INSIDER
Those early Zoom meetings got people fired up for Harris. Now they're trying to get them to vote
Read full article: Those early Zoom meetings got people fired up for Harris. Now they're trying to get them to voteKamala Harris' candidacy generated a burst of enthusiasm through Zoom meetings this summer.
Ann Arbor Community Academy takes participants behind the scenes of city government
Read full article: Ann Arbor Community Academy takes participants behind the scenes of city governmentTree Town residents can register to attend free talks that delve into behind-the-scene machinations of city government and services.
2 conservatives accused in hoax robocall scheme plead guilty
Read full article: 2 conservatives accused in hoax robocall scheme plead guiltyTwo right-wing operatives have pleaded guilty in Cleveland to single felony counts of telecommunications fraud for having placed thousands of hoax robocalls in Ohio during the runup to the 2020 general election.
Kentucky man who shot classmates in '97 imprisoned for life
Read full article: Kentucky man who shot classmates in '97 imprisoned for lifeA Kentucky man who killed three fellow students and wounded five others when he was 14 years old will spend the rest of his life in prison without another opportunity to seek parole.
Ex-Illinois cop charged in 2020 fatal shooting of Black man
Read full article: Ex-Illinois cop charged in 2020 fatal shooting of Black manA former suburban Chicago police officer who was fired after he shot into a car two years ago, killing a Black man and seriously wounding the man’s girlfriend, has been charged with second-degree murder and involuntary manslaughter.
Wait, you heard that? Your mic might not really be muted during video calls, according to study
Read full article: Wait, you heard that? Your mic might not really be muted during video calls, according to studyFawaz and Yang tested videoconferencing applications on major operating systems such as iOS, Android, Windows and Mac, to see if the microphones were still accessed by the apps while muted.
Could swans be causing power outages in Oakland County?
Read full article: Could swans be causing power outages in Oakland County?There have been increased power outages around Cass Lake in Oakland County lately. It doesn’t appear to be faulty wires or old transformers but swans flying into the lines. And when it happens, it’s not pretty.
Ann Arbor Public Schools hosting virtual job fair Wednesday, Thursday
Read full article: Ann Arbor Public Schools hosting virtual job fair Wednesday, ThursdayOn Wednesday and Thursday, the public school system is hosting a virtual job fair as it searches to fill positions in all subjects and grade levels.
Conservative hoaxers face $5.1M fine for election robocalls
Read full article: Conservative hoaxers face $5.1M fine for election robocallsTwo conservative hoaxers face a record $5.1 million fine for allegedly making illegal robocalls to wireless phones without the owners' consent in the 2020 election.
Fired Mets GM Porter suspended by MLB through 2022 season
Read full article: Fired Mets GM Porter suspended by MLB through 2022 seasonFired New York Mets general manager Jared Porter has been suspended by Major League Baseball through at least the end of the 2022 regular season following an investigation that began after a report that he sent sexually explicit text messages and images to a female reporter in 2016 while he was working for the Chicago Cubs.
No charges filed against Michigan official who flashed rifle
Read full article: No charges filed against Michigan official who flashed rifleMichigan’s attorney general said Friday she would not file charges against a county commissioner who displayed a rifle during a livestreamed meeting, an incident some described as illustrating racial and cultural tensions in the Lake Michigan resort area.
A2ZERO Week to celebrate one year anniversary of Ann Arbor’s carbon neutrality plan
Read full article: A2ZERO Week to celebrate one year anniversary of Ann Arbor’s carbon neutrality planMore than 20 family-friendly in-person and virtual events are scheduled from June 1-6 to commemorate the event, highlight sustainability and educate the community.
WH legislative team pursues 'politics is personal' strategy
Read full article: WH legislative team pursues 'politics is personal' strategyWhile President Joe Biden pitches his infrastructure plan to the American public, the real work of delivering his legislative agenda takes place behind the scenes.
LIVE STREAM: Detroit mayor holds meeting to propose spending projects, request input from residents
Read full article: LIVE STREAM: Detroit mayor holds meeting to propose spending projects, request input from residentsThe city of Detroit is receiving hundreds of millions of dollars from the federal government, and Detroiters are being asked to share their thoughts on how the money should be spent during a meeting Tuesday.
