12/23/24

Good morning, Ann Arbor!

This is the Ann Arbor Minute - fresher than the Ann Arbor Farmer’s Market and twice as juicy.🍎 

What’s on tap for today:

• Near deadly apartment fire in AA 🚨

• $2.5B U-M construction: What’s coming in 2025! 🚧

• 10 Ann Arbor spots open for Christmas feasts! 🎄

Ready to dive in? Let’s do it…

NEWS DIGEST

🔥 Lithium-Ion Battery Safety Reminder After Ann Arbor Apartment Fire  

A scooter fire caused by a malfunctioning lithium-ion battery nearly turned deadly at an Ann Arbor apartment on Pontiac Trail. Fortunately, working smoke detectors alerted the resident in time to throw the flaming scooter outside, though they suffered minor burns and inhaled toxic smoke. Fire Chief Mike Kennedy stressed the importance of recognizing warning signs like leaking fluid, unusual odors, or a hissing battery. He urged residents to keep malfunctioning devices outside, at least ten feet from homes, for 24 hours and never block exits with electric mobility devices. This was the city’s sixth lithium-ion battery-related fire, highlighting the potential dangers of these everyday items.

(Source)

🏗️ $2.5B in U-M Construction Set to Transform Campuses  

The University of Michigan is making big moves with over $2.5 billion in construction projects underway across its Ann Arbor, Flint, and Detroit campuses heading into 2025. These projects include massive developments like the new Hadley Family Recreational Building, with a price tag of $165 million, as well as renovations and expansions for student housing and medical facilities. The upgrades aim to support U-M’s growing student body and improve campus amenities while reshaping neighborhoods like South U in Ann Arbor. With this expansion, the university’s footprint continues to evolve, fueling debates on its impact on the local community and economy.

(Source)

🎁 Last-Minute Holiday Shopping Spots in Ann Arbor and Ypsi  

Running out of time for holiday shopping? Don’t worry—there are plenty of local options to grab unique gifts. The Ypsilanti Artisan Holiday Market at the Freighthouse features 40+ local vendors, live entertainment, and tasty eats on Dec. 22 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Kerrytown Market in Ann Arbor is a one-stop indoor shop with everything from toys at Mudpuddles to jewelry and quirky finds at Found. For festive cheer, Rock Paper Scissors offers holiday-themed gifts like Taylor Swift ornaments and peppermint treats. Got a comic book or board game fan in the family? Vault of Midnight’s geeky selection is sure to impress. And don’t forget Zingerman’s, where gift baskets packed with artisanal eats are ready to ship. Whether it’s books, crafts, or gourmet goodies, these spots have you covered.

(Source)

🥢Late-night Thai eats coming to Main Street soon

Ann Arbor’s downtown food scene is heating up with the arrival of Eat Thai , a new restaurant set to open at 332 S. Main St., the former home of KouZina Greek Street Food. Spearheaded by Chef T eerawat “Apple” Pho-On, who also runs several other Michigan-based Thai spots like Tuptim Thai Cuisine, Eat Thai will offer authentic, customizable dishes and a wider appetizer menu. The restaurant is taking a bold step as it plans to serve food and drinks from 11 a.m. until 5 a.m. daily, providing late-night diners with a fresh option. Construction is already underway, and doors are expected to open in a few months. Locals are already buzzing with excitement for Pho-On’s signature recipes and this unique addition to Ann Arbor’s dining scene.

(Source)

🚧 Big Decisions Ahead for Ypsilanti in 2025  

Ypsilanti has a full plate of civic issues coming in 2025. Key debates include plans to address downtown safety, as protesters recently urged the city to tap “all appropriate resources,” including police. The city is also weighing the contentious topic of public control over the police budget, with some council members rejecting a related ballot proposal. Beyond policing, Ypsi faces big-picture projects like the future of the Peninsular Dam removal—a significant environmental step—and resolving long-standing concerns about homelessness with potential new shelter solutions. And don’t forget redevelopment plans for Depot Town, with city officials calling for scaled-back designs after public pushback. It’s shaping up to be a pivotal year for the community’s growth and priorities.

(Source)

🏈 Michigan Football Lands Linebacker with NFL Ties  

The Wolverines just boosted their linebacker depth by snagging Troy Bowles, a redshirt freshman transfer from Georgia and the son of Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles. Bowles, a former four-star recruit out of Tampa, Florida, brings an impressive high school record with 336 tackles and standout appearances in the Under Armour All-America Game. Despite limited action at Georgia, his potential and eligibility for three more seasons make him a strong contender for Michigan’s linebacker rotation, especially as the team navigates key roster adjustments. Bowles is the sixth transfer to join Michigan this month, highlighting another strategic move for the Wolverines heading into 2025.

(Source)

WEATHER

Today

🌨️ High: 35°F, Low: 33°F

Mostly cloudy and breezy with snow; some ice early in the day; any heavier burst of snow can reduce visibility and cause some slippery travel.

Tomorrow

☁️ High: 37°F, Low: 31°F.

Overcast with low clouds. Winds light and variable.

AROUND TOWN

🎄 Alicia Witt Brings a Cozy Christmas Concert to The Ark  

Actress and singer-songwriter Alicia Witt is spreading some holiday cheer in Ann Arbor this Friday with a Christmas-themed performance at The Ark. Known for roles in The Sopranos and Cybill, Witt is also a Billboard-charting artist and classically trained pianist. She’ll showcase songs from her new album, I Think I’m Spending Christmas with You, featuring both originals and classics like “O Holy Night.” This time, Witt is bringing her Nashville band to add extra festive flair compared to her previous solo set at The Ark back in March. Fans of Hallmark holiday movies might recognize her music from several she’s starred in—and now, she’s delivering a full-length Christmas album by popular demand. For Witt, it’s all about making connections and creating joyful traditions, both through her music and in the room. Tickets start at $30, and the show begins at 8 p.m.

🍴 Ann Arbor Spots Serving Up Christmas Day Feasts 

For those skipping the kitchen this Christmas, Ann Arbor has plenty of options for a festive meal out! A mix of Chinese restaurants, like Evergreen Downtown and TK Wu, will offer full menus for holiday tradition lovers. Prefer something different? Try Mediterranean fare at Palm Palace or a Brazilian-inspired feast at Texas de Brazil. Seafood fans can head to the Gandy Dancer for a special three-course holiday menu. These restaurants aim to blend convenience with holiday cheer, so you can relax and enjoy time with loved ones without the stress of cooking. Whether it’s dumplings, hibachi, or a stylish steakhouse vibe, there’s a spot for everyone this season.

🎨✨ Holiday Fun You Can Touch!

Get ready for hands-on holiday magic at the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum, running December 23, 2024, through January 5, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. Dive into festive, science-themed activities, creative crafts, and special performances—perfect for kids and curious adults alike! All activities are included with general admission, so bring the whole family for a fun-filled winter break packed with learning and laughter.

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

SMARTER EVERYDAY

“The trouble with the world is that the stupid are cocksure, while the intelligent are full of doubt.” – Bertrand Russell.

Confidence is often mistaken for competence.

Next time a know-it-all steers the ship, remember there’s wisdom in questioning the course. 💪

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