Good morning, Ann Arbor.

Officials warned residents to use portable fireplaces with caution after a Solo stove sparked a deck fire on White Street around 1:30 a.m. on Sunday, Aug.

15, 2019—fire crews arrived quickly and extinguished the blaze, limiting damage to the deck.

Long-time educators Samantha Cucu, Stephan Hogan, and Valeska Bass have been named principals at Mitchell, Abbot, and Pattengill elementary schools in Ann Arbor earlier this month.

They plan to bring steady leadership—focusing on academic programs and community building—as the school year comes to a close.

Ann Arbor Public Schools released new suspension data showing that suspensions increased and that Black, economically disadvantaged, and disabled students faced higher rates, with figures rising from 415 suspensions in 2021-22 to 683 in 2023-24 (projected to reach 884 in 2024-25).

The full report will be discussed at the school board meeting on April 23 at 7 p.m. at Earhart Road.

City officials said that Maynard Street — between East William and East Jefferson — will close today from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. as crews set up a crane to repair an elevator shaft near downtown; drivers will follow detour routes while the eastside sidewalk stays open for pedestrians.

City Administrator Milton Dohoney announced Monday night that Ann Arbor’s new eco-friendly Station 4 will be named for Mindy Kerr, the city’s first female firefighter who began her career in July 1980 and retired in 2005—she remains a trailblazer in local service.

The station will be built near Huron Parkway and Platt Road and will feature solar panels and geothermal systems—City Council approved the funding and contracts to move the project forward.

Former Michigan running back Benjamin Hall transferred to North Carolina on Monday after his limited playing time led him to seek a bigger role, and Michigan added two experienced transfers to boost its running back depth + prepare for the next season.

Michigan football held its annual spring game on Saturday, and the Wolverine Confidential podcast recapped the game — featuring quarterback play by Bryce Underwood and Jadyn Davis and discussions on transfers including Donaven McCulley and Justice Haynes — while also noting a strong defense and potential changes for the upcoming fall season.

Graduate transfer John Volker signed with Michigan football Monday after playing four seasons at Princeton where he was an honorable mention all-Ivy League running back and team captain and recorded 1,183 rushing yards plus 17 touchdowns, joining a crowded backfield that features Alabama transfer Justice Haynes and sophomore Jordan Marshall.

At Michigan Stadium on April 19th, coaches and players praised the strong defense during a spring game even after key defensive players from 2024 left.

Fifth-year defensive tackle Rayshaun Benny said the team has many good players — from veterans to new stars — to fill the gaps and keep the unit competitive.

Takács Quartet 50th Anniversary Performance

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Rackham Auditorium — Ticket pricing not specified — Celebrate an extraordinary evening with the Takács Quartet, a celebrated chamber ensemble in Ann Arbor.

The Tallest Man On Earth Live in Concert

8-11 p.m. — The Ark — Cost Info Not Provided — Experience the captivating folk sounds of Kristian Matsson, returning with a new album after a transformative journey.

Michigan State Spartans vs. Michigan Wolverines Baseball

1-5 p.m. — Ray Fisher Stadium — Cost varies — Experience the rivalry as the Spartans clash with the Wolverines in an exciting baseball showdown.

Wine & Pizza Night

5-6:30 p.m. — Everyday Wines — Special discount — Enjoy pizza from PizzaPazza and get $1 off a glass of wine.

Weekly Board Game Night

5-10 p.m. — Bløm Mead + Cider — Free to participate — An inviting atmosphere for casual gaming with friends or new acquaintances.

Michael McDermott Concert

8:00 – 9:30 PM — The Ark — Cost Info Not Provided — Experience the inspired rock of Michael McDermott, a blend of folk sensibility and honest rock stories.

Indie Guinn Musical Showcase

8:00-9:30 p.m. — The Blind Pig — Tickets starting at $10.00 — Experience live performances from Indie Guinn, Noah Dakho, and Mothdude in an intimate venue.

Paul Thorn Live Concert

7:30-9 p.m. — The Ark — Ticketed event — Experience the soul-stirring melodies of Paul Thorn as he shares wisdom-filled songs from his latest album.

Central Michigan Chippewas vs. Michigan Wolverines Baseball

4-8 p.m. — Ray Fisher Stadium — Ticket prices vary — Experience collegiate baseball rivalry under the lights.

Ink Flower Painting Workshop

10 a.m. - 12 p.m. — Gutman Gallery — $25 — Create a beautiful ink and marker flower still life in time for Mother’s Day.

Ann Arbor SPARK Annual Meeting

The Ann Arbor SPARK Annual Meeting celebrates the region’s economic development successes, highlighting key initiatives, business growth, and innovation in Ann Arbor and the surrounding communities. The event brings together business leaders, entrepreneurs, and community stakeholders to recognize impactful collaborations and share insights on the future of the local economy.