B. I. News on the 'Net, November 14-20, 2011

Miranda Rooy a National Board Certified Teacher

Ms. Rooy got news of her successful completion of the National Board certifying her today. Waiting until the National Board's website notification system was repaired was quite stressful since this should have been posted on this past Friday, November 18th. Lots of friends told Ms. Rooy to keep positive thoughts in mind. Ms. Rooy was afraid she would have to wait until Monday to get the news. Obviously, the news was early and very positive. Congratulations, Miranda, on your national certification!

Brenna Green Has Her Baby

Ronan Michael Wearn- November 20, 2011, 3:18 AM. 7lbs, 20.5 inches.

Beaver Island Rural Health Center Board Meeting

The longest discussion of an issue at today's BIRHC Board Meeting, November 19,2011, from 10-noon, was the discussion about whether the rural health center and the island's emergency medical service should merge. The discussion covered many topics related to this issue, and many presented obstacles, but others stated the obstacles could be overcome. There was a decision after almost an hour's worth of discussion to create a task force or committee to research the many aspects and to report back to the BIRHC Board for their January meeting.

View video of the first hour of the BIRHC Board Meeting HERE

Intense conversation took place about this merger issue at the BIRHC Board Meeting, November 19, 2011

The BIRHC attorney was present and spoke

Don Spencer and Connie Wojan received Emeritus Director awards from Denny Cook

The awards

Community Thanksgiving Dinner

Beaver Island's Quality Deer Management Program – The First Season

Jeff Powers DVM shows off a nice eight point buck he took this year. Powers, Island Wildlife Club President, has been practicing QDM principals on his Beaver Island land for several years

This fall marks the first deer hunting season on Beaver Island when three on a side antler point restrictions have been in effect. However, most of the Island 's private hunting camps have been practicing basic Quality Deer Management (QDM) principals for several years. The food plots and trigger discipline appear to be having the desired impact.

“There are lots of young bucks around this season.  I have heard from numerous people that they are excited those young bucks they are seeing will be protected with the new antler restrictions. So far I have yet to hear a negative comment about the regulations.  My camp is excited to see what the next few years brings,” said Island land owner and hunter Todd Ireland .

“According to the latest's Michigan statistics each deer hunter spends on average over $1000 per season. We hope to get more of them to visit Beaver Island for a fall hunt in future years as the QDM program and more bucks mature.” said Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Steve West.

Beautiful Sunrise

This sunrise picture was sent by Bob Tidmore. It is a beautiful picture of the sunrise as seen from the Veteran's Memorial. Thank you, Bob!

A New Sign is News?

Well, when a new sign goes up on Beaver Island, particularly if it is a road sign, it usually is news. For many years, people didn't know where the 25 mph speed limit ended and where it began when you were driving out of town. It has been obvious where the 25 mph speed limit began when you were headed into town because there is a warning sign saying "25 mph ahead" and then a "25 mph speed limit" sign to notify you when you were to slow down. Some probably thought that once you passed this speed limit sign going out of town, you were okay to speed up. There is no doubt now when it is legal to speed up now because there is a sign that you see headed out of town toward the Four Corners that states, "25 mph ends."

Here is the sign, so we know when we can speed up.

The sign is across the Kings Highway from the Rasmussen's summer cottage.

Beaver Island Music Festival One Day Only Sale

Beaver Island TV -

Fly Fishing The World With Conway Bowman

Below are the premier air dates of the 30 minute Beaver Island show. The show airs on The Sportsman's Channel . That is 395 on Dish Network.

2011 -   Ep 10	Beaver Island , Michigan : Carp & Smallmouth	Wed	11/30/2011	3:00am	11/14/2011
Fri	12/2/2011	9:00am
Sat	12/3/2011	7:30pm

Human Services Commission Brochure

Thanksgiving Day Worship

10 a.m. at Holy Cross Church

Participating Churches include St. James Episcopal Mission, Beaver Island Christian Church, Lighthouse Fellowship, and Holy Cross Catholic Church.

"We come to Liturgical Worship to give Thanks

For God's abundant

Gifts to us and Share them with others."

All are welcome!

Link to the Beaver Island Airport 10-year Plan

Airport Commission Response

There is always another side to a story

This is part of a series of news releases from the Airport Commission regarding the recent court action on the acquisition of property for the runway protection zone at the Beaver Island Airport . There has been some misinformation about this matter circulating and we'd like to take the time required to get the correct, factual information into the hands of the citizens, but this will take a little time.

I (Mike Scripps, Airport Commission Chair) will commit to working on gathering this information, along with other members of the Airport Commission. Please bear in mind that most of our information has to be verified by the state, feds, attorneys, etc. This by its nature takes some time.

First of all, we want to assure the tax payers of the Island that the liability issue (tax payer money) is being addressed. The following information came from the Michigan Department of Aeronautics: The limit of the cost to the townships is approximately $30,000. The Airport Commission has been designating and setting aside funds for this. We are prepared to pay our share and move ahead.

Please be patient with this project as there is a lot of information to cover, some of it quite complex. As we sort through the matter we will share this information with you.

Respectfully,

Mike Scripps and the BI Airport Commission Members

Update on BI Airport land acquisition – November 16, 2011

Just this afternoon the Michigan Aeronautics Commission formally approved the transfer of funds for the land acquisition at the Beaver Island Airport .

2 ½ percent is the correct co-pay amount, which will be approximately $30,000 (that is $15,000 per township). The Airport Commission has been designating and setting aside funds for this. We are prepared to pay our share and move ahead.

We thank you for your patience as we verify information with the state and federal officials and will continue to bring you more factual information in the near future.

