Tree Town businesses and organizations are hosting holiday-themed events, treats, trivia and crafts to help you get in the Valentine’s Day spirit.

Fans can support the event by buying three different types of passes and by cashing in on early-bird rates.

This year, Ann Arbor businesses have deals, discounts, dinner dates, shows and activities planned for couples or friends looking to support the local community.

Registration is now open for virtual, in-person and hybrid winter fitness and wellness courses offered by Rec & Ed.

Sign up for one of 14 free workshops--or all of them--during Washtenaw Community College’s second annual Liberal Arts Week.

The Ann Arbor Jewish Book Festival returns in November with a blend of virtual and in-person programming.

Participants ages 18 and older will learn to express themselves and practice freeing their voice and body in the four-part workshop, YMCA officials said.

On April 23, FLI hopes to raise awareness and money for its after-school programs with a night of virtual trivia.

Job seekers can sign up for both of the event’s two sessions, being held from 10 a.m. to noon and 1-3 p.m.

Between April 4-8, Ann Arbor community members can sign up for more than 60 free classes during Free College Week.

Throughout February Washtenaw Community College is celebrating Black History Month with several free events open to the public.

Natural Area Preservation will conduct controlled burns in natural areas during weekdays between Feb. 17 and May 27 between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m., as weather allows.

Attendees should be ready to interview on the spot and can include a copy of their resume with their registration.

Speakers for the virtual celebration include Washtenaw County Chief Assistant Prosecutor Victoria Burton-Harris, WCC President Dr. Rose B. Bellanca and students from the college.

On Giving Tuesday, held on Nov. 30 this year, the Tree Town nonprofit is hosting musician Gwenyth Hayes on social media for a virtual concert at 7 p.m.

Hosted by the Jewish Community Center of Greater Ann Arbor, the annual celebration of literary talent will run until Thursday, Dec.16, and includes author talks over zoom and a cooking demo.

U-M sets an enrollment record in the 2021-2022 school year.

From a bookstore tour to virtual events, here are four ways bibliophiles can celebrate Ann Arbor's book-loving culture.

While the stigma around mental health is starting to subside, there’s still a desperate need for more resources.

Suicide prevention nonprofit Garrett’s Space is holding its second annual 24-hour livestream fundraiser to support young adults with mental health challenges.

Literati Bookstore will welcome award-winning author Louise Penny on Friday through its virtual At Home with Literati series.

The annual event will kick off at 10 a.m. with a live stream that will last until 9 p.m.

Created for children ages 3-17 experiencing grief and loss, the free one-day camp will take place on Saturday, July 31.

Here's what is happening for Juneteenth around Ann Arbor.

More than 20 family-friendly in-person and virtual events are scheduled from June 1-6 to commemorate the event, highlight sustainability and educate the community.

On Thursday, Ann Arbor Summer Festival (A2SF) announced new summer programming comprised of concerts, interactive performances and new podcast episodes.

The free Glacier Hills Senior Living Community series will provide training and techniques to residents, families and community organizations.

Hosted by Main Street Ann Arbor, the celebration will feature special deals at restaurants and retailers for both in-person, online and curbside shoppers.

The evidence-based program is designed to help reduce fall risk factors by increasing strength and improving balance.

Based in Ann Arbor, the not-for-profit is offering various support programs, including parental grief, dinner groups and its a COVID-19 grief support group.

Starting at 8 p.m. on Friday night, Boylesque Michigan will host a virtual bingo show to raise money for gift cards that will be given to area pharmacy workers.

This year, the annual FoolMoon celebration will take place in downtown Ann Arbor from 6-10 p.m. and in homes around Tree Town.

