WVBI

President Trump rallied Republicans in Port Huron yesterday, urging support for Senate candidate Mike Rogers and governor candidate John James ahead of the November third election. Trump made claims linking Democrat Abdul El-Sayed to the Muslim Brotherhood. El-Sayed’s campaign called the attacks lies and says he’s focused on lowering costs. Trump also defended the Iran war despite higher gas prices and predicts a favorable end to the tariff dispute with Canada.

#Election2026

Before joining Trump Sunday, Mike Rogers highlighted some differences with the president during a Friday stop in Traverse City. Speaking to business leaders, Rogers opposed Canadian tariffs and called for ending the Iran war. He left open supporting congressional limits on Trump’s war powers if fighting continues into January. Democrat Abdul El-Sayed already supports those limits.

#Election2026

Democrats brought their own presidential support to Michigan Saturday. Barack Obama rallied more than forty-three hundred people in Detroit for Abdul El-Sayed and Jocelyn Benson as early voting began. Obama blamed Trump’s tariffs and the Iran war for rising costs and urged voters to elect Democrats as a check on the administration.

#Election2026

And in the governor’s race, Republican John James says he remains competitive despite what he calls a twenty-million-dollar advertising disadvantage. He’s seeking more support for the campaign’s final days and promises to repeal Michigan’s twenty-four-percent wholesale marijuana tax. Recent polls show Democrat Jocelyn Benson ahead, but within the margin of error. A new Republican Party ad buy is helping James narrow the spending gap.

#Election2026

On the Island, Volunteers were busy at the TUNES Studio this weekend getting things ready for winter and their Halloween open house Saturday evening. A new storm door was among the improvements.
#MusicEducation

Decorations and a storm door go up at the TUNES Studio. Photo by Rob Cole

At the Elks on Saturday, Carolyn Moss wins 250 dollars in the Queen of Hearts raffle, but the Queen stays hidden and the pot reaches 21-thousand-490 dollars.

#Fundraising

The Queen hides on at the Elks. The pot approaches $22K. Photo provided by Beaver Island Elks

Finally, a reminder about the Friends of Beaver Island AmVets and their Wreaths Across America campaign, which places wreaths on the graves of vets for the holidays. Seventeen dollars will covers one wreath or thirty-four gets three. Make checks payable to W-A-A and mail to Box Eight, Beaver Island, to arrive before Thanksgiving, or donate online. Go to donate dot wreaths across America dot org and use the map to locate the Island. There’s a link in today’s script online.

https://www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/Shop/Product/597?tid=FAFEDEA7-D74F-467B-B6DC-E581A64AB17A&pageIds=19520,0&vw=home

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

First, your meeting planner for the week…

St. James Finance Committee meets today at 1:30. A-A meets Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday at 6:00.

Locations and more details for meetings are in the calendar entries online.

On the fun front today…

Monday
Open Hands Breakfast Café returns after its break—a chance to start the week with breakfast and time with your Island neighbors.

Tuesday
Babies and Toddlers Mix-Up at the library at 10:00. Chair Strength Training follows at 10:30 in the BIC Center Hangout.

Highlights for the rest of the week include…

Wednesday
American Mah Jongg starts at 10:00 in the BIC Center Hangout, followed by Afternoon Bingo at 1:00. At 5:00, Time for Art features pumpkin carving and decorating. Pumpkins and supplies are provided. It’s free for those sixty and older and five dollars for everyone else. Take your creation home or leave it for the BIC Center’s Halloween Pumpkin Walk.

Thursday
Women’s Bible Study starts at 10:00 at the Christian Church. Chair Yoga follows at 11:00 at the BIC Center. Burger and a Beer Night starts at 5:00 at the Shamrock. Euchre at Whiskey Point Brewing Company starts at 7:00.

Friday
At school, the annual grade school Halloween Costume Parade starts at 8:15 in the morning. Kids should arrive in costume, and parents should plan to take costumes home afterward. No toy weapons. The BIC Center’s fourth annual Pumpkin Walk runs from all day from 9:00 to 7:00. Senior and Veterans Coffee and Donuts runs from 9:00 to 11:00 in the lobby. Pickleball starts at 10:00 at Peaine Township Park, and Chair Strength Training follows at 10:30 in the BIC Center Hangout. Back at school, the Student Council’s Haunted Hallway runs from 6:00 to 7:00 for all students. Admission is one dollar for kindergarten through sixth grade and five dollars for seventh through twelfth. The older students’ admission includes an after-party from 7:00 to 9:00. Wear your costumes. Face painting is available for three dollars. Candy donations for the haunt can be dropped off this week at the school’s front desk during school hours.

Saturday
The BIC Center’s Pumpkin Walk continues from 11:00 to 7:00. The library’s Halloween party runs from 3:00 to 5:00, with spooky snacks, games and prizes. All are welcome. TUNES hosts a Halloween open house at its studio next to the hardware, with a look inside, cider and sweet treats. Trick-or-treaters can pick up treat bags from 4:30 to 7:30. Everyone is welcome. Trunk or Treat runs from 5:00 to 6:30 at the Gregg Fellowship Center. Prime Rib Night starts at 5:00 at the Shamrock. And, the annual Circle M Halloween Party starts at 8:00. Appetizers appreciated. Costumes encouraged but not required.

Sunday
The Episcopal Mission has services at 9:00 and the Christian Church at 10:00. Mass is at Holy Cross at 12:15.

Looking ahead to coming items of note…
Apex Insurance Services’ Medicare enrollment appointments, postponed because of fog, are now November 5th and 6th. Call 888-858-2739 to schedule.  And, mark your calendars now for the Christmas Bazaar on Sunday November 8^th from 11 to two at the G-F-C.

Winter is coming and so is Christmas. Get ready with the Annual Christmas Bazaar at the GFC on Sunday, November 8^th from 11:00 to 2:00. Graphic from Beaver Island Christian Church

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 Tara.  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: On our list today are Cory Sowa and Yvonne Crandall.  Happy Birthday to Yvonne and Cory 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 save for possible delays south of Bill Wagner Campground on East Side Drive. There are no bridge delays, but look out for leaf peeping delays. Let’s be careful out there. Especially in the school zone.

On this date in 1825, the Erie Canal opens, connecting Lake Erie with the Hudson River—and giving Michigan a powerful new connection to the East Coast. Governor DeWitt Clinton of New York sets out from Buffalo aboard the Seneca Chief to celebrate. The canal makes travel and shipping cheaper, helping bring a wave of settlers to Michigan and opening eastern markets to the Great Lakes region.

Governor Clinton aboard the Seneca Chief with representatives from places along the route of the new canal. Repro. of painting; C.Y. Turner, c1905 from New York State Archives from New York (State). Education Dept. Division of Visual Instruction Instructional lantern slides (A3045-78, Call No. Pa TvO)

Our Merriam-Webster Word of the Day is disparate [DISS-puh-rut], an adjective describing things that are markedly different in character or kind. It can also describe a collection of very different elements. The word comes from a Latin verb meaning to separate or make different and has been used in English since the 1500s. For example: “The Island’s musicians bring disparate styles to the stage, from traditional fiddle tunes to rock and roll.”

Now, to wrap up for this Beaver Island Monday…

Here’s a thought for the day from Governor Dewitt Clinton: “Pleasure is a shadow, wealth is vanity, and power a pageant; but knowledge is ecstatic in enjoyment, perennial in frame, unlimited in space and indefinite in duration.”

And on a lighter note…
Why didn’t the jack-o-lantern cross the road?
Because it was afraid. Turns out it had no guts.

That’s the W-V-B-I Community Calendar Report for this Beaver Island Monday, October 26th, 2026. I’m Kevin Boyle reporting from W-V-B-I’s Langford Family Studios wishing you a great day and asking: why not go ahead and make it the best day ever? And thanks for listening. 

