Residents are invited to tune in to a discussion in support of a publicly-owned power utility following widespread outages.

A public forum will be held tonight with officials regarding the August hexavalent chromium spill in the Huron River.

The University of Michigan is set to host a free virtual event to inform the general public about the rights one has when it comes to abortion.

The 60th Ann Arbor Film Festival will take place online and in person.

The virtual event showcases influential women in Washtenaw County and has named a woman of the year every year since 2009.

Want to know what it takes to be a backyard beekeeper?

Ann Arbor SPARK’s annual Tech Homecoming event is being offered this year as an in-person and a virtual job fair.

AAPS will be hosting virtual interviews this week.

Families can tune in to a livestream on Friday by C.S. Mott Children's Hospital about vaccinating kids ages 5-11 against COVID-19.

See what's on tap this fall with Allison Anastasio's Bite Sized cooking classes.

Virtual event with Yo-Yo Ma, Michigan-based artists and U-M students aimed at healing.

WCC faculty will lead interactive STEAM workshops for local middle schoolers.

Michigan Medicine is currently seeking patient attendants.

Virtual event will aim to help employers better support their workers.

Between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Wednesday, August 4, the agency will talk with community members looking for employment and celebrate National Hiring Week.

The Ark will soon reopen its doors for live shows.

See how you can apply for available full-time positions.

Learn about the wonders of plant-based food in an upcoming local cooking series.

Join GrieveWell and community members during its annual kite festival.

Take a trip back in time as two authors present a lecture on Ann Arbor's iconic restaurants over the years.

A new virtual art exhibit has opened at the University of Michigan highlighting the importance of art in healing and recovery.

Michigan Medicine is on the search for patient attendants at its Ann Arbor hospital.

Graduates from Washtenaw Community College (WCC) are being honored during a three-day event at the Ann Arbor community college this weekend.

The annual Ann Arbor Jewish Film Festival will run through August 24.

Big Hearts for Seniors is free to attend and will feature an evening of storytelling.

The virtual event will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on May 18.

The virtual event will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on May 18.

Registration for the self-guided challenge is now open.

Not many families can say they boast 14 U-M alumni.

AAPS is searching for teachers across multiple disciplines.

U-M's annual Collage Concert will take place virtually on April 18.

The exhibit is now open 24/7 for members of the public.

ANN ARBOR – Now that the vaccination effort against COVID-19 is ramping up, what will the weeks and months ahead look like? This is what infectious disease experts from the University of Michigan School of Public Health and Michigan Medicine will be discussing on a virtual panel on COVID-19 vaccines on April 8 from 9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. The event is free and open to the public, but registration is required. The event will be moderated by Dr. Emily Martin, Associate Professor of Epidemiology at the University of Michigan School of Public Health. Panelists include:Dr. Arnold Monto, Professor of Epidemiology, University of Michigan School of Public HealthDr. Sandro Cinti, Clinical Professor of Infectious Diseases, Michigan Medicine and Ann Arbor VA Health SystemDr. Laraine Washer, Clinical Associate Professor of Infectious Diseases, Michigan MedicineRelated reading:

ANN ARBOR – Washtenaw Community College has expanded its annual Free College Day -- a full day of classes for members of the community of all ages -- to Free College Week. Due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, the school shifted its event online April 12-16. Residents of Washtenaw County and beyond are welcome to “attend” the biannual event that shares student experiences with the broader community. Designed for K-8 and high school students as well as adults and seniors, participants can elect to attend 82 different classes throughout the week. AdFor more information about Washtenaw Community College, visit www.wccnet.edu.

ANN ARBOR – The University of Michigan will stick to a virtual graduation ceremony but allow graduates to at least watch the event on screens inside the football stadium, officials said. The university has been criticized by some parents and students for not having a traditional graduation in the stadium as COVID-19 vaccines become widely available and restrictions on large gatherings are eased. The football stadium now can be opened at 20% capacity, a reason that was given Thursday for opening it to graduates on May 1. The commencement speakers will be elsewhere but visible on screens at the Big House. It’s the second year that a traditional graduation has been canceled at U-M because of the coronavirus.

ANN ARBOR – The Washtenaw Community College Career Transitions department will be holding its annual Spring Career Fair virtually on April 9. Ad“The spring virtual career fair will help to connect the two together. With the career fair being held in a virtual environment, students, alumni and community members can join us from the safety of their homes. We are excited about that.”The Spring Career Fair is one of several events the WCC Career Transitions departments hosts each year, which include a fall job fair and events tailored to those in the business, health care and advanced manufacturing fields. For more information about Washtenaw Community College, visit www.wccnet.edu.

