas.

“There’s a lot of division right now,” he said.

He also stressed housing, collaboration and openness in decision-making.

“I want Boyne City to be a place that my kids can come back to,” Place said.

Place said he wants to see more opportunities for families to live and work in the city and said discussions and decisions should happen publicly rather than behind the scenes.

“Decisions shouldn’t be made outside of the meetings or before the meetings,” he said. “They should be here.”

With Tuesday’s vote, Place now joins the commission at a moment of transition, replacing one of its most outspoken members and stepping into a seat that became the center of a broader debate over transparency, process and who should decide local leadership.

For now, that decision has been made.

Boyne City History

Free PowerPoint presentations

We are giving the public an opportunity to view a vast collection of previously unavailable captioned photos. The first in the series is called Roads Less Traveled, a PowerPoint pictorial of Lumber Era shop owners and events from the 1930s and 1940s

Compiled by:

Roger White, W. H. White descendant

Ed May, Boyne area historian

Interested? Email your request to Ed May: edmay111@gmail.com

Sponsored post

The Boyne River is rushing along on April 12 as it passes the logger sculpture in Old City Park. Here are Julie Stratton's thoughts on that, as explained on the Lake Charlevoix Association Facebook page.

Charlevoix County has a few road closures but fares better than neighboring areas

As of Wednesday afternoon, Charlevoix County has fared better than surrounding areas that have endured evacuation warnings, possible dam failures and more serious road washouts and flooding. 

The only road problems reported by the Charlevoix County Sheriff’s Department were:

• Springbrook Road near Springvale Road is down to one lane. Please use caution in the area.
• Ridge Road In Eveline Township is closed between the addresses of 5050 & 5160, use Peninsula Road to access.
• Mountain Road in Eveline township is closed on the south side of the road.

Charlevoix County Emergency Management posted an update on Facebook at 4 p.m. Wednesday, stating that their office, the Charlevoix County Road Commission, and the Charlevoix County Sheriff's Office “actively continue to monitor flooding conditions affecting various areas throughout the county due to high water levels. Water levels are still high, mainly from the rapid rainfall, snowmelt, and frost that is still in the ground.”

The post continues: “Please avoid flooded areas, anticipate delays, and exercise extreme caution while traveling, particularly on low-lying roadways where water may be present.” 

The National Weather Service (NWS) of Gaylord Wednesday afternoon issued a "FLOOD WARNING" for 11 northern Michigan counties including Charlevoix, which is in effect at this time until 8 PM Sunday, April 19. “As the flooding occurred following the recent heavy rainfall, along with the snowmelt, roads and structures near lakes and rivers could continue to see high water levels and potential washouts. Ongoing flooding is being experienced across the area and will likely continue for the next several days. We hope that with warmer temperatures, the water will continue to absorb more into the ground.”

Additional rainfall was forecasted for Wednesday night into Thursday. Some areas could see at least an additional 1" of rainfall.

Preparedness/Reminders

• Have an emergency plan in place and review it.
• Seek an alternate shelter if affected by flooding/high-water levels.
• Enroll in the county's emergency alerting system (BeAlert/Smart911) to be sure you are in the know and receive any emergency notifications that get sent out.
• BeAlert Link: https://www.getrave.com/login/cceoem
• If you or someone you know needs assistance related to this current weather event, help is available by calling 2-1-1.
• Residents who have experienced property damage are encouraged to not only report it to their homeowners/flood insurance but also through this self-reporting link.

Emmet County

Emmet County Office of Emergency Management reports that flood conditions remain variable across the county but are showing signs of improvement. Some roadways continue to be impacted, and motorists are urged to use caution and avoid areas with standing water.

Pellston Regional Airport anticipates that the closure to commercial air traffic will remain in effect through the weekend as crews continue damage assessments and monitor field conditions.

Road Update: According to the latest update from the Emmet County Road Commission, the following closures and impacts remain in effect:

• M-119 between Division Road and Island View Road
• M-119 between Stutsmanville Road and Terpening Road
• E. Gruler Road between Howard Road and River Road
• Turbush Avenue between Shire Avenue and Old Tannery Creek
• Edds Road off Valley Road
• Channel Road over Minnehaha Creek (one lane traffic)

Motorists are urged to respect all posted closures and barricades, as conditions remain unstable and can change quickly.

> The Health Department of Northwest Michigan warns that after flooding, your well water may not be safe.

