Protest and food drive planned for this Friday
by Sara Swanson Organizers of recent 4-corners protests have announced another peaceful gathering this Friday, May 16, from 4pm to 6pm, on the corner of Main Street and M-52 in downtown Manchester. The flyer states, “Protect our democracy, each other, and our earth.” Like the May 1 event, this will also be a shelf-safe food […]
Save the date for June 21, 2025, Alumni Banquet
by Marsha Chartrand Mark your calendars for the 2025 Manchester Alumni Banquet, scheduled for Saturday, June 21, 2025, at the Manchester Jr/Sr High School Commons. The banquet social hour kicks off at 5pm, with dinner at 6:30pm, followed immediately by the program. This year, attendees will hear responses from the classes celebrating special years, especially […]
Help pull garlic mustard at Iron Creek Preserve
submitted by Pam Bierzynski, Legacy Land Conservancy Curious about Legacy’s newest preserve? Want to get a sneak peek before the property is open to the broader public? Come help pull garlic mustard, and hear about Legacy’s newest preserve acquisition! On May 17 from 10am to noon, Legacy Land Conservancy will be leading a workday at […]
Two native plant sales in our area coming up!

by Sara Swanson In the past we’ve run many articles about native plants, including a guest editorial. Native plants are the plants that were growing here before Europeans arrived and are vital to healthy ecosystems. They are adapted to Michigan’s soils and climate, requiring less water and maintenance. They increase biodiversity by providing food and […]
Desiring and receiving the gift of prayer: St. Mary hosting Oremus
by Bill Kwolek, Manchester’s St. Mary Church Ask yourself the big questions: Why am I here, does God really exist, what happens when I die, what is it like after death? Why do I feel the negatives of loneliness and human weakness—or the positives of truth, meaning, and relationship. Prayer seeks answers to these questions. […]
Library offering Springtime nature journaling and walk in the Leonard Preserve
submitted by Quintessa Gallinat, Manchester District Library Manchester District Library (MDL) invites the community to step into the magic of spring together on Tuesday, May 20! On a guided nature walk specially designed for children and families, explore the beauty of the season while learning to identify wild plants native to Michigan. Participants will meet […]
Make & take paper flower spring wreaths at the library
submitted by Quintessa Gallinat, Manchester District Library Create a decoration to bring the colors of spring into your home, with no watering required, on Friday, May 23. The Manchester District Library (MDL) is hosting a make and take event for spring wreaths using paper flowers at 4PM in the City Room (912 City Road, lower […]
Adult book club to discuss The Backyard Bird Chronicles by Amy Tan
submitted by Quintessa Gallinat, Manchester District Library The Manchester District Library (MDL) Adult Book Club will meet on Wednesday, May 21 to discuss The Backyard Bird Chronicles by Amy Tan. This is the book club’s nature writing selection for the year. Copies of the book are available for on-demand checkout from the library. The meeting […]
59th Annual Manchester Canoe and Kayak Race coming up!

by Sara Swanson The 59th Annual Manchester Canoe & Kayak Race is just around the corner on Sunday, May 18, 2025. This year’s canoe categories include women, men, teen, single, man+woman, adult+child, competition, and corporate challenge. Kayak categories include single woman, single man, single teen, and double kayak. Same-day registration is $30 per person. Children […]
Join a friendly ‘cupcake war‘ at the library
submitted by Quintessa Gallinat, Manchester District Library The Manchester District Library invites you to create a cupcake masterpiece for a fun and friendly competition on Saturday, May 17, at noon in the Village Room. All supplies will be provided, just bring your creativity! Advance registration is required to plan the necessary supplies. Sign up at […]