Good morning, Traverse City.

Chick-fil-A is planning a new restaurant — property work is underway at the intersection of Boon and Plett roads in Haring Township as preliminary paperwork was submitted by the end of 2024 while final details are pending.

Traverse City Food and Wine, which started Wednesday along the waterfront, offers over 80 culinary events for food lovers and families.

Food Network alum Debbie Gold will lead a free cooking demonstration for kids 17 and under, and the festival continues through Sunday.

Traverse City commissioners approved expanded early childhood care options that include microcenters following state rules for home childcare.

Commissioner Heather Shaw said the new model will give families more trusted care choices.

Northwestern Michigan College approved $13.5 million to renovate the Mark and Helen Osterlin Building (with $10 million from the Boardman Lake Campus sale) for a new Student Services Hub on the main campus.

Munson Healthcare Licensed Dietitian Laura McCain offered back-to-school lunch packing tips for parents, suggesting meals include protein, fruits, and vegetables (with options like apple or orange slices) to help children eat quickly during short lunch periods.

Camp Hayo-Went-Ha and the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy signed a conservation agreement that protects 354 acres (including over a mile of Torch Lake frontage) while keeping 150 acres available for future renovations and support an endowment for family access.

John Nelson, the first Grand Traverse Baykeeper, has died.

He walked every mile of the shoreline to spot erosion and development issues – Michael Foley from the Northern Michigan Environmental Action Council said he was a calm, respected advocate for the lakes.

With school starting in less than three weeks, children entering kindergarten must receive a second MMR vaccine dose for a healthy start.

Dr. Joe Santangelo, Munson Healthcare’s Chief Medical, Quality and Safety Officer, stresses the importance of this step.

Traverse City Central will defend its district title as senior quarterback Isaac Turnwald leads the experienced Trojans.

The team will kick off the season on August 28 at Thirlby Field against Novi.