The Beitner Road Bridge near Traverse City washed out overnight Wednesday. (Courtesy of the Grand Traverse County Road Commission)

> Michigan flood watch: Evacuation lifted; water levels fluctuate at Cheboygan Dam - Details

> Ownership disputes, aging design add to Cheboygan dam’s failure threat - Details

No make-up days needed; Boyne City schools stay on track for June finish

By Annie Doyle Grove, annie@boynecitizen.com

While some Northern Michigan students are bracing for a longer school year, those in Boyne City Public Schools are in the clear.

Despite a winter marked by snow days across the region, Boyne City will not need to add extra days to its calendar. Superintendent Pat Little said the district has recorded eight canceled days — a number that keeps it within the state’s allowable limits.

Michigan schools automatically receive six forgiven snow days, with the Michigan Department of Education typically granting up to three additional waivers. That cushion gives Boyne City enough flexibility to avoid extending the year.

“That puts us under the threshold where we’d have to make it up,” Little said.

The last day of school remains June 11, unchanged from the original schedule.

That’s not the case everywhere. Nearby districts, including East Jordan Public Schools and Charlevoix Public Schools, have announced plans to extend their calendars after exceeding the state’s limits.

Little said Boyne City simply didn’t miss as many days as its neighbors this year — a difference that now means students won’t have to stay in class longer into June.

The district will still submit a formal request to the state for the additional forgiven days, a step Little said is expected to be approved.

Boyne City hasn’t always avoided calendar changes. During Little’s tenure, one school year saw as many as 12 cancellations, forcing the district to push classes further into June.

This year, however, the calendar holds.

Graduation for Boyne City High School is set for May 31, with the school year wrapping up less than two weeks later — right on schedule.

> Boyne Falls School Superintendent Cynthia Pineda said her district had nine school closure days this winter, and she applied for forgiveness on the additional three days. “I am waiting to hear back from MDE (Michigan Department of Education) on that application.”

You may donate online or mail a check to

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

Thank you!

Here's what you may see as you approach the Police Department window at Boyne City Hall: Police Chief Kevin Spate and support specialist Syrina Dawson with Bernese mountain dog brothers Bruce and Sprocket.

Bruce and Sprocket - Two big fuzzy reasons to stop by the Police Department 

By Annie Doyle Grove, annie@boynecitizen.com 

They’re not on the payroll, don’t carry badges and have zero sense of personal space — but Bruce Spate and Sprocket Eads may be the most popular faces inside Boyne City Police Department.

The two one-year-old Bernese mountain dog brothers can usually be found stationed at the front desk of City Hall’s police office, greeting visitors with wagging tails and oversized paws propped up on the counter.

“They’re professional greeters,” said Police Chief Kevin Spate.

Bruce, named after the great white shark in Jaws (and Finding Nemo), belongs to Spate. His brother, Sprocket — slightly bigger with a tongue that rarely stays in his mouth — is owned by Boyne City Executive Assistant Jennifer Eads.

They’ve been coming to work since they were about 8 weeks old.

“They hang out, they go visit the ladies next door, they get treats,” Spate said. “People come in to see them.”

And they do.

Police support specialist Syrina Dawson, who works the front window, said reactions are immediate — and often disarming.

“Most people are amazed,” Dawson said. “Their first reaction is, ‘Oh my gosh, they’re gorgeous.’”

Sometimes, she said, the dogs do more than just draw smiles.

“People come in upset, and then they see the dogs — and they just relax.”

That’s part of the point.

While not trained therapy animals — “not well-behaved enough for that,” Spate joked — Bruce and Sprocket bring a softer edge to a place people don’t always visit under the best circumstances.

“They make the day go by faster,” Spate said. “They make the bad days better.”

On any given day, visitors might not even see the staff first. Dawson said Sprocket has a habit of planting his paws on the counter and peering out the window — often becoming the first thing people notice when they walk in.

“They don’t even see me,” she said, laughing.

The brothers, raised together by an Amish family in Clare, have grown up side by side — and it shows. They move like a pair, greet like a pair and, according to staff, soak up attention like a pair.

“They’re just two big, fuzzy balls of love,” Dawson said.

Bruce typically clocks out early — around 2 p.m. — but between the two of them, coverage is consistent.

And while they may not write tickets or respond to calls, their role is clear: make the front desk feel a little less intimidating.

