May 14, 2026 | Issue #84 | Past issues

Ramblers disconnect

Boyne City High School students Tim Payton, at left, and Brayden Dunlop traded their phones for a game of Spoons on Rambler Disconnect Day. See our story and more pictures from Kalynn Huffman Brower below.

Inside this issue:

Ransomware cyber threat breaches city's system
City recognizes longtime workers with Milestone Awards
Interview with Mushroom Festival Chair Jessica White
66th Mushroom Festival is this weekend
Main Street asks for proposals to buy the Boyne Theater
County board still searching for Beaver Island 911 solution
Free plane rides for kids at BC airport Saturday
Ramblers disconnect and like being unplugged for a day
Memorial Day services planned for May 25
County's only HHW event this year is June 5-6
Walloon Conservancy releases summer events schedule
Local gas prices jump to $4.99 and $6.15
Evangeline Township board meeting report
News briefs, Obituaries & Municipal News
Thanks to the donors who keep the news coming!
Music and entertainment listings

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"It's the kickoff of the summer season for Boyne City, and it's a shoulder season event. The town would be dead without that Mushroom Festival this weekend."

- Jessica White

Mushroom Festival Chair Jessica White on how a small, dedicated team makes it happen

By Jim Baumann, jim@boynecitizen.com

We interviewed Mushroom Festival Chair Jessica White on the eve of this year’s 66th annual festival. Here are the highlights of our conversation:

How do you put on this huge festival in our small town?

It's a small, dedicated team, and then lots of volunteers. It's pretty incredible what we do. We put on a multi-day festival with multiple events through the entire weekend. We bring in thousands of people to the town, generating hundreds of thousands in revenue over the 66 years. So it's a small group of dedicated board members and then lots of volunteers that work throughout the weekend.

The one special thing about the mushroom festival is that it's the kickoff of the summer season for Boyne City, and it's a shoulder season event. The town would be dead without that Mushroom Festival this weekend. There’d be nothing going on.

The Taste of Morels is our featured event, and it's pretty amazing how many restaurants volunteer their time and effort and bring their food to the Taste.

How do you raise enough money to make it happen every year?

We rely on sponsorships. There are way too many sponsors to list. But I would like to mention our platinum sponsors, who donate $2,500 each - B.C. Pizza, Petoskey Area Visitors Bureau, and TryACreditUnion.com, which is a new one that just came to us because they heard about what a great festival we have. All of the festival sponsors are listed on their website.

We give back to the community in a lot of ways. People might not be aware of this. So we're our own 501c3. We're not affiliated with the chamber or the city. So we raise all of our funds, and then with our profits, we give back to so many organizations.

The main thing we do is give scholarships to Charlevoix County graduating seniors. It’s open to Boyne City, Charlevoix, East Jordan, Boyne Falls, Concord Academy, Morgan Shaw alternative school.

I’ve heard that people come from all over to attend the festival.

One way we know that is people have to register for the Competitive Hunt, so we know where they’re coming from. I mean, they're coming from all over the state - the U.P. and all over Michigan. They're coming from all over the United States - Kentucky this year. There are people that come from all over the world. We had one girl that came from Taiwan. We've had somebody from Morocco. We've had somebody from Scotland. You know, it's a niche festival, and the people that are really into mushrooms, they come and they have a great time.

How has it kept going for 66 years?

We have a new generation of board members, and we have learned from the decades of service and commitment of previous board members. That's huge. Kim and Mike Brown and Pam and Sam Chipman built the festival into what it is today. So we have learned from them. They taught us all how to make it work and keep it going.

The Taste of Morels is the signature event of the Mushroom Festival, attracting hundreds to sample tastes from area restaurants in the heated tent. (Photo courtesy of Boyne City Mushroom Festival)

66th Mushroom Festival is this weekend with tastings, seminars, music, arts and crafts, carnival and a morel hunt

Boyne City’s 66th Annual National Morel Mushroom Festival starts today and continues through Sunday, May 17. Held in Veterans Park and other locations around the community, this popular event features competitive morel hunting, tastings, seminars, arts & crafts, live music, and a carnival. The festival celebrates the northern Michigan morel season every year on the weekend after Mother's Day.

Here is the full schedule of events and we’ve picked out the main highlights below, held in a giant heated tent at Veterans Park unless otherwise noted.