Mike Scripps, Chair - Beaver Island Airport Commission

November 17, 2011 - 3rd in a series of information about the Beaver Island Airport:

How airport improvements are funded  

Relax, it's not Tax dollars (well not 95% anyway)
 
The Airport Improvement Fund (AIP) was established in 1970. It's purpose is, well, to improve airports. The important thing here is that this fund is funded by USERS of airports.  It's funding comes primarily from taxes on aviation fuel, currently 19.4 cents/gallon federal taxes and 3 cents state. Other sources are taxes on passenger tickets, user fees, registration fees, and other similar sources. In 2009, 2.2 billion dollars was spent on passenger airports, just over 800 million at general aviation (GA) airports. The term GA, general aviation, is defined as all aviation, other than scheduled air. Fresh Air and Island Airways fall in this category, as does charter, instruction, air ambulance, private and recreational flying, etc. 
 
The AIP is administered by the FAA, airports division, however, a few states have a strong enough organization that the Feds give them all the money for that state and let them administer it.  These states are designated as "Block Grant" states. Michigan is a Block Grant state. This means we deal primarily with Michigan Department of Aeronautics, or" Aero," or" Lansing ."
 
Between teaching and my flying, I log right around 400 hours a year, burning about 4000 gallons, paying about $896.00/year in fuel taxes to fund the AIP. The 2 companies that fly here pay about 11 or 12 times that amount.  Add to that the other 6 or so planes that fly here regularly gives a very rough amount of $13,800/year paid by planes that regularly use Beaver Island . Note - I'm aware that Island Air doesn't land at township airport, but the passengers contribute to the tax with their fares. Now, not all airports qualify to receive AIP funds, and not all who qualify spend all their entitlements, so we get a lot more than we give. There are other factors at work here also. Island airports are given a high priority because of our winter dependence on air travel, much more than Traverse City, for example.  Another big factor is our location - sort of in the middle of nowhere, so to speak.  This means any over water flights in Northern Michigan could land here in an emergency. 

By the way, this airport is big enough to land any plane that flies. (Taking off would take a little preparation, but could be done) Add up all these factors, and the state determined that we are entitled to $150,000/year in entitlement funds. These funds can be spent on things like runway paving and maintenance, property, terminal buildings and the like, but cannot be spent on hangars, general maintenance , utilities, etc. The share is usually 95% AIP funds, 5% local match. This is by far the best deal out there for improving the infrastructure of any community.  Just look at the recent improvements in lighting, a weather station, snow plowing equipment, and the like to make this a very safe and workable airport, all at minimal cost to the taxpayers and users.    
 
I think we all are aware of the mess that overspending has gotten this country into, but allow me to re-emphasize these are USER dollars, not tax dollars. As user funded dollars, these funds are obligated to be used in the AIP.  No, they can't be used for anything else, that's been tried and failed. 

Mike Scripps, Chair – Beaver Island Airport Commission

November 18, 2011 – 4th in a series of information on the Beaver Island Airport 

What are the benefits of Beaver Island 's public Airport?

Continuing with background information, we need to look at public vs. private airports.  First off, I never thought I'd be explaining the benefits of an airport to an Island community, but here goes. Second, the private airport on B.I. obviously refers to Island Airway's airport, owned by Paul Welke. I have known Paul since he came here, and he is a fine man, a good citizen of the Island, a hard working businessman, and an excellent pilot, as well as mechanic.  I have absolutely nothing negative to say about Paul. The  story goes that when Paul's dad landed on the old grass strip, he complained about how rough it was and was told, in typical Island fashion, "Well, if you don't like it you can build your own."  And in typical Island fashion, he did.

This information is meant to inform, and not necessarily to have to choose one over the other.  Island Airways has done an excellent job of growing their business to keep up with the population, adding buildings and improvements as needed. The only problem arises when a private owner wants to sell and retire, as the cost of capital can add a significant amount to the cost of doing business.

*A publicly owned airport, such as the Beaver Island Airport, stays in the hands of the entity that owns it, be it township, city, county, state, or authority. Succession is easy and inexpensive. The ownership stays with the community.
 *Publicly owned airports are eligible for AIP funds, paid for by people who fly.  The grants of 95% and 97.5% paid for by AIP funds are the best way to improve the infrastructure of a community for a very small fraction of the cost. 
*Another difference is privately owned airports are operated with little or no say by the public, public airports allow public input, usually answering to a governing unit, elected by the people.

Publicly owned airports are run by a government employee, a company, or something similar, but about 2 out of 3 smaller airports in Michigan are run by a person who manages the airport for the owning entity, and also runs a business at the airport. This business is referred to as a fixed base operator, or FBO.  The combination manager/FBO works well in most cases-the operator gets a place to do business, while also performing management duties for the governing body.  *The governing body gets to keep the airport attended at much less than the cost of a full time employee. This is the situation at the Beaver Island Airport where Rachel Teague from Fresh Air Aviation serves as the manager/FBO.
*Additionally, the success of a privately owned airport is due mainly to the strength of the owner; governments can make changes easily until the right combination is found.

November 19, 2011 The savings experienced by air passenger consumers with two Island charter services
 
I don't think many people realize the impact Fresh Air Aviation has had on the Island 's economy in the last 5 1/2 years. Based on about 15,000 round trips times, 5 1/2 years times $25 savings per ticket, the entrance of Fresh Air Aviation has saved air travelers $2,062,500 dollars!!!! 

That's not like a 2 million dollar project where most of the money goes to materials and some off Island work, but a direct savings of over $2 million dollars on air fares to/from the Island .  This has allowed a lot of people, especially groups, to be able to afford to visit the Island . This is extra money ALL of us save and one of the biggest contributors to the Island 's economy in the last 5 years. Yes, bigger than CMU's building, bigger than the Community Center, bigger than the Marathons - all great things to be sure, but nothing comes close to the 2 million dollars of direct savings to consumers - money able to be spent elsewhere on the Island .  

