B.I. News on the 'Net, April 11-17, 2011

From Island Treasures Resale Shop

CLOSED APRIL 21-23, 2011 

The dedicated "winter" volunteers at the Resale Shop will close the store next weekend to allow them time for celebration and relaxation. We have enjoyed an active winter season with our regular customers. Our spring hours will continue to be Thurs. through Sat., noon until 4:00. We will expand that schedule once summer workers are available. 
We are eager to accept donations of spring and summer clothing, household goods, craft supplies, tools, toys, and treasures. If you need help with donations , please call Donna at 448-2797.

 
HAPPY EASTER !

USCG Bouy Tender Alder Sets Buoys

The USCG today, April 14, 2011, came to set buoys for the Islands. The vessel Alder set the one mile and three mile buoys. Then a smaller boat was put over the side of the larger vessel to place the channel buoys in St. James Harbor. This smaller vessel also went out to place the Garden Island buoys. The ice buoys were replaced with boating season buoys some of which are bell buoys. It is quite interesting to watch the process, but is more exciting because this marks the beginning of the boating season. The Alder has been setting the Island's buoys for a few years now. Here are a few specifics of the vessel from their website:

  ALDER is one of the most advanced vessels afloat, integrating the latest technological developments in computers, navigation, environmental protection, and remote monitoring systems.  The Integrated Ship Control System coordinates radar, satellite navigation, and computer generated charts with the ship's controllable pitch propeller, rudder, and thrusters. With these advancements working in concert, ALDER can maintain station within a 5-meter circle without human intervention in even the most challenging weather.  ALDER is also equipped with an advanced oil-skimming system known as the Spilled Oil Recovery System (SORS). Capable of performing Aids to Navigation, Icebreaking, Search and Rescue, Homeland Security, Law Enforcement, and Marine Environmental Protection, Alder is a true multi-mission platform.  ALDER and her sister ships will help ensure that the  U. S. Coast Guard remains the world's premier maritime organization well into the next millennium.

ALDER Design Features:
Complement                50 (8 Officers, 42 Enlisted)
Displacement               2,000 tons at design draft (full load)
Length                         225 feet
Beam                          46 feet
Draft                            13 feet
Speed                         15 knots at full load displacement (80% rated power)
Range                         6,000 miles at 12 knots

ALDER Performance Characteristics:
Ice Operations              14" fresh water ice at 3 knots continuous speed
                                   36" packed fresh water ice by ramming
Main Propulsion            Two 3100hp Caterpillar diesel engines
                                   Bow thruster (fixed pitch, 450hp)
                                   Stern thruster (fixed pitch, 550hp)
Electrical Power           Two 450kw ship's service diesel generators
                                  One 285kw emergency diesel generator
Deck Equipment           22' rigid-hull-inflatable boat
                                   24' aluminum workboat
Buoy Crane                  40'-60' extendable length boom
                                   40,000lbs capacity on the main hoist
                                   10,000lbs capacity on the auxiliary hoist

Video of Alder Setting the Harbor entrance buoy

 

Men's Golf League Forming for Summer

The link takes you to view the golf sign-up sheet that Buck Ridgeway has posted in the clubhouse. The total number of teams that sign up determines the length of the league play for the summer, so please call if you are unable to stop in and sign-up at the golf course.

Link to Men's Golf League form

Ospreys Are Back

A quick trip down Sloptown Road today, April 14, 2011, was to check on the ospreys and then a similar trip down Barney's Lake Road to check on the loons. Today, the surprise was evident in the discovery of these osprey that showed up in the trees across the road from the microwave tower. These osprey appear to be younger than the pair that were in the nest last year, but you can see for yourself in these pictures or you can take a trip down Sloptown Road and see them for yourself.

One osprey was in the dead tree closest to the road, and a second one was in the tree about one eighth the distance of the driveway.

 

Human Services Commission Resource Manual

The Human Services Commission of Peaine and St. James townships has put together a resource manual--a guide to services available to all residents of Beaver Island.  A copy of this resource manual appears below.  Printed copies will soon be available at a number of locations, including the medical center and the library.  Other locations will be announces later.  Many thanks to Joan Vyse and Judi Meister for coordinating the information in the manual.

Complete Guide to Charlevoix County Human Services HERE

Legislators Visit the Island on April 15, 2011

In an effort to help our state legislators understand the special circumstances of Beaver Island, Bill McDonough has organized this visit with the help of a few others. Thanks to Bill and his helpers. There is a luncheon scheduled at the Beaver Island Community Center that begins at 12:30 p.m. These visitors will be visiting several locations on the Island including the Rural Health Center, Forest View Senior Apartments, the Beaver Island Community School, the Beaver Island Boat Company ferry Emerald Isle, the Beaver Island Transportation Authority, and the Central Michigan Biological Station.

Information about these visitors HERE

Visitors on the Island

 

Mute Swans Take Over Loon Nesting Site

In a quick swing to Barney's Lake last evening, after a report that the loons were back, (Thank you Pam Grassmick), there was an interesting discovery. Last year, the mute swans nested way down at the south end of Barney's Lake, to the left if you were facing the lake. This year the they are nesting at the same site that the loons nested two years ago. It will be interesting to see what transpires this year. The mute swans have been identified as an invasive species. They sure do take over the lake even to the extent of chasing the loons away from that site. It also appears that the loons are not ready to nest.

