The Sun Times News

Brooklyn Meets Ann Arbor: New Music & Improvisation – Tropos + Fortune Teller Trio (feat. Yuma Uesaka & Kenji Lee)
2026-04-01 19:30 - 21:00 (America/Detroit) | Kerrytown Concert House, 415 N Fourth Ave, Ann Arbor, M, 48104, United States
Brooklyn-based improviser-composer collective Tropos—featuring University of Michigan ’14 alum Yuma Uesaka—returns to Ann Arbor for a double bill with Kenji Lee’s Fortune Teller Trio. Rooted in the improvisational spirit of jazz and creative music while embracing the formal rigor and timbral curiosity of contemporary concert music, Tropos brings what critic Nate Chinen describes as an “engaging balance of precision and daring.” The set will feature new works alongside selections from Switches, developed through a workshop process with mentor Darius Jones. Fortune Teller Trio’s music similarly balances craft and spontaneity, making for an evening of thoughtfully composed forms, audacious improvisation, and shared musical values. Fortune Teller Trio features Kenji Lee (tenor saxophone), Andy Peck (double bass), and Jonathan Barahal Taylor (drums).
Set 1 – Fortune Teller Trio
Set 2 – Tropos

AI, ML and Computer Vision Meetup
2026-04-02 00:00 | Ann Arbor AI, Machine Learning and Computer Vision Meetup, N/A, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
Join our virtual meetup to hear talks from experts on cutting-edge topics across AI, ML, and computer vision.

Forming Your LLC for Small Business
2026-04-02 15:00 - 16:30 | Michigan Works! Southeast, 1201 E Ellsworth Rd, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
Learn how to create your LLC and file your Articles of Organization using Michigan’s new MI Business Registry website. This workshop covers why the LLC is the #1 business entity in Michigan and how to navigate LARA’s updated MI Business Registry Portal.

2026 Learning Levers Final Pitch Event
2026-04-02 16:00 - 18:00 | University of Michigan Marsal Family School of Education, Prechter Lab - 2202, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
Student innovators will pitch research-informed education technology ideas to a panel of expert judges for a chance to win up to $10,000 in funding. The competition challenges U-M students to create scalable, research-based digital tools that enhance learning in PreK–12 education and celebrates creative, interdisciplinary innovation.

Nucleate MI – Pitch Best Practices & Networking Event
2026-04-02 17:00 - 19:00 | Nucleate Michigan, 300 W Michigan Ave, Ypsilanti, MI, United States
Join Nucleate MI for an exciting fire chat around pitch best practices. This public event is your chance to engage with high-potential founders and gain critical insights into what makes a winning pitch.