This is possible because, in addition to a fine private airport, we also have a public airport that meets State and Federal safety guidelines that allows relatively easy entry to an air charter company, and also allows easy exit, when it's time to move on.  By the way, exclusivity of operation is prohibited at a public airport, making other operators possible if demand allows.  

When I started coming to the Island in the late 60's, the airport was a grass strip. Joe Mc Phillips did a night landing for our band using car headlights for airport lights. Since that time, we have extended the runway several times, paved it, added runway lights, VASI lights-that's visual approach slope indicator lights for night and low visibility landings, an AWOS-automated weather observation system, and NDB approach – that is a non directional beacon, which was upgraded to a GPS approach, an environmentally safe fuel system, an inside weather computed station, and an enlarged apron area. Tremendous improvements over the years, thanks to volunteers like Robert Gillespie, Joe Reed, Jim Wojan, Don Vyse, and many others - sorry if I missed your name/

In conclusion to this segment, let me repeat- Competition in air travel has been a tremendous saving boost to this Island's economy. It was made possible by a public airport, paid for by all the users of the U.S. air transportation system. We are indeed fortunate to have been able, through a lot of hard work by a number of good people through the years to continuously grow and improve this airport. 
 Mike Scripps

Chair – Beaver Island Airport Commission

COA Report to Charlevoix County Commissioners

The following report was prepared by Jack Messer, director of Charlevoix County Commission on Aging:

The report to the commissioners was  designed to be delivered to the Committee of the Whole to help them make an informed decision regarding the future for COA services. The entire  focus group report, is posted in its entirety on the COA web site.  The highlights of what the COA  learned are included in the Report to the Commissioners by Jack Messer  for the purpose of addressing generational differences.   This is an important part of the discussions regarding the development of a "sustainable model" for senior services.  The COA is now try to following  up with the focus groups, and the public, regarding where we go from here.  Thus:  save the date below

Save the date..

December 13 th St James Township Hall – invitation from the COA Advisory Board for feedback and information gathering session regarding COA programs and services.  Information about the alternatives that the COA Executive Director is presenting to the County Commissioners and addressing opportunities and challenges.

Link to the full report as a PDF

Children's Book Sale

Both new and used

November 25th and 26th

At the Beaver Island District Library

Noon to 5:00 p.m.

Happy Birthday, Lawrence McDonough!

Rumor has it that Lawrence McDonough is ninety-seven years old today, November 15, 2011. While rumors are not the purpose of Beaver Island News on the 'Net, all the cars down Carlisle Road parked by Lawrence's residence might suggest that some celebration is taking place there. Happy Birthday, Lawrence! May you enjoy your day! BINN hopes it's a fantastic day for you!

Island Treasures Announcement

Island Treasures will be closed for the Thanksgiving weekend to allow our volunteers time for families and feasting. We will reopen on Thursday, Dec. 1 for Christmas shopping and treasure hunting.  If you need help with donations or shopping, please call Donna at 2797.  Thank you for the tremendous support from our volunteers, donors, and shoppers.

CCSD and BI Fire Department Call on Sunday Evening

Sheriff W.D. (Don) Schneider reports on 11/13/2011 at 17:49 hrs. the Beaver Island Fire Department and Sheriff's Office was dispatched to the area of East Side Dr. near the Welke Airport for a vehicle that had struck a utility pole and had left the scene.

The Sheriff's Office investigation revealed a 1989 Chevy pickup was traveling West on East Side Dr. in Peaine Township when that vehicle ran off the roadway, drove over an embankment, and struck a utility pole.  The utility pole was completely broken leaving the wires across the roadway and part of the Island without power.

The driver of the vehicle, 31-year-old Beaver Island resident Roger Anderson fled the scene and was interviewed the following morning by the Charlevoix County Sheriff's Office.  Anderson admitted to the accident and that he had been drinking.

Anderson was cited for reckless driving and leaving the scene of an accident.

Price of Gasoline on Beaver Island

$4.69 per gallon

BEAVER ISLAND BOAT COMPANY NAMED ‘BUSINESS OF THE MONTH'

CHARLEVOIX, MI - Beaver Island Boat Company (BIBCO) is proud to be named “November Business of the Month” by the Charlevoix Chamber of Commerce.

The Charlevoix Chamber stated, “The business of the month is a business that goes above and beyond business as usual, positively impacting the community.” Selection is done by the Chamber Ambassador Committee and BIBCO will be a contender for the Charlevoix Chamber's Business of the Year Award.

When asked what they enjoyed about being a Charlevoix business, BIBCO stated “Charlevoix's beauty and natural waterway is the best part of being here. Passing under the drawbridge and waving to people along the boardwalk is an essential experience in Charlevoix and we are happy to be a part of it.”

The Beaver Island Boat Company stated that they feel privileged to not only be a ferry service for passengers, vehicles and pets but also so many of life's essentials that are transported to Beaver Island.

Pictured left to right): Erin Bemis (Charlevoix Chamber), Tim McQueer (BIBCO), Cathy Dewey (BIBCO), Barb Nunemaker (BIBCO).

Christmas Bazaar

The annual Christmas Bazaar was held on November 13, 2011,   from 11a.m. - 2:30 p.m. at the Gregg Fellowship Hall. The streets going by the church and the closest cross streets were lined with cars, which meant a good attendance for this event.

Video Clip of the Bazaar at the Gregg Fellowsip Center 

 

These first four pictures are by Phyllis Moore. Thank you, Phyllis!

In addition to many island artists, there were many people selling items to benefit different organizations as well. There were soup choices galore for those that might get hungry. The soup and cracker idea was excellent and was a donation for the Beaver Island Food Pantry in lieu of a specific fee for the soup. Here is a picture of three of the delicious soups:

A chowder, a wild rice soup, and a vegetable soup....Several others were available and were tasted as well-all were excellent!