No doubt about the mute swans building a nest at the loons' nesting location.

 

Loon antics on the lake..

 

There were two loons as well as ducks on Barney's Lake on April 12, 2011. One of the loons disappeared shortly after arrival at the lake for picture taking. The ducks and the mute swans weren't so shy.

There were other animals viewed on the ride back from Barney's Lake. Here are a couple more pictures of the wildlife seen. Obviously the deer and the turkeys are not shy at this time of day. The male turkeys are little distracted by the mating ritual.

New Planning Commission Ordinance

St. James Township approved this ordinance at their April 6, 2011, meeting.

Available Here

Citizen of the Year Banquet

The 2010 Citizen of the Year has been selected.

The Award Banquet will be Saturday, April 30, 2011.

Please call Stoney Acre Grill & Pub (231) 448-2560 for reservations

Sirloin Tips Gaelic

Braised, Choice Sirloin Tips with shallots, garlic and seasonings, deglazed with Irish Mist and finished with cream. Served over penne pasta and garnished with grated Pecorino Romano.

Roast Half-Chicken with Mushrooms

(Poulet au Champignon)

Roast spring Chicken topped with sautéed fresh mushrooms and resting in a sauce of chicken stock, horseradish, garlic, seasonings and cream. New Potatoes and Vegetable accompany.

Yellow Lake Perch

Eight hand-dusted Lake Erie Perch, lightly fried and served with House Slaw, Vegetable, Saffron Rice and House Tartar.

*All dinners are served with an amuse, a small garden salad, herbed bread, and dessert. Cost per dinner is $20. Does not include gratuity. Alcohol & beverages extra.

Cormorant Harassment Training and Antler Point Restriction Public Meeting

This meeting was held at the Beaver Island Community Center following the U. S. Department of Agriculture, APHIS, Wildlife Services training for the cormorant harassment program presented by Tony Aderman, who is the Gaylord District Supervisor. The training began at 5:30 p.m., and lasted until approximately 6:45 p.m. on Monday, April 11, 2011.. The training was informative even to those who had not participated in this program previously. Tony Aderman reviewed the programs on Beaver Island in consultation with Jeff Powers, Bob Tidmore, and Gary Morgan. The areas for cormorant harassment that had been designated previously include Lake Geneserath with Gary Morgan the chief contact person, and the harbor with Bob Tidmore the chief contact person. If you wish further information the two contact persons mentioned herein should be your first contact as each was appointed as site coordinator. Pyrotechnics, the non-lethal method of cormorant harassment, was the primary area discussed with most harassment on the island consisting of this. There is also another component, the lethal method, which was only touched on as an option after all other efforts of harassment have been considered.

The Power Point presentation began with a picture of a double breasted cormorant picture in which the bird was consuming a large pike. Beyond that, the presentation covered the basic rules, the legalities, particularly of storage of pyrotechnics and ammunition, and the time frame for the harassment program. Any questions about this program should be taken to the two contact persons mentioned above.

The Antler Point Restriction Public Hearing took place at the B. I. Community Center on the same night beginning at 7 p.m. In attendance at this meaning, which also gave it the importance that it deserved, were two MDNRE Commissioners; John Matigan and John Mantonich. In addition from the Department of Natural Resources were Russ Mason, MDNR Wildlife Division Chief; Rex Ainsliee, MDNRE Supervisor for Northern Michigan; and Brian Mastenbrook, Wildlife Biologist for the MDNRE from Gaylord. After an introduction of the Natural Resources personnel, Jeff Powers provided the background knowledge about what had led to this night's meeting including the antler point restriction survey and well as the deer population estimates shown here:

He then introduced Brian Mastenbrook who discussed the DNR deer management plans. Russ Mason then talked about Wildlife Certification and Quality Deer Management from the DNR perspective. Russ Mason stated that Beaver Island was put on a fast track through a procedure that normally would take three years.. An attempt was being made to have this meeting to hear about any concerns from the public about the Antler Point Restrictions. Russ Mason also stated that the QDM portion was only a very small portion of a Wildlife Certification Plan that the Island would need to complete. Beaver Island was the first Wildlife Certification and the hope was that this would evolve and become an example for the whole state. Many members of the public asked questions, but the general consensus of all those present was that the antler point restriction would be a good thing for the island. The public still has until the June MDNR commission meeting to comment on this plan, but that in order to be enacted, it would need to be completed at this June MDNR Commissioner Meeting to be included in the rules for the 2011 Deer Season.

There were many good questions and good issues raised with good answers provided. The Wildlife Certification process is still one in development, and Beaver Island will be part of this process, the first community to do so. The thirty-five people attending the meeting were very receptive.

Brian Mastendbrook.....................................Russ Mason.............................................. Rex Ainsliee

Video of Entire Meeting HERE

March of Dimes Raffling a Ford Mustang

Interesting Early Spring Evening

A quick phone call from Yvonne Crandall caused a quick trip into the harbor area last evening, April 10, 2011. "The sun is shining through the fog....." So two photographers got in the vehicle and headed in to try to catch the moment in time. Perhaps a few pictures will say much more than the words that could be written, but, whether or not this is what Yvonne was talking about, this is what we found interesting.

