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August 27, 2026 | Issue #100! | Past issues

Scouts complete beach project

Alexis Jaskowski, at left, and Cassidy LaBeth pose with the Beach Toy Library that they and three other Cadette Scouts completed and installed at Peninsula Beach in Boyne City. The five scouts are one step closer to completing their Silver Award, the highest honor given in Cadette Girl Scouting. Our story below has details.

Inside this issue:

• Should the city turn Sunset Park log cabin into a pavilion?
• Commission approves $26,000 for playground repairs
• Financing approved for for new BC ambulance 
• Celebrate Boyne Citizen's second anniversary on Sept. 10
• Stroll the Streets lineup for Friday night
• Boyne City adds 7 teachers for school year
• Two administrators join BC Schools for new year
• Boyne Falls School adds new teachers and a new chef
• C3F awards $784,000 in student scholarships
• Can you help us identify these old-time faces?
• Girl Scouts complete year-long Beach Toy Library project
• WLAC announces fall community events
• Hotel Walloon announces inaugural Autumn Festival
• Library Friends to host harvest celebration
• Library topics: 9/11 film; book talk, flying machines
• BC unleaded gas price up 10 cents, diesel unchanged
• Patrick McCleary: One of Boyne's first teachers
• News briefs, Obituaries & Municipal News
• Thanks to the donors who keep the news coming!
• Music and entertainment listings

This is Boyne Citizen Issue #100 - do you believe it?

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Here is an artificial intelligence rendering of a possible pavilion that could replace the deteriorating log cabin in Sunset Park.

Boyne City considers turning aging Sunset Park log cabin into a pavilion 

By Annie Doyle Grove, annie@boynecitizen.com

A familiar Boyne City landmark could take on a new look and purpose as the city's Parks and Recreation Commission explores replacing the deteriorating log cabin in Sunset Park with an open-air pavilion.

The proposal is still in the conceptual stage, and no final design or cost has been determined. Parks and Recreation Commission Chair Pete Friedrich said the commission is seeking public input before moving forward.

The city-owned log cabin, which formerly housed the Boyne Area Chamber of Commerce, has sat largely unused for the past several years and is showing significant deterioration.

"It's in pretty bad shape," Friedrich said. "There's holes in the logs, the backside, the two corners are sinking, and the inside's in poor shape."

The idea is part of a broader effort to refresh Sunset Park, including replacing aluminum benches with green benches and creating a more consistent look among picnic tables and other park features.

Friedrich said the commission has discussed what to do with the cabin for a couple of years. While members initially hoped portions of the existing structure could be saved, they determined the roof would not be practical to reuse because of its log construction and weight.

The current concept calls for removing most of the cabin while preserving its stone fireplace and incorporating it into an open-sided pavilion. Stone matching the fireplace could also be incorporated into the pavilion's support posts.

The fireplace could eventually be converted to gas, allowing it to provide a welcoming fire during the winter months.

The pavilion would also open views of Lake Charlevoix that are currently blocked by the cabin.

"When you get to that corner, you could see the lake," Friedrich said.

Parks and Rec Commission members envision the pavilion serving several purposes, including providing a shaded picnic and gathering area and a location for musicians during Stroll the Streets. The Boyne Area Chamber has also expressed interest in using part of the space during busy visitor days.

Plans call for retaining the existing pond, fountain, flowers and gardens surrounding the cabin, along with the Young State Park directional sign. A map highlighting Boyne City's parks could also be displayed at the pavilion.

Friedrich acknowledged that some residents may have a sentimental attachment to the log cabin, which served as the chamber's home for decades. He noted, however, that the building was moved to its current location rather than originally constructed there.

"There's going to be a lot of people excited about it, but then there'll also be people (who say), 'That's been there since I was a kid, so it should stay there,'" Friedrich said.

No cost estimate has been developed. Friedrich said the Main Street Downtown Development Authority has expressed interest in helping with the project, as Sunset Park as part of downtown.

After gathering public input, the commission plans to seek cost estimates and determine whether funding from the Parks and Recreation budget, along with potential DDA assistance, would be sufficient to move ahead.

If the project proceeds, Friedrich said the goal would be to put the work out for bids and begin construction in the spring, potentially allowing the public to use the pavilion by next summer.

The rendering being circulated with the proposal is conceptual only and is intended to give residents an idea of what the space could become. A final design has not been created.

Residents can submit comments to the city or attend the Parks and Recreation Commission's next meeting at 5 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 10 at Boyne City Hall.

City approves $26,000 for Veterans Park playground repairs

By Annie Doyle Grove, annie@boynecitizen.com 

Boyne City will spend up to $26,000 to address environmental concerns at the Veterans Park community playground, a move commissioners say will allow the popular wooden structure to remain open while the city works toward a longer-term plan for its future.

The Boyne City Commission voted unanimously Aug. 25 to approve the expenditure from the city's general fund, offset by a contribution from the Main Street Downtown Development Authority. The work, expected to take place between Sept. 14 and 30, will include sealing the wooden playground structure and remediating the surface beneath it.

The decision follows months of discussion over the future of the approximately 25-year-old playground after city officials identified environmental, maintenance and safety concerns earlier this summer.

The Parks and Recreation Committee recommended the expenditure following an Aug. 13 special meeting where residents were invited to discuss the playground's future. 