Whether you were there to sell some items, were there to look for Christmas gifts, or there just to look, or just to eat. There was plenty for all. There is no way that all items were sold at this bazaar, so if you have any items that you are interested in, BINN will help point you in the correct direction.

Coming Soon to the World-wide Web!

Welcome to WTIM 17.5 on Your BINN Dial

Station Owner, Mr. Joseph Moore

Executive Director, Katrina Martin

Director, Mary Jane Martin

Assistant Director, Rob McPherson

On a time machine trip taken about two weeks ago, this recorded footage was located and the plan is to re-record it from the old video format to the newest video format. This is just too good not to share with all. One portion of the newscast will be shared at a time. This newscast video was made many years ago in a classroom and in a building that no longer exists--a trip down memory lane. Please let the editor know what you think about this idea.

So we go back in time when Beta tapes and VHS tapes were first coming out, when the first and only video camera was purchased by the school, and when Mr. Moore was teaching Social Studies at the Beaver Island Community School. Social Studies? Yes, Social Studies. These students were middle school students with four grades in the classroom.

Here we are! The Social Studies class reporting on WTIM (The class nickname was "What Time Is Math?"). The time period of the video report was beginning in 1750. The program name was Back to the Future.

 

This is the first reporter presentation by Rene Gillespie. Rene was responsible for the 1750-1752 timeline, and no editing has been done to the original video tape. Please remember that this presentation was done before computers and before PowerPoint presentations, and back when the art work was done by hand. The only pictures used were from a collection of historical drawings of historical figures. All the other boards and artwork were done by the individual presenter.

Rene Gillespie, 1750-1752

 

The second reporter was Jennifer Wojan. As previously stated, please remember that video was brand new to students and staff of Beaver Island Community School. The idea of editing was only in its infancy as well. This video tape is being presented in its entirety, so that you can experience or re-experience the beginnings of video production in the early years of these students. Mistakes are presented on purpose, and, for a reason. The reason is to give you the idea of what it took to accomplish this project that was never presented in any final form. The students were all proud of the effort and work that went into this project.

Jennifer Wojan, 1753-1755

 

Full Moon on Saturday Night

A fairly warm night with the full moon rising over Paradise Bay

11/11/11 at 11 a.m. Veterans' Day Observance

Flags at half mast

Special flag for November

Many island community members joined several island veterans at the Veterans' Memorial Park on November 11, 2011, at 11 a.m. to observe a remembrance ceremony for all veterans of the United States of American, and particularly those veterans, serving now and in the past, that have connections to island families. This day was windy and chilly, but the forecast rain and snow did not arrive.

Video of the Veterans' Day Observance on Beaver Island (approx. 8 minutes)

 

The text of the observance

Poppies passed out to those present by the BICS students

Community members and BICS students attended

AMVETs Post 46 represented by Bob Tidmore and Alvin LaFreniere

Kayln Jones presented "In Flanders Fields," one of the most popular poems written during World War I.

Bob Hoogendoorn presented a prayer

Bob Hoogendoorn played "Taps"

The Veterans' Day Observance ended close to 11/11/11 at 11:11 a.m.

Circuit Court Decision on the Airport Property

Friday, November 11, 2011----The hearing in circuit court, held over the last two days, allowed a jury of peers to decide the issue in the two island townships' property dispute with Keith and Christy Albin. The jury reviewed the facts of the case and made a decision. Allen Ackerman, attorney for the Albins stated, "This was a jury decision, and I hope there is no ill will. Let's hope this can finally be resolved and everyone can move on. This decision was not the fault of the people of the island nor the fault of the island officials."

The decision was in the favor of the Albins. The decision found that the date of the "taking of the property" was 2003. This was a significant decision in that this decision determined the value of the property. The year 2003 was the actual value of the property and this is when Albins lost the property. "The value of the property, based upon an appraisal at that time by the townships, was $750,000," stated Mr. Acherman, "and the jury awarded the amount of the Albin-obtained evaluation of 2003 which was $693,000."

The property was taken from the Albins eight years ago based upon the jury's decision. This amount is significantly higher than the amount that was offered by the townships, based upon an appraisal done in 2010. In 2010, the value of the property, by the townships' newer appraisal, was $350,000. The jury awarded almost twice this amount.

Mr. Ackerman stated, "This was one of the most quiet court cases that I have been involved in, and I'm sixty-four years old. There was not one raised voice. The townships presented their case with integrity."

Mr. Ackerman stated, "My hope is that the island people and island officials can get past this and move on into the future with no ill will."

The jury in this trial had to decide three issues:

Issue 1 was to determine when the" property had been taken." The jury decided in this judgement that the property "had been taken" on August 18, 2003. Issue 2 was to determine the amount of acreage taken. The jury decided in its judgement that the entire 150 acres had been taken. Issue 3 was to determine the value of the property taken. The jury in this judgement determined the value of property was $693,000.

From the beginning, it was known that amount of property needed in the "runway protection zone" was a specific twenty acres of Albin property, yet the negotiations for the property continued to include the entire 150 acres. The 150 acres was valued at that time at $5000 per acre, which was $750,000. During this time the agreements were signed by the townships and the Albins at least twice, once as an exchange for DNR property, and this exchange plus the other exchange was denied by the State of Michigan. Interesting as well is that the Airport Committee and the two townships have known since 2001, the year the airport was improved; paved, the runway extended, and widened; that the FAA required this specific twenty acres as part of a "runway protection zone."

This judgement is against St. James and Peaine Townships and not against the Airport Commission. The townships had previously paid the Albins the amount for twenty acres evaluated in 2008-9 at $191,000. This means that the amount of money owed the Albins in this judgement is still $502,000. The Albins may still be entitled to not only this half million dollars, but also interest, appraisal fees, and lawyer fees over the last 8 years.

