Merchants at the July 2 Main Street Area Association meeting expressed concern about an increase in panhandling, now that the downtown beat cops aren’t on patrol. [Full Story]
Mary Morgan, publisher of The Ann Arbor Chronicle, marks the publication’s 10th month in business by thinking about pies. [Full Story]
Plans to form a Main Street business improvement zone – or BIZ – are moving forward. The zone assesses property owners within the district, and would need to be approved by property owners and city council before taking effect. [Full Story]
The Washtenaw chapter of the American Red Cross held its annual membership meeting and awards ceremony on June 24. The chapter faces financial challenges as economic conditions have caused a drop in donations. [Full Story]
About six people carrying parade-type items: several colorful, handmade peace signs on wooden sticks and an American flag, with a peace symbol in place of stars. Maybe from Michigan Peaceworks, which has an office in that area?
The Freep reports that Ann Arbor-based M Den lost the contract it’s held for 17 years as the official store of UM sports. A 10-year deal was inked with Dallas-based eSports Partners. The article quotes M Den co-owner Doug Horning: “It didn’t come as a surprise because we were in a bidding situation going on for six months or so. We knew there was a possibility. We didn’t expect a national company to get involved, so that probably came as a surprise. We more than doubled our previous bid.” [Source]
Want to know who to thank for getting July declared as Michigan Craft Beer Month? That would be state Rep. Rebekah Warren, D-Ann Arbor, the primary sponsor of House Resolution 117. The resolution states, in part: “Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body designate July 2009 as Michigan Craft Beer Month as a celebration of the contributions that Michigan craft brewers have made to the state’s communities, economy, and history; and be it further Resolved, That we commend Michigan craft brewers for providing jobs, improving the balance of trade, supporting Michigan agriculture, and educating residents about the history and culture of beer while promoting the responsible consumption of beer as a beverage of moderation.” [Source]
In an article about a proposed Main Street business improvement zone (BIZ), we incorrectly listed the corporate affiliation of Rob Spears, a member of the BIZ initiative’s transitional board. He is with Cabrio Properties. Additionally, Keith Orr is a tentative board member, but is not currently on the board. We also clarified that a portion of Liberty Street on either side of Main is included in the proposed BIZ district. We note the errors here, and have corrected the original article.
Downtown Ann Arbor
One of the best things about living in Ann Arbor is our fabulous, funky and always interesting downtown. Great shops, a cornucopia of restaurants, and of course, the best people-watching in town. See you downtown!
Useful online resources:
From the DDA: A downtown Ann Arbor walking map [.pdf] and parking info
From getDowntown: Info on walking, biking, or busing downtown
From the Ann Arbor Area CVB: Info on downtown Ann Arbor events
