|
After generating a spectacular sunset Tuesday evening, smoke from Canada has turned thick and all but blanked out the Sun yesterday. Forecasts from Canadian authorities show little relief in sight until sometime Saturday afternoon, but experts say that could change. Most of the smoke is coming from a line of wildfires northwest of the westerner end Lake Superior that the Canadians class as out of control. They’ve driven the W-V-B-I air quality sensor to never-before-seen levels. 596 was the reading this morning at 6:20, that after a peak of over 750 overnight. There are readings on the mainland coming in at near 800 as we go to air. Today’s script online has some maps showing animated smoke forecasts as well as regional A-Q-I readings. The current particulate levels constitute an emergency condition with all persons expected to be affected within 24 hours of exposure. Health officials suggest remaining indoors as much as possible, and experts suggest shutting off air exchange systems that are common in newer homes. Image from firesmoke.ca showing projected smoke cover at 6:00 this evening. Click the image to see an animated version of the forecast. Image capture from firesmoke.ca
Air Quality sensor map from PurpleAir shows dangerously the poor air quality spread across Minnesota, Wisconsin and Michigan with degraded AQI to the east. Image from WVBI PurpleAIr Sensor report
Meantime, four Michigan Republican U-S Congress members are pressing Canada to take stronger action against wildfires. Representatives Jack Bergman, John James, Lisa McClain and John Moolenaar sent a letter to Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, saying years of promises have produced little progress on forest management and wildfire prevention. The lawmakers say the U.S. may need to explore greater cross-border involvement in fuel reduction and firefighting if conditions don’t improve. There’s a link to their letter in today’s script online. https://bergman.house.gov/uploadedfiles/canadian_wildfires_summer_2026.pdf
State regulators have approved two major permits for Enbridge’s proposed Line 5 tunnel beneath the Straits of Mackinac, clearing the way for what is expected to be a federal approval by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in the coming weeks. The announcement could hardly come at a worse time, as smoke from Canadian wildfires continues to create unhealthy air quality across Michigan, highlighting the broader debate over fossil fuels and climate. Enbridge still needs a renewed state wastewater discharge permit, with a decision expected by September 30, and the project remains tied up in multiple state and federal court cases that could ultimately determine whether the tunnel—or even the existing Line 5 pipeline—can move forward.
The existing Line 5 petroleum pipeline under the Straits. The tunnel project would replace it with a line encased in a tunnel that proponents say would help contain any line ruptures. Image capture from video provided by Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy via BridgeMI
Over in Charlevoix, the bridge was not operating last evening due to overheating issues. The fire department was spraying water on it to cool it down. Charlevoix County Emergency Services says operation will be intermittent, but it was operating (and open) at 8:30 this morning.
Water is sprayed on the bridge in Charlevoix to cool it down last evening. Image from CharlevoixCam via Facebook
Spotted knapweed is beginning to bloom on Beaver Island, and invasive species experts say now is the best time to remove it before it goes to seed. A single plant can produce hundreds to more than a thousand seeds, which may remain viable in the soil for up to eight years. The Michigan Invasive Species Program recommends pulling or digging plants before seeds develop, making sure to remove as much of the taproot as possible while wearing gloves to protect against skin irritation.
Quilters are invited to enter the fourth annual Beaver Island Quilt Show at the Beaver Island Studio and Gallery. Quilts of all styles and skill levels are welcome. The show runs August 13th through 15th, with quilt drop-off scheduled for August 11th and 12th. Contact Linda McDonough or Lois Stipp to reserve space. |
|
Now here’s a look at upcoming events on your Emerald Isle…
First your meeting planner…
A-A meets Thursday and Saturday, at 6:00 at the Christian Church. Emergency Services Authority meets at 2:00 on Thursday. And, the J-TAC and library board both have meetings set for Thursday afternoon at 4:30. Locations and more details are in the calendar entries online. That’s it on the meeting front through the end of the week.
On the fun front today…
Thursday, there’s Pickleball at Peaine Township Park at 9:00. The COA has a double feature at Peaine Twp Hall — Cardio Drumming at 10:00 and Art Therapy at 11:00. Meanwhile, there’s Women’s Bible Study at 10:00 a.m. at the BI Christian Church and at 10:30, there’s Senior Tai Chi at the BIC Center. At 11:00, the Museum Week Art Show opens up at the G-F-C. It runs to 4:00. At noon in-town Music Festival mini concerts start with Chris Winelman at the Wild Strawberry Café. At 1:00, Gooseberry will play upstairs in the Hangout at the BIC Center with the performance broadcast live on W-V-B-I. At 2:00, Dave & Krisit play at Dady Franks. At 5:00 the main stage comes alive at the Music Festival Grounds with The Legal Immigrants with non-stop music until midnight with Hymn for Her wrapping up the night. At 7:00, the Historical Society has another Incredible Islanders Night with a look at Native American Fisherman on the Island, part 2. And, Thursday evenings are Burger and a Beer Night at the Shamrock.