CARNIVAL - The fun starts at 3 p.m. Thursday, May 14, with the Schmidt Amusements Carnival sponsored by Boyne Valley Lions. The carnival continues through Sunday, and discount ticket coupons are available at local businesses and the Boyne Area Chamber office.

ARTS & CRAFTS SHOW and food trucks are open from 12-6 p.m. Friday, 10 to 6 on Saturday and 12-3 on Sunday.

MOREL SEMINAR - Five-time morel hunt champion Tony Williams gives this popular free presentation from 3-4:30 p.m. Friday.

MOREL WINE & DINE is sponsored by the Boyne Area Chamber at 5:30 and 7:30 p.m. Friday at the Beach House restaurant on Deer Lake. This event sells out every year, even with a $115 ticket price, so make your reservations here.

LIVE MUSIC from 7-10 p.m. Friday in the heated tent at Veterans Park with Yankee Station performing. $10 admission for 21 and older with a cash bar available.

COMPETITIVE MOREL HUNT registration and bus loading is held from 7:30-8:40 a.m. Saturday at Boyne City High School. Online pre-registration is recommended for $33.85 and includes transportation to the secret hunting grounds for a timed 90-minute hunt, which is held rain or shine. Trophies and cash prizes are awarded at Veterans Park after the mushrooms are counted. Here are the hunt rules and information.

FARMERS MARKET kicks off their outdoor season from 8 a.m. to 12 noon Saturday in Veterans Park.

PAINTING IN THE PARK is held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. Kids and adults can paint a “one-of-a-kind morel masterpiece” alongside Daniel Duncan of Duncan Studios. Donations are appreciated to cover the cost of materials.

TASTE OF MORELS is the festival’s premiere event, held from 12-2:30 p.m. Saturday. It is reportedly the “largest concentration of morel mushroom cooking in the world.” Local chefs prepare morel-infused delicacies and compete for the top three winning dishes as voted on by a panel of celebrity judges. Cash bar available. $10 admission with tasting tickets available for purchase.

LAKE CHARLEVOIX BOAT CRUISE - 90-minute cruises at 3 and 5:30 p.m. Saturday aboard the Harbor Princess classic passenger vessel. Guests can relax with stunning views, enjoy a selection of alcoholic beverages, and take in the charm of Northern Michigan from the deck of this unique boat. Reservations required, $30.

GREAT MOREL GIVEAWAY - Enter to win a pound of morels or a $50 gift certificate at multiple participating downtown businesses. Entries are free and can be made in advance at as many businesses as you like. Drawings begin at 4 p.m. Saturday at Freshwater Art Gallery and travel through downtown in the "Morel Mob" until drawings are done. Must be present to win.

LIVE MUSIC from 7-11 p.m. Saturday in the heated tent at Veterans Park with Derailed performing. $10 admission for 21 and older with a cash bar available.

PAINT & SIP with Duncan Studios will be held from 12-3 p.m. Sunday in the park. Create a one-of-a-kind Michigan morel painting with detailed instruction by artist Dan Duncan, plus a complimentary glass of wine or beer, $60 per person. Pre-registration is required.

REMINDERS - All city parks are tobacco, drug and weapon free. Dogs are not allowed in city parks during special events and festivals.

SCHOLARSHIPS - Festival proceeds go to provide up to three $1,000 scholarships for 2026 graduating seniors attending any school in Charlevoix County. The students must be in good academic standing and plan to attend a full-time accredited college, university or trade school.

Festival weather forecast: Just about perfect!

You may donate online or mail a check to

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

Thank you!

Main Street asks for proposals to buy the Boyne Theater with July 15 due date

By Jim Baumann, jim@boynecitizen.com

The Boyne City Main Street Board approved a request for proposals putting the Boyne Theater up for sale at its meeting on May 7.

The board had approved the basic elements of the sale at its April 2 meeting, directing Executive Director Ingrid Day to consult with the city attorney in drafting the RFP, which was presented and approved last week. Purchase proposals must be submitted by July 15.

The Main Street RFP stipulates that “All submitted proposals must include a clear purchase price offer. Additionally, all proposals must include a commitment to provide a 5% earnest money deposit upon the execution of a purchase agreement.”

The RFP states that “There are no restrictions on the future use of the property,” however it also requires the buyer to include “a brief narrative of the proposed use of the property and any timetable for making improvements.”