Fog drifting across the harbor....

The fog was moving faster than a creeping, creepy fog......Some kids at the playground

Also interesting was the sound of these ice needles bouncing around and moving in the vortex like current on the northeast side of the harbor.

Spooky Fog

 

Mute Swans in the Fog

 

Ice Needles in the Wind and the Fog

 

The Beaver Island Ice Classic

The long awaited conclusion of the Beaver Island Ice Classic is upon us. The moving ice in the harbor with the strong south winds caused swirling of the ice in the Paradise Bay harbor. The tower was pushed off the ice by this strong wind. The tower clock stopped at  12:20 PM on April 10, 2011. The winner will be determined later today, April 11, 2011.

From Bob Tidmore:

The winner this year is the Nilles family who I understand has a summer place on the island. Their guess was 12:32 PM only 12 minutes away from when the tower clock stopped at 12:20 PM. J Johnson was next with a guess of 1:00 PM. Others close were Joe Peckins at 11:15 AM and Paul Welke at 11:11 AM.

The ticket sales amounted to $2,095 and the winner will receive 1/2.

Thanks again for all those who participated and also to the Beaver Island Marine for the use of their barge and the retrieval of the tower,

I made a short movie of the tower after it went in and if you listen closely you can hear a noise over the wind that must be the ice breaking up or moving, it sounds like cellophane being crushed.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FdabkTploXc

More Eagles

There have been a pair of bald eagles, along with a young, immature eagle, out on the ice of Paradise Bay for the last few days. These creatures fascinate more than one person, so another picture is presented.

Peaine Township Meeting Agenda

This Wednesday night at 7 p.m. is the April Peaine Township Meeting at the Peaine Township Hall.

AGENDA (draft)

•  Call to Order and Pledge of Allegiance

•  Supervisor and Public Comment--Review, Revise-if-Needed, Approve Agenda

•  Review, Revise-if-Needed, Correct Minutes of February 9, 2011, Approve Minutes March 9, 2011 Regular Board Meeting and March 26, 2011 Special Board Meeting

•  Review and Approve bills for payment

•  Review statement of work performed by deputy officers

•  Discuss any questions regarding bills submitted for approval

c. Reconsider treatment/payment of Airport Agreement legal fees

•  Approval of Assessor Agreement 

•  Designate Monthly Board Meeting Dates for April 1, 2011 thru March 31, 2012 

•  Committees, Boards, Commissions

•  Planning Commission – Complying with Michigan Planning Enabling Act – Discussion – Resolutions to adopt proposed Ordinance, Disbanding of existing Planning Commission and Appointment of new Commission members including David Howell

•  Posting of vacancies on Parks & Trails Committee

•  Township Updates

•  Air Ambulance Service

•  Public Comment

•  Adjourn:

Please Attend Next Regular Board Meeting, May 11, 2011—7:00 p.m.

Beaver Island Wildlife Club & Michigan DNRE

Public Meeting: Antler Point Restriction Plan for Deer Hunting on Beaver Island

Beaver Island Community Center

April 11, 2011

I. Introduction of Special Guests

A. John Madigan, NRC Commissioner

B. John Mantonich, NRC Commissioner

C. Russ Mason, MDNR Wildlife Division Chief

D. Rex Ainsliee, Supervisor, MDNRE N. Michigan Mngmnt Unit

E. Brian Mastenbrook, Wildlife Biologist, Gaylord

II. Background of Deer Management Analysis and Plans for Beaver Island, Jeffrey Powers DVM, President, Beaver Island Wildlife Club

III. Discussion of DNR Deer Management Plans

Brian Mastenbrook

IV. Discussion of Wildlife Certification & QDM from DNR Perspective

Russ Mason

V. Q & A from Audience, Panel Discussion

Russ Mason, Brian Mastenbrook, Jeffrey Powers

VI. Wrap up

Emerald Isle Second Trip

 

Wendy Anne in the Early Morning

 

Eagles on the Ice Again

 

Veteran's Memorial

 

St. James Township Meeting, April 5, 2011

The St. James Board had a very intense conversation about the sewer system repairs that are necessary. The tanks out on Donegal Bay Road need to be coated on the inside with a substance that will prevent the acid in the waste from destroying the cement tanks at the the site. The tanks are approximately 42x12 (2 tanks) and one somewhat smaller. The cost to the users of the sewer system will be in the neighborhood of $60,000. St. James Board passed a motion for BIEMS and BIRHC to hire an FAA consultant to help resolve the emergency air transport situation. A change in the Michigan law required the townships to dissolve the Planning Commission and then recreate the Planning Commission under that new legislation.

Video of the Entire Meeting is HERE

First Barge Load of the Season

Matt Fogg and his crew, Mike Weede and Dusty Cushman, spent some time getting things ready for the this first trip. The first thing necessary was to break up some more ice so that the barge could get through the harbor from the St. James Marine dock to the Beaver Island Boat Company Dock. This probably would have been easier had the temperatures been a little warmer for the last few days.

The BI Boat Company ferry, the Emerald Isle left right on schedule this morning on its second trip of the season...