###

WEATHER

[Current Condition Report, then…]

Today
Cloudy through midmorning, then gradual clearing. High near 50. North wind 10 to 15 mph.
Tonight
Partly cloudy. Low around 42 lakeside, 35 inland. North wind 10 to 15 mph.
Tuesday
A 20 percent chance of showers before 9 a.m. Mostly cloudy. High near 54. Southeast wind around 15 mph.
Tuesday Night
Mostly cloudy. Low around 47 lakeside, 41 inland. South wind around 15 mph.
Wednesday
Partly sunny. High near 59. South wind around 15 mph.
Wednesday Night
A 50 percent chance of showers after 2 a.m. Mostly cloudy. Low around 51 lakeside, 46 inland.
Thursday
A 50 percent chance of showers before 2 p.m. Partly sunny. High near 58.
Thursday Night
Partly cloudy. Low around 44 lakeside, 40 inland.
Friday
Mostly sunny. High near 55.
Friday Night
Mostly cloudy. Low around 45 lakeside, 40 inland.
Saturday
Partly sunny. High near 56.
Saturday Night
A chance of showers. Mostly cloudy. Low around 47 lakeside, 43 inland.
Sunday
A chance of showers. Mostly cloudy. High near 57.

Air Quality Index this morning is 55.

Fire Danger: Low

Out on the Big Drink…

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

Today

N wind 10 to 15 kt. Cloudy, then gradually becoming mostly sunny. Waves 1 to 2 ft.

Tuesday

ESE wind 10 to 15 kt. Mostly cloudy. Waves around 1 ft.

Wednesday

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

Thursday

SW wind 10 to 15 kt becoming WNW in the afternoon. Showers likely before 1pm. Waves 1 to 3 ft.

Friday

NW wind 5 to 10 kt. Mostly sunny. Waves 1 ft or less.

Water Temps: 57 at the mid-lake buoy southwest of Gull Island. 56 in the Straits. Sleeping Bear and Little Traverse Bay not reporting.

Photos from webcams at wvbi.net and mackinacbridge.org

Coming up in our Community Calendar Report…

Trump and Obama rally Michigan voters, while Mike Rogers talks tariffs and the Iran war in Traverse City. Plus, Halloween preparations at TUNES, the Queen still hides at the Elks, and a chance to honor Island veterans. Details ahead in your Community Calendar Report.

Those stories along with more local and state news, a run down of local events, birthdays, this date in history, a thought for the day and yet another even worse pumpkin joke are up after this global and national news from F-S-N…

 [Time check.]

Today’s featured image: Decorations and a storm door go up at the TUNES Studio. Today’s Community Calendar Report has a full rundown of Halloween events. Photo by Rob Cole

Michigan’s U-S Senate candidates drew sharp policy contrasts in their final debate last night in Southfield. Republican Mike Rogers backs continued ICE enforcement, while Democrat Abdul El-Sayed calls for replacing the agency and creating a clearer path to citizenship. On Social Security, Rogers emphasizes fighting fraud. El-Sayed warned against benefit cuts and points to Rogers’ past support for partial privatization. On public safety, Rogers favors federal-local enforcement partnerships. El-Sayed supports police recruitment alongside mental-health response and violence prevention. Rogers called El-Sayed too extreme and El-Sayed tied Rogers to President Trump. There’s a link to watch the entire debate in today’s script online.
https://www.youtube.com/live/9WZE5itP1fM?si=9axKvUcuU9k69dB1

#Election2026

With twelve days until Election Day, prediction-market traders favor Democrats in Michigan’s top races. Kalshi and Polymarket put Abdul El-Sayed’s chances of winning the U-S Senate seat at sixty-nine percent. Jocelyn Benson’s chances of winning the governor’s race stand at roughly ninety-two to ninety-three percent. Those numbers reflect money-backed trading—not polling percentages or guaranteed results. Prices change as traders react to news. Election Day is November third.

#Election2026

A chemical tank leak in Toledo closed two Michigan school districts Wednesday. Bedford and Mason Consolidated canceled classes as a shelter-in-place zone extended across the state line. More than fifty thousand people were advised to stay indoors. Toledo officials said Wednesday afternoon the leak was slowing, but explosion concerns kept crews away.

#Environment

Russia has freed Michigan native Stephen Hubbard after more than four years in prison. The seventy-four-year-old retired teacher was designated wrongfully detained by the U-S. President Trump says no prisoners were exchanged for his release Wednesday.
#MichiganNewsGlobal

Beaver Head Lighthouse is closed for the season, with doors locked and new security cameras installed. The Beaver Island Historical Association thanks everyone supporting its restoration, and the community has been reaching out to thank the many volunteers who are working to bring the buildings back into ship shape. Meantime, Peaine Township awaits word from the County on its proposal to purchase it and the former Lighthouse School facilities and land at the south end.

#IslandHistory #Volunteerism

Volunteers accomplished lots of improvements at the Beaver Head Light and keeper’s quarters this season. The building is now closed until next spring. Photo provided by Keith Brothers

BIC Center Board member Catherine Mienstma is once again leading the Friends of Beaver Island AmVets in the Wreaths Across America campaign, which places wreaths on the graves of vets for Veteran’s day. Thirty-eight more wreath sponsorships are needed for the two Island cemeteries. Seventeen dollars will cover one or thirty-four for three. Make checks payable to W-A-A and mail to Box Eight, Beaver Island, to arrive before Thanksgiving, or donate online. Go to donate dot wreaths across America dot org and use the map to locate the Island. There’s a link in today’s script online.

https://www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/Shop/Product/597?tid=FAFEDEA7-D74F-467B-B6DC-E581A64AB17A&pageIds=19520,0&vw=home

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

First, your meeting planner for the rest of the week…

Today
A-A meets at 6:00, with another meeting Saturday at the same time.

That’s it. Locations and more details for meetings are in the calendar entries online.

On the fun front today…

It’s school picture day at B-I-C-S. Women’s Bible Study starts at 10:00 at the Christian Church. Chair Yoga follows at 11:00 at the BIC Center. Burger and a Beer Night starts at 5:00 at the Shamrock, and Euchre at Whiskey Point Brewing Company starts at 7:00. No partner is needed. Apex Insurance Services is on the Island today and tomorrow for Medicare enrollment appointments. Call 888-858-2739 to schedule.

Friday
Senior and Veterans Coffee and Donuts runs from 8:30 to 10:30 in the BIC Center lobby. Chair Strength Training it at 10:30 in the BIC Center Hangout. C-O-A has their Halloween Lunch starting at 11:30. R-S-V-P at 21-24 or by email to B-I Meals at Charlevoix County dot org. It’s also their single on-Island services day with reps at the township hall for help with services and senior meal vouchers.

[On the radio, Friday’s lineup kicks off after the 6:00 news with “That Thing with Rich Appel,” featuring top forty hits from the 70s. At 9:00, “The Titus Jennings Experience” offers music from all genres, followed by “The Midnight Special” with Marilyn Rea Beyer at 11:00.]

Looking ahead at highlights for the coming days…

Saturday
Pickleball is on the schedule at 10:00 at Peaine Township Park. Halloween movies continue at the BIC Center with “Muppets Haunted Mansion” at 3:00, rated P-G, followed by “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” at 6:00, rated R. And its Prime Rib Night at the Shamrock starting at 5:00. And, the library has a Teen Art Night planned starting at 5:00. Snack and paint your designs.

This Friday is Teen Art Night at the library. Ages 13 to 18. Snacks and paint. Graphic from Beaver Island District Library

[On the radio, Country Classics starts at 5:00 Saturday evening with host Sheri Timsak. At 7:00, WVBI’s Adam Pettigrew takes you back to the best of the 80s and 90s with the Mix Tape show. 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
The Episcopal Mission has services at 9:00 and the Christian Church at 10:00. Mass is at Holy Cross at 12:15.

