12/16/24

Good morning, Ann Arbor!

This is the Ann Arbor Minute — now 25% sassier than your morning coffee and twice as likely to spill the tea. ☕

What’s on tap for today:

• More controversy brewing at U of M 🚨

• Local resident makes national TV debut ⭐

• Unique holiday gifts? These quirky shops have you covered! 🎁

Ready to dive in? Let’s do it…

NEWS DIGEST

🚨 Controversy at U-M: DEI Leader Fired Over Antisemitic Allegations  

Rachel Dawson, a University of Michigan diversity, equity, and inclusion administrator, has been dismissed following accusations of making antisemitic remarks during a conference. Allegedly, she claimed wealthy Jewish individuals control the university and questioned Jewish people's connections to Israel. Dawson’s attorney refutes the claims, arguing her client's words were taken out of context and that her dismissal infringes on free speech. The university, however, stated her actions at the event conflicted with her role in fostering a multicultural environment. This incident adds to growing tensions at U-M, which recently faced vandalism at the home of Regent Jordan Acker linked to pro-Palestinian sentiments.

(Source)

🚔 Attempt to Stop Firearm Theft Leaves Ann Arbor Man Injured  

Ann Arbor police are investigating an incident in which a man was hurt while trying to recover his stolen firearm. The confrontation took place on Saturday, Dec. 14, in the 600 block of East William Street. Details about how the situation unfolded remain under investigation, with authorities working to piece together the events leading up to the injury. There’s no word yet on the condition of the man or whether the thieves were apprehended. This incident serves as a reminder to prioritize safety and contact law enforcement when dealing with theft rather than intervening directly.

(Source)

🏃‍♀️ Ann Arbor runner keeps going the extra mile—literally 

Gianna Lete, a 55-year-old Ann Arbor local, has spent decades running marathons and ultramarathons, including the famed Boston Marathon four times. This year, she conquered the 100-mile Indiana Trail race in under 30 hours, qualifying her for the Western States Endurance Run lottery—though she wasn’t selected this time. For Gianna, running offers more than medals—it’s therapy. Since her days at the University of Michigan, she’s relied on running to manage anxiety and depression, calling it “soothing and meditative.” Now a teaching assistant at Tappan Middle School, she continues to inspire others, including her husband Eric, who shares her love of long-distance challenges. As Gianna puts it, running is about persistence and finding joy in the journey, even when the road ahead seems tough

(Source)

🍕 Detroit Pizza Pub Brings a Slice of Detroit to Downtown Ann Arbor  

The Detroit Pizza Pub is a flavorful new addition to 207 North Main, serving up signature Detroit-style pizza alongside inventive Italian-inspired dishes. Known for its rectangular deep-dish pizzas with crispy, caramelized edges, the menu also features standout items like pistachio pesto penne and tempura-style calamari, crafted by Chef Carlos Aquino. This family-friendly spot offers something for everyone with its curated craft beer list and a cozy bar atmosphere upstairs. Meanwhile, the lower level houses the Havana Speakeasy, accessible through a phone booth, for those seeking specialty cocktails and a more intimate vibe. Owned by the Kouza family, the restaurant reflects their long commitment to Ann Arbor’s dining scene. Whether you're after a hearty slice or an exclusive lounge experience, Detroit Pizza Pub offers an inventive twist on traditional flavors.

(Source)

🎄 Free Holiday Meals Available Across Washtenaw County  

Several organizations in Washtenaw County are offering free meals this Christmas for those in need or spending the holiday alone:  

Robert J. Delonis Center in Ann Arbor: Food Gatherers will serve dine-in meals on Dec. 24 and 25 (3–4 p.m.), and on Dec. 31 and Jan. 1.  

Hope Clinic in Ypsilanti: Hot to-go meals will be available on Christmas Eve from 5–6 p.m. and on New Year’s Eve.  

Word of Deliverance Church near Ypsilanti: Offering a Christmas Eve meal distribution from 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.  

