Good morning, Traverse City.

The Father Fred Foundation in Traverse City is holding its annual fall food drive as food pantry visits have jumped over 200% since 2021.

It is accepting non-perishable and canned food donations at Tom's Food Market and Oleson's — aiming to collect $35,000 to $40,000 to help with rising costs.

Michigan lawmakers and Gov. Whitmer plan to raise the marijuana wholesale tax—from 16% to 24%—as part of a budget deal aimed at fixing roads and avoiding a government shutdown by October 1.

The new tax is expected to bring in about $420 million a year while small dispensaries warn that higher costs may drive them out of business.

Today, Michigan State Police will enforce the Fail to Move Over Law from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.—troopers will target drivers who do not slow down or move over for stopped emergency vehicles, tow trucks, or road crews while also monitoring for reckless and distracted driving.

Researchers from Western Michigan University and the Michigan Geological Survey are asking lakefront property owners to report white foam on lakes through 2026—samples will be tested for PFAS, chemicals that may pose health risks, and property owners may request test results.

During Sports Overtime Week 5, Traverse City St. Francis beat Kingsley 21-20 to reach a perfect 5-0 record and will host Boyne City next week — Traverse City West won 27-21 over Midland and will play at home against Midland Dow next week.

Other games saw Norway defeat Pickford 44-6, Kalkaska beat Johannesburg-Lewiston 56-0, Charlevoix win 42-0 over Benzie Central, and Ishpeming beat Rudyard 20-14 — setting up additional matchups for next week.

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.

Traverse City Zombie Run

9 AM – 12 PM — Right Brain Brewery — $30 Adults, $25 Students — A spooky 5K run/walk filled with zombies and fun festivities awaits.