Looking ahead to highlights for next week…

Monday, October 26
Open Hands Breakfast Café returns after its break—a chance to start the week with breakfast and time with your Island neighbors.

Tuesday, October 27
Babies and Toddlers Mix-Up at the library and pickleball at Peaine Township Park both start at 10:00. Chair Strength Training follows at 10:30 in the BIC Center Hangout.

Wednesday, October 28
American Mah Jongg starts at 10:00 in the BIC Center Hangout, followed by Afternoon Bingo at 1:00. At 5:00, Time for Art features pumpkin carving and decorating. Pumpkins and supplies are provided. It’s free for those sixty and older and five dollars for everyone else. Take your creation home or leave it for the BIC Center’s Halloween Pumpkin Walk.

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 Toni.  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: On our list today are Jenna Battle, Candice DeLaat and Aubrey Gillfilan.  Happy Birthday to Aubrey, Candice and Jenna 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 save for possible delays south of Bill Wagner Campground on East Side Drive. There are no bridge delays, but look out for leaf peeping delays. Let’s be careful out there. Especially in the school zone.

On this date in 1929, the railroad ferry Milwaukee leaves its namesake Wisconsin port, bound for Grand Haven across a storm-tossed Lake Michigan. The ship sinks with everyone aboard. Without a radio transmitter, the crew cannot send a distress call. The disaster prompts taller protective gates on other railroad ferries. Divers find the wreck in 1972, in about 120 feet of water. She remains a popular dive site.

Loading rail cars on the Milwaukee. Her sinking with the loss of all passengers and crew leads to a redesign of stern sea gates on Great Lakes ferries that increases their height. Other changes following the disaster were requirements for automatically deploying life rafts and on-board radios. Photo from the Great Lakes Marine Collection of the Milwaukee Public Library and Wisconsin Marine Historical Society

Our Merriam-Webster Word of the Day is vocation [voh-KAY-shun], a noun meaning an occupation or a strong calling to pursue a particular kind of work. It comes from a Latin word meaning “summons,” and originally describes a religious calling when it enters English in the fifteenth century. Today, that calling might lead to teaching, medicine—or a microphone. For example: “What begins as volunteering at the Island radio station becomes a vocation.”

Now, to wrap up for this Beaver Island Thursday…

Here’s a thought for the day from Great Lakes Captain Charlene Munden the first female Captain in the history of Algoma Central Corporation’s fleet: “It’s crucial to remain patient and committed, understanding that every step, no matter how small, contributes to your overall growth.”

And on a lighter note…
What do you call a pumpkin who plays songs on the radio? A jock o’ lantern.

That’s the W-V-B-I Community Calendar Report for this Beaver Island Thursday, October 22nd, 2026. I’m Kevin Boyle reporting from W-V-B-I’s Langford Family Studios wishing you a great day and asking: why not go ahead and make it the best day ever? And thanks for listening. 

###

WEATHER

[Current Condition Report, then…]

Today
Areas of dense fog before noon. Otherwise, mostly sunny, with a high near 57. Northeast wind 5 to 10 mph.
Tonight
Partly cloudy, with temperatures around 53 lakeside and a low around 43 inland. Southeast wind 5 to 10 mph.
Fri
Mostly sunny, with a high near 61. South wind 5 to 10 mph.
Fri Night
Partly cloudy, with a low around 53/48. South wind 5 to 10 mph.
Sat
Partly sunny, with a high near 62. South wind around 15 mph.
Sat Night
Mostly cloudy, with a low around 53/48.
Sun
Mostly cloudy, with a high near 59.
Sun Night
Mostly cloudy, with a low around 45/40.

Air Quality Index this morning was 42.

Fire Danger: Low

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.

Friday

S wind 5 to 10 kt. Mostly sunny. Waves 1 ft or less.

Saturday

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

Sunday

SSW wind 10 to 15 kt becoming NW in the afternoon. Mostly cloudy. Waves 1 to 2 ft.

Monday

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

Water Temps: 57 at the mid-lake buoy southwest of Gull Island. 55 in the Straits. 46 at Sleeping Bear. Little Traverse Bay not reporting.

Photos from webcams at wvbi.net and mackinacbridge.org

Coming up in our Community Calendar Report…

Michigan’s Senate candidates faced off in their final debate last night. We’ll look at what was said and report on what prediction markets say about November outcomes. A Toledo chemical leak closes some Michigan schools, and Russia frees a Michigan teacher. Plus, Beaver Head Lighthouse closes for the season—and thirty-eight more wreath sponsorships are needed to honor Island veterans.

Those stories along with more local and state news, a run down of local events, birthdays, this date in history, a thought for the day and yet another even worse pumpkin joke are up after this global and national news from F-S-N…

 [Time check.]

Today’s featured image: Volunteers accomplished lots of improvements at the Beaver Head Light and keeper’s quarters this season. The building is now closed until next spring. Photo provided by Keith Brothers

Our fellow GLIA Island Neebish up in the St. Marys River is stuck with limited ferry service after their boat lost a rudder while operating in dense fog Tuesday. The Coast Guard is allowing restricted morning and evening runs for about two weeks, when repairs are expected to be completed. Until then, trips will carry no more than eight passenger vehicles, with no trailers or heavy loads, and the trips will depend on daylight, good visibility and winds within safety limits.

Damage to the ferry is limiting access to Neebish Island. Trips are curtailed until the damage is repaired. File photo from Eastern Upper Peninsula Transportation Authority

Now, we continue our look at candidates for the November third election: Republican State Senator John Damoose faces Democrat Kate Gallup in Northern Michigan’s thirty-seventh District, which includes Beaver Island. Gallup supports restrictions on political donations from utilities and major state contractors. Damoose argues the proposal leaves union and dark-money spending untouched. Gallup calls for higher school funding and health coverage for all Michigan residents. Damoose emphasizes stronger education standards and questions the state’s role in universal coverage. They also split on Line Five: Damoose supports the proposed Straits tunnel, while Gallup favors shutting down the pipeline and pursuing alternatives.

#Election2026

In other election news, M-Live reports today that fabricated polls that reached major election websites—may have helped drive a Michigan candidate from the U-S Senate race. MLive reports Wedgewood Polls admits inventing surveys, calling it an experiment exposing weak oversight. Mallory McMorrow says its false numbers helped dry up donations and pushed her toward leaving the Democratic U-S Senate primary. Analysts say the impact is hard to establish. The New York Times has removed fifteen Wedgewood polls.

#Election2026

In Lansing, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel wants regulators to reject Consumers Energy’s sale of thirteen hydroelectric dams, including Hodenpyl and Tippy on the Manistee River. I-P-R reports negotiations stalled over cost and safety concerns. Nessel fears taxpayers could face future liabilities. Consumers says selling to Confluence Hydro is the cheapest option for ratepayers.

#Energy #Environment

Here’s your planner for Halloween festivities:  They start today with a C-O-A lunch planned at Peaine Township Hall starting at 11:30 (assuming it isn’t fogged out). Next Friday at School, at 8:15 in the morning there’s the annual Halloween Costume parade for the grade school kids. Kids should come in with costumes on and parents should plan to take the costumes home after.  Remember: no toy weapons. Then Friday after school, the Student Council has planned a Haunted Hallway from 6:00 to 7:00 for all students. There’s an entry fee of $1 for K through sixth and $5 for seventh through twelfth that includes an after party from 7:00 to 9:00 for seventh to twelfth. Wear your costumes. Face painting will be available for $3. They need candy for the haunt. You can donate that during school hours at the front desk. On Saturday, Halloween itself, the library has a party planned from 3:00 to 5:00 p-m on with spooky snacks, fun games and prizes. All are welcome. There’s Trunk or Treat at the GFC from 5:00 to 6:30. And, TUNES plans a Halloween open house with a look inside its studio, cider and sweet treats. Trick-or-treaters can pick up treat bags from 4:30 to 7:30. Everyone is welcome. The studio is next to the hardware.