Main Street says the selection of a buyer “will involve a multi-step review process. First, proposals will be compiled and reviewed by the Main Street Director and legal counsel.”

Following the initial review, the proposals will be presented to the Main Street Board for discussion, consideration, and a final decision, which will take place during an open public meeting.

The board reserves the right to “reject any and all proposals, to waive any informality or defect in any proposal, and to accept any proposal deemed to be in the best interest of BCMS (Boyne City Main Street).”

Board members have said they intend to find a buyer that will operate the building as a theater/event center, but they declined to outright offer the building to a group of local residents who are setting up a nonprofit organization that would do that.

Meanwhile, that group has made significant progress in setting up a 501c3 nonprofit organization, which will be called “Boyne Community Theater & Event Venue.”

They have filed for state and federal nonprofit status, and have named a board of directors and developed a committee structure. Officers are President Scott McKenzie, Secretary Michelle Cortright, and Treasurer Lisa Bruner.

The organization’s stated purpose is “To provide the Boyne community with a sense of place through a multi-purpose venue for community gatherings and cultural experiences; to honor the memory of the historic theater; and to serve as an economic driver contributing to a vibrant downtown.”

A statement provided by Cortright said, “As you know, we have an involved, dedicated group of volunteers who are working hard to make this happen for our community. We are also working on a budget for both the renovation and ongoing expenses.”

At the April board meeting, the group offered to purchase the theater for $350,000, the price that Main Street paid when it purchased the building several years ago.

The building has not been operated as a theater for more than 20 years, and it is expected that returning it to that use will be very costly.

County board still searching for Beaver Island 911 solution

By Carole Shane, cjshane@charter.net

Charlevoix County Commissioners again discussed the issue of how to improve access to emergency communications on Beaver Island. An estimated 30-40% of Beaver Island is not able to connect with emergency services due to lack of cell phone service.

Commissioners are discouraged that the CCE 911 (Charlevoix Cheboygan Emmet Central Dispatch Authority) has been unresponsive to Charlevoix County’s repeated requests for action on the installation of an additional cell tower that would alleviate the access problem.

Board chairman Scott Hankins, who is also a member of the CCE 911 board, moved that Charlevoix County go forward independently with the construction of a $2.3-2.4 million Motorola tower. Hankins estimated that half of the money is already available in appropriated county funds.

Hankins’ motion failed for lack of a second, but the commissioners agreed to take up the matter again at their next meeting, pending another appeal to the tri-county CCE 911 board members.

Commissioners learned that the cost of raw foods and disposable containers used in the Commission on Aging (COA) food program for senior citizens has almost doubled this year. Board members voted to approve a budget amendment for the COA so that the food services can continue.

During public comment, several citizens implored the board to use whatever influence they have to prevent the closure of Bergman Center, citing the importance of services provided to developmentally disabled adults in Charlevoix County.

Commissioners discussed comments they have received from constituents within their districts. The structure and financing of emergency medical services within the county, the closing of Bergman Center and the prospect of building a new county building in the future are topping the list of concerns.

Hankins stressed that changes to the configuration and location of county offices are only being studied at this time and that no action has been taken toward any particular changes, including the prospect of a new county building.

In other business, the board approved measures that would allow:

Proceeding with a forensic audit of the county’s finances with the accounting firm, Plante Moran at a cost not to exceed $30,000
A contract amendment with GFL for seven new bins to be used in the East Jordan and Boyne City recycling centers
Implementation of 2026 Summer Tax Millage Rate Request
Purchase of a canvas roof replacement at the county building entrance
Purchase of HVAC software upgrade

The next meeting of the Charlevoix County Board of Commissioners is scheduled for 6 p.m. Wednesday, May 27 at the Shirley Roloff Center.

Laiela Anthony flashed a thumbs up and a big smile after taking her Young Eagles flight last year at the Boyne City Airport. She was one of more than 30 youngsters who were treated to free plane rides from local pilots a year ago.

Free plane rides for kids at BC airport Saturday

Free airplane rides for kids will be offered at the Boyne City Municipal Airport on Saturday, May 16. The free rides are being offered by the Harbor Springs chapter of the Experimental Aircraft Association for children ages 8 to 17. Local licensed pilots who are members of the chapter are donating their services and airplanes for this event.