Cocktail + Candle-Making Workshop
2026-04-02 18:00 - 20:00 | Water Tower Distilling Co, 23 N Washington St, Ypsilanti, MI 48197, USA, Ypsilanti, M, 48197, United States
An evening designed for trying something new, getting creative, and having a really good time.
Join us for a relaxed candle-making experience where handcrafted scents and artisanal drinks come together. Sip, pour, laugh, and create your own custom candle in a warm and welcoming tasting room atmosphere — no experience needed.
Whether you’re coming with friends or treating yourself, this workshop is all about slowing down, creating something with your hands, and leaving with a candle you’ll love (and a great memory).
✨ What’s Included
• A guided candle-making workshop using 100% pure soy wax
• All candle-making materials provided
• One handcrafted candle
o Upgrade option: Add a second candle (+$15)
• One complimentary cocktail or mocktail of your choice
• A relaxed, welcoming brewery atmosphere
✨ What to Expect
• 6:00–6:15 – Arrival & Welcome: Settle in, grab your drink, and get comfortable.
• 6:15–7:15 – Candle-Making Workshop: Learn the candle-making process and create your own custom soy candle using premium fragrances and wooden wicks.
• 7:15–7:30 – Sip, Connect & Play: Enjoy your drink, games, and conversation while your candle finishes setting.
• 7:30–8:00 – Candle Personalization: Decorate and personalize your candle with dried florals, herbs, or crystals for an extra special touch.
✨ Why Join?
• Try something new and creative — no experience needed
• Pair artisanal drinks with hands-on creativity
• Play with scents and create a candle that feels uniquely yours
• Enjoy a relaxed, feel-good atmosphere with great company
• Leave with a handmade candle you’ll actually love — and a really good memory
✨ Meet the Host
Renata – Candle Maker & Wellness Facilitator – @the.universe.stuff
Renata is the heart and hands behind The Universe Stuff, a holistic wellness brand rooted in mindfulness, creativity, and intention. She handcrafts soy candles and other wellness products designed to support balance and self-care, and she hosts workshops that invite people to slow down, connect, and create. Based in the Ann Arbor area, Renata loves bringing people together through meaningful, hands-on experiences.
✨ About the Space
Water Tower Distilling Co. – www.watertowerdistilling.com
This workshop will take place at Water Tower Distilling Co., a craft distillery rooted in the rich history and community spirit of Ypsilanti.
Known for its thoughtfully crafted lineup of spirits—from bold, barrel-aged whiskeys to botanical gins and clean, classic vodka—Water Tower Distilling Co. blends tradition, innovation, and a deep respect for quality. Each spirit reflects a commitment to craftsmanship and the idea that great drinks are meant to be shared.
Inspired by the strength and ingenuity of the iconic “Rosie the Riveter,” the distillery celebrates the hard work, resilience, and creativity that define the Ypsi community.
With its welcoming tasting room in the heart of downtown, Water Tower Distilling Co. offers the perfect setting for a relaxed and social candle-making experience—where craft spirits, creativity, and meaningful connections come together.

Qigong and Tai Chi Fridays
2026-04-03 16:30 - 2026-05-08 17:30 | Roots of Wisdom Acupuncture, PLLC, 231, Little Lake Dr. Suite G, Ann Arbor, MI, 48103, United States
QIGONG AND TAI CHI FRIDAYS!!!

$90.00

Fridays: 4:30-5:30pm
This 6-week series (followed by a 2-week break before next series begins) offers a gentle, grounding way to build strength, balance and calm through mindful movement.
Each class includes Qigong warm ups, foundational Tai Chi, and closes with qigong, acupressure, and a brief mediation.
All levels welcome. Dress comfortably and bring a water bottle.

Washtenaw County Job Fair & Career Expo
2026-04-06 11:00 - 14:00 | Michigan Works! Southeast, 1201 E Ellsworth Rd, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
14 employers across diverse industries are actively hiring! Bring your resume and meet them face to face. Whether you’re looking for your next opportunity or ready to change careers entirely, this is your moment.

Michigan Works Southeast Employer Information Session
2026-04-06 11:00 - 14:00 | Michigan Works Southeast, 1201 E Ellsworth Rd., Ann Arbor, MI, United States
Michigan Works! Southeast is proud to host the Washtenaw Job Fair & Career Expo, in partnership with the A2Y Regional Chamber of Commerce. Job seekers will have the chance to meet face-to-face with 19 employers hiring across various sectors.

Anna Gifty Opoku-Agyeman with Cortney Sanders: “The Double Tax”
2026-04-07 16:30 - 18:30 | Ford School of Public Policy, Weill Hall (Ford School) – Betty Ford Classroom (1110), Ann Arbor, MI, United States
Join us for a fireside chat with Cortney Sanders, and Anna Gifty Opoku-Agyeman, PhD student in Economics and Public Policy at Harvard, and author of the recently published book, “The Double Tax: How Women of Color are Overcharged and Underpaid.” “The Double Tax,” her second book, explores the costs women face, why the bill runs higher for women of color, and why closing the gaps helps everyone. A reception and book signing will take place in the Rebecca M. Blank Great Hall after the talk. The first 50 attendees at the event will receive a free copy of “The Double Tax.” RSVP at myumi.ch/xw1Ab.