#IslandEvents

The hallways at BICS will be haunted next Friday after school well into the evening. You can help make it fun for the kids with a donation of candy, snacks, treats and/or drinks. Drop those off in the school office during school hours. Graphic from BICS Student Council

Finally, a reminder about the Friends of Beaver Island AmVets and their Wreaths Across America campaign, which places wreaths on the graves of vets for the holidays. Seventeen dollars will covers one wreath or thirty-four gets three. Make checks payable to W-A-A and mail to Box Eight, Beaver Island, to arrive before Thanksgiving, or donate online. Go to donate dot wreaths across America dot org and use the map to locate the Island. There’s a link in today’s script online.

https://www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/Shop/Product/597?tid=FAFEDEA7-D74F-467B-B6DC-E581A64AB17A&pageIds=19520,0&vw=home

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

First, your meeting planner for the rest of the week and next week…

Saturday
A-A meets at 6:00, and next week Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday same time.

Locations and more details for meetings are in the calendar entries online.

On the fun front today…

Senior and Veterans Coffee and Donuts runs from 8:30 to 10:30 in the BIC Center lobby. Chair Strength Training starts at 10:30 in the BIC Center Hangout. C-O-A has their Halloween Lunch starting at 11:30. R-S-V-P at 21-24 or by email to B-I Meals at Charlevoix County dot org. It’s also their single on-Island services day, with representatives at the township hall to help with services and senior meal vouchers.

Apex Insurance Services had planned Medicare enrollment appointments on the Island today, but they’ve been rescheduled to November 5th and 6th due to the fog. Call 888-858-2739 to schedule.

[On the radio, tonight’s lineup kicks off after the 6:00 news with “That Thing with Rich Appel,” featuring top forty hits from the seventies. At 9:00, “The Titus Jennings Experience” offers music from all genres, followed by “The Midnight Special” with Marilyn Rea Beyer at 11:00.]

Saturday, October 24
Pickleball starts at 10:00 at Peaine Township Park. Halloween movies continue at the BIC Center with “Muppets Haunted Mansion” at 3:00, rated P-G, followed by “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” at 6:00, rated R. It’s also Prime Rib Night at the Shamrock starting at 5:00. The library has Teen Art Night starting at 5:00 for ages thirteen to eighteen. Enjoy snacks and paint your designs.

Saturday is Teen Art Night at the library. Ages 13 to 18. Snacks and paint. Graphic from Beaver Island District Library.

[On the radio, Country Classics starts at 5:00 Saturday evening with host Sheri Timsak. At 7:00, WVBI’s Adam Pettigrew takes you back to the best of the eighties and nineties with the Mix Tape show. 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, October 25
The Episcopal Mission has services at 9:00 and the Christian Church at 10:00. Mass is at Holy Cross at 12:15.

Looking ahead to highlights for next week…

Monday, October 26
Open Hands Breakfast Café returns after its break—a chance to start the week with breakfast and time with your Island neighbors.

Tuesday, October 27
Babies and Toddlers Mix-Up at the library and pickleball at Peaine Township Park both start at 10:00. Chair Strength Training follows at 10:30 in the BIC Center Hangout.

Wednesday, October 28
American Mah Jongg starts at 10:00 in the BIC Center Hangout, followed by Afternoon Bingo at 1:00. At 5:00, Time for Art features pumpkin carving and decorating. Pumpkins and supplies are provided. It’s free for those sixty and older and five dollars for everyone else. Take your creation home or leave it for the BIC Center’s Halloween Pumpkin Walk.

Thursday, October 29
Women’s Bible Study starts at 10:00 at the Christian Church. Chair Yoga follows at 11:00 at the BIC Center. Burger and a Beer Night starts at 5:00 at the Shamrock. A-A meets at 6:00, and Euchre at Whiskey Point Brewing Company. Cards hit the table at 7:00.

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 Bill.  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: On our list today is Erin Wiser.  Happy Birthday to Erin 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 save for possible delays south of Bill Wagner Campground on East Side Drive. There are no bridge delays, but look out for leaf peeping delays. Let’s be careful out there. Especially in the school zone.

On this date in 1926, Michigan-born minister and women’s rights pioneer Olympia Brown dies at 91. Born in Kalamazoo County, Brown breaks barriers in the pulpit and spends decades campaigning for women’s right to vote. In 1920, at age 85, she casts her first presidential ballot. Today marks 100 years since her death.

Before her death on this day in 1926, Olympia Brown was one of Michigan’s earliest supporters of women’s right to vote. Born in Kalamazoo County and a student at Schoolcraft Academy, she left Michigan for college and her career as a pastor. By 1886, as a result of her persistent work on behalf of women’s suffrage, a law was approved allowing women to vote in school elections. She then resigned her ministry to devote all of her time to women’s rights. Photo from Michigan Women Forward’s Michigan Women’s Hall of Fame

Our Merriam-Webster Word of the Day is asunder [uh-SUN-der], meaning apart or into separate pieces. Something can be physically torn asunder, or a disagreement can tear a friendship asunder. The word traces back to an Old English word meaning apart and has been used in English since the 14th century. For example: “The puppy tore the newspaper asunder before anyone could read the weather forecast.”

Now, to wrap up for this Beaver Island Friday…

Here’s a thought for the day from women’s suffrage champion Olympia Brown: “Success is not measured by the number of accolades we receive, but by the impact we have on others.”

And on a lighter note…
How do gourds get to so strong?

By pumpkin iron.

That’s the W-V-B-I Community Calendar Report for this Beaver Island Friday, October 23rd, 2026. I’m Kevin Boyle reporting from W-V-B-I’s Langford Family Studios wishing you a great day and asking: why not go ahead and make it the best day ever? And thanks for listening. 

###

WEATHER

[Current Condition Report, then…]

Today-Dense Fog Advisory through Noon
Widespread dense fog, mainly before 8 a.m. Otherwise, partly sunny, with a high near 59. South wind 5 to 10 mph.
Tonight
Partly cloudy, with temperatures around 55 lakeside and a low around 48 inland. South wind 5 to 10 mph.
Saturday
Partly sunny, with a high near 62. South wind 10 to 15 mph.
Saturday Night
Mostly cloudy, with a low around 53/49. South wind 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.
Sunday
A 20 percent chance of showers after 2 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 60. Southwest wind 10 to 15 mph becoming northwest in the afternoon.
Sunday Night
Mostly cloudy, with a low around 45/38.
Monday
Mostly cloudy, with a high near 51.
Monday Night
Mostly cloudy, with a low around 41/36.
Tuesday
Partly sunny, with a high near 52.
Tuesday Night
Mostly cloudy, with a low around 44/40.
Wednesday
Partly sunny, with a high near 57.
Wednesday Night
A chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 48/44.
Thursday
A chance of showers. Partly sunny, with a high near 57.

Air Quality Index this morning is up from 42 yesterday to 52.

Fire Danger: Low

Out on the Big Drink…

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

Today

S wind 5 to 10 kt. Patchy dense fog before 10am and patchy fog tonight. Waves 1 ft or less.

Saturday

S wind 10 to 15 kt. Patchy fog before 7am. Waves around 1 ft.

Sunday

SSW wind 5 to 15 kt becoming NW in the afternoon. Mostly cloudy. Waves 1 to 2 ft.

Monday

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

Tuesday

E wind around 10 kt. Partly sunny. Waves 1 ft or less.