At 3 p.m. on Wednesday, AAPD will give a free presentation and answer community questions about its 2021 new programs and initiatives.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – Throughout April, fans of downtown Ann Arbor’s Literati Bookstore will be visited over Zoom by internationally-known authors, humorists and beloved food writers. On April 8, the independent bookstore will welcome authors Jenny Lawson and Neil Gaiman. The following week on April 16, Literati will host New York Times bestselling author Jeff VanderMeer and author Kristen Roupenian. The book launches will be hosted by publisher HarperCollins through the virtual events platform Crowdcast. Literati Bookstore is at 124 E. Washington St.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – At 7 p.m. on Monday, Michigan Theater audiences can learn more about four inspiring Ann Arbor chefs. As part of its Women’s Voices series presented by Toyota, Michigan Theater will begin virtual screenings of Her Name is Chef on Friday. The documentary explores the changing culture of the culinary industry through the stories of six female chefs. Virtual screenings cost $12 to rent, $10 for Michigan Theater members and is free for gold members. If rented through the MTF AgileLink streaming platform, 50 percent of proceeds from the film benefit the independent Ann Arbor theater.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – Ann Arbor Community Education and Recreation (Rec & Ed) has joined forces with chef Natalie Marble to offer virtual cooking classes this spring. After moving to Tree Town, Marble founded a recreational cooking school, Ann Arbor Cooks, in 2009 after owning her own catering company in Washington, D.C. She brings 20 years of culinary experience to her virtual classes with Rec & Ed. Community members who enroll in three classes in one registration will receive a discount of $10 off of their total, Rec & Ed said. Registration is now open and can be done through the Rec & Ed website. Cost: $49Fruit Tart Fun: Family Bake-AlongWhen: Saturday, May 8; 10 a.m. to noonCost: $45Gnocchi 101: Cook-AlongWhen: Friday, May 21; 6-8 p.m.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – On Monday, the Ann Arbor Area Transportation Authority (TheRide) will host the first of several virtual meetings to talk to the public about its new service plan. Starting in August, the plan will affect all of TheRide’s bus routes as well as its A-Ride, GoldRide, FlexRide and Night/Holiday services. Changes presented by the proposal include reinstating some routes, adding select weekend services, revising routes to serve different areas and eliminating route variations. Meetings for public feedback will be held this week at noon on Monday and Wednesday, and at 6 p.m. on Tuesday. Additional meetings will be at 6 p.m. on March 30, noon on March 31 and at 6 p.m. on April 1.

From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Wednesday, March 31, Express Employment Professional of Ann Arbor will hold a free virtual job fair. During the fair, job seekers will discuss their work history and job preferences with Express staff. AdThose interested can register for free through the Express Employment Professional of Ann Arbor website. A confirmation email with a link to the virtual job fair will be sent out before the event date, the staffing agency said. Locally owned, the Ann Arbor office said it has helped employed over 35,000 people find employment around Washtenaw County since 2014.

The meal will be provided by Bistro Joe’s and the wine will be from Celani Family Vineyards in Napa Valley. Tati and Jason spoke with Mark Donovan, the Executive Chef at Bistro Joe’s in Birmingham about the upcoming event. Bistro Joe’s is located in the loft above the Papa Joe’s market. AdWhen you pick up your meal from the Rochester or Birmingham Papa Joe’s locations, there will be heating instructions. Bistro Joe’s is located at 34244 Woodward Ave. inside of Papa Joe’s Gourmet Market in Birmingham.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – Make your pet a star and support Ann Arbor’s SafeHouse Center at the same time through the Jelly Bean Jump Up pet photo contest. Until 11 p.m. on Friday, March 5, pet parents around Ann Arbor can submit photos of their favorite furry companion. Submit your favorite pet photo. Pet names will be displayed with their photos, and pet parents can also leave a small blurb about their pet. Submissions are free but community members can help their favorite pet move up in the ranks by buying votes.

“The history of the Michigan Theater is the history of Buffalo; they tell the story of how a community’s perseverance, vision, and loyalty, even in the face of decline, can bring hope and change. At 7 p.m. on Monday, March 1, the independent Ann Arbor theater will host Wall and producer Eric Wojtanik for a Q&A session. Tickets cost $12, $10 for Michigan Theater members and are free for gold members. Fifty percent of film proceeds made through the MTF AgileLink will go to the Ann Arbor independent theater, according to the Michigan Theater website. In 2019, the documentary won an Audience Award at the Buffalo Film Festival and was an official selection of the 2019 Film Festival of Columbus and 2020 Maryland International Film Festival.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – Join Ann Arbor seniors in celebrating Black History Month with a free Motown concert on Friday. Starting at 3 p.m., metro-Detroit Motown tribute band KGB will sing some classics tunes at a virtual concert hosted by Glacier Hills Senior Living Community. “We are excited to virtually bring KGB into our community to celebrate Black History Month,” said Craig Courts, President of Glacier Hills in a release. “Motown music is something people from all over the world can enjoy, but it’s just a little more special to us here in Michigan. AdThose interested in attending the online concert should reach out to Glacier Hills Senior Living Community through Facebook Messager, by 734-913-0730 or by sending an email to krishaun.burns@glacierhills.org.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – In case you missed it, or haven’t looked at a calendar recently, Valentine’s Day is Sunday. Get some sugarBon Bon Bon will have a chocolatey pop-up at Gutman Gallery from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Read: 4 ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day in Ann ArborGo wildOn Sunday evening, cozy up for a unique Valentine’s experience courtesy of Leslie Science & Nature Center. Prove your love by running the two-mile Ann Arbor Chocolate Run, courtesy of Running Fit Downtown Ann Arbor. Proceeds from 826michigan Ann Arbor Robot Supply Co. go to its free student writing programs, which serve over 3,000 school-aged students in Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti and Detroit.