You can see in this picture that there is still ice between the Wendy Anne's dock and the point, although a track was broken out yesterday. You can see from the picture below that the wind was blowing, but it wasn't in the correct direction to blow the ice out of the harbor.

Veteran's Memorial flags

The day was warming up and the wind was blowing at a good clip. A nice day for a trip to Charlevoix and then on to Ironton.

Discussion prior to embarking...

Breaking the ice near the dock.......breaking ice in front of the barge....... pulling in to attach the barge

Casting off in preparation for pulling out.

Pulling away from the dock and getting oriented into the proper direction....

Big sheet of ice pushes a couple pilings

Through the harbor......................................Out of the harbor.....................................................and on its way...

We look forward to the return trip to see what the Wendy Anne may bring back to the island. Safe travels.....We hope your time getting into Ironton is not too tough...

Video of the Barge and Wendy Anne HERE

SENEY NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

1674 Refuge Entrance Road

Seney, MI 49883

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 6, 2011

Contact: Mark Vaniman 906-586-9851, ext. 11

Access to Hat Island to be Limited in 2011

The Refuge manager has decided that, for the 2011 field season, access to Hat Island will be restricted to refuge personnel and Central Michigan University researchers in order to monitor and conduct population surveys.Under the terms of a Public Resource Depredation Order, populations of Double Crested Cormorants are being managed in the Great Lakes. Numbers of these fish eating birds have increased dramatically and are impacting island vegetation and may be causing damage to the fishery.Seney National Wildlife Refuge is responsible for conserving migratory birds and their habitats on Hat, Gull, Shoe and Pismire Islands in the Beaver Archipelago, all part of Michigan Islands National Wildlife Refuge (NWR).

Since 2007, Refuge Staff has been working with Michigan DNR and United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)-Wildlife Services to help in their efforts to control the double-crested cormorant population in Lake Michigan. Control efforts have been conducted in a manner to eliminate or reduce disturbance to co-nesting colonial birds on Refuge islands. Each year since 2007, USDA-Wildlife Services has been issued a Refuge Special Use Permit to conduct cormorant control, including egg oiling and removal of adult birds from the Refuge islands. Access to Hat Island has been restricted due to the presence of one of the largest colonies of Caspian terns in the northern Great Lakes. In 2005, researchers from Central Michigan University (CMU )initiated a study to monitor and conduct population counts of the nesting colonial birds on Refuge islands. This study, authorized bya Refuge Special Use Permit, included population counts and collection of diet data on cormorants. Information was also collected on numbers and species of other colonial nesting birds on the islands. Other species included Herring Gulls, Caspian Terns, Ring-billed Gulls and Great Blue Herons. Last year, the Refuge granted USDA-Wildlife Services access to Hat Island to perform lethal control methods on cormorants. Personnel from USDA-Wildlife Services conducted their activities in a manner as described above –to eliminate or reduce impacts on other colonial nesters.

Although all colonial nesting species on Hat Island successfully fledged chicks in 2010, numbers were less than expected. Biologists from the Refuge, USDA and CMU are working together to determine why nesting efforts were not as successful as previous years. In response to the reduced hatch of gulls and terns, refuge managers are going to adopt a conservative approach regarding activities on Hat Island in 2011. To that end, access to Hat Island will be restricted to CMU researchers in order to monitor and conduct population surveys. Access to Gull, Shoe and Pismire Islands will not change. The Michigan Islands NWR is not open to the public except for maritime emergencies. Shoe and Pismire Islands are designated wilderness areas.

As an active participant in the effort to control cormorant numbers, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will consider options for assisting USDA-Wildlife Services on and around the Refuge Islands. Future decisions regarding access and population control will be based on a review of information gathered this year. For more information regarding the Refuge and cormorants contact Refuge Manager Mark Vaniman at 906-586-9851 x11 or email Seney@fws.gov .

The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals and commitment to public service. For more information our work and the people who make it happen, visit http://www.fws.gov .

Cormorant Management Program Volunteers Sought

Monday, April 11, 2011, at 5:30 p.m.

The Beaver Island Wildlife Club in conjunction with the US Department of Agriculture-Wildlife Services will be conducting a training session for the spring Cormorant Management Program at the Community Center at 5:30 Monday April 11th.

Font Lake Islands to Be Named

April 7, 2011 

Mr. Larry Pedersen 
Planning & Operations Supervisor for Forest Management Division 

pedersenl@michigan.gov

Dear Mr. Pedersen, 
As you may know, the U. S. Board on Geographic Names is responsible by law for adjudicating decisions regarding geographic names for use by the departments and agencies of the Federal government. The Board has received a proposal to make official the name Brothers Little Islands for a group of floating islands in Font Lake on Beaver Island in Charlevoix County , Michigan . Because local acceptance of any name is very important to the Board, we would like your opinion regarding this proposal. We also ask that you share this request with the appropriate offices or members within your county. 

For more detailed information regarding this name issue, including a link to an online map showing the location of the islands, please click on Review List 405 at the Board's website at: 

http://geonames.usgs.gov/ domestic/quarterly_list.htm

In order for the Board to vote on this issue in a timely manner, we would appreciate hearing from your office by May 6, 2011. Please note that if no response is received, the Board will consider your opinion to be “neutral” and will make a decision that might affect the use of names in your area of interest. If you have any questions or need additional time to conduct your research, please do not hesitate to contact us. If your office is not the correct one to contact on this issue, we would appreciate it if you would let us know, and if possible, forward this to the appropriate office. 