Water Temps: 57 at the mid-lake buoy southwest of Gull Island. 55 in the Straits. 46 at Sleeping Bear. Little Traverse Bay not reporting.

Photos from webcams at wvbi.net and mackinacbridge.org

Coming up in our Community Calendar Report…

Neebish Island faces limited ferry service after rudder damage to their boat. Damoose and Gallup differ on schools, health care and Line Five. And fabricated polls raise questions about Michigan’s Senate primary. Plus, a disputed dam sale and your Island Halloween planner. Details in the Community Calendar Report at nine, noon, three and six on W-V-B-I.

Those stories along with more local and state news, a run down of local events, birthdays, this date in history, a thought for the day and yet another even worse pumpkin joke are up after this global and national news from F-S-N…

 [Time check.]

Today’s featured image: The Mackinac Bridge seems to have gone into hiding, perhaps hanging out with the Queen of Hearts at the Elks Lodge. Photo from mackinacbridge.org

Michigan’s U-S Senate candidates both call for changing tariffs on Canada, but differ on President Trump’s broader trade policy. Speaking separately at the Detroit Economic Club Tuesday, Republican Mike Rogers says Canadian tariffs overlook the countries’ closely connected auto industries. But he credits other tariffs with bringing manufacturing home. Democrat Abdul El-Sayed calls Trump’s approach chaotic and says tariffs should help American workers compete. On the economy, Rogers emphasized lower taxes, domestic energy and skilled trades. El-Sayed favors higher taxes on the wealthy, stronger unions and small-business investment. Both say housing shortages hamper Michigan’s growth. They meet for their final debate tonight. You can watch tonight’s debate here on the Island online at W-X-Y-Z dot com starting at seven. There’s a link in today’s script.

https://www.wxyz.com/live

#Election 2026

I-P-R reports this morning that Traverse City commissioners have approved a controversial prowling and park trespass ordinance on a four-to-three vote. The measure, passed yesterday, prohibits prowling after dark on someone else’s private property without permission and lets police ban park rule violators for three days. Supporters cite safety concerns at Hull Park, including an assault on a sailing instructor. Opponents, including the A-C-L-U of Michigan, say the language is vague and could disproportionately affect homeless people. An amendment narrowing the prowling definition failed.

#LawEnforcement #CivilLiberties

Cadillac is seeing a wave of housing development as Wexford County works to address a shortage of nearly thirty-eight hundred homes identified in a 2023 study. The largest project, Lakelynn Apartments, calls for 252 workforce apartments, with completion expected in about three years. The former Cooley School is being converted into twenty-three apartments, while North Lake Street Flats would add forty-eight. Downtown, Cadillac Lofts has completed forty-two rentals, with another fifty-three planned. Developers are using state grants and tax incentives to help finance construction. City officials say the projects could help employers attract workers and give residents more housing options.  M-Live has detailed coverage of the projects in an article published today that’s linked in today’s script online.
https://www.mlive.com/news/2026/10/see-the-4-housing-projects-fueling-the-building-boom-in-one-up-north-town.html
#WorkforceHousing

At the border in Detroit, Canadian authorities say a detector dog helped uncover about 280 pounds of suspected cocaine in a truck crossing from Detroit into Windsor at the Ambassador Bridge. The seizure happened September eleventh and was announced Monday. Two Ontario men face charges of importing cocaine and possession for trafficking.

#LawEnforcement

The group behind the Beaver Island Music Festival is gauging interest in a theater troupe for ages twelve and up. Actors and backstage volunteers are welcome, with a possible production in late winter or early spring. Let us know here at W-V-B-I if you are interested, of respond to the post on Facebook.

#LocalEvents

Expect delays or a temporary closure on East Side Drive today. Today the Charlevoix County Road Commission is replacing a culvert three-quarters of a mile south of Bill Wagner Campground. Work runs from about 8:30 to 1:00. One lane may reopen after 11:00, depending on progress. Plan ahead for trips to and from town, or just plan to use West Side.

#LocalEvents

Rose Cole’s shop just south of school opens Saturday and Sunday, noon to three. Home décor and remaining pole barn sale items are fifty percent off. Use the side door.
#Local Business

Deb Robert’s class is hard at work on Birthday Calendars for the coming year. If you know of someone who lives on BI that would like their name added to the calendar, please let them know. We use the calendar for our W-V-B-I Birthday List. They’ll go on sale at the Christmas Bazaar.

#Fundraisers

Students from Ms. Robert’s class display their Birthday Calendars in 2017. Phot provided by Deb Robert

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

First, your meeting planner for the coming week…

Today
The Beaver Island Airport Commission meets at noon.

Thursday
A-A meets at 6:00, with another meeting Saturday at the same time.

That’s your meeting lineup. Locations and more details are in the calendar entries online.

On the fun front today…

American Mah Jongg starts at 10:00 in the BIC Center Hangout. All skill levels are welcome; bring your 2026 Mah Jongg card if you have one. Afternoon Bingo follows at 1:00. Then at 5:00, it’s Time at the BIC Center for Art with Lois Stipp leading a session on painting. This one is limited to 12 participants. Sign up at the Front Desk.

Thursday
It’s school picture day at B-I-C-S. Pickleball and Women’s Bible Study both start at 10:00, with pickleball at Peaine Township Park and Bible Study at the Christian Church. Chair Yoga follows at 11:00 at the BIC Center. Burger and a Beer Night starts at 5:00 at the Shamrock, and Euchre at Whiskey Point Brewing Company starts at 7:00. No partner is needed.

Apex Insurance Services is on the Island Thursday and Friday for Medicare enrollment appointments. Call 888-858-2739 to schedule.

Looking ahead at highlights for the coming days…

Friday
Senior and Veterans Coffee and Donuts runs from 8:30 to 10:30 in the BIC Center lobby. Pickleball starts at 10:00 at Peaine Township Park, followed by Chair Strength Training at 10:30 in the BIC Center Hangout. The C-O-A hosts a Halloween lunch at Peaine Township Hall at 11:30. R-S-V-P at 21-24 or by email to B-I Meals at Charlevoix County dot org.

[On the radio, Friday’s lineup kicks off after the 6:00 news with “That Thing with Rich Appel,” featuring top forty hits from the 70s. At 9:00, “The Titus Jennings Experience” offers music from all genres, followed by “The Midnight Special” with Marilyn Rea Beyer at 11:00.]

Saturday
Pickleball starts at 10:00 at Peaine Township Park. Halloween movies continue at the BIC Center with “Muppets Haunted Mansion” at 3:00, rated P-G, followed by “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” at 6:00, rated R. And it’s Prime Rib Night at the Shamrock starting at 5:00.

[On the radio, Country Classics starts at 5:00 Saturday evening with host Sheri Timsak. At 7:00, WVBI’s Adam Pettigrew takes you back to the best of the 80s and 90s with the Mix Tape show. 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
The Episcopal Mission has services at 9:00 and the Christian Church at 10:00. Mass is at Holy Cross at 12:15.

Looking ahead to highlights for next week…

Monday, October 26
Open Hands Breakfast Café returns after its break—a chance to start the week with breakfast and time with your Island neighbors.

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 Collin.  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: On our list today are Jenna Butler, Captain Kevin McDonough, Joe Bousquet and Terry Shepardson.  Happy Birthday to Jenna, Terry, Joe and Kevin 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 save for possible delays south of Bill Wagner Campground on East Side Drive. There are no bridge delays, but look out for leaf peeping delays. Let’s be careful out there. Especially in the school zone.

On this date in 1970, President Richard Nixon signs the law establishing Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. The protected area includes a 35-mile stretch of Lake Michigan’s eastern shoreline and North and South Manitou Islands. Michigan Senator Philip Hart helps lead the effort to preserve its dunes, forests and beaches. The park’s visitor center in Empire bears his name.