Parks and Marina Supervisor Joshua Bernthal told commissioners residents who spoke at the meeting consistently supported keeping the playground open and maintaining it as a central attraction in the city.

The committee subsequently voted unanimously to recommend funding to seal the structure and purchase material needed to cover the playground surface.

The $26,000 expenditure represents a significantly scaled-back approach from the $60,000 immediate action plan commissioners considered in July. That proposal failed on a 2-2 vote July 28, with Mayor Bob Farrell and Commissioner Bridget Foltz supporting it and Commissioners Beano Hampton and Becky Houser opposing it. Commissioner Aaron Place was absent.

Although commissioners unanimously supported the new proposal Tuesday, several emphasized that the work does not resolve all of the playground's problems and called for the Parks and Recreation Committee to develop a comprehensive plan for its future.

Hampton, who opposed the earlier $60,000 proposal, said she attended the Aug. 13 Parks and Recreation meeting hoping to see a plan outlining what will happen to the playground over the next five to 10 years.

Other commissioners raised similar concerns, noting that the $26,000 project primarily addresses environmental remediation requirements and does not resolve all of the safety and maintenance issues identified at the playground.

Commissioners nevertheless said the proposal represented progress from what they considered an incomplete plan presented in July.

Houser, who also voted against the $60,000 proposal, said the new recommendation gave her greater confidence that the city was moving in the right direction.

"I didn't vote no because I want to tear it down," Houser said of the earlier proposal. "I felt like there wasn't a plan in place. It was, ‘Let's throw $60,000 at this and hope it works out.’"

Houser said the involvement of Main Street, donated assistance and additional planning made the new proposal more acceptable, although she also wants to see a longer-term strategy addressing which playground components need to be repaired or replaced.

Commissioners also pointed to strong community support for preserving the playground, which was constructed largely through volunteer labor and community donations about 25 years ago.

Foltz said the Aug. 13 meeting demonstrated overwhelming support for keeping the playground and said residents and local businesses have already offered labor and other assistance.

Place said the city bears responsibility for addressing the deterioration after years of insufficient maintenance.

"We dropped the ball, and this is an asset of the city," Place said. "It's our job to pick it back up and fix it."

Commissioners acknowledged that the latest work may only extend the playground's useful life in its current condition for a limited period and said additional repairs and planning will be necessary.

The discussion also comes as the city begins a broader strategic planning process that commissioners hope will help establish priorities for parks, recreation, infrastructure and other future spending.

For now, however, the unanimous vote represents a shift from the divided commission decision in July and keeps the city moving toward preserving the wooden playground while officials determine what comes next.

You may donate online or mail a check to

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

Thank you!

City approves financing for new ambulance after Boyne Valley departure

By Annie Doyle Grove, annie@boynecitizeen.com 

Boyne City will finance nearly $294,000 of its recently approved ambulance purchase over five years as the city prepares to lose two Boyne Valley Township-owned ambulances following the township's decision to leave the Boyne City EMS system.

The Boyne City Commission voted unanimously Tuesday, Aug. 25, to approve an installment purchase agreement for the new ambulance, authorizing a $100,000 down payment and financing the remaining $293,772 through Charlevoix State Bank at 4% interest for 60 months.

Monthly payments will not exceed $4,900.

The financing decision follows the commission's Aug. 11 emergency approval of the $393,772 purchase of a Demers MXP170 ambulance from MacQueen Equipment Group. That purchase came one day after Boyne Valley Township voted unanimously to transition its ambulance service to the Jordan Valley EMS Authority.

Boyne City officials said they received verbal notice Aug. 10 that the city would lose access within 30 days to equipment housed at the Boyne Falls station, including two Boyne Valley Township-owned ambulances.

City Manager Sam Demel told commissioners Tuesday that the township's decision left the city's EMS operation in a difficult position and accelerated the need for another ambulance.

"That had put us at a very dire position," Demel said. "So then, the last meeting, we went ahead and purchased an ambulance, which we needed to."

The financing agreement was structured under Public Act 99 of 1933, which allows municipalities to purchase equipment through installment payments.

Commissioners unanimously supported the financing plan, citing the need to maintain adequate ambulance service while avoiding a large one-time expenditure from EMS and city funds. They also noted the ambulance had already been anticipated in the city's capital planning, although the purchase became necessary sooner than expected.

Mayor Bob Farrell described EMS as an essential city service and said the additional ambulance will provide some breathing room as the department adjusts to the loss of the Boyne Valley equipment.

Boyne City has provided ambulance service since 1971 and advanced life support paramedic-level service since 2004. Farrell also noted that the city's two existing ambulances have between approximately 150,000 and 170,000 miles and are nearing the end of their useful lives.

The latest action comes amid broader changes to the Boyne City EMS interlocal partnership.

Boyne Valley Township's Aug. 10 vote made it the second township this summer to decide to leave the Boyne City system. Bay Township voted in June to seek membership in the Lake Charlevoix Emergency Medical Services Authority, with that transition expected to take effect Jan. 1, 2027.

Boyne City's EMS partnership continues to include Chandler, Evangeline, Eveline, Hudson, Melrose and Wilson townships as city and township officials continue negotiations over past billing discrepancies, future costs and how ambulance service will be funded.

The financing resolution passed unanimously.

Everyone attending our two-year anniversary celebration can take home an "I'm a Boyne Citizen" sticker.

