11/29/24

Good morning, Ann Arbor!

This is the Ann Arbor Minute, the only thing worth waiting in line for this Black Friday—no camping chairs or elbowing required. 🛒

What’s on tap for today:

• Ann Arbor teens arrested for mall robbery. 😮

• New AA high-rise in the works 🏠

• Jazz tribute to the Duke 🎺

Ready to dive in? Let’s do it…

NEWS DIGEST

🔗 Teens Arrested After Armed Robbery at Briarwood Mall  

Two teens were taken into custody Monday night following an alleged armed robbery at Champs Sports in Briarwood Mall. According to Ann Arbor police, a 16-year-old and a 17-year-old reportedly stole items from the store while one displayed a gun. With aid from a police canine, one suspect was arrested near the scene, while the other was found shortly after. Officers recovered two firearms, an extended magazine, and the stolen merchandise. The teens are being held at the Washtenaw County Youth Detention Center as prosecutors review charges.

(Source)

🏗️ High Hopes for South U: New High-Rise Plan Expands  

Plans for a new high-rise on Ann Arbor’s South University Avenue are growing even taller! Originally proposed as a 17-story replacement for the Galleria Mall, the updated vision now features 18 stories, 259 apartments, and over 5,000 square feet of retail space. The project will replace not only the mall—home to longtime favorite Pinball Pete’s—but also a nearby 1960s-era apartment building on S. Forest Avenue. Developers are inviting locals to a meeting at the downtown library on Dec. 10 at 6 p.m. to share feedback on the revised plan. Construction is expected to begin by June 2026, giving current tenants time to relocate. Meanwhile, Pinball Pete’s arcade is preparing for a new home at 500 E. Liberty St.

(Source)

🍚 Ann Arbor welcomes Korean street food hotspot  

HanJan Pocha House has brought the flavors of Korean street and comfort food to 106 S. First St., a space formerly home to Miki Japanese Restaurant for decades. Run by husband-and-wife team Jamie and James Lee, the gastropub offers dishes like Jokbal (braised pig feet), spicy stir-fry squid, kimchi fried rice, and even an entire Korean fried chicken. Inspired by Jamie’s time living in Korea, the restaurant aims to create a social, late-night destination with beer towers, soju cocktails, and a karaoke room. With its vibrant atmosphere and sharable portions, HanJan Pocha hopes to carve out a new niche in Ann Arbor’s growing love for Korean cuisine.

(Source)

🎷 Planet D Nonet Brings Duke Ellington’s Magic to Ann Arbor 

Detroit’s nine-piece jazz powerhouse, Planet D Nonet, is hitting the Blue Llama Jazz Club this Friday, Nov. 29, for two performances celebrating their latest album, Echoes of Harlem: A Tribute to Duke Ellington, Vol. 2. Known for their authentic take on Ellington’s legendary sound, the band will highlight both classics and lesser-played gems from the Duke’s later era. Led by drummer RJ Spängler, the group blends swing, bop, and modernist styles, showcasing each member's distinctive talent. With 17 albums and 11 Detroit Music Awards under their belt, Planet D Nonet promises an unforgettable evening of music and fun. Tickets start at $40, available online or at the door for the 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. shows. If you’re a jazz fan—or just looking for a lively night out—this is the kind of event that makes Ann Arbor sing!

(Source)

🏀 Michigan’s Defense Shuts Down Xavier in Fort Myers

In a lopsided 78-53 victory, Michigan overpowered No. 22 Xavier in the Fort Myers Tip-Off, handing the Musketeers their first loss of the season. Michigan’s defensive pressure caused chaos, forcing Xavier into a season-high 19 turnovers and holding them to just 34.5% shooting from the field. The Wolverines’ 19-3 first-half run, fueled by Xavier’s offensive missteps, gave Michigan a lead they would never surrender. Danny Wolf shined for Michigan with a 20-point, 14-rebound double-double, while Michigan’s size advantage dominated the paint, outscoring Xavier 38-20 inside. Head coach Sean Miller noted that Michigan’s depth and physicality wore his team down late in the game. Xavier will look to bounce back Sunday at home against South Carolina State.

(Source)

WEATHER

Today

🌨️ High: 32°F, Low: 24°F .

Intervals of clouds and sun, breezy and colder with a couple of snow showers; any heavier snow shower could coat some roads and reduce visibility.

Tomorrow

❄️ High: 28°F, Low: 24°F.

Low clouds, breezy and cold with a couple of flurries.

AROUND TOWN

🎤 Matt Watroba at The Ark

Join folk musician Matt Watroba for an evening of community singing at The Ark, located at 316 S. Main Street. The concert begins at 8:00 PM, and tickets are priced at $20. Proceeds will benefit the Women's Center of Southeast Michigan.

🎅 Santa Photo at Briarwood Mall

Capture the holiday spirit with a photo session with Santa at Briarwood Mall, starting at 11:00 AM. It's a perfect opportunity for families to create lasting memories.

🎨 Art in Public Call for Art: Liberty Plaza

The City of Ann Arbor Parks and Recreation, along with the Downtown Development Authority, is seeking artists to design and paint murals in Liberty Plaza. This is an all-day event, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to the city's public art scene.

🎬 Flashback Cinema: Elf

Relive the holiday classic "Elf" at Emagine Saline on Friday, November 29. Showtimes are at 3:15 PM and 6:00 PM, offering a perfect midweek outing for all ages.

Upcoming Events (November 30–December 2, 2024)

🎸 Jo Serrapere at The Ark

On Saturday, November 30, at 8:00 PM, Jo Serrapere brings her eclectic mix of folk, blues, and roots music to The Ark. Tickets are $20, and the evening promises soulful melodies and engaging storytelling.

🎨 Art Exhibition at UMMA

Explore contemporary artworks at the University of Michigan Museum of Art. The exhibition is open from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Sunday, December 1, offering a rich cultural experience.

🎤 Gemini's Thanksgiving Concert

Join Gemini for their annual Thanksgiving weekend concert benefiting Mott Children’s Hospital. The family-friendly event takes place on Sunday, December 1, at 1:00 PM at The Ark. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for kids 12 and under.

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

SMARTER EVERYDAY

Leftover Thanksgiving pie?

Place a slice in the freezer, then pop it in a blender with ice cream for the greatest milkshake of your life. A clever way to give gratitude one more taste while never wasting a crumb.

Dessert + ingenuity = happiness at its peak. 🦃

THANK YOU!

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