The rides will be offered from 9 a.m. until noon. Parents are encouraged to register their children online in advance to complete the necessary paperwork.

Each child must be accompanied by a parent for a free flight. After the flight, each young person will receive an EAA pilot logbook and a certificate signed by the pilot.

If unsafe weather conditions cause the event to be cancelled, it will not be rescheduled. Other opportunities for free flights will be offered on Saturday, July 11, at the Harbor Springs Municipal Airport from 9 a.m.-12 noon, and on Wednesday, August 19, at the Pellston Regional Airport from 5-7 p.m.

The free rides are part of a unique nationwide program called “Young Eagles,” launched in 1992 to introduce kids to aviation and inspire them to think about the many possibilities associated with flight. The EAA has recognized the Harbor Springs chapter for participating in the Young Eagles program continuously since its start.

These high school students put their phones away and played Uno during their lunch break. From left are Jack VanZee, Zia White, and Wyatt Woodall.

(Photos by Kalynn Huffman Brower)

Ramblers disconnect and enjoy being unplugged for a day

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

Boyne City High School tested a new concept on Wednesday - disconnecting. The core idea was to set aside one eight-hour day for the student population to reduce screen time and increase personal connection.

The mastermind behind Rambler Disconnect Day was Brian Thomas, history and social studies teacher. Thomas runs the Rambler Connect Club, and this whole student-driven initiative has grown from conversations among the club members.

At a recent club meeting they talked about the challenges and pressures of social media, and the students wondered, what if they had time when they could just disconnect?

Thomas pondered this desire to unplug, and realized that the Rambler Connect Club, charged with raising school spirit and making community connections, could call for a day to find connection through disconnection. The idea was in the name. The club was enthusiastic, and the principal and parents were just as supportive. Thus emerged the concept of Rambler Disconnect Day.

The Rambler Connect Club made stickers that say simply “I Unplugged” and handed them out at the front door in the morning. They also organized games, arts and craft supplies, and musical instruments around the perimeter of the cafeteria, available for use during lunchtime.

Not everyone took advantage of the cards or other tabletop games, classics like Uno, Jenga, Cranium, and Spoons. But the game tables did fill with students during their lunch period.

Four girls played a game called Mancala, moving glass tokens around a carved wooden board. Would they like this option all the time? “I’d play the games more if they were out every day,” one said.

Another girl playing Mancala nodded and said, “And if they opened the gym, that would be great, too.“

Rambler Disconnect was optional for many reasons. Some teachers already had lesson plans that were reliant on digital technology for presentations and assignments. Thomas acknowledges, “The irony here is I have a digital classroom.” Everyone is seeking a balance between online and analog experiences.

“It’s nice to talk with people you don’t usually get to,” said Zia White, who played Uno with other students. As for any downsides to disconnecting, she said, “If we were going to do this again, we would need a longer lead up, because some of our assignments were in Chromebook.”

“Most importantly, I want my kids to know they can go for eight hours without being online and be fine.” Thomas said, “We had a blast today in class. I turned on a radio. Even that simplicity in itself was a cool little change. Listening to the radio while we worked on a paper. It made it fun.”

Seniors Bradon Dunlop and Timmy Badon played Spoons and reflected on their Rambler Disconnect Day. “It’s kind of cool, just because you’re able to socialize more. No one’s just plugged onto their screens or just to themselves like when they have their earpods in. So it’s cool, because you’re more in the moment.”

Organizers and observers were enthusiastic and positive on day one, and will evaluate the successes and challenges of the Rambler Disconnect initiative to see how the concept might be woven into the future class plans, perhaps becoming a semi-regular school practice.

Above: Boyne City High School students Halie Johnecheck, at lef, and Alizabeth LaBeth are disconnecting at lunchtime playing Jenga.

Below: Ella Parish, at left, and Allison Kujawski are playing Mancala.

Memorial Day services planned for May 25

Boyne area veterans will hold memorial services at local cemeteries from 8 to 11 a.m. Monday, May 25, followed by a community-wide service at Veterans Memorial Park at 12 noon.

