Marie Curie’s legacy of scientific discovery lives on far from Paris, inspiring innovation in Traverse City.

At Northwestern Michigan College, students explore Great Lakes chemistry and environmental science, following Curie’s passion for the unseen forces that sustain life.

Groundbreaking began in September 2025 on the $28.9 million Freshwater Research & Innovation Center, designed to establish the area as a leader in freshwater science and entrepreneurship.

The center will foster research, support start-ups, and expand the acclaimed Great Lakes Water Studies Institute.

Local schools and nonprofits immerse students in STEM, robotics, and engineering, while NMC’s new Science Symposium connects emerging scientists from area schools.

Families engage in hands-on learning through the Traverse Area District Library’s Makerspace Mondays, reflecting Curie’s belief in cultivating curiosity.

Entrepreneurs advance sustainable manufacturing, and a recent $116,000 grant funds 3D printing technology to transform local construction and workforce skills.

Traverse City’s collaborative spirit mirrors Curie’s, showing that even small communities can ignite remarkable breakthroughs.

🥗 “Smoky Fig & Sweet Potato Autumn Salad with Pistachio Crunch”

This salad fuses roasted comfort with bright, modern flair — caramelized sweet potatoes, fresh figs, and pistachios meet smoky paprika dressing. It’s indulgent yet clean — the kind of dish that looks like art on the table.

Ingredients

• 2 cups baby kale
  
  

• 1 small roasted sweet potato, cubed
  
  

• 3–4 fresh figs, quartered (or dried if out of season)
  
  

• ¼ cup roasted pistachios, roughly chopped
  
  

• 2 tbsp goat cheese or ricotta salata, crumbled
  
  

• 1 tbsp thinly sliced red onion
  
  

• 1 tsp olive oil (for gloss)

Smoky Paprika-Honey Dressing

• 2 tbsp olive oil
  
  

• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  
  

• 1 tsp honey
  
  

• ¼ tsp smoked paprika
  
  

• ¼ tsp Dijon mustard
  
  

• Pinch of salt + cracked pepper
  
  

Whisk until velvety and slightly tangy.

Why It Works

This salad feels like fall on a plate — the smoky sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with ripe figs and the crunch of pistachios. The paprika dressing adds subtle warmth and color contrast.

It’s both elegant enough for entertaining and grounding enough for a quiet, soulful lunch.

In 1952, moviegoers were captivated as Bwana Devil launched the 3D film era, making cinematic illusions leap into reality.

Today in Traverse City, innovation continues as digital creators and storytellers reimagine what’s possible.

From Northwestern Michigan College students exploring 3D modeling to tech entrepreneurs developing virtual tourism experiences, the city has become a beacon for creative progress.

This inventive energy will shine at the Fresh Coast Film Festival: Traverse City from April 30 to May 3, 2026, where films will showcase adventure, conservation, and the latest in immersive technology.

Screenings at City Opera House and The Alluvion will connect audiences with thought-provoking panels and interactive exhibits.

The boundary-pushing spirit of 3D cinema lives on, as Traverse City’s modern creators use AI, AR, and virtual production to transform the art of storytelling.

Here on the bay, imagination is not just welcomed—it’s redefining what’s real.

Quote Of The Day

"Life is like a camera. Focus on what's important, capture the good times, develop from the negatives, and if things don't work out, take another shot."

Susan B. Anthony’s bold act of voting in 1872 sparked a movement for women’s rights and equality, a legacy that still inspires communities today.

Traverse City channels that same spirit of civic engagement and resilience as it embraces fresh opportunities for growth and connection.

The launch of the East Side Placemaking Project, or ‘Social District,’ welcomes residents to gather in new communal spaces for the 2025 season.

With its forward-looking Strategic Action Plan through 2030, the city outlines a strong, sustainable future.

Major steps, like the sale of a 49-acre Traverse City Light & Power property to Livwell Homes, LLC, pave the way for innovative, mixed-housing neighborhoods built on electrification goals.

Recognition as a CDBG Entitlement Community further boosts Traverse City’s efforts to set priorities and direct resources where they’re needed most.

Through these efforts, the community continues to turn vision into action, united in the enduring art of civic participation.

Secret Little Hack

Focus on creating personalized and engaging content that resonates with your local audience to increase open rates and drive more responses.

Interesting Facts

Traverse City’s entrepreneurial energy continues to shape the local economy, with small businesses thriving on innovation and resilience.

Boosted by recent infrastructure upgrades, accessibility has greatly improved. The $24.7 million US-31/M-72 redevelopment finished early in October 2024, creating smoother connections for residents and visitors.

The TART Bayfront Improvement and Extension Project has further opened up non-motorized pathways, linking popular spots like Sunset Park and the Senior Center, and making Traverse City even more walkable.

New ventures are building on this momentum. A 140-room luxury boutique hotel planned for West Front Street will welcome guests in early 2027, adding fresh energy to local commerce.

Community support is central to this growth. Traverse Connect’s Business and Community Achievement Awards debuted in March 2024, celebrating outstanding businesses and emerging leaders.

Even during hardships, local solidarity shines, as seen when Flat Cap Ventures hosted a pop-up market to help businesses weather road construction challenges.

Traverse City’s small businesses remain a powerful symbol of the community’s collaborative and innovative spirit.

Secret Little Hack

Plan your newsletters ahead of time and create a content calendar to ensure consistent and timely communication with your audience.

As November arrives, Traverse City comes alive with festive energy and cultural celebrations.

The excitement begins on November 8 with the Children's Book Festival at City Opera House, offering families a chance to meet acclaimed authors and enjoy live performances, all for free.

From November 7 to 15, Beer Week invites locals and visitors to explore area breweries and restaurants on a self-guided adventure, highlighting the innovation of Traverse City’s craft beverage community.

On November 15, the spirited Flapjack & Flannel Festival at Timber Ridge Resort features local drinks, pancake feasts, live music, and a thrilling lumberjack show—encouraging everyone to don their coziest flannel.

The magic continues November 22 with the beloved Light Parade on Front Street, where twinkling floats and joyful music bring neighbors together.

Each event showcases the unity and resilience that set Traverse City apart, wrapping the season in warmth and community pride.

Tip of The Day

Don't forget to include local event listings in your newsletter to keep your readers informed and engaged with their community!