Good morning, Traverse City.

The DTE Energy Foundation awarded a $50,000 grant to Venture North to deliver low-cost lending and free technical help for small businesses, especially in areas underserved by banks — the grant aims to boost operations and job retention in northern Michigan.

Traverse City's 100th National Cherry Festival concluded this week and exceeded expectations, featuring over 150 events — 90% free, with popular bed races and a Milk Carton Boat Regatta.

Organizers are planning the 101st festival to begin on July 3 next year.

Traverse City Area Public Schools approved over $42 million for renovations at Central Grade School.

The project will install a hybrid electric-gas HVAC system to reduce the building's carbon footprint while preserving its historic structure, with work by the John E. Green Company.

Phil Deloria, a Harvard historian, will present a lecture on federal laws at Leland Public School Performing Arts Center on Wednesday, July 22 at 6 p.m. Part of the America 250 series hosted by the Leelanau Historical Society, the free talk explains how these laws shaped statehood (affecting local history).

Walloon Lake Association and Conservancy has completed a 30-acre purchase to extend protections at Wildwood Harbor Nature Area in Charlevoix and Emmet Counties.

The acquisition will bolster local conservation efforts, preserving natural habitats for the community.

Emergency repairs on a broken sewer line begin today at the intersection of South Airport Road and Cass Road.

Drivers should expect closed lanes and shifted traffic for about two days (weather permitting).

The IRS postponed tax deadlines for individuals and businesses in over 30 disaster-declared counties until Nov.

2, 2026+ including Grand Traverse, following severe storms, tornadoes and flooding. Affected taxpayers should check the revised dates for filing returns and payments.

State and federal agencies opened Disaster Recovery Centers Monday in northern Michigan so residents affected by April storms can apply for FEMA aid and SBA loans, with specialists available to help with documentation and recovery steps.

MDHHS says lettuce and salad greens may be linked to a cyclosporiasis outbreak with over 2,500 cases reported statewide.

Residents should wash or cook greens thoroughly and seek care if they experience symptoms (such as stomach cramps or nausea).

Local businesses are shortening work shifts today due to an extreme heat advisory to protect employees from dangerous temperatures.

Some employers (including Summit Landscaping) now close early and issue water-break reminders as high heat continues.

More than 350 athletes will race in three sprint events at TriWalloon 2026 on Saturday, July 18 at Legacy Marina; race proceeds benefit Bridge Street Ministries.

Milestone athlete Lindsay Arthurs is set to make history as the first autistic competitor with official guide support + tri clubs contest regionally.

Wyatt Danilowicz from Traverse City West High School made MLB history when the Philadelphia Phillies selected him in the eighth round of the draft over the weekend (the first time a player from his school has been chosen).

Red Drive Concert Series

5:30-7:30 p.m. — Left Foot Charley — Free entry — Enjoy a free community concert featuring Manitou Truckin' Co. with grilled cheese delights and local brews.

Simply Queen Tribute Concert

7:30-10:30 p.m. — City Opera House — Cost info not provided — Experience North America's most adored recreation of Queen with impeccable attention to detail and incredible performance energy.

Pickle Fest: The Sequel

July 24-25 — Cherry Bowl Drive-In Theatre — Entry fee applicable — A briny celebration featuring pickle-themed food, games, and movies under the stars.

Great Lakes 5K

8-8:30 a.m. — Eastern Elementary School — Entry fee varies — Participate in a 5K and kids fun run to support cancer awareness and essential screenings.

Kenosha Kingfish vs. Traverse City Pit Spitters

7:05-10 p.m. — Turtle Creek Stadium — Enjoy $2 hot dogs and $3 beers — Join the fun at a local baseball game with exciting food and drink specials.

Catie Newell Artist Talk

4:00 – 5:30 PM — The Dennos — Free entry — Explore light, perception, and the emotional resonance of objects with architect Catie Newell.

FEI North American Youth Championships

1 p.m. — Flintfields Horse Park — Ticket options vary — Witness top young equestrian athletes compete in an international championship event set in Traverse City.

Ikebana Pop-Up Exhibit

11 a.m. – 4 p.m. — The Dennos — Admission required — Explore unique floral arrangements in the sculpture court and galleries.

ABBA The Concert - ABBA Tribute

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Kresge Auditorium — Starting at $32 — Experience the electric performance of ABBA's greatest hits with joy and nostalgia.