For anyone needing directions, help — or just a quick dose of joy — the Boyne City Police Department’s message is simple:

“They’re here,” Spate said. “And so are we.”

“They make the day go by faster,” Chief Spate says. “They make the bad days better.”

Trails Council awarded $8,000 grant for BC-Chx trail

The DALMAC Fund Inc. has awarded Top of Michigan Trails Council $8,000 in response to its request for funding to engineer the last six miles of the Boyne City to Charlevoix Trail, from Horton Bay to Charlevoix. The grant award was announced Wednesday afternoon.

Organizers have already raised nearly $15,000 in an effort to finish the trail's remaining six miles. This brings the total to nearly $23,000, drawing closer to the $50,000 fundraising goal.

This campaign is part of a grassroots effort launched by Top of Michigan Trails Council and the Charlevoix County Trail Team. When complete, the trail will connect Charlevoix and Boyne City along the north shore of Lake Charlevoix. It will also connect to the Little Traverse Wheelway.

Trail Team member Steve Van Dam is spearheading the effort. Community volunteers are needed to assist with fundraising, social media content, press releases and more. Let them know if you're interested in helping out: info@trailscouncil.org.

> Click here to contribute to the trail fund.

Repairs delay the opening of Ironton Ferry

The Ironton Ferry isn’t quite ready to open for the season. County Transportation Director Joe Kroll told the Boyne Citizen this week that his goal is to open the ferry in two weeks, “but I'm being hopeful we have no hiccups. As of now, we do not have a date set in stone.”

“We are going to be doing some much-needed updates to the fuel systems to try and minimize the fuel issues we had last year,” which he said was a design flaw. 

Kroll also said, “The rough winter and recent weather has pushed back getting the county mechanics out there to complete the updates. Instead of opening and closing just to do the repairs we are pushing opening day until we are completely ready.”

To check on whether it’s open, riders can call the Ferry Info Line at 231-308-3727 or check the Ferry web page, which has links to live cameras and details on pricing and discount passes.

Operating hours for most of the season are 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., although the ferry will close at 9:30 p.m. when there is less demand until May 15. 

Boyne City gas prices drop to $4.09

Prices for regular unleaded gas dropped from $4.19 to $4.09 over the past week at the Marathon station at 470 N. Lake Street. That is an increase of $1.00 since the Iran war bombing began on Feb. 28.

Here are recent prices spot checked by the Boyne Citizen:

• 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

Groups to give away trees on Arbor Day, April 24

The City of Boyne City, the Friends of the Boyne River and the Boyne Valley Garden Club are joining to celebrate Arbor Day by giving away free, small evergreen and deciduous trees on Friday, April 24.

Tree giveaways will take place in the pavilion in Veterans Park from 10 a.m. to noon. Boyne City is giving away 18 to 20-inch white pine, red pine, blue and Norway spruce. The Garden Club and the Friends of the Boyne River have joined to give away red maple, red oak, American basswood and American mountain ash. 

Members of both groups will be available to talk about planting and caring for the baby trees. Also present will be Master Gardeners who are “Smart Gardeners” with MSU Extension, members of CAKE/cisma with information about invasive plants, and Skylar MacNaughton with information about monarch butterflies.

The City of Boyne City has been a part of the Tree City USA program for more than 20 years. 

Conservation District Tree Sale pick-up is April 25

The Charlevoix Conservation District Spring Tree Sale pick-up day is Saturday, April 25, and if you missed their order deadline, they are having an Extra Tree Sale two days later. 

Everyone who pre-ordered for the Tree Sale is asked to stop by the district office at 303 North Street from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, April 25 to pick up your order.

If you didn’t place an order, the Extra Tree Sale will be held Monday, April 27, from 4-6 p.m. or until sold out to browse any extra inventory. All leftover trees will be packaged in bundles of five or more and sold as is, first come, first served. 

The Conservation District is moving its Native Plant Sale to spring this year, when it will be held from 12-2 p.m. Saturday June 6. The Plant Sale Species List and Garden Kit Order Forms are available now on their website. The Plant Sale is a browse and buy style sale with Garden Kits available for pre-order only. Individual plants are not available for pre-order. Garden Kit Order Forms are due May 1. 

For questions or to find out more information, call 231-582-6193.

Two free public events planned during Walloon Lake Writer's Retreat

As part of the 5th Annual Walloon Lake Writer’s Retreat this weekend, two events are being planned that are free and open to the public.