ANN ARBOR – The University of Michigan’s Exhibition of Art by Michigan Prisoners is celebrating 25 years with a virtual gallery due to the ongoing health crisis. The annual Prison Creative Arts Project at U-M is now one of the largest exhibitions by imprisoned artists in the world. (University of Michigan - Prison Created Arts Project)Krinitsky said the organization has wanted to expand to a larger audience for some time. (University of Michigan - Prison Created Arts Project)“It was an extraordinary year, although it was some time ago that we visited,” Hamilton said in a release. “Many PCAP artists rely on sales revenue to purchase art supplies as well as things they need for daily living.

ANN ARBOR – The Guild of Artists & Artisans will be launching its newest all media exhibition, “ANYTHING GOES,” in the Gutman Gallery on Friday. Throughout the open house-style reception, Guild staff will appear on the live feed to discuss the exhibition and to give virtual viewers a tour of the gallery. "Chryslais" by Robin Speth. For more information about the exhibition, upcoming events, scheduling curbside pickup or to shop virtually with gallery staff, visit www.shopgutmangallery.com. AdThe Gutman Gallery is at 118 N. Fourth Ave.

Students march at the 38th annual Take Back the Night Ann Arbor on April 6, 2016 (Photo: Ruby Wallah)ANN ARBOR – The 43rd annual Take Back the Night Ann Arbor rally and march will take place this year on April 1 on the Diag at the University of Michigan. The annual event is focused on raising awareness of sexual violence and supporting survivors. TBTN Ann Arbor masks will be available at no cost. TBTN Ann Arbor T-shirts can be purchased ahead of time at http://tbtnannarbor.org/store. Following the rally, organizers will lead attendees on a march through the streets of Ann Arbor.

ANN ARBOR – The City of Ann Arbor will be holding a virtual open house on Thursday from 4-6 p.m. for residents to learn more about the upcoming restriping and pavement repair project on South Industrial Highway between E. Stadium Blvd. Construction on the project is scheduled to run May 1 through July 31, and there is an opportunity to install continuous bicycle lanes on each side of the corridor. City staff will be on hand to answer questions about site accessibility, the construction schedule, lane narrowing, active transportation, lane reallocation and more. To learn more about the project and to access the event’s link, community members can visit the project’s website at www.a2gov.org/southindustrial. A survey is available on the project site that allows residents to share feedback if they are unable to attend the open house.

ANN ARBOR – The Michigan Theater has partnered with Toyota to add a Diversity Film Series kicking off this month in its Virtual Movie Palace. In celebration of Women’s History Month, the series will start with four films centered around women’s stories during the month of March. AdBelow are the four feature films in the series, with synopses by the Michigan Theater. The film opens virtually on March 12. AdThe film opens virtually on March 26.

ANN ARBOR – This year’s Depression on College Campuses Conference at the University of Michigan will take place virtually on March 9 and 10. With the theme Addressing the Dual Pandemic: The Impact of COVID-19 and Racial Injustice on College Student Mental Health, the event focused on mental health on college campuses aims to highlight challenges students currently face. AdThe conference will present new research findings, programs and and policies that focus on the mental health of college students in the context of current event. Each year, attendees consist of a diverse group, including students, psychiatrists and psychologists, parents, academic advisors, counselors, health educators and more. Certified or Master Certified Health Education Specialists can receive up to 8.5 Category I contact education hours for attending the event.

ANN ARBOR – For the second year, the Ann Arbor Film Festival will take place online due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Now in its 59th year, the Ann Arbor Film Festival is the oldest experimental film festival in North America. This year, the festival will run from March 23-28 and will feature over 100 films in competition. Tickets for individual events start at $2, but the suggested price is $12 to help support the festival. AdThree levels of festival passes give viewers varying access to programming.

ANN ARBOR – Its perhaps one of the silver linings of so much isolation -- fun events streaming straight into your home. The University of Michigan Museum of Natural History is now offering free virtual planetarium programs for the whole family. Starting on Thursday, go to the edge of the solar system, learn about planets and constellations with this fun, educational event. To register, click here. Virtual planetarium show schedule (Thursdays at 4 p.m.):Feb. 25March 4March 11March 18March 25More dates may be added in the future.

Join expert Concordia faculty and healthcare professionals for the “COVID-19 Vaccine Webinar” as they discuss the current status and implications of the vaccines. Poster for CUAA's COVID-19 vaccine webinar on Feb. 23, 2021. COVID-19 Vaccine Webinar with Concordia UniversityFebruary 23 | 11 a.m. Central/12 p.m. EasternACCESS THE ZOOM LINKPanelistsGretchen Jameson, Ed.D. AdJustin Speck, Ph.D. MB (ASCP)Assistant Professor, Concordia University WisconsinDr. Justin Speck is an assistant professor within the School of Arts and Sciences at Concordia University. Director of the Center for Bioethics and Professor, Concordia University WisconsinDr. Kevin Voss is a Professor of Philosophy and Director of the Center for Bioethics at Concordia University Wisconsin.

