Daily editionWednesday, October 21st, 2026
Good morning, Manchester.
The 5AM Manchester Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 21st of October.
Community
Churchill’s Garden Center in Exeter announced the death of Oliver, a 19-year-old parrot known for greeting visitors and mimicking laughs — he died Oct. 15 from liver disease and is fondly remembered by patrons.
CitizensCountRead more
Business
Hannaford has restored its online shopping, rewards and flier services after a cybersecurity incident led its parent company to take systems offline last week; the website and app are now back online while the investigation continues.
Union LeaderRead more
Culture
The department of corrections store is offering holiday gifts made from handcrafted woodwork by inmates, and the annual Goldens on the Green dog party will bring local canines together at a nearby park.
Both events provide unique community experiences for Manchester residents.
WMURRead more
Economy
A new Pew Research Center study shows New Hampshire ranked 10th nationwide for high rents pushing poverty, with steep rents contributing to 16 percent of overall poverty and 22 percent of child poverty.
Analysts say zoning reforms could cut these cases by one in five (if local leaders boost housing construction).
WMURRead more
Government
First Congressional District candidates debated at New England College Monday night and clashed over data centers, energy policy, and funding sources (with four more forums planned before Election Day).
Union LeaderRead more
Health
Flu cases are up 5% this early October compared to past seasons.
Health officials advise everyone 6 months and older to get vaccinated soon because the flu shot is 40 to 60% effective at reducing symptoms.
WMURRead more
Dr. Hatem Shoukeir from Catholic Medical Center said colon cancer rates are rising among those under 50, with symptoms like pain, iron deficiency, and weight loss urging early testing.
He added that a family history may prompt doctors to consider lowering the screening age.
WMURRead more
A report from the New Hampshire Fiscal Policy Institute says up to 29,000 residents may lose Medicaid coverage next year due to stricter work rules—requiring documented proof every three months instead of self-reporting every six; the Medicaid director disputes the figure and said sessions are planned to help affected residents with changes starting as early as March.
WMURRead more
Sports
Cole Sulser, a Dartmouth College graduate with degrees in public policy & mechanical engineering, pitched in one playoff game for the Rays and could earn a World Series ring if they beat the Brewers later.
WMURRead more
On Tuesday, the Pistons rallied to win 121-113 over the Celtics in Detroit.
New Hampshire’s Robinson scored 21 points, with Javonte Green and Cade Cunningham adding 19 points and 22 points with eight assists respectively to shift the game.
WMURRead more