Good morning, Traverse City.

Kerry Kelly recalled that a planned surprise for longtime volunteer and storyteller Leonard Thoreson on his 90th birthday nearly backfired at the Port Oneida Fair—Thoreson grew up on his family farm and still volunteers regularly in the historic district.

Toby and Joelle Dunne of Michigan Impossible—known for operating De Food Truck's gluten-free menu—bought a scrubby 1.8-acre lot in Interlochen and plan to turn it into a vibrant community hub.

They also work on affordable housing and sustainable property management ventures—Joelle runs her own herbal and silversmithing business—to expand their local impact.

The State Theatre announced a new film series, Community Night, that will partner with local organizations to select films; the series will run at 7 p.m. on Wednesdays starting April 2, featuring a 4k restoration of Amadeus—PG offered by Interlochen in Town.

On Saturday, March 29, emergency services and utility companies braced for severe weather as the Mackinac Bridge Authority and MDOT issued a special ice warning and high wind alert—drivers were asked to use the right lane and high-profile vehicles needed escorts.

MDOT said the bridge may have closed if wind speeds had reached 60 mph and current conditions were posted online.

Traverse City Police Department officers now use upgraded technology—devices that detect illegal drugs and drunken drivers—to help them perform their duties.

State data shows that in 2023 nearly 41 percent of Michigan roadway deaths involved drugs or alcohol, adding urgency to the effort.

Wine Tasting for Singles: Traverse City Tour

Sunset Wine Tour — All evening — Traverse City, MI — Ticket costs may vary — Sip exquisite wines from local vineyards while enjoying stunning bay views and making new connections.

Up North Lake and Cottage Show

12-6 p.m. — Traverse City Civic Center Skate Park — Admission fees may apply — Explore over 100 exhibitors offering everything for home improvement dreams.

A Celebration of Author Patrice Gopo

6:30-9:00 p.m. — Kirkbride Hall — Free entry — Celebrate award-winning author Patrice Gopo with a special presentation and refreshments.

Education Concert featuring Larry McCray

7-9 p.m. — Dennos Museum Center — Get tickets — Enjoy an evening with Larry McCray as he brings his distinctive blues rock sound to Traverse City.

Leighann Lord Live Stand-Up Comedy

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Traverse City Comedy Club — $20 entry — Enjoy an evening of laughs with Leighann Lord, a standout in comedy heard on XM-Sirius Satellite Radio.

Mari Vineyards Wine Run 5k

8:30-10:30 a.m. — Mari Vineyards — Registration fee applies — Run, walk, and sip in the scenic charm of northern Michigan's finest vineyard.

The Porch - AA Meeting

6-7 PM — 1010 S Garfield Ave — Free entry — Discover support for alcohol addiction and connect with others on the recovery journey.

Good Friday Fish & Seafood Dinner

6-8 p.m. — Bistro Polaris at Black Star Farms — Check website for cost — Meet Chef John Korycki as he presents a delightful seafood dinner with a touch of Italian flair.

The Tweed Tones Live Performance

5:30-8:30 p.m. — Cellar 152 — Free entry — Enjoy the soulful sounds of a two-piece band blending Chicago blues and early jazz.

Easter Brunch at Black Star Farms

9:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. — Inn at Black Star Farms — Check website for details — Indulge in a delightful Easter brunch with delicious offerings and included drinks.