Friday, kicks off early with Omelette on the air from the Wild Strawberry on WKLT with Music Festival coverage. There’s Senior and Vets Coffee and Donuts from 8:30 to 10:30 in the Welcome Center at the BIC Center, plus Chair Strength Training up in the Hangout at 9:30. Also at 9:30, there’s Summer Yoga in the Theater. And at 10:00 A-M Pickleball Outdoors on the Peaine Township courts. At noon. Music Festival mini-concerts continue with Charlsee & Cam at the Wild Strawberry and Sweet Megg up in the Hangout a the BIC Center live on W-V-B-I. At 2:00, Chris Winkleman plays at Whiskey Point Brewing Company. At 4:00, the Music Festival Stage comes alive on the Festival Grounds with The Legal Immigrants again kicking off the fun that will run non-stop until Midnight with Aqua Cherry last to the stage. There’s a full schedule for the Festival in today’s script online.
[On the radio, Kick off your weekend with our fantastic Friday lineup! After the 6:00pm news, enjoy “That Thing with Rich Appel” featuring top forty hits from the 70s. At 9:00pm, tune into “The Titus Jennings Experience” offering music from all genres, followed by “The Midnight Special” with Marilyn Rea Beyer at 11:00pm for music, farce comedy, and late-night escape.]
Saturday, starts off with the Dave & Kristi performing for the Breakfast Club on the Festival Grounds. The Artisan’s Market is on at the Point starting at 10:00. Tyler Gitchel plays at the Beachcomber at noon. South for the Winter is at Dady Franks at 1:00 and Hymn for Her is in the Hangout at the BIC Center live on W-V-B-I at 1:00 as well. The Festival Main Stage comes alive at 2:00 with an hour of Open Mic and non-top music starts at 3:00 with Dave & Kristi. Gooseberry is last up at 11:00 Saturday night. And Saturday nights are Prime Rib Night at the Shamrock.
[On the radio, tune in for Country Classics at 5:00 Saturday evening with host Sheri Timsak. At 7:00, take a trip back to the best of the 80s and 90s with the Mix Tape show (that’s a 120-minute TDK cassette tape for those in the know) hosted by WVBI’s Adam Pettigrew. Mark Beltaire takes over at 9:00 with Rockin’ the Boat and continues at 10:00 with the Blues Cruise. Cousin Dan wraps up the evening with the Too Good Radio Show starting at 11:00.]
Sunday, there are services at the Episcopal Mission at 9:00 and at the Christian Church at 10:00. Mass is at Holy Cross at 12:15. And the Amik Cultural Center is open 1 to 3 PM. Sunday evening, Dave & Kristi play at the Beachcomber at 8:00.
The Beaver Island Music Festival has a bursting schedule of music you can hear at many locations on the Island. Image from Beaver Island Music Festival at bimf.net
Looking ahead to highlights for next week…
Monday, at 9:30, summer yoga is on at the BIC Center. It’ll be a session on Basic Flow. COA has Cardio Drumming at 10:00 and Art Therapy at 11:00 at Peaine Township Hall. At 10:00, the first day of the Historical Society Kids Camp kicks off with a day of Tie Dyeing. At the library, the Senior Digital Social Café with Greg Doig is at 11:00. Also, at 11:00, there’s Summer Therapeutic Chair Yoga at the BIC Center. And Monday Funday at the BIC Center is an evening of magic. Trino and Aerial Ashley will be on stage for a Magic Night Out. Tickets are at tickets dot bic center dot org. And, don’t forget, Monday evenings are All You Can Eat Pizza and Salad night at the Beachcomber.
Tuesday, the Historical Society Kid’s Camp continues with Team Day. Campers compete with human tic-tac-toe or checkers. Camp starts at 10:00. At 9:00 there is Pickleball on the Peaine Township Courts. At 9:30, there’s Chair Strength Training up in the Hangout at the BIC Center. At 10:00, Babes & Toddlers mix it up at the library. At 5:00, there’s a National Security Seminar with Tom Ehrhard at the BIC Center. There’s lots going on in the world. Here’s a chance to talk with an expert about what might be next.
