A MDP Upset and Potentially Good Weather

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Hike of the Week

Birds Hill Trail

Carved by the retreat of massive ice sheets over 10,000 years ago, this classic Ann Arbor park offers a rare chance to hike along the Fort Wayne Moraine, where a dramatic 176-foot elevation change provides a workout that’s as rewarding as the views. Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday are your days. Watch up for potential rain!

News

Grassroots Topples Establishment: Makled Unseats Acker in Historic Convention Upset

At a historic Michigan Democratic Party Endorsement Convention, a record-breaking 7,252 delegates delivered a stunning rebuke to the party establishment. Energized by a highly mobilized activist base demanding accountability and a shift in foreign policy, insurgent challenger and civil rights attorney Amir Makled successfully ousted embattled incumbent University of Michigan Regent Jordan Acker. The dramatic upset, fueled by intense grassroots organizing over blocked resolutions and a late-breaking scandal involving Acker, highlights a seismic shift in power dynamics as the party's left flank flexes its electoral muscle ahead of the November elections.

Check out the full story here.

Things To Do

Beginner Dabke Class

Farmington Community Library April 20, 2026

Zahr Al-Zatoun Dabke teaches beginner Palestinian dabke (traditional Levantine circle dance) as part of Arab American Heritage Month programming. Dabke is popular across many countries in the region. Free and open to all ages. Check the library's calendar for exact time. Event Details

Fundamentals of Salah

Muslim Enrichment Project (Online) April 21, 2026, 7:00–8:00 PM

Continuing MEP's weekly Tuesday "Reminders for the Sacred Journey" series on the fundamentals of prayer and purification. Free. Event Details

Saturday Shabaab Program Begins

MCA Ann Arbor April 25, 2026, 5:00–9:00 PM

The MCA Saturday Shabaab program for youth ages 12–17 kicks off its spring/summer season. Running every Saturday from 4/25 through 7/18, the program helps young Muslims build their faith, make friends, and have fun in a safe and welcoming environment through lectures, games, and activities. Program price: $250 (monthly payments available). Event Details

Women's Arabic Calligraphy Workshop

April 25, 2026, 6:00 PM — Dellah Coffee & Brunch House, Dearborn

A hands-on Arabic calligraphy workshop for women, held at the popular Dellah Coffee & Brunch House in Dearborn. Participants will learn foundational strokes and letter forms in the Arabic calligraphic tradition. A creative way to engage with Arab cultural heritage during Arab American Heritage Month. Event Details

Mezze & Museum Tour

Arab American National Museum April 26, 2026, 2:00–5:00 PM

A 90-minute guided tour of the Arab American National Museum in Dearborn paired with a tasting of traditional mezze, hosted by FHAM LLC in partnership with Embracing Our Differences of Michigan and the museum. The tour includes an exclusive 10% discount in the museum gift shop. Ticket sales are limited to 50 guests ($30–$50), and transportation from Arborland Mall is available (limited to 35 seats). Early booking recommended. Event Details

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