Detroit residents asked for input on city spending of $400M from American Rescue Plan
Read full article: Detroit residents asked for input on city spending of $400M from American Rescue PlanThe city of Detroit is receiving hundreds of millions of dollars from the federal government through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), and Detroiters are being asked to share their thoughts on how the money should be spent.
University of Michigan professors, scent expert lead interactive virtual workshops during pandemic
Read full article: University of Michigan professors, scent expert lead interactive virtual workshops during pandemicTwo University of Michigan professors partnered with the 'nose of Ann Arbor' to bring students innovative, scent-based programming.
How an Ann Arbor company has maintained office culture while working remotely during pandemic
Read full article: How an Ann Arbor company has maintained office culture while working remotely during pandemicHR Business Partner at Oxford Companies shares how the company pivoted to engage employees working remotely during the pandemic.
How an Ann Arbor company has maintained office culture while working remotely during pandemic
Read full article: How an Ann Arbor company has maintained office culture while working remotely during pandemicHR Business Partner at Oxford Companies shares how the company pivoted to engage employees working remotely during the pandemic.
Ford is betting that solid-state batteries will cut EV costs
Read full article: Ford is betting that solid-state batteries will cut EV costsFord has raised its stake in a manufacturer of solid-state batteries — a move that its chief product and operations officer, Hau Thai-Tang, says will strengthen the company’s effort to increase the range and reduce the costs of its next generation of electric vehicles.
The cast of 'Trial of the Chicago 7' on their SAG Awards win
Read full article: The cast of 'Trial of the Chicago 7' on their SAG Awards winInstead of congregating on the stage of Los Angeles’ Shrine Auditorium for their best-ensemble win at the Screen Actors Guild Awards, the cast of “The Trial of the Chicago 7” called in on Zoom.
Oscars add UK hub for broadcast after concerns about travel
Read full article: Oscars add UK hub for broadcast after concerns about travelFILE - In this Feb. 21, 2015 file photo, an Oscar statue appears outside the Dolby Theatre for the 87th Academy Awards in Los Angeles. (Photo by Matt Sayles/Invision/AP, File)With less than a month until showtime, the 93rd Oscars are taking another pass at the script. The main event will still take place at Los Angeles’ Union station which will include a red carpet component but they are planning something special for the UK location. The show is also working with local broadcast affiliates around the world to provide satellite links for other international nominees. The 93rd Oscars will be broadcast live on ABC on April 25 at 8 p.m. Eastern.
Legislator being investigated for Weinstein backdrop on Zoom
Read full article: Legislator being investigated for Weinstein backdrop on ZoomBickford apologized, calling it "inappropriate and in poor taste." Weinstein is a former Hollywood producer who faced accusations from more than 80 women that he sexually assaulted them. (Maine Legislature via Zoom via AP)AUGUSTA, Maine – A Maine legislator who appeared for Zoom meetings twice with a background that made a joking reference to convicted rapist Harvey Weinstein is being investigated by the Legislature’s human resources department. Both times, Bickford quickly changed the background to a lake, which is his typical background for Zoom meetings. “It was inappropriate and in poor taste.
US jobless claims fall to 684,000, fewest since pandemic
Read full article: US jobless claims fall to 684,000, fewest since pandemicThe number of people seeking unemployment benefits fell sharply last week to 684,000, the fewest since the pandemic erupted a year ago and a sign the economy is improving. Thursday’s report from the Labor Department showed that jobless claims fell from 781,000 the week before. All told, the number of applicants fell below 1 million for the first time since the pandemic. AdNationally, though, the number of recipients in an extended federal jobless benefits program jumped by 730,000 to 5.5 million. Historically, the weekly unemployment claims figure has been considered an accurate reflection of the pace of layoffs.
Plans solidify for 93rd Oscars: No Zoom, no sweatshirts
Read full article: Plans solidify for 93rd Oscars: No Zoom, no sweatshirtsThe 93rd Oscars will be held on April 25. (Photo by Matt Sayles/Invision/AP, File)With nominations set and just over a month until showtime, details are trickling out about the 93rd Oscars and neither sweatshirts nor Zoom made the cut. They’ve enlisted Emmy and Tony Award winning director Glenn Weiss to direct the live broadcast on April 25. The producers said they plan to treat the event like an active movie set with on-site COVID safety teams and testing protocols. The 93rd Oscars will be broadcast live on ABC on April 25 starting at 8 p.m.