A Letter from Jack Gallagher Related to the Airport Lawsuit

Update On Land Acquisition for Townships' Airport 

To Peaine Residents and Property Owners:

Lawsuit Verdict and Potential Consequences:

Last Thursday, a Charlevoix County Circuit Court jury reached a verdict in the Townships' lawsuit to acquire land for the Township Airport. After considering evidence presented at the trial, the jury upheld the Albins' claims that the Townships took 150 acres of their property next to the Airport in August 2003 with a value of $693,000. This value is $502,000 greater than the $191,000 paid to the Albins in June 2010 and creates a potentially significant liability for St. James and Peaine Townships. The Townships are also responsible for interest from August 2003.

Acquisition of this land, including various fees and costs, (legal fees, appraisal fees, court costs) was to be financed with 95% Federal/State funds. The original amount allocated by the State for this acquisition, including fees and costs, was $300,000. The Townships were to provide 5% of the cost. At the present time, the actual amount of fees and costs for this acquisition is not known but should be known in about a month.

Additional funding from Federal/State allocations is expected to be received by the Townships to assist in payment of the costs and fees incurred in this acquisition. It is possible, however, that the allocations received will not cover all acquisition costs. In this case, the Townships will be responsible to pay the difference. The amount of additional funding or when it might be received is not known at this time. A delay in obtaining this information is expected. Using additional allocations to pay for the land acquisition may well defer other planned Airport investments for some period of time.

Significant Information about the Lawsuit:

In June 2010, St. James and Peaine Townships filed a lawsuit in the Charlevoix County Circuit Court to acquire property owned by the Albins next to the Township Airport. This property was required as a result of expanding the length and width of the airport runway in 2001. Approximately 20 acres were required to satisfy the land requirements of Federal and State aviation authorities. The lawsuit was filed under the Townships' right to acquire private property for public need and use.

The Townships asked that the 20 acres be transferred to them for use as a “runway protection zone”. Title to the property was transferred to the Townships shortly after filing the lawsuit and $191,000 was paid to the Albins. The amount paid was based upon a professional appraiser's estimate of the value of the 20 acres.

Under the law governing the taking of private property by a governmental authority, the Albins had the right to challenge the Townships' claims concerning 1) the value of the property taken, 2) the date on which it was taken and 3) the amount of the property taken. In this type of lawsuit, the jury, after considering the evidence submitted, provides the answer to each of these issues.

The Townships claimed 1) the property was taken in June 2010, shortly after filing the lawsuit, 2) only 20 acres were taken and 3) the value of the property taken was $191,000. The Albins claimed 1) the property was taken in August 2003, 2) 150 acres were taken (all property owned near the airport) and 3) the value of the property taken was $693,000.

After nearly two days of testimony and evidence, the jury upheld the Albins' claims.

Additional Information:

As additional information is received, it will be reported to you. You may contact me by telephone (Township Hall 448-2389 or Home 448-2441 or email johngallagher@tds.net ) if you wish further details.

Supervisor Jack Gallagher

Peaine Township Meeting, 11/09/11

The Peaine Township meeting started at 7 p.m. at the township hall, with the first decision being about who should run the meeting since Jack Gallagher was over in Charlevoix attending a legal proceeding. The winner ended up being Larry Kubic, who ran the meeting quite well, and accomplished all the items on the agenda including two items that were added to the agenda, the need to schedule a joint township meeting with St. James with Michael Slattery, consultant on the air ambulance/air transport issue. Also added was the desire to have the two townships share the costs of having Mr. Slattery come to answer any and all questions about this important issue.

Video of this meeting can be watched HERE

November Library News

It hardly seems possible, but Christmas is almost upon us. With that in mind, the Beaver Island District Library is going to have a Children's Book Sale on November 25th and 26th from noon til five.. This will be children's books only , no adult books. This would be a terrific time to pick up some new books for your kids. Books make wonderful Christmas gifts, so please stop in and check out all the great books we'll have for sale.

We're all set for Mother Nature to slip on her white coat. Plants and planters are stored, the new Dan Gentle benches from the Memorial Garden are on display in the entryway and getting rave reviews from those who hadn't seen them while they were outside, the new eaves are up and working great. We are ready for Jack Frost to begin painting our windows!

Did you know that libraries are magical places? It's only at the library that you can travel back in time. It's only in the library that you can change forms – you can be a giant, a dragon, a tiny ant, even an earthworm. In the library you can fly, you can become a Super Hero, you can be and do anything. How you ask? Though your imagination and a good book! Stop in, bring the kids and introduce them to fantasy books, science fiction, and authors such as Tolkien and Rowling or Keene and Stein, check out fun books like “There's a hair in my dirt” or “Diary of a Whimy Kid”. We have literally thousands of books to pick from.

When you enter the library check out the posted lists of Best Sellers just inside the door. We think you'll be pleasantly surprised by how many of them we own. Remember, if it isn't available, we can reserve it for you when it is returned.

We also have many, many new DVD's for your entertainment. While we love getting them as gifts, please do not donate those that are severely scratched/broken. You don't want to watch those, and neither do our patrons. We can repair a lot of minor scratches, but if it looks as though it's been kicked around on the floor, we'd just as soon you toss it in the trash. Remember, we do NOT take any VHS tapes.

With the holidays upon us, remember we have a huge music collection and each CD may be checked out just like a book. You can listen to jazz, classical, country, Irish, and many Island musicians.

Working with the school's 21st Century Learning program, librarian M.G. Roe, has been reading to many of the school children as part of the after school project. This is a great way to get the younger generations interested in reading.

Don't forget, The Children's Book Sale on November 24th and 25th from noon to five! Lots to chose from and they make great gifts. Think of all the happenings coming up in 2012 – New Year, Birthdays, Christmas, Easter, and for just the fun of it and to exercise your, and your kids' imaginations. We look forward to seeing you!