On Friday, April 17, a screening of the 2023 movie The Marsh King’s Daughter (starring Daisy Ridley and Ben Mendelsohn) based on the #1 international bestselling thriller written by Michigan author Karen Dionne will be held. Doors to The Talcott Event Center in Walloon Lake will open at 6:30 p.m. and the evening’s activities will begin at 7 with an author-led discussion about the book-to-film process. 

The movie will be shown from 7:30-9:20 p.m. followed by a Q & A session with Dionne. A cash bar and free popcorn will be available, and guests are encouraged to bring their own snacks. A limited number of Dionne’s books (including The Wicked Sister) will be available for purchase and signing, or attendees can pick up copies at McLean & Eakin in Petoskey and bring them to the event for autographing.

On Saturday, April 18, a Walloon Lake Author’s Fair will be held at The Talcott Event Center from 1-3 p.m. Featured authors include past and current participants of the Writer’s Retreat. These writers will be selling and signing copies of their various titles and are happy to talk with the public about the writing process. Featured authors include:

• Karen Dionne - The Marsh King's Daughter & The Wicked Sister
• Dianna Stampfler - Michigan's Haunted Lighthouses & Death and Lighthouses on the Great Lakes
• Cindy Birk - Finding Lilacs & Butterflies on Daisies
• Phyllis Stein Beal - The Adventures of the Thug Puppies
• Julie Van Dickerson - Beaches, Boats, and Birds: A Lake Michigan Alphabet Book & Beyond My Dreams
• Brad Blair - Paranormal Justice, Great Lakes Monsters & Mysteries, & Yoopernatural Haunts

Charlevoix Hospital President Joanne Schroeder announces retirement

After nine years of leading Charlevoix Hospital, President Joanne Schroeder has announced that she will retire effective July 1.

“It has truly been an honor to serve this community and its hospital,” said Schroeder. “Charlevoix Hospital is special because of its people - the caregivers, staff, providers, and community members who show up every day with compassion and pride. I will always be grateful for the opportunity to be part of this team.”

“Joanne’s leadership has had a lasting impact on Charlevoix Hospital,” said Laura Glenn, Munson Healthcare Chief Operating Officer. “She has led with integrity, warmth, and an unwavering commitment to both caregivers and patients. Her legacy will continue to be felt well beyond her retirement.”

Rather than backfilling the local president role to replace Schroeder, Munson is advancing a leadership model starting July 2 in which regional leaders will maintain a regular and visible presence at Charlevoix Hospital, working closely with local leadership to support staff, patients, and daily operations. See press release for details.

Concord Academy Boyne hosts Kindergarten Roundup and open house

Concord Academy Boyne will host its Kindergarten Roundup and an open house on Thursday, April 23. 

Call the school at 231-582-0194 to schedule a 20 to 30-minute appointment for incoming kindergarten students from 8.30 a.m. to 3 p.m. During the visit, parent and child will explore the classroom, meet their teacher, create a garden-themed craft, take a first-day photo and ask questions to ease first-day worries. 

From 5-7 p.m. Thursday night, there is a “Reach for the Stars” all-school open house featuring fun, food, games and creative activities. 

Concord Academy Boyne is a public charter school with no tuition fees. The school is located at 401 E. Dietz Road, Boyne City. School website.

> The Young Americans Performing Arts Summer Camp is coming to Concord Academy Boyne from Aug. 3-7. More information and registration.

Eta Nu members presented a $3,200 check for their new outreach program. From left are Chris Redman, Deb Noblett, Middle School Principal Mike Wilson, Middle School Counseling Assistant Libby Pearson, Middle School Counselor Julie Sisson, and Marnie Parrott.

New Eta Nu project supports middle school students beyond the classroom

Boyne Eta Nu Charities is supporting Boyne City Middle School students with a new outreach program. 

The Middle School counseling office plays a vital role in supporting students not just academically, but in every aspect of their daily lives. Counselor Julie Sisson and Counseling Assistant Libby Pearson have taken this mission to heart, continuing and expanding the spirit of care originally established by the Boyne Eta Nu Charities Dress for Chill program. They have created a lifeline for middle school students facing challenges that can directly impact their well-being and ability to learn.

Their efforts focus on two essential areas: providing winter outerwear for students in need and ensuring access to healthy snacks throughout the school day and beyond.

