11/25/24

Good morning, Ann Arbor! This is the Ann Arbor Minute—the newsletter that’s more satisfying than finding a parking spot on your first lap downtown. 🚐

What’s on tap for today:

• Ann Arbor towing drama: "hostile suburbanism" or lifesaver? 🚗

• Top-scoring Washtenaw County schools—6 in Michigan's top 50! 🎓 

• Stunning Black history murals and art hunt coming soon! 🎨

Ready to dive in? Let’s do it…

NEWS DIGEST

🚗 Towing Troubles Spark Debate in Ann Arbor  

Towing in Ann Arbor is being labeled by some as "hostile suburbanism," highlighting frustrations with aggressive parking restrictions. Local resident Ryan Douma ignited the discussion after returning from a summer trip to find a borrowed car towed from outside his west-side duplex. Stories like his are common, especially in areas with strict tow-away zones. Towing companies argue their work keeps streets clear and ensures compliance, but critics say the rules disproportionately target residents and visitors, creating unnecessary tension. The debate raises questions about balancing enforcement and accessibility as the city grows.

(Source)

🏫 Six Washtenaw County Schools Shine in Statewide Rankings 

Six elementary schools in Washtenaw County have made the U.S. News & World Report’s list of Michigan’s top 50 for 2025. In Ann Arbor, Angell (10th), King (12th), Wines (26th), Bach (28th), and Eberwhite (33rd) were recognized, alongside South Arbor Charter Academy in Ypsilanti (44th). The rankings are based on proficiency in state math and language arts assessments, adjusted for socioeconomic factors. All six outperformed Michigan's average proficiency rates, with Angell and King leading the pack with excellent scores. Ann Arbor Superintendent Jazz Parks and South Arbor Principal Fletcher Morgan praised the teamwork and dedication that earned this achievement.  

Here’s one standout stat: Angell boasts an 87% math proficiency rate and a student-teacher ratio of 14:1. Cheers to the hard work of students, educators, and families across the county!

(Source)

🚨 Man Lived in Ann Arbor Apartment Without Permission for 3 Days 

A 35-year-old man was arrested this week after police discovered he had been squatting in a stranger’s apartment for several days. The Ann Arbor Police Department responded to a breaking-and-entering report around 7:15 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 19, at an apartment complex on the 1800 block of Stadium Place. According to officials, the man had somehow gained access to the unit and stayed there unnoticed until the property owner discovered the intrusion. No details were shared about any damages or items taken, but the man was promptly taken into custody. It’s a reminder to double-check those locks, folks!

(Source)

🎨 Ann Arbor’s Elevate Project Brings Black History and Art Downtown 

A wave of vibrant creativity is coming to Ann Arbor’s downtown through the Downtown Development Authority’s (DDA) new program, Elevate. The initiative includes five unique art and placemaking projects, highlighted by murals along Ann Street celebrating Kerrytown’s roots as a historic Black business district. These murals will honor community leaders and entrepreneurs who shaped the area’s cultural legacy, using city-owned spaces like the fire station and city hall as canvases.  

Adding to the artistic buzz, local artist David Zinn will transform downtown with a scavenger hunt featuring 10 permanent art pieces, and the Farmers Market plaza will get a stylish sunshade. Other projects include wayfinding art for Kerrytown and temporary interactive installations at Liberty Plaza and South University Avenue. It’s a colorful reminder of Ann Arbor’s history and artistic spirit, set to take shape by spring.

(Source)

🏈 Big Names Flock to The Big House for Senior Day 

The Michigan Wolverines closed out their home season with a star-studded Senior Day against Northwestern on Saturday. It wasn’t just about the game; it was also a major recruiting moment, as several high-profile prospects visited Ann Arbor. Leading the pack was 2025 five-star quarterback Bryce Underwood, fresh off his highly-publicized flip from LSU. Underwood joined fellow big-name recruits like EDGE rusher Recarder Kitchen, four-star Tobi Haastrup, and a lineup of Michigan commits, including Elijah Dotson and Shamari Earls. With National Signing Day just weeks away, the energy at The Big House was as much about the future as it was about the present.