Prosecutor catches alleged abuser in victim’s home during virtual Michigan court hearing
Read full article: Prosecutor catches alleged abuser in victim’s home during virtual Michigan court hearingSTURGIS, Mich. – Video of an online court hearing in the town of Sturgis has gone viral because of one thing noticed by an eagle-eyed prosecutor. During the court hearing, the woman begins to hesitate when being questioned by Davis, who spoke up when she noticed the woman constantly was looking off screen. The woman’s video goes blank, and Harris’ camera eventually turns off too. “Your honor, we both don’t want the no-contact order,” Harris said. I’m sorry I lied to you.”Judge Middleton immediately shuts Harris down and adjourns the hearing.
Yankees' Boone back on bench 3 days after pacemaker inserted
Read full article: Yankees' Boone back on bench 3 days after pacemaker insertedThis screengrab from a Zoom call, Friday, March 5, 2021, shows New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone. Boone said he's feeling better after getting a pacemaker and said he hopes to return to the team Saturday or Sunday. (AP Photo/Ron Blum)New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone returned to the dugout Saturday, three days after surgery to have a pacemaker inserted. Boone, who turns 48 in a few days, left the club Wednesday to get the pacemaker at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Tampa, Florida. Boone, who had open heart surgery in 2009 for a congenital defect, had been experiencing light-headedness and fatigue this winter.
5 tips for successful virtual learning, according to a local academic
Read full article: 5 tips for successful virtual learning, according to a local academicDress nicely, turn your camera on, have pen and paper ready, and sit up straight,” Laverick suggests. Start a reviewing routineDr. Laverick suggests building a daily habit of reading through your notes from class. If you’re indifferent to the notetaking method you use, sometimes switching up your method can help you stay more engaged in the content. Protect your eyesHas virtual learning bothered your eyes? Whether your learning is 100% virtual or a hybrid model, remembering these tips will set you up to do your best, even when the circumstances are not ideal.
City of Ann Arbor seeks volunteers to help identify, monitor amphibian populations
Read full article: City of Ann Arbor seeks volunteers to help identify, monitor amphibian populationsANN ARBOR – Want to get outside and try something different this spring? The city of Ann Arbor’s Natural Area Preservation is searching for volunteers to help monitor frog, toad and salamander populations in the city’s parks and nature areas. Salamander Survey Kickoff and TrainingLearn to monitor Ann Arbor’s five species of salamanders. AdThe Saturday Zoom session will run from noon to 2 p.m.Frog & Toad Survey Kickoff and TrainingLearn to identify frogs and toads by eye and ear, and select which route you’d like to survey. The Saturday Zoom session will run from 2:30-4:30 p.m.
The glam was back at the Golden Globes, albeit at a distance
Read full article: The glam was back at the Golden Globes, albeit at a distanceAnd they were ready, style wise, as the Globes split hosts, with Amy Poehler at the Beverly Hilton and Tina Fey at the Rainbow Room in New York. Backstage after the show, Sudeikis told reporters he owns a multitude of hoodies but chose the one emblazoned with “Forward” on the front and “Listen + Lead” on the back as fitting for the unusual night. “I wanted to feel festive and go for it,” she told NBC. Sarah Paulson held her little black pooch on screen and Emma Corrin's fluffy white cat grabbed a moment for itself. AdLydia Marks, a New York set decorator, told The Associated Press the evening's technical challenges were many.
Michigan weighs charges against official who displayed gun
Read full article: Michigan weighs charges against official who displayed gunThe Michigan Attorney General's office is considering whether charges should be filed against a county commissioner who displayed a rifle at a livestreamed public meeting.
Ann Arbor students, parents rally at Skyline High School to demand return to hybrid learning
Read full article: Ann Arbor students, parents rally at Skyline High School to demand return to hybrid learningA high school student holds up a sign at a protest outside Skyline High School in Ann Arbor on Feb. 20, 2021. ANN ARBOR – Dozens of students and parents stood outside Skyline High School holding signs and giving speeches on Saturday, calling for the Ann Arbor Board of Education to continue with their original plans to return to school buildings beginning in March. AdAnn Arbor Public Schools students hold up signs at a rally to reopen schools at Skyline High School on Feb. 20, 2021. Skyline High School senior Eli Hendricks addresses a crowd of students and parents outside his school in Ann Arbor on Feb. 20, 2021. Signs posted outside Skyline High School's student entrance in Ann Arbor call for the return to hybrid learning.