Celebrate Boyne Citizen's second anniversary on Sept. 10 with free coffee, pastries and a sticker

> Press Forward survey results will be revealed

Readers are invited to save the date to “Celebrate the End of the News Desert” and join the Boyne Citizen for free coffee and pastries in honor of our second anniversary. Please join us from 8 to 10 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 10, in the Community Room of the Boyne District Library. We’ll even give everyone who attends an “I’m a Boyne Citizen” sticker for you to stick on your car, shirt, or computer.

As a special feature of the anniversary event at 9 a.m., Elizabeth Jensen, co-chair of Press Forward Northern Michigan, will present highlights of a survey conducted earlier this year. The survey asked residents of the region about their local news and information habits, and what they need to feel better informed about their communities.

Press Forward Northern Michigan is a nonprofit, nonpartisan coalition working to strengthen the Up North region by supporting sustainable models for local news and closing gaps where information is lacking.

Jensen, a longtime journalist and former NPR ombudsman, was a 2025-26 Knight-Wallace Great Lakes Local News Fellow at the University of Michigan, where she researched strategies for strengthening Northern Michigan's local news ecosystem.

Those attending the celebration can also meet our board members, editors and some of our freelance writers. 

It’s been two full years of community-supported nonprofit independent local news coverage since the Boyne Citizen published its first edition on Sept. 3, 2024. Now in August 2026 we are up over 2,500 subscribers, and our 75% open rate is holding steady. 

Most amazingly, more than 500 readers have made a voluntary donation to support our work - even though subscriptions are free.

We can't thank you enough! Our readers and donors have made this possible, so we hope many of you can join us on Sept. 10.

> Make a donation to help keep the Boyne Citizen coming.

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

Boyne City adds 7 teachers for school year

Seven new teachers have joined the Boyne City School District for the school year starting Monday. Two are graduates of Boyne City High School, and four are special education teachers.

Superintendent Pat Little noted that, “Teachers, especially special education teachers that are fully trained and certified, are difficult to find in our region. This hiring class has a significant portion of the special education teachers. All the new hires are of the highest quality, with proven track records of success with students. Each one of them are very excited to join the Rambler community.”

Here are the new hires:

TREVOR DAY is a new middle school special education teacher who is excited to be taking the same position held by his mother Debbie Day for the past 30 years. Trevor graduated from Boyne City High School in 2015 and went on to graduate from Michigan State University.

“I am passionate about helping students grow both academically and socially, building positive relationships, and creating a supportive classroom where every student feels encouraged to learn,” Day said. 

“This summer, my wife and I welcomed a baby girl. Outside of the classroom, I enjoy spending time outdoors camping, running, hiking, biking, swimming, and exploring nature. I can’t wait to get started and give back to the community that I love so much!”

KATIE DAWLEY is also a new middle school special education teacher. She grew up in Gaylord and began her teaching career downstate before she and her husband decided to move back to northern Michigan last year. They have a 3-year-old golden retriever named Luna. 

She earned her master’s degree in Special Education from Central Michigan University and says she is “passionate about helping students learn, grow, and reach their full potential.”

“When I’m not at school, you can usually find me spending time outdoors or making memories with family and friends,” Dawley said.

KARAH PRESTON is the new elementary school special education teacher. She graduated in May from Loyola University of Chicago with a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Special Education and an English as a Second Language endorsement.

Preston was born and raised in DeWitt Michigan near Lansing, and she has been spending summers up north since childhood. 

“I am so grateful to get the opportunity to join the Boyne City community,” she said. “It has been nothing but amazing so far. Outside the classroom I love to walk my dog Kirby, golf, and travel with friends.”

LAUREN SEALS is the new second grade teacher at the elementary school. “As a 2018 Boyne City High School graduate, it is incredibly special to return to my hometown and teach in the community that inspired me to become a teacher,” she said. “I can't wait to meet all the amazing students and families at BCES!”

Seals earned a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education and a Master of Science in Instruction and Curriculum, both at Western Governors University in Salt Lake City, UT. 

For the past three and a half years, Seals has worked at East Jordan Elementary School, where she completed her student teaching in second grade before teaching both Kindergarten and third grade. 

“Those experiences have helped shape me as an educator, and I am excited to bring that experience to my new classroom,” she said.

KENNEDY DANFORTH is the new seventh grade language arts teacher at the middle school. She graduated from Saginaw Valley State University in 2019, with a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education and an endorsement in Language Arts. She continued her professional development in 2023, when she joined TeachMichigan, a Teach for America initiative.

She taught second grade (all subjects) for seven years in Saginaw. Growing up in Northern Michigan, she is excited to be returning to the North. “My passion is to help students find their voice through writing and find their interests through reading,” Danforth said. “In my free time, I do a lot of camping, hiking, reading, and crafting. I have two ferrets, Max and Ruby. They are both equally cute as they are mischievous!”

“Teaching has brought infinite joy to my life! I feel so honored to be able to do my favorite thing (teach) in my favorite place (NoMich)!”

NICOLE LITTLE was hired in August as a part-time preschool special education teacher. She has more than 30 years in special education with a BA from Western Michigan University, MA from Eastern Michigan, and a preschool special education specialist certificate from Western Michigan University.

JOE CANDELA will be the high school’s new lineworker teacher in partnership with Great Lakes Energy. He is from Gaylord, most recently working in New Mexico, with nine years lineman experience. 