A bus donated by Charlevoix County Transit will leave from in front of the American Legion Hall at 7 a.m. and transport the Honor Guard to breakfast at McDonald’s, area cemeteries and back to the American Legion Hall. Memorial services will be held at the following times and locations:

8:00 AM - Memorial Park, Boyne Falls

8:15 AM - Memorial Park, Walloon Lake

8:35 AM - Evangeline Township Cemetery, Evangeline Township

8:55 AM - Dyer Cemetery, Bay Township

9:20 AМ - Advance Cemetery, Eveline Township

9:35 AM - Wilson Township Cemetery, Wilson Township

9:50 AM - Maple Lawn Cemetery, Boyne City

At 11:45 a.m. the Veterans Memorial Day Procession will leave the American Legion Post at 302 S. Lake St., proceeding north on Lake Street to Veterans Memorial Park for services beginning at 12 noon.

The Boyne City High School Band will perform the National Anthem, which will be sung by Jasta Lyn Wermuth. The flags of each of the seven branches of service will be hoisted in their establishment order as the band plays their anthems, starting with Army, then Marines, Navy and Merchant Marine, Air Force, Coast Guard, and Space Force.

All area veterans are invited to participate. The service at Veterans Memorial Park is hosted by the Boyne City Area Veterans Memorial Committee and the American Legion.

> Here is a flyer with details of the Memorial Day services.

County's only HHW event this year is June 5-6

Charlevoix County will be holding only one Household Hazardous Waste collection event this year with appointments available Friday, June 5 from 4-8 p.m. and Saturday, June 6 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

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

If you would like to be notified via email about upcoming HHW and recycling events, click on the following link: please join our notification list and submit an application. Those on the notification list will receive an email approximately two weeks in advance of each event with a link to reserve your appointment online.

Those who do not make an online appointment may make phone reservations beginning Monday, June 2 through Friday, June 5 between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. Call 231-547-0080. You are asked to only call once and leave a message. Calls will be returned in the order received.

The location will be provided when scheduling your reservation.

Common hazardous items accepted at this event include fluorescent bulbs, motor oil, batteries (car, boat, motorcycle, and household), pesticides, cleaners & polishes, aerosols, automotive fluids, oil paints, stains, finishes and thinners, solvents, mercury and items containing mercury, medicines free.

Latex Paint is not hazardous. You can pour the paint out onto cardboard, let dry, and then dispose of it in the trash. The county will be charging $3 per gallon for disposal.

Other accepted items include:

Electronics: computers, TV’s, cameras, telephones, microwave ovens, game systems, printers, VCR’s, radios (items that contain hazardous materials).
Appliances: refrigerators, humidifiers, dehumidifiers, air conditioners, freezers, stoves, disposals, lawnmowers, electric or gas motors, anything steel is free. No dishwashers, water softeners, or fiberglas tanks.
Mattresses: When scheduling your reservation, state the number of mattresses and box springs being dropped off. Fee: $20 per mattress; $20 per box spring.

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

Walloon Lake Association and Conservancy releases summer events schedule

The Walloon Lake Association and Conservancy (WLAC) has released its summer schedule of education programs and community engagement events. Designed to connect people with the natural beauty and ecological importance of the Walloon Lake watershed, this season’s lineup offers opportunities for residents, visitors, and families of all ages to learn, explore, and get involved.

The summer schedule features a diverse mix of guided hikes, educational workshops, volunteer stewardship days, and a new signature WLAC Summer Speaker Series, among other community gatherings.

“Summer is when our community comes alive around the lake,” said Jon Breithaupt, WLAC executive director. “Our programs are designed to bring people together, build awareness, and inspire stewardship of the Walloon Lake watershed in ways that are engaging, accessible, and meaningful.”

All events are free and open to the public, unless otherwise noted. Advance registration is encouraged, as space may be limited for some events. A full schedule, program descriptions, and registration details are available at walloon.org/get-involved/events.

The first event of the Summer Speaker Series will be Sustainable Agriculture Near Walloon Lake at The Talcott Event Center rom 5:30 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 19. Hear from Dave Skornia of Lakeside Farms as he shares how sustainable agricultural practices can protect soil health, reduce runoff, and support clean water in the watershed. This session highlights real-world approaches to farming that balance productivity with long-term environmental stewardship. This event is free and open to the public. Register.