Happ beats Cubs in arbitration; teams finish with 5-4 record
Read full article: Happ beats Cubs in arbitration; teams finish with 5-4 recordHapp asked for a raise from $624,000 to $4.1 million during a Zoom session Thursday, Feb. 18, 2021, and the Cubs argued he should be paid $3.25 million. Teams finished with a 5-4 advantage in cases that went to a hearing, their second straight winning record after two consecutive years in which players had an advantage. A day after hearing arguments, arbitrators Frederic Horowitz, Steven Wolf and Jules Bloch decided in favor of Happ's figure rather than the team's $3.25 million. St. Louis pitcher Jack Flaherty ($3.9 million), Braves pitcher Mike Soroka ($2.8 million) and Rays first baseman Ji-Man Choi ($2.45 million) also won their cases. Teams beat Atlanta shortstop Dansby Swanson ($6 million), San Francisco infielder Donovan Solano ($3.25 million), Tampa Bay pitcher Ryan Yarbrough ($2.3 million), New York Mets third baseman/outfielder J.D.
Aging desktop source of attorney's accidental cat filter
Read full article: Aging desktop source of attorney's accidental cat filterThis image from video shows a hearing from the 394th Judicial District Court of Texas. A filter that had been activated on the attorney's device obscured his appearance and made him look like a cat. And in Florida, a judge told attorneys they must get out of bed and put on clothing before appearing on video for proceedings. Ferguson, the judge who oversaw Tuesday’s hearing and posted the video online, told The Associated Press he had no idea the clip would become an instant hit. In one of the more hilarious moments, Ponton tells the judge: “I'm prepared to go forward” with the hearing, despite his feline appearance.
Looking for love? This is Michigan’s most-searched online dating question
Read full article: Looking for love? This is Michigan’s most-searched online dating questionViasat compiled some Google Trends search data to create a map of the most-searched online dating questions in every state. According to a 2019 Stanford study, online dating is now the most common way couples meet or connect. According to the data, the most-searched online dating question in Michigan is: “How to break up over text”Michigan is not alone in this one -- there are a handful of other states with the same top-search. “How to date online” is the most-searched digital dating query in nine states. Online dating was already popular before 2020, but online dating became some people’s only way to put themselves out there with social distancing in place.
Arbor Hospice to host free virtual music therapy sessions for people of all ages
Read full article: Arbor Hospice to host free virtual music therapy sessions for people of all agesANN ARBOR – Arbor Hospice and Hospice of Michigan have partnered to host virtual music therapy sessions for adults and children coping with grief after losing a loved one. Both sessions are free and will feature trained music therapists from Hospice of Michigan and Arbor Hospice. Ad“Research has shown the effectiveness of music therapy even in patients who are resistant to other treatment approaches,” Rachael Lawrence-Lupton, MA, MT-BC and music therapy supervisor for NorthStar Care Community said in a statement. For more information about Hospice of Michigan’s music therapy programs, click here. AdFor more information about Arbor Hospice’s music therapy programs, click here.
Owner of Mets and hedge fund leaves Twitter, citing threats
Read full article: Owner of Mets and hedge fund leaves Twitter, citing threatsThis photo from a Zoom press conference shows New York Mets owner Steve Cohen, Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2020. (New York Mets via AP)NEW YORK – The owner of the New York Mets says he has dropped off Twitter because his family received threats that he attributed to “misinformation" that was not tied to the baseball team. Hedge funds that shorted GameStop have lost billions as small investors bid up the company's shares. One of the short sellers, Melvin Capital, announced this week that it received a $750 million infusion from Point72. The Mets tied for last place in the National League East division last season.