Boyne City hires 2 administrators for new school year

Two new administrators have joined the Boyne City School District for the school year starting Monday. Naomi Sponable is the new Elementary School assistant principal, and Kelly Neer is the new director of the Early Learners Preschool program. 

NAOMI SPONABLE is the new Elementary School assistant principal after having served most recently as the K-12 principal at Ellsworth Community School. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree from Kuyper College and then earned my Masters in Counseling from Spring Arbor University, earning her school administrator certificate in 2023. 

Sponable and her husband have lived in Northern Michigan for almost 20 years — moving from the Grand Rapids area to serve at Pleasant Valley Bible Camp in East Jordan. They have three children and a black lab named Levi who acts like a fourth child. 

“In my spare time, I enjoy traveling, reading, fishing, and spending time outdoors in every season,” she said. “I have worked diligently over the years to support students and families in surrounding schools and communities.”

“I am grateful and humbled by the opportunity to join the Boyne City Elementary team and I look forward to building meaningful relationships with students, families, and staff,” Sponable said. “I have a passion for setting students up for success, helping families to thrive, and supporting teachers and staff so that everyone can learn and grow in a positive way, and I am thankful to become part of a community that is so deeply committed to supporting every child.”

KELLY NEER, the new director of the Early Learners Preschool program, brings 27 years of experience in early childhood education to the position, including the past two years as preschool director in East Jordan. A Boyne City resident for the past 25 years, she said she is looking forward to serving families in her own community.

"I am excited to begin this new chapter as the Preschool Director of Early Learners," Neer said. "I am looking forward to getting to know our wonderful children, families and staff."

Neer and her husband, Jeremy, have three sons — Jack, 21, Drew, 18, and Brody, 14. Jack and Drew are Boyne City Public Schools graduates, while Brody will begin his freshman year this fall.

She said she plans to build on the preschool's existing foundation by continuing to provide "a nurturing, engaging and high-quality early childhood experience" for students and families.

Outside of work, Neer enjoys boating and serves as the assistant junior varsity girls basketball coach at Boyne City High School.

Boyne Falls School adds new teachers and a new chef

Boyne Falls Public School has added five and a half new teachers, a new chef and a new paraprofessional for the start of the school year.

Here is a list of the new staff:

• Carolyn Strong, early childhood special education
• Jake Lee, MS/HS social studies and girls varsity basketball coach
• Alison Alger, MS special education
• Devon Hayden, K12 physical education
• Scott Wiltjer, new chef
• Shaylor Duncan, new 5th grade teacher
• Cadie Pung, new paraprofessional
• Kathleen Gray, shared teacher with Vanderbilt Area School - half time with Boyne Falls for elementary art and music

School Superintendent Cynthia Pineda said, “We had a very busy summer improving our district both inside and outside. Our carpets are all new; we repaved our front and back parking lot while adding a paved path to the baseball/softball fields to improve accessibility and paved around the bus garage.”

“We also cleaned and improved our driveway/entry area by adding new shrubbery and plants. Finally, our elementary playground was updated with a newly improved gagaball pit area and a brand-new K-5 playground structure.”

Pineda said the final project that is being wrapped up this week is the turf surface throughout the elementary playground space. “It's going to look great out there and I cannot wait to watch the students enjoy the new playground,” Pineda said.

PRESCHOOL OPEN HOUSE is scheduled for 4-6 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 2, for all children and families attending Boyne Falls Preschool for the 2026–27 school year.

Interested in enrolling? They still have limited space available for 4-year-olds in the tuition-free preschool program. Children must be 4 years old by December 1, 2026, to qualify. Have questions or want to learn more? Contact Preschool Program Director Mitchell Klooster at (231) 549-2211 ext. 30058 or by email at mklooster@boynefalls.org.

> Note: The Boyne Citizen will include pictures and more details about the new staff in next week’s edition.

Scholarship winners included Savannah Kroondyk, at left, and Malorie Carter.



Area students receive $784,000 in scholarships from Charlevoix County Community Foundation

Graduating high school seniors and continuing education students from the region will receive over $784,000 in scholarship funds to help them launch into post-secondary education programs, including university degrees, career skills training, and continuing education programs. 

A total of 79 awards made a difference for 53 unique graduating high school seniors and continuing education students in the nursing and medical field. Of those, more than 40% were multi-year scholarships, which provide financial assistance for students beyond their first year. Scholarship funds were established by local people and groups to honor family members, community leaders, educators, and others who value post-secondary education. Over the past 30 years, C3F has awarded over $5.5 million in support of local students.

Collaborative Academic Scholarship Endowments make it possible to provide more significant financial support for students by pooling available dollars from multiple individual funds at C3F. 

Collaborative Academic Scholarship recipients for 2026 are Benjamin Schultz of Charlevoix, Liliana Snyder of East Jordan, and Malorie Carter of Boyne City. Benjamin had this to say about his award, “Receiving this scholarship means I can pursue my dream of graduating from Michigan’s business school and start my own business without the constant worry of financial stress. With this scholarship I’ll be able to participate in internships or business clubs which push me closer towards my goals instead of having to work somewhere else that slows me down. Thank you for believing in my potential.”