Future events include:

Schoof’s Creek Stream Monitoring - Wednesday, May 27
Fineout Creek Stream Monitoring - Thursday, May 28
Trail Building Workday at Howell-Zimmerman Preserve - Wednesday, June 3
Summer Kick Off Party at Walloon Watershed - Wednesday, June 10, $60

Boyne City gas prices jump to $4.99 and $6.15

Prices for regular unleaded gas jumped 20 cents to $4.99 per gallon in the past week at the Marathon station at 470 N. Lake Street. Diesel jumped from 5.89 to $6.15. Other stations in town are priced the same. Here are recent prices spot checked by the Boyne Citizen since the Iran war started on Feb. 28:

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

> Michigan gas prices (AAA)

Evangeline Township Board meeting summary

The Evangeline Township Board held its regular meeting Tuesday, May 12. Here is a summary provided by the township:

Park and Pack will be held at the Town Hall on June 6, from 7:30 to noon. Remember to bring the postcard that was mailed for admission.
Cemetery Ordinance amendments will be effective May 30. Updates will be posted on the cemetery shed.
Over the winter unauthorized snowplowing in the cemetery damaged the foundation of a headstone, which the township will repair.
25 percent of township voters turned out for the May 6 Char-Em millage election, for a total of 186 voters of which 140 voted Absentee.
Approval renewal of the Granicus short-term rental contract.
The Summer Township Newsletter has been completed and will be included with the Summer tax bills, which will be mailed in late June.
Repairs will be made to the many potholes on Wildwood Harbor Road, using a new type of material. The material used in the past has not held up well.
Improvements to the township’s portion of Call Street were approved, at a cost of $198,842.
Renewals for expired short term rental licenses have been sent and are starting to come in.
Updates to the Cemetery Ordinance were explained to residents in attendance.
Discussed hiring an Ordinance Enforcement Officer, awaiting response from the City of Boyne City.
Assessor inspections will take place this month.
The next regular meeting of the township board will be held June 10 at 5:30 p.m.
The July regular meeting will be held July 8 at 5:30 p.m.
The August regular meeting will be held August 6 at 5:30 p.m.
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

AMERICAN LEGION Post 228 will host a hands-on event on Thursday, May 14, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., featuring military vehicles, local law enforcement and interactive displays. The post is located at 302 S. Lake St., Boyne City. Open to all ages, the event invites residents to explore, learn, and engage with those who have served, bringing the meaning of Memorial Day closer to home.

REGIONAL AFTER HOURS - The Boyne, Charlevoix, and East Jordan chambers of commerce are 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.

GENEALOGY WITH PATRICK - The Boyne District Library will be hosting Genealogy With Patrick on Saturday, May 16, from 1-3 p.m. in their lower level Community Room. Long-time local historian and professional genealogist Patrick McCleary will lead the group’s discussion. Participants are asked to bring along their laptops if they have them or sign up for use of those available through the library using the registration link for this event. This program is free and open to the public and all are encouraged to attend. This program is free and open to the public; no registration is required.

POLLINATOR PLANTING - The Walloon Lake Association and Conservancy (WLAC) is holding a Pollinator Garden Planting Workday from 10 a.m. to 12 noon Saturday, May 16 at the Wildwood Harbor Nature Area, 3899 Wildwood Harbor Rd, Boyne City. The goal is to create a haven for bees and butterflies. They will be restoring a former golf hole by putting almost 200 native species into the soil to support pollinators. No gardening experience is necessary - just show up ready to get a little dirt under your fingernails for a great cause. Register.

SHORT-TERM RENTALS - The Boyne City Commission will host a community engagement work session on Thursday, May 21, focused on the city’s short-term rental ordinance. The meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m. at St. Matthew’s Church Parish Hall, 1303 Boyne Ave. City officials are inviting the public to take part in the discussion on short-term rentals as the community continues to weigh the impact of tourism against limited housing options for year-round residents. Feedback gathered during the session is expected to inform potential future changes to the city’s short-term rental ordinance, though no decisions are expected at that meeting.

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

NATIVE PLANT SALE - The Charlevoix County Conservation District is moving its Native Plant Sale from fall to spring this year, when it will be held from 12-2 p.m. Saturday, June 6. The Plant Sale Species List is available now on their website. The plant sale is a browse and buy style sale at the district office, 303 North St., Boyne City. For questions or to find out more information, call Executive Director Alison Adams at 231-582-6193.