Thank you in advance for your assistance in this matter and we look forward to hearing from you. 

Sincerely, 

J. A. Messenger 
Geographic Names Researcher 
(573) 308-3690
jmessenger@usgs.gov

For Lou Yost, Executive Secretary 
U.S. Board on Geographic Names 
12201 Sunrise Valley Drive, MS 523 
Reston, VA 20192-0523 
(703) 648-4552
(703) 648-4549 fax

Library News April 2011

The ferry has started and spring is officially here on the island. In that mode, the Beaver Island District Library is gearing up in anticipation of a busy summer. We've been weeding through the book shelves, sorting through all the magazine subscriptions and winnowing out old VHS videos (please keep in mind that we are not accepting any more VHS tapes). Our continuous book sale table is sway-backed from the weight so please stop in and fill up a bag for only $2 or purchase a new book for $3/or 2 for $5 from the book truck. This past year the Book Sale garnered the library a grand total of $1400!! The best it's ever done.

We have bids posted for cement work. We're planning on replacing all of the front sidewalk and putting the bike rack on concrete instead of dirt which will certainly help keep our carpets a bit cleaner. Jim Wojan will be removing one of the huge pines in the Memorial Garden which was damaged last fall in the big storm, before it comes down on its own causing even more damage. We're hoping to replace the old benches in the garden area that were made by Tom Morland at least twenty years ago.

Have you checked out our bulletin board in the entry way? All upcoming meeting schedules are posted there as well as important announcements from various island organizations. While we do not allow personal signs, if you belong to a local organization and want to publicize an upcoming event, please feel free to post it here. Signs should be no larger than 8 ½ by 11 and no more than one per event. Again, no personal signage is allowed and will be removed should it appear on our bulletin board.

Gas Price Hike Shock

Imagine the surprise at arriving today, April 7, 2011, at the station to fill up the car to find that the cost of gasoline in the last few days has risen $.50 per gallon. Yes, that's right fifty cents per gallon, and the fuel barge hasn't left the Island yet for this boating and fuel hauling season. The imagination tell us that this is only the beginning of the increase in cost of gasoline for the Island in the near future. Most were expecting the price to increase after the first fuel barge trip, but there's no waiting. Five dollar per gallon fuel cost on Beaver Island is just around the corner. Time to get out the bicycle and get in shape while saving fuel.

4th Annual  Easter Egg Scramble and visits with The Easter Bunny
Saturday April 16th at 1:00 pm Beaver Island Community School Gym

Please bring your Easter baskets and don't forget your cameras!

Proud Sponsors:
AMVETS Post 46 Ladies Auxiliary An Occasion To Remember Beaver Island Boat Company bibabes+2 Martin Gas & Oil The Shamrock Bar and Restaurant McDonough's Market

Kentucky Derby Hat Decorating Day!

All you ladies who have always wanted a fancy hat for Derby Day,

Please join in the fun...

Tuesday May 3rd at 1:00 pm

at The Shamrock

There is a $20.00 donation to cover the cost of your hat, flowers and feathers.

(Additional flowers and feathers will be available for an additional cost).

$5.00 from each donation will go to benefit BICAF

(Beaver Island Community Activities Fund)

This activity is being held to raise funds

for the children's events.

Please bring your own hot glue gun and glue sticks,  if possible.

There is a sign up sheet at The Shamrock.

Please sign up by Tuesday April 26th

and don't forget to wear your hat to The Shamrock

on Derby Day, Saturday May 7 th,

for a chance to win a prize!!

Any questions, please call Tina Walker 448-2020

First Boat of the Season Returns to the Island

With the shelves of the grocery store getting a little light on some items, the first boat of the year is always a welcome sight. The shelves will begin to be restocked with some items that have been missing for a short while now. The stock of the Purina Dog Food will be replenished along with several others. The Charlevoix dock of the Beaver Island Boat Company will probably be empty for the first and last time this season with this first boat run.

The Emerald Isle on its return to the Island on April 6, 2011.

Coming in the harbor...

Coming in and turning to back into its place...

There are some good size chunks of ice that are in the way....

Tie-ing up and starting to unload..

Meeting the boat and getting off the boat.......Yes, dear, that's the last one!

Unloading the freight...It's great to have the boat running again!

Video of the Emerald Isle's Return trip into Paradise Bay

 

First Boat of the Season

The Emerald Isle left its Beaver Island dock headed for Charlevoix this morning, leaving the dock at exactly 8:20 a.m. as stated on the schedule. Its leaving was greeted by many at Whiskey Point. One saying, "It's great to see the season get underwy. I'll be here when it comes back too." That's the feeling of those who are still on the Island after some have gone on vacation due to Spring Break at the Beaver Island Community School. There was only one place to have coffee this morning. The Station was the only place to have coffee because Dahlwhinnie's and the Shamrock are closed for spring break.

Video First Boat Leaving of the Season

 

 

Emerald Isle on the schedule again! Leaving the Island headed for Charlevoix!

