Good morning, Marquette.

Labor Day weekend will see heavy traffic on Upper Michigan highways as over 20,000 cars are expected each day and the Mackinac Bridge will be closed to private vehicles from 6:30 a.m. to noon, with Friday and Sunday experiencing peak volumes.

AAA advises drivers to check their vehicles before leaving—ensuring tires, brakes, and fluids are in order.

Northern Michigan University welcomed thousands of returning students today with its second annual Fall Festival—held on the Northern Center lawn—where clubs, financial aid details, employment opportunities, and free handouts were offered.

Student leader Cassidy Gibson said NMU is now beginning the search for a new president and urging students to get involved in the process.

The Marquette City Commission approved a new 20-year tax plan for a building at 401 W.

Washington St. that will house two commercial spaces and 11 residential units, with nine set as attainable housing for income-qualified households, and the project now awaits review by the planning commission.

On Monday, BioLife Plasma Services on Hawley Street in Marquette closed permanently—donors can switch their home center but must travel to the nearest locations in Lower Michigan and Wisconsin.

UP Health System—Marquette and the Michigan Nurses Association reached a tentative contract agreement after months of talks that will boost nurse wages by 18.75% over four years, add a joint staffing review committee, and keep current health insurance.

Union members will vote on the deal on Sept. 4 and 5 while MAST workers begin new talks on Sept. 2 and 3.

On Sunday morning, after a 17‑hour meeting, UPHS Marquette nurses reached a tentative contract that raises wages, keeps their current health insurance and fixes staffing issues (a union vote is set for September 4 and 5) while talks for ancillary staff continue.

Marquette tests found lead levels in tap water at 19 parts per billion due to lead soldering on copper pipes (water left too long in plumbing increases the risk), so customers are advised to run cold water for drinking, cooking, and making baby formula.

The city will test water every six months until levels drop below the 12 parts per billion action level.

Adrian and Meredith Live Performance

8 PM — Ore Dock Brewing Co. — $10 — Experience gritty vocals and fiery fiddling in a night of eclectic music.

Pigeon Hill Tap Night

6-9 p.m. — Stucko's Pub & Grill — Cost unknown — Celebrate great beer from Pigeon Hill Brewing while enjoying good company.

Live Music Night with Babe Report, 44Acres, and Bimbo

8-11 p.m. — Ore Dock Brewing Co. — $5 Cover — Experience a vibrant music night featuring local bands in a beloved brewery setting.

Household Hazardous Waste Collection

3-7 p.m. — Marquette County Solid Waste Management Authority — Free drop-off — Safely dispose of hazardous waste and contribute to environmental protection efforts.

Anna p.s. Concert at Drifa Brewing

6 PM – 12 AM — Drífa Brewing Company — $10 cover charge — Enjoy live Indie Folk music from Anna p.s. as they showcase their latest album.

The Go Rounds Live Concert

8 PM – 2 AM — Ore Dock Brewing Co. — $15 Student / $18 General Admission — Experience the mind-bending sounds of The Go Rounds blending indie, psych-pop, and twang-rock.

Blackrocks Oktoberfest Celebration

4 PM – 3 AM — 424 N 3rd St, Marquette, MI — Free entry — Celebrate Oktoberfest with German music, food vendors, and stein competitions while dressed in traditional attire.

Grateful Dead Tribute Sunday Funday

3-5 p.m. — Ore Dock Brewing Co. — $10 Admission — Enjoy a lively afternoon with Another One performing classic Grateful Dead tunes and great craft beer.