They were really strict about it.”Shirley Kobliner (left) and Harold Kobliner (right) were married for 65 years, 13 of which were spent collecting expressions for their book, "So To Speak: 11,000 Expressions That’ll Knock Your Socks Off." During the free event with Literati, Kobliner will discuss how her parents assembled such a large collection and their process for organizing what they heard into 67 categories. She will also show some of the 351 illustrations in “So to Speak” and then treat audience members to some word games. Ad“So to Speak: 11,000 Expressions That’ll Knock Your Socks Off” is available for $16.99 through Literati, which has hosted over 200 authors at its virtual At Home with Literati event series. Play online word games and learn more about the book at sotospeakbook.com.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – Americana songwriter Chris DuPont is known for deeply personal performances at The Ark and Ann Arbor Summer Fest, but a soon-to-be-released album offers a darker side to his music. “I do try to keep things, more or less, in the family with every record,” DuPont said. AdFor “Floodplains,” DuPont found himself contributing a lot more musically than he has previously, including singing his own background vocals, high notes and piano arrangements. Although darker than his previous music, songs on the new LP were written before things starting shutting down due to the pandemic. That said, DuPont added that he’s curious to see how the music that he has written over the past months will sound like in the future.

A Detroit pizza eatery is offering a Valentine’s Day class on making Vera Pizza Napoletana from your own kitchen. PizzaPlex, located in Southwest Detroit, is offering virtual pizza classes on Feb. 14, from 1 to 2:30 p.m., taking place on Zoom, for $85. Chef Nathan Hannon will go over the fundamentals of pizza making, including how to make your pizza dough fly. Ad“It’s a Valentine’s experience everyone can enjoy, couples, thruples, galentines, families, singles, all are welcome! For those unable to attend the class there will be a version of the gift box for Valentine’s Day available in store, including a pizza kit, a bottle of champagne, fresh flowers, and chocolates for $75 dollars.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – Like many holidays in 2020, Valentine’s Day in 2021 is going to feel different. Listen to nationally-recognized storytellers Lyn Ford, Chetter Galloway, Antonio Rocha and emcee Steve Daut, president of the Ann Arbor Storytellers Guild. Work together to draw a design on a ceramic lidded container in one of Gutman Gallery’s Take & Make: Valentine’s Day Art Box. The Ann Arbor Art Center is offering special Valentine’s Day Art Boxes. AdRead: Melon, bonfires, mass weddings: How Valentine’s Day has been celebrated around the worldGalentine’s DaySwap out Valentines for Galentines.

The annual survey released Monday, June 22, 2020, of U.S. beekeepers found that honeybee colonies are doing better after a bad year. Ann Arbor Backyard Beekeepers (A2B2) is offering beginner and intermediate classes for community members interested in bees and beekeeping. Beginner classes will go over basic bee biology and management, equipment and what to expect during the first year of beekeeping. Intermediate classes are intended for individuals with experience keeping bees through the winter and will go over management strategies, swarm prevention and pest/disease treatment. Learn more about the beginner and intermediate classes or register here at www.a2b2club.org/about-bee-school

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – Get the gang together and win fun prizes at weekly virtual trivia hosted on Zoom by the Michigan Theater. Players can participate on their own or communicate with teammates (outside of the Zoom call) to coordinate answers. Movie buffs and cinema smartypants can win prizes for first and second place, including a Michigan Theater Foundation book or vinyl record and a free film rental through Agile Link. Michigan Theater members can play for free by sending an email to feedback@michtheater.org and asking for a special promo code. Here’s the current schedule:Thursday, Jan 28 - 7 p.m.Friday, Feb. 5 - 7 p.m. - Black Filmmakers EditionFriday, Feb. 12 - 7 p.m. - Romantic Movies EditionFriday, Feb. 19 - 7 p.m.Friday, Feb. 26 - 7 p.m.Sign up through the trivia schedule or learn more about the events and prizes at michtheater.org/trivia/