Special Christmas Shopping Event – Dec 9

The Chamber of Commerce will purchaser a full page ad in the December issues of the Beaver Beacon and NorthernIslander to support: Christmas After Hours Open House – 5-8 PM Friday December 9, 2011.

Participating member businesses will be listed in the ad. Member businesses that want to be included should send their business name and a one sentence description of their sale event to Chamber@BeaverIsland.org no later than November 20 .

“This is the second year we have been pleased to support this local retail event. We hope this encourages Islanders to plan some local Christmas shopping,” said Chamber Executive Steve West.

St. James Township Board Meeting, November 2, 2011 Video

View video of the meeting HERE

View contents at the link above.

CMUBS 2012 JOB

Custodial and Hospitality Lead

Job Duties

The CMU Biological Station is looking for a seasonal Custodial and Hospitality Lead for the 2012 season, April 1 to October 31. The person who fills this role will work in the spring and fall doing custodial, hospitality, and kitchen assistant duties. During the summer the person will do custodial and hospitality work while supervising one student employee. These duties include but are not limited to cleaning bathrooms, cleaning classrooms and labs, cleaning housing units, washing linens, cleaning social areas, washing dishes, assisting with food preparation, and other duties as assigned.

Duties will require moderate to heavy lifting and the individual to be on their feet throughout the day.

Experience

The minimum qualifications for the position are:

•  High School degree or equivalent

•  At least one year of work experience

•  Possession of a valid driver's license

•  Must live on Beaver Island

Desired qualifications:

•  General computer knowledge

•  Previous supervisory experience

•  Some college or an associates degree

$10.50/hr, 40 hrs per wk (may be less at end of season), plus 3 meals per day. Position does not include benefits.

Job offer would be contingent upon passing a criminal history check, preemployment physical, and driver's license check.

INTERESTED INDIVIDUALS SHOULD EMAIL A RESUME AND COVER LETTER TO wul1bc@cmich.edu

CMU, an AA/EO institution, strongly and actively strives to increase diversity and provide equal opportunity within its community.

NRESC Executive Committee Special Meeting, 1/1/11

(Minor changes were made to the draft minutes from P. Grassmick to present this information. Thank you, Pam!)

The meeting of the NRESC Executive Committee was called to order by Pete Plastrik, at the request of Brian Mastenbrook, with two professors from MSU, John Beck and Julie Breckman, to learn about their offer to facilitate a Beaver Island natural resources management planning process. All five Executive Committee members were present. Three other Steering Committee members attended the meeting: Paul Johnson, Bill Parsons, and Ed Wojan. (Elaine West/ Northern Islander  also attended, as did the DNR's Rex Ainslie.) The offer of MSU resources had been communicated by Mastenbrook in September to both townships and there had been a meeting with the township supervisors, who said that the offer should be presented to the NRESC.

At the outset of the Tuesday meeting, Plastrik made it clear that the Executive Committee was only there to learn about the possibility, that it would let the Steering Committee know what it learned at the scheduled 11/21/2011 meeting of the Steering Committee, and that the Steering Committee would be the decision maker about whether or not to accept the offer and under what conditions.

The offer proposed: MSU facilitators led by Beck and Breckman would work with the NRESC, and whoever else we want to have involved in the planning process, to design and then facilitate/support a process for developing a natural resources management plan for the Island. MSU's work/expenses would be paid for by the DNR. The process would be our process, period--not the MSU process and not the DNR process. The goals, scope and activities of the planning process would be decided by the island.

The process would include activities to gain broad public input. The process would take as long as we want/need it to take, although if we want to include seasonal residents, it would have to last into summer. It seemed likely that the process could take 12-18 months. The DNR would be a stakeholder/participant in the process, but would not have any other role. Beaver Island is one of the first places for the DNR to try it.

During the conversation, many of the SC members expressed strong interest in pursuing the process and real appreciation of the DNR/MSU offer. After the discussion, the Executive Committee members agreed to recommend the following: (a) Plastrik should send to the Steering Committee a short note describing the meeting; (b) the Township boards would be briefed about the meeting; and (c) The Executive Committee would recommend to the Steering Committee that the offer be accepted.

St. James Township Lawyer Report

During last month's St. James Township Board meeting, Rick Speck was asked by his board and Donna Kubic to get an opinion from the St. James Township lawyer regarding the possibility of some type of combination of the Beaver Island Rural Health Center and Beaver Island Emergency Medical Service. St. James board members seemed to agree that these two organizations have similar goals, work well together, and are more likely to benefit from a combination instead of the Emergency Services Authority that was established in 2002 and constituted. The lawyer's opinion can be read below in a memorandum from YOUNG, GRAHAM, ELSENHEIMER & WENDLING, P.C. to Rick Speck, St. James Township Supervisor:

Read the Memo HERE

Being an American Essay Contest Deadline Approaches

Students Can Win Up to $1,000 in National Essay Competition Focused on the Constitution

Arlington, VA – The deadline for high-school students and their teachers to submit essays for the Bill of Rights Institute's national Being an American Essay Contest is fast approaching.  The Contest asks students to explore the Founding principles outlined in the Constitution by answering the question: “ How does the Constitution establish and maintain a culture of liberty? ”

The Contest, which has quickly become the largest high-school essay competition of its kind, totaling over 80,000 submitted essays, is administered by the Bill of Rights Institute, a non-profit educational organization in the Washington, D.C. area devoted to educating young people about the Constitution and Founding principles.

“This contest is unique in that it gives students the opportunity to think about the important Founding principles communicated in our Constitution,” said Dr. Jason Ross, Bill of Rights Institute Vice President of Education Programs. “This contest is vital to helping students see the Founding principles as a meaningful part of the American experiment of self-government.”

