A million Michigan workers may lose sick leave guarantee under House plan
by Jordyn Hermani (Bridge Michigan) LANSING — More than 260,000 companies collectively employing 1.2 million Michigan workers would be exempt from a pending paid sick leave mandate under legislation set for a likely vote this week in the state House. A court-ordered law, set to take effect Feb. 21, would require all Michigan companies to provide […]
As Trump threatens ‘sanctuary cities,’ Michigan officials ask: Who, us?
by Ron French (Bridge Michigan) Kalamazoo County Administrator Kevin Catlin questions why his community is often listed as a “sanctuary” for immigrants. He suggests checking with the city of Kalamazoo — perhaps that’s the Kalamazoo some refer to as a sanctuary. But the city says it’s nothing of the sort. It’s the same story in Ingham County […]
Michigan’s EV transition in limbo as climate spending halted
by Kelly House (Bridge Michigan) President Donald Trump has ordered a freeze on all unspent funds from federal climate programs that have funneled billions of dollars to Michigan, sparking uncertainty about impacts to the state’s EV and energy transitions. As part of a wide-ranging effort to dismantle former President Joe Biden’s climate and environmental policies, […]
MCS teachers and administration settle on a contract
by Sara Swanson In November we reported on the stalled contract negotiations between the teachers union, the Manchester Education Association (MEA), and Manchester Community Schools. At the time they’d participated in 18 bargaining sessions and the teachers were reporting that they were not optimistic they would receive an increase to their pay scale. The pay […]
Lila Harvey awarded Michigan Association of Fairs and Exhibitions 2024 Youth Volunteer of the Year
submitted by Manchester Community Fair Several board members, associate members, and spouses of the Manchester Community Fair Board traveled to The Michigan Association of Fairs & Exhibitions’ (MAFE) 140th Annual Convention, January 9–11, 2025, at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel in Grand Rapids Michigan. Attendees of the convention were able to participate in workshops and […]
Manchester Township Board: Phase II of the Watkins Lake Trail partially funded, MTFD gets equipment for fighting EV fires
by Sybil Kolon All board members were present at the January 14 board meeting. Also present were fire chief Bill Scully and several members of the public. Two members of the Washtenaw 100 Club, a nonprofit group that provides support for firefighters and law enforcement officers, presented a check to the Fire Department for $5,582 […]
MAHS offering class on researching your historic home
by Sara Swanson Are you a resident of Washtenaw County and interested in the history of your old house? Do you want to find out who lived there, their families, and how that intertwines with your communities? Manchester Area Historical Society (MAHS) is offering a 2–3-hour class on how to do research on your home […]
2025 Manchester Community Health Fair to offer screenings, free classes, & prizes
submitted by Laura Wohlgemuth, Manchester District Library 2025 is the year to feel ALIVE! Come meet multiple organizations and businesses that provide different opportunities for you to be in your best health for 2025 during the Manchester Community Health Fair hosted by the Manchester District Library located at 912 City Rd. There will also be […]
New year, new opportunities with SRSLY Manchester
submitted by Alexandra Velgos, SRSLY Manchester The start of a new year brings fresh possibilities, renewed energy, and the perfect chance to make a difference in our community. We’re all about supporting our youth, fostering healthy choices, and creating a stronger, safer environment for everyone. As we step into 2025, there’s no better time to […]
Students invited to make valentines for veterans
submitted by the office of Congresswoman Debbie Dingell Congresswoman Debbie Dingell is inviting students to participate in her annual “Valentines for Veterans” project by creating handmade Valentine’s Day cards to be delivered directly to local veterans. Since 2015, students across the region have made hundreds of cards each year to show love and appreciation to […]
