Author: Alyssa Whitford

Bundle up and come enjoy the many holiday markets happening in the Ann Arbor area over the next several weeks! There are a variety of upcoming holiday- and winter-themed events to help you and your family get into the spirit of the season (and maybe even finish your holiday shopping!). Below are several different holiday markets to explore. Bløm’s Midnight Madness Holiday Party + Market Bløm Meadworks is holding a holiday party and market on the first Friday in December. Enjoy hot mulled mead on a festive patio while listening to live music from local band Mercury Salad.  As you shop from local artists and artisans, you can even earn rewards. The event coordinators are offering free Mindo chocolate flights for purchases over $50 and free Bløm tee shirts for…

If you are looking for a fun and memorable experience to share with your family, the University Musical Society (UMS) at the University of Michigan offers rich, exciting opportunities for people of all ages to immerse themselves in the arts. In order to help the arts reach young children, UMS offers the Kids’ Club Ticket program to children in grades 3-12 for most performances during the UMS season. What is UMS?  Established in 1879, the University Music Society is one of the oldest performing arts presenters in the United States. According to their mission statement, UMS seeks to “inspire individuals and enrich communities by connecting audiences and artists in uncommon and engaging experiences.” To accomplish this goal, UMS provides the Ann Arbor area with performances of both well-known and up-and-coming…

In the midst of a nationwide debate about gun control and school violence, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine recently signed a bill that allows school faculty and staff to carry handguns on school property. Ohio joins several states across the country in the ongoing conversation about how to keep kids safe at schools.   While gun control has long been a topic of debate in the United States, the conversation around arming teachers, or allowing teachers to arm themselves, has seen an upsurge in recent years. This may be especially true in Michigan after the tragic shooting at Oxford High School in November 2021.  Michigan Policies Regarding Guns in Schools  As debates regarding school safety continue and neighboring states implement new policies, you may be wondering about Michigan’s current stance on school…