Good morning, Traverse City.

NMCAC will host an open house to share details about its planned facility expansion in Traverse City + the event is expected soon to explain how the new space will serve local programs.

A $100,000 grant will boost pedestrian safety, accessibility, and local business in the East Side Social District today (a popular spot for community gatherings).

The funding aims to enhance the area for upcoming events.

Abby Clear, founder of Lakes And Grapes, started Walk Club in 2024 to boost downtown community spirit - the program offers a free bi-weekly two-mile walk and social time at her store.

Father Fred Foundation will host its last garage sale Saturday from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. in the five counties it serves, offering items such as seasonal decorations, clothing, and antiques with proceeds supporting community programs.

Traverse City’s Human Rights Commission will celebrate local award winners on May 18 at 5:30 p.m. in the Governmental Center’s second-floor Training Room; Marcello Betti will receive the Sara Hardy Humanitarian Award and Business/Organization Awards will go to HelpLink & the Neurodiversity Support Center.

The Little Traverse Bay Humane Society assisted Kalkaska County Animal Control with 15 surrendered Chihuahuas in Harbor Springs and provided emergency transport and shelter.

The dogs now receive medical evaluations and await fostering — community donations and volunteer homes are encouraged.

The nonprofit Bay Community Theatre will host Wine Weekend from May 15-17 featuring food, wine and film pairings at the theatre in Suttons Bay.

Event activities include tastings with local wineries — starting at 6 p.m. on May 15 with a screening of 'Widow Clicquot'.

The recent cold snap has kept bees grounded in Leelanau County, which may delay spring pollination for local fruit crops.

Experts say bees will only become active on warm, sunny days, as they depend on enough heat to maintain hive temperatures.

MDARD announced $525,000 in grants for county fair improvements, including $92,049 to replace a poultry barn at the Northwestern Michigan Fair in Traverse City, supporting agricultural traditions and education in the region.

Local farmers oppose a plan by Ranger Power to convert 1,500 acres of farmland to a solar project – they fear it may damage organic crops and local farm jobs.

A public meeting is scheduled for May 18 at 6:30 p.m. at the Wexford County Road Commission.

The inaugural Great Lakes Region Child Safety Conference was held Thursday in Traverse City to help adults spot signs of abuse and learn how to report concerns.

Experts shared tips on understanding children’s normal behavior (with abuse affecting 1 out of every 10 children) to promote early intervention.

Munson Healthcare hospitals in Northern Michigan earned an A safety grade from The Leapfrog Group on May 7, placing them in the top quarter nationally.

Hospital leaders say this grade underlines the system’s commitment to safe patient care & quality improvement.

Jill Wilson, executive director at Norte Youth Cycling, describes spring's arrival in our community as gradual (with daffodils, forsythia, tulips and hyacinths emerging amid lingering winter remnants) and inspiring local cyclists to venture outdoors.

Spring Art Market

10 AM – 4 PM — Dennos Museum Center — Free entry — Engage with over 25 artists showcasing diverse media from painting to ceramics.

Traverse City Repair Cafe

10 AM – 2 PM — Traverse Area District Library — Donation-based — Bring your household items to be repaired by skilled volunteers and help reduce waste.

Astrophysics with Radioactive Isotopes 2026

8 a.m. - 12 p.m. — Hagerty Center — Registration fees apply — Explore the role of radioactive nuclei in astrophysics at this comprehensive conference.

GTAGS Monthly Genealogy Program

1-3 p.m. — Traverse Area District Library, McGuire Room — Free entry — Explore your ancestry at this engaging genealogy program open to everyone.

Butterflies & Brews Fundraiser

3-7 p.m. — Right Brain Brewery — $40 ($20 for under 17) — Enjoy a fun-filled afternoon featuring a butterfly release, silent auction, and kids' crafts supporting butterfly conservation.

Interlochen Summer Job Fair

1-5 p.m. — Traverse Area District Library — Free entry — Explore summer job opportunities in a variety of camp roles at this local job fair.

Traverse City Spring Art & Craft Show

9 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Open Space Park — Free entry — Dive into the heart of summer with local and regional artists showcasing stunning works.

Traverse City Spring Art & Craft Show

9 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Open Space Park, Traverse City, MI — Free entry — Celebrate summer creativity with stunning local art and live entertainment at this vibrant outdoor show.