Meeting basic needs with compassion

Recognizing that students cannot focus on learning when basic needs go unmet, Sisson and Pearson have built a program that quietly but effectively supports those who need it most. Each year, they purchase, organize, and distribute brand-new winter gear—including coats, hats, gloves, and boots—to approximately 75-80 fifth and sixth grade students. In Northern Michigan, where winters can be harsh and unforgiving, having proper clothing is not a luxury—it is a necessity.



In addition to clothing, the counseling office has become a safe and welcoming place for students experiencing hunger. With a school population of around 400 students aged 10-14, many stop by regularly for a healthy snack. Sisson and Pearson keep a variety of nutritious options on hand, ensuring students have access to food during the school day and even after school hours. Their understanding is simple but powerful: hunger affects concentration, behavior, and overall academic success.

A growing impact



The reach of this program is significant. While the winter gear initiative currently serves younger middle school students, there are plans to expand and include seventh graders in the near future. Meanwhile, the snack program continues year-round, benefiting a broad portion of the student body.

This dual approach addresses both immediate and seasonal needs, helping students feel comfortable, cared for, and ready to learn. It also strengthens the broader community by supporting families who may not have the resources to meet these needs on their own.

Operating this program requires consistent funding. The winter gear initiative costs approximately $6,000 annually, while the healthy snack program requires about $4,000 per year. To help sustain and grow these efforts, Boyne Eta Nu Charities has donated $3,200 with $2,000 designated for clothing purchases and $1,200 for snacks.

A sustainable, ongoing initiative

“The Middle School Program Assistance is not a one-time effort—it is a program with lasting importance,” said Marnie Parrott, Boyne Eta Nu Charities communications committee member. “Student needs persist year after year, and this initiative has the potential to become a permanent pillar of community support.”

“While some funding currently comes from local organizations, such as a recent $3,000 contribution from the Christ Child Society, as well as donations from a local food pantry and orchard, these sources are not sufficient to fully meet demand. Julie and Libby have even supplemented the program with their own personal funds, underscoring both the need and their deep commitment,” Parrot said.

Evangeline Township Board meeting summary

The Evangeline Township Board held its regular meeting Tuesday, April 14. Here is a summary provided by the township:

• Boyne City Planning Director Zach Sompels introduced himself to the township board.
• Jonathan Shiels introduced himself to the board and explained how his firm works with zoning enforcement.
• Approved Gabridge & Co. to prepare the bi-annual Local Unit Fiscal Report (F-65).
• Discussed topics for the spring edition of the township newsletter.
• Ron Rechlin was hired as township sexton.
• Updated the fee schedule for non-resident purchase of cemetery lots to $1,500.
• Approved a letter to the Boyne City manager regarding planning services in FY2025/26.
• Wildwood Harbor Road potholes will be filled as soon as the weather warms up enough for the material to adhere.
• Approved Cemetery Zoning Ordinance amendments. A summary will be sent to the Charlevoix County News to be published, becoming effective 30 days after publication.
• A small coat rack will be purchased for the Town Hall.
• Discussed past special assessment districts for road improvements.
• The next EMS meeting of the townships and the city will take place April 30.
• Public Accuracy Testing for the May 5 Special School Election will take place on April 17.
• The Special Election Weekend Clerk Hours will be 8am-4pm on May 2.
• The Special School Election will be held at the Town Hall on May 5.
• The next regular meeting of the township board will be held May 12 at 5:30pm.
• The township’s annual Park and Pack will be held June 6 at the Town Hall. Postcards will be mailed the first week of May.
• 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.

News Briefs

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS - Spring is finally here, so the Boyne Area Chamber says they are bringing Business After Hours to the lake from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Thursday, April 23. Barrel Back restaurant is hosting an Earth Day evening of cocktails, mocktails, conversation, and connection, celebrating Walloon Lake. Complimentary hors d’oeuvres will be provided, and there is no admission fee. Walloon Lake Conservancy and 106 KHQ are cosponsoring the event.

> The Boyne, Charlevoix, and East Jordan chambers of commerce will be joining to host their annual regional Business After Hours at 5 p.m. Thursday, May 14 at Charlevoix's newest event space, The Irene, located at 104 State Street. Full Business After Hours schedule.

