Category Archives: Kerrytown

Conventions and Trade Shows Cap Productive Summer in Ann Arbor

From July 30 through August 5, Ann Arbor played host to the National Training Institute’s (NTI) annual trade show. The trade show is designed to attract vendors seeking to provide information about their services and products to the electrical industry. The University of Michigan campus was “home for a week” to over 2,000 NTI participants and, according to Mary Kerr (president/CEO of the Ann Arbor Convention & Visitors Bureau), NTI participants were expected to infuse over $5 million into Washtenaw County.

This was the second NTI convention to be held in Ann Arbor. This is in large part because of the University of Michigan’s strong record of union support, which creates a conducive environment for the NTI programs and course offerings. The group also has many “training partners,” companies and organizations that contribute various forms of support to ensure NTI’s success. UM is already set to host the National Training Institute’s 2011 meeting, as well.

Continue reading →

Ann Arbor’s Blackbird Theatre Finds a Permanent Nest

dramaOne of Ann Arbor’s cultural icons, the Blackbird Theatre, has established its permanent nest at the SH\’aut\ Cabaret and Gallery, 325 Braun Court in Kerrytown – right across from the Farmers Market. After a year of experimenting with various locations and after seven years at the Children’s Creative Center on Pauline Boulevard,  the Blackbird has roosted in its new spot. Founding artistic director Barton Bund feels confident that the company will continue to grow and thrive in its new locale.

Last Tuesday evening, Bund’s celebration of the Blackbird’s new home also ushered in a new era of dynamic, cutting-edge artistic endeavor for downtown Ann Arbor. In addition to  consistently offering a diverse body of original work, the Blackbird offers free educational programs, and performance opportunities for all students in Washtenaw County. The Blackbird strives to bring students together with the area’s most talented and established theatre veterans. Continue reading →

Ann Arbor Lights Up to Celebrate July 4th

While it’s always easy to find fun weekend activities in Ann Arbor, the long holiday celebration of America’s independence promises to be cram-packed with excitement. There are loads of events planned throughout the weekend and, even if you’re not a “fireworks person,” you can make plans now to get out of the house and enjoy the beautiful summer weather. Our community is offering up as much excitement or relaxation as you can handle!

Things kick off on Saturday morning at 10:30am. Take the kids to downtown Ypsilanti, where they can actually participate in the annual Independence Day Parade. Bring along a decorated bike, wagon, or tricycle and lead the library’s bookmobile (the Navigator) in the parade.

Continue reading →

Ann Arbor Approves Phase of Zingerman’s Deli Expansion

Are you a fan of Ann Arbor‘s Zingerman’s Delicatessen? If so, you’ll be happy to know that the deli recently received a unanimous thumbs-up from the Ann Arbor Planning Commission for expansion. Soon, Ann Arbor will be able to enjoy Zingerman’s “world famous” brownies, mouth-watering sandwiches and widely-varied coffees in a much less crowded and more comfortable environment.

The deli and catering business opened in the Kerrytown neighborhood in the Old Fourth Ward Historic District, in 1982 with a staff of three. It has become one of Ann Arbor’s most successful small businesses EVER. Last year they sold over 300,000 sandwiches, and their staff has grown to 180. Their recognition in the national media and on the internet – as well as throughout the city – has made Zingerman’s an Ann Arbor landmark. The current campus, located at 422 Detroit Street in Ann Arbor, includes a next door cafe and an outdoor plaza.

Continue reading →