Join experts from Concordia University Ann Arbor, Wisconsin for a discussion about COVID-19 vaccines.

ANN ARBOR – A new documentary by Washtenaw My Brother’s Keeper will premiere virtually on Sunday through a screening hosted by the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation at 4 p.m. Directed by Fred Culpepper, the film documents the experience of Black men in Washtenaw County, from hopes to conflicts to thoughts and worries. Viewers will get a rare glimpse of openness and vulnerability -- and an open space where young Black men speak freely about their views and experiences, and share with mentors and peers in the community. Reminder that Washtenaw My Brother's Keeper (WMBK) documentary premieres this Sunday virtually at AAACF! AdThe partnership with WMBK has helped to guide AAACF’s EmpowerMENt Fund, which focuses on educational success and the uplifting of young Black men in Washtenaw County.

ANN ARBOR – The Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra will be releasing performances recorded live this season at the Michigan Theater. The performances will feature additional virtual chamber concerts and will be paired with takeout meals from local restaurants. AdA2SO musicians rehearse at the Michigan Theater. (Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra)The symphony also consulted with Washtenaw County Health Department’s medical director Dr. Juan Marquez on how to safely perform during the pandemic. An Ann Arbor native, Joyce, 28, attended Pioneer High School and studied violin with the symphony’s Concertmaster Aaron Berofsky.

ANN ARBOR – Pioneer Theatre Guild’s 19th annual FutureStars talent show will still take place this year, but with a twist. Due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, all performances from the citywide talent search featuring students from Ann Arbor’s public high schools will be going virtual. But to keep the show true to form, all 19 solo performances will be pre-recorded onstage in Pioneer High School’s Schreiber Auditorium -- the event’s venue in years past. Skyline High School senior and second year FutureStars participant Nate Frison said that the transition to virtual practice sessions was very smooth. Skyline High School Senior, Nate Frison, sings “It’s My Life” (Bon Jovi) at FutureStars 2020.

Annual Save A Heart Gala raises funds for congenital heart research, families of patients at U-M's C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital Congenital Heart Center’s annual Save A Heart Gala has gone virtual this year due to the ongoing pandemic. Now in its 28th year, the event raises funds to support congenital heart research and families whose children with life-threatening heart conditions receive treatment at Mott. The Save A Heart Virtual Gala will kick off on Thursday at 7 p.m. The annual campaign coincides with Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Week and American Heart Month in February.

Birds of Chicago perform at U-M's Hill Auditorium at the 41st Ann Arbor Folk Festival on Jan. 27, 2018. (Credit: Andrew Rogers)ANN ARBOR – The National Endowment for the Arts has approved a $10,000 Grants for Arts Projects award for The Ark to support the Ann Arbor Folk Festival. The Ark, an intimate folk music venue in downtown Ann Arbor, has been presenting, preserving and encouraging folk, ethnic and roots music for 55 years. Each year, The Ark presents the Ann Arbor Folk Festival at the end of January in the University of Michigan’s historic Hill Auditorium. “The National Endowment for the Arts is proud to support this project from The Ark,” Arts Endowment Acting Chairman Ann Eilers said in a statement.

ANN ARBOR – The University of Michigan has announced that its Spring Commencement will take place virtually on May 1 at noon. During a normal year, Michigan Stadium would be bustling with graduates, their friends and family. “We still do not know what public health measures will need to be in place in May to hold events like commencement. Students’ individual names will not be read during the virtual event and diplomas will be mailed to their permanent residences. Additionally, President Schlissel announced that any graduates who missed an in-person commencement due to COVID-19 are invited to participate in any commencement ceremony of their choosing in the future.

ANN ARBOR – Arbor Hospice and Hospice of Michigan have partnered to host virtual music therapy sessions for adults and children coping with grief after losing a loved one. Both sessions are free and will feature trained music therapists from Hospice of Michigan and Arbor Hospice. Ad“Research has shown the effectiveness of music therapy even in patients who are resistant to other treatment approaches,” Rachael Lawrence-Lupton, MA, MT-BC and music therapy supervisor for NorthStar Care Community said in a statement. For more information about Hospice of Michigan’s music therapy programs, click here. AdFor more information about Arbor Hospice’s music therapy programs, click here.

