WVBI

As waters recede from last week’s historic flooding across northern Michigan, experts and local leaders are warning more action is needed on aging dams. More than half of the state’s 2,500 dams are past their 50-year design life, with an estimated $1 billion needed for upgrades or removals. Recent flooding is being called a wake-up call, especially as climate change brings more extreme weather. Some projects—like dam removals in Traverse City—helped reduce damage, but officials say stronger safety rules and more funding will be key to preventing future disasters.

Meanwhile, the legal fight over the Edenville dam failure isn’t over. A law firm representing about 2,000 property owners says it will appeal after a judge ruled the state isn’t liable because the dam was privately owned. Attorney Ven Johnson says the case will now head to the Michigan Supreme Court, calling the decision a troubling precedent. State officials maintain they weren’t responsible, but say they’re working to strengthen dam safety and prevent future disasters.

Voters in Michigan’s Great Lakes Bay region head to the polls Tuesday in a high-stakes special election that could shift control of the state Senate. The seat has been vacant for nearly 500 days, and a Republican win would create a 19–19 tie, potentially slowing action in Lansing. Democrats are backing Saginaw firefighter Chedrick Greene, while Republicans support attorney Jason Tunney. The outcome could shape the legislative agenda heading into a critical election year.

Got household hazardous waste piling up? Now’s the time to clear it out safely. Items like drain cleaners, paint, antifreeze, solvents, and even some personal care products can be dropped off at the Transfer Station today and tomorrow. Most items are accepted at no charge—latex paint is $13 per gallon. Hours are 8 to 5 both days. For details, call 2228.

And, in our winter isn’t over just yet department, freeze warnings and frost advisories continue across northwest Lower Michigan including the Island, with the coldest temps expected Friday night into Saturday morning. Inland areas could drop into the low 20s, bringing a hard freeze. Daytime highs will stay in the 40s through Saturday, with a brief warm-up into Sunday before cooler weather returns next week.

Temperatures will again drop below freezing across a vast majority of northern Michigan tonight with overnight lows in the middle 20s to low 30s. Expect more sub-freezing conditions Saturday night. Graphic from NWS Gaylord Office

The forecast notwithstanding, the Keweenaw Peninsula’s visitors office has called an official end to the season, at least for tallying up snowfall. They recorded 360.3 inches of snow, the most in 20 years, but not breaking the record set in 1978-79 of 390.4 inches.

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

First your meeting planner…

A-A meets Saturday at 6:00. Next week Peaine Township Planning Commission meets Tuesday at 5:00. B-I-C-S Committee of the Whole meets Wednesday at 5:30. A-A meets Tuesday, Thursday and next Saturday at 6:00. Locations and more details are in the calendar entries online.

On the fun front today…

Friday, Senior + Vets Coffee & Donuts is at the BIC Center from 9:00 to 11:00.  There’s Pickleball at 10:00 and Chair Strength Training at 10:30. Friday evening the Flower Full Moon will shine over Paradise Bay. There’s more info at Dark Sky Island dot org.

[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 Fiero Code Club is on at the library at 1:00. The Elks Lodge will be open to all this Saturday for a Derby Day celebration.  There’ll be brats & dogs on the grill. Wear your Derby Hat. The Queen of Hearts draw will be at 7:00. And, remember, Saturdays 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 Christian Church at 10:00 and mass at Holy Cross at 12:15.

Looking ahead to highlights for next week…

Monday kicks off a new series of Monday Funday programs start at the BIC Center.  There’ll be afterschool crafting at 3:30, and an artist’s workshop at 5:00.  This week the workshop will be on Fairy Doors and Seed Sharing led by Christine McKenna and Monica Longlett. After fun at the BIC Center, head over to the Shamrock where Monday’s are All You Can Eat Pizza and Salad night.

Tuesday at 10:00, Babes & Toddlers mix it up at the library and there is Pickleball in the Theater at the BIC Center and, at 10:30, there’s Chair Strength Training up in the Hangout. At 2:15 there’s a Home School Meet-up at the library.

Wednesday, there’s BINGO at 1:00 at the BIC Center. And at 5:00 it’s Time for Art, at the BIC Center. In our Dark Skies, the annual Eta Aquariid meteor shower will be flying. There’s more info at Dark Sky Island dot org.

Thursday Women’s Bible Study is on at 10:00 at the Christian Church. There’s Pickleball at the BIC Center at 10:00 in the Theater. At 10:30 up in the Hangout there’s Senior Tai Chi. At 11:00 at the BIC Center, there’ll be a Microgreens Luncheon with Tacos, Tamales, Rice, Beans and desert. Three bucks for seniors and six for others. Thursday evening, there’s Pickleball at 5:00 in the Theater at the BIC Center. Afterwards, you can grab the burger & a beer special at the Shamrock starting at 5:00, and its Euchre Night down at Whiskey Point Brewing. Cards hit the table at 7:00.

[Thursday evening on the radio, drop in for W-V-B-I’s newest music show. It’s The Underground with Leila Freijy. It’s the underground sound of grunge and more from the 80s and 90s with special features every week. Tune in at 7:00 for two hours Underground.]

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

On our Birthday List today: Krys Lyle, Susan Myers, Rachel Teague, Ruby Antinori and Jason Selby are celebrating today. Happy Birthday to Ruby, Rachel, Susan, Krys and Jason, 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. Still, let’s be careful out there, especially in the school zone.

On this date in 1961, just weeks after Cuban forces repelled the U.S.-backed Bay of Pigs invasion, Fidel Castro formally declared Cuba a socialist nation—and made clear there would be no elections, saying “[t]he revolution has no time for elections.” Also on this day in 1945, as the Soviets take the city and prepare to raise their flag over the Reich Chancellery in Berlin, the German people are informed that “our leader, Adolf Hitler, has fallen for Germany, fighting to his last breath against Bolshevism.” In fact, Hitler had committed suicide.

Soviet soldier raises the Russian flag over the Reichstag on May 2, 1945.Although the photo was staged, it became an iconic symbol of Germany’s defeat. Photo by Yevgeny Khaldei from TAAS via Wikimedia

Our Merriam-Webster Word of the Day is Beltane (noun) [BEL-tayn], a Celtic May Day festival marking the start of summer, falling about halfway between the spring equinox and the summer solstice. For the ancient Celts, it was a time when the boundary between the human and supernatural worlds was believed to thin, and people took steps to protect themselves from enchantment. Traditions included driving cattle between twin bonfires for protection from disease. The word dates back to at least the 15th century in English, with earlier roots in Ireland—appearing in a glossary attributed to Cormac, an Irish king and bishop from around the 9th century.

Now, to wrap up for this Beaver Island Friday…

Here’s a thought for the day from Cormac Mac Airt: “I was a listener in woods, I was a gazer at stars.”

On a lighter note: If April showers bring May flowers, what do May flowers bring?  Pilgrims.

That’s the W-V-B-I Community Calendar Report for this Beaver Island Friday, May 1, 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.

###

Today

A chance of snow showers and sleet before 1pm, then a chance of rain and snow showers between 1pm and 3pm, then a chance of rain showers after 3pm. Areas of frost before 10am. Otherwise, partly sunny, with a high near 42/44. Northwest wind around 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 30%.

Tonight-Freeze Watch

Mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming clear, with a low around 32/31. Northwest wind 10 to 15 mph.

Saturday

Sunny, with a high near 42/48. Northwest wind 10 to 15 mph becoming southwest in the afternoon.

Saturday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 36. Southwest wind around 10 mph.

Sunday

A 20 percent chance of showers after 2pm. Partly sunny, with a high near 46/50. Southwest wind 10 to 15 mph.

Sunday Night

Mostly cloudy, with a low around 39.

Monday

A 50 percent chance of showers after 2pm. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 49/53.

Monday Night

A chance of showers before 2am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 37. Breezy.

Tuesday

Partly sunny, with a high near 44/47.

Tuesday Night

Mostly cloudy, with a low around 35.

Wednesday

Partly sunny, with a high near 45/48.

Wednesday Night

Mostly cloudy, with a low around 35.

Thursday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 46/49.

Town: https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lon=-85.52&lat=45.748
Mid-Island: https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lon=-85.531&lat=45.676

Out on the Big Drink …

Today

NNW wind around 10 kt. A slight chance of showers between 3pm and 4pm. Waves 1 ft or less.

Saturday

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

Sunday

SSW wind 10 to 15 kt. A slight chance of showers after 1pm. Waves 1 to 2 ft.

Monday

SSW wind 15 to 20 kt, with gusts as high as 25 kt. A chance of showers after 1pm. Waves 1 ft building to 4 ft.

Tuesday

W wind around 10 kt. Partly sunny. Waves around 1 ft.

Midway to Charlevoix: https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lon=-85.384&lat=45.532

Air Quality Index at 7:00 this morning was 0.

https://map.purpleair.com/air-quality-standards-us-epa-aqi?select=231959&opt=%2F1%2Flp%2Fa10%2Fp604800%2FcC0#8.89/45.4098/-85.4576

   Photos from webcams at wvbi.net and mackinacbridge.org

Coming up in our Community Calendar Report…

Northern Michigan’s flooding is raising new concerns about aging dams, with calls for upgrades and stronger safety rules. Meantime, a dam failure case from severl years ago is headed for appeal. We’ve got details. Also, a key state Senate race Tuesday could shift power in Lansing. And, hazardous waste drop-off is this weekend—plus freeze warnings continue tonight.

…those stories plus school news, a run-down of local meetings and events, birthdays, our word of the day and more after global and national news from F-S-N. [Time check.]

Today’s Featured Image: It’s going to be another nippy night on the Island and all around us with a freeze warning in effect. Graphic from NWS Gaylord Office

Michigan’s budget battle is underway, as the state Senate passes the first piece of its $88 billion spending plan. The proposal boosts funding for things like school meals, housing, and social services—but it also spends more than the House version—12 billion more—setting up a major negotiation. Lawmakers say federal cuts are forcing Michigan to pick up more of the tab, especially for Medicaid and food assistance. Republicans are pushing back, raising concerns about higher spending and dipping into the state’s rainy-day fund. With a July 1 deadline, all sides now head to the negotiating table—and the final budget could look very different.

Yesterday’s U.S. Supreme Court decision on the Voting Rights Act could reshape voting maps in Michigan. The ruling makes it harder to challenge districts based on race, raising questions about whether Michigan’s current maps could face new legal challenges. Some members of the state’s independent redistricting commission say maps may need to be redrawn, while others believe they’ll hold up. With elections just months away, changes in time for 2026 seem unlikely—but the decision could have lasting impacts on how districts are drawn in the future.

Down in T-C, a recall effort is building against Grand Traverse County Prosecutor Noelle Moeggenberg. About 50 people gathered at the Traverse Area District Library, criticizing plea deals they say are too lenient. The prosecutor says sentencing is largely set by state guidelines and warns the effort could discourage victims from coming forward. The recall petition now awaits state approval—supporters would need about 14,000 signatures to put it on the ballot.

Winter just won’t let go in Northern Michigan. There were even reports of light snow overnight on Beaver Island, as a cold system moves in just a day before May. Forecasters say rain could mix with snow across the region—especially at night and early morning—but little to no accumulation is expected. Temperatures will dip into the 30s through the weekend, bringing the chance for frost and freeze warnings. But, M-Live forecasters say have faith—warmer, more spring-like weather is expected by mid-May.

It was another busy afternoon and early evening at school yesterday with two events. First was the annual National Honor Society’s induction ceremony.  Current members spoke about the tenets of the society as they lit candles representing each one. The final candle was lit by Leif McGinnity, a sophomore being inducted as the society’s newest member. He committed to continued excellent scholarship and service to the community. The N-H-S is led by Connie Boyle and is now in its 20th year at B-I-C-S.

