Contrary to rumors circulating around town, White Pine Lodge in Christmas will remain open.

The 48-room hotel, which includes a 24-hour convenience store and gas station, is owned and operated by the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians.

The Sault Tribe purchased White Pine Lodge in 2020.

Changes are underway, according to the tribe, but a closure of the hotel is not one of them.

The convenience store will discontinue gasoline sales and is re-evaluating its merchandise lineup. Beer, wine, liquor and cigarettes will continue to be sold.

The news surprised some local residents, particularly because the gas station has historically offered fuel and tobacco discounts to tribal members.

A representative from White Pine Lodge said White Pine leadership is working with the Shell station in Munising to ensure discounted fuel sales will still be available to tribal members after fuel sales end at White Pine.

When the details for the new fuel discount program are determined, they will be posted publicly.