SPAGHETTI DINNER fundraiser for Boyne Area Alano Club will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, April 16, at St. Matthew's Church Fellowship Hall, 1303 Boyne Avenue in Boyne City. Spaghetti, garlic bread, salad and desserts will be served, and donations are appreciated. The Alano Club manages Unity Hall, located at 509 North East Street in Boyne City, a safe and caring meeting place for people suffering from addictive, compulsive or other behavioral problems. Daily group meetings are offered. Meeting times can be found at www.wmaad13.org or call the information line at 231.348.5005. Unity Hall is managed by the Boyne Area Alano Club.

ART OF THE POUR - Art lovers and community supporters are invited to “an evening of elegance and philanthropy” at the upcoming "Art of The Pour" benefit event. Hosted by the Friends of the Boyne District Library, the evening will take place from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, April 22 at Boyne Valley Vineyards. The evening's centerpiece is a live auction starting at 7 p.m., featuring original pieces from local artists. Guests will have the opportunity to bid on and take home a piece of Northern Michigan artistry while supporting library programs and services. Each ticket includes a complimentary glass of Boyne Valley Vineyards wine, a custom rechargeable book lamp, and appetizers served throughout the evening. Anyone interested in attending can use this link to purchase tickets.

PROJECT CONNECT, a day of service for those in need in Charlevoix and Emmet Counties, has been rescheduled to Wednesday, April 22, due to the massive winter storm that occurred in mid-March. The event takes place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the North Central Michigan College Student and Community Resource Center in Petoskey. Free services will be provided by over 70 local non-profit agencies and businesses. Guests can receive a hot snack while learning about the many resources available in the area. No pre-registration is required; however, in order to register for assistance, agencies recommend that you bring certain documents. For details or to download a brochure, go to www.ProjectConnect231.com. Volunteers are also needed; you can register to help at www.ProjectConnect231.com.

SMALL BUSINESS SURVEY - Boyne City Main Street is asking small business owners to take a brief survey from Main Street America. “We want to hear from you, so that the Main Street network can better serve you,” their social media post says. “The results directly impact programs and advocacy. Take the survey.

SCHOOLS ARE HIRING - Boyne City Public Schools have announced multiple job openings for the upcoming school year. You can view all job postings and apply online. For more information about available opportunities, contact the Administration Office at 231-439-8190 or amatelski@boyneschools.org.

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 Falls High School - 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Thursday, April 16
• Boyne District Library - 1-5:30 p.m. Monday, April 20
• Boyne City High School - 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 28

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

BOYNE AREA SENIOR CENTER is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays and serves daily lunches from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. For seniors ages 60+, the lunch donation is $3, for ages 59 and under, $10; and for children 12 and under, $8. Here is the April lunch menu and the April activity calendar.



Local news is made possible by you!

The Boyne Citizen is committed to being a free resource for in-depth local news and information you can trust. Will you join more than 400 donating members who believe the Boyne area needs high-quality news and information?

Regional News

From Bridge Michigan

As Michigan falls further behind, some ask: Time to overhaul high school? - Details

Michigan considers ‘1 buck rule’ to balance herd, better control population - Details

Gambling addiction on the rise. Michigan does less than most states to help - Details 

City of Boyne City Municipal News

HOUSING COMMISSION - The Boyne City Housing Commission is seeking a dedicated individual to fill an opening on its five-member Board of Commissioners. This is a volunteer role with a chance to make a significant impact on housing opportunities in Boyne City and Charlevoix County. The Housing Commission manages Litzenburger Place and Deer Meadows apartments, individual homes in Boyne City, as well as overseeing future developments and administering housing vouchers to support individuals and families with housing costs in the area. For more information about the Boyne City Housing Commission, contact Bethany Hedgepath, executive director, at 231-582-6203 or via email at bhedgepath@boynecityhc.com. To apply, please complete the application Board/Commission Member Application, the Conflict-of-Interest Disclosure form, and return both to City Hall, attention Jessica Puroll OR email to jpuroll@boynecity.gov. Applications due 5/2/2026.

SOUND SYSTEM BIDS - Boyne City Main Street is seeking bids to bring sound and plenty of music to downtown. We welcome bids from all qualified providers by the May 4 deadline. If you have any questions, call 231-582-9009. Details.

SIGN UP FOR CITY ALERTS - The City of Boyne City has launched a new 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.

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

> City Commission's next regular meeting is at 12 p.m. Tuesday, April 28. Agenda page.

