Good morning, Traverse City.

Business owners near the 7-mile US-31 construction project say they are seeing fewer passersby yet loyal customers still make the extra drive; Oaky's Tavern and TCH Gear have put up signs—letting drivers know their businesses are open and a safer road will come when work finishes next year.

Northwestern Michigan College’s University Partners is hosting an open house today from 3—5 p.m. at the James Beckett Building on the Front Street Campus to mark its new location that offers easier access and support for students.

Representatives from Central Michigan University, Davenport University, Ferris State University, Grand Valley State University and Michigan State’s Institute of Agricultural Technology will discuss how new plans improve degree pathways.

During the last city commissioners meeting, Interim City Manager Benjamin Marentette received overwhelmingly positive feedback while noting concerns about overworking himself.

He said he set clear boundaries using a leadership coach and will propose a multi-year budget forecast next year — a move meant to bring steady leadership to the organization.

The pedestrian bridge at Keith Charters Traverse City State Park was removed Saturday at 6 p.m. as part of an $8.5M transformation after a truck struck it in July; the DNR is adding a full traffic light for safer crossings and will work with lawmakers to secure funds for a new ADA-compliant bridge—its location and timeline are not yet set.

Munson Healthcare Paul Oliver Memorial Hospital received a $109,000 grant from the Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation's Anchor and Heart Endowment to upgrade its long-term care room—and to improve Pyxis software, lobby spaces, emergency furniture, and BiPAP solutions for safer patient transport.

The Grand Traverse County Health Department confirmed that a bat found in a local residence tested positive for rabies after possible human contact.

Exposed individuals are receiving post-exposure care and officials urge residents to avoid handling bats—using proper precautions to secure their homes.

Twenty area high school cross country teams have been ranked in the latest state standings released, showing strong local competition among the teams.

The ranking will set the stage for upcoming meets — promising increased excitement among local fans.

Winchell set a new kills record for NCMC as the volleyball team swept two matches last week in Petoskey—marking his career-high performance.

At a family reunion on Saturday in Elk Rapids, relatives from West Catholic played a spontaneous soccer match — uniting family members through friendly competition.

The informal game brought everyone together and highlighted strong family bonds.

YMCA Classics Under the Lights

6-9 p.m. — Turtle Creek Stadium — Free entry — Enjoy classic cars under the lights with live music and a chance to win in raffles.

TCLEG Fall Family Fest

4:30-6:30 p.m. — Mt. Holiday — Free entry — Enjoy family-friendly activities and support a local clinic in a beautiful outdoor setting.

Live Music Sundays at Suttons Bay Ciders

5:30-8 p.m. — Suttons Bay Ciders — Enjoy local talent — Relax with cider while listening to the melodic sounds of Chris Smith.

Uncork Up North

6-10 p.m. — Hagerty Insurance Agency — Enjoy sampling wines and exquisite local flavors in a chic atmosphere.

October Outdoor Craft and Vendor Show

10 AM – 3 PM — The Village at Grand Traverse Commons — Free entry — Enjoy a day of shopping on the historic front lawn with local vendors.

Currents of Thought: Ice, Water, and Interdisciplinary Insight

5-6 p.m. — Dennos Museum Center — Limited to 55 attendees — Explore the intersection of art and science in understanding changing water landscapes.

Upper-Midwest Log & Timber Home Design-Build Expo

1-7 p.m. — Grand Traverse Resort and Spa — Tickets available online or at the door — Discover expert advice and innovative products for your log and timber home project.

Apple Pressing Day

12-4 p.m. — Farm Club: Restaurant, Farm Market & Brewery — Cost varies — Celebrate the harvest with apple pressing, tastings of over 20 apple varieties, hot cider, and delicious treats.

NMC Concert Band Jazz Standards Concert

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Milliken Auditorium — Adults: $15, Seniors/Students: $10 — Experience a delightful evening with the NMC Concert Band performing timeless Jazz standards.

Mitch Albom Book Signing and Discussion

7 p.m. — City Opera House — Ticket includes a copy of Twice — Engage with Mitch Albom as he explores love and second chances in his latest novel.