Shortly after that, Heidi Bearss’ keyboard students presented a recital in her classroom.  Chairs were full as musicians presented work ranging from classical to contemporary including an accordion duet. 

Leif McGinnity accepts his National Honor Society membership from BICS Principal Wil Cwikiel. Photo by Kevin Boyle

Olive Ledbetter at the keyboard with a full house at yesterday’s recital. Photo by Kevin Boyle

Finally, a few local notes: The Wildlife Club says they still have some crabapple trees left from Sunday’s plant and tree distribution.  They are available for pickup at the library with a freewill donation welcome.

And Deb Robert is still looking for a few food signups for Memorial Day Weekend’s Is Everybody Happy Party at the Hall. Contact her at school.

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

First your meeting planner…

A-A meets Thursday and Saturday at 6:00. Locations and more details are in the calendar entries online.

On the fun front today…

Thursday Women’s Bible Study is on at 10:00 at the Christian Church. There’s Pickleball at the BIC Center at 10:00 in the Theater. At 10:30 up in the Hangout there’s Senior Tai Chi. At 11:00 at the BIC Center, there’ll be a Microgreens Luncheon with ham, mashed potatoes, vegetables, a microgreen salad and desert. Three bucks for seniors and six for others. Thursday evening, there’s Pickleball at 5:00 in the Theater at the BIC Center. Afterwards, you can grab the burger & a beer special at the Shamrock starting at 5:00, and its Euchre Night down at Whiskey Point Brewing. Cards hit the table at 7:00.

[Thursday evening on the radio, drop in for W-V-B-I’s newest music show. It’s The Underground with Leila Freijy. It’s the underground sound of grunge and more from the 80s and 90s with special features every week. Tune in at 7:00 for two hours Underground.]

Highlights for the rest of the week include…

Friday, Senior + Vets Coffee & Donuts is at the BIC Center from 9:00 to 11:00.  There’s Pickleball at 10:00 and Chair Strength Training at 10:30. Friday evening the Flower Full Moon will shine over Paradise Bay. There’s more info at Dark Sky Island dot org.

[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 Fiero Code Club is on at the library at 1:00. And, remember, Saturdays are Prime Rib Night at the Shamrock. The Elks Lodge will be open to all this Saturday for a Derby Day celebration.  There’ll be brats & dogs on the grill. Wear your Derby Hat. The Queen of Hearts draw will be at 7:00.

[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 Christian Church at 10:00 and mass at Holy Cross at 12:15.

Looking ahead to highlights for next week…

Monday kicks off a new series of Monday Funday programs start at the BIC Center.  There’ll be afterschool crafting at 3:30, and an artist’s workshop at 5:00.  This week the workshop will be on Fairy Doors and Seed Sharing led by Christine McKenna and Monica Longlett. After fun at the BIC Center, head over to the Shamrock where Monday’s are All You Can Eat Pizza and Salad night.

Tuesday at 10:00, Babes & Toddlers mix it up at the library and there is Pickleball in the Theater at the BIC Center and, at 10:30, there’s Chair Strength Training up in the Hangout. At 2:15 there’s a Home School Meet-up at the library.

Wednesday, there’s BINGO at 1:00 at the BIC Center. And at 5:00 it’s Time for Art, at the BIC Center. 

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

On our Birthday List today: Don Merriman is celebrating today. Happy Birthday to Don, 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. Still, let’s be careful out there, especially in the school zone.

On this date in 1941, a young Charlie Parker steps into a Dallas studio with Jay McShann’s orchestra for his first commercial recording session. Playing alto sax, he lays down solos on “Swingmatism” and “Hootie Blues”—and right around this time, he picks up the nickname that would stick for life: “Bird.”

Portrait of Charlie Parker in the Three Deuces of New York (N.Y.), in August 1947. Parker is playing a Conn 6M alto saxophone. Standing next to him is Miles Davis. Photo by William Gottlieb from Library of Congress via Wikimedia

Our Merriam-Webster Word of the Day is interlocutor (noun) [in-ter-LAH-kyuh-ter]. An interlocutor is someone you’re having a conversation with—the person on the other side of the dialogue. It’s a more formal way of saying “the person you’re talking to,” so if you hear it used, the conversation is probably on the formal side. The word comes from Latin: loqui [{LOH-kwee], meaning “to speak,” combined with inter- meaning “between”—so, literally, “one who speaks between.” That same root appears in words like loquacious [loh-KWAY-shus] and eloquent [EL-uh-kwent].

In legal contexts, you’ll often hear related terms like “interlocutory”—as in an interlocutory ruling or interlocutory decree. These are decisions made during a case, not the final judgment—essentially rulings that happen “in the course of conversation” between the court and the case.

Now, to wrap up for this Beaver Island Thursday…

Here’s a thought for the day from Charlie Parker: “Master your instrument, master the music… and then forget all that and just play.”

On a lighter note: How do you know a sax player’s at your door? They can’t find the right key… and they come in early anyway.

That’s the W-V-B-I Community Calendar Report for this Beaver Island Thursday, April 30th, 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.

###

Today

A 20 percent chance of showers before 8am. Partly sunny, with a high near 42/46. Northwest wind around 10 mph.

Tonight

Mostly cloudy, with a low around 32. Northwest wind 10 to 15 mph.

Friday

Mostly cloudy, with a high near 42/45. North wind 10 to 15 mph.

Friday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 33. Northwest wind 10 to 15 mph.

Saturday

Sunny, with a high near 43/46. Northwest wind 10 to 15 mph becoming west in the afternoon.

Saturday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 36.

Sunday

Partly sunny, with a high near 46/50.

Sunday Night

A chance of showers between 8pm and 2am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 39.

Monday

Showers likely, mainly between 8am and 2pm. Partly sunny, with a high near 46/49. Breezy.

Monday Night

A chance of showers before 2am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 37.

Tuesday

A chance of showers. Mostly sunny, with a high near 46/49.

Tuesday Night

A chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 37.

Wednesday

Partly sunny, with a high near 47/51.

Town: https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lon=-85.52&lat=45.748
Mid-Island: https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lon=-85.531&lat=45.676

Out on the Big Drink …

Today

NNW wind around 10 kt becoming W in the afternoon. A slight chance of snow showers before 3pm, then a slight chance of rain showers between 3pm and 4pm. Waves 1 ft or less.

Friday

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

Saturday

NW wind around 10 kt becoming WSW in the afternoon. Sunny. Waves 1 ft or less.

Midway to Charlevoix: https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lon=-85.384&lat=45.532

Air Quality Index at 7:00 this morning was 0.

https://map.purpleair.com/air-quality-standards-us-epa-aqi?select=231959&opt=%2F1%2Flp%2Fa10%2Fp604800%2FcC0#8.89/45.4098/-85.4576

   Photos from webcams at wvbi.net and mackinacbridge.org

Coming up in our Community Calendar Report…

Michigan’s budget battle is underway, with lawmakers divided over an $88 billion plan and a July 1 deadline approaching.

A new U.S. Supreme Court ruling could impact how voting maps are drawn here in Michigan, possibly shaping future elections.

In Traverse City, a recall effort is building against the county prosecutor, while she says sentencing decisions are largely set by state guidelines.

And winter isn’t quite done—there were even reports of light snow overnight on Beaver Island, with colder temps sticking around through the weekend.…

…those stories plus school news, a run-down of local meetings and events, birthdays, our word of the day and more after global and national news from F-S-N. [Time check.]

Today’s Featured Image: Leif McGinnity accepts his National Honor Society membership from BICS Principal Wil Cwikiel. Photo by Kevin Boyle

T-D-S service was out again last evening, this time from about 7:13 until 1:30 in the morning. The outage follows another last week that ran for 18 hours.  Once again unofficial sources say the problem was an outage in services T-D-S buys from AT&T on the mainland. T-D-S has cited that cause officially for almost all of its recent outages that occurred before these two. 

Beaver Island Community School celebrated a year of athletic achievement last night at its annual sports awards ceremony, recognizing student-athletes not just for performance, but for teamwork, growth, and sportsmanship across the board.

In soccer, Lucas Pease earned the All-Around Excellence Award, while Lysander McGinnity was recognized with the Team Impact Award and Leif McGinnity was named Most Improved. Alexis Pease received the Coach’s Award, and Haley Pease was honored as Unsung Hero. On the volleyball court, Zia Duffing took Rookie of the Year, Kira Turner earned the Human Whistle Award, and Alexis Pease picked up the Iron Woman Award. Izzabella DeLaat and Sophie McDonough were also recognized for teamwork and spirit.

Girls basketball honors highlighted Izzabella DeLaat, Sophie McDonough, Kira Turner, Alexis Pease, and Madeline McGee, while boys basketball saw the entire team named Most Improved, with individual honors going to Lucas Pease, Nathan Huttenlocker, and Lysander McGinnity as MVP.

Athletes were also recognized beyond the island through Northern Lights League honors—awards voted on by coaches from opposing teams. Lysander McGinnity earned First Team honors in soccer, joined by Haley Pease in volleyball, while several others were recognized across sports with second team and honorable mention selections. The league’s Sportsmanship Award went to Sophie McDonough and Parker DeLaat.

Finally, among a strong group of nominees, this year’s Bill Burns Memorial Outstanding Sportsmanship Award went to Sophie McDonough.

And, while we are on the topic of student awards, last week a group of Beaver Island Community School students were among those honored at this year’s regional Career and Technical Education banquet held on the mainland. Leif McGinnity, Shawnee Hoernke, Xandra Duffing, and Leona Walsh—were recognized for outstanding achievement in business and health programs. The event brought together 11 school districts and honored more than 100 students overall.

Photos from the CTE Awards night feature Shawnee Hoernke, Leif McGinnity (left to right top) Xandra Duffing and Violet Walsh (botom) with their teacher Nicole Olson and principal Wil Cwikiel. Photos from Charm-Em ISD CTE Program via the Norther Islander

Aside from all the awards, another sign that spring is here is the Currach Club getting organized for another season of action on the water. They are kicking off their 2026 with an informational meeting next Wednesday, May 6 at 5:30 p.m. at the Beaver Island Community Center. New and returning members are all invited. A virtual option is also available for those who can’t attend in person.

Beaver Island’s Currach Club prepares to get its boats back in the water with an informational meeting next Wednesday ta the BIC Center at 5:30. Photo provided by Beaver Island Currach Club on Facebook

And, finally, in another sign of spring, Island Energies has extended its opening hours.  Weekdays, they are open 7:30 to 7:00. Saturdays 8:00 to 6:00 and Sundays 11:oo to 4:00. The extended hours start today.

Hours are expanding at Island Energies. Image from Island Energies Facebook post

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

First your meeting planner…

A-A meets Thursday and Saturday at 6:00. Locations and more details are in the calendar entries online.

On the fun front today…

Wednesday, there’s BINGO at 1:00 at the BIC Center. And at 5:00 it’s Time for Art, at the BIC Center.  Also Wednesday evening at school, the Nathinal Honor Society will induct new members.  The ceremony will be in the high school commons and all are welcome to attend.

Thursday Women’s Bible Study is on at 10:00 at the Christian Church. There’s Pickleball at the BIC Center at 10:00 in the Theater. At 10:30 up in the Hangout there’s Senior Tai Chi. At 11:00 at the BIC Center, there’ll be a Microgreens Luncheon with ham, mashed potatoes, vegetables, a microgreen salad and desert. Three bucks for seniors and six for others. Thursday evening, there’s Pickleball at 5:00 in the Theater at the BIC Center. Afterwards, you can grab the burger & a beer special at the Shamrock starting at 5:00, and its Euchre Night down at Whiskey Point Brewing. Cards hit the table at 7:00.