Concerns about development and use of the dunes spurred creation of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in 1970. Image created by WVBI using AI and post card photo by Phil Balyeat as inspiration

Our Merriam-Webster Word of the Day is jilt [JILT], a verb meaning to suddenly reject someone, especially by ending a romantic relationship. Its roots may trace to an old nickname for Gillian, which eventually became a word for someone who casts a lover aside. Today, jilt also applies beyond romance: “After years of loyalty, the customer jilted his cable company for a streaming service.”

Now, to wrap up for this Beaver Island Wednesday…

Here’s a thought for the day from Senator Phil Hart reflecting on the Senate during his time in office in the 70s: “You know, the trouble is we believe all the things we say about each other in here.”

And on a lighter note…
What did the sweet potato say to the pumpkin?

“I yam what I yam.”

That’s the W-V-B-I Community Calendar Report for this Beaver Island Wednesday, October 21st, 2026. I’m Kevin Boyle reporting from W-V-B-I’s Langford Family Studios wishing you a great day and asking: why not go ahead and make it the best day ever? And thanks for listening. 

###

WEATHER

[Current Condition Report, then…]

Today
Increasing clouds, with a high near 60. Southwest wind 10 to 15 mph.
Tonight
Partly cloudy, with a low around 47/40. West wind around 5 mph becoming north after midnight.
Thursday
Mostly sunny, with a high near 57. Northeast wind 5 to 10 mph.
Thursday Night
Partly cloudy, with a low around 48/40. Southeast wind 5 to 10 mph.
Friday
Sunny, with a high near 60. South wind around 10 mph.
Friday Night
Partly cloudy, with a low around 51/45.
Saturday
Partly sunny, with a high near 61.
Saturday Night
Mostly cloudy, with a low around 52/46.
Sunday
A chance of showers between 8am and 2pm. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 58.
Sunday Night
Mostly cloudy, with a low around 44/35.
Monday
Partly sunny, with a high near 51.
Monday Night
Mostly cloudy, with a low around 40/33.
Tuesday
Partly sunny, with a high near 50.

Air Quality Index this morning was 24.

Fire Danger: Low

Out on the Big Drink…

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

Today

SW wind 5 to 10 kt. Increasing clouds. Waves around 1 ft.

Thursday

Variable winds 5 kt or less. Patchy fog before 11am. Waves 1 ft or less.

Friday

S wind 5 to 10 kt. Sunny. Waves 1 ft or less.

Saturday

S wind 10 to 15 kt. Mostly sunny. Waves 1 to 2 ft.

Sunday

SW wind 10 to 15 kt becoming WNW in the afternoon. A chance of showers. Waves 1 to 3 ft.

Water Temps: 57 at the mid-lake buoy southwest of Gull Island. 55 in the Straits. 52 at 4:30 this morning at Sleeping Bear. Little Traverse Bay not reporting.

Photos from webcams at wvbi.net and mackinacbridge.org

Coming up in our Community Calendar Report…

Culvert work could slow your trip to town today, and a Beaver Island theater troupe could be in the works. Plus, Michigan’s Senate candidates talk trade ahead of tonight’s debate, Traverse City approves controversial policing rules, and a look at how Cadillac is attacking its housing shortage.

Those stories along with more local and state news, a run down of local events, birthdays, this date in history, a thought for the day and yet another even worse pumpkin joke are up after this global and national news from F-S-N…

 [Time check.]

Today’s featured image: Concerns about development and use of the dunes spurred creation of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in 1970. Image created by WVBI using AI and post card photo by Phil Balyeat as inspiration

Thee Island saw another extended T-D-S outage than ran from Sunday evening into Monday morning. The almost 12-hour outage has not been explained, but once again left many Islanders without phone or internet service, and complicated calls for emergency services with 9-1-1 not operable. The Island’s townships, through the Joint Telecommunications Advisory Committee, which I chair, are investigating ballot proposal that would support implementation of a community owned fiber system that would be designed to be more reliable than the service provided by T-D-S. If the townships decide to proceed, the proposal would be on ballots next spring.

#IslandServices

Michigan Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed’s weekend exchange with a questioner has gone viral after he said he “absolutely” disavows the Muslim Brotherhood. He challenged the question’s motivation, arguing that his Muslim faith does not imply divided loyalties. Critics question that response against the backdrop of his Middle East positions and campaign appearances with streamer Hasan Piker. Bridge Michigan found no direct evidence that El-Sayed pledged support to the Brotherhood. He has explicitly condemned Hamas’s October seventh attack, but declined to identify Iran as a greater threat than Israel, calling both dangerous. In a leaked March campaign call, he said he wanted to avoid commenting on Iranian leader Ali Khamenei’s [ah-LEE hah-meh-NAY-eez] death because people in Dearborn were sad. Piker said “America deserved 9/11,” later calling his wording inappropriate. El-Sayed has rejected Piker’s comments about Jewish Americans. Critics also point to his support for defunding police in 2020, when he advocated shifting money toward social services. His later denial that he ever called for defunding contradicts his recorded remarks. He now says he supports more funding to hire and retain officers, alongside mental-health services and violence prevention.

#Election2026

Meanwhile, El-Sayed has been targeting Mike Rogers’ surveillance record, blaming his Patriot Act support for Flock license-plate cameras. Rogers has supported the Patriot Act, in repeated votes while in Congress, but Bridge Michigan says the claim that he supports Flock cameras and has brought them to Michigan is misleading: federal grants supported by the Patriod Act helped fund the readers, but Flock launched after Rogers left Congress. Rogers opposes unchecked tracking of law-abiding citizens and says local governments should set safeguards.

#Election2026

After a blustery weekend, the weather looks sublime state-wide for the balance of the week, though we will see some cool overnights. M-Live forecasters say mild, dry weather will hold across Michigan through Friday, with mostly sunny skies and light winds. Highs will reach the upper fifties to low sixties in the U-P, and mid-sixties to near seventy in the Lower Peninsula. On the Island,  while we dropped to the mid-30s last night, our overnight lows will be un the 40s with highs in the upper 60s.

#Weather

With the big bag day fast approaching, here’s some information for your Halloween plans:  The C-O-A has a lunch planned for this Friday at Peaine Township Hall starting at 11:30. R-S-V-P at 21-24 or by email to B-I Meals at Charlevoix County dot org.  Next Friday at School, the Student Council has planned a Haunted Hallway from 6:00 to 7:00 for students. There’s a an entry fee of $1 for K through sixth and $5 for seventh through twelfth that includes an after party from 7:00 to 9:00 for seventh to twelfth. Wear your costumes. Face painting, too, for $3. You can donate candy for the event during school hours. On Saturday, Halloween itself, the library has a party planned from 3:00 to 5:00 p-m on with spooky snacks, fun games and prizes. All are welcome. There’s Trunk or Treat at the GFC from 5:00 to 6:30. And, TUNES plans a Halloween open house with a look inside its studio, cider and sweet treats. Trick-or-treaters can pick up treat bags from 4:30 to 7:30. Everyone is welcome. The studio is next to the hardware.

mailto:bimeals@charlevoixcounty.org

#IslandEvents

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

First, your meeting planner for the coming week…

Today
The Waste Management Committee meets at 1:30. The Beaver Island Association Board meets at 4:00. A-A meets at 6:00, with meetings Thursday and Saturday at the same time.

Wednesday
The Beaver Island Airport Commission meets at noon.

That’s your meeting lineup. Locations and more details are in the calendar entries online.

On the fun front today…

Babies and Toddlers Mix-Up at the library and pickleball at Peaine Township Park both start at 10:00. Chair Strength Training follows at 10:30 in the BIC Center Hangout. This evening, Let’s Get Quizzical trivia returns to the BIC Center Hangout at 6:00. It’s free to play. Have one person register your team.

