Good morning, Traverse City.

James Gudakunst, who has hosted Small Town Christmas on Mill Lane in Pellston for six years, said he must secure permits—by submitting a site plan and special use permit application by October 1—to continue offering free hot chocolate, cookies, and a bonfire for visitors.

If he cannot meet the permit requirements, the tradition may be at risk.

A long stretch of warm, dry late-summer weather helped Northern Michigan vintners rescue their grape crop after a summer of wildfire smoke and humid rains—local winery managers now expect the conditions to remain favorable into early fall.

The tribal human services department from the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians is hosting educational sessions across six counties to help the community openly discuss mental health issues—such as domestic violence, drug addiction and suicide—to reduce stigma and build trust. The program aims to encourage people to seek help and share their experiences.

A tornado touched down in Antrim County on Monday evening, raising Michigan’s tornado count to 31 and making 2025 one of the top five most active years since 1950—images showed it turned into a waterspout as it moved over Torch Lake.

The National Weather Service surveyed the area on Tuesday to gather more details on the storm’s track and strength.

The Grand Traverse County Road Commission warned that several stop signs were knocked down on Sept.

24 — three in southwest Grand Traverse County and seven in northwest Wexford County. Residents are urged to report any downed signs by calling 911 so temporary signs can be set until repairs are made.

EGLE is awarding a $1 million grant to transform two contaminated properties in downtown Traverse City into new housing, commercial space, and parking garages—part of the $57.25 million Grandview Vision Project focused on revitalizing the city's Warehouse District and addressing soil hazards from petroleum, metals, and chlorinated solvents.

Mary Free Bed at Munson Healthcare and Munson Healthcare have partnered to offer a sports injury recovery program—Dr. Grant Carey from the Munson Orthopedic Institute and Josh Thorington, the Director of Rehab, explained that the service helps patients return to active living.

Traverse City St. Francis swept crosstown rival Traverse City Christian in straight sets on September 24 at home—The Gladiators, ranked 8th in Division 3, played competitively in every set.

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.