[Thursday evening on the radio, drop in for W-V-B-I’s newest music show. It’s The Underground with Leila Freijy. It’s the underground sound of grunge and more from the 80s and 90s with special features every week. Tune in at 7:00 for two hours Underground.]

Highlights for the rest of the week include…

Friday, Senior + Vets Coffee & Donuts is at the BIC Center from 9:00 to 11:00.  There’s Pickleball at 10:00 and Chair Strength Training at 10:30. Friday evening the Flower Full Moon will shine over Paradise Bay. There’s more info at Dark Sky Island dot org.

[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 Fiero Code Club is on at the library at 1:00. And, remember, Saturdays 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 Christian Church at 10:00 and mass at Holy Cross at 12:15.

Looking ahead to highlights for next week…

Monday kicks off a new series of Monday Funday programs start at the BIC Center.  There’ll be afterschool crafting at 3:30, and an artist’s workshop at 5:00.  This week the workshop will be on Fairy Doors and Seed Sharing led by Christine McKenna and Monica Longlett. After fun at the BIC Center, head over to the Shamrock where Monday’s are All You Can Eat Pizza and Salad night.

Tuesday at 10:00, Babes & Toddlers mix it up at the library and there is Pickleball in the Theater at the BIC Center and, at 10:30, there’s Chair Strength Training up in the Hangout. At 2:15 there’s a Home School Meet-up at the library.

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

On our Birthday List today: It’s empty, but 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. Still, let’s be careful out there, especially in the school zone.

On this date in 1997, the Chemical Weapons Convention takes effect—banning the production, storage, and use of chemical weapons. 193  countries are now parties to the treaty, including the United States, marking a major global effort to eliminate these weapons.

The Chemical Weapons Convention is implemented by the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons OPCW. In this photo, OPCW inspectors conduct a training exercise donning and using elf-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Screen capture from OPCW B-roll

Our Merriam-Webster Word of the Day is speculate (verb) [SPEK-yuh-layt]. It means to form ideas or theories when not all the facts are known… or in finance, to invest with high risk and potential reward. The word dates back to the 1500s, originally meaning to observe or consider. It comes from the Latin specere [SPEK-eh-reh] meaning “to look,” the same root behind words like spectrum and perspective.

Now, to wrap up for this Beaver Island Wednesday…

Here’s a thought for the day from English Philosopher Bertrand Russell: “War does not determine who is right—only who is left.”

On a lighter note: I tried to make a list of power outage jokes… but none of them were very current. Honestly, the whole situation was pretty shocking—I just couldn’t find the energy to keep going.

That’s the W-V-B-I Community Calendar Report for this Beaver Island Wednesday, April 29th, 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.

###

Today

Mostly cloudy, with a high near 43/48. Northwest wind 5 to 10 mph.

Tonight

Partly cloudy, with a low around 34. Northwest wind around 10 mph.

Thursday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 42/45. Northwest wind 10 to 15 mph.

Thursday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 33. Northwest wind around 15 mph.

Friday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 41/44. Northwest wind around 15 mph.

Friday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 33.

Saturday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 42/45.

Saturday Night

Mostly cloudy, with a low around 35.

Sunday

Partly sunny, with a high near 45/48.

Sunday Night

Mostly cloudy, with a low around 37.

Monday

Partly sunny, with a high near 46/49.

Monday Night

Mostly cloudy, with a low around 38.

Tuesday

A chance of showers. Partly sunny, with a high near 47/51.

Town: https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lon=-85.52&lat=45.748
Mid-Island: https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lon=-85.531&lat=45.676

Out on the Big Drink …

Today

N wind 5 to 10 kt becoming WNW in the afternoon. Mostly cloudy. Waves 1 ft or less.

Thursday

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

Friday

NW wind 10 to 15 kt. Mostly sunny. Waves around 1 ft.

Midway to Charlevoix: https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lon=-85.384&lat=45.532

Air Quality Index at 7:00 this morning was 0.

https://map.purpleair.com/air-quality-standards-us-epa-aqi?select=231959&opt=%2F1%2Flp%2Fa10%2Fp604800%2FcC0#8.89/45.4098/-85.4576

   Photos from webcams at wvbi.net and mackinacbridge.org

Coming up in our Community Calendar Report…

TDS customers experience another outage overnight, following last weekend’s lengthy disruption. Beaver Island Community School celebrates a year of athletics with major honors handed out—and more students recognized at a regional career and technical education banquet. Plus, the Curragh Club gets ready for a new season on the water, and Island Energies expands hours for spring…

…those stories plus a run-down of local meetings and events, birthdays, our word of the day and more after global and national news from F-S-N. [Time check.]

Today’s Featured Image: Beaver Island’s Currach Club prepares to get its boats back in the water with an informational meeting next Wednesday ta the BIC Center at 5:30. Photo provided by Beaver Island Currach Club on Facebook

Ferry service to Mackinac Island could face uncertainty beyond when they start full service this year.  While this year’s startup has been delayed by ice, the island’s operators warn they may stop service after 2027 if new contracts aren’t reached. Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry and Arnold Transit Company—both owned by the same parent company—say disputes with the city over rates and regulations have stalled negotiations. A federal judge is urging both sides to reach a deal, noting millions depend on the service. Officials say the 2026 season will operate as normal.

Federal regulators are ordering urgent inspections of dams across Michigan following this month’s historic flooding, including the Cheboygan Dam powerhouse. Officials say high water and snowmelt may have caused hidden damage, raising concerns about delayed failures like those seen after the 1986 floods. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission has given dam operators deadlines to report on safety and repairs, while state crews begin their own inspections. Authorities warn the risk isn’t over yet, especially in the Upper Peninsula where deep snowpack remains.

Northern Michigan is a mental health care desert according to a new report from the Michigan House of Representatives.  The report highlights a critical shortage of psychiatric beds that forces some patients, including islanders, to travel more than 100 miles for care. The state ranks near the bottom nationally, and advocates say the region has no inpatient beds for children at all. Leaders with National Alliance on Mental Illness say a new facility in northern Michigan could bring care closer to home, and lawmakers are now being urged to fund it in the next state budget.

The Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians Natural Resources Department has been named the 2025 Conservationist of the Year by the Michigan Natural Features Inventory. The award recognizes the tribe’s extensive work protecting Michigan’s biodiversity—from monitoring species like bald eagles, lake sturgeon, and piping plovers to restoring wild rice and tracking forest health. Officials say the data collected by LTBB plays a key role in statewide conservation planning and supports Indigenous cultural stewardship across northern Michigan, including research projects in the Beaver Island archipelago.

Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians Natural Resources Department members accept their DNR award. Photo by Michigan DNR from Facebook

At the Elks Saturday night, Maeve drew the eight of spades from envelope 22, meaning the Queen remains in hiding for next week’s raffle. She takes home a $25 consolation prize, and the jackpot now stands at $3,030.

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

First your meeting planner…

Peaine Township Board has a special meeting this afternoon at 4:30. A-A meets Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday at 6:00. Locations and more details are in the calendar entries online.

On the fun front today…

Monday evening is All You Can Eat Pizza and Salad night at the Shamrock.

Tuesday at 10:00, Babes & Toddlers mix it up at the library and there is Pickleball in the Theater at the BIC Center and, at 10:30, there’s Chair Strength Training up in the Hangout. At 2:15 there’s a Home School Meet-up at the library. At 5:00 at school, student athletes will be honored at Sports Awards night. All are welcome to attend.

Highlights for the rest of the week include…

Wednesday, there’s BINGO at 1:00 at the BIC Center. And at 5:00 it’s Time for Art, at the BIC Center.  Also Wednesday evening at school, the Nathinal Honor Society will induct new members.  The ceremony will be in the high school commons and all are welcome to attend.

Thursday Women’s Bible Study is on at 10:00 at the Christian Church. There’s Pickleball at the BIC Center at 10:00 in the Theater. At 10:30 up in the Hangout there’s Senior Tai Chi. At 11:00 at the BIC Center, there’ll be a Microgreens Luncheon with ham, mashed potatoes, vegetables, a microgreen salad and desert. Three bucks for seniors and six for others. Thursday evening, there’s Pickleball at 5:00 in the Theater at the BIC Center. Afterwards, you can grab the burger & a beer special at the Shamrock starting at 5:00, and its Euchre Night down at Whiskey Point Brewing. Cards hit the table at 7:00.

[Thursday evening on the radio, drop in for W-V-B-I’s newest music show. It’s The Underground with Leila Freijy. It’s the underground sound of grunge and more from the 80s and 90s with special features every week. Tune in at 7:00 for two hours Underground.]

Friday, Senior + Vets Coffee & Donuts is at the BIC Center from 9:00 to 11:00.  There’s Pickleball at 10:00 and Chair Strength Training at 10:30. Friday evening the Flower Full Moon will shine over Paradise Bay. There’s more info at Dark Sky Island dot org.

[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 Fiero Code Club is on at the library at 1:00. And, remember, Saturdays 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 Christian Church at 10:00 and mass at Holy Cross at 12:15.

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

On our Birthday List today: Charlie Gray, Ivan Young, Lois Stipp, Mason Rood, Deb Pmorski, Nathan Hutten Locker and Kate Eisenmann. Happy Birthday to Kate, Deb, Lois, Nate, Mason, Ivan and Charlie 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. Still, let’s be careful out there, especially in the school zone.

On this date in 1982, On this date in 1982, the trial of John Hinckley Jr. begins, following his shooting of President Ronald Reagan and his press secretary James Bradey outside the Washington Hilton hotel in Washington, D.C. Hinckley successfully asserts a defense of insanity leading to the Insanity Defense Reform Act, which makes the defense harder to use and shifts the burden of proof to defendants. Hinckley spends decades in psychiatric care and is fully released from court supervision in 2022. Brady dies in 2014 with his death attributed to the shooting. After the 2024 assignation attempt on President Trump, Hinckley tweets “Violence is not the way to go. Give peace a chance.”

President Ronald Reagan waving to crowds immediately before being shot. James Brady is to his right.  Photo by Michael Evans / White House Photographic Office (via National Archives) available on Wikimedia

Our Merriam-Webster Word of the Day is boondoggle (noun) [BOON-dah-gul]. a term for a wasteful or pointless project, especially one that costs a lot of time or money. But that wasn’t its original meaning. Though there is debate about it, the best theory is that though that a scoutmaster made it up to name the braided leather cords made and worn by Boy Scouts. It developed its pointless sense in 1930s debated over government spending. Today, it’s most often used to describe things—from bloated budgets to unnecessary projects—that seem to go nowhere.

Now, to wrap up for this Beaver Island Monday…

Here’s a thought for the day from James Brady: “When life gives you lemons, you make lemonade. I have several stands around here.”

On a lighter note: I only know 25 letters of the alphabet. I don’t know y.

That’s the W-V-B-I Community Calendar Report for this Beaver Island Monday, April 27th, 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.

###

Today

A 30 percent chance of showers after 5pm. Partly sunny, with a high near 63 by the water and 65 in the woods. East wind around 15 mph.

Tonight

Showers and thunderstorms likely, then showers and possibly a thunderstorm after 11pm. Low around 42. Breezy, with a southeast wind around 20 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph. Chance of precipitation is 100%. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.

Tuesday

Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm before 8am, then a chance of showers between 8am and 2pm. Mostly cloudy, with a temperature falling to around 43/47 by 7am. Breezy, with a west wind 15 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%.

