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Morning Buzz: 5 things to know for September 23

Posted at 11:40 AM, Sep 23, 2016
and last updated 2016-09-23 08:45:28-04

1. A construction project on US131 that has caused traffic headaches for drivers in Grand Rapids for months is coming to an end.

The Michigan Department of Transportation says all lanes will reopen on southbound US131 from West River Drive to Leonard Street starting this afternoon. The on-ramp from Turner and Ann Street will open as well.

MDOT began the construction project in April to help alleviate morning congestion by creating a weave lane from the Ann Street on-ramp to the Leonard Street off-ramp.

2. The country's first and only federal and state licensed brewpub to be owned and operated on a college campus is officially opening up today in Grand Rapids.

Fountain Hill Brewery and Peter's Pub are part of Grand Rapids Community College's new craft brewing, packaging, and service operations certificate program.

There's a ribbon cutting ceremony set for the unique brewery at 4:30 p.m.

It will be open for limited hours during GRCC's academic year.

3. Fall is officially here, which means Oktoberfest kicks off in West Michigan.

It's going on at John Ball Park in Grand Rapids today and Saturday from 12 p.m. to 11 p.m.

There will be a lot of authentic German beers and wines, as well as German food, and root beer for the kids.

The fest will also include live music, keg tossing, and stein holding contests!

Admission is $5.

4. Also happening this weekend is the Michigan Apple Fest in downtown Sparta.

It's going on all day Saturday, and includes an artisan craft market, a petting zoo, and cider tasting.

You can also check out the street comedy show, and the glass blowing demos.

5. A rescued bald eagle in Michigan is set to be reintroduced into the wild.

He's going to be set free from the Mackinac Bridge.

In fact, this guy is named Mighty Mac in honor of the bridge.

Back in August, a group called Wings of Wonder spotted him in Manistee County.

It's believed that he had West Nile Virus, but the group says he's now fully recovered, and ready to fly free.

If the weather holds up, Mighty Mac will soar off the bridge on October 4. The Mackinac Bridge authority says the release will be both thrilling and inspiring.