Good morning, Traverse City.

The Out 'n' About column shows how readers' notes extend local stories as the writer recalls his first encounter with Dewey Mummert.

The piece also profiles Ty Schmidt — from the Canadian prairies now living in Oak Park — who inspires community walks and offers local insights.

Today, dangerous cold air settles over Northern Michigan as lake effect snow and gusty winds drive wind chills to -20 to -30 F; temperatures remain near freezing and residents are urged to dress warmly.

Saturday promises slight improvement with milder temperatures and southerly winds.

Before sunrise, a dedicated TART Trails crew (Jonny Tornga and Dana Pflughoeft) is grooming winter trails on the Vasa Pathway to ensure quality classic and skate skiing for local enthusiasts.

Local leaders presented a unified strategy for ending homelessness that uses every available service and funding source instead of quick fixes.

The plan aims to prevent chronic homelessness in Northwest Michigan (focusing on lasting change).

City commissioners delayed plans to redevelop the parking lot at Cass and State streets — choosing to review proposals for another city property today.

Homestretch Nonprofit Housing still lacks financing and has requested a new proposal to secure state tax credits.

Contractors will begin building abatement and demolition at 120 and 122 W.

State St starting Jan. 26 (weather permitting), with demolition set for the week of Feb.2 and the Fire Department using the sites for training; Lot P parking and the north sidewalk of the 100 block will remain closed while Lot W also closes until the project is complete.

Ice Wine Festival

11 a.m.-5 p.m. — Chateau Chantal Winery and Inn — Free entry — Enjoy wine tastings, an ice sculpture luge, and outdoor activities like snowshoeing and S’mores.

Left Foot Charley Wine Dinner

6-11:59 p.m. — Modern Bird — Check website for pricing — Indulge in a five-course meal featuring exquisite wines from Left Foot Charley with winemaker Bryan Ulbrich.

An Evening with T.J. Klune

7-8:30 p.m. — City Opera House — Tickets from $21 — Celebrate captivating storytelling with bestselling author T.J. Klune, known for his rich fictional worlds.

Singer Songwriters Showcase

7-9 p.m. — City Opera House — $25, $20, Students $10 — Experience original songs from talented singer-songwriter students and the Popular Music Ensemble.

Tai Chi with Josh

12-1 p.m. — East Bay Branch Library — Free entry — Discover the gentle art of Tai Chi in a community-friendly setting.

Alluvion Jazz Series: Bill Sears Quintet

7-9:30 p.m. — The Alluvion — Ticket info available — Experience a deep jazz night featuring the phenomenal Bill Sears and his quintet.

Antrim Writers Series - Poetry Writing Workshop

1-3 p.m. — Grass River Natural Area — $10 — Experiment with words during an engaging poetry workshop with Teresa Scollon.

Puppy Pals LIVE

2-4 p.m. — City Opera House — Family-friendly fun — Enjoy an action-packed show featuring rescued dogs performing spectacular stunts.