Good morning, Traverse City.

American Red Cross continues its second week of free disaster relief to residents affected by recent flooding and storms across northern Michigan.

Nearly 60 workers and volunteers are assessing home damage and distributing cleanup kits — including bleach, bucket, mop, sponge, and gloves.

Volunteers filled between 2,000 and 2,500 sandbags last Sunday to help protect Cadillac from flooding.

Cherry Grove Fire Rescue said community members delivered the bags to local areas and received food donations from the Salvation Army and county officials.

The Fresh Coast Film Festival in Traverse City will run from April 30 — May 3 and feature dozens of films plus outdoor activities like bike rides and bird watching.

Organized by volunteer Joe Beyer, the event highlights local creators and has already seen some passes sold out.

Traverse City Area Public Schools earned the Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting — the gold standard — for its fiscal report for the year ended June 30, 2025, marking its 21st consecutive national award and underscoring its commitment to transparency.

Michigan State Police urge northern Michigan residents to follow safety precautions when pumping water from flooded basements.

Officials advise turning off electricity safely and using only submersible pumps to reduce the risk of basement collapse and electrocution.

The Traverse City City Commission voted 5-2 Monday night to explore joint occupancy of the 121-year-old Carnegie Building on Sixth Street after heavy public input.

City Manager Benjamin Marentette will meet with both groups to report back at the May 18 meeting and discuss Crooked Tree's lease on May 4.

Traffic resumed on South Airport Road Monday afternoon after flooding had closed the roadway over a week ago.

County officials coordinated with MDOT and announced that the local emergency declaration will expire Monday night while the state declaration remains in effect.

Michigan Works! agencies in Northern Michigan received $3M in Young Professionals grants plus $1M in Young Professionals Plus funds to help local youth aged 14-24 explore careers and gain job skills, following the state's award announced on Monday, Apr.

20.

Michigan State Police advise residents to avoid flooded basements and use submersible pumps when removing water from saturated basements, warning that rapid water removal may cause structural collapse.

Residents should follow the recommended pumping rate and turn off electricity safely to minimize risk in flooded areas.

Earth Day Clothing Swap

11 a.m. - 4 p.m. — Dennos Museum Center — Free entry — Refresh your wardrobe sustainably while enjoying a community clothing and gear swap this Earth Day.

NMC Concert Band Spring Concert

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Milliken Auditorium — $10-$20 — Experience a night filled with vibrant music from talented musicians showcasing their versatility.

The Golden Age of Broadway Concert

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Milliken Auditorium — $10-$20 — Experience a musical journey through the beloved songs of Broadway's Golden Age with the NMC Grand Traverse Chorale.

5th Annual Asian American Pacific Islander Celebration

5-8 p.m. — Dennos Museum Center — Free event — Celebrate culture and community with food, film, and poetry featuring local talents and diverse culinary offerings.

Great Lakes Child Safety Conference

The inaugural Great Lakes Child Safety Conference will take place on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at Traverse City Central High School, beginning at 4:00 p.m. The free conference is presented in collaboration with Northwestern Michigan College (NMC), Northwest Education Services, Rotary, and Traverse City Area Public Schools.

Spring Art Market

10 AM – 4 PM — Dennos Museum Center — Free entry — Engage with over 25 artists showcasing diverse media from painting to ceramics.

Traverse City Repair Cafe

10 AM – 2 PM — Traverse Area District Library — Donation-based — Bring your household items to be repaired by skilled volunteers and help reduce waste.