B. I. News on the 'Net, January 20-26, 2014
Another Winter Snow Day
Yesterday's white out
Going out a window was not a choice, the door was the only choice
Trellis, 4 feet tall, just visible yesterday.......completely covered today
What a difference a day makes! More snow, but sunshine now
Beaver Island's winter continues to amaze those that weren't here for the blizzard of '78. The snow just keeps coming down. The wind just keeps blowing the snow around. One somewhat short, but perfectly sized older woman went out to stomp out a walkway for the dogs here at Moore's Wildlife Bistro, and she disappeared under the snow when she tripped in the back yard. The dogs are just going to have to wait until the driveway gets plowed.
Beaver Island Community School is closed due to snow and cold and wind. The windchill out there this morning is -24 at 8:30 a.m. on Monday, January 27, 2014. If you don't need to be outside, don't go. Frostbite and frostnip are very easy to get when it's this cold outside. If you do go out, make sure you have your skin covered.
Those doing the snow plowing and the snow blowing need to be careful that they don't get any cold related injuries as well.
Perhaps the planes will fly today, so those stranded can get where they want to go. Some want to come home to the Island, and others want to get off the island.
Eugenia "Genie" Anne Vreeland, 90, Obituary
Eugenia "Genie" Anne Vreeland, 90, of Beaver Island, passed away Sunday, December 29, 2013, in Charlevoix.
She was born May 16, 1923, in Grand Rapids, the daughter of Andrew and Anna (Geldersma) Setsma, and graduated from Ottawa Hills High School in 1941. She attended Western Michigan University, and later taught high school.
She retired from the Kindel Furniture Company in Grand Rapids, where she wrote ad copy.
On February 14, 1952, she married Harold W. "Bucky" Vreeland in Caledonia. Bucky and Genie moved permanently to Beaver Island in 1980, where they had been part-time residents since 1956. For 16 years, they had spent half of each year in Feakle, Ireland. They were members of Holy Cross Church on Beaver Island.
Bucky preceded Genie in death on Deember. 21, 2005. She was also preceded in death by her sister, Ruth J. Korhorn.
The funeral service will take place in the spring at Holy Cross Church on Beaver Island. Burial will be in Holy Cross Cemetery.
Contributions may be made to Holy Cross Catholic Church, the Beaver Island Game Club, or to the charity of choice.
The Winchester Funeral Home in Charlevoix is handling the arrangements.
Mary Beth Kur Running for Circuit Judge
http://www.mbkforjudge.com/
Shoveling Out
This morning, Saturday, January 25, 2014, the snow removal at BINN began at 9 a.m. Shovel, broom, and electric snow blower in had, out the door we go. The driveway is cleared including the three foot county plow piles at both ends of the driveway. Inside we go to thaw out, drink something warm, and relax for a minute.
What the heck is that? Come on now, the joke is not a joke anymore. It's noon and the snow is beginning again, and it's almost as thick as it was yesterday. Luckily, so far, the wind is not blowing as hard as it was yesterday.
The loaders have been out since early morning, and the road is somewhat cleared all the way down the East Side Road to Iron Ore Bay. Another loader is working out in the Donegal Bay area. Two county trucks are out plowing along with others. This makes three days in a row with the snow coming down with no end in sight. The drifts are higher than yesterday out by the township airport. Not sure if the West Side Road is clear or not. This will be a winter to remember! Some are calling it Snowmagedon. Stay home, stay safe, stay warm!
Area Media Provide Tips for Emerging Leaders
TV 7&4 reporter and anchor Marc Schollett was one of five media representatives presenting at the Leadership Charlevoix County session on January 16, 2014, titled “Building Your Toolbox.” The day involved participants being exposed to Northern Community Mediation resolution issues, meeting protocols, social media trends, and also traditional media. Besides Schollett, shown coaching Leadership Charlevoix County participant Cynthia Lamberson of First Merit Bank on TV interview tips, media representatives included Babette Stenuis Stolz with the Petoskey News-Review, Sheri McWhirter-O’Donnell with the Charlevoix Courier, and pictured standing in above photo Amy Robinson with CMU Public Radio, and Trish MacDonald-Garber with MacDonald-Garber Broadcasting. Looking on are Leadership Charlevoix County participants (seated from left) JP Gerster from Pat O’Brien & Associates and Ben Hicks from Char-Em ISD.
Patrick McGinnity from Beaver Island is a member of the leadership class this year. Leadership Charlevoix County is a nine-month program that exposes emerging leaders to various aspects of the county ranging from government to human services agencies, and from environmental issues to philanthropy. In addition, participants are teamed with a community mentor and the class takes on a community service project. Leadership Charlevoix County is sponsored by the Boyne City, Charlevoix and East Jordan Area Chambers of Commerce with support from the Beaver Island Chamber. The program is made possible by a generous grant from the Charlevoix County Community Foundation. For more information about becoming involved, visit www.leadershipcharlevoixcounty.com.
Another Nasty Storm Hits the Island
When it's not a complete white-out and you can't see anything, it's still really bad out there. You can't see the snow drifts. You can't see another car moving slowly or stopped in the road in front of you. The very best thing that you can do is to stay home, stay inside, and stay warm. BICS closed this morning, Friday, January 24, 2014, along with the Island Treasures Resale Shop, the Beaver Island Community Center, and most other operations. There really is a very important reason.