Video of the First Boat taken from the Emerald Isle

 

Frank Solle's Eagle Picture

According to Frank, he was taking some pictures of the ferry boat out there at Whiskey Point, and this eagle just flew right over him. This is a young eagle.

Eagles on the Ice

A phone call from Cindy Cushman interrupted dinner, but it was well worth the interruption. "If you walk down my driveway with your camera, you can get a picture of the eagles on the ice," Cindy said. She was exactly right. In the waning daylight, this photographer tried to sneak up on the eagles by walking quietly and moving slowly on the Left's porch, trying to get as close to the eagles as possible. Several pictures were snapped from this location. Then a sneaky snake walk alongside the old Gillespie garage, Cindy and Dusty's home now, and a few more pictures were taken.

Here is the scene from the public playground.

From Left's deck and porch...

From alongside the Cushman-Gillespie fill dock, slightly closer.

There seems to be a population explosion of eagles on the island, but this is more likely just these raptors being more visible in the town area. Whatever the reason, they are fascinating to many.

PUBLIC MEETING REGARDING NATURAL RESOURCES

The Public is invited to an open meeting to be held at Peaine Township Hall on Thursday, April 14, at 7 pm. regarding the future of the former township commission, Beaver Island 's Natural Resources/Ecotourism Commission (NREC). 

The meeting is a result of a motion approved by the Peaine Township Board to hold their discussion of reconsideration of the dissolution of the commission for a 90 day period during which the NREC would meet with parties who promoted the disbanding of the NREC and the public to provide an opportunity to discuss their concerns and ideas about the NREC's plans and structure. At the Peaine Township meeting, residents spoke in favor of reinstatement and in opposition.

The purpose is of the meeting is to discuss the future and to determine from public input and discussion if a consensus can be reached on how to move forward.

Note: For those who want more information on the NREC prior to the meeting:

The NREC's plan for the management of natural resources is a draft which is not in final form and which was still being discussed by the commission. It would have been presented to the public at public hearings and to the township plan commissions and township boards for approval. A copy of the most current draft is on the Peaine Township website and copies are available at the library. A copy of the resolution establishing the NREC is also on the website.

Peaine Website--NREC Page HERE

Forest View Apartments Construction

UPDATE: The majority of the inside walls of the Forest View Apartment Building has been prepped for the first coat of primer. The drywall work seems to be completed. There isn't much to see at this stage of the construction project on the inside. The outside is in process of being sided. Here are a few pictures and examples:

The entrance..............the north side has siding

The inside drywall work completed.......

Video Walk-through of Senior Housing and Glimpse of Siding

 

Floor Plans of the Forest View Apartments

Floor plan of the entire building (large view)

Floor plan of just the common areas (large view)

Floor plan of one bedroom apartment

 

Dave Broder's Memorial Service on C-Span 3

The Dave Broder memorial service will take place at noon 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 5, 2011. It can be viewed on C-Span 3, Webcast on C-Span, and on the Washington Post website.

If you didn't see the memorial service and would like to view it, it is available HERE

Beaver Island Wildlife Club Has Facebook Page

See it HERE

The Beaver Island Community Development Corporation

"The Beaver Island Community Development Corporation is an organization dedicated to promoting and preserving the quality of life for seniors and disabled adults residing on Beaver Island by providing and maintaining adequate, high-quality, cost-effective housing."

This grouip is the one that is responsible for the building the Forest View Apartments across the road from Stoney Acres and next to the Beaver Island Rural Health Center. They have a very nice website that is up on the Internet that provides a great deal of information. You can view that website at this link HERE

Here is just a little taken from their website:

"Come join us April 17, 2011 from 1:00 - 3:00. The building will not be complete, but you can take a tour. We are too excited about these senior apartments to wait until they are all done to show them off!"

Forest View Community - Grand Opening Celebration

The Grand Opening Celebration is scheduled for July 11, 2011 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
The building will be complete and the apartments will be occupied.

Please try to attend one or both of these events to help us celebrate!

Beaver Island Community Development Corporation
Affordable Housing for Seniors
PO Box 190
Beaver Island, MI 49782

Just One Star 

Can Comfort a Soldier   

Talking Threads Quilt Guild invites you to join in honoring soldiers who have been injured in the line of duty while serving in Iraq or Afghanistan.

All sewers of all levels are asked to join the effort to assemble Just One Star blocks. Judi will provide step-by-step instructions. Work will be done individually or as group efforts in assembly lines. Our star blocks will be sent to the Just One Star project to be assembled into quilts for the wounded Marines. soldiers, airmen, and sailors.

All interested Islanders are invited to this event. Sewing machines, neutral thread, fabric, and cutting tools will be needed, but not required. You may come” just to help”.

Some fabric will be provided by Talking Threads Guild, but we encourage you to bring medium reds, blues, and cream background 100% cottons if you have some.

Sunday, April 17, 2011 from 1:30 -4:30

Hearts to Holly Quilt Shop in Charlevoix is organizing this project locally. If you have questions please call Judi at 2963 or Donna at 2797.