SizeUp Live Training for Small Business
2026-04-08 14:00 - 15:00 | Ann Arbor SPARK, 330 E. Liberty St, Ann Arbor, MI, United States

City of Ann Arbor Economic Development Corporation Board Meeting
2026-04-08 16:00 - 18:00 | Economic Development Corporation of the City of Ann Arbor, 301 E Huron St, City Council Chambers, 2nd Floor, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
The Economic Development Corporation of the City of Ann Arbor was formed to assist in the attraction, relocation, retention and expansion of profit and non-profit organizations which provide employment and are beneficial to the City.

ENRG Monthly Meeting (Greater Ann Arbor Chapter)
2026-04-08 16:30 - 18:00 | Greater Ann Arbor ENRG Chapter, 3005 Boardwalk Drive, Suite #105, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
Come join us at the Ann Arbor ENRG event to share, learn, and grow as a business owner and entrepreneur. Each month, we gather EOS-powered leaders from our community to connect with peers who ‘get it’, sharpen our leadership skills, and solve real issues together.

Milan Area Community Listening Session - Tourism Impact Plan
2026-04-08 17:00 - 18:30 | Riverbank Center
Destination Ann Arbor is working with communities across Washtenaw County to create a Tourism Impact Plan. Your voice is an important part of that process!
We’re examining how tourism shows up in our communities and how it can best support local businesses, neighborhoods, and the quality of life of residents in the future.
As part of this process, we want to hear directly from residents, business owners, and community members like you.
Join a Community Listening Session
These conversations are an opportunity to share your experiences, ideas, and hopes for tourism in your community.

BioArbor - Fueling Innovation: A Founder’s Guide to Life Sciences Debt Financing
2026-04-08 17:00 - 19:00 | Michigan Biosciences Industry Association, 3600 Green Court Suite 780, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
Debt financing has quietly become a powerful tool for life sciences companies. Experts will explain how debt financing really works in the life sciences sector, when founders should start thinking about debt, and how lenders evaluate companies.

Milan Garden Club monthly meeting
2026-04-08 18:30 - 19:30 | MI
Milan Garden Club will hold its monthly meeting this April 8, 6:45 pm at the Bridge Church. Lisa Perschke will be our speaker and she will give a talk on composting with organic matter. The public is welcome to attend. Hope to see you there!

State of the County
2026-04-09 11:00 - 13:30 | Washtenaw County Government in partnership with A2Y Chamber and Saline Chamber, 4800 E Huron River Dr, Saline, MI, United States
Join us for lunch and hear concise updates on the latest developments across Washtenaw County. Presenters include elected officials and community leaders.

Legislative Luncheon State of the County
2026-04-09 11:30 - 13:00 | Saline Area Chamber of Commerce, 400 W. Russell St., Saline, MI, United States
Presenters are Commissioner Shannon Beeman, County Administrator Gregory Dill, Managing Director Road Commission Matt MacDonnell, Director of the Office of Community & Economic Development Toni Kayumi, Director of Aging Services Shannon Effler, and Commissioner Caroline Sanders.

Chelsea Community Listening Session - Tourism Impact Plan
2026-04-09 17:00 - 18:30 | The Collins Off Main

RENT
2026-04-09 19:00 - 21:35 | The Encore Musical Theatre, 7714 Ann Arbor St., Dexter, M, 48130, United States
Celebrate the power of love, community, and living for today with RENT, the groundbreaking musical that changed Broadway forever. Winner of the Pulitzer Prize and multiple Tony Awards, RENT follows a group of young artists and friends struggling to survive in New York City’s East Village during the height of the AIDS crisis. Jonathan Larson’s iconic rock score and raw, emotional storytelling have made this show a cultural touchstone for generations. Whether it’s your first time or your fifteenth, RENT is an electrifying experience that speaks to the heart.
Running Time: Approximately 2h 35m (includes intermission)
Content Advisory: Contains strong language, and themes relating to drug use, addiction, illness, suicide, and suggestive content. Recommended for teen and adult audiences.