It is dangerous out there!
This is a picture when there is no white-out.
Charlevoix County Sheriff's Deputy Travis Williams States:
11:30 am: I was just advised that due to the high wind and snow conditions, the Charlevoix County Road Commission is forced to hold off on plowing the roads. There have been multiple reports of cars in the ditch and roads that are impassible. I am asking that all BI residents stay off the roads until the storm passes. The winds are supposed to increase even higher throughout the day. Without the use of the road commission trucks, the Charlevoix County Deputy (Me) will also not be able to respond until the road commission continues.
Once again, please be smart and NOT DRIVE unless an emergency. Thanks,
Deputy Travis Williams
12:00 noon This winter storm is very much like the one that hit in January 1978. Phillip Michael Moore was three years old. Sandy and Perry Fortier were renting the front trailer and Joe and Phyllis Moore were in the back trailer on the property between the cedar hedge and Stoney Acre Grill (it was just a barn back then). Perry and Joe had to pull sleds into town to pick up diapers and milk for the little kids in diapers at the trailers. The winter before, in 1977, the Beaver Lodge had been kept open for most of the winter.
This story is true. There was so much snow in these two winters that the dog chased the cat up onto the Beaver Lodge bar roof in the winter of 1977.
There hasn't been a winter similar to the winters of 1977 and 1978 since then. Those somewhat new island residents might be getting frustrated since they have not experienced a winter like this one before. Those that have been here for more than 35 years know that there is nothing you can do but sit back and enjoy the time off from school, find a good book, and stay warm inside your house.
Winter Harbor Pictures
Harbor panorama pics
Ice mountains along the east side
Snow sculptures
More ice mountains in the distance
More sculted snow, windy shallow shapes at Whiskey Point
The location and the snow
Whiskey Point Light
Bud Martin's Shamrock tug looks like its sunk in the snow covered harbor
Harborview II in the winter with snow waves
Snow encrusted trees and branches--beautiful winter scenes!
Birding Trail Group Receives Grant
Tonight Only!!
Chili Cook-Off Scheduled
January 23, 2014 at the Shamrock
And the winners from this evening's cook-off involving a total of twenty different soups and chilis were:
1st Place-----Dawn Marsh - Ham & Potato Chowder
2nd Place-----Julie Martin - Cheeseburger Soup
CHILI:
1st Place-----Jerry LaFreniere - Spicy Chili
2nd Place-----Jewell Gillespie-Cushman - Sweet-n-Spicy Venison Chili
The judges at work tasting the different soups and chilis
John Works at the door.......Students greeting the customers
One of the winners
Some of the attendees to the cook-off
Shamrock workers
Sue Avery read off the winners...2nd place chili, Jewell....3rd place chili. Carolyn Works
First place Chili, Gerald LaFreniere
Chili and Soup winners
Video of the Chili Cook-off
Is Lake Michigan Frozen?
This video gives you the answer to that question. It appears to be frozen from Beaver Island to Charlevoix. That does not mean that the ice is safe for walking or snowmobiling between the two locations.
Many thanks to Anne Willis for sharing her video.
BICS HOSA Students Take BLS for Healthcare Providers
Kathy Ehinger, Beaver Island Community School's Health Occupations teacher, (BICS and HOSA), arranged for the 9th and 10th grade students of BICS to take a Healthcare Provider level program in Basic Life Support (BLS). This program is the same program taught to EMTs, paramedics, nurses, doctors, and other healthcare providers. There were four instructors present: Kathie Ehinger representing the BICS, Joe Moore, Gerald LaFreniere, and Jim Stambaugh representing Beaver Island Emergency Medical Services (BIEMS).
This program took place on Saturday, January 18, 2014, from 2-5 pm, and Sunday, January 19, 2014, from 1-5 pm. Fourteen students and two adults joined four instructors for this program. Joe, Jim, and Gerald are American Heart Association certified instructors through the Training Center in Harbor Springs.
Thanks to Jim Stambaugh for taking the following pictures!
Adult and child CPR
Infant CPR begins
Two adults and Joe Moore..................Infant choking and CPR finishes
Joe Moore, lead instsructor, said, "This was a wonderful group of interested students. I am happy to say that every single student will be recommended to the American Heart Association for certification in the Basic Life Support for Healthcare Providers program. Congratulations to the school, their HOSA instructor, and BIEMS instructors for a wonderfully successful two days of instruction and training."
Real Winter Hits Beaver Island
The last couple of days on Beaver Island are reminiscent of the days from the past winters' stories of the old timers on the island. Beaver Island is having a real winter with school closed a little earlier in the season for cold temperatures below zero. Yesterday, January 22, 2014, the school closed for the first real snowstorm in years. Somewhere between twelve and twenty inches of snow fell and drifted to just below thirty inches, and the county trucks could not keep up with the the snowfall. It took some school kids and their parents an hour to get home in this storm. This morning school is on a two-hour delay for the same reason.
Some of the hold-outs from paying for plowing would have gladly paid almost any amount to have the driveways plowed instead of shoveled or blown by the owner. Most of those spoke of having to blow the snow twice yesterday or taking at least twice as long. One hold out even had issues with the extension cords as the temperatures would not allow the electric cords straighten out. The cords would stay coiled and spring back to that shape as soon as the stretch was gone. In any other season, this would be good, but a spring extension cord hidden in the snow is a disaster waiting to happen. During the time of snowblowing, another four inches of snow came down, and then the wind began to blow drifting additional inches back into the driveway.