Dermatologist to Come to BIRHC

The services that are offered to the island residents continue to amaze some of the long time island residents. BIRHC has a physical therapist and a chiropractor who come regularly to the island, and sometimes, on the same day. In addition to our two local providers, Sue Solle, a nurse practitioner, and Chris VanLooy, a physician's assistant, Doctors Neucomb and Mann come to the island on a regular basis. Beaver Island has its own resident dentist, Dr. Wendy White, who has been serving the island for years.

On April 15, 2011, Dr. Cotter, a dermatologist will be seeing patients at the BIRHC. You can set up an appointment by calling 877-901-2230, which is his office number on the mainland.

Official Program of Michigan Archival Association

for June 14 and 15, 2011, Conference HERE

BICS School News

May 3, 2011 Annual School Election

Beaver Island voters will once again be asked to RENEW the school's operational millage. The requested millage renewal amount is 15.7908 on non-homestead property. It is the same operational millage amount that has been levied for more than 18 years. All of this money stays in the district to run our K-12 program. If you own just your primary residence (homestead property) or qualified agricultural property, you do not pay this tax. Proceeds from this millage account for approximately 75% of the school's general fund revenue.

The following people have been nominated to fill vacancies on the Beaver Island Board of Education: Jessica Anderson and Brian Cole, both current board members are running unopposed for two four-year school board terms. Also on the ballot will be the election of Charlevoix-Emmet Intermediate School District board members. The following people have been nominated to fill open seats on that board of education: Beverly Osetck, Jane Roberts and Selma Chellis.

A more complete informational flyer will be mailed to all P.O. box holders in late April. Voting for the school election is held at the St. James Township Hall.

Peaine Township Meeting Video 030911

March 15, 2001 Version of the CAMP from NREC

This was the version of the plan that was to be sent to members on March 15, 2011. This version is different from Version 10 which may be found below, a couple stories are in between this version and the other to help keep them separate. There is no BINN position on either versions of the plan. BINN does support the idea of getting various stakeholders together as suggested at the Peaine Township Meeting of 3/9/11. BINN is willing to provide information in any positive form about this subject on this website.

Newest Version of the CAMP

An idea about how to maximize our benefit from our ownership of

Whiskey Island

After listening to several people and considering their diverse opinions, an idea occurred to me about how we might obtain a satisfactory and beneficial resolution to our recent purchase of Whiskey Island. St. James Township was very fortunate to obtain such a beautiful, pristine asset in the Beaver Archipelago. This island, the middle of three small private islands lying northwest of Beaver, consists of two lots, one of 43 acres and the other of 53. Many people have supported the possibility of trading Whiskey Island to the State for the property on Paradise Bay in St. James, which was intended to house Beaver Island`s DNR employee, but for the past 25 years has been home to our Deputy Sheriff. The lot starts at the water and extends across the road and back into the woods. It contains a building, which the two townships have contributed equal funds to maintain and improve.

Other people have suggested that this proposed trade would short-change Beaver Island because Whiskey Island has to be worth much more than a single lot.

My idea is that we band together and work hard and smartly to obtain some additional considerations for this trade. First and foremost is that we make it a joint effort between St. James Township and Peaine Township. Showing Island-wide support is necessary for this to be accomplished. Some other conditions would facilitate this plan:

l) We need to get Bud Martin and his supporters on board.
2) St. James and Peaine should be the co-owners of the new acquisition, with Peaine reimbursing St. James for half of its expenses to date.
3) The two Island Townships should collaborate on the development of this acquisition to enhance the likelihood of receiving grants.

Improvements to the harbor property could include:
a) The creation of a public launch ramp and fishing pier on the waterfront;
b) The installation of off-street parking for boaters and fishermen, far enough behind the home to not constitute a nuisance;
c) The building of a picnic area and restrooms on the property, which could be called “Larsen Park,” after Sybil and Big Art Larsen; and
d) The continuing joint-Township maintenance and improvement of the home used as the Deputy's quarters.

I believe the DNR lot and these improvements could be obtained in trade from the State, and that this could be done in exchange for one of the two Whiskey Island lots. Creating this facility in St. James would relieve our current congestion and allow us to offer greater boating and fishing opportunities, enhancing our appeal to tourists from all over the Midwest. My hope is that we can simultaneously trade the second Whiskey Island lot for a line item ten-year bequest from the State's Commtmity Health Budget of $50,000/year for each of the Rural Health Centers in the island consortium of Drummond, Mackinac, and Beaver. We can accomplish great things, but only if we overcome our differences and work together. This plan could be a turning point, and lead to several comparable future benefits.

~ Bill McDonough, 3-10-201 l

Proposed Conceptual Drawing

Many Thanks to Jeff Cashman for this wonderful conceptual drawing!

Draft 10: Beaver Island Adaptive Management Plan

The following link takes you to the converted document in web format of the NRETC's Beaver Island Adaptive Management Plan. This document is the document referred to at the Peaine Township Meeting of March 9, 2011. This document will be one of the items that should be discussed by the interested parties in attempting meet common ground. Only ten copies were distributed by Ed Wojan at this meeting, but the entire document is available at this link.