ANN ARBOR – United Way of Washtenaw County’s Power of the Purse benefit will be moving online this year due to the coronavirus pandemic. Tickets are now available for the March 10 event that will honor UWWC’s 2021 Woman of the Year, Food Gatherers’ CEO and President, Eileen Spring. Spring was chosen by the Power of the Purse committee for her accomplishments in food system security, innovation and community leadership. To date, the Power of the Purse event has allowed the UWWC Women’s Leadership Initiative to grant over $260,000 for women’s programs in Washtenaw County. Spring has been at the helm of Food Gatherers for 27 years and helped develop the organization’s Food Security Plan, which played an integral role when the coronavirus pandemic hit the area.

ANN ARBOR – The Jewish Federation of Greater Ann Arbor will be moving its annual benefit The Main Event online this year due to the coronavirus pandemic. The virtual cabaret will kick off at 6:30 p.m. on Feb. 21 and will feature performances from Broadway, film and TV star Tovah Feldshuh and Ann Arbor native Ari Axelrod. “This will be an evening of Broadway-caliber entertainment with the goal of supporting Jewish life locally and around the world,” reads the event website. 7-8 p.m. Cabaret with Tovah Feldshuh and Ari Axelrod on YouTube LiveAdDuring the performance, you may choose to enjoy a dinner catered by Amanda’s Kitchen, available for purchase. Beth Israel Congregation is at 2000 Washtenaw Ave.For more information and to purchase tickets, click here.

ANN ARBOR – The Ark announced Monday that its 44th Ann Arbor Folk Festival will be extended by one day for a special tribute to John Prine by various Michigan artists. On Sunday, Jan. 31 at 7 p.m., tune in to the virtual John Prine tribute show, which will feature covers of his classic songs performed by artists with Michigan roots. Read: Jeff Daniels will host this year’s Ann Arbor Folk FestivalStreaming passes ($10) are now on sale for the show, which will be available for unlimited viewing through Feb. 7. John Prine (Credit: Andrew Rogers)“When we say The Ark wouldn’t be what it is today without John Prine, that’s not just a figure of speech,” read a news release by The Ark. “John Prine was the headliner for the very first Ann Arbor Folk Festival in 1976, at a time when the club was deep in debt, and closing the doors was a distinct possibility.

Todd Snider will perform at the virtual Ann Arbor Folk Festival on Saturday, Jan. 30. ANN ARBOR – The Ark announced on Monday a change to the 44th Ann Arbor Folk Festival’s Saturday night lineup. Read: Jeff Daniels will host this year’s Ann Arbor Folk FestivalTicketsMember pricingSingle night passes: $20 livestream only; Silver Bundle $60 livestream + exclusive #arkfamily festival shirt; Gold Bundle $110 all benefits of Silver + festival branded mask; Platinum Bundle $225 all benefits of Gold + festival mug and poster; Benefactor Bundle $450 all benefits of Platinum + snack basket. Public saleSingle night passes: $25 livestream only; Silver Bundle $75 livestream + exclusive #arkfamily festival shirt; Gold Bundle $125 all benefits of Silver + festival branded mask; Platinum Bundle $250 all benefits of Gold + festival mug and poster; Benefactor Bundle $500 all benefits of Platinum + snack basket. There are great ticket bundles that include exclusive Folk Fest merchandise (not available for separate purchase), as well as a livestream only ticket starting at $25.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – Literati Bookstore has announced it will host Bill Gates and Simon Winchester this winter as part of its ongoing virtual events series. Tickets include access to the event and a hardcover copy of the book with a signed bookplate. At 8 p.m. on Feb. 25, Literati will join Seminary Co-op Bookstores for the Chicago Humanities Festival to host Microsoft Co-Founder Bill Gates. In “How to Avoid a Climate Disaster,” Gates outlines a wide-ranging plan for achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions in order to avoid a climate catastrophe. Literati Bookstore is at 124 E. Washington St.

Martin Luther King Jr. spoke at the University of Michigan's Hill Auditorium on November 5, 1962. (Photo courtesy: U-M Bentley Historical Library)ANN ARBOR – The University of Michigan will be holding its annual Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Symposium on Monday morning and this year, the Keynote Memorial Lecture will be delivered by two speakers. Malik Yakini, founder and executive director of the Detroit Black Community Food Security Network (Photo: Joi Ito)Yakini is the co-founder and executive director of the Detroit Black Community Food Security Network. The event is sponsored by the University of Michigan Annual Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

The advertiser paid a fee to promote this sponsored article and may have influenced or authored the content. ANN ARBOR – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) recently re-opened the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) for new borrowers and certain existing PPP borrowers. To help small business owners understand the eligibility requirements and application process, 20Fathoms and Ann Arbor SPARK are cohosting a webinar presented by Robert Scott, Regional Administrator for the SBA. “Robert Scott is the architect of the PPP which has been a lifeline to small businesses. “Hearing the details of the program directly from Scott will help these companies most effectively benefit from the support it can provide.”Event details:

Small business owners in Michigan are invited to attend webinar Thursday evening.