Protected backyard
With twenty-nine and a half inches of snow measured in the protected backyard in the morning to only twenty-six in the afternoon, you can tell that the wind was moving the snow around. That three and a half inches of snow from the backyard ended up in the driveway drifting the edges making a flat parabola-shaped driveway. The snow on the deck was chest deep on a tall drink of water and neck deep on a perfectly placed person. Last night was no night to be out moving in a vehicle although a few were ignoring the weather and still looking to see if anyone else was out and around.
The stories about the storms usually began, "You remember the winter of '67 or '69? Boy was that a storm to remember." Years from now, they will be saying, "Do you remember the winter of 2014? That one January day in the middle of the month when it took us hours to get to school only find out that school was closed, and it took just as long to get back home?"
Stay safe in the below-zero windchill cold that has followed this wintery storm!
Diving for Wolves in Ice Water
A view into the past Beaver Island History of February 1967 Sports Illustrated
That may sound mad, but then Beaver Island on Lake Michigan has a mad history, including a brief period of domination by a Mormon 'king.' Today the island is a pleasant summer resort, but when winter comes Arctic winds gnarl trees and the temperature plummets far below zero. It was in such weather that the author visited Beaver to join in a wolf hunt, during which one of the hunters added a new chapter to the island's history
HERE
BIRHC Meeting Dates Set
The board of directors of the BIRHC has set these meetings for 2014:
All are Saturdays at 10 AM in the Community Room at the Center:
March 15; June 21; Sept. 20; annual meeting Dec. 13.
Rambling
by Cindy Rickgers
I’ve just spent a full ten minutes debating about whether this title should be “Rambling” – as in “I have been rambling around in the woods” – or “Ramblings”, like a series of random thoughts.
No kidding!
I got up and circled the chair, to look at it from a distance. I put the “S” on and then took it back off again.
More than once!
I even – briefly – considered replacing the “g” with an apostrophe…as in “I’m a ramblin’ man.”
That’s the way my mind is working these days.
Rambling.
I haven’t been sleeping well.
I was wide awake through much of last night. The little dog had gone outside to pee at three o’clock, and I’d gone to the bathroom to do the same. When I came out, she was already at the door, peering in, anxious to get out of the weather. Back in bed, she quivered and moaned in her sleep, breathing fast, heart pounding. When the other dog does that, I attribute it to dreams of chasing squirrels. I wasn’t so quick to let it go, in this case. Had she been terror-stricken when I wasn’t right there at the door to let her in? What went through her little dog-mind for those few moments alone out there in the dark and snow? Was that to blame for her restless sleep now?
After mulling that over for too long in the early morning hours, I turned my attention elsewhere. My notes for art class were brought out for examination and review. My finances then came to the forefront, were worried over and set aside. A grant I’ll be writing was given its due. Next, a hangnail that’s been bothering me, and achy joints, and the persistent tickle in my throat.
Finally, my thoughts turned to my sister Nita who, truth be told, is the cause for my restless nights.
She was sick in bed over Christmas…got worse when she expected to get better…went finally to the hospital…and no good news came of that.
Last week my sister Brenda and her husband drove from Michigan to Florida and back, to collect Nita and her few belongings so that she can be surrounded by friends and family that love her.
She saw a specialist yesterday…is having more tests and procedures today…and will likely begin a difficult treatment regimen next week. It’s not a good prognosis, in any case.
When I spoke to her, she said, “Yeah, I’m dying,” and gave a bit of a laugh. Dad and our sister, Sheila, fill her dreams, she said. “I’m sorry to put you guys through this again,” she told me.
“Don’t worry about us,” I said, “Take care of yourself!”
In the middle of the night, seems I can do enough worrying for all of us.
Waste Management Committee
The January 2014 meeting of the Waste Management Committe (WMC) met on Tuesday, January 21, 2014. On vacation were Paul and Angela Welke, but there was a quorum of the other members. Several issues related to hazardous materials were discussed, but it was decided that this discussion would be laid to rest. Instead, all of the employees of the Beaver Island Transfer Station (BITS) would be offered the opportunity to do the HazMat training online, which would provide them with a certificate of completion that could be filed in the personnel files and at the BITS. Up to $1000 was set aside for this purpose from the budget by motion and vote. Several other issues were discussed including the possible new organizational document outline provided by Bill Kohls. Jean Wierenga also found some 2010 Bylaws that had been looked at and somewhat approved by the St. James Township lawyer. These and others will be part of the discussion of the new document. Both townships will be asked to help define what decisions can be made by the WMC and which must go to the townships.
The seven member committee was discussed related to the new document, and it was pretty much a consensus that the current method used by the townships seemed to make sense. Two board members from each township would be appointed. Then each township would appoint one additional person that was not a board member. The committee then would recommend to both townships the seventh member of the committee. A possible seventh member was discussed, but no letter of interest had been received, so could not be sent at this time to both townships. If one was received, then it could be sent to the townships.
It was also determined that if the townships were the ones to appoint an individual to the WMC, then it must be the townships that accept a letter of resignation from a member of the committee.
