12/1/2024

Good morning, Ann Arbor!

This is the Ann Arbor Minute - the newsletter that reads as sweet as the Buckeyes’ bitter tears.🏈

What’s on tap for today:

• Wolverines shock Ohio State—what a game! 🏈

• Ann Arbor’s 200th bash wraps up big! 🎉

• New AA Trail spots? Let’s explore! 🚴

Ready to dive in? Let’s do it…

NEWS DIGEST

🏈 Michigan Wolverines Stun Ohio State with Last-Minute Victory  

The Michigan Wolverines pulled off a shocking 13-10 win over No. 2 Ohio State on Saturday, capping a rivalry showdown with high drama. Unranked Michigan sealed the upset with kicker Dominic Zvada's 21-yard field goal in the game's final minute, breaking a 10-10 tie. Michigan's defense held off a desperate late push by Ohio State to clinch their fourth consecutive victory over the Buckeyes. Running back Kalel Mullings carried the day with 116 rushing yards and Michigan’s lone touchdown. Tensions spilled over post-game, as Wolverines players attempted to plant a team flag at midfield, sparking skirmishes with Ohio State players that led to pepper spray being deployed by law enforcement. Despite a struggling season for Michigan, the win cemented their status as a thorn in Ohio State's side, proving that records mean little in this storied rivalry.

(Source)

🍷 Lowertown Brings a New Vibe to Ann Arbor’s Northside  

Lowertown Cafe and Bar is shaking things up in the Northside neighborhood with its mix of cozy cafe mornings and laid-back, event-filled nights. Since opening in November 2023, the space has aimed to be a go-to spot for locals, offering Hyperion coffee, Michigan-made bites, and a bar menu designed for easy enjoyment, like QR code ordering at tables. The team, led by General Manager Dave Castleman, emphasizes creating a worker-friendly environment that translates into a welcoming experience for all. Beyond its regular offerings, Lowertown has expanded into hosting trivia nights, live DJ sets, and other casual community hangouts. Whether you’re in the mood for a quiet coffee or a group outing, Lowertown is positioning itself as a hub for connection and culture in Ann Arbor.

(Source)

🚴‍♂️ New Border-to-Border Trail Segments Boost Local Connectivity  

The Border-to-Border Trail in Washtenaw County just got a little longer and a lot better for walkers and bikers. Four new trail segments and a plaza opened in 2024, creating more opportunities to explore parks, visit downtowns, and enjoy a continuous non-motorized path across the county. This “superhighway” is a dream for outdoor enthusiasts, connecting various communities and recreational areas. The project isn’t stopping here—more expansions are planned for 2025, bringing the vision of a fully connected trail system closer to reality.

🎉 Ann Arbor’s 200th Anniversary to End with Big Bash  

Ann Arbor is wrapping up its year-long bicentennial celebration in style! On December 13, the city will host a final event to commemorate its 200th anniversary at the University of Michigan’s Hill Auditorium. The evening will feature performances by the Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra and local artists, alongside a retrospective on the city’s rich history and its exciting future. Throughout this year, the bicentennial has been marked with activities like historical tours, art installations, and public discussions celebrating the city’s cultural, scientific, and social contributions. This grand finale is free to the public, but advance registration is recommended. Don’t miss this historic moment to celebrate Ann Arbor's legacy!

(Source)

🏈 Michigan Coach Serves Up Savage Troll After OSU Win  

After Michigan's fourth straight win over Ohio State, Wolverines secondary coach LaMar Morgan couldn’t resist a bit of playful social media trolling. Morgan shared a text exchange revealing how Ohio State tried—and failed—to sway future Michigan DB and former FCS All-American Aamir Hall during recruitment. In the texts, an OSU assistant highlighted their coaching staff’s credentials, but Hall stood firm, responding he was “locked in” with Michigan. The Wolverines’ dominant defense in Saturday’s game, forcing two picks and holding OSU’s run game to just 77 yards, made the victory extra satisfying for Hall and Morgan. The tweet, tagged with a cool “#GoBlue,” added a spicy postgame cherry on top.

(Source)

WEATHER

Today

⛅ High: 34°F, Low: 22°F

Sunshine and clouds mixed. 

Tomorrow

🌥️ High: 34°F, Low: 24°F

A mix of clouds and sun in the morning followed by cloudy skies during the afternoon.

AROUND TOWN

🎵 Divas & Holiday Cheer

Get ready for an evening of operatic magic with "Opera on Tap: Deck the Halls with Songs of Divas" at 734 Brewing Company, 15 E. Cross St., Ypsilanti, on December 3 at 7:30 PM (seating opens at 6:00 PM). Local singers will perform arias, art songs, and holiday classics, including carols and festive favorites. The audience is invited to join in on “Silent Night” and Handel’s rousing “Hallelujah Chorus.” Admission is free, with donations accepted, and food and drink are available for purchase.

💃 U-M Ballroom Dance Club Hosts a Month of Elegance  

Next Sunday, December 8th, step into the Michigan Union Ballroom for a whirl of foxtrots, cha-chas, and tangos with the U-M Ballroom Dance Club! Open to all, these dances begin with a 6 p.m. beginner lesson before the main event at 7 p.m. No partner? No problem—come solo or with friends. Don’t miss the grand finale on Dec. 15, the annual Black and White Ball, featuring light refreshments and formal attire in black or white for a truly dazzling evening. Tickets are $5 for the dances, $10 with lessons, and $15 for the Black and White Ball.

🎶 Indie Folk Nostalgia Night

Come listen to the eclectic sounds of The Bygones at The Ark, 316 S. Main St., Ann Arbor, on December 3 at 8:00 PM. This luminous indie folk duo, featuring Joshua Lee Turner and Allison Young, blends a love for jazz, classical, and golden-age musicals with modern indie rock influences. Their nostalgic, soul-stirring set includes originals, instrumental pieces, and thoughtfully curated covers. Special guest Emma Harner joins the evening, making it a night of music and memories you won’t want to miss.

🎶 Handel’s Messiah at Hill Auditorium 

On December 7th at 7:30 PM, experience the Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra’s performance of Handel's "Messiah" at Hill Auditorium. With its grand choral arrangements and timeless melodies, it’s a breathtaking way to celebrate the season. Make sure to arrive a little early to appreciate the historic venue's gorgeous interior.

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

SMARTER EVERYDAY

Quote of the day:

"Ships are safe in harbor, but that’s not what ships are for." — John A. Shedd.

A gentle nudge from history: Security feels good, but challenge and exploration are where the magic (and the growth) happen.

So, when’s the last time you left your harbor? 🚢

THANK YOU!

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