The Ann Arbor Art Center softly reopened on June 30, 2020 after closing its doors to the public in March. Photo courtesy of the Ann Arbor Art Center. ANN ARBOR, Mich. – Join the Ann Arbor Art Center in celebrating art and its yearly cocktail competition, but from the comfort of home. Unlike previous events, the entire fundraiser and cocktail competition will be done online. Each will work with Ann Arbor Distilling Co., who is making and canning each cocktail, to reflect drinks inspired by Ann Arbor Art Center’s A2AC Murals project.

ANN ARBOR – Tired of the uniformness of virtual meetings? That’s why the Leslie Science and Nature Center has begun offering special appearances from its animal ambassadors to lift the virtual meetup experience. An education staff member will accompany each animal ambassador for 15 to 30 minute sessions that include a Q&A. Below are the available animal ambassadors, with descriptions by LSNC:Barred OwlThe Barred Owl is no stranger to online teaching. Enjoy watching the behavior of these laid-back, powerful creatures as they slide their way into your next virtual hang out.

Jeff Daniels will emcee the Ann Arbor Folk Festival for the second time. ANN ARBOR – Actor and musician Jeff Daniels will emcee the 44th Ann Arbor Folk Festival, The Ark announced on Wednesday. Lineup for the 44th Ann Arbor Folk Festival. TicketsMember pricingSingle night passes: $20 livestream only; Silver Bundle $60 livestream + exclusive #arkfamily festival shirt; Gold Bundle $110 all benefits of Silver + festival branded mask; Platinum Bundle $225 all benefits of Gold + festival mug and poster; Benefactor Bundle $450 all benefits of Platinum + snack basket. Public saleSingle night passes: $25 livestream only; Silver Bundle $75 livestream + exclusive #arkfamily festival shirt; Gold Bundle $125 all benefits of Silver + festival branded mask; Platinum Bundle $250 all benefits of Gold + festival mug and poster; Benefactor Bundle $500 all benefits of Platinum + snack basket.

ANN ARBOR – Who remembers field trips? Luckily, University of Michigan’s Matthaei Botanical Gardens staff are organizing virtual field trips for classrooms and groups. Virtual field trips are offered Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Here are the topics and recommended grade levels, according to its website:Roots and Shoots : Explore plants and their needs. For more information or to schedule a field trip, contact Youth Education Coordinator Liz Glynn at lizglynn@umich.edu.

DEXTER, Mich. – Zingerman’s event venue Cornman Farms has announced a series of new virtual winter events that include floral workshops, cooking classes and wine tastings. According to Cornman Farms, each class includes:One pound of Cornman Farms pancake mix (serves 4). Cornman Farms is at 8540 Island Lake Road, Dexter, Michigan. Cornman Farms is at 8540 Island Lake Road, Dexter, Michigan. By the end of the workshop, you’ll have a beautiful centerpiece as well as the skills to create one in the future on your own.”According to Cornman Farms, each ticket includes:One floral kit and one Cornman Farms take-and-bake chocolate runny cake.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – Watch a drag show, play trivia, support small businesses and raise money for frontline workers this New Year’s Eve. From 8 p.m. to midnight on Thursday, Ypsilanti drag group Boylesque will host a New Year’s Eve show benefiting small businesses and frontline workers. All of the proceeds from ticket purchases and tips will be used to buy gift cards to local businesses and given to frontline workers at University of Michigan Hospital and St. Joseph Mercy Hospital Ann Arbor, according to a release. “Our goal here is to put money back into the community and give frontline workers something for all their hard work since this pandemic hit,” the release said. Those who buy a ticket will receive an email the day of the event with a Zoom link and information about games they will play.

ANN ARBOR – The Ark announced on Tuesday that it has added seven additional artists to its two-night Ann Arbor Folk Festival lineup. The 44th annual festival is going virtual this year due to the pandemic and will take place Jan. 29 and 30. The artists added include Kiefer Sutherland, Gina Chavez, Willie Watson and Ron Pope on Friday night’s bill and Crys Matthews, Andrea von Kampen and David Bromberg on Saturday night’s bill. TicketsMember pricingSingle night passes: $20 livestream only; Silver Bundle $60 livestream + exclusive #arkfamily festival shirt; Gold Bundle $110 all benefits of Silver + festival branded mask; Platinum Bundle $225 all benefits of Gold + festival mug and poster; Benefactor Bundle $450 all benefits of Platinum + snack basket. Public saleSingle night passes: $25 livestream only; Silver Bundle $75 livestream + exclusive #arkfamily festival shirt; Gold Bundle $125 all benefits of Silver + festival branded mask; Platinum Bundle $250 all benefits of Gold + festival mug and poster; Benefactor Bundle $500 all benefits of Platinum + snack basket.