Tuesday Night

Mostly cloudy, with a low around 37. Northwest wind 5 to 15 mph.

Wednesday

Partly sunny, with a high near 45/48. Northwest wind 5 to 10 mph.

Wednesday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 34.

Thursday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 43/45.

Thursday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 34/32.

Friday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 44/47.

Friday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 34.

Saturday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 45/48.

Saturday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 37.

Sunday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 47/51.

Town: https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lon=-85.52&lat=45.748
Mid-Island: https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lon=-85.531&lat=45.676

Out on the Big Drink …

Today

ESE wind 10 to 20 kt. A chance of showers after 5pm. Waves 1 to 3 ft.

Tuesday

SW wind 15 to 20 kt becoming W in the afternoon. A chance of showers before 1pm. Waves 3 to 5 ft.

Wednesday

WNW wind 5 to 10 kt. Partly sunny. Waves 1 ft or less.

Midway to Charlevoix: https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lon=-85.384&lat=45.532

Air Quality Index at 6:30 this morning was 21.

https://map.purpleair.com/air-quality-standards-us-epa-aqi?select=231959&opt=%2F1%2Flp%2Fa10%2Fp604800%2FcC0#8.89/45.4098/-85.4576

   Photos from webcams at wvbi.net and mackinacbridge.org

Coming up in our Community Calendar Report…

Ferry service to Mackinac Island faces long-term uncertainty as operators warn they could shut down after 2027 without new contracts. Plus, urgent dam inspections are underway after historic flooding, and a new report calls northern Michigan a mental health care desert. We’ll also tell you who’s being honored for protecting the region’s natural resources—and why the Queen of Hearts is still in hiding at the Elks.

…those stories plus a run-down of local meetings and events, birthdays, our word of the day and more after global and national news from F-S-N. [Time check.]

Today’s Featured Image: Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians Natural Resources Department members accept their DNR award. Photo by Michigan DNR from Facebook

The Petoskey News-Review is reporting today that the Bergmann Center plans to end all services for people with disabilities on May 16.  That unless major changes come out of an April 30 meeting with North Country Community Mental Health. The nonprofit, which says it is dedicated to empowering differently abled individuals, serves 71 clients. It’s leaders say years of failures and poor oversight led to the decision. N-C-C-M-H confirms the termination notice and says it’s working to find alternative providers, emphasizing that the priority is minimizing disruption for clients and families.

Former Michigan House Speaker Tom Leonard has dropped out of the Michigan governor’s race just days after submitting signatures to qualify for the ballot. The Republican, who was polling in the single digits, cited an increasingly negative campaign environment and said he wasn’t willing to run that kind of race. His withdrawal came just before the deadline, meaning his name won’t appear on the ballot, leaving several other Republicans still competing for the nomination.

In Traverse City, commissioners have approved new agreements for summer events like the National Cherry Festival as it heads into its 100th year and an expanded Food & Wine showcase, along with plans for new public art installations downtown. But a proposal to add irrigation and plant trees along Grandview Parkway medians failed again over cost and safety concerns.

Petoskey is now among the nation’s elite housing markets. A new report from Realtor.com ranks it as a “pure luxury” market, with more than half of listings over $1 million and a median price around $1.1 million. Rising demand and limited inventory have pushed the longtime resort town into high-end territory—though affordability is becoming a growing concern.

Some interesting maritime activity to report: the first sailboat of the season arrived yesterday. Miss Tara, 14 meters long and drawing 2 meters spent the night in the harbor.  And, off the west side this morning in Greenes Bay, the lake freighter Herbert C. Jackson was at anchor. Launched in 1959, she was the last laker converted from steam power in the Interlake fleet. She’s 210 meters long and is a self-unloader.

The Herbert C. Jackson lays at anchor in Greenes Bay on the west side of Beaver Island. Photo by Kevin Boyle

Finally, a few reminders:

The Wildlife Club’s spring tree and shrub giveaway and distribution is coming up Sunday. They’ll have 350 plants available. Pick-up is at Levi’s on Paid Een Ogs Road and runs until they’re gone.

The Beaver Island Players are working on Beaver Tales II planning. They’ll meet at the library at 11:00 on May 2nd.

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

First your meeting planner…

A-A meets Thursday and Saturday at 6:00. St. James Township Board has called a special meeting for tomorrow at noon. Locations and more details are in the calendar entries online.

On the fun front today…

Friday, Senior + Vets Coffee & Donuts is at the BIC Center from 9:00 to 11:00.  There’s Pickleball at 10:00 and Chair Strength Training at 10:30.

[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 Fiero Code Club is on at the library at 1:00. Then at 2:00 the library will treat you to an Edible Book Festival. Bring something to share if you can and, either way, come hungry. Also Saturday, There are two movies at the BIC Center.  The 3:00 show is Arco, an animated sci-fi story of time travel that’s about kids and great for kids. Rated PG. At 6:00, it’s the award winning H is for Hawk. It’s the story of a daughter grieving the loss of her dad who is rescued by a stubborn hawk.  Rated PG-13. And, remember, Saturdays 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 Christian Church at 10:00 and mass at Holy Cross at 12:15.

Looking ahead to highlights for next week…

Monday evening is All You Can Eat Pizza and Salad night at the Shamrock.

Tuesday at 10:00, Babes & Toddlers mix it up at the library and there is Pickleball in the Theater at the BIC Center and, at 10:30, there’s Chair Strength Training up in the Hangout. At 2:15 there’s a Home School Meet-up at the library. At 5:00 at school, student athletes will be honored at Sports Awards night. All are welcome to attend.

Wednesday, there’s BINGO at 1:00 at the BIC Center. And at 5:00 it’s Time for Art, at the BIC Center.  This week the final session on creating plaster molds led by Cindy Ricksgers. Also Wednesday evening at school, the Nathinal Honor Society will induct new members.  The ceremony will be in the high school commons and all are welcome to attend.

Thursday Women’s Bible Study is on at 10:00 at the Christian Church. There’s Pickleball at the BIC Center at 10:00 in the Theater. At 10:30 up in the Hangout there’s Senior Tai Chi. Thursday evening, there’s Pickleball at 5:00 in the Theater at the BIC Center. Afterwards, you can grab the burger & a beer special at the Shamrock starting at 5:00, and its Euchre Night down at Whiskey Point Brewing. Cards hit the table at 7:00.

[Thursday evening on the radio, drop in for W-V-B-I’s newest music show. It’s The Underground with Leila Freijy. It’s the underground sound of grunge and more from the 80s and 90s with special features every week. Tune in at 7:00 for two hours Underground.]

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

On our Birthday List today: Danielle Scheller, Tina Drost and Clairessa Kenwabikise. Happy Birthday to Clairessa, Tina and Danielle 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. Still, let’s be careful out there, especially in the school zone.

On this date in 1990, aboard the Space Shuttle Space Shuttle Discovery, NASA launched the Hubble Space Telescope—a 24,000-pound observatory with a nearly 8-foot mirror—into low Earth orbit. But early on, scientists discovered that mirror had a tiny flaw, causing blurry images. A daring shuttle servicing mission in 1993 installed corrective optics, essentially giving Hubble “glasses.” The fix worked—and Hubble has since delivered some of the most stunning images of galaxies, black holes, and deep space ever seen.

The Hubble Space Telescope in a photo taken from the Shuttle Atlantis shortly after it was released after a service mission in 2009. Phot from NASA

Our Merriam-Webster Word of the Day is arboreal (adjective) [ahr-BOR-ee-ul]. It’s an adjective that means relating to trees, or living in them—like arboreal primates. The word comes from the Latin arbor, meaning “tree,” and entered English in the 1600s when scholars were borrowing heavily from Latin. While there are plenty of similar “arbor” words, arboreal is the one you’ll hear most. And, remember, you can do something related to trees this weekend by picking one up from the Wildlife Club…

Now, to wrap up for this Beaver Island Friday…

Here’s a thought for the day from Warren Buffet: “Someone is sitting in the shade today because someone planted a tree a long time ago.”

On a lighter note: What’s a tree’s favorite band? The Beech Boys.

That’s the W-V-B-I Community Calendar Report for this Beaver Island Friday, April 24th, 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.

###

Today

A chance of rain between 8am and 2pm, then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 2pm. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 45 by the shore and 50 in the woods. Windy, with an east wind 20 to 30 mph, with gusts as high as 35 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70%.

Tonight

Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm before 8pm, then a slight chance of rain between 8pm and 2am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 37. Breezy, with a north wind 15 to 20 mph decreasing to 10 to 15 mph after midnight. Chance of precipitation is 60%.

Saturday

Partly sunny, with a high near 43/47. Northeast wind around 10 mph.

Saturday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 37. East wind 5 to 10 mph.

Sunday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 46/50. East wind 5 to 10 mph.

Sunday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 40.

Monday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 52/57.

Monday Night

Showers. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 43. Breezy.

Tuesday

Showers, mainly before 8am. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 49/52. Breezy.

Tuesday Night

Mostly cloudy, with a low around 38.

Wednesday

Partly sunny, with a high near 45/48.

Wednesday Night

Mostly cloudy, with a low around 37.

Thursday

Partly sunny, with a high near 44/47.

Town: https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lon=-85.52&lat=45.748
Mid-Island: https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lon=-85.531&lat=45.676

Out on the Big Drink …

Today

E wind 10 to 20 kt, with gusts as high as 25 kt. Showers and thunderstorms likely, then showers and possibly a thunderstorm after 2pm. Waves 2 to 4 ft.

Saturday

NNE wind around 10 kt. Partly sunny. Waves around 1 ft.

Sunday

E wind 5 to 10 kt becoming NNE in the afternoon. Mostly sunny. Waves 1 ft or less.

Monday

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

Tuesday

S wind around 20 kt becoming WSW in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 30 kt. A chance of showers. Waves 4 to 5 ft.

Midway to Charlevoix: https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lon=-85.384&lat=45.532

Air Quality Index at 6:30 this morning was 8.

https://map.purpleair.com/air-quality-standards-us-epa-aqi?select=231959&opt=%2F1%2Flp%2Fa10%2Fp604800%2FcC0#8.89/45.4098/-85.4576

   Photos from webcams at wvbi.net and mackinacbridge.org

Coming up in our Community Calendar Report…

Charlevoix’s  Bergmann Center says it may shut down services for people with disabilities next month unless changes come from a key meeting with North Country Community Mental Health. Former House Speaker Tom Leonard has dropped out of the governor’s race. Traverse City has nixed a proposal to plant trees in the median of the restored parkway. Petoskey is now ranked among the nation’s luxury housing markets—and we’re seeing signs of the season, with the first sailboat arriving and a freighter anchored in Greenes Bay.

…those stories and more local news plus a run-down of local meetings and events, birthdays, our word of the day and more after global and national news from F-S-N. [Time check.]

Today’s Featured Image: The Herbert C. Jackson lays at anchor in Greenes Bay on the west side of Beaver Island. Photo by Kevin Boyle posted on Facebook

The U.S. Supreme Court has unanimously sided with Dana Nessel in the ongoing dispute over the Line 5 pipeline. Justices ruled Enbridge missed a key deadline to move the case to federal court, meaning it will stay in Michigan’s state court system. The decision doesn’t determine whether Line 5 will shut down, but it’s a significant step in a years-long legal battle over the aging pipeline beneath the Straits of Mackinac and puts the dispute in a forum that many will be more friendly to the State’s point of view.

