12/6/24

Good morning, Ann Arbor!

This is the Ann Arbor Minute – the newsletter so sharp it could cut the line at Zingerman’s, but it wouldn’t . . . because we’re polite, not monsters. ✂️

What’s on tap for today:

• Scary kidnapping on campus 🚨

• Midnight Madness & KindleFest take over downtown streets 🎄

• Ann Arbor roads on watch—drive safe, folks! 🚓

Ready to dive in? Let’s do it…

NEWS DIGEST

🚨 Kidnapping Incident Shakes U-M Campus Area  

A 36-year-old man, Paul Joseph Walker, has been charged with kidnapping a University of Michigan staff member near the Glen Parking Structure on Dec. 2. Authorities say Walker entered the victim's car around 8:30 p.m. and directed her to drive to downtown Ann Arbor. Thankfully, no injuries or weapons were involved. Walker was arraigned and is being held on a $100,000 bond, facing a possible life sentence if convicted.  

This incident is part of a recent string of car-related crimes near campus. Police urge drivers to stay alert, lock their car doors, and report any suspicious activity. If you have tips, reach out to University of Michigan’s public safety at 734-763-1131 or their confidential line at 1-800-863-1355.

(Source)

🏢 University of Michigan eyes $20M purchase of downtown properties 

The University of Michigan is set to expand its footprint in Ann Arbor, proposing to purchase seven properties for $20 million. The decision awaits approval from the university’s Board of Regents during their Dec. 5 meeting. These acquisitions align with U-M's ongoing growth, which has attracted both praise for its contributions and concerns over its impact on Ann Arbor’s character and tax base. Many are watching how this will further reshape the city’s landscape, especially as areas like South University Street have seen dramatic high-rise development in recent years.

(Source)

🌮 Isalita to Close, Making Way for New Dining Concept 

After nearly 12 years, Isalita Cantina Mexicana on E. Liberty Street will serve its last meal on Dec. 22. Owner Adam Baru, who also runs neighboring Mani Osteria & Bar, plans to convert the space into a new venue called “Mani Next Door.” This upcoming project won’t just expand the Mani brand—it will focus on hosting larger parties and private events to meet growing demand. The decision comes after pandemic-related dips in sales and a surge of Mexican-style eateries in town. Baru assures that loyal staff members can stay on and will be trained for the refresh. While the menu is still under wraps, diners can expect a family-style dining experience featuring Mani favorites and creative new dishes. Construction is set to start in early 2025, aiming for a spring opening in time for UM’s graduation festivities. Until then, Isalita’s popular dishes will grace its final days' menu.

(Source)

🚜 More Snowplows Coming to Ann Arbor Neighborhoods

Winter just got a little easier for Ann Arbor residents. The city is investing an extra $500,000 in snow removal services this season to ensure neighborhood streets get plowed more efficiently. On Dec. 2, City Council approved a deal with Saline Township-based KBK Landscaping Inc. to supplement Ann Arbor’s own public works team with additional plow coverage. This means smoother and safer streets for drivers and pedestrians during those snowy Michigan months.

(Source)

🏗️ 17-Story Rambler High-Rise to Transform Church Street  

Construction is underway for the Rambler Ann Arbor, a 17-story high-rise on Church Street set to open by Fall 2027. Designed for University of Michigan students, the luxury building will feature 273 apartments accommodating 1,009 beds, with options ranging from studios to six-bedroom units. The building will include amenities like study rooms, a yoga studio, a rooftop pool, and a café called Daydreamer. It’s also pursuing LEED Gold certification for eco-friendly design while contributing $7.25 million to Ann Arbor’s affordable housing fund. Located near campus in a prime South University Avenue corridor, this project addresses the growing demand for student housing amidst UM's rising enrollment. The site previously held an iconic octagonal dome house, which has now been cleared for development.

(Source)

🚦 Police Prioritize Safety on Three High-Crash Ann Arbor Roads  

Ann Arbor police are focusing on three “safety corridors” to cut down on serious crashes as part of the city’s Vision Zero goal to eliminate traffic fatalities and injuries by 2025. Targeted areas include Washtenaw Avenue (between Geddes Ave. and Huron Pkwy.), Packard Street (between Fifth Ave. and Turnberry Dr.), and Jackson Avenue (between Burwood Ave. and Gralake Ave.), all identified based on crash data from 2019-2024. Officers aim to encourage safer driving by addressing speeding, distracted driving, and other dangerous behaviors, rather than writing more tickets. Drivers are asked to slow down, put phones away, and watch for pedestrians and cyclists. Officials note that reducing speed is critical in minimizing crash severity. You can report non-emergency traffic concerns at a2gov.org/trafficcomplaint.

(Source)

WEATHER

Today

☁️ High: 28°F, Low: 21°F

Cloudy and chilly conditions, with skies becoming partly cloudy later at night.  

Tomorrow

☁️ High: 37°F, Low: 34°F

Overcast skies with chilly temperatures, transitioning to partial clearing late at night.

AROUND TOWN

🎄 Kerrytown transforms for Midnight Madness and KindleFest 

Downtown Ann Arbor is gearing up for a festive Friday as streets close from 6 a.m. to midnight on December 6 for Midnight Madness and KindleFest. Midnight Madness, a beloved tradition, features late-night shopping in Kerrytown and downtown, with unique finds and holiday deals. KindleFest brings a European-style holiday market to downtown, complete with twinkling lights, craft vendors, hearty food, and warm beverages. The event promises seasonal cheer and is perfect for gift-hunters or those soaking in the holiday magic. Set your plans and prepare for detours—it’s all worth it!

🎶 Cozy Up for “An Acoustic Christmas” With Over the Rhine at The Ark 

Cincinnati-based duo Over the Rhine is bringing holiday spirit to Ann Arbor with their “An Acoustic Christmas” concert this Saturday at The Ark. Linford Detweiler and Karin Bergquist, known for blending Americana roots with elements of folk, jazz, and gospel, will perform a mix of original Christmas tunes from their three holiday albums. Accompanied by acoustic instruments and a grand piano, their songs explore themes of nostalgia, innocence, and the dream of peace on earth. The duo, who often draw inspiration from their rural Ohio home and literary figures, describe The Ark as one of America’s premier listening rooms. Perfect for the season, this festive concert promises a thoughtful winter evening in one of Ann Arbor’s coziest venues.

🎅 Santa and Gingerbread Fun

Bring the kids to Gordon Hall on Saturday, December 7, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, for a day of holiday joy. Santa will be there to chat with little ones, and kids can craft their very own gingerbread house to take home. This family-friendly event is by a $5 suggested donation, and it’s a perfect way to kick off the season with laughter and creativity.

🎄 The Nutcracker

This December, experience the timeless wonder of The Nutcracker at the University of Michigan Power Center for the Performing Arts, 121 Fletcher St., Ann Arbor. Featuring world-class dancers from companies like the Bolshoi Theatre, Philadelphia Ballet, and Washington Ballet, this production brings Clara, the Nutcracker Prince, and Uncle Drosselmeyer to life with dazzling artistry. Showtimes are Friday, December 6, at 7:00 PM, and Saturday, December 7, at 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM. Tickets are $25, making it a perfect holiday outing for all ages. Don’t miss the chance to revel in this enchanting seasonal tradition!

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

SMARTER EVERYDAY

Things that make you go hmmm….

Have you ever wondered why your fingertips wrinkle in water?

It’s not because they’re absorbing moisture—it’s your body’s clever way of improving grip in wet conditions, like natural tread for your fingers.

Evolution is wild, isn’t it?"

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