Good morning, Bay City.

Bay City officials mailed letters to neighbors on Chilson Avenue warning that Halloween display posts on public right-of-way must be removed by October 3 or they will face a $100 daily fee—residents must secure permits and proper insurance.

Local businesses are covering permit fees and insurance to help keep the community tradition alive.

A special prosecutor said no criminal charges will be brought against Saginaw County Animal Control staff after a probe found there was not enough proof that shelter staff deliberately left two dogs to suffer broken bones—both dogs later received treatment and are doing fine.

Lawmakers reached an agreement on a state school aid budget with Governor Whitmer, the house speaker, and senate majority leader nearly three months behind schedule to avoid a government shutdown.

Governor Whitmer will sign the plan by October 1 so districts will get state funds for payroll, supplies, and services on October 20.

Recent measurements show that the Great Lakes are losing water as evaporation remains high and rainfall is below average in the Michigan and Huron region.

Forecasts indicate that warm water and cool air — which speed up evaporation — will keep water levels falling into winter.

Michigan lawmakers have proposed a bipartisan plan to spend $1.5 billion on roads, funding most of it with a new 24% tax on marijuana shops expected to raise $420 million a year—if approved by the House, Senate and governor, the tax will start Jan 1st.

State Rep. David Martin said the Michigan budget framework agreed by Gov. Whitmer, Speaker Hall and Sen. Brinks may soon cut state income taxes on overtime pay, tips and Social Security benefits for 500,000 people and add nearly $2 billion to improve roads — funds drawn from fuel taxes. Lawmakers must pass the bills by Tuesday at 11:59 p.m. to avoid a partial state government shutdown.

At Kearsley Kone, 12 people took on an ice cream sundae challenge that featured a 6.5-pound dessert with 13 scoops, waffles, cookies and candy, and one competitive eater finished it in 29 minutes 44 seconds + the shop will close for the season on Sunday, making this weekend the last chance for visitors to try the challenge.

Conflict De-Escalation Techniques Workshop

6-8 p.m. — Duncan's Outdoor Shop — Registration required — Learn valuable skills to calm conflicts before they escalate.

Bay City State Park Fall Harvest Festival

5:30-6:30 p.m. — Bay City State Park — Cost varies — Celebrate autumn with camping, decorations, and a family-friendly Trick-or-Treating event.

Girls Night Out: Concert for a Cause

6:30-10 p.m. — The Westown Theater — Proceeds benefiting The American Cancer Society — Enjoy a night of diverse music from talented female artists.

Cool2Duel Dueling Pianos

7-9 p.m. — State Theatre — Ticket price not listed — Enjoy an interactive night of fun with classic hits and audience participation.

Permanent Jewelry and Charm Bar Pop-Up Event

11 AM – 5 PM — Fran & Dot Boutique — No appointment necessary — Explore unique permanent jewelry and handmade pieces at this downtown pop-up event.