Good morning, Ann Arbor.

An OpenAI-backed data center in southern Washtenaw County will move forward despite local officials’ initial rejection and residents’ concerns—Governor Whitmer praised the plan as Michigan’s largest economic project while Texas-based Related Digital supports it.

Local churches and community centers will open winter emergency shelters on November 10 to provide warm daytime and overnight support for those facing homelessness.

The service will run through April 14 and offers meals, medical care and tailored assistance for families and young adults — details confirmed by Washtenaw County officials.

Food Gatherers hosted four drive-thru emergency food distributions in Ann Arbor in December 2023 to help those facing food shortages after SNAP benefits ended—providing fresh milk, pantry items and produce at Briarwood Mall.

Students at Pioneer High School are performing The SpongeBob Musical, produced by the Pioneer Theatre Guild, which will run from Nov.

6—Nov. 9. Pioneer sophomore Vea Williams is rehearsing for the title role as the production brings an underwater tale to Ann Arbor.

Morgan Wallen will headline Michigan Stadium’s Big House concerts on July 24 and 25, 2026 and the shows are expected to boost local business revenue, though some residents remain concerned about his past use of racist language and disruptive actions—raising debate ahead of the event.

On Dec. 15th, 2023, federal judges ruled that SNAP funding would continue—protecting about 1.4 million Michigan households—and local food pantries in Jackson and Washtenaw County prepared for a rise in visits amid concerns over delayed funding.

Dr. Robert Bartlett, an 86-year-old emeritus surgeon at Michigan Medicine (professor emeritus at UM Medical School), died peacefully on Oct.

20 from natural causes, and he helped thousands with his pioneering work in extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO).

The Sunday Artisan Market

11 a.m. – 4 p.m. — Ann Arbor Farmers' Market — Free access — Explore creations from over 30 local artists and artisans every Sunday in Kerrytown.

Josh Ritter Concert

8-11 p.m. — The Ark — Ticket prices vary — Experience the magic of music with Josh Ritter and his new album.

An Evening with Boz Scaggs

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Hill Auditorium — Starting at $30 — Experience the timeless grooves of Boz Scaggs as he transports you back to the musical vibrancy of the 1970s.

NAMIWalks Washtenaw County

12-2 p.m. — Gallup Park — Donations appreciated — Walk to support mental health awareness and community building.

Mon Rovîa Concert

7-9 p.m. — The Ark — $30 — Experience Mon Rovîa's powerful storytelling through music inspired by a life of resilience and empathy.

Washtenaw Region Owner2Owner Networking Event

4-6 p.m. — Venue by 4M — Free entry — Connect with fellow small business owners and enhance community relations in Ann Arbor.

Sam Grisman Project Live Performance

8:00-9:30 p.m. — The Ark — Tickets not specified — Experience the heartfelt melodies of Sam Grisman and his talented ensemble honoring traditional American acoustic music.

Stucchi and The Shepherd

7:30-9 p.m. — The Ark — Tickets starting at $126 — Experience an unforgettable performance by Stucchi and The Shepherd in Ann Arbor.

Shovels and Rope Live

7-9:30 p.m. — The Ark — $40 — Experience the energetic Charleston duo stirring up Americana sounds with guitars and an eclectic drum kit.

The Ark's Open Stage Night

8-11 p.m. — The Ark — $3 entry, free for students and Ark members — Perfect your performance skills in a supportive environment with live entertainment.