Good morning, Traverse City.

Grand Traverse Bay YMCA has entered the public phase of its capital campaign as it seeks community donations to fund a new gym, expanded childcare, and an indoor walking space ahead of a planned May groundbreaking — designed to enhance opportunities for families and students.

Traverse City's first Donut & Beer Festival will debut June 13 from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Turtle Creek Stadium, featuring over 200 donuts, craft beers, ciders, and live entertainment (including a Morgan Wallen tribute and micro wrestling); priority ticket sales open March 19.

Yesterday, March 5, Tom Dalluge presented an update on the Dougherty House American Chestnut Preservation Project titled 'Return of the Chestnut' at the Old Mission Peninsula Historical Society meeting at Peninsula Community Library, 2893 Island View Road; the event ended with a brief business meeting.

Northern Michigan author Karen Bell-Brege and illustrator Darrin Brege have released the children’s book Bigfoot, Birdie and Bob and have partnered with Northwoods Soda to offer Biggie the Bigfoot Butterscotch Cream soda at local stores; sales from both will benefit the Michigan Reading Association’s literacy programs.

Traverse City Area Public Schools will approve a $17 million bid for a new clubhouse and fieldhouse next to East Middle School during a board meeting Monday at 5 p.m.; the facility will feature athletic fields, a six-lane track, and batting cages funded by community partners and capital bonds.

UpNorthLive Unscripted on ABC 29&8 hosted a poll on Thursday, March 5 asking viewers if more schools should go screenless.

The segment aimed to gather local input on educational trends.

Traverse City Light & Power received the 2025 Diamond Safety Award of Excellence from the American Public Power Association for its focused efforts in safety and risk management; the utility will be formally recognized at the 2026 Safety Summit.

City and county officials approved a land transfer for two parcels along Eighth Street—located near Lake Avenue at the former Copy Central building (314 E.

Eighth St)—to support a planned 40–45 unit workforce housing project.

The Onekama Portagers (16-10) ended the Traverse City Christian Sabres' undefeated season during Thursday night’s regional final in McBain and will face Wyoming-Tri Unity Christian on March 10 in Big Rapids.

An Evening with Anna Quindlen featuring 'More Than Enough'

2:00 – 3:30 PM — Traverse City Central High School — Cost information not provided — Explore themes of love, hope, and friendship in Anna Quindlen's latest novel during this engaging event.

Fifth Third Bank Leapin' Leprechaun 5k

1-2 p.m. — Lake Ave, Traverse City, MI — Registration fee — Celebrate St. Patrick's Day with a festive 5k race benefiting the NICU at Munson Medical Center.

Shakespeare Festival at the Village

1-5 p.m. — The Village at Grand Traverse Commons — Free entry — Experience bite-sized Shakespeare performances interspersed with local food and drink in a historic setting.

Aerie x Folgarelli's Taste of South Africa

Four-course wine dinner — Evening — Grand Traverse Resort and Spa — Ticketed event — Celebrate the bold flavors and heritage of South African cuisine paired with Babylonstoren wines.

The Lords of 52nd Street Live Performance

8-9 p.m. — Leelanau Sands Casino & Lodge — Ticket prices vary — Experience the original band behind Billy Joel’s biggest hits in a high-energy live concert.

Spring Break at the Museum

11 AM – 4 PM — Dennos Museum Center — Kids are free with adults — Enjoy a Spring Break adventure with a family scavenger hunt and prizes.

Easter Brunch Celebration

10 AM - 3 PM — Aerie Restaurant & Lounge — Adults $58, Children $18 — Indulge in a delightful brunch feast with family and friends this Easter Sunday.