December 2024

Residents and business owners within a five mile radius of downtown Mancelona are invited to decorate their homes or establishments and enter the Window Decorating Contest. First place winners in each category earn $75 in cash and a freshly baked pie from Iron Skillet. Second place winners will be awarded $50 in cash and a $20 gift card to Rooted, Antrim Outfitters or Indulge and the third place winners will receive $25 cash and a loaf of homemade bread from The Hen’s Den. Cash prizes are sponsored by 4Front Credit Union.

Mah Jongg is held every Tuesday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. except for Tuesday, Dec. 24 and 31. People of all skill levels are invited to play. This is free and is sponsored by the Alden District Library and is held at the Helena Township Community Center, 8751 Helena Road. For more information contact 231-331-4318.

On Friday, Dec. 6 at 6:30 p.m. Join Grass River Natural Area and learn about the local owls and their conservation with an introductory presentation and then head out for a night hike in search of these amazing birds. Participants should be comfortable walking outdoors at night for about one mile on uneven trails. Bring a light. Cost is $10 and you must pre-register. No walk in spaces will be available. Register at www.grassriver.org/classes-and-programs. Grass River Natural Area in located at 6500 Alden Highway in Bellaire.

Come see Julia Coleman’s collection of Salt & Pepper Shakers on display at the Alden District Library from Tuesday, Dec. 3 through Monday, Dec. 30. The event is free and the library is located at the Helena Township Community Center, 8751 Helena Road. For more information contact 231-331-4318.