C3F also supported students seeking continuing education in the Medical and Nursing Field. Savannah Kroondyk, who is attending North Central Michigan College, is pursuing her nursing degree right here at home. Savannah said, “Receiving this scholarship means the world to me! It will allow me to focus on my studies in nursing school and not have to worry about the cost of tuition. This is a huge weight lifted off my shoulders; I couldn’t be more grateful. This scholarship will help me reach the goal of becoming a nurse by allowing me to devote my time outside of the classroom to studying, rather than having to work to cover the cost of tuition. I am so thankful for the Charlevoix County Community Foundation, and I am so excited to give back to the community when I become an RN!”

Boyne City scholarships

Boyne City Collaborative Academic Scholarship Endowment

Malorie Carter; $2,900

Casey & Mark Newville Memorial Scholarship

Delaney Little; $1,200

Christy Gill Memorial Scholarship

Mallory Morgan; $800

Frank J. Lamesfield Boyne City Scholarship

• Cambrynne Giem; $63,822
• Katie Hunt; $63,822
• Malorie Carter; $63,822
• Thomas Dobbelaer; $63,822

Henry Lee & Elizabeth C. Lee Educational Endowment Scholarship

• Mallory Morgan; $8,750
• Sophia Eaton; $8,750

Independent Order of Odd Fellows (I.O.O.F.) Vocational Education Scholarship

Timothy Payton; $2,650

Boyne Falls Scholarships

Boyne Falls Polish Festival Memorial Scholarship

Gabriel Bouton; $1,600

Choice Snyder Family Memorial Scholarship

Gabriel Bouton; $900

First Sergeant John D. Juracko Scholarship

Selah Bennett; $1,100

Independent Order of Odd Fellows (I.O.O.F.) Vocational Education Scholarship

Evander Nugent; $2,650

Joe Schwem Memorial Scholarship

Gabriel Bouton; $3,200

Leszek Wasylewski Memorial Scholarship

Selah Bennett; $1,600

Can you help us identify these faces?

Some photographs capture a moment. Others capture a piece of our community’s history.

This week, we’re sharing another vintage photo from the area and asking our readers to become history detectives. Take a good look — you may recognize a neighbor, relative, former classmate, co-worker or friend.

We’re looking for names, dates, places and any stories that might help us identify the people pictured. Don’t worry if you’re not completely certain. Even a good guess or a small clue could help unlock the mystery.

Think you know someone?  The Boyne Heritage Center would like to know!  Send Len a note at Ljd49712@gmail.com. We’ll share what we learn in a future edition.

Together, we can make sure these familiar faces — and the stories behind them — aren’t forgotten.

The mission of the Boyne Heritage Center is to be the expressive living voice and collective memory of those who came before and those who will come after us, stewards of artifacts and an engaged, collaborative historical hub for our region.

Girl Scouts complete Silver Award and year-long Beach Toy Library project

Five members of Boyne City Cadette/Senior Girl Scout Troop 8689 are one step closer to the completion of their Silver Award - the highest honor given in Cadette Girl Scouting. 

Scouts Alexis Jaskowski, Amelia Cameron, Reese Monroe, Cassidy LaBeth, and Madi Wangeman planned and constructed a Beach Toy Library to benefit the children of Boyne City, residents and visitors alike, and installed it at Peninsula Beach, with the dedication taking place on Tuesday, August 25.

The group worked with Joshua Bernthal, Boyne City Parks and Marina Supervisor, to develop its plans for the library.

The girls, all freshmen at Boyne City High School this fall, have been working on this project for over a year with the assistance of project consultant Dave Amato. In addition to Mr. Amato, the Scouts would like to thank Toni Amato and Kevin Hocquard, as well as Homer Williams and Ron Crego of Preston Feather for their support. 

They also expressed their appreciation to their families, as well as the many community members and businesses who donated returnable bottles and cans to help make this Beach Toy Library - and the earning of their Silver Award - a reality.

WLAC announces fall community engagement and education events

The Walloon Lake Association and Conservancy (WLAC) has announced its fall 2026 community engagement and education events schedule, offering residents, visitors, and community members opportunities to learn about the Walloon Lake watershed, explore local natural areas, and participate directly in conservation and stewardship efforts.

The fall schedule includes educational presentations, guided paddles and hikes, stream monitoring, invasive species removal workdays, and family programming. All events are free and open to the public.

“Conservation is most effective when people have opportunities to experience the places they are working to protect,” said Jon Breithaupt, executive director of WLAC. “Our fall schedule gives people a chance to learn from experts, get outside, and contribute directly to the health of Walloon Lake and its watershed. Whether you're interested in fisheries, native plants, wildlife, or hands-on stewardship, there is something for everyone.”



WLAC Summer Speaker Series: Choosing Native Plants for Your Garden - Tuesday, Sept. 1 | 10:00–11:30 a.m. | The Talcott Event Venue. The WLAC Speaker Series continues with Monica Gruler of Gruler Gardens, who will discuss incorporating native plants into residential landscapes. Participants will learn how native plants can support pollinators, improve soil health, and reduce runoff to benefit the Walloon Lake watershed.

Wander Walloon: Guided Wildlife Viewing Paddle -  Saturday, Sept. 12 | 9:00–11:00 a.m. | Jones Landing Township Park. Participants will explore Walloon Lake by kayak, canoe, or standup paddleboard during a guided wildlife viewing paddle near WLAC's Schoof's Creek Nature Area. The program will highlight birds, mammals, and other wildlife that depend on the lake and surrounding watershed.