Wednesday
American Mah Jongg starts at 10:00 in the BIC Center Hangout. All skill levels are welcome; bring your 2026 Mah Jongg card if you have one. Afternoon Bingo follows at 1:00. Then at 5:00, it’s Time at the BIC Center for Art with Lois Stipp leading a session on painting. This one is limited to 12 participants. Sign up at the Front Desk.

Looking ahead at highlights for the coming days…

Thursday
It’s school picture day at B-I-C-S. Pickleball and Women’s Bible Study both start at 10:00, with pickleball at Peaine Township Park and Bible Study at the Christian Church. Chair Yoga follows at 11:00 at the BIC Center. Burger and a Beer Night starts at 5:00 at the Shamrock, and Euchre at Whiskey Point Brewing Company starts at 7:00. No partner is needed.

Apex Insurance Services is on the Island Thursday and Friday for Medicare enrollment appointments. Call 888-858-2739 to schedule.

Friday
Senior and Veterans Coffee and Donuts runs from 8:30 to 10:30 in the BIC Center lobby. Pickleball starts at 10:00 at Peaine Township Park, followed by Chair Strength Training at 10:30 in the BIC Center Hangout. The C-O-A hosts a Halloween lunch at Peaine Township Hall at 11:30. R-S-V-P at 21-24 or by email to B-I Meals at Charlevoix County dot org.

[On the radio, Friday’s lineup kicks off after the 6:00 news with “That Thing with Rich Appel,” featuring top forty hits from the 70s. At 9:00, “The Titus Jennings Experience” offers music from all genres, followed by “The Midnight Special” with Marilyn Rea Beyer at 11:00.]

Saturday
Pickleball starts at 10:00 at Peaine Township Park. Halloween movies continue at the BIC Center with “Muppets Haunted Mansion” at 3:00, rated P-G, followed by “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” at 6:00, rated R. And it’s Prime Rib Night at the Shamrock starting at 5:00.

[On the radio, Country Classics starts at 5:00 Saturday evening with host Sheri Timsak. At 7:00, WVBI’s Adam Pettigrew takes you back to the best of the 80s and 90s with the Mix Tape show. 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
The Episcopal Mission has services at 9:00 and the Christian Church at 10:00. Mass is at Holy Cross at 12:15.

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 Leroy.  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: On our list today are Emily Gray, Jayne Koziej, Laney Purdue and Ryan Smith.  Happy Birthday to Laney, Jayne, Emily and Ryan 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. There are no bridge delays. But it is busy in town when the ferry arrives and there are folks soon be out leaf peeping. So, let’s be careful out there.

On this date in 1803, the U-S Senate approves the Louisiana Purchase treaty by a vote of twenty-four to seven. For fifteen million dollars, the United States buys a vast territory from France, doubling the nation’s size. The deal opens the way for westward expansion, with land that eventually becomes all or part of fifteen states.

The Louisiana Purchase included 820,000 square miles that would eventually be split among the 16 states whose borders are outlined in black. This map was created for the centennial of the Louisiana Purchase in 1903. Image from Docs Teach using images from the National Archives

Today’s Merriam-Webster Word of the Day is compunction [kum-PUNK-shun], a noun meaning a feeling of guilt or regret, or an uneasy doubt about something you’re considering. It often appears in phrases such as “without compunction.” Its Latin roots mean to prick or sting—an apt description of a nagging conscience. For example: “He took the last doughnut on Friday without compunction, then volunteered to bring next week’s.”

Now, to wrap up for this Beaver Island Tuesday…

Here’s a thought for the day from President Thomas Jefferson about the Louisiana Purchase: “Negotiation is the art of turning a local interest into a national triumph.”

And on a lighter note…
What do you call a man wearing a pumpkin hat?

Gourdon.

That’s the W-V-B-I Community Calendar Report for this Beaver Island Tuesday, October 20th, 2026. I’m Kevin Boyle reporting from W-V-B-I’s Langford Family Studios wishing you a great day and asking: why not go ahead and make it the best day ever? And thanks for listening. 

###

WEATHER

[Current Condition Report, then…]

Today
Sunny, with a high near 61. East wind 10 to 15 mph.
Tonight
Mostly clear, with lows around 52 lakeside and 47 inland. East wind around 10 mph becoming south after midnight.
Wed
Sunny, with a high near 61. Southwest wind 10 to 15 mph.
Wed Night
Partly cloudy, with lows around 51 lakeside and 45 inland.
Thu
Sunny, with a high near 59.
Thu Night
Mostly clear, with lows around 50 lakeside and 46 inland.
Fri
Sunny, with a high near 59.
Fri Night
Partly cloudy, with lows around 51 lakeside and 47 inland.
Sat
Partly sunny, with a high near 61.
Sat Night
Mostly cloudy, with lows around 52 lakeside and 49 inland.
Sun
Partly sunny, with a high near 59.

Air Quality Index this morning was 0.

Fire Danger: Low

Out on the Big Drink…

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

Tuesday

ESE wind 5 to 10 kt becoming ENE in the afternoon. Sunny. Waves 1 ft or less.

Wednesday

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

Thursday

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

Friday

SSE wind 5 to 10 kt. Sunny. Waves 1 ft or less.

Water Temps: 57 at the mid-lake buoy southwest of Gull Island. 54 in the Straits. Sleeping Bear and Little Traverse Bay not reporting.

Photos from webcams at wvbi.net and mackinacbridge.org

Coming up in our Community Calendar Report…

Another lengthy T-D-S outage leaves Islanders disconnected and disrupts 9-1-1 access. We’ll update the community fiber discussion, examine claims in Michigan’s Senate race, and look ahead to sunshine and Halloween fun.

Those stories along with more local and state news, a run down of local events, birthdays, this date in history, a thought for the day and yet another even worse pumpkin joke are up after this global and national news from F-S-N…

 [Time check.]

Today’s featured image: What a difference a day makes. Midday Sunday and sunset Monday evening in the middle of Lake Michigan. Photo composites from North Lake Michigan Buoy provided by the National Data Buoy Center

It was a blustery weekend with 9 foot plus waves in the forecast between here and Charlevoix. The wind blew hard on the Island, stirring up whitecaps all over the lake, but especially on the west side.  But, there were few reports of any trees downed across roads and just a few power blips. This morning, G-L-E reports no outages on the Island and only one outage system-wide.

#IslandServices

GLE Outage map from 8:00 this morning showed no Island customers without power and just one outage system-wide. Graphic from GLE

The blustery winds didn’t deter Island No-Kings marchers who came out Saturday morning to encourage people to get out to vote. And, that serves as a reminder that today is Michigan’s deadline to register online or by mail for the November third election. But, mailed applications must be postmarked by today, so unless you are on the mainland where you can get today’s postmark, online is the only option. Visit M-I dot gov slash vote to get started. After today, you can still register in person at your township clerk’s office, with proof of residency, through Election Day.

