Good morning, Traverse City.

Central United Methodist Church said it will merge with Traverse Bay United Methodist Church effective July 1 due to rising costs and fewer people attending.

The two churches will pool resources to better serve local members.

The Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation awarded more than $900K to 24 nonprofit and school partners through the Wilfred and Joan Larson Endowment, including $110,000 for student scholarships (grants went to groups across several counties).

Traverse Area Recreation and Transportation Trails is hosting the 14th annual Recycle-A-Bicycle Bike Swap this Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Old Town Parking Deck where locals can test and buy used bikes and accessories—sellers may drop off bikes Friday from 6 to 8 p.m. and pick up unsold bikes Saturday from 2 to 4 p.m.

Certified physician’s assistant Daniel F.

Ladd joined Munson Healthcare Rheumatology at 3537 West Front Street, Suite A in Traverse City because he saw a need for specialized care—he is board certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Associates and earned his degree from Mercy College of Detroit. Marilena David was named director of the State Appellate Defender Office after Jonathan Sacks retired in January—she will oversee more than 100 full-time employees and 125 roster attorneys representing about 3,000 people each year.

David Lyden and Josh Monroe were nominated for an Emmy award for their feature story 'Filling the Need' — the work details how the Gaylord Diocese recruited international priests to ease a long-standing priest shortage in northern Michigan.

Tourism professionals in Traverse City and across Michigan met in a roundtable hosted by Bridge Michigan to plan the summer season while discussing new trends and challenges.

Attendees reviewed data from the Pure Michigan travel office and the Tourism Industry Coalition of Michigan that showed over $53 billion in economic impact in 2023 — a figure linked to more than 346,000 jobs statewide.

Legislators at the statehouse addressed school safety and mental health in a bipartisan session on May 14th by proposing bills that require updated emergency plans, regular safety drills, and designated mental health coordinators.

The proposals follow the Oxford High School shooting in 2021 that killed four students and injured seven others.

Recycle-A-Bicycle Bike Swap

9 a.m. – 1 p.m. — Old Town Parking Structure — Free entry — Discover a variety of used bikes and support local families in need through the Recycle-a-Bicycle program.

Traverse City Counter Day

11 a.m. — Young Supply Company — Free cheesesteak lunch — Enjoy mouth-watering cheesesteaks during this local community event.

Cherry Capital Comic Con 2025

5 PM – 5 PM — Grand Traverse Resort and Spa — Ticket prices vary — Northern Michigan's premier comic book and pop culture festival featuring panels, artists, and collectible vendors.

Bayshore Marathon VIP Experience

5:30-8 a.m. — Timothy J. Nelson Innovation Center & Library — Complimentary access — Upgrade your race day with exclusive amenities and snacks to fuel your run.

Music Mondays at Blush Rooftop Terrace

4-6 p.m. — Alexandra Inn — Free entry — Unwind with live acoustic performances and craft cocktails while enjoying stunning rooftop views in Traverse City.

Northwest Michigan Art and Culture Summit

12 PM – 9 PM — City Opera House — Cost info not provided — Explore the vibrant arts and cultural scene at this community-centric summit across multiple venues.

The Big Run Celebration

6-8 p.m. — Hull Park — Free entry — Celebrate Global Running Day with a fun 4-mile run followed by a community party with food and drinks.

Romantic Dances with Four Hands

7-8:15 p.m. — Music House Museum — Ticket prices not listed — Experience an evening of enchanting romantic music performed by acclaimed pianists Hyemin Kim and Michael Coonrod.

Unlocking Creative Potential for Business Growth

11 AM – 1 PM — Traverse City Country Club — Tickets required — Discover how creativity can drive innovation and leadership in business.

Black Star Farms Paella Night

6:30-8:00 p.m. — Bistro Polaris at Black Star Farms — Check event page for pricing — Savor the delightful aromas of freshly prepared paella right on the patio.