Many thanks to Dawn Marsh for the operation of the video camera for this meeting.
Saturday Morning Basketball Islanders versus Bobcats
Cheerleaders Pictures
This morning the cheerleader squad made certain that they cheered in an area that allowed the pictures to be taken. It was much appreciated. Their cheers inspired the audience and both Lady Islanders and Islanders.
Posing
Cheering
Tumbling
Great job, Ladies!
Saturday morning Lady Islanders' game
Unfortunately, the video camera quit working just as the Lady Islanders moved into the lead, but there are pictures at the above link.
Saturday morning Islanders vs Munising Bobcats
Friday Night Basketball Islanders versus Bobcats
The live streamed video was viewed by 129 unique IP addresses for Friday night's and Saturday morning's games.
On demand Pictures and video here
Taekwondo Demonstration on Friday Night
The Taequondo Club of BICS did a demonstration on Friday night, January 17, 2014, between the games, after the Lady Islanders played and before the Islanders played. There seemed to be quite a wide age range for the participants. The first part of the demonstration involved a defense demonstration.
A knife attack and defensive moves
Jewell and Levi
Protection from a knife attack
Some defense and some offense
Breaking Boards
Jumping kicks to break board
Breaking the board with just one finger
This after school program and club is seeking donations for attending competitions, obviously off-Island. The last trip was to Kalamazoo.
Video of the demonstration
Links |
Announcements
BIRHC Meeting Dates SetThe board of directors of the BIRHC has set these meetings for 2014: March 15
Sept. 20 Annual meeting Dec. 13. |
02/23/14 |
Stoney Acre |
03/23/14 |
Dalwhinnie |
04/27/14 |
Shamrock |
05/18/14 |
Stoney Acre |
06/15/14 |
Dalwhinnie |
07/20/14 |
Shamrock |
08/17/14 |
Stoney Acre |
McDonough's Winter Hours
Moonday-Friday 8-6
Saturday 9-5
Sunday 11-1
Need Asphalt Work Done?
Paving Contractor Contact Information
If you are interested in getting some asphalt work completed on your property, it appears that the contractors for the Kings Highway repaving project are searching for additional work or side jobs. While the asphalt plant is on the island, you could get your driveway paved, a parking lot paved, or other work completed. Here is the information for calling to set up an appointment in the spring for an estimate:
Rieth-Riley Construction Company
Contact: Mark Wagner or Jim Pemberton, 231-439-5757, or 06795 US-31 N, Charlevoix, Michigan 49720
Payne and Dolan, Inc.
Contact: Matt Miller or Gery Hartman, 989-731-0700, or 1029 Gornick Ave., Suite 105, Gaylord, Michigan 49735
B I Christian Church Ministers
January
February
2014 Garden Tour
Save the Date
Planning for next summer's events can sometimes be tricky if you don't have any dates so we are announcing the date of our annual Garden Tour Benefit now. It will be on Wednesday, July 16, 2014. Dana D"Andraia and Jan Paul are putting together a wonderful funfilled day for you and your guests. Our vans and lunch seating gets filled up quickly so please mark you calendars and be ready to buy tickets in advance of that date. We will have more information for you next spring so keep reading the " news" and watch for flyers in June. Have a wonderful winter and we'll see you next summer! Leonor, Connie and the Wellness Gardeners.
Need Heat, Got Food
Holy Cross Mass Schedule for Fall 2013
Sunday morning mass 10:00 am
BINGO News
Gregg Fellowship Center. Doors open at 6:15 pm and games start at 7:00 sharp on first and third Wednesday!
Beaver Island Human Services Commission 2013 Meeting Schedule
Beaver Island Human Services Commission
2014 Schedule of Meetings
3:15 p.m.
Beaver Island Community School
The Commission is a collaboration of organizations that advocates for the emotional and physical needs of island residents and visitors of all ages.
February 18, 2014
April 15, 2014
September 16, 2014
November 18, 2014
***additional meetings may be posted as needed
Members: _rotating_(Char-Em Human Service Coordinating Body), Adam Richards (BIRHC), Alice Belfy(BICS), Judi Meister (Food Pantry), Ann Partridge(COA liaison/Community Center), Lois Williams (Hospice/Helping Hands), Kathy Tidmore(St. James Township Rep.), Pam Grassmick (Peaine Township Rep.), ______ (AmVets)
Message to All B.I. Organizations
BINN is willing to post any and all events on the News on the 'Net website! There is one exception to this rule.
BI News on the 'Net cannot post your event if you don't send the information to BINN!
Subscriptions Expire
You can subscribe online by using PayPal and a credit card. Please click the link below if you wish to renew online:
RENEW
Community Calendar
A completely new feature includes a monthly calendar for each month of the entire year of 2013. Please send me your events and they will be posted so others can schedule their events without conflict. Email your schedule of events to medic5740@gmail.com.
If you or your organization has an event you'd like posted on this Community Calendar, please contact me and I'll add it in. Please try to get me the information as early as possible.
When Santa Missed the Boat to Beaver Island
as read by Phil Gregg
Gathering of Ducks
So far no one has explained the huge collection of ducks out by Whiskey Point in the open water near the harbor entry buoy. Are they feeding on some collection of something? Are they have a huge family reunion?