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

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

Boyne City EMS Department - 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Friday, May 22
Boyne Mountain Resort - 12:30-5 p.m. Wednesday, May 27.
BC Beauty Lounge, 115 S. Lake St. #B - 1:30-6 p.m. Monday, June 8.
Boyne District Library - 1-5:30 p.m. Monday, June 22.

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

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

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City of Boyne City Municipal News

Spring rubbish pickup set for Saturday, June 6

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Obituaries

Jon E. Hartwell

September 9, 1967 ~ May 9, 2026 (age 58)

Michael Hausler Memorial Mass, officiated by Father Dennis Stilwell, will be held at St. Matthew Catholic Church on Friday, May 22, 2026 at 11 a.m. A funeral luncheon will follow mass. Michael's obituary.

THROUGH THE HISTORIAN'S LENS

Patrick McCleary has the week off. His column will return next week.

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.

The Hill Donors

$1000 - $4999

Pat and Jane O'Brien

Kirk and Lynne Jabara

Charlevoix County Community Foundation

Avalanche Donors

$500 - $999

Glen and Gwen Catt

Chip and Laura Hansen

Bud and Nancy Shear
Julie and Dan Schmittdiel

Lynne Ross

Matthew Blandford

Jane Stieber Amato and Tony Amato

Floyd and Nancy Wright

Lake Charlevoix Donors

$100 to $499

Andy Schmittdiel

Edward Jones

Kyle Roberts

Carole Shane

Debi O'Leery

Barbara Mendoza

Robert Kirk

Don and Laurie Owen

Bekah Rutz and David Osterhouse

Kathleen Warner

Mary Jane Cargill

Dave and Linda Burnham

Thomas Veryser

Steve and Susan Watson

Gow Litzenburger

Shelli Duff
Karen Colburn

Christine A. Judd

Pam Cislo and Tom Schraw

Jim and Kathe Carter

Bill and Cindy Binder

Kevin and Marci Lavin

Tad Richards

Jeff and Kari Streelman

Miriam Hollar

Lucy Hartlove

Jake Snyder

Judith White

Nancy Hannan

Ronald and Joanne Danczak

Terry and Betty Desmond

Cheri Leach

Holly and Tony Sasso

Judith Goodchild

John Hoffman

Barbara Mathes

Michele Nickel-Frasz

Mark Martin

Carl VanDomelen

Sharon Kuethe

Steve and Carole Drake

Ronald VanHorn

Liesel Litzenburger Meijer
Richard and Gayle Bouters

Gary and Sylvia Cofer

Jane Burger

Bill Aten

Barbara Bryant

Nancy Cunningham

Broc and Lynne Johnson

Paga Family Dentistry

Nancy and Jim McKinstry

Stephanie Moody

John Betts

Stephen Wickens

Gary and Nikki Blakeslee

Andrew and Jo Sahara

Judith Gardner

Dawn Ebersole

Don Ryde

Mark and CathyJay and Peggy Smith

Omer and Carole Racine

Christopher Jones Pumford

Margo Kuhns

Robert Kendell

Walter Kidd

Robin Hissong Berry

Tom and Barbara Miller

Kathy Fruge

Linda G. Knibbs

Mary-Anne Stieber

Richard and Maureen Shipley

Beverly Neville

Marvin Verwys

Caren Peltier

Diane Burke

(Continued next column)

