‘Go pick cotton:’ Black children relentlessly harassed at Michigan middle school, lawsuit claims
The parents of two Black middle school students in Portage have filed a federal lawsuit against the district, alleging their children endured relentless racial harassment from peers and a school bus driver, while administrators failed to take meaningful action to address the behavior. The lawsuit, filed in U.S. District Court last week, contends the Portage…
Pro-Palestinian students, alumni sue University of Michigan over alleged targeting of protesters
Pro-Palestinian students and alumni filed a federal lawsuit against the University of Michigan on Friday, alleging the school violated their constitutional rights to free speech, due process, and equal protection by silencing them. The suit, filed in U.S. District Court, claims the university engaged in a pattern of targeting pro-Palestine protesters with retaliatory disciplinary actions.…
Echelon Kitchen & Bar in Ann Arbor spotlights Michigan’s agricultural riches
A new culinary destination is set to redefine farm-to-table dining in Michigan. Echelon Kitchen & Bar, a wood-fired, vegetable-forward restaurant, is preparing to open its doors in early 2025 at 200 S. Main St., in the heart of Ann Arbor. The ambitious concept is a love letter to Michigan’s agricultural diversity, showcasing the state’s rich…
The Aladdin Sane launches Japanese-inspired cocktail omakase at Detroit’s Book Tower
The Aladdin Sane, a Japanese-inspired cocktail bar nestled within the recently renovated Book Tower in downtown Detroit, is offering a unique twist on the traditional cocktail experience: The bar has introduced a cocktail omakase — a tasting experience inspired by the Japanese dining tradition where guests leave their selections entirely in the hands of the…
Snoop Dogg’s cannabis brand seeks to improve its legacy in Michigan
Welcome to The Straight Dope, our new weekly series that explores the best cannabis products in Michigan. The first time Justin Brantley smoked Death Row Cannabis weed this summer, he was transported to 1996, when he was 11 years old and riding his bike while listening to Snoop Dogg’s recently released album The Doggfather. “I…
Mike Skill, of the Romantics, set to play intimate New Year’s Eve show at the Cadieux Cafe
Mike Skill, co-founder of legendary Detroit rock ‘n’ rollers the Romantics, is returning to his eastside roots to rock the Cadieux Cafe for New Year’s Eve. Skill, who co-wrote the band’s 1979 smash single “What I Like About You” and plays its signature guitar riff, brings his hard-rockin’ new band to the classic watering hole on Cadieux…
Michigan Democrats blasted for abandoning undocumented immigrants at last minute
Democrats appear to have reneged on a pledge to pass legislation that would allow undocumented immigrants the ability to obtain a driver’s license, drawing strong criticism from supporters of the bills. Instead of taking up the Drive SAFE bills this week, the Democratic-led House is planning to adjourn for the year. When state representatives return…
Two Detroit dishes make New York Times best of 2024 list
Detroit’s culinary scene has once again captured national attention. Two local favorites, Mike’s Famous Ham Place and Leila, earned spots on The New York Times’ prestigious list of “26 of the Best Dishes We Ate Across the U.S. in 2024,” showcasing the city’s rich and diverse food culture. The Times’ food writers crisscrossed the country,…
First rage room in Detroit opens to help residents smash stress
The Damage Zone, Detroit’s first and only rage room, has opened its doors in the Bethune community, offering customers a space to safely release stress and emotions through controlled destruction. The facility, founded by Zienethe “Zina” Holifield, combines entertainment with stress relief and community impact, making it a unique addition to Detroit’s small business landscape.…
Woodchips BBQ to serve free Christmas meals for the sixth year
Woodchips BBQ, a downtown Lapeer staple known for its scratch-made American barbecue, is once again offering free Christmas meals to the community, continuing a cherished holiday tradition now in its sixth year. The free meal will be served on Christmas Day, Dec. 25, from 12:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Woodchips BBQ, located at 315…
Free Will Astrology (Dec. 18-24)
ARIES (March 21-April 19): If you worked eight hours per day, seven days a week, it would take you 300 years to count to the number one billion. I don’t recommend you try that. I also discourage you from pursuing any other trivial tasks that have zero power to advance your long-term dreams. In a…