Here is the complete panoramic picture:
Each of these three panoramic pictures were taken from left to right standing at the point. You have to imagine the pictures being connected from left to right because the real complete panoramic picture doesn't show the individual ducks.
If anyone can shed any light on the reason for the huge collection of ducks, BINN would like to hear from you. Please email the editor at medic5740@gmail.com
From the 2013 Charlevoix County Recycling Guide
There seem to be some confusion about the differences between hazardous materials and recyclables as well as commercial versus household. BINN has done some research related to the differences between these items. A recyclable is a material that can be taken to a recyling center and will be reused in some manner. All of the tires shipped from Beaver Island to the mainland were part of a recycling program instigated by the Charlevoix County Recycling Committee. From the CC recycling guide, here is a list of recyclables:
Newspaper, including magazines, catalogs, hard cover and soft cover books and telephone books
Office paper, envelopes, file folders, junk mail, colored office paper, construction paper, manila envelopes, kraft gift wrap paper
Corrugated cardboard, pizza boxes, boxboard, brown paper bags, cereal boxes, waxed cardboard, fridge and freezer boxboard (wet-strength layer)
All colors of glass food and beverage containers
Plastic films, plastic grocery bags, Styrofoam, shrink wrap, marine shrink wrap, stretch wrap, all plastic bags, cereal box liners
Plastic buckets, plastic toys, plastic furniture, garden plastics
Plastics #1 PET, #2 HDPE, #3 V, #4 LDPE, #5 PP, #6 PS, #7 Other bottles, jugs and jars, and also including all numbers of plastic household containers including wide-mouthed containers such as margarine and yogurt tubs
Tin-plated steel cans, aluminum cans, trays and foil, metal jar lids, small scrap metal and wire hangers
All of the above are listed n the CC Recycling Guide as recyclables.
Saturday “Double Feature” Movies at the Beaver Island Community Center!
1/25 3pm
Chasing Mavericks PG
http://mtv.mtvnimages.com/shared/media/images/acovers/standard/drb000/b022/b02228sc75u.jpg
When young Jay Moriarity discovers that the mythic Mavericks
surf break, one of the biggest waves on Earth, exists just miles
from his Santa Cruz home, he enlists the help of local legend
Frosty Hesson to train him to survive it.
View movie info and trailer:
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1629757/?ref_=nv_sr_1
www.imdb 6.9/10
1/25 7pm
Captain Phillips
http://www.moviegoods.com//Assets/product_images/1020/565048.1020.A.jpg
The true story of Captain Richard Phillips and the 2009 hijacking
by Somali pirates of the US-flagged MV Maersk Alabama, the first
American cargo ship to be hijacked in two hundred years.
View movie info and trailer:
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1535109/?ref_=nv_sr_1
www.imdb 8.1/10
All movie showings free-will donation!
Great popcorn, snacks & treats!
Movie requests and ideas welcomed!*
*Requests subject to licensing by distributors per agreement.
Just call or email and we will check availability ASAP!
231 448-2022
bicommunitycenter@tds.net
Sponsored by:
The Shamrock Bar & Restaurant, the Beaver Island Boat Company
and your Beaver Island Community Center!
Super Bowl on the Big Screen
Charlevoix County Commission on Aging Beaver Island Congregate Sunday Dinners 2013/14
(Subject to changes based on Island events!)
02/23/14 |
Stoney Acre |
03/23/14 |
Dalwhinnie |
04/27/14 |
Shamrock |
05/18/14 |
Stoney Acre |
06/15/14 |
Dalwhinnie |
07/20/14 |
Shamrock |
08/17/14 |
Stoney Acre |
Beaver Island Strings Program to Be Eliminated from School Day
Here are some of the wonderful activities that have been part of BICS over the years:
http://beaverislandnewsarchives.com/Beaver%20Island%20News/SubNews/October%208-14%202007.htm
http://beaverislandnewsarchives.com/Beaver%20Island%20News/SubNews/October%2022-28%202007.htm
http://beaverislandnewsarchives.com/Beaver%20Island%20News/SubNews/May%2026-%20June%201%202008.htm
http://beaverislandnewsarchives.com/Beaver%20Island%20News/SubNews/May%2016-22,%202011.htm
http://beaverislandnewsarchives.com/Beaver%20Island%20News/SubNews/April%2030-May%206,%202012.htm
These are just the first five pages in the Beaver Island News on the 'Net archives. You can view more by going to the page and doing a search for "Strings Program."
http://beaverislandnewsarchives.com/
Please view some of these pages and look for the Strings Program to get some of the wonderful things that this Strings Program has accomplished over the last six or more years.
There has been a lot of misundertanding about this issue. Perhaps, the school should consider sending out a newsletter or something that might provide the rest of the community, other than just the parents, students, and teachers with information. There has been very little information coming out of the school office to provide the retired community members with any information. Since there is nothing from the school, the only things that are available are personal opinions and hearsay.
Panning for Gold
Doug Tilly sponsored a program from 1-5 pm at the Peaine Township Hall that provided information and experience in the process of getting gold dust and small nuggets through a process that eliminates the sand from the pan and allows small flakes of gold to be seen. This event had several attendees and all spoke very highly of it. Thanks to Doug Tilly for providing this learning experience for all.
BINN was not able to attend due to preparations for EMS continuing education coming up for the next few weeks.