Present some poetry or listen to an author give a live reading courtesy of Crazy Wisdom Bookstore & Tea Room. With its second-floor tea room currently closed to visitors, the downtown Ann Arbor bookstore has been hosting informal poetry workshops and live readings through Zoom on Wednesday nights. Workshops are held on the second Wednesday of each month and hosted by the Crazy Wisdom Poetry Circle. Held on the fourth Wednesday of the month, live readings introduce audiences to the work of guest authors, essayists and poets. Links to the Zoom rooms are sent out the day of the event, according to the Crazy Wisdom Poetry Circle blog.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – The City of Ann Arbor’s annual Sustainability Forums returns on Thursday with the first of five community discussions on sustainability-related topics. Organized by the Office of Sustainability and Innovations, the monthly forums will be open to the public and held virtually through Zoom. The five discussions will focus on food, green infrastructure, circular economy, waste reduction, energy production and a special topic that has yet to be announced. Each forum directly relates to the city’s A2ZERO sustainability framework to get to carbon neutrality by 2030. Here is the Sustainability Forums schedule and topics:Jan. 25: food and food accessFeb. 24: forestry and green InfrastructureMarch 24: waste reduction and circular economy (tentative)TBD: energy production and useThe last topic and date have not yet been announced.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – The historic Michigan Theater and State Theatre are taking it slow when it comes to reopening. On Thursday, the Michigan Theater Foundation (MTF), which operates both of the downtown Ann Arbor independent theaters, announced that neither theater would fully reopen until April. According to the Michigan Theater’s reopening plan:“The MTF received permission from the State of Michigan to reopen the historic Michigan and State theaters in downtown Ann Arbor on December 21, 2020. For reasons of safety, the MTF team made the conscious decision to delay a full public reopening for three reasons:The rise in the infection rate after the Christmas/New Year holiday. Virtual events and Michigan Theater concessions are also available.

Fundraising isn’t new for the drag troupe, which has been regularly hosting benefit shows for many years, but performing online is. Since then, the group has done over 150 virtual shows. (Austin Moan / Boylesque)Boylesque’s first virtual benefit show, hosted through YouTube, helped raise money for a community member with Multiple sclerosis. Boylesque is the only group to do virtual shows at least three nights a week, according to Black. Over the course of the past 10 months, Boylesque has done themed shows for holidays, monthly benefit shows for Ypsilanti Meals on Wheels and shows for political causes.

Ann Arbor Public Schools Community Education & Recreation (Rec & Ed) can help with that. During its winter term, Rec & Ed is offering a range of virtual fitness and enrichment classes so that community members can remain active and social while at home. It is a key ingredient to ensuring a person’s longevity,” said Rec & Ed fitness and yoga program supervisor Terry McNeely in a release. Adult fitness classes include weight training, cardio drumming, zumba, dance yoga and pilates. Community members can register online at the Rec & Ed website, or by calling 734-994-2300 ext.

(AP Photo/Kathy Willens)NEW YORK – It’s a New Year’s Eve tradition in New York -- the annual Time Square Ball Drop. Each year, millions of eyes from all over the world are focused on the sparkling Waterford Crystal Times Square New Year’s Eve Ball. 2021 Time Square Ball Drop -- how to watch liveNew this year, Jamestown, owner of One Times Square – home of the iconic Ball Drop Celebration – has created a first-of-its-kind virtual New Year’s Eve experience. Lighting and Raising the Times Square New Year’s Eve BallThe celebration begins with the lighting and raising of the New Year’s Eve Ball atop One Times Square. Times Square Confetti Release and Pyrotechnic EffectsThe world-famous New Year’s Eve confetti is released from the rooftops of buildings throughout Times Square creating a celebratory blizzard of colorful confetti as revelers welcome the New Year accompanied by colorful pyrotechnic effects.

(AP Photo/Kathy Willens)NEW YORK – It’s a New Year’s Eve tradition in New York -- the annual Time Square Ball Drop. Each year, millions of eyes from all over the world are focused on the sparkling Waterford Crystal Times Square New Year’s Eve Ball. 2021 Time Square Ball Drop -- how to watch liveNew this year, Jamestown, owner of One Times Square – home of the iconic Ball Drop Celebration – has created a first-of-its-kind virtual New Year’s Eve experience. Lighting and Raising the Times Square New Year’s Eve BallThe celebration begins with the lighting and raising of the New Year’s Eve Ball atop One Times Square. Times Square Confetti Release and Pyrotechnic EffectsThe world-famous New Year’s Eve confetti is released from the rooftops of buildings throughout Times Square creating a celebratory blizzard of colorful confetti as revelers welcome the New Year accompanied by colorful pyrotechnic effects.

GRANADA, SPAIN - JUNE 01: Mari Carmen 79, kisses via videocall her family during her first family visit in DomusVii El Serrallo nursing home on June 01, 2020 in Granada, Spain. The Ann Arbor Senior Center will be hosting a series of virtual events starting in January to help senior residents connect with one another. Virtual TriviaOn the first and third Tuesday of each month, staff at the center will be hosting live trivia via Zoom. Free Lunch Break ClubLike the trivia, the Ann Arbor Senior Center’s Lunch Break Club will be held via Zoom. Here are the weekly topics:Jan. 7: New year, new goalsJan. 14: Welcome to my kitchenJan. 21: Best vacation experienceJan. 28: Let’s doodle togetherThe Ann Arbor Senior Center will be posting future weekly themes on its website and Facebook page.