The top three student winners from each of five geographical regions will be awarded cash prizes of $1,000 (First Place), $500 (Second Place), and $250 (Third Place). Teacher sponsors of each student winner will also receive a cash prize of $100. 

Essays must be submitted online at www.BillofRightsInstitute.org/ Contest by 11:59 P.M. PST on December 15, 2011. Supporting contest materials, including lesson plans meeting Common Core standards, are provided at no cost to teachers who want to incorporate the Essay Contest into their classroom.

The Contest is sponsored by the History Channel . “We are pleased to support the Bill of Rights Institute's Being an American Essay Contest,” said Dr. Libby O'Connell, SVP, Corporate Outreach and Chief Historian, History Channel. "The contest encourages students to think critically and truly makes the past relevant in their lives today."

The Essay Contest serves as a key part of the Bill of Rights Institute's mission to educate young people about the words and ideas of America's Founders, the liberties guaranteed in our Founding documents, and how our Founding principles continue to affect and shape a free society. Complete contest details can be found below. 

BEING AN AMERICAN ESSAY CONTEST

2011-2012 SCHOOL YEAR PARTICIPATING REGIONS: 

North Eastern Region:
Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont

Southern Region:
Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, Washington, D.C., West Virginia as well as Puerto Rico and the United States Virgin Islands
Mid-Western Region:
Kentucky, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, Wisconsin

Central Region:
Colorado, Kansas, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas, Wyoming

Western Region:
Alaska, Arizona , California, Hawaii, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington as well as Guam, American Samoa, and American Armed Forces Schools Abroad (APO)

SPONSORING ORGANIZATION:  Bill of Rights Institute, Arlington, VA.

The Bill of Rights Institute, founded in 1999, is a nonprofit educational organization. The mission of the Bill of Rights Institute is to educate young people about the words and ideas of America's Founders, the liberties guaranteed in our Founding documents, and how our Founding principles continue to affect and shape a free society.

FUNDING PROVIDED BY:  History Channel (New York City, NY).

CONTEST GOAL:  To help promote dialogue among students and teachers about American Founding principles. The Essay Contest serves as a key part of the Bill of Rights Institute's mission to educate young people about the words and ideas of America's Founders, the liberties guaranteed in our Founding documents, and how our Founding principles continue to affect and shape a free society.

ESSAY QUESTION : “ How does the Constitution establish and maintain a culture of liberty?”

ELIGIBILITY:  Students in grades 9-12 who are U.S. citizens or legal residents and are either attending public, private, religious, or charter schools, being home-schooled, or participating in a GED or correspondence school program but are no older than 19 years of age.  Military bases and U.S. territories are also invited to participate.

ESSAY LENGTH:   No more 1,000 words.

JUDGING CRITERIA:

JUDGES:   High school teachers

STUDENT CASH PRIZES:   Three cash prizes per region will be awarded to students: 

TEACHER CASH PRIZES:   Cash prizes of $100 will be awarded to the teachers of all winning students: 

CONTEST START DATE:   September 17, 2011

DEADLINE FOR ESSAY SUBMISSIONS:   December 15, 2011 at 11:59 p.m. PST. All essays must be submitted at www.BillofRightsInstitute.org/ Submit .

WINNERS ANNOUNCED:   February 2012

WEB SITE AND CONTEST GUIDELINES: www.BillofRightsInstitute.org/ Contest

Outdoor Writer Hosted by Chamber and Partners

Outdoor writer Darren Warner is on the Island this weekend bow hunting for deer and learning about the Beaver Island Quality Deer Management (QDM) story. He will be preparing stories for several publications. Over the next five years as QDM develops the Chamber of Commerce will host / assist Warner and others each fall to document and tell the story of improved deer hunting and the economic impact on Beaver Island .

A big Thank You to Chamber of Commerce host partners Fresh Air Aviation, Paul Johnson, Jeff Powers DVM, Ed Wojan and Todd Ireland .

CMU BioStation Has Research Facility Plans for USCG Boat House

At the St. James meeting on Wednesday, November 2. 2011 CMU representatives presented a plan for use of the boathouse for research. Their plans include the ability to modify the environment including temperature of each of the proposed twelve tanks to be installed there, each with its own individual heat pump. This will make this research facility unique in the State of Michigan. Here is the newsletter that they passed out at the meeting, so you can read more about it.

Beaver Island Recreation Plan Survey

Your Input Requested

Here is an opportunity to have your voice heard in an important planning process on Beaver Island. The St James Township Board is developing a 5-year recreation plan with goals and priorities. As part of the process the township is seeking input from all year-round and seasonal residents of Beaver Island, as well as visitors. There will also be an opportunity for public feedback on a draft plan.

Please take a few minutes to respond to this survey online by going to this link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/ s/RRRHSF5 .   It's easy and fun—if you haven't taken one of these online before, try this one!  If you prefer to fill out a printed copy of the survey, it can be picked up at (and returned to) the Community Center, the Health Center, the Library, McDonough's Market, or Welke Airport terminal.  The survey results will be included in the plan. Thank you.

Mammograms Save Lives

With the help of the Circle of Strength Voucher Program,

at Charlevoix Are Hospital, no woman has to go without

a mammogram.

Please call the Beaver Island Health Center

for more information  448-2275.

EB Lange's Address

Chelsea Retiremenht Community

805 W. Middle Street

Chelsea, MI 48118

Island Connected Business Manager Helps Veterans

Randi Hunter, manager of the Charlevoix AmericInn and a Navy veteran serving from 2000-2004, is establishing a discount program for veterans. The idea is for veterans to obtain an ID card from the Veterans Affairs offices in Charlevoix and Emmett counties. When this card is produced at area businesses, the veteran would receive a discount on purchases or services. Registered veterans will then be provided with a list of participating merchants.