Meantime, the Michigan House has passed a nearly $76 billion state budget proposal, about $5 billion less than current spending, with major cuts to departments like health, labor, and environmental programs. Republicans say the plan reflects more realistic spending levels, while Democrats argue the cuts go too far and could hurt services and long-term growth. The proposal also assumes reduced Medicaid costs and comes amid a projected $1.8 billion shortfall. This is just an early step in the process, with major changes expected before a final budget is approved by the Senate and Governor Gretchen Whitmer.

Even as we continue to dry and thaw out here on the Island, the impacts from record snowfall and heavy spring rains continue to plague mainlanders.  And now, it’s not just high water, but ice. Along Black Lake in Cheboygan county large sheets of ice have been pushed into homes, breaking windows and flooding living spaces. At the Cheboygan Lock and Dam, water levels remain just inches below the top, with crews working around the clock to increase flow and reduce pressure. In Bellaire, conditions have stabilized but officials remain on alert with evacuation plans in place. And in Traverse City, the Boardman River is  slowly receding, but revealing plenty of damage.

Lingering ice in the Straits of Mackinac is delaying the start of the summer ferry season to Mackinac Island. Both Arnold Transit Company and Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry have postponed their planned April 21 launch dates, citing unsafe conditions near docks—especially in Mackinaw City. Limited winter service continues for now, with no confirmed start date for full operations. Officials say crews and vessels are ready, but service won’t expand until ice clears and safe passage is possible.

With Warblers on the Water coming up quickly…it’s Memorial Day Weekend and that’s just weeks away…word from experts is that the spring bird migration is underway. BirdCast radar estimates more than 317 million birds moved overnight across the U.S., marking the start of a major four-day surge. They said  last night could be the nationwide peak, with the Great Lakes region seeing its biggest migration night Thursday. Numbers are expected to taper off into the weekend and early next week. So, there will plenty to see when the Warblers festival arrives.  There are still some excursions available for signup.  You can check them out at tickets dot bic center dot org.

https://store.biccenter.org/product/warblers-on-the-water-2026/

A BirdCast migration graphic depicts birds on the move. Graphic from CornellLab Birdcast from Facebook post  

The Beaver Island Commission will begin offering free fresh produce and shelf-stable items on Fridays starting tomorrow. The distribution will be from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. at its Donegal Bay Road office. The program runs Fridays through September for Charlevoix County residents age 60 and over, with up to five items available each week on a first-come, first-served basis.

The COA Free produce program starts tomorrow. Graphic from Charlevois County Commission on Aging Facebook post

Finally, a few reminders:

It’s been two years since Dickie McEvoy passed away, whose voice you can still hear on W-V-B-I.  If there’s time today, drive your classic car out to Whiskey Point and hoist a glass to his memory.

The Wildlife Club’s spring tree and shrub giveaway and distribution is coming up Sunday. They’ll have 350 plants available. Pick-up is at Levi’s on Paid Een Ogs Road and runs until they’re gone.

The Beaver Island Players are working on Beaver Tales II planning. They’ll meet at the library at 11:00 on May 2nd.

And, remember that the Boat Company has added a second run for this Friday. It will leave Charlevoix at 2:30 and head back to the mainland at 5:20.

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

First your meeting planner…

A-A meets Thursday and Saturday at 6:00. St. James Township Board has called a special meeting for tomorrow at noon. Locations and more details are in the calendar entries online.

On the fun front today…

Thursday Women’s Bible Study is on at 10:00 at the Christian Church. There’s Pickleball at the BIC Center at 10:00 in the Theater. At 10:30 up in the Hangout there’s Senior Tai Chi. Thursday evening, there’s Pickleball at 5:00 in the Theater at the BIC Center. Afterwards, you can grab the burger & a beer special at the Shamrock starting at 5:00, and its Euchre Night down at Whiskey Point Brewing. Cards hit the table at 7:00.

[Thursday evening on the radio, drop in for W-V-B-I’s newest music show. It’s The Underground with Leila Freijy. It’s the underground sound of grunge and more from the 80s and 90s with special features every week. Tune in at 7:00 for two hours Underground.]

Friday, Senior + Vets Coffee & Donuts is at the BIC Center from 9:00 to 11:00.  There’s Pickleball at 10:00 and Chair Strength Training at 10:30.

[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.]

Looking ahead to highlights for the rest of the week…

Saturday, the Fiero Code Club is on at the library at 1:00. Then at 2:00 the library will treat you to an Edible Book Festival. Bring something to share if you can and, either way, come hungry. Also Saturday, There are two movies at the BIC Center.  The 3:00 show is Arco, an animated sci-fi story of time travel that’s about kids and great for kids. Rated PG. At 6:00, it’s the award winning H is for Hawk. It’s the story of a daughter grieving the loss of her dad who is rescued by a stubborn hawk.  Rated PG-13. And, remember, Saturdays 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 Christian Church at 10:00 and mass at Holy Cross at 12:15.

Looking ahead to highlights for next week…

Monday evening is All You Can Eat Pizza and Salad night at the Shamrock.

Tuesday at 10:00, Babes & Toddlers mix it up at the library and there is Pickleball in the Theater at the BIC Center and, at 10:30, there’s Chair Strength Training up in the Hangout. At 2:15 there’s a Home School Meet-up at the library. At 5:00 at school, student athletes will be honored at Sports Awards night. All are welcome to attend.

Wednesday, there’s BINGO at 1:00 at the BIC Center. And at 5:00 it’s Time for Art, at the BIC Center.  This week the final session on creating plaster molds led by Cindy Ricksgers. Also Wednesday evening at school, the Nathinal Honor Society will induct new members.  The ceremony will be in the high school commons and all are welcome to attend.

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

On our Birthday List today: Becca Foli. Happy Birthday to Becca 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. Still, let’s be careful out there, especially in the school zone.

On this date in 2005, The first YouTube video is posted. The 18-second clip “Me at the zoo” shows co-founder Jawed Karim at the San Diego Zoo. It has been viewed more than 13 million times (2014). Want to help run up the count? There’s a link to that first video in today’s script online.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jNQXAC9IVRw

Screenshot from first Youtube video. Screen capture from YouTube post by Jawed Karim

Our Merriam-Webster Word of the Day is fortitude (noun) [FOR-tuh-tood]. It means the strength of mind to face danger, pain, or adversity with courage—think grit or pluck. It comes from the Latin fortis, meaning “strong,” and has long referred to mental strength. Even William Shakespeare once used it to mean physical strength, but today it’s all about courage—like in the phrase “intestinal fortitude,” which, despite the name, has nothing to do with your stomach.

Now, to wrap up for this Beaver Island Thursday…

Here’s a thought for the day from YouTube pioneer Jawed Karim: “That’s one of those things about being a computer science major: Valentine’s Day is just another day.”

On a lighter note: What disease did the Youtuber contract? Influenza.

That’s the W-V-B-I Community Calendar Report for this Beaver Island Thursday, April 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.

###

Today

Partly sunny, with a high near 49/57. East wind 10 to 15 mph.

Tonight

Increasing clouds, with a low around 40. Breezy, with an east wind around 20 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph.

Friday

A chance of showers, then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 2pm. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 44/49. Breezy, with an east wind 20 to 25 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70%.

Friday Night

Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 37. Breezy, with a north wind 15 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%.

Saturday

A 30 percent chance of showers, mainly before 8am. Partly sunny, with a high near 45/48. North wind around 10 mph.

Saturday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 36.

Sunday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 48/51.

Sunday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 39.

Monday

A chance of showers after 2pm. Partly sunny, with a high near 51/54. Breezy.

Monday Night

Showers likely, mainly after 8pm. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 42. Breezy.

Tuesday

A chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 47/50. Breezy.

Tuesday Night

Mostly cloudy, with a low around 39.

Wednesday

Partly sunny, with a high near 46/49.

Town: https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lon=-85.52&lat=45.748
Mid-Island: https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lon=-85.531&lat=45.676

Out on the Big Drink …

Today

SE wind around 10 kt becoming E in the afternoon. Mostly sunny. Waves around 1 ft.

Friday

E wind 15 to 20 kt. A chance of showers, then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 1pm. Waves 2 to 3 ft.

Saturday

NNW wind around 10 kt. A slight chance of showers before 1pm. Waves 1 ft or less.

Sunday

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

Monday

E wind 10 to 20 kt. A chance of showers. Waves 1 to 3 ft.

Midway to Charlevoix: https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lon=-85.384&lat=45.532

Air Quality Index at 6:30 this morning was 10.

https://map.purpleair.com/air-quality-standards-us-epa-aqi?select=231959&opt=%2F1%2Flp%2Fa10%2Fp604800%2FcC0#8.89/45.4098/-85.4576

   Photos from webcams at wvbi.net and mackinacbridge.org

Coming up in our Community Calendar Report…

The U.S. Supreme Court has sided with Dana Nessel in the Line 5 case, keeping the legal fight in Michigan courts. Also, the Michigan House passes a $76 billion budget plan with major cuts—setting up a showdown with the Senate and Governor Gretchen Whitmer. Flooding impacts continue across Northern Michigan, with ice slamming into homes along Black Lake and water levels still high at area dams.

Plus, ferry season delays for Mackinac Island, a massive bird migration underway, and free food distribution starting on Beaver Island.

…those stories and more local news plus a run-down of local meetings and events, birthdays, our word of the day and more after global and national news from F-S-N. [Time check.]

Today’s Featured Image: With Warblers on the Water just a month away, the migration north has begun. A BirdCast graphic depicts birds on the move. Graphic from CornellLab Birdcast from Facebook post  

Water levels remain high across much of Northern Michigan, and while some areas are beginning to stabilize, impacts from the flooding are still widespread. In places like Black Lake and along the Cheboygan River system, some residents are only now able to begin recovery, while others are still dealing with standing water and limited access.

Officials say if you’ve been affected, it’s critical to report damage—even if it seems minor. Those reports help emergency managers understand the full scope of the disaster and can determine whether additional state or federal aid becomes available. Residents are also being urged to document everything—take photos, keep receipts, and file reports as soon as possible. As recovery begins, authorities are warning about potential scams targeting flood victims. The Michigan Attorney General’s Office says to be cautious of contractors who pressure for quick decisions, demand large upfront payments, or won’t provide written estimates or proof of insurance. The bottom line: conditions are improving in some spots, but the situation remains fluid. Recovery is just beginning for many, and officials say staying cautious, documenting damage, and reporting impacts will be key in the days ahead.

If you are dealing with flood, damage, the News Review has a comprehensive guide from the Free Press on dealing with flood damage covering insurance, cars, homes and more. There’s a link to the article in today’s script online.

https://www.petoskeynews.com/story/money/personal-finance/susan-tompor/2026/04/22/michigan-storm-flooding-homeowners-insurance/89698134007/

Petoskey City Council says it intends to preserve public access to part of the Little Traverse Wheelway, including the scenic “Miracle Mile” along Lake Michigan. The stretch has been closed since 2020 due to erosion and collapse. The decision made at Monday’s council meeting comes amid a lawsuit from landowners seeking to end trail access across their property. City leaders say they’ll continue negotiations, aiming to keep easements in place while addressing concerns. Residents praised the move. Repairs could cost up to $20 million.

Interlochen Public Radio is reporting that detainees at the North Lake Processing Facility in Baldwin have begun a hunger strike, protesting long stays, slow communication from ICE, and concerns about living conditions. The 1,800-bed center is the largest immigration detention facility in the Midwest, with about 1,400 people currently held. Some detainees say they’ve been there for months—even with deportation orders—and just want to go home. I-P-R says officials have not yet responded to inquiries about the issues.

The Michigan United Conservation Clubs says it must raise $100,000 by May first or it may shut down. Leaders say years of financial struggles have caught up, with programs already paused. About $24,000 has been raised so far, as the group works to stay afloat and find a long-term funding solution.