(AP Photo/Kathy Willens)NEW YORK – It’s a New Year’s Eve tradition in New York -- the annual Time Square Ball Drop. Each year, millions of eyes from all over the world are focused on the sparkling Waterford Crystal Times Square New Year’s Eve Ball. 2021 Time Square Ball Drop -- how to watch liveNew this year, Jamestown, owner of One Times Square – home of the iconic Ball Drop Celebration – has created a first-of-its-kind virtual New Year’s Eve experience. Lighting and Raising the Times Square New Year’s Eve BallThe celebration begins with the lighting and raising of the New Year’s Eve Ball atop One Times Square. Times Square Confetti Release and Pyrotechnic EffectsThe world-famous New Year’s Eve confetti is released from the rooftops of buildings throughout Times Square creating a celebratory blizzard of colorful confetti as revelers welcome the New Year accompanied by colorful pyrotechnic effects.

Workers secure a panel of Waterford crystal triangles on the Times Square New Year's Eve ball, Sunday, Dec. 27, 2020, in New York. 2021 Time Square Ball Drop -- how to watch liveNew this year, Jamestown, owner of One Times Square – home of the iconic Ball Drop Celebration – has created a first-of-its-kind virtual New Year’s Eve experience. Mobile Streaming (FREE):Live stream it in the video player below starting around 6 p.m.Time Square Ball Drop live schedule6:00 p.m. to 6:03 p.m. Lighting and Raising the Times Square New Year’s Eve BallThe celebration begins with the lighting and raising of the New Year’s Eve Ball atop One Times Square. Times Square Confetti Release and Pyrotechnic EffectsThe world-famous New Year’s Eve confetti is released from the rooftops of buildings throughout Times Square creating a celebratory blizzard of colorful confetti as revelers welcome the New Year accompanied by colorful pyrotechnic effects.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – The year is almost over and it’s time to celebrate. Wave away 2020 with a big “buh-bye” with these things to do around Ann Arbor on New Year’s Eve. Cut loose with NOW Studios, new to downtown Ann Arbor, at its free virtual NYE express your mess Eleganza Extravaganza. Join Ann Arbor District Library for a kid-friendly New Year’s Eve Celebration! Print out these coloring pages and games courtesy of City of Ann Arbor Parks and Recreation for some light-hearted fun.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – The Ann Arbor District Library has announced the return of its online community game platform, but with a new name and a few twists. Through the Winter Game, players create an account, solve puzzles, collect codes and earn points all from the comfort of home. Points players accrue during the Winter Game will roll over to the AADL’s 2021 Summer Game 2021, the AADL said. New content will be released until March 12 but players can continue playing until the end of the 2021 Summer Game, according to the AADL. Read: Ann Arbor District Library named five star library for 13th consecutive year𝚃𝚑𝚎 𝚆𝚒𝚗𝚝𝚎𝚛 𝙶𝚊𝚖𝚎 𝚒𝚜 𝙲𝚘𝚖𝚒𝚗𝚐!

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – Illusionist Scott Silven will be back in Ann Arbor this year, but this time his visit is virtual. Hosted by the Ann Arbor Summer Festival, Silven will be performing his new production, The Journey, for six nights in February. Audience members help to construct their own experience during the performance and by responding to email prompts before the show. “Scott is a unique talent who left audiences mesmerized after his 2018 Ann Arbor run. Each ticket for the Feb. 23, 24 and 28 performances cost $46 while tickets for Feb. 25-27 cost $56 each.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – This year, the Ann Arbor Jewish Book Festival has gone virtual for its 33rd festival. Held annually in the fall, the book festival celebrates Jewish authors and their contributions to literature. It is organized by the Jewish Community Center of Ann Arbor and supported by the Jewish Federation of Ann Arbor. Dec. 11Liel Leibovitz, Stephanie Butnick and Mark Oppenheimer, 8-9:30 p.m.Dec. 13Miriam Udel, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.David Schoenbaum, 7-9 p.m.Dec. 14Myla Goldberg, 1-3 p.m.Eshkol Nevo, 4-6 p.m.Dec. 15David Hopen, 1-3 p.m.Sarah Stein, 7-9 p.m.Dec. 16Steven Levy, 7-9 p.m.Dec. 17Esther Safran Foer, 1-3 p.m.Jonathan Sarna, 8-9:30 p.m.Dec. 21Cleo Stiller, 1-3p.m. Andrew Blauner, 7-9 p.m.Dec. 22Uri Adoni, 1-3 p.m.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – Already trying to find the perfect present? Ann Arbor District Library can help. Every year the library system holds its annual Tiny Expo in the lobby of its downtown branch. Starting on Monday, the indie handcraft online expo will bring together more than 50 artists who have sold their wares at the expo previously. Check out crafters representing various arts and disciplines including:apparelfiber artshealth and beautyceramicshome goodsjewelrypaper goodssewn goodstoys and kids itemsLearn more about the handicraft expo through the Tiny Expo website or Facebook page.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – Mark your calendars, the holiday shopping season is coming! During the first three Fridays of December, three downtown area districts are hosting special shopping events to help Ann Arbor’s small businesses and consumers get a jump start on holiday wishlists. Here’s what you need to know:Moonlight MadnessThe annual shopping event in the State Street District will take place across three Fridays this year. More details to be announced through the Festive Fridays website. Special shopping sales include 30% off at The Bo Store; 30% off at Underground Printing and cocktail bundles at Palio, Black Pearl and Chop House.