UM Career Center Business Networking Night
2026-04-10 00:00 | UM Career Center, 6100 Center St, Ann Arbor, MI, United States

Ypsilanti DDA Grants Committee
2026-04-10 09:00 - 10:00 | Ypsilanti Downtown Development Authority, 1 S. Huron St., Ypsilanti, MI, United States
The Grants Committee is primarily responsible for any YDDA work associated with the physical/built environment and infrastructure and also all business support within the DDA districts.

Power BI for Business Users 1 Day Workshop | Ann Arbor, MI
2026-04-10 09:00 - 17:00 | Learnerring, Location shared via email ( Complete Address ), Ann Arbor, MI, United States
Unlock the full potential of your business data with this intensive 1-day, practical Power BI workshop designed specifically for business users, analysts, managers, and professionals who want to transform raw data into actionable insights.

John Heffron: Michigan Made. Nationally Funny.
2026-04-10 19:30 - 21:00 | Brighton Center for the Performing Arts, 7878 Brighton Rd, Brighton, M, 48116, United States
Comedian John Heffron is coming to Brighton — and if you’ve got Michigan roots, this show will feel like catching up with an old friend. Raised in South Lyon and a proud Eastern Michigan University alum, John brings his 35+ years of stand-up experience back to where it all started.
You’ve seen his comedy specials, caught him on The Tonight Show or Comedy Central… and honestly, you might’ve gone to high school with him. Or wiped out on the bunny hill at Mt. Brighton right next to him. Either way, his stories just feel familiar.
His comedy is clean-ish, nostalgic, and packed with relatable moments for anyone navigating life, aging, technology, and the weird joy of being “kinda” grown up.
🎤 Winner of NBC’s Last Comic Standing, a Q95 radio favorite, and a trusted headliner for corporate events across the country, John brings his signature Americana Comedy—real-life, story-driven, no-politics stand-up that hits home.
This show checks all the boxes when you’re looking to:

Catch up with friends without yelling over a bar
Press pause on the stress and just laugh
Get out of the house and still be in bed by 11
Feel seen, without being singled out
Share something fun and funny with your parents, your partner, or your crew
When John’s back in Michigan, his shows sell out fast. So rally your friends, get a sitter, and grab your tickets now.

VETERANS CONNECTED
10% of ticket proceeds go to Veterans Connected, a 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization, with the mission to support Veterans and their families, especially with suicide prevention. Services provided are financial assistance, home repairs, transportation, and spiritual support.
Veterans Connected is an all-volunteer board founded in 2019 with the mission to reduce the suicide rate, which is currently at 44 per day, by reducing the stressors. Stressors can be car or home repairs, rent, mortgage or utility bills, a ramp, or simply a safety rail. Every Veteran assisted has been refused help by the traditional services before Veterans Connected steps in and they have provided over $750,000 in support since September 2019. USA Today 2024 voted Top three charities in Metro Detroit.

Joel Schoenhals, concert pianist – Schubert Project Concert #2
2026-04-10 19:30 - 21:00 | Kerrytown Concert House, 415 N Fourth Ave, Ann Arbor, M, 48104, United States
Back by popular demand, pianist Joel Schoenhals returns to the House with the second concert in The Schubert Project, an ongoing celebration of the masterworks of Franz Schubert.
The evening features the Sonata in D Major, D. 850, a radiant and exhilarating work filled with lyricism, rhythmic energy, and sweeping virtuosity.
The concert concludes with one of Schubert’s most powerful and intimate creations, the Fantasy in F Minor for Four Hands, performed with his wife, pianist Bing Li.
Known for performances that combine warmth, brilliance, and expressive depth, Schoenhals consistently fills the House—and audiences’ hearts. Join us for an unforgettable night of Schubert at his most bold and dramatic.
Joel Schoenhals, piano
With special guest Bing Li, piano

17th Annual Community Economic Empowerment Summit
2026-04-11 08:30 - 16:00 | Marietta-Roswell Alumnae Chapter Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., 135 Riverside Parkway, Austell, MI, United States
Join us at the 17th Annual Community Economic Empowerment Summit, focusing on Restoring Power and Building Pathways to support Black Women in today’s economy. The Summit will include keynote speakers, workshop sessions, a career resource center and vendors.