WLAC Summer Speaker Series: The Walloon Lake Fishery -  Tuesday, Sept. 15 | 5:30–7:00 p.m. | The Talcott Event Venue. WLAC will welcome Heather Hettinger, fish biologist with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, for a presentation on the Walloon Lake fishery. The program will cover fish populations, habitat conditions, and current fisheries management efforts.

> Here is the full schedule.  Visit www.walloon.org/events for additional information.

Hotel Walloon Resort announces the inaugural Autumn Festival Oct. 3-4

Hotel Walloon Resort invites the public to celebrate the beauty of the season during the inaugural Walloon Lake Autumn Festival, taking place Saturday and Sunday, October 3 and 4 in the heart of the Village of Walloon Lake.

Designed to capture the charm and traditions of fall in Northern Michigan, the Autumn Festival will bring together the Walloon Lake community for a weekend filled with live entertainment, seasonal flavors, hands-on activities, and family-friendly experiences. 

Festival highlights include live music performances from The Blitz and Jelly Roll Blues Band, the Taste of Autumn cook-off benefiting Manna Food Project, live wood and pumpkin carvings, an Autumn Market at the Talcott featuring local vendors, seasonal activities for all ages, and more. 

Enjoy live music from The Blitz and Jelly Roll Blues Band, watch live wood and pumpkin carvings, explore the Autumn Market in the Talcott, and savor Oktoberfest specials throughout the weekend. On Sunday, experience the Taste of Autumn cook-off benefiting Manna Food Project, featuring seasonal flavors and local culinary talent.

Attendees can also enjoy Oktoberfest-inspired specials at the Walloon Village General Store and other merchants in the village.

Festival hours are 12-6:30 p.m. Oct. 3 and 12-4 p.m. Oct. 4.

Library Friends to host Pages, Pastries, and Pumpkins harvest celebration

The Friends of the Boyne District Library are hosting a Pages, Pastries, and Pumpkins harvest celebration on Saturday, Sept. 26. They invite the community to join them for “a cozy day of gently used book sales, delicious baked goods, and free pumpkins.”

To make this event a success, the Friends say they need your help. They are looking for donations of homemade baked treats, including: pies, brownies and bars, breads and muffins, cookies, and other favorite specialty baked goods. Here is the online entry form with details. All proceeds directly benefit the library, and donations are tax-deductible.

Items should be dropped off at the library on Friday, Sept. 25 on a non-returnable plate, dish, or other container. Donors are asked to include the ingredient list for allergy purposes. If you have questions, contact Emily Beyne at 702-635-1192 or email at emily.a.ellibee@gmail.com.

> This event is part of the Boyne City Harvest Festival, held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m Saturday, Sept. 26, in downtown Boyne City. 

Library topics: 9/11 film; classic book talk, flying machines

The Boyne District Library is offering a variety of activities for all ages in September. Here are highlights from their latest newsletter:

TOP STORIES

• 9/11: One Day In America
• Mobile Secretary of State
• Classic Book Discussion: Go Tell It On The Mountain, by James Baldwin
• HARVEST FESTIVAL BOOK SALE - Pumpkin painting, bake sale, and more
• Crafts & Arts: Folksy Boxes
• Library closed Sept. 7, Labor Day

KID STUFF

• LEGO Club
• Science Club: FLYING MACHINES!
• Lunch 'n' Learn

BC unleaded gas price up 10 cents; Diesel unchanged

Prices for regular unleaded gas rose 10 cents to $4.39 per gallon, the highest price since June 10, at the Marathon station at 470 N. Lake Street, while diesel increased remained unchanged at $5.49. Here are recent prices spot checked by the Boyne Citizen since the Iran war started on Feb. 28:

• March 3 - $3.099
• March 6 - $3.409
• March 12 - $3.669
• March 21 - $3.999
• March 26 - $4.199
• March 27 - $3.999
• April 6 - $3.899
• April 7 - $4.199
• April 13 - $4.159
• April 15 - $4.099
• April 22 - $3.799
• April 24 -$3.999
• April 29 - $4.299
• May 6 - $4.799
• May 13 - $4.999
• May 20 - $4.919
• May 27 - $4.759
• June 3 - $4.459
• June 10 - $4.459
• June 17 - $4.059
• June 18 - $3.999
• June 25 - $4.299
• July 1 - $4.099
• July 8 - $3.999
• July 15 - $3.999
• July 22 - $4.299
• July 29 - $4.279
• August 5 - $4.299
• August 12 - $4.299/$5.299
• August 19 - $4.299/$5.499
• August 26 - $4.399/$5.499

> Michigan gas price average (AAA) is $4.2098. The national average is $4.086.

News Briefs

COUNTY FAIR OPENS - The 120th annual Emmet-Charlevoix County Fair at the Petoskey Fairgrounds has opened and runs through Sunday August 30. Here is a link to the full fair website plus links to some of the fair highlights: 

• Aug. 24-30 Fair entrance tickets
• Aug. 25-30 Carnival tickets
• Aug. 25-29 Grandstand events
• Aug. 27 Rodeo Night
• Aug. 28 Monster Truck Throwdown
• Aug. 29 Autocross Racing

KIWANIS CAR SHOW - The Kiwanis Club of Boyne City is revving up for another exciting Labor Day Weekend Car Show and invites classic car enthusiasts and the community to join in a weekend of chrome, horsepower, and family fun. The festivities begin during Stroll the Streets on Friday, Sept. 4, with a free Drive-In Preview from 6-9 p.m. in the 100 and 200 blocks of Water Street in downtown Boyne City. The excitement continues on Saturday, Sept. 5, with the Judged Car Show at Veterans Park from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Vehicle registration opens at 8 a.m. Registration is $20 for participants who pre-register through Friday evening, or $25 for day-of registration on Saturday. For more information, to register, or to download a registration form, contact Mike Lalande at 231-622-3876 or visit the Kiwanis Club of Boyne City Facebook page. Register online here.