Film fans can play to win with Michigan Theater’s virtual movie trivia
Read full article: Film fans can play to win with Michigan Theater’s virtual movie triviaANN ARBOR, Mich. – Get the gang together and win fun prizes at weekly virtual trivia hosted on Zoom by the Michigan Theater. Players can participate on their own or communicate with teammates (outside of the Zoom call) to coordinate answers. Movie buffs and cinema smartypants can win prizes for first and second place, including a Michigan Theater Foundation book or vinyl record and a free film rental through Agile Link. Michigan Theater members can play for free by sending an email to feedback@michtheater.org and asking for a special promo code. Here’s the current schedule:Thursday, Jan 28 - 7 p.m.Friday, Feb. 5 - 7 p.m. - Black Filmmakers EditionFriday, Feb. 12 - 7 p.m. - Romantic Movies EditionFriday, Feb. 19 - 7 p.m.Friday, Feb. 26 - 7 p.m.Sign up through the trivia schedule or learn more about the events and prizes at michtheater.org/trivia/
Relax on Wednesdays with virtual poetry courtesy of Crazy Wisdom Bookstore & Tea Room
Read full article: Relax on Wednesdays with virtual poetry courtesy of Crazy Wisdom Bookstore & Tea RoomPresent some poetry or listen to an author give a live reading courtesy of Crazy Wisdom Bookstore & Tea Room. With its second-floor tea room currently closed to visitors, the downtown Ann Arbor bookstore has been hosting informal poetry workshops and live readings through Zoom on Wednesday nights. Workshops are held on the second Wednesday of each month and hosted by the Crazy Wisdom Poetry Circle. Held on the fourth Wednesday of the month, live readings introduce audiences to the work of guest authors, essayists and poets. Links to the Zoom rooms are sent out the day of the event, according to the Crazy Wisdom Poetry Circle blog.
Annual Sustainability Forums series returns to Ann Arbor Thursday
Read full article: Annual Sustainability Forums series returns to Ann Arbor ThursdayANN ARBOR, Mich. – The City of Ann Arbor’s annual Sustainability Forums returns on Thursday with the first of five community discussions on sustainability-related topics. Organized by the Office of Sustainability and Innovations, the monthly forums will be open to the public and held virtually through Zoom. The five discussions will focus on food, green infrastructure, circular economy, waste reduction, energy production and a special topic that has yet to be announced. Each forum directly relates to the city’s A2ZERO sustainability framework to get to carbon neutrality by 2030. Here is the Sustainability Forums schedule and topics:Jan. 25: food and food accessFeb. 24: forestry and green InfrastructureMarch 24: waste reduction and circular economy (tentative)TBD: energy production and useThe last topic and date have not yet been announced.
Michigan official shows gun after public meeting criticism
Read full article: Michigan official shows gun after public meeting criticismRon Clous, an elected member of the Grand Traverse County Board of Commissioners, was at home during the livestreamed meeting Wednesday, the Traverse City Record-Eagle reported. “The only thing I know about them (Proud Boys) is when they came and spoke to us," Clous said. "To have a public official do that during a public meeting is horrendous.”Betsy Coffia, a fellow county commissioner, labeled Clous' action “deeply disturbing." “I am not a member of Proud Boys,” Hentschel said Wednesday. I’ve met Black Proud Boys, I’ve met multi-racial Puerto Rican Proud Boys and they inform me they also have gay Proud Boys.
Attorneys: Ex-governor charged in wrong county over Flint
Read full article: Attorneys: Ex-governor charged in wrong county over FlintAttorneys for Snyder are telling prosecutors that the Flint water case should be dismissed because he was charged in the wrong county. (67th District Court in Flint via AP)LANSING, Mich. – Attorneys for former Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder are striking back, telling prosecutors Tuesday that the Flint water case should be dismissed because he was charged in the wrong county. Snyder,” Lennon told the judge. Snyder was one of nine people charged in a new investigation of the Flint water crisis, including former state health department director Nick Lyon.
Mets fire GM after he sent explicit texts to female reporter
Read full article: Mets fire GM after he sent explicit texts to female reporterThis screen grab from a Zoom call shows New York Mets general manager Jared Porter Monday, Dec. 14, 2020. Mets general manager Jared Porter sent graphic, uninvited text messages and images to a female reporter in 2016 when he was working for the Chicago Cubs in their front office, ESPN reported Monday night, Jan. 18, 2021. (Zoom via AP, File)NEW YORK – Jared Porter went from rising star to unemployed — literally overnight. “We have terminated Jared Porter this morning,” Cohen wrote Tuesday. She said the Cubs employee told her Porter wanted to apologize in person, but she didn't want to see him.