ANN ARBOR – The Ark has announced the lineup for the 44th Ann Arbor Folk Festival - At Home to be held on Jan. 29 and 30. Member pricing includes:Single night passes: $20 livestream only; Silver Bundle $60 livestream + exclusive #arkfamily festival shirt; Gold Bundle $110 all benefits of Silver + festival branded mask; Platinum Bundle $225 all benefits of Gold + festival mug and poster; Benefactor Bundle $450 all benefits of Platinum + snack basket. 2-night Series passes: $37.50 livestream only; Silver Series Bundle $115 livestream + 2 exclusive #arkfamily festival shirts; Gold Series Bundle $200 all benefits of Silver Series + 2 festival branded masks; Platinum Series Bundle $400 all benefits of Gold Series + 2 festival mugs and one poster; Benefactor Series Bundle $800 all benefits of Platinum + 2 snack baskets. Public pricing includes:Single night passes: $25 livestream only; Silver Bundle $75 livestream + exclusive #arkfamily festival shirt; Gold Bundle $125 all benefits of Silver + festival branded mask; Platinum Bundle $250 all benefits of Gold + festival mug and poster; Benefactor Bundle $500 all benefits of Platinum + snack basket. 2-night Series passes: $45 livestream only; Silver Series Bundle $135 livestream + 2 exclusive #arkfamily festival shirts; Gold Series Bundle $225 all benefits of Silver Series + 2 festival branded masks; Platinum Series Bundle $450 all benefits of Gold Series + 2 festival mugs and one poster; Benefactor Series Bundle $900 all benefits of Platinum + 2 snack baskets.

ANN ARBOR – The Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra will be streaming its annual Holiday Pops program for free this holiday season. The production will be professionally filmed and recorded at the historic First Presbyterian Church of Ann Arbor, and will feature holiday scenes around town. An alumnus of the Julliard School, Berofsky is a Professor of Violin at the University of Michigan. An Ann Arbor native, Charles Berofsky is currently studying piano as an undergraduate student at the Eastman School of Music. To learn more about sponsorship opportunities through Holiday Pops, contact Jennifer Hale at Jennie@a2so.com.

ANN ARBOR – The Pioneer Theatre Guild will be performing a series of short plays via livestream this weekend and tickets are free. In a year marked by remote learning, the PTG has also adapted the way they perform. The group dedicated the video to the outgoing senior class whose final season was marred by the pandemic. This weekend, the performances are inspired by the Play at Home project -- a national effort by a group of theatre companies to commission a series of short plays for local communities. Even through the Zoom screen, I still felt included and connected to those that were a part of the project.

ANN ARBOR – The Michigan Marching Band performed the first digital show in its 123-year history on Saturday ahead of the Wolverines’ football game against Penn State. The band performed a variety of songs, including “Help!” by The Beatles, “Don’t Back Down” by Bruce Springsteen and “Amazing Grace.”Familiar voice and longtime Michigan Marching Band announcer Carl Grapentine appears throughout the performance. “I want to join the Michigan Marching band in thanking members of our medical community,” said Howard in the video. From musicians to flag team members, to cheerleaders and baton twirlers, the video features scores of the band’s members performing from their dorm rooms, permanent residences, front yards and on the band’s practicing grounds at Elbel Field. And it wouldn’t be a Michigan Band show if the drum major didn’t do that famous backbend on the field at the Big House.

ANN ARBOR – With Thanksgiving just around the corner, Food Gatherers, ann arbor’s 107one and Kroger are preparing for their annual fund drive Rockin’ for the Hungry, which kicks off each year on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving -- also known as Giving Tuesday. The coronavirus pandemic has caused many residents in Washtenaw County to go hungry for the first time in their lives. “While Rockin’ may look different this year, one thing remains the same, no one in our community should go hungry,” Eileen Spring, President and CEO of Food Gatherers said in a statement. This year, Rockin’ for the Hungry aims to virtually raise enough funds for 30,000 emergency food boxes to help keep plates full in the community. Here’s how:Online: www.foodgatherers.org/rockinBy phone: call 734-606-0753By text: text ROCKIN to 734-888-9676By mail: checks made out to Food Gatherers (write Rockin’ in the memo line) can be mailed to PO Box 131037, Ann Arbor, MI 48113Related reading:

