Almanac

The National Writers Series is thrilled to welcome Mary Roach back to the City Opera House on September 23rd to discuss her newest book, “Replaceable You: Adventures in Human Anatomy,” an investigation into the wondrous and cutting-edge field of regenerative medicine.

Rich with humor and lucid detail, “Replaceable You” dives into the exciting and rapidly developing world of medical possibility while balancing the real and difficult questions faced by patients and doctors every day. Through interviews with patients, physicians, pathologists, engineers, and scientists, Roach immerses readers in the quest to build a new you.

“We are all replaceable to some degree or another . . . with the exception of Mary Roach. There is no one and nothing like her—singular, bizarre, dedicated, passionate, fascinating. Her writing traffics at the unusual intersection of science, storytelling, and humor …. and no one does it as masterfully or consistently as she.” – Jason Alexander, actor/director

Roach will be joined by guest host and #1 New York Times best-selling author and NWS co-founder Doug Stanton. The event will begin at 7 PM and includes Q&A and an author signing. You don’t want to miss this one-of-a-kind evening!

Grab in-person or virtual tickets today at nationalwritersseries.org!

Come visit Alden District Library and see Cassie Axtell’s collection of carved elephants.

The display can be viewed during normal library hours:
Monday 9:30a-5p
Tuesday 9:30a-6p
Wednesday 9:30a-5p
Thursday 9:30a-5p
Friday 9:30a-5p
Saturday 9:30a-2p

The library is located at 8751 Helena Rd, Alden, 231-331-4318.

Free Event.

At a later date, a video of the display can be viewed on the library's website, aldenlib.info and look for "On Display" link at left.

Sponsored by Alden District Library, 8751 Helena Rd, Alden.

Come out to help plant native plugs at GTRLC’s Mitchell Creek Meadows Nature Preserve! Volunteers will learn about and take an active part in the Conservancy’s ongoing habitat restoration projects by assisting with planting plugs grown in our very own greenhouse. Species planted will include flowering plants and grasses.

GTRLC will supply tools and gloves. We will teach you everything you need to know about how to properly handle and plant plugs in the ground. No prior experience is necessary! This is a moderately light, family-friendly activity, though volunteers should be prepared for digging and kneeling. Bathrooms and drinking water are both available on site.

Volunteers will be:
Learning about our ongoing restoration and greenhouse projects
Digging and dibble bar usage
Removing and handling native plugs from their containers

Please meet at Mitchell Creek Meadows Nature Preserve by the greenhouse/workshop area.

The Guided Walking History Tours of Traverse City will begin its tenth season on July 9th, following the National Cherry Festival.

The informative tour is about two and a half hours covering a two-mile route. The tours begin at the Perry Hannah Plaza, located at the corner 6th and Union St. near downtown.

There is no charge for the tours, but gratuities for the guides are appreciated. Groups of six or more can schedule tours at other times.

For 2025 our 10:00 AM walking tours begin on Wednesday July 9th and continue daily through October 8th. No reservations are needed, simply arrive by 10:00 AM please.

Learn diverse dance styles and make new friends in a warm and welcoming environment. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an advanced dancer, everyone is invited to join the fun.

Designed for dancers of all ages and skill levels, our Social Dance Classes offer an opportunity to learn new dance styles and enjoy the camaraderie of other dance enthusiasts. Each week, you’ll explore a different dance genre such as salsa, waltz, swing, or tango. Under the guidance of one of Interlochen’s skilled instructors, you’ll learn the steps and techniques—all while connecting with others and gaining confidence on the floor.

The classes emphasize the joy of moving to the music, sharing laughs, and creating memorable moments. Come dance with us and experience the delight of social dancing.

Every Wednesday May 7th, 2025 - Oct 29th, 2025, Except the 3rd Wednesday of each month. Free lessons at 11:30am. Lunch (bring your own) and bridge talk at Noon. ACBL-sanctioned bridge game for $5.00 begins at 12:30pm. For more details, contact Lou Slyker at 248-770-6152 or ljslyker@gmail.com Sponsored by Alden District Library and held at Helena Township Community Center, 8751 Helena Rd, Alden, 231-331-4318.

National Alliance on Mental Illness offers support groups for families and individuals living with a mental health challenge. Groups are confidential, free and no registration is required.

Email info@namigt.org or call 231-944-8448 for more information.

Programs focused on Genealogical issues. This month they will talk about:

Topic to be determined, please check back

Kara Lynch, a Food Safety Educator with MSU Extension, will be here to present information about cottage food law and the best practices around selling honey and maple syrup.

The Great Lakes, Great Plants Symposium returns this fall with a fresh lineup of lectures, tours, and immersive experiences celebrating horticulture, design, and the natural beauty of Northern Michigan. Designed for professionals and plant lovers alike, this two-day symposium includes inspiring talks, a rare plant auction, guided garden tours, and exclusive bonus experiences.

This year’s programming focuses on Gardening in the Midwest, Wild Designs, and Art in the Landscape, offering practical knowledge, innovative ideas, and plenty of inspiration.

To see the full schedule of events and purchase tickets, please visit the ticket link below.