Traverse City is still a small town, or is it?

In this Thanksgiving Day episode, Mike reflects on the holiday, family, and the evolving character of Traverse City. It’s a bittersweet year—his family’s first Thanksgiving without his dad—but also a moment to appreciate traditions, good food, and time spent together.

From recent crime stories to long-standing local quirks, Mike explores whether Traverse City still feels like the small town he grew up in. He shares personal stories, local history, neighborhood breakdowns, and observations about everything from fast food failures to the layout of the airport and high schools.

Topics Covered

Thanksgiving Reflections

Sending well-wishes to listeners celebrating the holiday.

The first Thanksgiving without Mike’s dad and the tradition of leaving an empty chair at the table.

Is Traverse City Still a Small Town?

Recent unusual crime events:

The Walmart stabbing last summer.

A fatal parking-deck shooting involving car break-ins.

An attempted abduction at the Meijer gas station.

Why these big incidents still feel like “small-town news.”