After 30 years, Lakeshore Tire and Auto Service—a mainland repair shop relied on by many islanders—has been sold. Owners Bob and Shannon say they’ve found the right people to take over, welcoming new owners Daniel and Michael. They say familiar staff and trusted service will remain, and they’ll be on hand in the coming weeks to help with the transition.

Finally, a few reminders:

With the warm weather, turtles are emerging. Rob Cole spotted a momma snapper on Donegal Bay Road near the Font Lake boat launch and helped her to the side.  Be on the look out to protect our tortoise friends.

A momma snapping turtle basks in the sun after being helped from the road by Rob Cole. Photo by Rob Cole from Facebook post

The Wildlife Club’s spring tree and shrub giveaway and distribution is coming up this Sunday, April 26th. They’ll have 350 plants available, including crab apples, apple and pear trees, plus dogwood and cranberry. Pick-up is at Levi’s on Paid Een Ogs Road and runs until they’re gone. Please plan to water and protect what you take—and donations are appreciated.

The Beaver Island Players are working on Beaver Tales II planning. They’ll meet at the library at 11:00 on May 2nd.

And, remember that the Boat Company has added a second run for this Friday. It will leave Charlevoix at 2:30 and head back to the mainland at 5:20.

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

First your meeting planner…

Heritage Group meets today at 5:30. AA meets Thursday and Saturday at 6:00. Locations and more details are in the calendar entries online.

On the fun front today…

Wednesday, there’s BINGO at 1:00 at the BIC Center. And at 5:00 it’s Time for Art, at the BIC Center.  This week the final session on creating plaster molds led by Cindy Ricksgers. Also Wednesday evening, students from B-I-C-S C-T-E programs will head across for a dinner honoring career and technical education class leaders. Congratulations to them and their teachers. Out in our Dark Skies, the Lyrid Meteor shower peaks tonight. There’s info on where to watch at dark sky island dot org.

Thursday Women’s Bible Study is on at 10:00 at the Christian Church. There’s Pickleball at the BIC Center at 10:00 in the Theater. At 10:30 up in the Hangout there’s Senior Tai Chi. Thursday evening, there’s Pickleball at 5:00 in the Theater at the BIC Center. Afterwards, you can grab the burger & a beer special at the Shamrock starting at 5:00, and its Euchre Night down at Whiskey Point Brewing. Cards hit the table at 7:00.

[Thursday evening on the radio, drop in for W-V-B-I’s newest music show. It’s The Underground with Leila Freijy. It’s the underground sound of grunge and more from the 80s and 90s with special features every week. Tune in at 7:00 for two hours Underground.]

Looking ahead to highlights for the rest of the week…

Friday, Senior + Vets Coffee & Donuts is at the BIC Center from 9:00 to 11:00.  There’s Pickleball at 10:00 and Chair Strength Training at 10:30.

[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 Fiero Code Club is on at the library at 1:00. Then at 2:00 the library will treat you to an Edible Book Festival. Bring something to share if you can and, either way, come hungry. Also Saturday, There are two movies at the BIC Center.  The 3:00 show is Arco, an animated sci-fi story of time travel that’s about kids and great for kids. Rated PG. At 6:00, it’s the award winning H is for Hawk. It’s the story of a daughter grieving the loss of her dad who is rescued by a stubborn hawk.  Rated PG-13. And, remember, Saturdays 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 Christian Church at 10:00 and mass at Holy Cross at 12:15.

Looking ahead to highlights for next week…

Monday evening is All You Can Eat Pizza and Salad night at the Shamrock.

Tuesday at 10:00, Babes & Toddlers mix it up at the library and there is Pickleball in the Theater at the BIC Center and, at 10:30, there’s Chair Strength Training up in the Hangout. At 2:15 there’s a Home School Meet-up at the library. At 5:00 at school, student athletes will be honored at Sports Awards night. All are welcome to attend.

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

On our Birthday List today: Maeve Green, Zander Drost, Christine Sylvan, Jamie Snowaert and Maureen Hunt. Happy Birthday to Maureen, Jamie, Christine, Maeve and Zander 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. Still, let’s be careful out there, especially in the school zone.

On this date in 1970, more than 20 million Americans take part in the very first Earth Day—a nationwide call to action for the environment.  Today, Earth Day has grown into a global event, with more than a billion people in over 190 countries taking part. It’s marked by cleanups, tree plantings, and education efforts, while also pushing action on issues like pollution, conservation, and climate change.  We’re marking the day with a special Leila Freijy hosted Earth Day edition of W-V-B-I’s Top Ten plus Five countdown this evening at 7:00.

A NASA colorized edition of the first “Earthrise” shot from Apollo 8 (which was shot in black and white). The next shot in color was widely shared and helped spur interest in the need to protect the Earth. Photo by Bill Anders colorized and enhanced by Jim Weigang  provided by NASA

Our Merriam-Webster Word of the Day is tantamount (adjective) [TAN-tuh-mount]. It’s an adjective meaning equal in value, meaning, or effect. If something is tantamount to something else, it’s basically the same thing in outcome. The word comes from an old Anglo-French phrase meaning “to amount to as much,” and while it once had noun and verb forms, today it’s almost always used as an adjective—and almost always followed by the word to. So if you say ignoring the problem is tantamount to causing it, you’re saying the two are essentially the same.

Now, to wrap up for this Beaver Island Wednesday…

Here’s a thought for the day from Apollo 8 Astronaut Bill Anders:” We came all this way to explore the Moon, and the most important thing is that we discovered the Earth.”

On a lighter note: Where do bees go to celebrate Earth Day? Bee-jing and Sting-apore!

That’s the W-V-B-I Community Calendar Report for this Beaver Island Wednesday, April 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.

###

Today

Sunny, with a high near 52/56. North wind around 5 mph becoming east in the afternoon.

Tonight

Mostly clear, with a low around 39. East wind 5 to 10 mph.

Thursday

Partly sunny, with a high near 47/52. East wind around 15 mph.

Thursday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 41. Breezy, with an east wind around 20 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph.

Friday

A 50 percent chance of showers, mainly after 2pm. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 46/51. Breezy, with an east wind 20 to 25 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph.

Friday Night

Showers likely, mainly between 8pm and 2am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 39. Breezy. Chance of precipitation is 60%.

Saturday

A 30 percent chance of showers before 8am. Partly sunny, with a high near 45/48.

Saturday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 37.

Sunday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 47/51.

Sunday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 40.

Monday

A chance of showers. Partly sunny, with a high near 50/54. Breezy.

Monday Night

A chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 41. Breezy.

Tuesday

A chance of showers. Partly sunny, with a high near 47/50. Breezy.

Out on the Big Drink …

Today

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

Thursday

ESE wind around 10 kt. Partly sunny. Waves around 1 ft.

Friday

E wind around 15 kt. A chance of showers, mainly after 1pm. Waves 2 to 3 ft.

Air Quality Index at 6:30 this morning was 14.

   Photos from webcams at wvbi.net and mackinacbridge.org

Coming up in our Community Calendar Report…

Floodwaters remain high across Northern Michigan, with recovery just beginning in some areas—and officials urging residents to report damage and watch for scams. Also, some good news from Petoskey for Wheelway fans, a hunger strike at an up-north ICE detention facility, a major conservation group faces possible closure, and a longtime mainland auto shop changes hands.

Plus—turtles on the roads, free trees this weekend, and an extra boat run Friday.

…those stories plus a run-down of local events, birthdays and more after global and national news from F-S-N. [Time check.]

Today’s Featured Image: We celebrate Earth Day with this shot of our home from Apollo 8 taken as humans watched the Earth rise over the Moon for the first time. Photo by Bill Anders provided by NASA

Water levels are slowly dropping at the Cheboygan Lock and Dam after crews successfully restarted the adjoining hydroelectric plant Friday. According to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, turbines are now pushing about one-third more water through the system—an extra 2,000 cubic feet per second. As of Sunday morning, levels had fallen slightly and remain just over seven inches below the top of the structure. The Michigan State Police Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division says levels could fluctuate as water continues moving in from upstream.

Upstream, crews are actively clearing debris at Tower Dam, increasing flow and sandbagging at Kleber Dam, and sealing small sinkholes near Alverno Dam to prevent seepage. Meanwhile, conditions around Black Lake have forced some residents to evacuate as rising water threatens homes, underscoring that while conditions are improving at the main dam, the broader situation remains unstable.

Flooding impacts continue across northern Michigan, including in Traverse City and nearby Antrim County. Along the Boardman River, water levels that recently hit record highs have begun to ease, but damage remains widespread—roads have been closed, a bridge washed out, and some evacuations were carried out in low-lying areas. Officials say conditions are improving, but hazards like sinkholes and erosion continue to pose risks.

Meanwhile, at the Bellaire Dam, water levels have stabilized at roughly a foot below the top after days of concern. Even so, officials say the situation remains tense, with upstream conditions and additional rainfall still a factor. Across the region, emergency declarations and response efforts remain in place as crews monitor rivers, infrastructure, and dam systems closely. Top of Form

Bottom of Form

On the Island, the Peaine Township Board held a special meeting Friday evening, drawing moderate attendance as residents learned more about how local road work gets done. Officials shared information on dust control, gravel, culverts, and how the township works with the Charlevoix County Road Commission—including both short- and long-term costs to taxpayers. Community members asked questions during an open discussion. Township leaders say the session was helpful, and two more identical information meetings are planned this summer to reach seasonal residents.

Over in Petoskey, the Petoskey City Council is set to meet tonight to decide the future of the Little Traverse Wheelway, a popular 26-mile trail along Lake Michigan. A lawsuit from property owners has put pressure on the city to repair a damaged section—or give up access altogether. Repairs could cost up to $20 million, and a proposed settlement would give the city one year to secure funding and permissions. If not, key easements could be lost, potentially cutting off part of the trail. The council meets at 6 p.m. at the Petoskey City Hall with the meeting livestreamed online.

In Detroit, Michigan Democrats have endorsed their candidates for two key statewide offices. Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist won the nomination for Secretary of State, while Washtenaw County Prosecutor Eli Savit secured the nod for Attorney General. But the most contentious race was for the University of Michigan Board of Regents. Civil rights attorney Amir Makled defeated incumbent Jordan Acker in a heated contest tied to protests over the war in Gaza. Acker who urged action against pro-Palestinian protestors on campus faced criticism over alleged lewd messages, while Makled drew scrutiny for past social media posts some saw as supporting Hamas. Party leaders are now urging unity heading into the fall election.

At the Elks, the Queen of Hearts remains in hiding with with Ed Rogall winning the draw but picking the Seven of Spades. The pot is $2,685.

The Queen of Hearts has eluded her seekers another time. Image from Elks Facebook post

Finally, a reminder that the Boat Company has added a second run for this  Friday. The Emerald Isle will head back to the Island after its morning run leaving Charlevoix at 2:30 and heading back to the mainland at 5:20.

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

First your meeting planner…

Waste Management Committee meets Tuesday at 1:30. BIA Board meets at 4:00. Heritage Group meets at 5:30 Wednesday. AA meets Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday at 6:00. Locations and more details are in the calendar entries online.

On the fun front today…

Monday evening is All You Can Eat Pizza and Salad night at the Shamrock.

Tuesday at 10:00, Babes & Toddlers mix it up at the library and there is Pickleball in the Theater at the BIC Center and, at 10:30, there’s Chair Strength Training up in the Hangout. At 2:15 there’s a Home School Meet-up at the library. Tuesday evening is trivia time at the BIC Center. Let’s Get Quizzical starts at 6:00 p.m. Sign your team up at tickets dot bic center dot org.