(Source)

🏊‍♀️ Ann Arbor Pioneer Clinches Fifth Straight State Swimming Title  

Ann Arbor Pioneer’s girls swimming and diving team continues to dominate the state, capturing their fifth consecutive Division 1 championship over the weekend. The milestone win, held at Oakland University’s Natatorium, marked the program’s incredible 21st overall state title. Pioneer wasn’t the only Ann Arbor-area school shining in the finals. Skyline’s Adrienne Schadler impressed in the 200-yard freestyle preliminaries, while other local athletes from schools like Huron and Saline also made waves. With standout performances across the board, Ann Arbor swimmers proved once again why the region is a powerhouse in Michigan high school aquatic sports.

(Source)

WEATHER

Today

48 🌡️ 37 | 🌧️ | 70% | WNW 13 mph (11 knots)

Tomorrow

42 🌡️ 33 | ☁️ | 20% | N 9 mph (8 knots)

AROUND TOWN

Happening Today:

🎭Tear Down Our Walls

Join New York artist Nayland Blake at the Michigan Theater from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM for a captivating lecture. They'll delve into their career as a mixed-media artist, touching on themes of queerness, prejudice, and eroticism. It's a unique opportunity to gain insight into Blake's personal history and artistic journey.

.🎵Earth Song Concert

Head to Hill Auditorium at 8:00 PM for a mesmerizing Concert Band performance titled "Earth Song." This event features compositions inspired by the beauty and fragility of Earth, with collaborations from the U-M School of Environment and Sustainability and local students. It's an evening of music that highlights environmental themes.

🏒Skate into Fun

Grab your skates and glide over to Buhr Park Outdoor Ice Arena from 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM for an open skate session. Perfect for families and individuals alike, this event offers a fun and casual atmosphere to enjoy some time on the ice.

🎨Woodcarving Wonder

Get hands-on at the Ann Arbor District Library Downtown from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM with an introductory woodcarving workshop. Adults and teens can learn to carve and paint a small bird using a precut blank, making it a perfect event for craft enthusiasts looking to try something new

🃏Bridge Bonanza

Calling all bridge lovers! The Ann Arbor City Club is hosting ACBL-sanctioned duplicate bridge games from 12:00 PM to 3:30 PM. Whether you're a seasoned player or new to the game, it's a great chance to improve your skills and meet fellow enthusiasts.

Happening Soon:

🎅Santa at Briarwood Mall

From November 21 through December 24 (excluding Thanksgiving Day), Santa will be available for visits and photos at Briarwood Mall's Von Maur court. With festive activities and performances by local choirs, it's the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit. Appointments are encouraged to make your visit smooth and memorable.

🖼️Holiday Artist Market

Running until December 21 at The Gutman Gallery, this juried show features works by over 50 local artists. From jewelry to ceramics and paintings, it's a fantastic opportunity to find unique gifts while supporting local talent. Perfect for holiday shopping or simply enjoying beautiful art.

.🎬Andrea Bocelli Concert Film

Catch "Andrea Bocelli 30: The Celebration" at Ann Arbor 20 or Emagine theaters through November 22. This concert film showcases the world-renowned tenor's incredible performance from earlier this year. It's a treat for music lovers looking to experience Bocelli's enchanting voice on the big screen.

Please verify event details with the organizers before attending, as schedules may change.

SMARTER EVERYDAY

The On this day in history… 

In 1867, Alfred Nobel patented dynamite, a creation intended to ease labor but forever linked to destruction.

Wracked with guilt over its deadly misuse, he later established the Nobel Prizes to honor humanity’s greatest achievements.

Isn't it ironic how even our mistakes can ignite legacies of greatness?

Boom—or bloom—your choice! 🌻

THANK YOU!

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