Four Arab American organizations are partnering for the inaugural Arab Film Fest Collab (AFFC) later this year. The Arab American National Museum (AANM), Arab Film and Media Institute (AFMI), ArteEast and Mizna collectively present the Arab Film Fest Collab December 3–13, 2020. Other featured films include In Vitro (2019) by Palestinian artist and filmmaker Larissa Sansour. Languages represented in the films include Arabic, French, Somali and English, and every non-English offering is subtitled in English. To learn more about the Film Fest, sponsorship opportunities, and to sign up for updates, visit arabfilmfestcollab.org

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – The American Heart Association and the KLA Foundation, the philanthropic arm of tech company KLA, have partnered together to create the $1.5 million KLA Social Equity Fund. The KLA Social Equity Fund will take a hyper-local focus and is specifically targeted around KLA headquarters locations, including it’s California and Metro Detroit locations, according to a news release. “KLA employees have a long-standing commitment to making a difference in our communities,” said John Van Camp, executive vice president, human resources at KLA. “We’re grateful for this opportunity to work with the American Heart Association and encourage more companies to step up, take action and create real, systemic change for good.”Applications for the fund are now open and will be accepted until Nov. 11. At 11 a.m. on Oct. 21, the American Heart Association will hold a virtual town hall event for nonprofits interested in applying for grants from the KLA Social Equity Fund.

Ypsilanti, Mich. – On Saturday, Oct. 10, Ypsilanti-based nonprofit Hero Nation will host a virtual event highlighting the empowering impact of comic books and video games on young people. “When I was approached by Hero Nation to be a part of this project, I was excited and it felt like a fun way to share my story and represent for those who look like me.”The virtual event can be attended through the Hero Nation Facebook page. “The kids on our roster are very passionate, talented and powerful young people,” said Jermaine Dickerson, founder and executive director of Hero Nation. Hero Nation ‘Presents’ will also introduce its new 2021 initiative for comic creators, Creator Alliance. Hero Nation ‘Presents’ was created in its place.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – The Ann Arbor District Library is expanding its public services during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Although it’s closed to in-person book browsing, the library system has been offering contactless services, digital community events and virtual services over the past months. Bookable Zoom Meeting RoomsNo Zoom account? The AADL is now offering bookable Zoom meeting rooms so meetings don’t have to be cut short. The library system will also resume using the MeLCat service which brings in books from other libraries in Michigan.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – After being closed for almost seven months, downtown Ann Arbor’s State Theatre and Michigan Theater will finally reopen. The State Theatre will open with a screening of Aaron Sorkin’s "Trial of the Chicago 7″ on Oct. 9. The Michigan Theater will open on Oct. 11 with screenings of "The Personal History of David Copperfield " and “The Forty-Year-Old Version.”The reopening comes after Gov. Michigan Theater Foundation members and movie lovers will be able to see films on Tuesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Learn more about the Michigan Theater and State Theatre here.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – The City of Ann Arbor wants community members to share their thoughts on the redevelopment of four city-owned properties. Each survey is open until Dec. 14 and takes between five to seven minutes. Community input can also be given during three live virtual sessions held from 6-8 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 1; Nov. 9 and Dec. 10. The city is currently in the conceptual design phase for the redevelopment. The redevelopment sites are:121 E. Catherine St. (4th Avenue and Catherine Street parking lot)353 S. Main St. (Main Street and East William Street parking lot)309 S. Ashley St. (Ashley Street and West William Street parking lot)721 N. Main (a 5.26-acre site used for municipal parking)Learn more about the redevelopment sites at community-engagement-annarbor.com/