Looking ahead to highlights for the rest of the week…

Wednesday, there’s BINGO at 1:00 at the BIC Center. And at 5:00 it’s Time for Art, at the BIC Center.  This week the final session on creating plaster molds led by Cindy Ricksgers. Also Wednesday evening, students from B-I-C-S C-T-E programs will head across for a dinner honoring career and technical education class leaders. Congratulations to them and their teachers. Out in our Dark Skies, the Lyrid Meteor shower peaks tonight. There’s info on where to watch at dark sky island dot org.

Thursday Women’s Bible Study is on at 10:00 at the Christian Church. There’s Pickleball at the BIC Center at 10:00 in the Theater. At 10:30 up in the Hangout there’s Senior Tai Chi. Thursday evening, there’s Pickleball at 5:00 in the Theater at the BIC Center. Afterwards, you can grab the burger & a beer special at the Shamrock starting at 5:00, and its Euchre Night down at Whiskey Point Brewing. Cards hit the table at 7:00.

[Thursday evening on the radio, drop in for W-V-B-I’s newest music show. It’s The Underground with Leila Freijy. It’s the underground sound of grunge and more from the 80s and 90s with special features every week. Tune in at 7:00 for two hours Underground.]

Friday, Senior + Vets Coffee & Donuts is at the BIC Center from 9:00 to 11:00.  There’s Pickleball at 10:00 and Chair Strength Training at 10:30.

[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 Fiero Code Club is on at the library at 1:00. There are two movies at the BIC Center.  The 3:00 show is Arco, an animated sci-fi story of time travel that’s about kids and great for kids. Rated PG. At 6:00, it’s the award winning H is for Hawk. It’s the story of a daughter grieving the loss of her dad who is rescued by a stubborn hawk.  Rated PG-13. And, remember, Saturdays 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 Christian Church at 10:00 and mass at Holy Cross at 12:15.

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

On our Birthday List today: Sue Heller Martin, Michael Stebbins, and Chris McGee. Happy Birthday to Sue, Chris 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 continues to improve with lots of work from the road crews. West side drive is pretty much back to normal. Work continues on East Side. There are no bridge delays. Still, let’s be careful out there, especially in the school zone.

On this date in 2010, the offshore oil rig Deepwater Horizon explodes in the Gulf of Mexico. The blast, on a platform run by Transocean, kills 11 workers and triggers the largest accidental marine oil spill in history—releasing millions of barrels of oil.

Aftermath of the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. Photo by Green Fire Productions from Wikimedia Commons.

Our Merriam-Webster Word of the Day is indoctrinate (verb) [in-DAHK-truh-nayt]. In modern usage it usually means to brainwash as most often used today. The word comes from  Latin verb docēre [DOH-keh-reh], meaning to teach. And when it first appeared in English it meant to the same. Today it’s most often used when ideas are taught in a strong or one-sided way. 

Now, to wrap up for this Beaver Island Monday…

Here’s a thought for the day: “There are no traffic jams along the extra mile.”

On a lighter note: Why did the cookie go to the doctor? It was feeling crumbly.

That’s the W-V-B-I Community Calendar Report for this Beaver Island Monday, April 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.

###

Today

Sunny, with a high near 39/42. Southwest wind 5 to 15 mph.

Tonight

Mostly cloudy, with a low around 36. Breezy, with a southwest wind 15 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph.

Tuesday

Sunny, with a high near 45/50. Southwest wind 10 to 15 mph.

Tuesday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 35. North wind 5 to 10 mph.

Wednesday

Sunny, with a high near 44/49. Northeast wind around 5 mph becoming southeast in the afternoon.

Wednesday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 38.

Thursday

Partly sunny, with a high near 49/54.

Thursday Night

A chance of showers after 2am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 43. Breezy.

Friday

Showers likely, mainly after 2pm. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 48/52. Breezy.

Friday Night

Showers likely, mainly before 8pm. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 39.

Saturday

Partly sunny, with a high near 45/48.

Saturday Night

Mostly cloudy, with a low around 37.

Sunday

Partly sunny, with a high near 45/49.

Out on the Big Drink …

Today

WNW wind 5 to 15 kt becoming SW in the afternoon. Sunny. Waves 1 to 2 ft.

Tuesday

SW wind 10 to 15 kt becoming WNW in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 25 kt. Sunny. Waves 4 ft subsiding to 1 ft.

Wednesday

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

Air Quality Index at 6:30 this morning was 3.

   Photos from webcams at wvbi.net and mackinacbridge.org

Coming up in our Community Calendar Report…

Floodwaters are slowly receding at the Cheboygan Lock and Dam, but evacuations near Black Lake and ongoing concerns at the Bellaire Dam show the situation isn’t over yet.

We’ll also tell you about damage in Traverse City, a key decision tonight on the Little Traverse Wheelway in Petoskey, and the latest from Michigan Democrats’ convention—including a controversial regents race. Plus, the Queen of Hearts jackpot grows again…

…those stories plus a run-down of local events, birthdays and more after global and national news from F-S-N. [Time check.]

Today’s Featured Image: This morning’s nippy temps in the teens are offset with sanguine skies over Paradise Bay and the Mackinac Bridge. Photos from webcams at wvbi.net and mackinacbridge.org

Flooding concerns continue across Northern Michigan, though there are some signs of stabilization. On the Island, work on East Side Drive is progressing well with the road passable and residents in the area saying it no longer is a challenge to get through. At the Cheboygan Dam, water levels remain high with residents still in a “set” phase of ready, set, go for possible evacuation as the system stays under pressure. The Cheboygan County Sheriff’s Office is also warning residents on the Alverno area to be ready to leave as high water begins to threaten a dam there. In Bellaire, water at the dam has steadied at about a foot below the top, offering cautious relief—but officials say the situation remains tense with more rain possible and say residents should be in ready mode. In Traverse City, the Boardman River recently hit record levels, washing out roads and forcing closures, with damage reported to bridges and riverfront areas. Across the region, flooded roads, culvert failures, and washouts continue to impact travel—even as some rivers begin to slowly recede.

The DNR posts info on the levels at the Cheboygan Dam and Lock Complex alongside a Statewide Severe Weather Dashboard. Image from Michigan DNR

Governor Gretchen Whitmer toured the Cheboygan Lock and Dam Thursday alongside State Senator John Damoose, getting an up-close look at flood control efforts. Crews continue working around the clock—placing sandbags, running pumps, and increasing water flow—to prevent a failure. Whitmer praised the response, calling workers exhausted but determined to protect lives and property.

While today will be clear, the next round of weather arrives late Friday into Saturday as a cold front brings showers and thunderstorms to northern Michigan. Rainfall of up to three-quarters of an inch is expected, which could worsen ongoing flooding. While severe storms are unlikely, a few stronger cells are possible. Flood Watches remain in effect for most of northwest lower Michigan and the eastern U-P. Behind the system, much colder air moves in, with highs in the 40s and even a chance of lake-effect snow. Drier weather returns early next week, offering some relief.

In other news, the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians has finalized its $27 million purchase of the former Northwestern Michigan College Boardman Lake Campus. The tribe plans to convert the site into a central government hub, expanding services for members across the region.

The Beaver Island Irish Heritage Group has been awarded a $21,200 grant from the Michigan Arts and Culture Council to support the Emerald Isle Irish Féile. The funding will help continue celebrating the island’s Irish heritage through music, dance, storytelling, and workshops. Organizers are thanking the state council and the National Endowment for the Arts for supporting local arts and culture.

The Boat Company has added a second run for next Friday. The Emerald Isle will head back to the Island after its morning run leaving Charlevoix at 2:30 and heading back to the mainland at 5:20.

The Emerald Isle will make two round trips on April 24^th. Image from BIBCO Facebook post

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

First your meeting planner…

Peaine Township Board has a special meeting set for Friday at 5:30 on township roads.  A-A meets Saturday evening at 6:00. Next week, Waste Management Committee meets Tuesday at 1:30. BIA Board meets at 4:00. Heritage Group meets at 5:30 Wednesday. Locations and more details are in the calendar entries online.

On the fun front today…

[Thursday evening on the radio, drop in for W-V-B-I’s newest music show. It’s The Underground with Leila Freijy. It’s the underground sound of grunge and more from the 80s and 90s with special features every week. Tune in at 7:00 for two hours Underground.]

Friday, Senior + Vets Coffee & Donuts is at the BIC Center from 9:00 to 11:00.  There’s Pickleball at 10:00 and Chair Strength Training at 10:30.

[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 Fiero Code Club is on at the library at 1:00. No movies at the BIC Center this Saturday, but it will be open for fun in the Hangout, snacks and meals. And, remember, Saturdays 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 Christian Church at 10:00 and mass at Holy Cross at 12:15.

Looking ahead to highlights for next week…

Monday evening is All You Can Eat Pizza and Salad night at the Shamrock.

Tuesday at 10:00, Babes & Toddlers mix it up at the library and there is Pickleball in the Theater at the BIC Center and, at 10:30, there’s Chair Strength Training up in the Hangout. At 2:15 there’s a Home School Meet-up at the library. Tuesday evening is trivia time at the BIC Center. Let’s Get Quizzical starts at 6:00 p.m. Sign your team up at tickets dot bic center dot org.

Wednesday, there’s BINGO at 1:00 at the BIC Center. And at 5:00 it’s Time for Art, at the BIC Center.  This week the final session on creating plaster molds led by Cindy Ricksgers. Also Wednesday evening, students from B-I-C-S C-T-E programs will head across for a dinner honoring career and technical education class leaders. Congratulations to them and their teachers. Out in our Dark Skies, the Lyrid Meteor shower peaks tonight. There’s info on where to watch at dark sky island dot org.

Thursday Women’s Bible Study is on at 10:00 at the Christian Church. There’s Pickleball at the BIC Center at 10:00 in the Theater. At 10:30 up in the Hangout there’s Senior Tai Chi. Thursday evening, there’s Pickleball at 5:00 in the Theater at the BIC Center. Afterwards, you can grab the burger & a beer special at the Shamrock starting at 5:00, and its Euchre Night down at Whiskey Point Brewing. Cards hit the table at 7:00.

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

On our Birthday List today: Duane Mooney, Nick Spanhak and Greyson Martell. Happy Birthday to Greyson, Nick and Duane 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…and today look slike a good day for flying. The Island Beltway continues to improve with lots of work from the road crews. There are no bridge delays. Still, let’s be careful out there, especially in the school zone.

On this date in 1961, the Bay of Pigs Invasion began, as a CIA-trained force of Cuban exiles landed on the island in an effort to overthrow Fidel Castro. Backed by the United States, the operation aimed to spark an uprising—but it quickly unraveled. Within three days, Cuban forces defeated the invaders, marking a major Cold War embarrassment for the U.S. and strengthening Castro’s hold on power.

The Bay of Pigs is on Cuba’s southern shore. Apparently, the name comes from a the translated (from Spanish) name of a triggerfish found in the bay. Image from Wikimedia Commons.

Our Merriam-Webster Word of the Day is postulate (verb) [POS-chuh-layt]. It means to suggest or assume something is true as a starting point for reasoning or discussion.

The word comes from Latin postulare, meaning “to demand” or “to claim.” Over time, it evolved into a more thoughtful idea—something proposed, not proven. Scientists might postulate the existence of water on a distant moon… or you might postulate that ordering takeout just makes sense tonight.

Either way, it’s where a good idea begins.

Now, to wrap up for this Beaver Island Friday…

Here’s a thought for the day from John F. Kenedy, who has President when the Bay of Pigs invasion was launched: “Efforts and courage are not enough without purpose and direction.”