Patrick LaFreniere Dies
Patrick “Paddy” “Pa Pa” E. LaFreniere, 79 of Manistee, died Wednesday, January 8, 2014 at his home unexpectedly. He was born on January 18, 1934, on Beaver Island, son of the late Patrick W. and Elizabeth (Floyd) LaFreniere. Patrick married Marcia Platt on February 9, 1989 in Manistee.
He started his sailing career with his father as a wheelsman on his father’s boat in route from Beaver Island to the mainland. Pat started his career on the Great Lakes in 1951 aboard the tug Williams and the Corps of Engineers’ City of Milwaukee, a Grand Trunk Railroad car ferry; in 1952, the steamer SS L.E. Block, 620’ Inland Steel; and in 1953, the motor vessel E.J. Block, 550’ Inland Steel.
In 1955 he served our country in the U.S. Army Air Force as a heavy equipment operator building highways in France up until 1957 when he was discharged and continued his career on the Great Lakes aboard the steamer Wilfred Sykes, 676’ 7000 HP Inland Steel, in 1960, the carferry Ludington, carferry Badger and carferry City of Midland, Ann Arbor carferry City of Milwaukee, Ann Arbor carferry Viking; in 1989 the self-unloader steamer Wilfred Sykes, 676’ Inland Steel; in the 1990s, the motor vessel self-unloader Joe Block, 729 7000 HP, Inland Steel, Adam E. Cornelius, diesel self-unloader, 680’, chartered for Inland Steel and Joe Block, retiring in 2000. In 2001, the carferry Badger and City of Midland; in 2004-2005, three new Staten Island carferry deliveries, in 2006-2010, the carferry Badger; and in 2009, the Coast Guard cutter/buoy tender Acacia, which he wheeled from Chicago to Manistee.
Pat had a deep love for the water. He is survived by his loving wife of almost 25 years, Marcia A. LaFreniere of Manistee, one grandson, Patrick and Missi LaFreniere and their children, Madison and Skylar all of Jenison, Michigan; three daughters and two sons-in-law, Kimberly and Daniel Bolles and their children, Delaney and Alexis all of Muskegon; Kendra Nowak and Trisha Wyman both of Elkhart, Indiana, Kristen and Darin Sytek and their children Caden and Cohen all of Twin Lake, Michigan; his daughter in law, Cindy and Doug Miller of Belding; his adopted daughter, Lynn Herald of Cadillac, one sister, Jean LaFreniere of Ionia; numerous nieces; and nephews also survive him; as well as his special companion “Tigger.” Many special friends also survive him.
Pat was preceded in death by his son, Patrick E. LaFreniere; three sisters, Mary Minor, Margaret Ann Polhemus and Isabelle LaFreniere; and two brothers, Joseph and John (Beaver John) LaFreniere.
Mass from the Order of Christian Funerals will be celebrated Tuesday, January 14, 2014 at 11 a.m. at St. Mary of Mount Carmel Shrine Church in Manistee, with the Rev. John McCracken celebrant. Burial will follow at Mt. Carmel Cemetery also in Manistee. Relatives and friends will pray the Evening Vigil Service at 8 p.m. at the Herbert Funeral Home in Manistee, on Monday, January 13, 2014, where friends may begin calling at the funeral home on Monday after 2 p.m.
The family will be at the funeral home on Monday afternoon from 2 to 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. to receive friends. A memorial has been established in Pat’s name for Manistee Catholic Central Schools and the City of Milwaukee. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
The Herbert Funeral Home of Manistee is in charge of funeral arrangements.
Josh Broder Tells a Story
Josh Broder is invited to tell a story about his experience doing a scene in a classic movie. Josh does a wonderful job!
Winter Beauty
Wind-driven snow stuck on the trees
How many deer do you see? Peek-a-boo!
Here they are, one at a time, crossing the roadway:
The photographer only saw two until they started moving. Can you find five deer in the original picture?
Need Asphalt Work Done?
Paving Contractor Contact Information
If you are interested in getting some asphalt work completed on your property, it appears that the contractors for the Kings Highway repaving project are searching for additional work or side jobs. While the asphalt plant is on the island, you could get your driveway paved, a parking lot paved, or other work completed. Here is the information for calling to set up an appointment in the spring for an estimate:
Rieth-Riley Construction Company
Contact: Mark Wagner or Jim Pemberton, 231-439-5757, or 06795 US-31 N, Charlevoix, Michigan 49720
Payne and Dolan, Inc.
Contact: Matt Miller or Gery Hartman, 989-731-0700, or 1029 Gornick Ave., Suite 105, Gaylord, Michigan 49735
Chili Cook-Off Scheduled
January 23, 2014 at the Shamrock
Emerald Ash Borer Quarantine
Please be advised that Michigan has revised its Emerald Ash Borer internal quarantine effective 1/7/14. No new counties were quarantined by this revision.
For immediate release: January 7, 2014
Media contact: Jennifer Holton, 517-284-5724 or holtonj@michigan.gov
Michigan Revises Emerald Ash Borer Quarantine in the Upper Peninsula Travelers are urged not to move firewood to prevent the artificial spread of emerald ash borer and other invasive forest pests
LANSING: The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) today revised its emerald ash borer (EAB) quarantine to designate all six quarantined counties in the eastern Upper Peninsula (UP), as well as Houghton and Keweenaw counties, as the same quarantine level (Level II)-effective immediately. MDARD, however, is asking travelers and residents to continue to not move firewood to help prevent the artificial spread of other exotic and devastating insects and diseases like Asian longhorned beetle, thousand cankers disease of black walnut, hemlock woolly adelgid, oak wilt and beech bark disease. The ban on moving firewood north across the Mackinac Bridge remains in effect.