Obituaries

Michael James Buttigieg

February 4, 1954 - April 7, 2026 (age 72)

Marvin Albert "Skip" Roberts, Jr.

September 26, 1952 ~ April 10, 2026 (age 73)

Joseph Marchinkewicz

November 6, 1934 ~ March 28, 2026 (age 91)

An interior view of one of Kitty Kemp’s millinery shops in downtown Boyne City. It is presumed to be the first shop’s location on Lake Street. The woman pictured is also thought to be Kitty Kemp - later Mrs. Joseph A. Vought. This original image was purchased in 2003/4 by the author from collector Patrick Nester of San Francisco, California. Mr. Nester had acquired this and other Boyne City images from a southern Illinois estate some 10 years prior. Photograph courtesy of the Patrick McCleary collection. 

THROUGH THE HISTORIAN'S LENS

Kitty B. Kemp-Vought, Boyne City milliner

By Patrick McCleary

The Charlevoix County History Preservation Society

Kitty Bell Kemp was born on January 5, 1868, in Isabella County, Michigan - the daughter of George L. and Francinkay (Abbott) Kemp. Raised in southern Michigan, she finished her education and settled in Mancelona, where she became engaged in the millinery business selling women’s hats. In addition to acquiring valuable experience, her acumen as a businesswoman soon became very apparent. She learned to cater to the tastes of Mancelona’s feminine population and was soon the “go to” consultant in matters of millinery necessities. 

Around the year 1900, Miss Kemp relocated to the bustling village of Boyne. She started with an unusually large stock of millinery goods and in a short time had built up excellent local patronage. Between the years 1901 and 1906, Miss Kemp’s millinery is listed in R. L. Polk & Company’s Michigan Gazetteer. Things were never assured in those early days though, even for the most successful business owners. Around 1906, Miss Kemp battled fate when her entire business was lost to fire. 

William Wallace “W.W.” Bailey, a member of the Boyne City’s first volunteer fire department, makes mention of this occurrence in his weekly column in The Boyne Citizen in 1952:

“An old friend of mine down in Grand Rapids said that I skipped over Kitty Kemp’s Millinery fire in the old Walt Ware building on Lake Street. Excuse me, but it tickled me. So, few see a lot of feathers and lace and so forth go up in smoke, that I forgot to mention it. You see, my better half had just bought herself a new hat, so we didn’t care who had to go bare-headed, and I still have my old Fire Department hat!”  

Although temporarily stifled in her progress by such a severe loss, she at once built the first brick block with a Mr. Capelin on East Main Street. Soon, she was again operating a fine store with an elegant new stock of millinery goods. She was doing a big trade. Kitty Kemp made it her goal to visit Chicago, Detroit and Toledo every season to acquire her well-selected stock of goods. In doing so, she kept in touch with all the latest fashions being produced in the millinery line. Her lady’s general furnishing department was also largely patronized by the people of Boyne City and Charlevoix County for miles around. 

The year 1907 appears to have been a year of change for Kitty Kemp. On August 7 of that year she became the third wife of Mr. Joseph A. Vought. Mr. Vought was a blacksmith by trade and came to the marriage with two sons from his first marriage - Albert and Clyde. The family took up residence in the home at 110 East Main Street, which still stands today. In the 1907-08 issue of R. L. Polk & Company’s Michigan Gazetteer, this entry is found, obviously compiled prior to her August marriage.

1907-1908

Kemp, Miss. K, Fine Millinery, Ladies Furnishings, Notions, Ribbons and Corsets. 110 Main.

In July of 1907, The Boyne Citizen published an Industrial Edition, which highlighted local businesses, their owners and the industrial activities taking place in Boyne City at that time. 

1907 - MISS KEMP



At 110 East Main Street is located the Millinery store of Miss. Kemp, which has a large patronage from the ladies of Boyne City and vicinity. Miss Kemp has all the latest and best millinery creations, is assisted by several skilled workers, and takes great pride in turning out artistic work. She visits the leading millinery centers every season and selects a stock suitable to the needs of her patrons. Miss Kemp has had ample experience in millinery and the allied lines, and her many patrons rely with confidence upon her excellent judgment. 

In the Friday, December 24, 1926, issue of The Boyne Citizen, Kitty B. (Kemp) Vought’s demise was noted - leaving the millinery trade to the many who would continue to follow in her footsteps. 