Wednesday, there’s Summer Restorative Yoga BIC Center at 9:30. At 10:00 there’s American Mah Jongg at the BIC Center in the Hangout, and at 1:00 there is Afternoon Bingo. Protar’s House will be open from 1:00 to 4:00. At 4:00 the Amik Cultural Preservation Center will be open to the public with a member of the Amik Circle Society present for tours and discussions. And Wednesday evening is a special night of horror at the BIC Center with two recent get-you-thinking horror blockbusters on the BIG SCREEN with the BIC Center’s BIG SOUND. At 6:00, its Obsession. Be careful what you wish for. And, at 8:00 its Nackrooms. Be careful where you look. Both are rated R. |
|
Those are the highlights. Find a full listing of events at calendar dot W-V-B-I dot net. |
|
|
|
On our Birthday List today are Debbie Robert, Roger Lear, Angie Wojan, Sabrina Kenwabikise and Tyler Belfy. Happy Birthday to Sabrina, Angie, Deb, Tyler and Roger, and if we missed you on the list, Happy Birthday to you too from everyone at the BIC Center and WVBI. |
|
TRAFFIC: No delays inbound or outbound to the airports. The Island Beltway is running smoothly with no bridge delays. Still some heavy truck traffic coming up and down West Side Drive, and there is some project paving still ongoing with heavy equipment moving around. So, let’s be careful out there especially in town when the ferries arrive. |
|
On this date in 1776, the Continental Congress gives General George Washington broader authority to direct the defense of New Jersey as British forces mass around New York, strengthening the American response during the Revolution. And in 1969, Apollo 11 lifts off from Kennedy Space Center, beginning the mission that lands the first humans on the Moon four days later. |
|
Our Merriam Webster Word of the Day is bibelot (noun) [BEE-buh-loh]. A bibelot is a small decorative object or household ornament—a trinket, knickknack or keepsake displayed more for its charm than its usefulness. The word comes from French and first appears in English in 1873 in the writings of Lady Charlotte Guest, who used it to describe “our little bibelots” while visiting Paris. |
|
Now, to wrap up for this Beaver Island Thursday… |
|
Here’s a thought for the day from Duke Ellington: “Gray skies are just clouds passing over.” |
|
On a lighter note… Did you know the brain is 40% AI. The rest is BRN. |
|
That’s the W-V-B-I Community Calendar Report for this Beaver Island Thursday, July 16th, 2026. I’m Kevin Boyle reporting from W-V-B-I’s Langford Family Studios wishing you a great day: why not go ahead and make today the best day ever? And thanks for listening. |
|
### |
|
WEATHER |
|
[Current Condition Report, then…] |
|
Today Widespread smoke. Partly sunny, with a high near 71 by the water and 82 inland. West wind 5 to 10 mph. Tonight Widespread smoke, mainly before midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 65. Northwest wind 5 to 10 mph becoming northeast after midnight. Friday A 40 percent chance of showers, mainly between 11am and 5pm. Widespread smoke, mainly after 3pm. Partly sunny, with a high near 71/81. East wind around 10 mph. Friday Night A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms, then showers and possibly a thunderstorm after 8pm. Widespread smoke, mainly between 7pm and 8pm. Low around 65. Southeast wind 10 to 15 mph becoming southwest after midnight. Chance of precipitation is 90%. Saturday Showers and possibly a thunderstorm before 8am, then a chance of showers between 8am and 2pm. High near 79/82. Breezy, with a northwest wind 15 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80%. Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 61. Sunday Sunny, with a high near 79/82. Sunday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 66. Monday Showers likely, mainly after 2pm. Partly sunny, with a high near 77/81. Breezy. Monday Night Showers likely, mainly before 2am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 62. Breezy. Tuesday A chance of showers. Mostly sunny, with a high near 75/77. Breezy. Tuesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 60. Breezy. Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 75/77. |
|
|
|
Air Quality Index at 6:21am was 596. |
|
Fire Danger: High |
|
Out on the Big Drink…
Photo from the North Lake Michigan Buoy. Provided by the National Data Buoy Center |
|
Today NW wind 5 to 10 kt becoming W in the afternoon. Patchy smoke. Waves 1 ft or less. Friday Variable winds 5 kt or less. A chance of showers, mainly between 1pm and 4pm. Waves 1 ft or less. Saturday W wind 15 to 20 kt becoming NNW in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 30 kt. A chance of showers and thunderstorms before 10am, then a chance of showers between 10am and 1pm. Waves 2 to 3 ft. Sunday Variable winds 5 kt or less. Sunny. Waves 1 ft or less. Monday SW wind 20 to 25 kt, with gusts as high as 35 kt. Showers likely. Waves 3 ft building to 6 ft. |
|
Water Temps: 71 at the mid-lake buoy southwest of Gull Island and in the Straits. 73 at Sleeping Bear and 72 in Little Traverse Bay. |
|
|
|
Coming up in our Community Calendar Report…
Smoke from Canadian wildfires has driven Beaver Island’s air quality to the worst levels ever recorded on the WVBI sensor, with emergency conditions expected to continue into Saturday. We’ll tell you where the smoke is coming from, what health officials recommend, and why Michigan’s congressional delegation is demanding Canada do more to prevent these massive fires. Plus, the Line 5 tunnel project clears two more major regulatory hurdles, and we’ll have an update on the overheating Charlevoix drawbridge and why now is the time to pull spotted knapweed before it goes to seed.
Those stories, more local news, a run-down of local events, birthdays and more after this global and national news from F-S-N. [Time check.] |
|
Today’s featured image: Image from firesmoke.ca showing projected smoke cover at 6:00 this evening. Click the image to see an animated version of the forecast. Image capture from firesmoke.ca |
|
|