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – Musician Laith Al-Saadi will have a free concert on Saturday, Nov. 14, thanks to Ann Arbor’s The Ark and Michigan Theater. As part of the Ark Family Room Series, the 8 p.m. concert can be watched through Facebook Live. Al-Saadi gained national fame when he brought his unique blend of blues and rock to season 10 of NBC’s “The Voice” in 2016. The Nov. 14 concert is free but donations made through a virtual tip jar will support Al-Saadi, the Michigan Theater and The Ark. Over the course of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, The Ark has offered free and paid virtual events to keep music alive, support musical artists and to help audiences connect with their favorite musicians.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – Held every year, the Humane Society of Huron Valley’s Compassionate Feast raises funds to support Ann Arbor area animals in need of adoption, food and veterinary services. This year the event will be online from 7 to 10 p.m. on Nov. 6 with special guest Jeff Corwin. A wildlife conservationist and biologist, Corwin has hosted numerous television shows and documentaries on Animal Planet, Discovery Channel and Travel Channel among others. His ABC series, “Ocean Mysteries with Jeff Corwin” received an Emmy for Outstanding Travel Program. In addition to a virtual talk with Corwin, the 15th annual Compassionate Feast will feature a silent auction and a mixology lesson from Ann Arbor Distilling Company.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – Wild Swan Theater has put together a Halloween-themed variety show for Ann Arbor families. Starting at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, the children’s theater will host its free Halloween Variety Hour through Facebook Live. After the live performance, the show can be watched on the Wild Swan Facebook page. Although the doors to its theater closed due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the Wild Swan entertained audiences in July with a virtual series of 30-minute variety shows. Find out more about Wild Swan Theater here.

ANN ARBOR – The Ann Arbor Art Center is bringing back its distance learning initiatives after the success of its first-ever virtual art camp over the summer. Registration is now open for three new online art camps for Ann Arbor Public Schools' fall, winter and mid-winter breaks. Its fall camp has an autumn theme, its winter camp has a New Year’s theme and its mid-winter camp’s theme is jungle explorers. According to the Ann Arbor Art Center’s website, each three-day virtual camp includes:3 Virtual Art Camp sessions featuring 1 project per session. ArtBoxes will contain most supplies needed for the virtual art camp projects.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – Starting Friday, Edgefest is returning to Ann Arbor for its 24th year with a schedule of six virtual shows. Originally planned as a four-day event to take place this month, the annual celebration of music was transformed into a series of virtual concerts. In lieu of tickets, audiences are encouraged to donate to Edgefest organizer, Kerrytown Concert House, an Ann Arbor nonprofit concert venue. Following this year’s original brass theme of “Partial to the Edge,” each concert features artists and musicians from southeast Michigan and around the US. The 25th Edgefest is anticipated to take place in October 2021.

ANN ARBOR – The Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra will be performing a seasonal “Halloween Hauntcert” on Friday, Oct. 30. The virtual event comes with a four-course curbside pick up meal from The Ravens Club. The event will also feature themed poetry readings by Thomas Blaske, including Edgar Allan Poe’s famed “The Raven.”✉ Like what you’re reading? To see the menu for the evening and to purchase tickets, click here. Happy Halloween!

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – The Neutral Zone is looking for teen musicians to perform at its pre-Halloween virtual event. Musicians can submit their original music for the opportunity to play during the Who Ate My Spooky Snacks live stream event on Friday, Oct. 30. Applications are open to high school-aged musicians and all genres of music. Performers will play in their own spaces and will need a device and strong internet connection for their performances. Community members with questions can email bethanni@neutral-zone.org or call 734-545-6869.

The Ann Arbor Art Center has opened up registration for its fall schedule of virtual art classes. Classes and workshops range from creative collage creation to botanical illustrations to Gouache painting and are intended for aspiring artists of all ages. Intro to WatercolorWednesdays, Oct. 21 - Dec. 2Participants will learn about mixing, color theory and perspective among other things. Acrylic Painting for BeginnersThursdays, Oct. 22 - Dec. 3Community members new to acrylic painting will learn the foundations of painting, tone, shading and techniques. Painting with TextureThursdays, Nov. 19 - Dec. 17A 4-week class, students will explore incorporating texture into their painting by experimenting with techniques.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – Ann Arbor’s independent Literati Bookstore will host acclaimed authors Margaret Atwood and Roxane Gay as part of its At Home with Literati event series. Known for its in-person events, the downtown business pivoted to virtual events after closing the doors to its bookstore on March 13 due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Literati has connected over 200 authors to hungry readers through its virtual events. Books and merchandise can be bought online through the Literati Bookstore website. Related:Small Biz Saturday: Ann Arbor’s Literati Bookstore goes virtual, keeps local charm