Draft 10 Adaptive Managenent Plan

A Model Ordinance (from the Huron Valley Watershed Council Website)

To help local governments to enact their own ordinances to supplement the State program, the Huron River Watershed Council (HRWC), with funding from the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, has developed a model wetlands ordinance that is consistent with the State law. The ordinance will provide local governments with a legally sound tool to protect their wetlands and property owners with consistent, predictable treatment throughout the State.
» Protecting Your Community's Wetlands , HRWC's wetland ordinance brochure dated September 2006
» Frequently Asked Questions About Wetlands Ordinances , factsheet dated September 2006
» MDEQ Model Wetlands Ordinance , dated March 2003
» Notes Regarding the MDEQ Model Wetlands Ordinance , prepared April 2006
» Legal Cases Related to Wetlands in Michigan , dated March 2002
» Natural Features Setback Ordinance , passed August 1998. HRWC highly recommends that communities enact a natural features setback ordinance along with a wetland ordinance.

from http://www.hrwc.org/the-watershed/watershed-protection/wetland-protection/

BI Christian Church Resident and Visiting Ministers

April

17: Harold Kruse

24 (Easter): Harold Kruse

Easter Brunch Scheduled

Sunday April 24 Easter Brunch NOON at the Gregg Fellowship Center. Pancakes, Ham, Scrambled Eggs, French Toast Casserole and Strata along with OJ and Coffee.  Community is invited to attend.  Anyone wanting to bring a dish to pass are welcome  do so.

32 Miles of Water

(Copyright 2004, Phillip Michael Moore)

Update: 2/19/11---This video has had 108 viewings in the months of January and February so far. We hope that the views are getting the importance of having an air ambulance on Beaver Island and ready to go for the emergencies that have occurred here. It is obvious that ill and injured people are searching out other methods of transport since the transports for 2010 were down 50% compared to the last four years. While part of the cause is the depressed economy, the other part is the concern of being transported to the mainland and having a huge bill for that transport. BINN will continue to have this video available until something gets resolved with this issue. Comments so far: "You must be very proud of your son for doing this excellent video." "We never realized that this was still an issue." "Wow, a very important issue that seems to have been put on the back burner for too long. It's a burning issue."

Beaver Island has two flight services, and neither of them are currently certified or licensed to transport emergency patients from Beaver Island to the mainland. We thank the crews of the USCG helicopters for coming to do medical evacuations. We thank the flight services that have helped us get patients to the mainland for the last seven years and before. We thank Northflight for providing this service as well.

While a lot of things have changed over the last 7 years including a new school, a new executive director of EMS, new township supervisors,and new rural health center board members, there is one thing that has not changed.

Beaver Island does not have an FAA Certified Air Ambulance that is licensed by the State of Michigan.

When Phillip Michael Moore made this video as a Master's degree project, no one would have guessed that seven years later Beaver Island would still not have achieved this goal.

Please take the time to view the video. Please take some time to think about this, and then start asking some questions about how this can be resolved.

Beaver Island News on the 'Net Presents "32 Miles of Water" in its final form (28.5 minutes). The previously video, viewed here, was a slightly shortened version. The video is in high quality, but is still streaming video.

 

1st Annual "Gail's Walk"

The first annual "Gail's Walk" will take place on Sunday, May 29, 2011, at 3:00 p.m. In honor of Gail Weede, each year we will have a Memorial Weekend Walk to raise money that will help Island families who experience unexpected or long term medical treatment.  This fund would help with bills or expenses related to the condition. A minimum donation of $10 per person is asked for this 5k untimed event.  Children 5 and under are no charge.  There will be commemorative long sleeve t-shirts available for $10 each (please pre-order your shirts).  Be sure to include quantity and sizes.

To pre-register for the walk and/or t-shirt, please make your check out to BIRHC (Beaver Island Rural Health Center) memo: Gail's Walk, and mail to Beth Croswhite, P.O.Box 143 Beaver Island, MI 49782.
If you are unable to join us, but would still like to donate to this worthy cause, any donation would be welcomed and appreciated. This walk would begin and end at the Public Beach Parking lot.
Any questions call Dawn Marsh  at 231-448-2910.

On the Beach of Beaver Island

You will need Quicktime or another music player to enjoy this link.

The music played in the Holy Cross Hall in the late 70's and early 80's, recorded for posterity and shared here.

BICS Calendar for 2010-11 Approved

Beaver Island Transfer Station Information

Expired Subscriptions

Please send us your email address.

There are quite a few subscriptions that will expire in April and some that have already expired. We appreciate your support and ask you to renew your subscription as soon as possible. Emails have been sent out, but quite a few have been returned without delivery, which means that BINN does not have your current email address.

You can subscribe online by using PayPal and a credit card. Please click the link below if you wish to renew online:

RENEW

Meeting Minutes

The minutes of all public meetings will be posted

as soon as they are received.

News on the 'Net welcomes minutes to all public meetings. All organizations are welcome to submit meeting minutes for publication on this website. Please email them to medic5740@gmail.com.

Airport Committee Minutes

Beaver Island Cultural Arts Association Minutes

Peaine Township Board Minutes

BIRHC Board Meeting Minutes

St. James Township Meeting Minutes

Beaver Island Community School Board Meeting Minutes

Beaver Island Ecotourism Goals Draft, rev. 3, 19 Jan 2010

Beaver Island Natural Resources and Eco-Tourism Commission Minutes

Joint Human Resources Commission Minutes

Waste Management Committee Minutes

Beaver Island Airport Commission Minutes New for 2011!