Mrs. J.A. Vought, who had her place of business on Main Street, died Thursday noon. She had been ill for some time following a stroke of paralysis, and the news of her death does not come as a shock. 

> 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.

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

> We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization. You can donate online here, or mail a check to Boyne Citizen, PO Box 83, Boyne City MI 49712.

2026 Donors

This week's new donors are listed in bold.

Donors from 2024 and 2025 are listed on our website.

Willie Nile plays Freshwater Saturday

Freshwater Concert Venue and Gallery will be hosting Willie Nile in concert at 8 p.m. Saturday, April 18. Tickets are $45, call 231-582-2588. The New York Times called Buffalo, NY-born Willie Nile "one of the most gifted singer-songwriters to emerge from the New York scene in years." Uncut Magazine called him “A one-man Clash” and “the unofficial poet laureate of New York City/” His album Streets Of New York was hailed as “a platter for the ages” by Uncut. Rolling Stone listed The Innocent Ones as one of the “Top Ten Best Under-The-Radar Albums of 2011” and BBC Radio called it “THE rock ‘n’ roll album of the year.” His single from that album, “One Guitar,” was the “Top Pick of the Week” in USA Today.

MUSIC, ARTS, AND ENTERTAINMENT

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

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

Bingo every Tuesday, open to the public, refreshments provided. Doors open at 3 p.m., play starts at 5, ending around 9. The Legion also has a breakfast on the second Saturday of every month from 8-11 a.m.

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

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

> LIVE MUSIC:

• Saturday, April 18 - Yankee Station, 8-11 p.m.

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

> Upcoming classes and exhibits:

• "Return to Light" Exhibit - Now through May 25
• Kids Makers Class / April Showers & Flowers - April 18  
• Kids Art Camp - June 15 - August 14. Scholarships available. 
• Reviving Old Paintings - Demo Night with Julies Tibus - June 15
• The Art of Image Transfer - July 20
• Transform a Failed Painting Workshop - July 22
• Unveiling Trees: Collage & Contrast - August 3-4
• Colorful Figures: Expressive Mixed Media - September 10-11
• Alcohol Ink: Continue the Flow - September 21 - 22
• Book a Private Art Party

BOYNE CITY FARMERS MARKET - Indoors at the Veterans Park Pavilion, 207 N. Lake Street, Boyne City, (231) 582-9009. Open every Saturday, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

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

• April 18 - Terry Coveyou

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

• Mondays - Trivia
• Thursdays - Adam and the Cabana Boys, 7 p.m.
• Fridays - Patrick Ryan, 7 p.m.
• Saturdays - Patrick Ryan and Josh Raber, 7 p.m.
• Saturdays and Sundays - Sports on all screens.

BOYNE DISTRICT LIBRARY - 201 East Main St., Boyne City, 231-582-7861. Newsletter with April 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 April - Nelson Olstrom performs, 7-10 p.m.

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

> LIVE MUSIC:

• Saturday, April 18 - Chris Calleja, 2-6 p.m.
• Saturday, April 25 - Michelle Chenard, 2-6 p.m.

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

> LIVE MUSIC:

• Mondays in April - The Shifties, 6-9 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.

FRESHWATER GALLERY & CONCERT VENUE - 217 S Lake St., Boyne City, (231) 582-2588. Call for tickets.

• Saturday, April 18 - Willie Nile, New York singer-songwriter.
• May concert to be announced.

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

• See website for movies showing on the big screen.

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

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

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

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

> LIVE MUSIC and events:

• Saturday, April 18 - 4th Anniversary Party featuring live music by Seasonal Road, 8-11 p.m.
• Monday, April 20 - Lit with Literature: "Carl's Doomsday Scenario" & "The Dungeon Anarchist's Cookbook" By Matt Dinniman, 7-9 p.m.

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

• Fridays - Open Skate (all ages), 5-9 p.m.
• Saturdays - Open Skate, 2-6 p.m. April 11 includes an Easter Egg Hunt.
• Thursday, April 16 - Christian Skate, 5-8 p.m.

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

Live music 6-9 p.m.:

• Wednesdays - Pete Kehoe (except April 1 and 15)
• Thursdays - Laura Crowe

The Boyne Citizen

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

Email: jim@boynecitizen.com

Phone: 231-675-8793

© Copyright 2026 Boyne Citizen, all rights reserved