Special Shop Event : A Day with YouTube Cyclist Ryan Van Duzer!
2026-04-11 11:00 - 17:00 | Destination Cyclery, 3219 Broad St Suite 105, Dexter, M, 48130, United States
Mark your calendars for Saturday, April 11th adventure cyclists! Destination Cyclery, Priority Bicyles, and Pinion invite YOU to an exclusive all-day event with YouTube bikepacking adventure sensation—Ryan Van Duzer!
Duzer is a filmmaker, author, and endurance athlete from Boulder, Colorado who is known for his adventure rides on Priority bicycles all over the world, and the films he produces on YouTube about these epic experiences. Many fans have witnessed him bike across Sweden, across the U.S., from Honduras to Colorado, across Ecuador, and more! He has participated in multi-day cycling events such as RAGBRAI and the Great Divide, and his many ultra running events include Leadville 100 and Javelina Jundred. Ryan’s biggest passion in life is to inspire others to get outside, embrace nature, and find adventure through human power. He does so not only with his Youtube and social media content, but also as the author of his book The Long Way Home, and as a motivational speaker. Of his mission Ryan says:
“I’m always on the hunt for exciting new experiences and ways to make this world a better place. The main goal with my content is to inspire viewers to get off their couches. This is my favorite quote and YES I love the Muppets, ‘I know I drive some people crazy with what seems to be ridiculous optimism, but it has always worked for me.’- Jim Henson”
On Saturday April 11th, we will welcome Ryan Van Duzer, Priority Bicycles, and Pinion to the Destination Cyclery bike shop in Dexter, MI for an all day meet-and-greet event. Enthusiasts can meet Duzer, test-ride Priority adventure bikes, talk to the masterminds behind these beautiful maintenance-free machines, and learn more about the Pinion gearbox technology that makes some of their models so unique.
But that’s not all… weather-permitting, we will ride with Duzer on some of the most beautiful dirt roads in Dexter! Make sure to join us for an unforgettable 75-90 minute casual cruise with this legendary YouTube cyclist, and maybe belt out an “Olé”or two!
Later, we will also hear the knowledgeable adventure enthusiast talk about his adventures and offer some of his best insights into bikepacking with his favorite bags from Green Guru Gear. He will share some of his best practices and inspire YOU to pack up your bike and get out there yourself!
DO NOT MISS this one-day-only opportunity to ride with and talk to the one and only Ryan Van Duzer, learn more about bikepacking and Priority bicycles, and feel inspired to create more of your own adventures!

Microsoft Word – Intermediate
2026-04-11 14:00 - 16:00 | Ypsilanti District Library, N/A, Virtual, MI, United States
Add visual interest to your documents. Learn to create and format tables, insert images, create bulleted and numbered lists, and insert tabs.

Joel Schoenhals, concert pianist – Schubert Project Concert #2 – Encore Performance
2026-04-11 16:00 - 18:30 | Kerrytown Concert House, 415 N Fourth Ave, Ann Arbor, M, 48104, United States

EMU Co-op & Internship Fair
2026-04-11 16:00 - 19:00 | Eastern Michigan University, Student Center Ballroom, Ypsilanti, MI, United States
Eastern Michigan University will host its annual 2024 Fall Job Fair, offering students an opportunity to connect directly with hiring managers from diverse industries. The Fair features more than 70 employers and is designed to support EMU students and alumni in advancing their careers.