Prior to this revision, MDARD’s EAB interior quarantine divided the UP into two quarantine levels: the portions of Alger, Chippewa, Delta, Houghton, Keweenaw, Mackinac and Schoolcraft counties known to contain EAB were Level II. The balance of those seven counties, plus Luce County, were classified as Level III. This revision effectively merges the two quarantine levels and makes all quarantined counties in the UP Level II.
Additionally, the prohibition on moving hardwood firewood, and the other articles regulated by the quarantine from anywhere in Michigan to the Beaver Island Archipelago, Big and Little Charity islands, North and South Manitou islands and Isle Royale is still in place.
The UP counties of Baraga, Dickinson, Gogebic, Iron, Marquette, Menominee, Ontonagon and Marquette remain un-quarantined for EAB.
“MDARD remains committed to protecting the ash resource in the western UP from the artificial spread of EAB and this quarantine amendment simply allows us to focus our attention on that work,” said Gina Alessandri, MDARD’s Pesticide and Plant Pest Management Division Director. “Although travelers and residents are now able to freely move firewood within the eastern UP and within Houghton and Keweenaw counties, we are urging them not to do so as there are several other invasive forest pests that can hitch a ride on it. Please continue to use only local sources of firewood, burn all you buy, and don’t take any unused firewood back home or to the next location.”
EAB is an exotic insect native to Asia that attacks ash trees. In its larval stage, EAB feeds undetected under the bark of ash trees, disrupting water and nutrient flow-ultimately killing the trees in three to four years. First discovered in 2002, EAB is responsible for the death or damage of approximately 50 million ash trees in Michigan and surrounding states.
Individuals or businesses found violating the state’s EAB quarantine are subject to fines ranging from $1,000 to $250,000 and jail time of up to five years.
Additional information about EAB, quarantine details, and a map of the quarantine boundaries are available at www.michigan.gov/eab or www.emeraldashborer.info.
Little Traverse Conservancy Reports 2013 Highlights
HARBOR SPRINGS – Little Traverse Conservancy has released a summary of the organization’s 2013 accomplishments throughout its five-county service area.
In 2013, the non-profit land trust passed a milestone, surpassing 50,000 acres of land protection in its 41 years of existence. This amounts to 78 square miles, which represents about 1.8% of the land in the organization’s service area of roughly 4,400 square miles. The protected lands include more than 130 miles of lake, river, or stream shoreline. More than 1,100 acres of land were protected in 2013 alone.
“The volume of land protection is one way to measure the success of a land trust,” said Executive Director Tom Bailey. “So is the number of members who support it, and the amount of money that is raised each year or for a particular project. Yet protecting land in its natural state and making it available for public use and enjoyment comes with many other intangibles that can’t be statistically measured.”
For example, the Conservancy offers year-round education outings and community field trips. In 2013, more than 3,700 students participated in a Conservancy-led nature outing and 551 people participated in seasonal community field trips led by staff and volunteers. Almost all of these programs are offered at no charge, and funds are available to help with bus transportation costs for classrooms. While the value of these field trips cannot easily be measured in numbers, it has long been the organization’s belief that participation in nature outings inspires an interest in caring for the land in the future.
The Conservancy also reports that 15 miles of new trail were added to their nature preserve trail systems. All told, the organization manages and maintains 90 miles of trails with the help of hundreds of volunteers.
In Charlevoix County, some of the organization’s 2013 land highlights included the following:
- A five-acre addition to the Nick Adams Preserve on Pincherry Road brought the preserve size to 44 acres and added 350 feet of Horton Creek frontage.
- Also along Horton Creek, a 33-acre preserve with 3,200 feet of creek frontage was purchased with donated funds to become the Horton Creek Wetlands Preserve.
- A 1.5 acre addition to the Petritz Preserve on Beaver Island was added thanks to funding from the J.A. Woollam Foundation.
- A small addition was donated to the Six Mile Lake/St. Clair Lake Natural Area along the northern Chain of Lakes. Over many years, this protected region has grown to more than 192 acres and is a joint project of both Little Traverse Conservancy and the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy based in Traverse City.
- Several work days were held at numerous preserves in Charlevoix County with new trails created at the Barney’s Lake Preserve on Beaver Island as well as the Taylor-Horton Creek Preserve, Wisser-Saworski Preserve, and Darnton Family Preserve.
- The Conservancy partnered with Friends of the Boyne River to offer a series of Family Nature Discovery programs at the Boyne River Nature Area and The Hill Nature Preserve.
More than ever, the Conservancy is engaging volunteers to help with their work. In 2013 nearly 550 volunteers assisted the organization with a variety of tasks ranging from office mailings to trail monitors. More than 1,500 volunteer hours were donated to LTC in 2013. Based on the national volunteer value estimation of $22.14/hour, the value of these hours is $33,210.