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 Walloon Lake Boyne City and Boyne Falls:

• Friday, Sept. 18 - Boyne City EMS at City Hall,11 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
• Wednesday, Sept. 23 - Boyne Mountain Resort, 12:30 - 5 p.m.

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

BOYNE AREA SENIOR CENTER is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays and serves daily lunches from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at 411 E Division St, Boyne City. For seniors ages 60+, the lunch donation is $3, for ages 59 and under, $10; and for children 12 and under, $8. Here is the August lunch menu and August activity calendar.

LAKE CHARLEVOIX TEMPERATURE is 72°F as of Wednesday, August 26, according to LakeMonster.com.

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Regional News

From Bridge Michigan, Interlochen Public Radio, and MLive

Petoskey is preparing to go to trial to preserve public access to the Miracle Mile section of the Little Traverse Wheelway trail, pictured here before it collapsed from erosion in 2020. (Courtesy of Top of Michigan Trails Council)



• Petoskey to prepare for trial to protect trail access
• Line 5: Where gubernatorial, AG, senate candidates stand
• Where the Line 5 saga stands today

> This reporting is made possible by the Northern Michigan Journalism Collaborative, led by Bridge Michigan and Interlochen Public Radio, and funded by Press Forward Northern Michigan.

City of Boyne City Municipal News

THEATER FOR SALE - Boyne City Main Street is formally soliciting proposals for the purchase of the historic Boyne Theater property. Details here.

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

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

> City Commission's next regular meeting is at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 8. Agenda page.



Obituaries

Celebration of Life for Jeffrey Dean Belford

Saturday August 29th, 2026

3-7 PM, Veterans Park Pavilion

Jeffrey’s obituary

Mrs. Mary A. (Purkiss) Kerry and her school children standing in front of the white brick Morgan Schoolhouse on the corner of South Park and East Main Streets. Photograph courtesy of the Patrick McCleary collection. 

THROUGH THE HISTORIAN'S LENS

Teacher Mary Ann (Purkiss) Kerry (1850-1908)

By Patrick McCleary, Throughthehistorianslens@gmail.com

The Charlevoix County History Preservation Society

We are reprinting this column from Sept. 4, 2025.

The early Village of Boyne educated its children in a structure that was built on land donated to the village by pioneers Zachary and Mary (Nevitt) Morgan. It was a wood structure that served as both schoolhouse and church home to the early Methodist congregation. It was located on the corner of South Park and East Main Streets. 

After the student community outgrew this one-room structure, it was moved from the corner lot across the street to its present-day location - the church that sits next to the library. In its place, a white brick, four-room schoolhouse was built. It was known as the “Morgan Schoolhouse” due to the generous donation of building materials that the Morgans had again made from their brick yard.

Once completed, however, the question arose as to who would teach. Apparently, there was a shortage of single young women within the small community who were trained to teach. There was, however, Mrs. Mary Ann Kerry. Born in Walton, England in 1850, Mary Perkiss had come to the United States as a young woman and settled at Northport, Michigan. It was there that she became the wife of village blacksmith, George Kerry, in 1873. The young couple moved to Boyne City shortly after their marriage in response to an up-and-coming lumber baron William H. White’s plea for a village blacksmith. Mrs. Kerry was well educated, able to manage children of various ages, had passed her teaching exams earlier in her life, then had her teaching career cut short upon marriage. 

Village forefathers overlooked the fact that she was married, and she was hired to manage not only the children but to supervise the care and upkeep of this entire building. At that time, a schoolhouse of this size and stature was quite an achievement for a village the size of Boyne. However, neither the student count nor the teaching staff ever quite caught up with the space, and only the two lower rooms were used as full-time classrooms. Mrs. Kerry’s classroom was located in the lower left-hand corner. She remained in her teaching position for several years, passing away in 1908. 

The Morgan Schoolhouse, taken shortly after its completion in 1883. Notice the newly planted trees. Photograph courtesy of the Boyne District Library collection. 

> Patrick McCleary is a certified genealogist who has devoted years to the ongoing research and study of Boyne City and Charlevoix County history. In addition to conducting classes on genealogy and family history, he also speaks on a variety of topics. For further information, contact Patrick by email: Throughthehistorianslens@gmail.com.

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

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MUSIC, ARTS, AND ENTERTAINMENT

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

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

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

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

> Youth Bowling League starts Sept. 15. Details.

> Welcome Back Tournament - 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 19. For information call Steve at 231-944-5260, Kim at 231-675-6076, or Mark at 231-675-6633.