ANN ARBOR – The University of Michigan’s University Musical Society and Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy will be hosting a free, interactive event with Trevor Noah, host of The Daily Show, on Tuesday. The event is open to members of the U-M community as well as supporters and event attendees of UMS and the Ford School. The discussion with the outspoken comedian and author will be moderated by Michael Barr, Dean of the Ford School of Public Policy, with questions from U-M students. “U-M and Ford School students care deeply about our democracy and about the urgent work of building a racially just society,” Dean Barr said in a statement. “I’m excited to host this conversation between our students and the brilliant Trevor Noah, who speaks with such honesty and clarity about racism, social movements, and public policy.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – Ypsilanti-based LoanSense has partnered with loan officer JoJo Dries to help community members learn how their student loans are preventing them from qualifying for a home loan. At noon on Oct. 22, individuals can attend the free “When your Student Loans Disqualify you from a Home Loan: Answers and Solutions” webinar to figure out how student loans impact homeownership. The webinar will be part seminar, part Q&A session so attendees are encouraged to bring questions. “As a loan officer, I am always looking for new ways to help my clients. LoanSense has been using customized solutions to help student loan borrowers qualify for mortgages by acting as a personalized student loan advisor.

ANN ARBOR – The Ann Arbor Film Festival announced it has extended its call for entries for the 59th festival until Oct. 15. In order to welcome more diverse voices to its lineup, the festival is offering a $20 submission fee discount for BIPOC filmmakers -- the same discount it offers its alumni. According to its website, AAFF seeks films and videos that “demonstrate a high regard for the moving image as an experimental art form, no matter the genre." Work must have been completed within the last three years, and works in progress are juried in the same pool as other entries. Feature submissions are $70 per film and shorts submissions are $60 per film.

ANN ARBOR – The city of Ann Arbor will be hosting workshop for floodplain property owners on Zoom on Thursday, Oct. 8 from 5-7 p.m. The event will cover a flood zone mapping demonstration, proposed ordinance changes under consideration for properties in the floodplain and a Q&A session. Instructions on how to join the session, from the city’s website:To join from a PC, Mac, iPad, iPhone or Android device please use this link . Passcode: 004857To join by phone dial (for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location): US: 206.337 9723 or 213.338.8477 or 877.853.5247 (Toll Free) or 888.788.0099 (Toll Free). For those who would like to request accommodations, including sign language interpreters, contact the City Clerk’s office at 734-794-6140 or email cityclerk@a2gov.org.

ANN ARBOR – Akshara, an Ann Arbor-based Indian arts organization, will present its annual Rasa Festival virtually for the first time in October. Each weekend throughout the month, Indian-inspired multi-arts performances will be released on the organization’s Facebook and YouTube channels. “This year, so much is different around us, yet the process of making art and its presentation has had to adapt, like everything else," said Akshara’s artistic director Sreyashi Dey in a statement. "We have had to migrate to virtual platforms to reach our audiences. All performances will premiere on the Akshara YouTube channel and Facebook page from 11 a.m. to noon during the festival.

After the Ann Arbor Folk Festival, the Fall Fundraiser is The Ark’s second largest fundraiser each year. Tickets $35 and up include a limited edition T-shirt from the event. Silver - $100Includes one livestream pass (only one pass necessary per household), exclusive, limited edition WB3/Ark #ArkFamily T-shirt. Bronze - $35Includes one livestream pass (only one pass necessary per household), limited edition WB3/Ark #ArkFamily T-shirt. Livestream-only pass - $10Includes one livestream pass (only one pass necessary per household).

ANN ARBOR – Ann Arbor SPARK will host the second annual Women in Tech event on Wednesday, Sept. 23. (Ann Arbor SPARK)Dr. Lauren Bigelow is the executive director of Traverse City-based economic development organization 20Fathoms. Women in Tech is part of Ann Arbor SPARK’s a2Tech360 program, featuring seven days of 16 inspiring events showcasing Ann Arbor’s spirit of innovation to the world. a2Tech360 is sponsored by KLA and the Ann Arbor Ypsilanti SmartZone/ Local Development Finance Authority. Women in Tech is a free event, but registration is required.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. Helping employees thrive while coping with the stressors of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic was the theme of the University of Michigan Depression Centers latest conference. Held on Wednesday, Aug. 19 through Zoom, the Workplace Mental Health Conference discussed many ways employers can help their workers in managing their mental health. Attendees were given tips on managing depressed workers, designing mentally healthy workspaces and psychologically safe work, and equipping managers to effectively support employees during and after the pandemic. The conference was tailored to assist employers and businesses as rates of depression, anxiety and alcohol abuse have increased due to the pandemic. Learn more about the U-M Depression Center here.

ANN ARBOR Although the traditional Ann Arbor 4th of July Parade has been canceled this year due to health concerns, the Ann Arbor Jaycees have pivoted to a virtual event. The deadline for submissions has been extended to Wednesday, June 24, and residents are asked to submit family-friendly content. Anyone who participates is asked to send in photos or videos of their creations. To submit photos or videos, click here. Follow updates on how to stream the virtual parade on July 4th on the Ann Arbor Jaycees Facebook page and on the groups event website.