#Election2026

The sun sets over High Island with whitecaps on the waves roaring into Donegal Bay last evening. Photo by Kevin Boyle

With the big bag day fast approaching, here’s some information for your Halloween plans:  The C-O-A has a lunch planned for Friday at Peaine Township Hall starting at 11:30. R-S-V-P at 21-24 or by email to B-I Meals at Charlevoix County dot org.  Also Friday at School, the Student Council has planned a Haunted Hallway from 6:00 to 7:00 for students. There’s a an entry fee of $1 for K through sixth and $5 for seventh through twelfth that includes an after party from 7:00 to 9:00 for seventh to twelfth. Wear your costumes. Face painting, too, for $3. You can donate candy for the event during school hours. On Saturday, Halloween itself, the library has a party planned from 3:00 to 5:00 p-m on with spooky snacks, fun games and prizes. All are welcome. There’s Trunk or Treat at the GFC from 5:00 to 6:30. And, TUNES plans a Halloween open house with a look inside its studio, cider and sweet treats. Trick-or-treaters can pick up treat bags from 4:30 to 7:30. Everyone is welcome. The studio is next to the hardware.

mailto:bimeals@charlevoixcounty.org

#IslandEvents

The hallways at BICS will be haunted next Friday after school well into the evening. You can help make it fun for the kids with a donation of candy, snacks, treats and/or drinks. Drop those off in the school office during school hours. Graphic from BICS Student Council

And, one more thing: The Queen is still in hiding at the Elks. Lisa Gillespie won the draw on Saturday, but picked the Ace of Diamonds. She takes home a $500 consolation prize. The pot is now $20,265.

#Fundraising

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

First, your meeting planner for the coming week…

Tuesday
The Waste Management Committee meets at 1:30. The Beaver Island Association Board meets at 4:00. A-A meets at 6:00 at the Christian Church, with meetings there Thursday and Saturday at the same time.

Wednesday
The Beaver Island Airport Commission meets at noon.

That’s your meeting lineup. Locations and more details are in the calendar entries online.

On the fun front today…

Senior Tai Chi starts at 10:30 in the BIC Center Hangout.

Tuesday
Babies and Toddlers Mix-Up at the library and pickleball at Peaine Township Park both start at 10:00. Chair Strength Training follows at 10:30 in the BIC Center Hangout. Tuesday evening, Let’s Get Quizzical trivia returns to the BIC Center Hangout at 6:00. It’s free to play. Have one person register your team.

Looking ahead at highlights for the coming days…

Wednesday
American Mah Jongg starts at 10:00 in the BIC Center Hangout. All skill levels are welcome; bring your 2026 Mah Jongg card if you have one. Afternoon Bingo follows at 1:00. Then at 5:00, it’s Time for Art with Cindy Ricksgers at the BIC Center. No experience is necessary.

Thursday
It’s school picture day at B-I-C-S. Pickleball and Women’s Bible Study both start at 10:00, with pickleball at Peaine Township Park and Bible Study at the Christian Church. Chair Yoga follows at 11:00 at the BIC Center. Burger and a Beer Night starts at 5:00 at the Shamrock, and Euchre at Whiskey Point Brewing Company starts at 7:00. No partner is needed.

Apex Insurance Services is on the Island Thursday and Friday for Medicare enrollment appointments. Call 888-858-2739 to schedule.

Friday
Senior and Veterans Coffee and Donuts runs from 8:30 to 10:30 in the BIC Center lobby. Pickleball starts at 10:00 at Peaine Township Park, followed by Chair Strength Training at 10:30 in the BIC Center Hangout. The C-O-A hosts a Halloween lunch at Peaine Township Hall at 11:30. R-S-V-P at 21-24 or by email to B-I Meals at Charlevoix County dot org.

[On the radio, Friday’s lineup kicks off after the 6:00 news with “That Thing with Rich Appel,” featuring top forty hits from the 70s. At 9:00, “The Titus Jennings Experience” offers music from all genres, followed by “The Midnight Special” with Marilyn Rea Beyer at 11:00.]

Saturday
Pickleball starts at 10:00 at Peaine Township Park. Halloween movies continue at the BIC Center with “Muppets Haunted Mansion” at 3:00, rated P-G, followed by “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” at 6:00, rated R. And it’s Prime Rib Night at the Shamrock starting at 5:00.

[On the radio, Country Classics starts at 5:00 Saturday evening with host Sheri Timsak. At 7:00, WVBI’s Adam Pettigrew takes you back to the best of the 80s and 90s with the Mix Tape show. 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
The Episcopal Mission has services at 9:00 and the Christian Church at 10:00. Mass is at Holy Cross at 12:15.

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 Morgan.  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: Our list today is empty.  But, if we missed you on the list, Happy Birthday to you from everyone at the BIC Center and WVBI.

TRAFFIC: No delays inbound or outbound to the airports. The Island Beltway is running smoothly. There are no bridge delays. But it is busy in town when the ferry arrives and there are folks soon be out leaf peeping. So, let’s be careful out there.

On this date in 1982, Detroit native and former General Motors executive John DeLorean is arrested in a federal cocaine sting. Prosecutors accuse him of trying to finance his struggling car company through a drug deal. A jury acquits him in 1984 after an entrapment defense. A year later, his stainless-steel sports car finds lasting fame as the time machine in “Back to the Future.”

Our Merriam-Webster Word of the Day is fervid [FER-vid], an adjective describing intense emotion or enthusiasm. A passionate speech or an especially excited crowd might be called fervid. Its roots go back to a Latin verb meaning “to boil,” which also gives us ferment. While fervent often describes steady, sincere feelings, fervid suggests emotion bubbling over. For example: “The fervid fans kept cheering long after the final whistle.”

Now, to wrap up for this Beaver Island Monday…

Here’s a thought for the day from Back to the Future’s  Dr. Emmett Brown: “Your future is whatever you make it. So make it a good one.”

And on a lighter note…
What do you call a pumpkin that works at the beach?

A life gourd.

That’s the W-V-B-I Community Calendar Report for this Beaver Island Monday, October 19th, 2026. I’m Kevin Boyle reporting from W-V-B-I’s Langford Family Studios wishing you a great day and asking: why not go ahead and make it the best day ever? And thanks for listening. 

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WEATHER

[Current Condition Report, then…]

Today
Sunny, with a high near 60. West wind 5 to 10 mph becoming north in the afternoon.
Tonight
Mostly clear, with lows around 50 lakeside and 44 inland. North wind around 10 mph.
Tue
Sunny, with a high near 61. East wind 10 to 15 mph.
Tue Night
Mostly clear, with lows around 52 lakeside and 47 inland. East wind around 10 mph becoming south after midnight.
Wed
Sunny, with a high near 61. Southwest wind 10 to 15 mph.
Wed Night
Partly cloudy, with lows around 51 lakeside and 45 inland.
Thu
Sunny, with a high near 59.
Thu Night
Mostly clear, with lows around 50 lakeside and 46 inland.
Fri
Sunny, with a high near 59.
Fri Night
Partly cloudy, with lows around 51 lakeside and 47 inland.
Sat
Partly sunny, with a high near 61.
Sat Night
Mostly cloudy, with lows around 52 lakeside and 49 inland.
Sun
Partly sunny, with a high near 59.

Air Quality Index this morning was 7.

Fire Danger: Low

Out on the Big Drink…

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

Today

W wind 5 to 15 kt becoming N in the afternoon. Sunny. Waves 4 ft subsiding to 1 ft.

Tuesday

ESE wind 5 to 10 kt becoming ENE in the afternoon. Sunny. Waves 1 ft or less.

Wednesday

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

Thursday

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

Friday

SSE wind 5 to 10 kt. Sunny. Waves 1 ft or less.

Water Temps: 53 at the mid-lake buoy southwest of Gull Island. 57 at Sleeping Bear. 56 in the Straits. Little Traverse Bay not reporting.

Photos from webcams at wvbi.net and mackinacbridge.org

Coming up in our Community Calendar Report…

Wind and whitecaps batter Beaver Island, but power disruptions are few. No Kings marchers brave the weather as an election registration deadline arrives. Plus, Halloween plans for Island families—and the Queen stays hidden as the Elks pot tops twenty thousand dollars.

Those stories along with more local and state news, a run down of local events, birthdays, this date in history, a thought for the day and yet another even worse pumpkin joke are up after this global and national news from F-S-N…

 [Time check.]

Today’s featured image: The sun sets over High Island with whitecaps on the waves roaring into Donegal Bay last evening. Photo by Kevin Boyle