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

> Upcoming events, classes and exhibits:

• Plein Art Meet-ups - Tuesdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
• Beginning Drawing Part 2 | September 2, 9, 23, and 30
• Colorful Figures: Expressive Mixed Media | September 10 & 11, 10 am - 4 pm
• Fall Artists Retreat | September 14–18
• Book a Private Art Party
• BAC Kids Morning Makers Class - Sept 19, 10am - Noon
• Alcohol Ink Continue The Flow - Sept 21 & 22, 10 am - 4 pm
• Demo Night- Douglas Barron - Thursday, Sept 24, 6-8 pm
• Watercolor Dreamy Lilacs and more - Sept 28, 10 am - 12:30 pm

BOYNE CITY FARMERS MARKET - Outdoors at Veterans Park, 207 N. Lake Street, Boyne City, from 8 a.m.-12 noon on Wednesdays and Saturdays. (231) 582-9009.

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

• Saturday, August 29 - Amanda Jane
• Wednesday, Sept. 2 - Terry Coveyou
• Saturday, Sept. 5 - Rhett DuCouer
• Wednesday, Sept. 9 - Full Moon Jam Band (Final Wednesday outside)
• Saturday, Sept. 12 - Terry Coveyou
• Wednesday, Sept. 19 - Melissa Welke
• Saturday, Sept. 26 - Harvest Festival (Downtown)
• Wednesday, October 2 - Terry Coveyou
• Saturday, Oct. 10 - Rhett DuCouer (Final Saturday outside)

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

• Mondays - Trivia, 7 p.m.
• Thursdays - Adam and The Cabana Boys, 7-10 p.m.
• Fridays - Josh Raber and Patrick Ryan, 7-10 p.m.
• Saturdays - Adam and The Cabana Boys, 7-10 p.m.

BOYNE DISTRICT LIBRARY - 201 East Main St., Boyne City, 231-582-7861. Newsletter with September 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.

> Oct. 2 & 3 - 17th annual Skitoberbest brings together Oktoberfest tradition, mountain community, and a dose of pre-season winter spirit against the backdrop of northern Michigan fall foliage. Details.

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

> +LIVE MUSIC:

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

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

> LIVE MUSIC:

• Friday, Aug. 28 - Mike Ridley (4-7:30)
• Saturday, Aug. 29 - Chris Calleja (2-6)
• Friday, Sept. 4 - Michelle Chenard (4-7:30)
• Saturday, Sept. 5 - Michelle Chenard (2-6)
• Sunday, Sept. 6 - Chris Calleja (1:30-5)
• Friday, Sept. 11 - Jelly Roll Blues Band (4-7:30)
• Saturday, Sept. 12 - Chris Calleja (2-6)
• Friday, Sept. 18 - Chris Calleja (4-7:30)
• Saturday, Sept. 19 - Two Track Mind (2-6)
• Friday, Sept. 25 - Mike Ridley (4-7:30)
• Saturday, Sept. 26 - Nelson Olstrom (2-6)

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

> LIVE MUSIC, 7-10 p.m.:

• Friday, August 28 - Brett Mitchell
• Saturday, August 29 - Pete Kehoe
• Friday, Sept. 4 - Lavender Lions Duo
• Saturday, Sept. 5 - Sean Bielby
• Friday, Sept. 11 - Brett Mitchell
• Saturday, Sept. 12 - Pete Kehoe
• Friday, Sept. 18 - Sean Bielby
• Saturday, Sept. 19 - Pete Kehoe
• Friday, Sept. 25 - Chris Calleja
• Saturday, Sept. 26 - Chris Calleja

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.

• September 5-13 - Come From Away. The remarkable true story of when the world came together. Tickets.

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

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

• Aug. 22 - Damn Tall Buildings
• Sept. 19 - Sionainn Laoi for the Boyne Heritage Center

> Pre-show Local Ground concerts line-up.

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

> Karaoke Night - every Wednesday, 9-11:59 p.m.

> Live music and events:

• Friday, August 28 - Live music with SAXU4IA, 6-9 p.m.
• Monday, Aug. 31 - Lit With Literature: Rites Of The Starling by Devney Perry, 7-9 p.m.
• Friday, Sept. 4 - Live Music with Lou Thumser, 6-9 p.m.
• Friday, Sept. 11 - Dragon Rider Block Party, 6-11 p.m. with live music by the Lavender Lions Duo from 7-10 p.m.
• Monday, Sept. 21 - Lit with Literature: Heat Of The Everflame By Penn Cole, 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. 

> Check their Facebook page for schedule.

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

> Sept. 17 and the third Thursday of the month - Open Mic & Stand-up hosted by Peter Allen Jensen, 6-9 p.m.

> Live music 6-9pm:

• Saturday, August 28 - Dan Casula
• Friday, August 29 - Nelson Olstrom
• Friday, Sept. 4 Friday - Nelson Olstrom
• Saturday, Sept. 5 Friday - Andy Kline
• Friday, Sept. 11 - Sean Miller
• Saturday, Sept. 12 - Sean Miller
• Friday, Sept. 25 - Keith Scott
• Saturday, Sept. 26 - Andy Kline

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

Live music:

• Tuesdays - Laura Crowe, 6-9 p.m. except Sept. 8, when we are closed. 
• Wednesdays - Pete Kehoe, 6-9 p.m.except Sept. 9, when we are closed.
• Sunday, August 30 & Sept. 6 - Nick Visconti, 1-4 p.m.

The Boyne Citizen

Jim Baumann, Editor

About our nonprofit organization

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

Email: jim@boynecitizen.com

Phone: 231-675-8793

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