By the end of 2013, more than 3,200 people had downloaded the Conservancy’s free nature preserve smart phone app. The app provides interactive maps and updated information about LTC’s most user-friendly nature preserves and is an excellent way for residents and visitors to the region to quickly get information about preserves and trails.
Since 1972, the Little Traverse Conservancy has been working as the oldest regional, non-profit land trust in Michigan. With the support of more than 4,100 members, the Little Traverse Conservancy works with private landowners and units of local government to permanently protect ecologically significant and scenic lands from development. Since it was founded, more than 50,000 acres and 130 miles of shoreline along our region’s lakes, rivers, and streams have been set aside to remain in their natural state within Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Emmet, Mackinac, and Chippewa counties. In addition, more than 3,700 young people participate in a Conservancy environmental education outing every year. For more information about the Little Traverse Conservancy and land protection options for your land, please contact their office at 231.347.0991 or visit www.landtrust.org.
HortonCreekWetlands: The 33-acre Horton Creek Wetlands Preserve was established in 2013 in Charlevoix County.
DarntonCMUVolunteers1: Volunteers from Central Michigan University’s Alternative Breaks Program assisted Little Traverse Conservancy with trail work at the Darnton Family Preserve near Boyne City in November, 2013.
FriendsofBoyneProgram: The Conservancy partnered with Friends of the Boyne River to offer a series of Family Nature Discovery programs at the Boyne River Nature Area and The Hill Nature Preserve. This little guys was reacting to looking at pelts and furs of native wildlife.
Township Airport Terminal
Elevations
Floor plan
Grand Rapids Beaver Island Party Announced
2013 Michigan State of the Great Lakes Report Released
For More Information:
Brian Sweeney, 517-284-5047, sweeneyb2@michigan.gov
The Michigan Office of the Great Lakes today announced the release of the 2013 Michigan State of the Great Lakes Report. This statutorily required annual report is prepared each year by the Office of the Great Lakes and highlights state priorities and programmatic accomplishments addressing Great Lakes protection, restoration and economic development.
The report brings together authors from state agencies, academia, non-governmental organizations and the private sector to analyze the top issues affecting Michigan’s Great Lakes and coastal areas. Topics include Great Lakes water levels, aquatic invasive species, restoration work, harbor dredging successes, and economic development and revitalization.
The report is available online at: www.michigan.gov/documents/deq/State_of_the_Great_Lakes_2013_opt_442885_7.pdf
Weekly Fishing Tip:
Weekly Fishing Tip: Mark your calendar for the 2014 Winter Free Fishing Weekend!
Are you looking for an opportunity to take someone fishing this winter, perhaps someone who has never been before? Consider scheduling your outing for February 15 and 16 as part of the 2014 Winter Free Fishing Weekend!
As part of that weekend, all fishing license fees will be waived for those two days. Residents and out-of-state visitors can enjoy fishing on both inland and Great Lakes’ waters for many different species of fish. Please note all fishing regulations will still apply during that time.
For many, the annual Winter Free Fishing Weekend is a tradition – will it become one for you as well?
Numerous activities in communities throughout Michigan will be going on as part of the 2014 Winter Free Fishing Weekend. Maybe you would want to plan one of your own in your community? For more information, or resources to help you participate, please visit www.michigan.gov/freefishing.
BICS Basketball Schedule
Charlevoix County Transit
MAINLAND HOURS OF OPERATION
6:00 a.m.--7:00 p.m. (Monday thru Friday - except Holidays)
9:00 a.m.--4:00 p.m. (Saturday – except Holidays)
BEAVER ISLAND SUMMER HOURS
8:00 a.m.--5:00 p.m. (Monday thru Saturday - except Holidays)
BEAVER ISLAND WINTER HOURS
11:00 a.m.--4:00 p.m. (Monday thru Friday - except Holidays)
(Hours subject to change.)
FARE INFORMATION
Children under 6 years .50
Senior Citizen (60 and over) .50
Handicap: .50
Youth: (ages 6 to19) 1.00
Regular Fare: (ages 20 to 59) 1.50
Note: All passenger fares are double 15 miles and over.
(Fares subject to annual review.)
SCHEDULING
Mainland: (231) 582-6900
Beaver Island: (231) 448-2026
Toll Free (800) 918-3447
ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE & BUS GARAGE LOCATION
Jill Drury, Manager
Charlevoix County Transit
1050 Brockway Street
Boyne City, MI 49712
jdrury@cctransit.org
Since 1980, Charlevoix County Transit has been providing public transportation throughout the County, and Beaver Island a few years later. The transit system operates 20 ADA accessible buses and provides over 117,000 rides annually.
Township Airport Floor Plan and Site Plan
Site Plan
Subscriptions Have Expired in January
Several family and business subscriptions expired in December and others expire in January. . This is a reminder to those that wish to renew online. If you do renew online using a credit or debit card, and the Paypal SUBSCRIBE button, BINN will automatically make a donation of $10 in your name to the Beaver Island Food Pantry. If you are not sure when your subscription expires, please email the editor at medic5740@gmail.com, and your subscription expiration will be included in a return email.
SUBSCRIBE or Renew
Donate to the Live Streaming Project
The Live Streaming Project includes BICS Sports Events, Peaine Township Meetings, Joint Township Meetings, and much more.
Your donation may allow these events to be live streamed on the Internet at http://beaverisland.tv