"There isn't much out there for veterans after their service," said Randi. "I wanted to change that. Anyone who has ever served can get this ID card and then qualifies for these discounts. I was interviewed on Monday the 24th by the Petoskey News Review, and I hope to expand this to many more businesses in Charlevoix and Emmet counties. There are over 7800 veterans in these two counties, and they deserve something after serving their country."

Participating businesses who have already signed up to provide discounts to veterans are: Island Airways will give a 10% discount year round, Northern Michigan Dust Control will give a 25% discount year round, Fox Motors of Charlevoix will give a 10% discount on parts and labor.

Business owners or managers who wish to register for the program may contact Hunter at  (231) 237-0988 or via email at Charlevoix.mi@americinn.com.

Birthdays This Week

Monday: Carol Gillespie

Tuesday: Diane Grametbauer Sowa, Tony Gatliff

Wednesday: Kerry Gillespie, Joanne Pitman

Thursday: Jenny Callan, Amy Dorr

Friday: Scott Kausbaum, Emily King Boyle

Saturday: Alex Kuligoski

Sunday: Jessica Cherry

Fundraiser for Soldiers of the Michigan Army

The Beaver Island Community School National Honor Society is doing a fundraiser for the Soldiers of the Michigan Army.

No alcohol can be in the items, and nothing flammable can be sent.

View flyer

Free Health Tests

Free Cholesterol Screening, Blood Pressure monitoring, EKG test.

Call the Beaver Island Rural Health Center 448-2275 for an appointment

This is made possible through a grant from the American Heart Association.

2011 October BICS Newsletter

 Now Available

The DVD, "I Dream of the Island"

Great Christmas Gift

The video is now in stock at McDonough's Market (231) 448-2733 and the Beaver Island Boat Co (888) 446-4095 . The suggested retail price is $9.95. There would be a charge for shipping and handling if you want the DVD mailed.

The updated and complete list of Chamber member merchants selling the new I Dream of the Island DVD: McDonough's Market, Beaver Island Boat Co. (both locations), Paradise Bay Coffee Shop, The Blue Pearl, The Community Center, and the Beaver Island Marina. This DVD makes a wonderful Christmas gift.

BIRHC SEEKS BOARD APPLICATIONS

The Beaver Island Rural Health Center is seeking applicants interested in serving on its board of directors. Board positions will be filled at the annual meeting, Saturday, January 21, 2012.

Board terms are for three years and directors are not compensated. The BIRHC board meets every other month on the third Saturday. Directors are expected to attend most of the meetings, either in person or by speakerphone.

Candidates should be team players who will champion the cause of the Health Center and be willing to contribute their time and talents to board activities, including fundraising. Full or part-time residents are encouraged to apply by letter to the BIRHC Selection Committee, P.O. Box 146, Beaver Island, MI 49782.

For more information, applicants may contact Donna Kubic, Managing Director; Denny Cook, President; John Martin, Vice President; or John Works, Secretary. Candidates should send or drop off a letter which states their interest and tells a little about themselves by the deadline of December 21, 2011.

BIA Invasive Species Mind Map

Link to Flowchart

NRESC Meeting Dates Determined

Beaver Island Natural Resources and Eco-tourism Steering Committee

2011-2012 Meeting Schedule

All meetings open to the public

Entire Steering Committee to meet at 7 p.m. at Peaine Township Hall

November 21, 2011

January 16, 2012

March 19, 2012

May 21, 2012

July 16, 2012

Executive Committee to meet at 4:30 p.m. at Peaine Township Hall **denotes date or time change

November 21, 2011

December 19, 2012

January 16, 2012

February 20, 2012

March 19, 2012

April 16, 2012

May 21, 2012

June 18, 2012

July 16, 2012

Beaver Island Community School College and Career Day, May 29, 2012– Volunteers Wanted

Volunteer to support The Beaver Island Community School

College and Career Day! - May 2012

Click Here for information and Form for Submission

Beaver Island Food Pantry and Gregg Fellowship Hall Donations Accepted

Click Here to donate

Flu Shots Available

Donna Kubic, manager of the BIRHC, announced today that the flu shots are now available. Please call BIRHC at 448-2275 to set up an appointment. 

B. I. Community School Board Meetings Schedule

View Meetings Schedule HERE

Beaver Island Association Invasive Species

Click Here to View Slides

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!

We post school events, religious events, sports events, visiting minister events, and many other events including musical events, special events, and even regularly scheduled events. At the very least, the event will go on the Community Calendar, so others won't schedule something at the exact day and time of your event. Imagine the following:

Two well known and exceptional fundraising events are scheduled on the same day. How sad for those who work so hard to raise funds for a good cause.

This can be avoided by sending your dates to BINN,. You can send them by postal mail, email, or even call the editor at 448-2416. Email medic5740@gmail.com

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

Consultant Report Available

The Feasibility Evaluation for Establishing a Fixed Wing Medical Evacuation Capability for Beaver Island EMS was presented to both St. James and Peaine Townships at their meetings in August. This feasibility evaluation was completed by a consultant Michael Slattery to eliminate any misunderstandings and to provide the information for BIEMS and the two townships to move forward. This report is many pages long, but Beaver Island News on the 'Net believes that it is important enough to post the entire document including all of the legislation that pertains to this issue. You may view this report by clicking on the link below.

Feasibility Evaluation for Establishing a Fixed Wing Medical Evacuation Capability for Beaver Island EMS

Air Transport for Island Medical Emergencies (ATIME for Us)

by Joe Moore

Read Article HERE

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.

 

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.

Beaver Island Transfer Station Information

Expired Subscriptions

Please send us your email address.

There are quite a few subscriptions that will expire in July 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 Steering Committee Minutes

Beaver Island Transportation Authority Minutes

Joint Human Resources Commission Minutes

Waste Management Committee Minutes

Beaver Island Airport Commission Minutes New for 2011!