WASHTENAW COUNTY, Mich. – Curious about local food policies? At 6 p.m. on Wednesday, the Washtenaw County Food Policy Council will hold a forum with candidates running for Michigan House of Representatives districts representing different parts of Washtenaw County. The free, non-partisan event will focus on addressing issues related to local food systems, healthy food access and agriculture. During the forum, candidates will be asked about topics related to food access, agriculture and food. The Washtenaw County Food Policy Council is a subcommittee of the Washtenaw County Board of Commissioners with a mission to preserve and increase access to local, safe and healthy food for county residents.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – The University of Michigan’s beloved Penny Stamps Distinguished Speaker Series is back, but this year it’s virtual. Previously held in Ann Arbor’s historic Michigan Theater, the speakers series can now be watched through partnerships with Detroit Public Television and PBS Books. “While we’ve worked with DPTV in the past, I am thrilled about our partnership this year,” Chrisstina Hamilton, director of the Penny Stamps Speaker Series, told Michigan News. Watch the events here, on the Penny Stamps Series Facebook page and on Detroit Public Television. Here’s the upcoming schedule:During their talks, speakers and their content are not censored and is intended for adult audiences.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – Run, walk, jump or skip your way to a 5K and support girls in Washtenaw County. In honor of International Day of the Girl on Oct. 11, Girls on the Run of Southeastern Michigan is hosting a virtual 5K to raise funds for its programs to help girls around Southeast Michigan. Money raised through the virtual 5K goes towards scholarships for girls that want to take part in Girls on the Run’s afterschool programs. (Girls on the Run of Southeastern Michigan)✉ Like what you’re reading? Since running a 5K is part of Girls on the Run after-school programs, the virtual event seemed fitting.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – The City of Ann Arbor will begin this year’s burn season with an informational public meeting from 7-8:30 p.m. on Oct. 21. This fall, Natural Area Preservation will conduct controlled ecological burns in natural areas between Oct. 22 and Dec. 23. According to NAP, the ecological burns take place because native Ann Arbor ecosystems depend on fire to enrich soil and remove dead thatch. This year, NAP has permits to have burns in Bandemer Park, Barton Nature Area, Bird Hills Nature Area, Buttonbush Nature Area, Ruthven Nature Area, Scarlett Mitchell Nature Area, Sugarbush Park and Swift Run Marsh. City of Ann Arbor and township fire marshals review the plans before issuing burn permits.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – Known for its robust youth programming and events, Ann Arbor’s The Neutral Zone is offering all-virtual programs for area youth this year. Eight virtual programs are currently scheduled but more will be added in the upcoming weeks, according to the Neutral Zone website. Here is the current Neutral Zone virtual program lineup:Black Lives MatterWhen: Mondays, 5:45-7 p.m.What: A virtual space for youth of color. Riot YouthWhen: Thursdays, 5:45-7 p.m.What: A virtual youth-led social support and social justice program for LGBTQ+ teens at the Neutral Zone. LIVEWhen: Fridays 5:45-7 p.m.What: Participants can use the virtual space to book bands, artists and performers while organizing, and hosting virtual live stream shows.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. Watch six regional startups pitch their businesses for the chance to win $20,000. The pitch competition has been organized by the Ann Arbor Entrepreneurs Fund and will be hosted by Dug Song, Founder of Duo Security and A2EF steering committee member. Applications for the pitch competition were open to startups serving Washtenaw and Wayne counties that focused on social impact. Ann Arbor Entrepreneurs Fund is an initiative lead by the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation. Related: Ann Arbor Entrepreneurs Fund launches pitch competition for entrepreneurs making an impact

Interactive Tech Trek and Mobility Row MapAttendees will access the virtual experience via an interactive map where each company location features a behind-the-scenes video produced for Tech Trek and Mobility Row. The map functionality will also include a quick filter for companies participating in the virtual Mobility Row. Tech Trek T-ShirtsOne of the traditions that Ann Arbor SPARK will continue for the virtual 2020 Tech Trek is the free t-shirt to participating attendees. About Ann Arbor SPARKAnn Arbor SPARK, a non-profit organization, is advancing the region by encouraging and supporting business acceleration, attraction and retention. Ann Arbor SPARK collaborates with business, academic, government, and community investor partners.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. Commit to deepening an understanding of inequality and racism with the 21 Day Equity Challenge by United Way of Washtenaw County. The 21 Day Equity Challenge runs Sept. 8-27. Every day, UWWC sents out an email to challenge participants with an email prompt including readings, videos and/or podcasts. The challenge is done in partnership with other United Way organizations across Michigan in light of recent data regarding Michigan households who are considered Asset-Limited, Income-Constrained and Employed. Learn more about the 21 Day Equity Challenge at uwwashtenaw.org/equity-michigan.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. Community Television Network of Ann Arbor has received several Philo honors for its work in public, educational and government access TV. Named after the father of modern television, Philo T. Farnsworth, the awards are given to those recognized for further developing the use of television and promoting the use of media in communities. CTN and Ann Arbor Public School programs also received nominations for 2020 Philo Excellence Awards in the categories of Excellence in Animation -Cutting, Excellence Directing, Best Series Program and Best in Show. Political Awareness (Professional Division) -- AAPS 2019 Bond Informational Video with Scott Nadeau Video and Internet Stuff, LLC. Ann Arbor Public Schools Finalist HonorsDocumentary (Professional Division) -- A2 Engage - Volume III with Scott Nadeau Video and Internet Stuff, LLC.

