Good morning, Traverse City.

Two fundraising efforts are underway to help Jamaican workers at The Homestead resort near Glen Arbor after Hurricane Melissa damaged homes and stranded some workers.

The campaigns—one crowdfunded by John and Belynda Hudspeth that has raised over $42,000 and another from the Kuras family donating $10,000 to Food For The Poor—support long-term relief and rebuilding efforts.

Local mariners in Traverse City held a ceremony today to honor the crew lost in the wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald fifty years ago.

The event marked a continuing tribute to Great Lakes maritime history.

Northwestern Michigan College held its annual Veterans Day ceremony at the Osterlin Building for campus and community members; the program featured the entrance of the VFW and Metro Guard, a flag-raising, a three-volley salute, and music performances including 'Taps' and 'The Star-Spangled Banner.' Guest speaker Jack Segal (a U.S. Army veteran and retired diplomat) delivered opening remarks (noting that service comes at a high cost).

Last month, Mission Proper coffee shop in Traverse City poured its final cup before closing for good — a new euchre-inspired coffee shop is set to take over the space.

Today, Northwestern Michigan College will host the International Affairs Forum event 'Fighting for Girls’ Education: A Future Where Girls are Free to Learn and Lead' with education rights advocate Ziauddin Yousafzai — father of Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousafzai, as the forum examines the global challenge of 122 million girls being out of school.

Joe Hill: King Sorrow Book Talk

7-8:30 p.m. — City Opera House — Ticket with book purchase — Engage in a chilling conversation about Joe Hill's latest novel, King Sorrow, followed by a Q&A and signing.

Nathan Graham and Noah Guthrie Concert

7:00 – 8:30 p.m. — City Opera House — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an evening of soulful Americana music with two rising stars in the genre.

Traverse City Light Parade

5:30-9 p.m. — Downtown Traverse City Association — Free entry — Celebrate the holiday season with Santa’s arrival, a tree lighting, and a vibrant light parade down Front Street.

Traverse City Turkey Trot

8:45 a.m. — St. Francis High School — Kids under 3 free — Celebrate Thanksgiving with the 18th Annual Turkey Trot featuring a fun 5K run/walk and 5-mile race.

2025 Mac & Cheese Bake-Off

10 AM – 5 PM — Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail — Ticket sales begin October 1st — Experience the ultimate pairing of seasonal wines with inventive Mac & Cheese dishes from top chefs.

Dennos Brand Refresh Presentation and Q&A

2-3 p.m. — Dennos Museum Center — Free entry — Community members gather to learn about the Dennos brand updates and engage in a Q&A session.

Visible Mending Workshop

1-3 p.m. — Dennos Museum Center — Materials provided — Learn creative sewing techniques while mending garments or making soft-sculptures from scrap fabric.

Make Your Own Fresh Holiday Wreath

10 AM – 12 PM — The Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park — Tickets limited — Create a handcrafted wreath using fresh evergreens and natural accents to celebrate the holiday season.

Men's Night Shopping Event

5-9 p.m. — Downtown Traverse City Association — Free entry — A festive shopping night dedicated to men with exclusive holiday deals and surprises.

The Bergamot - A South Shore Christmas

7:30-10:30 p.m. — City Opera House — Cost info not provided — Experience soaring harmonies and heartwarming stories at this beloved Christmas tradition.