On a lighter note: Here’s a quote from Fidel Castro: “History will absolve me.” Hmmm.  I postulate not.

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

###

Today

Widespread fog before 10am. Otherwise, mostly sunny, with a high near 53/62. South wind 5 to 10 mph becoming east in the afternoon.

Tonight

A chance of rain and thunderstorms, then rain and possibly a thunderstorm after 11pm. Low around 35. Breezy, with a south wind 15 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph. Chance of precipitation is 90%. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.

Saturday

A slight chance of rain showers before noon, then scattered snow showers. Mostly cloudy, with a temperature falling to around 35 by 9am. Breezy, with a northwest wind 15 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph. Chance of precipitation is 50%.

Saturday Night

Scattered snow showers before 8pm. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 28. Breezy, with a west wind 15 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph. Chance of precipitation is 30%.

Sunday

Partly sunny, with a high near 34/37. Breezy, with a northwest wind around 20 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.

Sunday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 28. Blustery.

Monday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 39/41.

Monday Night

Mostly cloudy, with a low around 36. Breezy.

Tuesday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 46/48. Breezy.

Tuesday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 36.

Wednesday

Sunny, with a high near 46/49.

Wednesday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 39.

Thursday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 48/51.

Out on the Big Drink …

Today

SE wind 5 to 10 kt. Waves 1 ft or less.

Saturday

W wind 15 to 20 kt. Patchy fog before 8am. Waves 2 to 3 ft.

Sunday

NW wind 15 to 20 kt. Waves 2 to 3 ft.

Monday

NW wind around 10 kt becoming SW in the afternoon. Waves 1 ft or less.

Tuesday

SSW wind 10 to 20 kt becoming W in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 30 kt. Waves 3 to 5 ft.

Air Quality Index at 6:30 this morning was 13.

   Photos from webcams at wvbi.net and mackinacbridge.org

Coming up in our Community Calendar Report…

Flooding concerns continue across Northern Michigan, with some stabilization—but high water still threatening areas like Cheboygan and Bellaire. More rain is on the way this weekend, and crews are working around the clock to hold the line. Plus, the Heritage Group scores a big grant and added boat trips next Friday.

…those stories plus a run-down of local events, birthdays and more after global and national news from F-S-N. [Time check.]

Today’s Featured Image: The NWS says more rain is on the way starting this evening, plus high winds. Image from NWS Gaylord office

Even as an evacuation order was lifted for some low-lying areas near Cheboygan Wednesday, concerns remain about high water across Northern Michigan. The earlier evacuation followed a levee breach in the Little Black River watershed—not the Cheboygan Dam—but water levels at the lock and dam complex continue to fluctuate. After rising overnight, levels dipped slightly by midday, then began climbing again by evening. Officials say the situation remains unpredictable.

Meanwhile, Cheboygan Area Schools canceled classes Wednesday, along with all after-school activities, as a precaution. Schools were also closed in T-C.

Water levels at the Bellaire Dam remain steady, but with more rain expected, officials are preparing for possible evacuations. Areas downstream are under “Ready” status, urging residents to pack essentials and be prepared to leave. No evacuation has been ordered yet, but centers at Bellaire High School and the Commission on Aging are ready if needed.

Near Glen Arbor, the Crystal River has flooded the lower level of the iconic Mill restaurant, though service continues upstairs. Residents near Black Lake are being urged to prepare for rising water, with some homes already affected. And in Ellsworth, an overwhelmed culvert is raising concerns about a potential failure that could trigger additional flooding and strain the Bellaire Dam.

T-C officials say it may take six months to get the bridge on Beitner Road repaired. That cuts off an important commuting route into T-C. Meantime, Airport Road by Logan’s Landing, which was threatened with a similar bridge collapse, seems to be surviving and could be open  again within a week.

The National Weather Service says flooding risks will continue into Sunday with more rain in the forecast combining with the snow melt.

The NWS says additional rounds of rain chances through the rest of the week will keep flooding concerns in the forefront. Graphic from NWS Gaylord office

With all the flooding, health officials are warning that private well water may no longer be safe to use. They say that when floodwaters cover a well, bacteria, viruses, and chemicals can enter the water supply, increasing the risk of illness. Residents with private wells are urged to avoid drinking the water, use bottled water instead, and properly clean, flush, and disinfect their systems. If needed, water should be boiled for at least five minutes before use. For help with testing and next steps, call 800-432-4121.

As up north deals with flooding, downstate has been hit by tornados. The National Weather Service has confirmed seven tornadoes including an EF-1 tornado hit Ann Arbor with winds up to 110 miles per hour.

Even as the snow melt continues to cause problems across the region, a record winter is keeping skiing alive at Boyne Mountain Resort. Resort officials say a deep snow base and strong snowmaking have preserved enough coverage for spring skiing, with no flooding concerns on site. Limited lift operations are continuing on weekends, and the season could stretch toward May—making it one of the longest in the Midwest.

On the Island, the Wildlife Club is once again helping add plants to the Island with plans to distribute 350 trees and shrubs later this spring. Varieties include crab apples, Fuji apple, pear, silky dogwood, and cranberry trees. Pickup is tentatively set for April 26th at Levi’s on Paid Een Ogs Road and will continue while supplies last. Organizers ask participants to properly water and protect the plants to ensure survival. Trees are available by freewill donation, and no holds will be offered—so plan accordingly.

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

First your meeting planner…

Saint James Township board has a special meeting set for today at 5:00. Library Board meets today as well at 4:30 as does the J-TAC, again at 4:30.  A-A meets this evening and Saturday evening at 6:00. Peaine Township Board has a special meeting set for Friday at 5:30 on township roads. Locations and more details are in the calendar entries online.

On the fun front today…

Thursday Women’s Bible Study is on at 10:00 at the Christian Church. There’s Pickleball at the BIC Center at 10:00 in the Theater. At 10:30 up in the Hangout there’s Senior Tai Chi. Thursday evening, there’s Pickleball at 5:00 in the Theater at the BIC Center. Afterwards, you can grab the burger & a beer special at the Shamrock starting at 5:00, and its Euchre Night down at Whiskey Point Brewing. Cards hit the table at 7:00.

[Thursday evening on the radio, drop in for W-V-B-I’s newest music show. It’s The Underground with Leila Freijy. It’s the underground sound of grunge and more from the 80s and 90s with special features every week. Tune in at 7:00 for two hours Underground.]

Highlights for the rest of the week include…

Friday, Senior + Vets Coffee & Donuts is at the BIC Center from 9:00 to 11:00.  There’s Pickleball at 10:00 and Chair Strength Training at 10:30.

[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 Fiero Code Club is on at the library at 1:00. No movies at the BIC Center this Saturday, but it will be open for fun in the Hangout, snacks and meals. And, remember, Saturdays 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 Christian Church at 10:00 and mass at Holy Cross at 12:15.

Looking ahead to highlights for next week…

Monday evening is All You Can Eat Pizza and Salad night at the Shamrock.

Tuesday at 10:00, Babes & Toddlers mix it up at the library and there is Pickleball in the Theater at the BIC Center and, at 10:30, there’s Chair Strength Training up in the Hangout. At 2:15 there’s a Home School Meet-up at the library. Tuesday evening is trivia time at the BIC Center. Let’s Get Quizzical starts at 6:00 p.m. Sign your team up at tickets dot bic center dot org.

Wednesday, there’s BINGO at 1:00 at the BIC Center. And at 5:00 it’s Time for Art, at the BIC Center.  This week the final session on creating plaster molds led by Cindy Ricksgers. Also Wednesday evening, dome students from B-I-C-S will head across for a dinner honoring career and technical education class leaders. Congratulations to them and their teachers.

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

On our Birthday List today: Mackenzie Cole, Deputy Neal Green, Kimberly Reed and Steve Rarionoff. Happy Birthday to Kim, Mackenzie, Steve and Neal 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 improving on the west side with some grading yesterday, but the issues at the south end of East Side Drive continue. There are no bridge delays. Still, let’s be careful out there, especially in the school zone.

On this date in 1964, The Rolling Stones burst onto the scene with their debut album, The Rolling Stones—released in the U.S. as England’s Newest Hit Makers. It topped the U.K. charts for twelve straight weeks and launched one of rock’s most legendary careers.

The Rolling Stones in July 1963. From left: Charlie Watts, Bill Wyman, Mick Jagger, Brian Jones, Keith Richards. Image from Wikimedia Commons.

Our Merriam-Webster Word of the Day is brazen (adjective) [BRAY-zun]. It describes something done boldly and openly—without shame or embarrassment. Originally, brazen meant “made of brass,” from an Old English word. Over time, it took on a new meaning—from the hardness of brass—to describe someone with a “face of brass” … showing no shame at all. Today, it’s used for people—or actions—with a shameless boldness, like a brazen disregard for the rules.

Now, to wrap up for this Beaver Island Thursday…

Here’s a thought for the day from Mick Jagger: “Anything worth doing is worth overdoing.”

On a lighter note: How do the Rolling Stones keep their clothes wrinkle-free? They rock and roll all night and iron all day.

That’s the W-V-B-I Community Calendar Report for this Beaver Island Thursday, April 16th, 2026. Until then, 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.

###

Today

A slight chance of rain before 8am, then scattered showers, mainly between 8am and 2pm. Areas of dense fog before noon. Otherwise, cloudy, then gradually becoming mostly sunny, with a high near 44/48. Northwest wind 5 to 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 30%.

Tonight

Isolated showers before 8pm. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 36. West wind around 5 mph becoming east in the evening. Chance of precipitation is 10%.

Friday

Partly sunny, with a high near 54/60. Southeast wind 5 to 10 mph.

Friday Night

A chance of showers before 11pm, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms between 11pm and 2am, then showers and possibly a thunderstorm after 2am. Low around 36. Breezy, with a south wind 15 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph. Chance of precipitation is 90%.

Saturday

Rain showers before 5pm, then a slight chance of rain and snow showers. High near 42/44. Breezy, with a west wind around 20 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80%. Little or no snow accumulation expected.

Saturday Night

Mostly cloudy, with a low around 29. Breezy.

Sunday

Partly sunny, with a high near 35/37. Breezy.

Sunday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 30/26. Blustery.

Monday

Sunny, with a high near 40/42.

Monday Night

Mostly cloudy, with a low around 35. Breezy.

Tuesday

Partly sunny, with a high near 46. Breezy.

Tuesday Night

Partly cloudy, with a low around 36.

Wednesday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 44.

Out on the Big Drink …

Today

Variable winds 5 kt or less. Widespread dense fog, mainly between 7am and 8am. Waves 1 ft or less.

Friday

SE wind 5 to 10 kt. Areas of dense fog before 7am. Waves 1 ft or less.

Saturday

W wind around 15 kt. A chance of rain showers before 4pm, then a slight chance of snow showers. Waves 2 to 3 ft.

Air Quality Index at 6:30 this morning was 13.

   Photos from webcams at wvbi.net and mackinacbridge.org

Coming up in our Community Calendar Report…

Flood concerns aren’t over yet across Northern Michigan—even as some evacuation orders near Cheboygan have been lifted. Water levels are still unpredictable, more rain is on the way, and officials say residents should stay ready.

Plus, seven tornadoes touch down downstate, well water safety warnings are issued, and up north… ski season just keeps going.

…those stories plus a run-down of local events, birthdays and more after global and national news from F-S-N. [Time check.]

Today’s Featured Image: There’s a lake out there somewhere, but it looks like another no-fly day. Image from WVBI webcam at the BIC Center