Good morning, Traverse City.

The Cadillac Area Habitat for Humanity launched a new home repair program to help local homeowners with essential repairs in the Cadillac area.

The initiative will improve living conditions for households in need.

Travel numbers at Cherry Capital Airport slowed in November due to an extended federal government shutdown but still reached records with 50,905 passengers — up 4.1% from last November, according to the Northwest Regional Airport Authority Board's monthly report.

Executive Director Gina Aranki of Child and Family Services announced she will retire in 2026 after 25 years in leadership, leaving an agency that has expanded its programs and built trust among families in northern Lower Michigan (her departure marks a new chapter in community service).

Traverse City New Year's Eve CherryT Ball Drop

10:30 PM – 12:30 AM — Downtown Traverse City Real Estate — Ticket info available online — Celebrate the New Year with a giant cherry drop and fireworks in the heart of the Cherry Capital.

New Year, New Garden: Landscape Design Workshop

10 AM - 2 PM — The Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park — Cost not specified — Enhance your gardening skills in this immersive two-day workshop led by expert Matthew Ross.

Frozen Foot Race

9:30 AM – 12:00 PM — Eastern Elementary School — Entry fee applicable — Kick off the 2026 race season with a chilly 5-mile run through Traverse City.

Kevin Rhodes Plays it Forward

7-8:30 p.m. — Traverse City Philharmonic — $100 per ticket — Enjoy a benefit concert featuring Maestro Rhodes while supporting the TC Phil and community programs.