Chelsea Hospital: Free Christmas lunch on Dec. 25 (11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.; registration required by Dec. 16 via 734-475-9242).  

These meals provide comfort and connection for those who need it most this holiday season.

(Source)

WEATHER

Today

🌧️ High: 53°F, Low: 35°F

Cloudy with periods of rain; rainfall near a quarter of an inch. Breezy. 

Tomorrow

⛅ High: 40°F, Low: 29°F

Cloudy skies early, followed by partial clearing.

AROUND TOWN

☘️ A Heartfelt Tale of Love and Family

Acclaimed production, Mrs. Kelly’s Journey Home, written and performed by Washtenaw County’s Breeda Miller, will make it’s television debut tonight, December 16 at 8:00 PM on PBS. Mrs. Kelly’s Journey Home is a touching one-woman show about an Irish immigrant’s path to America and her later struggles with dementia. This heartfelt production blends humor and emotion as it explores themes of love, family, and caregiving. With vivid characters and moving storytelling, the show sheds light on the unspoken challenges faced by many immigrants and their families.

Mrs. Kelly’s Journey Home premiered in 2021 at the Arthur Miller Theater at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor and has gone on to perform across the US and Internationally. It’s a performance that will keep audiences riveted from the opening line to the closing blessing.  It is a moving, joyous exploration of love, roots and family. Be sure to check it out tonight!

🎻 90s Hits by Candlelight

Step into a magical evening at Frutig Farms, 7650 Scio Church Road, on December 17, 2024, from 6:30 PM to 7:45 PM, for a Candlelight Concert featuring iconic 90s hits performed by the Kalkaska String Quartet. Under the warm glow of candles, enjoy unplugged classics like “Wonderwall” by Oasis, “Smells Like Teen Spirit” by Nirvana, and “Zombie” by The Cranberries. This multi-sensory experience blends nostalgia and elegance in a stunning setting. Tickets are $36, so secure your spot now for an unforgettable night of music and ambiance!

🛍️ Five Unique Ann Arbor Shops Perfect for Holiday Gift Hunting  

From quirky keepsakes to fair-trade treasures, Ann Arbor’s downtown has no shortage of shops to delight holiday shoppers. At Catching Fireflies (419 Detroit St.), expect whimsical finds like jellycat stuffed animals, “Awesome Mom” socks, and even Faygo-scented candles. For kids and the young at heart, Mudpuddles (407 N. Fifth Ave.) serves up screen-free fun with Lego sets, ukuleles, and squishy NeeDoh cubes. Over at Rocket Fizz (306 S. Main St.), holiday stocking stuffers get a retro twist with over 500 soda flavors, taffy in wild varieties, and nostalgic candy galore. Rock Paper Scissors (216 S. Main St.) leans into pop culture, offering Taylor Swift ornaments, snarky mugs, and Michigan-made goods. Lastly, Ten Thousand Villages (303 S. Main St.) brings the world to Ann Arbor with ethically sourced crafts—think crocheted animals from Bangladesh and “vegan ivory” jewelry from Ecuador. Happy shopping, neighbors!

🎥 A Virgin Mary Docudrama Comes to Ann Arbor Screens 

Catch “I Am the Immaculate Conception,” a fascinating religious docudrama exploring reported appearances of the Virgin Mary throughout history. Directed by Michal Kondrat, this thought-provoking film is showing at Ann Arbor 20 and Emagine Saline on December 17th. Evening screenings are scheduled for 7 p.m. Tickets are $12.50 in advance through fathomevents.com or at the door. Whether you're spiritually curious or interested in historical phenomena, this film is worth adding to your calendar.

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

SMARTER EVERYDAY

Thoughtful quote…

"The best way to predict the future is to create it." – Peter Drucker.

A gentle nudge reminding us that dreams are just whispers until action gives them a voice.

What are you creating today? 💡

THANK YOU!

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