This fall, Ann Arbor SPARK will present its fourth annual Tech Talk as part of the a2Tech360 series of events. The free, virtual program features inspiring TED-style talks from some of Ann Arbor’s most interesting and impactful business leaders.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. This fall, Ann Arbor SPARK will present its fourth annual Tech Talk as part of the a2Tech360 series of events. Immediately following Tech Talk is the final installment of Invest360, a new addition to the a2Tech360 series of events. During each of the Invest360 information technology, mobility and healthcare sessions, one company will be chosen by a panel of judges to receive a $50,000 prize. These three chosen companies will then virtually pitch after Tech Talk for the chance to win the Peoples Choice vote and an additional $50,000. Ann Arbor SPARK collaborates with business, academic, government, and community investor partners.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. Although its in-person Suds on the River celebration is a no-go this year, the Huron River Watershed Council has poured its efforts into a virtual program that helps Ann Arbor businesses. Participants of the Suds for the River Tour fundraiser will take themselves on a self-guided tour of Ann Arbor area breweries and eateries and while unlocking discounts courtesy of their tour passport. Heres how it works:After participants purchase a ticket online for $35 or more, the Huron River Watershed Council will mail a passport booklet for participating locations. About the Huron River Watershed CouncilThe HRWC is an environmental nonprofit coalition of businesses, community members, local governments and organizations dedicated to river protection. It is served the Huron River Watershed area in southeast Michigan since 1965.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. High school students interested in physics dont have many international opportunities to explore their interests. Realizing this, two Ann Arbor high school students teamed up to create the Young Physicists Association (YPA Physics). YPA Physics has already offered some physics-focused events but more are planned as the academic year approaches. On Aug. 30, YPA Physics will host the official Physics Bowl of Azerbaijan. contest will introduce high school students to computational physics and allow them to explore coding and physics together.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. Community engagement and artistic growth are the subject of a new memoir by University Musical Society president emeritus Ken Fischer. In the recently released memoir, Everybody In, Nobody Out: Inspiring Community at Michigans University Musical Society, Fischer reflects on 30 years of leading UMS and his work to diversify and expand programming. During his tenure as UMS president, Fischers efforts saw the building of UMS engagement with the surrounding communities and the University of Michigan, which made the musical society a model for performances, talent and community enrichment. Under Fischers tenure, the UMS received a 2014 National Medal of Arts, the nations highest public artistic honor. Celebrating its 142nd season, UMS is one of the oldest arts presenters in the United States having started in 1879.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. Located in the heart of downtown Ann Arbor, Literati Bookstore has had to pivot into the world of digital bookselling and event hosting during the COVID-19 pandemic. Through its At Home with Literati virtual events, the Ann Arbor bookstore connects its community of book lovers to their favorite authors as publishers forgo in-person book tours. Ganiard added that people in Ann Arbor get to have something similar to their downtown experience but that the events are also introducing author fans to Ann Arbor and to the bookstore. Literatis online presence has also helped the Ann Arbor community show its love of the bookstore. Literati Bookstore is at 124 E. Washington St.Related:Small Biz Saturday: Nicolas Books fulfills increased demand during COVID-19 pandemicSmall Biz Saturday: Tammys Tastings takes cocktail classes online

These are some of the themes found in The Invention of Love, the latest collection by author and University of Michigan alumna Sara Schaff. At 7 p.m on July 21, Schaff will be joined in conversation with author and U-M lecturer Greg Schutz to discuss the collection of stories during an At Home with Literati virtual event. Hosted by Ann Arbors Literati, the virtual event will be held through Zoom. Schaff is a graduate of Brown University and received her Masters of Fine Arts from the University of Michigan. Here is the summary for The Invention of Love from Schaffs website:What is love, if not an inventionnot just a human instinct but an artful construction?