Lake Charlevoix Donors

$100 to $499 continued

Michael Sheean

Ward Collins

Georganna Monk and Chuck Gremel

Zachary Shaltz

Randy Hackney
Emil and Pat Nelson

Michael and Jacque Harrington

Babette Stenuis Stolz and Jack Stolz

Roger and Patricia Jacobsen

Ray and Karen Guzniczak

Deborah and John Rohe

Vasco and Joan Zucchiatti

Jeff and Beth Freeman

Mary and Dave Anderson

John and Monica Ross

Gregory Damman

James Graves

Nancy DeMeuse

Ronald Lewis

Carol Ross

Gayle Harbaugh

Wirt-Rivette Group and Moxie Development

Yvonne Schmidt

Catherine Bowers

Jim Nielsen

Randy and Cathy Parker

Candy and Bob Greene

Jeff and Carolee MacFarlane

Jock and Marilyn Rader

Rachel and Louis Swiss

Peter Linetzky and Susan Willoughby Linetzky

Theresa Vondra

Mike and Diane Bajko

Barbara and George Ellwanger

The Frykberg Family

Peter Moss

Jeanine Larsen

John and Jan Bennish

Sunset Beach Donors

$60- $99

Jack Laurent

Monica Peck

William Cousineau

Jay E. Vanderwall

Mitchell and Carly Klooster

Joel and Nancy Epstein

Don Stolt

Elizabeth Swift

Steve and Karen Jarema

Bob and Bedonna Perish

Eleanor West

Patricia and Nord Schroeder

Chad Henry

Brian Tappan

Whitney Schmit

The Tosch Family

Mark Christensen

LuAnne Kozma

Paul and Colleen Kuehl

Cristina Staats

Kathy Breedlove

Peninsula Beach Donors

Under $60

Leisa Ratu

Christy Weaver

Marc Ressler

Didi Brown

Bob Niemi

Caroline Sottrel

Larry Bernhardt

Margaret Fitzpatrick

Edward and Colette Geck

Barbara Wulff

Tom Shifrin

John George Martin

Sheldon and Karla Buckmaster

Henry and Donna Erber

Jayne Howard

Brooke Sandtveit

Margaret Beegen

Jane Prebble
Bill Nichols
Terry and Jeffrey Gaither

Joe and Lorraine Manary

Captain Bob Goodenough

Sheri Rhoads

Janice Lavanway

Bob and Lenore Beckman

Dory Ferguson

Bunny Marquardt

Theresa Whitley-Farley

Don Kaegi

Donors from 2024 and 2025 are listed on our website.

Donate

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, May 16 - Timberline, 8-11 p.m.
Tuesday, June 9 - Summer concert series begins and continues every Tuesday at 6 p.m.

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

> Upcoming classes and exhibits:

"Return to Light" Exhibit - Now through May 25
Ribbon Cutting Celebration Public - Friday, June 5, 5 p.m.
Kids Art Camp - June 15 - August 14. Scholarships available.
Reviving Old Paintings - Demo Night with 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
BAC will be closed the week of May 25 to move into our new location at 211 Water Street.

BOYNE CITY FARMERS MARKET - Indoors at the Veterans Park Pavilion, 207 N. Lake Street, Boyne City, (231) 582-9009.

The market moves outdoors in Veterans Park starting Saturday, May 16, with expanded hours of 8 a.m.-12 noon on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

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

May 23 - 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 and Josh Raber, 7 p.m.
Saturdays - Patrick Ryan, 7 p.m.
Saturdays and Sundays - Sports on all screens.

BOYNE DISTRICT LIBRARY - 201 East Main St., Boyne City, 231-582-7861. Upcoming programs Including Genealogy Workshop, Classic Book Discussion: Frankenstein by Mary Shelley, and Michigan Notable Book Author Tour! Bear County, Michigan by John Counts. Newsletter with May events and details.

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

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

BOYNE RIVER INN - 229 Water St., Boyne City, (231) 222-4053.

LIVE MUSIC:

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

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

> LIVE MUSIC:

Saturday, May 16 - Two Track Mind, 2-6 p.m.
Friday, May 22 - Chris Calleja, 4-7:30
Saturday, May 23 - Michelle Chenard, 2-6 p.m.
Monday, May 24 - Chris Calleja, 1:30-5:00
Friday, May 29 - Michelle Chenard, 2-6 p.m.
Saturday, May 30 - TBD, 2-6 p.m.

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

> LIVE MUSIC:

Friday, May 15: Pete Kehoe, 7-10 p.m.
Saturday, May 16: Pete Kehoe, 7-10 p.m.
Monday, May 18: The Shifties, 6-9 p.m.
Friday, May 22: Lavender Lions Duo, 7-10 p.m.
Saturday, May 23: The Fridays, 7-10 p.m.
Friday, May 29: Chris Calleja, 7-10 p.m.
Saturday, May 30 - Sean Bielby, 7-10 p.m.

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

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

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

Sunday, May 24 - The Hit Men, Classic rock supergroup. Details and tickets.
Friday, May 29 - Crooked Tree Arts Center School of Ballet presents Dance Legends: Little Traverse Bay Celebrates Graham100. Details and tickets.
See website for movies showing on the big screen.

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

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

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

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

> LIVE MUSIC and events: