WVBI

Michigan’s record outbreak of cyclosporiasis continues to grow, with reported cases jumping nearly 78 percent over the past week to more than 7,600. While six northern Michigan counties have now reported their first cases, the vast majority of illnesses remain concentrated downstate. Wayne County leads with more than 1,200 cases, followed by Washtenaw, Oakland and Ingham. Health officials say the best protection is to wash fresh produce thoroughly and practice good hand hygiene.

President Donald Trump returns to Michigan Monday for an appearance at General Motors’ Milford Proving Ground, where the White House says he’ll discuss the economy and manufacturing. The visit comes just one day before Tuesday’s Michigan primary election. Polls on Beaver Island will be open from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m.

Our skies were mostly clear of smoke yesterday with some haze developing at the end of the day. Forecasters say today will be clear and tomorrow as well until early evening when some light haze will move in. It will clear by morning, but come back midday on Sunday…but nothing like what we saw last week is in the forecast.

The Beaver Island Dark Sky Project has a moon viewing planned for this evening at 6:30 at the Harbour Market. Moonrise is at 6:38. Bring some snacks to enjoy while you watch the waxing gibbous moon come up over Paradise Bay.

The latest episode of The Tides That Tie, highlighting performers coming to this year’s Beaver Island Irish Feile, is now online. This installment features The Kreellers, a Detroit-based Celtic roots rock band blending traditional Irish music with a modern rock sound. Band member Paul Wikarski says no two festival performances are ever the same, with crowd interaction helping shape every show. You’ll find a link to the latest episode in today’s script online.

https://www.biihg.com/podcast-the-tides-that-tie/

The C-O-A has a change up in hours starting next week. Monday and Thursday they’ll be open 9:00 to 9:30 and noon to 2:00. Tuesday and Friday, 9:00 to 11:00 and noon to 2:00. Wednesday noon to 2:30. Activities at Peaine Township Hall will not be held, so no Cardio Drumming or Art Therapy. The new hours will run through August 14th with regular hours and activities resuming on August 17th.

If you are headed across, remember that the Venetian Festival is on in Charlevoix. Main street through town is closed with detours taking traffic on State Street.  There’s a map in today’s script online.

US-31 is closed in downtown Charlevoix. Plan for traffic delays there if you head across. Image from City of Charlevoix via Facebook

Now here’s a look at upcoming events on your Emerald Isle…

First your meeting planner…

Peaine Township Planning Commission has meets today at 9:00 in the morning at the township hall. A-A meets Saturday at 6:00. Next week A-A meets Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday at 6:00.

On the fun front today…

Friday, 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. And, at 11:00, the Rita Gillespie Memorial Blood Drive gets underway at the G-F-C.  Every year, almost, the Island does better than the last. Help make that true by signing up to give the gift of life at versiti dot org slash M-I. That’s V-E-R-S-I-T-I dot org slash M-I.

[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, the Artisan’s Market is on at the Point starting at 10:00. Saturday night, Baroque on Beaver concerts launch with their Opening Night Benefit this year featuring Island favorite Martha Guth with Erika Switzer and Andrea Yun. They’ll perform a selection of Schubert songs alongside contemporary works including the recently commissioned Love, Loss, and Exile by Juhi Bansal. Showtime is 7:30. Tickets are at tickets dot bic center dot org. 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.

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 11:00, there’s Summer Therapeutic Chair Yoga at the BIC Center. Baroque on Beaver events continue with Brass on the Grass out at Whiskey Point. Bring a chair and something to enjoy with music from the Great American Songbook. Then at 7:30, get a taste of the latest in classical music with New & Next on stage at the BIC Center. Brass on the Grass is a free-will donation event. Tickets for New & Next 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, 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. Baroque on Beaver continues with Chamber Music Waterside at the C-M-U Biological Station. Tickets are at tickets dot bic center dot org.

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. Also at 4:00 the Amik Cultural Preservation Center will be open. Wednesday evening Baroque heads out to C-M-U for Chamber Music Waterside. Journey through centuries of music in one unforgettable evening — from the elegance of Telemann to the vibrant contemporary sounds of Michael Torke. Showtime is 7:30. Tickets are at tickets dot bic center dot org.

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 1:00, Baroque on Beaver continues with Music al Fresco at the Beaver Island Gallery featuring the Donegal Bay Winds. At 3:00, Whiskey Point Brewing Company comes alive with jazz with the St. James Jazz Ensemble playing there a spart of Baroque. And at 7:30 it’s the Baroque on Beaver Founders Concert at the Biological Station featuring Vox G-R. Chamber Music al Fresco is open to all with a free-will donation. Tickets are necessary for the St. James Jazz Ensemble and Vox G-R. Get them and make donations at tickets dot bic center dot org. And, Thursday evenings are Burger and a Beer Night at the Shamrock.

Those are the highlights. Find a full listing of events at calendar dot W-V-B-I dot net.

Today’s BIC Center Name of the Day is George. If that’s your name, come on in to the BIC Center today to pick out a free drink of your choice.

On our Birthday List today are John Jannson and Avery Gerace [jehr-ACE].  Happy Birthday to Avery and John, 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 1847, Brigham Young and the first company of Mormon pioneers entered the Salt Lake Valley after their 1,300-mile trek west. Earlier, Young had been part of the same Latter-day Saint movement as James Strang, but the two backed different successors after Joseph Smith’s death. Young led most followers west to Utah, while Strang gathered his supporters in Wisconsin before eventually establishing his headquarters here on Beaver Island, where he crowned himself king in 1850. Also on this date, in 1969, Apollo 11 splashed down safely in the Pacific Ocean, bringing Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin and Michael Collins home after humanity’s first landing on the Moon—ending one of the greatest voyages in American history.

James Strang and Brigham Young lead Mormon settlers in different directions. One was more successful. The other picked a prettier place. Photos from Wikimedia

Our Merriam Webster Word of the Day is maverick (noun) [MAV-rik]. A maverick is someone who thinks and acts independently, refusing to follow the crowd or the usual rules. You might call an inventor with unconventional ideas a maverick, or a politician who regularly breaks with their own party. The word has a uniquely American origin. In the 1800s, Texas rancher Samuel Maverick refused to brand his cattle. As a result, any unbranded cow came to be known as a maverick, and before long the word was applied to people who wouldn’t be “branded” by convention or expected ways of thinking.

Now, to wrap up for this Beaver Island Friday…

Here’s a thought for the day from Brigham Young: “Remember, a chip on the shoulder is a sure sign of wood higher up.”

On a lighter note…

What do you call an astronaut that lifts weights?

Neil Armstrong.

That’s the W-V-B-I Community Calendar Report for this Beaver Island Friday, July 24th, 2026. I’m Kevin Boyle reporting from W-V-B-I’s Langford Family Studios wishing you a great day and asking you: why not go ahead and make today the best day ever? And thanks for listening. 

###

WEATHER

[Current Condition Report, then…]

Today

Sunny, with a high near 72 at the beach and 78 in the woods. Southwest wind 10 to 15 mph.

Tonight

Mostly clear, with a low around 66. Southwest wind 10 to 15 mph.

Saturday

A chance of showers, with thunderstorms also possible after 5pm. Partly sunny, with a high near 72/82. Breezy, with a southwest wind 15 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph. Chance of precipitation is 30%.

Saturday Night

A chance of showers and thunderstorms before 11pm, then a chance of showers between 11pm and 2am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 64. Southwest wind 5 to 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 40%.

Sunday

A slight chance of showers between 2pm and 5pm, then a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms after 5pm. Partly sunny, with a high near 77/86. Southwest wind 5 to 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20%.

Sunday Night

Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm between 8pm and 2am, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 66. Chance of precipitation is 60%.

Monday

A chance of showers, with thunderstorms also possible after 2pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 77/87. Chance of precipitation is 50%.

Monday Night

A chance of showers and thunderstorms before 8pm, then a chance of showers between 8pm and 2am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 64.

Tuesday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 76/80.

Tuesday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 62.

Wednesday

Sunny, with a high near 76/80.

Wednesday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 65.

Thursday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 77/81.

Air Quality Index at 7:22am was 33.

Fire Danger: Moderate

Out on the Big Drink…

Photo from the North Lake Michigan Buoy. Provided by the National Data Buoy Center

Today

SW wind around 10 kt. Sunny. Waves around 1 ft.

Saturday

SSW wind 15 to 20 kt, with gusts as high as 30 kt. Partly sunny. Waves around 3 ft.

Sunday

Variable winds 5 kt or less. A slight chance of showers between 1pm and 4pm, then a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms after 4pm. Waves 1 ft or less.

Monday

WSW wind around 10 kt. A chance of showers, with thunderstorms also possible after 1pm. Waves 1 ft or less.

Tuesday

N wind around 10 kt. Mostly sunny. Waves around 1 ft.

Water Temps: 61 at the mid-lake buoy southwest of Gull Island. 68 at Sleeping Bear and in the Straits, and 69 in Little Traverse Bay.

 Photos from webcams at wvbi.net and mackinacbridge.org

Coming up in our Community Calendar Report…

Michigan’s record outbreak of cyclosporiasis continues to grow, but most cases remain downstate. President Trump returns to Michigan Monday ahead of Tuesday’s primary. We’ll also check the latest smoke forecast, tell you about tonight’s Dark Sky moon viewing, a new Feile podcast featuring The Kreellers, changes at the C-O-A next week, and traffic impacts if you’re headed to Charlevoix for the Venetian Festival.

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: The BIC Center/WVBI Summer Gala is fast approaching. The Auction catalog is available online as are tickets. Visit tickets.biccenter.org. Graphic from BIC Center

From Lansing, a bipartisan effort to encourage construction of smaller apartment buildings is now law in Michigan. Our rep Parker Fairbairn sponsored one of two House bills in the package, while Democratic Representative Stephen Wooden sponsored the companion measure. The legislation passed with broad bipartisan support, including a yes vote from State Senator John Damoose. It allows qualifying apartment buildings to be built with a single staircase if they meet tougher fire safety standards, a change supporters say could reduce construction costs and encourage more housing.

#Housing

Our skies were clear of smoke yesterday, mostly, and that looks to be the case for today as well. The A-Q-I this morning was 18 with the air quality also good state-wide. We could see some haze return tomorrow mid-day.

#Environment

The smoke forecast shows clear skies for us through midday tomorrow when some light haze might return. Image capture from firesmoke.ca

The new asphalt is down at the St. James Township Government Center, but you’ll have to wait a few more days to use it. The parking lot remains closed through Sunday to allow the pavement to cure and is expected to reopen Monday, July 27.

#Roads

Smoke free skies and a freshly paved parking lot at the St. James Governmental Center. No more trapsing through the mud to meetings. Photo by Bobbi Welke provided by St. James Township on Facebook

The Little Traverse Conservancy has broken ground on its new headquarters. The Malcolm Center, at the Offield Family Viewlands, will serve as both the conservancy’s home and a community gathering place. Officials say the organization has grown from protecting 1,400 acres with two employees to conserving nearly 84,000 acres. The project also launches a fundraising campaign, with gifts to the center being matched dollar for dollar.

#RegionalNews

Today we wrap up our look at the candidates seeking their party’s nomination for Michigan’s First Congressional District in the August 4 primary. On the Republican side, Justin Michal of Grayling is an Army veteran and entrepreneur making his first run for Congress. He says his campaign focuses on veterans, government accountability, border security and reducing federal spending. Michal has kept a lower public profile than his opponents and did not respond to several media candidate questionnaires. On the Democratic side, Wayne Stiles of Traverse City is an industrial designer and small business owner. He says he wants to bring a problem-solving approach to Washington, with priorities that include expanding rural health care, strengthening telehealth and broadband, protecting the Great Lakes, and pursuing immigration reform while supporting democracy and fiscal responsibility.

Voters will choose one Republican and one Democrat in the August 4 primary, with the winners advancing to the November general election. Polls open next Tuesday at 7:00 and will close at 8:00. Interlochen public Radio has an in-depth profile of the Republican and Democrat candidates in the primary for the First District seat. There’s a link to that in today’s script online.

https://www.interlochenpublicradio.org/michigans-1st-congressional-district/2026-07-19/your-vote-your-district-these-6-people-want-to-represent-northern-michigan-in-congress

#StatePolicy #NationalPolicy #Election2026

A grain freighter that ran aground Tuesday on the St. Clair River near Sarnia is back underway. The 740-foot Algoma Equinox was refloated Wednesday afternoon with assistance from tugs. The Canadian Coast Guard says there were no injuries, no pollution and no reported damage to the vessel.

#MaritimeNews

A Novi man is recovering after being bitten by a rare eastern massasauga rattlesnake at Proud Lake Recreation Area. He was hospitalized in Ann Arbor for antivenom treatment.

#Healthcare

Finally, a reminder that a  Go-Fund-Me campaign is underway to help the family of Kim Connaghan Jones as she recovers from emergency surgery following a ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm. There’s a link in today’s script online.

#Community
https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-support-the-kim-connaghan-jones-family?attribution_id=sl:270d7341-4d20-46a2-b8d2-80f8d3222710&lang=en_US&ts=1784232254

Now here’s a look at upcoming events on your Emerald Isle…

First your meeting planner…

A-A meets tonight and Saturday at 6:00. Today and Friday the Peaine Township Planning Commission has meetings at 9:00 in the morning at the township hall.

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. Baroque on Beaver kicks off with Drinks, Desert and Discussion with Festival Music Director Robert Nording now at the Beaver Island Callery rather than the Print Shop. Things get underway at 7:30. Tickets are at tickets dot bic center dot org. And, Thursday evenings are Burger and a Beer Night at the Shamrock.

There’s been a venue change for Drinks, Desert & Discussion with Robert Nordling. The event has moved to the Beaver Island Gallery. Image from Baroque on Beaver on Facebook

Highlights for the rest of the week include…

Friday, 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. And, at 11:00, the Rita Gillespie Memorial Blood Drive gets underway at the G-F-C.  Every year, almost, the Island does better than the last. Help make that true by signing up to give the gift of life at versiti dot org slash M-I. That’s V-E-R-S-I-T-I dot org slash M-I.

[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, the Artisan’s Market is on at the Point starting at 10:00. Saturday night, Baroque on Beaver concerts launch with their Opening Night Benefit this year featuring Island favorite Martha Guth with Erika Switzer and Andrea Yun. They’ll perform a selection of Schubert songs alongside contemporary works including the recently commissioned Love, Loss, and Exile by Juhi Bansal. Showtime is 7:30. Tickets are at tickets dot bic center dot org. 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.

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 11:00, there’s Summer Therapeutic Chair Yoga at the BIC Center. Baroque on Beaver events continue with Brass on the Grass out at Whiskey Point. Bring a chair and something to enjoy with music from the Great American Songbook. Then at 7:30, get a taste of the latest in classical music with New & Next on stage at the BIC Center. Brass on the Grass is a free-will donation event. Tickets for New & Next 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, 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. Baroque on Beaver continues with Chamber Music Waterside at the C-M-U Biological Station. Tickets are at tickets dot bic center dot org.

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. Also at 4:00 the Amik Cultural Preservation Center will be open. at 1:00, Baroque on Beaver continues with Music al Fresco at the Beaver Island Gallery featuring the Donegal Bay Winds. At 3:00, Whiskey Point Brewing Company comes alive with jazz with the St. James Jazz Ensemble playing there a spart of Baroque. And at 7:30 it’s the Baroque on Beaver Founders Concert at the Biological Station featuring Vox G-R. Music al Fresco is open to all with a free-will donation. Tickets are necessary for the St. James Jazz Ensemble and Vox G-R. Get them and make donations at tickets dot bic center dot org.

Those are the highlights. Find a full listing of events at calendar dot W-V-B-I dot net.

Today’s BIC Center Name of the Day is Alice. If that’s your name, come on in to the BIC Center today to pick out a free drink of your choice.

On our Birthday List today are Lindsay Gorlewski, Levi Connor and Aria Halpin.  Happy Birthday to Aria, Lindsay and Levi, 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 1775, George Washington arrives at Cambridge to take command of the Continental Army. And in 1903, Ford sells its first automobile—the original Model A. Built in a small wooden factory on Detroit’s Mack Avenue, the two-seat runabout costs $750. Henry Ford has just $224 left in the bank, but within months his new company is profitable.

A magazine ad for the Model A from December of 1903. Note that the price has increased to $800 ($900 with a roof) and that lamps, horn and brass trim are all extra. No indication of whether they were included in the Platinum trim level. Image from Wikimedia

Our Merriam Webster Word of the Day is maverick (noun) [MAV-rik]. A maverick is someone who thinks and acts independently, refusing to follow the crowd or the usual rules. You might call an inventor with unconventional ideas a maverick, or a politician who regularly breaks with their own party. The word has a uniquely American origin. In the 1800s, Texas rancher Samuel Maverick refused to brand his cattle. As a result, any unbranded cow came to be known as a maverick, and before long the word was applied to people who wouldn’t be “branded” by convention or expected ways of thinking.

Now, to wrap up for this Beaver Island Wednesday…

Here’s a thought for the day from Henry Ford: “Whether you think you can, or you think you can’t–you’re right.”

On a lighter note…

The Model A had a wooden body and wooden wheels, but what would have happened if it also had a wooden engine?

It wooden start.

That’s the W-V-B-I Community Calendar Report for this Beaver Island Wednesday, July 22nd, 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

Sunny, with a high near 70 at the beach and 74 in the woods. Southwest wind 5 to 10 mph increasing to 10 to 15 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 25 mph.

Tonight

Mostly clear, with a low around 62. Southwest wind around 15 mph.

Friday

Sunny, with a high near 69/76. Southwest wind 10 to 15 mph.

Friday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 66. South wind around 15 mph.

Saturday

A chance of showers, with thunderstorms also possible after 5pm. Partly sunny, with a high near 75/78. Breezy, with a southwest wind around 20 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph. Chance of precipitation is 40%.

Saturday Night

A chance of showers between 8pm and 2am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 64. Chance of precipitation is 30%.

Sunday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 78/78.

Sunday Night

Showers likely. Partly cloudy, with a low around 67.

Monday

A chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 77/77.

Monday Night

A chance of showers before 2am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 64.

Tuesday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 74/74.

Tuesday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 63.

Wednesday

Sunny, with a high near 75/75.

Air Quality Index at 6:50am was 19.

Fire Danger: Moderate

Out on the Big Drink…

Photo from the North Lake Michigan Buoy. Provided by the National Data Buoy Center

Today

WSW wind 10 to 15 kt. Sunny. Waves 1 to 2 ft.

Friday

SW wind around 10 kt. Sunny. Waves around 1 ft.

Saturday

SW wind 15 to 20 kt, with gusts as high as 30 kt. A chance of showers, mainly before 1pm. Waves 3 to 4 ft.

Sunday

Variable winds 5 kt or less. Partly sunny. Waves 1 ft or less.

Monday

WSW wind around 10 kt. A chance of showers and thunderstorms. Waves 1 to 2 ft.

Water Temps: 61 at the mid-lake buoy southwest of Gull Island. 68 at Sleeping Bear and in the Straits, and 70 in Little Traverse Bay.

 Photos from webcams at wvbi.net and mackinacbridge.org

Coming up in our Community Calendar Report…

Michigan has a new housing law on the books that supporters say could make it less expensive to build smaller apartment buildings. We’ll explain what it does and whether it could have any impact here on Beaver Island. We’ll also have the latest on our stretch of smoke-free skies, we’ll wrap up our series introducing the candidates for Northern Michigan’s congressional seat ahead of next week’s primary and we have word on a freighter run aground and a venomous snake bite.

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: Smoke free skies and a freshly paved parking lot at the St. James Governmental Center. No more trapsing through the mud to meetings. Photo by Bobbi Welke provided by St. James Township on Facebook

The Island had an almost complete reprieve from the smoke yesterday with the AQI dropping to the high range of normal levels shortly after noon. But the smoke crept back in as the afternoon and evening progressed.  This morning the AQI was back up to unhealthy levels on the Island and across the region. The smoke forecast from fire smoke C-A (firesmoke.ca) shows us clear tomorrow morning until about noon, when the haze in our skies is predicted to return.

Image from firesmoke.ca showing projected smoke cover at noon today. Image capture from firesmoke.ca

Air Quality sensor map from PurpleAir dangerous air quality reported across the state and much of region. Image from WVBI PurpleAIr Sensor report

Neither the smoke or occasion drizzle dimmed interest in the Music Festival. There were crowds there pretty much non-stop, with downtown also busy with festival attendees. An impromptu B-I-M-F mini concert on W-V-B-I Saturday afternoon drew almost 60 people to the BIC Center Theater for a short set by Tyler Gitchell and his band.

The smoke did cause issues with air travel to the Island, with many hours of no-fly time. To get packages and medicine that normally come by air across, the Boat Company carried the freight with Island Airways picking it up for distribution at Welke Airport.

The Weather Service has issued a coastal flood warning for the Island and most of the mainland coastal areas around us, but that has been cancelled. A Beach Hazard Statement remains in effect, though, for those areas including the Island with dangerous swimming conditions from high waves and rip currents forecast.

The Whitmer administration’s decision to issue permits for the tunnel to replace Line 5 under the straits has drawn furious reactions from those opposed to the projects, including tribal governments. They say their fight is far from over despite state approval of two key permits last week. Environmental and tribal groups plan to appeal EGLE’s permit within 60 days. The project also still needs additional state and federal approvals, while separate lawsuits seeking to shut down the existing Line 5 pipeline continue in court.

Former Michigan Attorney General Mike Cox has dropped out of the Republican race for governor and endorsed Congressman John James. Cox says President Trump’s endorsement of James made victory impossible. The move leaves James and businessman Perry Johnson competing in the August 4 Republican primary.

And, speaking of that, today is the last day to register to vote online or by mail for the August 4^th primary. There’s a link to step-by-step instructions on how to do either in today’s script online. Or you can just drop in to see your township clerk. Just check ahead to see when they will be in.

https://mvic.sos.state.mi.us/Home/RegisterToVote

Over on the mainland, the Venetian Festival is underway in Charlevoix. Look for all sorts of outdoor sports competitions from soccer to croquet, nightly music, street and water parades, fireworks and an airshow. And, lots of traffic.  So plan for delays if you are headed across to join in the fun or get something else done.

https://venetianfestival.com/

On the Island at the Elks Lodge Saturday night, Kathleen Wood won the draw and found a queen, but it was the Queen of Diamonds.  She won $100.

The Queen of Hearts remains in hiding with the pot approaching nine grand.

The Queen of Hearts is still in hiding at the Elks Lodge. The next drawing is this coming Saturday. Phot from Beaver Island Elks via Facebook

Now here’s a look at upcoming events on your Emerald Isle…

First your meeting planner…

A-A meets Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday at 6:00. Peaine Township Election Commission has a Public Accuracy Test at 3:00 on today and then at 4:00 their Planning Commission has a special meeting. Tuesday at 9:00 the Peaine Township Board of Review meets and at 5:30 the Peaine Township Board meets. Thursday and Friday the Peaine Township Planning Commission has meetings at 9:00 in the morning. 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…

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. 

Highlights for the rest of the week include…

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 Backrooms. Be careful where you look. Both are rated R.

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. Baroque on Beaver kicks off with Drinks, Desert and Discussion with Festival Music Director Robert Nording at the Print Shop at 7:30. Tickets are at tickets dot bic center dot org. And, Thursday evenings are Burger and a Beer Night at the Shamrock.

Friday, 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. And, at 11:00, the Rita Gillespie Memorial Blood Drive gets underway at the G-F-C.  Every year, almost, the Island does better than the last. Help make that true by signing up to give the gift of life at versiti dot org slash M-I. That’s V-E-R-S-I-T-I dot org slash M-I.

[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, the Artisan’s Market is on at the Point starting at 10:00. Saturday night, Baroque on Beaver concerts launch with their Opening Night Benefit this year featuring Island favorite Martha Guth with Erika Switzer and Andrea Yun. They’ll perform a selection of Schubert songs alongside contemporary works including the recently commissioned Love, Loss, and Exile by Juhi Bansal. Showtime is 7:30. Tickets are at tickets dot bic center dot org. 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…

Those are the highlights. Find a full listing of events at calendar dot W-V-B-I dot net.

Today’s BIC Center Name of the Day is Robbie.  If that’s your name, come on in to the BIC Center today to pick out a free drink of your choice.

On our Birthday List today are Zack Bousquet, Haylie Olson and Elizabeth Smelser.  Happy Birthday to Elizabeth, Haylie  and Zack, 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, just over two weeks after adopting the Declaration of Independence, the Continental Congress formally thanks the American defenders of Charleston for their victory at Sullivan’s Island, where they repel a major British attack. And, on this date in 1969, the world watches as Apollo 11’s lunar module Eagle lands on the Moon, setting the stage for Neil Armstrong’s first steps later that evening.

The grainy black and white image of Neil Armstrong taking the first step on the Moon amazed people around the world. The camera sending it cost $2.3 million. Photo from NASA

A high-resolution image of the Earth setting behind a view of the far side of the Moon was captured by the Artemis II mission earlier this year as NASA prepares to return humans to the Moon. Photo from NASA

Our Merriam Webster Word of the Day is raffish (adjective) [RAF-ish]. Raffish is an adjective describing someone or something with a flashy, slightly disreputable style that’s nonetheless attractive or appealing. Think of an old riverboat gambler in a rumpled suit, a vintage convertible that’s a little rough around the edges, or a charming downtown bar that’s seen better days but still has plenty of character.

Now, to wrap up for this Beaver Island Monday…

Here’s a thought for the day from Neil Armstrong: “Science has not yet mastered prophecy. We predict too much for the next year and yet far too little for the next 10.”

On a lighter note…

Here’s an actual observation from Albert Eistein: “Only two things are infinite, the universe and human stupidity, and I’m not sure about the former.”

That’s the W-V-B-I Community Calendar Report for this Beaver Island Monday, July 20th, 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

A slight chance of showers before 11am, then a chance of showers after 2pm. Partly sunny, with a high near 74 at the shore, 80 inland. Breezy, with a southwest wind 15 to 25 mph, with gusts as high as 35 mph. Chance of precipitation is 40%.

Tonight

A chance of showers and thunderstorms before 8pm, then showers and possibly a thunderstorm between 8pm and 2am, then a chance of showers after 2am. Patchy smoke before midnight. Low around 63. Breezy, with a southwest wind 15 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 35 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80%. New rainfall amounts between a half and three quarters of an inch possible.

Tuesday

A 30 percent chance of showers, mainly before 8am. Partly sunny, with a temperature falling to around 64 at the shore by 3pm, but steady at 70 inland. Breezy, with a northwest wind 15 to 25 mph, with gusts as high as 35 mph.

Tuesday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 57. Windy, with a northwest wind 25 to 30 mph, with gusts as high as 35 mph.

Wednesday

Sunny, with a high near 73/82. Breezy, with a northwest wind 20 to 25 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph.

Wednesday Night

Clear, with a low around 63.

Thursday

Sunny, with a high near 74/85.

Thursday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 65.

Friday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 74/77.

Friday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 65.

Saturday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 74/78.

Saturday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 66.

Sunday

A chance of showers. Partly sunny, with a high near 75/78.

Air Quality Index at 7:10am was 153.

Fire Danger: High

Out on the Big Drink…

Photo from the North Lake Michigan Buoy. Provided by the National Data Buoy Center

Today-Beach Hazards Statement in Effect

SSW wind 15 to 20 kt, with gusts as high as 30 kt. A slight chance of showers before 3pm, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 4pm. Patchy smoke. Waves 2 ft building to 5 ft. They’ll be 4 to 5 feet overnight with the wind shifting to the W after midnight. So bear that in mind if you are hanging on the hook in the harbor.

Tuesday

WNW wind 15 to 25 kt, with gusts as high as 30 kt. Patchy smoke between 7am and 10am. Waves 2 to 4 ft.

Wednesday

NW wind 15 to 20 kt, with gusts as high as 30 kt. Sunny. Waves 2 to 4 ft.

Thursday

WSW wind 10 to 15 kt. Sunny. Waves 1 to 2 ft.

Friday

WSW wind 10 to 15 kt. Partly sunny. Waves 1 to 2 ft.

Water Temps: 67 at the mid-lake buoy southwest of Gull Island. 70 at Sleeping Bear and in the Straits, and 71 in Little Traverse Bay.

 Photos from webcams at wvbi.net and mackinacbridge.org

Coming up in our Community Calendar Report…

Smoke is back after a brief break yesterday, with unhealthy air returning to the Island this morning and more haze expected later today. We’ll have the latest forecast, reaction to the issueance of permits for the Line 5 tunnel, a change in Michigan’s race for governor, and a reminder that today is the deadline to register online or by mail for the August 4th primary.

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: A high-resolution image of the Earth setting behind a view of the far side of the Moon was captured by the Artemis II mission earlier this year as NASA prepares to return humans to the Moon. Neil Armstrong was the first to set foot on the Moon on this date in 1969. Photo from NASA

After hitting record levels across the state yesterday with a reading of 596 on the Island, the smoke started to clear yesterday afternoon with the sun eventually poking through. This morning the Air Quality Index stands at 152 on the Island, but it is well into the danger zone of the mainland with a reading of 344 in Charlevoix and 453 in Northport. Indeed, we are essentially surrounded by readings all well into the danger zone. The Canadian smoke forecasts show the smoke pulling away from us completely this evening around 11:00, but any respite will be brief with smoke returning at 4:00 am and some of the worst conditions yet arriving by 10:00 on Saturday morning. There’ll be some thinning Saturday afternoon, but smoke at significant levels remains through the current forecast period Saturday evening.

Image from firesmoke.ca showing projected smoke cover at 9:00 Saturday morning. Click the image to see an animated version of the forecast. Image capture from firesmoke.ca

Air Quality sensor map from PurpleAir shows our relief on the Island this morning is a mostly isolated event with dangerous air quality reported across the state and region. Image from WVBI PurpleAIr Sensor report

The smoke has caused schedule changeups and closings on the Island. The Historical Society closed its museums yesterday and the Health Center has canceled its Gratitude Gathering planned for Sunday because of smoke. By the way, if you need an N95 mask, they are available for the taking at the Health Center. The Music Festival continued with its schedule with a good turnout last evening. We have a full rundown of festival events coming up in our calendar report.

Michigan came up in the President’s national address last evening with him calling for the FBI to reopen its investigation into a 2020 Muskegon voter registration fraud case. He said the original FBI investigation found evidence that crimes had been committed, but that the Biden Justice Department failed to pursue the case. Michigan election officials dispute Trump’s characterization. They note that the suspicious voter registration forms were identified by the Muskegon city clerk before the election, none of the registrations resulted in ballots being issued, and the FBI ultimately closed the investigation without filing charges.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services is now reporting four cases of Cyclosporiasis in Charlevoix County. Statewide, 2,640 cases have been reported in Michigan, with 44 indicating hospitalizations. Federal officials have traced a number of cases to lettuce served at Taco Bells, while state officials say that instead of purchasing chopped prepared salads you should buy heads of lettuce, wash them in running water, and throw away the outer layers. They also recommend washing fresh herbs, and avoiding raspberries because their bumpy surface makes them especially difficult to clean.

In Charlevoix, we have no reports of bridge issues yesterday, but we have learned that the bridge was shut down for about six hours Wednesday evening leaving the Emerald Isle and numerous other vessels stuck in the Pine River channel. No word on what caused the issue beyond the overheating reported yesterday.

The Emerald Isle and other vessels were stuck in the channel Wednesday evening awaiting opening of the stuck bridge. Image from marinetraffic.com

If you are across today and looking for something to do nearby, but away from the hustle of Charlevoix, East Jordan has Up North Busker Festival today and tomorrow. The family-friendly event features jugglers, acrobats, magicians, stunt performers, trained dogs, live music, food trucks, vendors, a kids’ area and a beer tent. Admission is free.

And, finally a reminder that 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. 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.

Now here’s a look at upcoming events on your Emerald Isle…

First your meeting planner…

A-A meets Saturday, at 6:00 at the Christian Church. Next week, A-A meets Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday same time and place. Also next week, Peaine Township Election Commission has a Public Accuracy Test at 3:00 on Monday and then at 4:00 their Planning Commission has a special meeting. Tuesday at 9:00 the Peaine Township Board of Review meets and at 5:30 the Peaine Township Board meets. Thursday and Friday the Peaine Township Planning Commission has meetings at 9:00 in the morning. 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…

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-stop 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.

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. Baroque on Beaver kicks off with Drinks, Desert and Discussion with Festival Music Director Robert Nording at the Print Shop at 7:30. Tickets are at tickets dot bic center dot org. And, Thursday evenings are Burger and a Beer Night at the Shamrock.

Those are the highlights. Find a full listing of events at calendar dot W-V-B-I dot net.

On our Birthday List today is Garrett Cole.  Happy Birthday to Garrett, 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 1775, people in London were already predicting that the Continental Congress would soon issue a declaration explaining why the American colonies were separating from Great Britain and would seek support from other nations. At the time, independence had not yet been declared, but many on both sides of the Atlantic could see that reconciliation was becoming increasingly unlikely. Less than a year later, the Declaration of Independence would make that break official. And, on this date in 1955, Disneyland opened in Anaheim, California, launching what would become one of the world’s most famous theme parks.

Children run across a drawbridge into the Fantasyland castle during Disneyland’s opening day in Anaheim. Photo from Wikimedia Commons

Our Merriam Webster Word of the Day is obdurate (adjective) [AHB-duh-rut]. Obdurate is an adjective that describes someone who is stubbornly refusing to change their opinion or course of action, even when faced with reason, persuasion, or compassion. It suggests an especially hard-hearted or inflexible attitude.

The word comes from the Latin obdūrātus (ob-doo-RAH-tus), the past participle of obdūrāre (ob-doo-RAH-ray), meaning “to harden” or “to make hard.”  While being determined can be a strength, being obdurate means digging in your heels when flexibility or understanding might be the wiser choice.

Now, to wrap up for this Beaver Island Friday…

Here’s a thought for the day from John Quincy Adams: “Patience and perseverance have a magical effect before which difficulties disappear and obstacles vanish.”

On a lighter note…

The drawbridge in Charlevoix says it needs a break…

It just can’t handle all the ups and downs for a while.

That’s the W-V-B-I Community Calendar Report for this Beaver Island Friday, July 17th, 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

A slight chance of showers between 11am and 2pm. Widespread smoke. Partly sunny, with a steady temperature around 68 at the beach and up to 79 inland. South wind 5 to 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20%.

Tonight

A slight chance of thunderstorms, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 8pm. Widespread smoke, mainly before 11pm. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 65. Breezy, with a southeast wind 10 to 15 mph becoming west 15 to 20 mph after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 30 mph. Chance of precipitation is 50%.

Saturday

Mostly cloudy through mid-morning, then gradual clearing, with a high near 72/78. Breezy, with a west wind 15 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph.

Saturday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 61. North wind 10 to 15 mph.

Sunday

Sunny, with a high near 73/79. North wind 5 to 10 mph becoming south in the afternoon.

Sunday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 66.

Monday

Showers likely, mainly after 2pm. Partly sunny, with a high near 76/82. Breezy. Chance of precipitation is 60%.

Monday Night

Showers likely before 8pm, then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm between 8pm and 2am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 62. Breezy.

Tuesday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 71/76. Windy.

Tuesday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 59. Breezy.

Wednesday

Sunny, with a high near 70/75. Breezy.

Wednesday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 62.

Thursday

Sunny, with a high near 73/78.

Air Quality Index at 6:21am was 152.

Fire Danger: High

Out on the Big Drink…

Photo from the North Lake Michigan Buoy. Provided by the National Data Buoy Center

Today

Variable winds 5 kt or less. A slight chance of showers after 5pm. Widespread smoke. Waves 1 ft or less.

Saturday

W wind 15 to 20 kt becoming NNW in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 25 kt. A chance of showers and thunderstorms before 7am. Waves around 3 ft.

Sunday

Variable winds 5 kt or less. Sunny. Waves 1 ft or less.

Monday

SSW wind 20 to 25 kt, with gusts as high as 35 kt. Showers likely, mainly after 1pm. Waves 3 ft building to 6 ft.

Tuesday

WNW wind 20 to 25 kt, with gusts as high as 35 kt. Mostly sunny. Waves 4 to 5 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.

 Photos from webcams at wvbi.net and mackinacbridge.org

Coming up in our Community Calendar Report…

Smoke eases a bit on Beaver Island this morning, but much of Michigan remains under hazardous air, and forecasters say another thick wave arrives overnight. We’ll have the latest smoke forecast, local event cancellations, an update on the President’s call to reopen the Muskegon voter fraud case, and the latest on the Cyclospora outbreak.

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: Air Quality sensor map from PurpleAir shows our relief on the Island this morning is a mostly isolated event with dangerous air quality reported across the state and region. After some clearing late tonight, heavy smoke is expected to return tomorrow morning and though there will be some let up from that as the day progresses, smoke is expected to remain at significant levels through the rest of the day. The Health Center has N95 masks available for free if you need one. Image from WVBI PurpleAIr Sensor report

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.

Highlights for the rest of the week include…

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.

Today’s BIC Center Name of the Day is ????.  If that’s your name, come on down to the BIC Center today to pick out a free drink of your choice.

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.  Apollo 11 lifts off on its way to the first landing of humans on the Moon. Photo from NASA via Wikimedia

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.

 Photos from webcams at wvbi.net and mackinacbridge.org

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

After a spectacular smoke enhanced sunset last evening, the Island woke up this morning under a thick smoke haze. Some meteorologists are saying it’s the worst smoke event they’ve ever seen. W-V-B-I’s air quality sensor is reporting one of the worst air quality index readings ever at 170, and if the models we are seeing are correct it is likely to get worse before it gets better. PurpleAir, which made our sensor, says at the current level some members of the general public may experience health effects with 24 hours of exposure. Members of sensitive groups may experience more serious health effects. The National Weather service advises that those in air quality sensitive groups

remain inside with the A-C on.

Air Quality sensor map from PurpleAir shows the poor air quality spreading downwind from the fires in Canada. Image from WVBI PurpleAIr Sensor report

Supporters of keeping the Gull Harbor Road open to motor vehicles are urging Beaver Island residents to speak out as discussions continue over the future of the Gull Harbor Natural Area. At recent St. James Township meetings, residents called for greater transparency in planning and asked the Township Board to adopt a resolution supporting continued motorized access. Township officials say they’re reviewing a recent letter from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy, or EGLE, with their attorney before taking further action.

Federal health officials say Michigan’s outbreak of cyclospora appears to be linked to similar outbreaks in Ohio, West Virginia, and Kentucky, suggesting a common source. Investigators have not yet identified what’s causing the illnesses. More than 1,600 confirmed cases have been reported nationwide, but the CDC says the true number is likely much higher because many people never seek testing.

A bill allowing Lower Peninsula residents to feed deer in their backyards is awaiting Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s signature. Supporters say it’s intended for wildlife viewing near homes, while opponents warn it could increase the spread of chronic wasting disease. If signed, the Department of Natural Resources says feeding could still be restricted in some areas because of existing disease-control agreements. The governor has 14 days to sign or veto the measure.

St. James Parish is welcoming a new priest to Beaver Island. Father Doug Mayer has retired and will now make the Island his home, assisting Father Peter with Masses and the sacraments. Father Doug will celebrate weekday Masses and fill in whenever Father Peter is away.

The Beaver Head Lighthouse volunteer crew has finished power washing the inside of the tower, removing years of dirt and spider webs. The annual Lighthouse Picnic is set for Saturday, August 22nd at 1 p.m. Bring a dish to pass. Hot dogs, plates, and utensils will be provided.

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…

Wednesday, there’s Summer Restorative Yoga BIC Center at 9:30. At, 10:00 there’s American Mah Jongg at the BIC Center. The Museum Week Art Show opens at 11:00 and runs to 4:00 at the G-F-C. Also starting at 11:00 is an open house at the CMU Biological Station.  That runs until 4:00 as well. Protar’s House will be open from 1:00 to 4:00. The library’s Books on the Loose program will be at the Public Beach at 1:00. Kids can create C-D wind spinners and receive their own copy of See Marcus Grow. At 2:00, a Tie Dye Happy Hour starts at the Wild Strawberry Café. Materials will be provided with a drink purchase or bring along your own shirt to tie dye. At 3:00 the Book Club meet sat the library to discuss The Correspondent by Virginia Evans and at 4:00 Anne Pritchett will be there to talk about her new book called Pickleball Wars! Also 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. The Historical Society has its next session on Incredible Islanders. This one will focus on Native American Fishermen. It starts at 7:00 at the Print Shop Museum. Also at 7:00 tomorrow evening, Caleb Christopher Edwards plays at the Donegal Bay Pavillion. Stop by to enjoy some original folk songs, traditional Gospel melodies and heartfelt storytelling. And at 7:30 on stage at the BIC Center, it’s Edye & Mike, back by popular demand after their near full house show last year. John them for an evening of cool jazz and light pop. Tickets are at tickets dot bic center dot org.

Eyde & Mike play this evening at the BIC Center. Showtime is 7:30. Image from edyeandmike.com

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.

Highlights for the rest of the week include…

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. 

Those are the highlights. Find a full listing of events at calendar dot W-V-B-I dot net.

Today’s BIC Center Name of the Day is ????.  If that’s your name, come on down to the BIC Center today to pick out a free drink of your choice.

On our Birthday List today are Marie LaFreniere and Michael Hoernke. Happy Birthday to Marie and Michael, 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 receives word that New York has officially endorsed independence, meaning all 13 colonies now stand united behind the break with Great Britain. Congress also authorizes temporary “flying camps” of militia to strengthen the defense of the young nation as British forces gather around New York.

Also on this date: In 1799, French soldiers in Egypt discover the Rosetta Stone, the artifact that eventually unlocks the mystery of ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics and transforms our understanding of one of history’s greatest civilizations.

 The Rosetta Stone, preserved at the British Museum, played a key role in deciphering ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs. Image and caption from Wikimedia

Our Merriam Webster Word of the Day is loquacious (adjective) [loh-KWAY-shus]. If someone is loquacious, they love to talk and do it easily and at length. The word comes from the Latin loquī, meaning “to speak,” and it’s the root of words like eloquent, colloquial, soliloquy, and ventriloquism. So if a friend always has one more story to tell, you can say they’re loquacious.

Now, to wrap up for this Beaver Island Wednesday…

Here’s a thought for the day John Lubbock: “[T]o lie sometimes on the grass under trees on a summer’s day, listening to the murmur of the water, or watching the clouds float across the sky, is by no means a waste of time.”

On a lighter note…

What’s Forrest Gump’s computer password?

1forrest1

That’s the W-V-B-I Community Calendar Report for this Beaver Island Wednesday, July 15th, 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, mainly after 2pm. Partly sunny, with a high near 77 at water’s edge, 84 inland. West wind 5 to 10 mph.

Tonight

Widespread smoke, mainly before 5am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 66. Northwest wind 5 to 10 mph.

Thursday

Widespread smoke. Partly sunny, with a high near 76/82. West wind 5 to 10 mph.

Thursday Night

Widespread smoke before 9pm. Increasing clouds, with a low around 66. North wind around 5 mph becoming northeast after midnight.

Friday

A 40 percent chance of showers. Partly sunny, with a high near 85/83. East wind around 10 mph.

Friday Night

Showers likely, then showers and possibly a thunderstorm after 2am. Low around 66. Chance of precipitation is 80%.

Saturday

Showers and possibly a thunderstorm before 8am, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms between 8am and 2pm. High near 77/80. Chance of precipitation is 80%.

Saturday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 62.

Sunday

Sunny, with a high near 79/83.

Sunday Night

A chance of showers after 2am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 66.

Monday

Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm. Partly sunny, with a high near 77/81. Breezy.

Monday Night

Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm. Partly cloudy, with a low around 61. Breezy.

Tuesday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 73/75. Breezy.

Air Quality Index at 7:13am was 166.

Fire Danger: High

Out on the Big Drink…

Photo from the North Lake Michigan Buoy. Provided by the National Data Buoy Center

Today

NNW wind 5 to 10 kt becoming W in the morning. Widespread smoke. Waves 1 ft or less.

Tonight

NNW wind 5 to 10 kt. Widespread smoke. Waves 1 ft or less.

Thursday

W wind 5 to 10 kt. Widespread smoke, mainly after 7am. Waves 1 ft or less.

Thursday Night

Variable winds 5 kt or less. Mostly cloudy. Waves 1 ft or less.

Friday

E wind 5 to 10 kt. A chance of showers. Waves 1 ft or less.

Friday Night

E wind 5 to 10 kt becoming SSW after midnight. Showers likely. Waves 1 ft or less.

Saturday

SW wind around 15 kt becoming N in the afternoon. A chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1pm. Waves 1 to 2 ft.

Saturday Night

N wind 5 to 15 kt. Partly cloudy. Waves 1 to 2 ft.

Sunday

Variable winds 5 kt or less. Mostly sunny. Waves 1 ft or less.

Water Temps: 71 at the mid-lake buoy southwest of Gull Island and in the Straits. 72 at Sleeping Bear and in Little Traverse Bay.

 Photos from webcams at wvbi.net and mackinacbridge.org

Coming up in our Community Calendar Report…

Smoke from Canadian wildfires is making for very poor air on Beaver Island today, with one of the worst air quality readings we’ve ever recorded. We’ll have the latest and what health officials recommend. Also, the debate over Gull Harbor Road continues, a new priest is joining St. James Parish, and we’ll tell you about getting the Beaver Head Lighthouse ready for the annual picnic.

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: Air Quality sensor map from PurpleAir shows the poor air quality spreading downwind from the fires in Canada. Image from WVBI PurpleAIr Sensor report

State Representative Parker Fairbairn was on the Island yesterday for a townhall meeting at the St. James Township Hall. The session was well attended with Gull Harbor Drive coming up. He said he is continuing to correspond with EGLE about the issue, which concerns use of the road, which runs across Lake Michigan bottom-ground in places.

The busy heart of summer is here with Museum Week underway and the Music Festival starting up on Thursday. We’ve got a rundown of events in coming up. Meantime, if you are headed to Charlevoix next week, the Venetian Festival returns there starting July 19 through 26. There’ll be eight days of concerts, parades, athletic events, carnival rides and family activities drawing about 100,000 visitors. So it will be busy there with lots of traffic delays.

Meantime, a major military exercise is underway off Northern Michigan through July 24. Silent Swarm 26, based at Alpena’s Combat Readiness Training Center, is testing advanced unmanned boats, underwater vehicles and aircraft. Boaters may see the small military drones operating on, above and below the water, with crewed vessels nearby to ensure safe operations.

Charlevoix County officials are looking for input on their parks and recreation operations.  That includes use of the property at the South End lighthouse. Here’s your chance to tell the county what you think about the use of that land. There’s a link to the survey in today’s script online.

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CharlevoixCountyPRSurvey

The Irish Feile continues its Artist Spotlight series in the Tides That Tie podcast. The latest episode to drop features Danny Gillespie & Friends. The group includes Brother Jim Boynton, skilled in fiddle, tin whistle, and vocals, as well as Shawnie McDonough on banjo and vocals, with occasional appearances by Timmy Baker and Jackson Smith. There’s a link to the podcast in today’s script online.
https://www.biihg.com/podcast-the-tides-that-tie/

Danny Gillespie & Friends are featured in the latest Tides that Tie podcast. In this photo they pay at the Beachcomber. Photo from Irish Heritage Group via Facebook

Now here’s a look at upcoming events on your Emerald Isle…

First your meeting planner…

A-A meets tonight, Thursday and Saturday, at 6:00 at the Christian Church.  St. James Township Board has a special meeting today at 5:00. The Irish Heritage Group meets today at 5:30, 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…

Tuesday 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 7:00, the Historical Society continues its series on Incredible Islanders with a look at Military Service of Islanders.  And, at 7:30 in the Theater at the BIC Center, its Decades of Drag Trivia with Eleganza and Fierce Fun for adults. Tickets are at tickets dot bic center dot org.

It’s a special trivia night for grownups tonight at the BIC Center with Decades of Drag Trivia. Tickets are at tickets.biccenter.org. Image from BIC Center/WVBI Community Calendar

Wednesday, there’s Summer Restorative Yoga BIC Center at 9:30. At, 10:00 there’s American Mah Jongg at the BIC Center. The Museum Week Art Show opens at 11:00 and runs to 4:00 at the G-F-C. Also starting at 11:00 is an open house at the CMU Biological Station.  That runs until 4:00 as well. Protar’s House will be open from 1:00 to 4:00. At 2:00, a Tie Dye Happy Hour starts at the Wild Strawberry Café. Materials will be provided with a drink purchase or bring along your own shirt to tie dye. At 3:00 the Book Club meet sat the library to discuss The Correspondent by Virginia Evans and at 4:00 Anne Pritchett will be there to talk about her new book called Pickleball Wars! Also 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. The Historical Society has its next session on Incredible Islanders. This one will focus on Native American Fishermen. It starts at 7:00 at the Print Shop Museum. Also at 7:00 tomorrow evening, Caleb Christopher Edwards plays at the Donegal Bay Pavillion. Stop by to enjoy some original folk songs, traditional Gospel melodies and heartfelt storytelling. And at 7:30 on stage at the BIC Center, it’s Edye & Mike, back by popular demand after their newar full house show last year. John them for an evening of cool jazz and light pop. Tickets are at tickets dot bic center dot org.

Caleb Christopher Edwards plays at the Donegal Bay Pavillion on July 15 at 7:00. Image from Clodaugh McNaughtan via Facebook

Highlights for the rest of the week include…

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 & Krisit 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.

Those are the highlights. Find a full listing of events at calendar dot W-V-B-I dot net.

Today’s BIC Center Name of the Day is ????.  If that’s your name, come on down to the BIC Center today to pick out a free drink of your choice.

On our Birthday List today is Marta Stein. Happy Birthday to Marta, 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 1780, French troops under the command of the Comte de Rochambeau settle into Newport, Rhode Island, after arriving to support the American cause. Their arrival marks the beginning of the military partnership that would lead to the decisive victory at Yorktown just over a year later, helping secure American independence. And on this date in 1965, NASA’s Mariner 4 spacecraft returns the first close-up photographs ever taken of another planet. The images fundamentally transformed the scientific view of the Red Planet, revealing a cold planet with widespread cratering and quashing speculation of lost civilizations.

A real-time data translator machine converted Mariner 4 digital image data into numbers printed on strips of paper. The team colored in the strips by hand with pastels, making this both a work of art and the first digital image from space. Image and caption from JPL/Caltech via NASA

Our Merriam Webster Word of the Day is yaw

(verb) [YAW]. It’s a verb meaning to turn left or right, especially in an uncontrolled way, as a ship, airplane, or spacecraft can do. The word dates back to the 1500s as a nautical term and later took flight with aviation. Today, pilots and astronauts use yaw, along with pitch and roll, to describe the movement of aircraft and spacecraft.

Now, to wrap up for this Beaver Island Tuesday…

Here’s a thought for the day John Steinbeck: “What good is the warmth of summer, without the cold of winter to give it sweetness.”

On a lighter note…

What’s the best thing about Switzerland?

I don’t know, but their flag is a huge plus.

That’s the W-V-B-I Community Calendar Report for this Beaver Island Tuesday, July 14th, 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

Partly sunny, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 79 by the water 88 inland. West wind 10 to 15 mph.

Tonight

Patchy smoke after 11pm. Partly cloudy, with a low around 69. West wind 5 to 10 mph becoming north after midnight.

Wednesday

Areas of smoke. Mostly sunny, with a high near 82/94. Northwest wind 5 to 10 mph becoming west in the afternoon.

Wednesday Night

Areas of smoke before 9pm. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 67. Northwest wind 5 to 10 mph.

Thursday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 79/83. West wind 5 to 10 mph.

Thursday Night

Mostly cloudy, with a low around 65.

Friday

Partly sunny, with a high near 78/83.

Friday Night

A chance of showers after 8pm. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 66.

Saturday

A chance of showers. Partly sunny, with a high near 76/81.

Saturday Night

A chance of showers before 2am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 64.

Sunday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 78/82.

Sunday Night

A chance of showers. Partly cloudy, with a low around 64.

Monday

A chance of showers. Mostly sunny, with a high near 76/79.

Air Quality Index at 6:54am was 65.

Fire Danger: High

Out on the Big Drink…

Photo from the North Lake Michigan Buoy. Provided by the National Data Buoy Center

Today

WSW wind 10 to 15 kt. Sunny. Waves around 2 ft.

Wednesday

Variable winds 5 kt or less. Partly sunny. Waves 1 ft or less.

Thursday

Variable winds 5 kt or less. Partly sunny. Waves 1 ft or less.

Friday

Variable winds 5 kt or less. Partly sunny. Waves 1 ft or less.

Saturday

SSE wind around 10 kt becoming NNW in the afternoon. Showers likely. Waves around 1 ft.

Water Temps: 70 at the mid-lake buoy southwest of Gull Island. 72 at Sleeping Bear and in Little Traverse Bay. 71 in the Straits.

 Photos from webcams at wvbi.net and mackinacbridge.org

Coming up in our Community Calendar Report…

Representative Parker Fairbairn meets with Islanders on Gull Harbor Drive, Museum Week and the Music Festival get underway, Charlevoix gears up for Venetian Festival, a major military drone exercise is happening off Northern Michigan, and Charlevoix County wants your input on parks—including the South End Lighthouse property.…

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: It was a gorgeous sunrise over Paradise Bay yesterday ahead of a busy day in the harbor. Check out four ferry turn-arounds, lots of boat traffic and some avian visitors all captured in a full day time lapse from WVBI’s Paradise Bay Webcam. Screen capture from WVBI Paradise Bay Webcam

We start with some sad news. The Shamrock has shared word that Chuck Carpenter has passed away. Chuck manned the bar at the Shamrock for 20 years and has probably served up something at some point with just about every Islander along with many visitors. He will be missed by many.

Down in T-C, the backlash against data centers continues. More than 100 people packed a Garfield Township Planning Commission meeting Wednesday to support a pause on future data center development. While no data center has been proposed for the township, residents raised concerns about water use, energy demand and environmental impacts. The commission voted to recommend changing the township’s zoning ordinance to allow temporary development moratoriums when needed. The proposal now heads to the township board, with a vote expected later this summer.

In Lansing, the effort to recall Antrim County Clerk Victoria Bishop heads to a hearing before the Michigan Board of State Canvassers on July 24. If the petition is approved, supporters will have 60 days to collect about 4,000 signatures to put the recall before county voters.

If you are headed down to T-C next week, you should plan on even worse traffic than has become normal for summer there. Drivers should expect major backups Tuesday and Wednesday at South Airport and Cass roads in Traverse City. Emergency sewer repairs will close several lanes while crews stabilize a damaged, 15-foot-deep main. Traffic will still get through, but officials warn of tight turns and significant delays. More extensive repairs are expected after Labor Day.

Over on High Island, the Piping Plovers are doing well this season. There were seven nests producing a bevy of chicks. Four of them have successfully fledged, which means they have grown feathers and are ready to take flight.  Six more are currently on their way to fledging. Island birding expert Pam Grassmick says that marks a very successful year so far for the endangered species.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is asking the public to report sightings of the elusive gray fox after new research suggests it’s much rarer than once believed. Gray foxes have grizzled gray fur, a black stripe down the tail, and unlike red foxes, they can climb trees. They have been seen on the Island in the past. If you’ve spotted one recently—or have trail camera or doorbell camera footage—the DNR wants your report to help researchers better understand and protect Michigan’s gray fox population. There’s a link to do that in today’s script online.

https://www2.dnr.state.mi.us/ors/Survey/44

Is that fox gray or red. Here’s a spotter’s guide from the DNR. Photos from Michigan DNR

And we conclude the news today with yet another political debate, but this one about history. Jackson is pushing back after some Kalamazoo Republicans claimed their city—not Jackson—is the true birthplace of the Republican Party. Jackson historians say the party was officially founded there on July 6, 1854, when delegates adopted a platform and nominated candidates. Kalamazoo argues the movement actually began weeks earlier with an anti-slavery convention there.

Now here’s a look at upcoming events on your Emerald Isle…

First your meeting planner…

A-A meets Saturday at 6 PM at the Christian Church. Next week they meet Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, same place and time.  Also next week, the Irish Heritage Group meets at 5:30 on Tuesday, 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…

Friday, 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. Friday is another Elks Burger Night. Drive through service at the G-F-C. Ten bucks for a charcoal grilled burger. Sides available. Get yours from 5:00 to 6:30. Order in advance today from 1:00 to 5:00 with a call to 448-2450 or just show up. Grab yours and head to the BIC Center where , Duke Tumatoe takes to the stage at 7:30 with high-energy blues, rock, and R&B in a style all his own. There’s Cabaret seating so you can bring that burger in with other food snacks and beverages. Tickets are at tickets dot bic center dot org.

Duke Tuumatoe lights up the BIC Center stage Friday at 7:30. Image from BIC Center via WVBI Community Calendar

[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, the Artisan’s Market is on at the Point starting at 10:00. And Saturday nights are Prime Rib Night at the Shamrock. At 7:30, its time for the Glen McDonough Memorial Concert. Music in the pines starting at 7:30 at Reddeer, the little cabin on the woods as you head south out of town on Kings Highway.

[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, there’s Redeer Unplugged with Shawn McDonough playing at 9:00.

The Glenn McDonough Concerts are coming up this weekend. Image from The Red Deer Folk Society via Facebook

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 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 a movie day this week. The 3:00 show is Hoppers. A young animal lover uses technology that places her consciousness into a robotic beaver to uncover mysteries within the animal world beyond her imagination. It’s the latest from Pixar, rated PG. At 6:00 it’s Remarkably Bright Creatures, based on the best-selling book, telling the story of an Octopus and its relationship with two caregivers at an aquarium. Sally Field stars. Rated PG-13. At 7:00 Monday evening Museum Week kicks off with Music on the Porch. There’ll be chairs set up, but bring one of your own if you can and, if you like, some snacks and beverages to enjoy. After Musci On the Porch, head up to Redeer for the last night of Redeer Unplugged. John McCafferty starts playing in the cabin at 9:00. And, don’t forget, Monday evenings are All You Can Eat Pizza and Salad night at the Beachcomber.

Tuesday 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 and there is Pickleball outside on the township courts. At 7:00, the Historical Society continues its series on Incredible Islanders with a look at Military Service of Islanders.  And, at 7:30 in the Theater at the BIC Center, its Decades of Drag Trivia with Eleganza and Fierce Fun for adults. Tickets are at tickets dot bic center dot org.

Wednesday, there’s Summer Restorative Yoga BIC Center at 9:30. The Museum Week Art Show opens at 11:00 and runs to 4:00 at the G-F-C. Protar’s House will be open from 1:00 to 4:00. At 3:00 the Book Club meet sat the library to discuss The Correspondent by Virginia Evans and at 4:00 Anne Pritchett will be there to talk about her new book called Pickleball Wars!. Also 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. The Historical Society has its next session on Incredible Islanders. This one will focus on Native American Fishermen. It starts at 7:00 at the Print Shop Museum.

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 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.

Those are the highlights. Find a full listing of events at calendar dot W-V-B-I dot net.

Today’s BIC Center Name of the Day is ????.  If that’s your name, come on down to the BIC Center today to pick out a free drink of your choice.

On our Birthday List today are Trevor Gorlewski and Robin Broder. Happy Birthday to Trevor and Robin, 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 municipal airport. Still some delays getting to Welke airport as shoulder and other finishing work continues on the East Side Drive paving work. Otherwise, the Island Beltway is running smoothly. There will continue to be heavy truck traffic on Kings Highway, McCauley and East Side Drive between them as part of the paving project. So, the Island is busier than ever with all the construction traffic, bikers and hikers, walkers and phone gawkers, fawns and turtles and traffic in town when the ferry arrives, so let’s be careful out there.

On this date in 1776, news of the Declaration of Independence continued spreading across the colonies. After its first public reading in Philadelphia on July 8, copies were arriving in towns and military camps by horseback and ship. As the Declaration reached more communities, local officials gathered citizens to hear it read aloud, turning Congress’s vote into a growing public commitment to independence. Also on this date in 1890, President Benjamin Harrison signs legislation making Wyoming the 44th state. The eastern part of the region had been acquired from France in the Louisiana Purchase, and the western portion ceded to the United States at the end of the Mexican-American War.

Wyoming’s state flag features a buffalo. Image from Wikipedia

Our Merriam Webster Word of the Day is effulgence (noun) [ih-FULL-junss]. It’s a noun meaning radiant splendor or brilliant light. The word comes from a Latin verb meaning “to shine,” but effulgence isn’t just ordinary brightness. It’s the kind of dazzling glow that leaves you in awe—whether it’s fireworks lighting up the sky, the northern lights, or a spectacular sunrise over Lake Michigan.

Now, to wrap up for this Beaver Island Friday…

Here’s a thought for the day from Winston Churchill: “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.”

On a lighter note…

Why did the light bulb apply for a promotion? Because its effulgence was finally getting the recognition it deserved!

That’s the W-V-B-I Community Calendar Report for this Beaver Island Friday, July 10th, 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

Sunny, with a high near 80. North wind around 5 mph.

Tonight

Mostly clear, with a low around 65. Northwest wind around 5 mph becoming northeast after midnight.

Saturday

Sunny, with a high near 84 on the beach, 83 in the woods. East wind around 5 mph becoming southwest in the afternoon.

Saturday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 67. Southwest wind around 5 mph becoming southeast in the evening.

Sunday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 84/83. Southwest wind 10 to 15 mph.

Sunday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 66.

Monday

Sunny, with a high near 78/90.

Monday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 68.

Tuesday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 81/87. Breezy.

Tuesday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 66.

Wednesday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 79/85.

Wednesday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 65.

Thursday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 79/85.

Air Quality Index at 7:00am was 53.

Fire Danger: Moderate

Out on the Big Drink…

Photo from the North Lake Michigan Buoy. Provided by the National Data Buoy Center

Today

Variable winds 5 kt or less. Patchy fog before 8am. Waves 1 ft or less.

Saturday

Variable winds 5 kt or less. Sunny. Waves 1 ft or less.

Sunday

SW wind around 10 kt. Mostly sunny. Waves 1 ft or less.

Monday

SW wind around 15 kt. Sunny. Waves around 2 ft.

Tuesday

WSW wind 15 to 20 kt, with gusts as high as 30 kt. Mostly sunny. Waves 3 to 4 ft.

Water Temps: 68 at the mid-lake buoy southwest of Gull Island. 69 at Sleeping Bear, in Little Traverse Bay and in the Straits.

 Photos from webcams at wvbi.net and mackinacbridge.org

Coming up in our Community Calendar Report…

Sad news of the passing of a familiar Island face as the Shamrock. We’ll also have the latest on growing opposition to data centers in northern Michigan, major traffic delays coming to Traverse City next week, good news for High Island’s piping plovers, a call to help track Michigan’s elusive gray fox, and a political debate over where the Republican Party was really born

…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: Longtime Shamrock bar tender and friend Chuck Carpenter has passed away. He will be missed. Photo provided by the Shamrock via Facebook