Spice up your next virtual event with critters from Ann Arbor’s Leslie Science and Nature Center
Read full article: Spice up your next virtual event with critters from Ann Arbor’s Leslie Science and Nature CenterANN ARBOR – Tired of the uniformness of virtual meetings? That’s why the Leslie Science and Nature Center has begun offering special appearances from its animal ambassadors to lift the virtual meetup experience. An education staff member will accompany each animal ambassador for 15 to 30 minute sessions that include a Q&A. Below are the available animal ambassadors, with descriptions by LSNC:Barred OwlThe Barred Owl is no stranger to online teaching. Enjoy watching the behavior of these laid-back, powerful creatures as they slide their way into your next virtual hang out.
Ann Arbor Senior Center launches digital initiatives to keep older residents engaged
Read full article: Ann Arbor Senior Center launches digital initiatives to keep older residents engagedGRANADA, SPAIN - JUNE 01: Mari Carmen 79, kisses via videocall her family during her first family visit in DomusVii El Serrallo nursing home on June 01, 2020 in Granada, Spain. The Ann Arbor Senior Center will be hosting a series of virtual events starting in January to help senior residents connect with one another. Virtual TriviaOn the first and third Tuesday of each month, staff at the center will be hosting live trivia via Zoom. Free Lunch Break ClubLike the trivia, the Ann Arbor Senior Center’s Lunch Break Club will be held via Zoom. Here are the weekly topics:Jan. 7: New year, new goalsJan. 14: Welcome to my kitchenJan. 21: Best vacation experienceJan. 28: Let’s doodle togetherThe Ann Arbor Senior Center will be posting future weekly themes on its website and Facebook page.
Browns delay practice for Steelers after 2 positive tests
Read full article: Browns delay practice for Steelers after 2 positive tests(AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)The Browns didn't begin preparing for the Steelers on the field but rather via Zoom calls. The Browns, who have nine players currently on the COVID-19 reserve list, will make the postseason for the first time since 2002 with a win. After learning of the positive tests, the team closed its facility to do contact tracing and Stefanski said players were doing virtual meetings — something that has become standard in 2020. "“I don’t think it would come as a surprise for a positive test in that market. The Browns did have a good development as starting right guard Wyatt Teller was cleared to practice after missing two games with a sprained ankle.
Disorder in the (online) court: Jason Colthorp shares story of traffic ticket hearing on Zoom
Read full article: Disorder in the (online) court: Jason Colthorp shares story of traffic ticket hearing on ZoomOriginally, I was scheduled for court via Zoom, but this time it said to report to the court. Even when someone shows up with phone records to allegedly prove they weren’t texting like the ticket says—they lose the hearing. Almost immediately, the magistrate and officer agree to reduce it to a ticket for double parking, no points and fine of $180 dollars. Colthorp, the officer did not appear, your ticket is dismissed.”(Eyes as big as saucers) “Thank you, ma’am. Also, my next great idea is going to be turning traffic court Zooms into a TV show somehow.
New Phillies boss Dombrowski plans retool, not rebuild
Read full article: New Phillies boss Dombrowski plans retool, not rebuildThis screengrab from a Zoom call shows David Dombrowski, the Philadelphia Phillies' new president of baseball operations, during a Zoom call Friday, Dec. 11, 2020. (Zoom via AP)Dave Dombrowski wants to win again sooner rather than later. So he finalized a deal Friday to become the Philadelphia Phillies’ president of baseball operations, convinced the team is not far from its first World Series title since 2008. Phillies president Andy MacPhail called again Saturday, and Dombrowski said he was told of the nebulous expansion timetable by MLB on Monday and Tuesday. “It was John reaching out and really trying to make me part of the Phillies organization,” Dombrowski said.
Coolest virtual classroom ever? This teacher dresses up on Zoom every day in the best costumes
Read full article: Coolest virtual classroom ever? This teacher dresses up on Zoom every day in the best costumes“I love dressing up in costumes,” said Margaret-Ann Wommer, 30, of Troy, Michigan. Margaret-Ann Wommer (Provided by Margaret-Ann Wommer)As for her students’ reactions? It was hard to gauge exactly what the students thought, especially at first. Margaret-Ann Wommer (Provided by Margaret-Ann Wommer)Margaret-Ann Wommer (Provided by Margaret-Ann Wommer)Margaret-Ann Wommer (Provided by Margaret-Ann Wommer)Margaret-Ann Wommer (Provided by Margaret-Ann Wommer)Margaret-Ann Wommer (Provided by Margaret-Ann Wommer)Margaret-Ann Wommer (Provided by Margaret-Ann Wommer)Margaret-Ann Wommer (Provided by Margaret-Ann Wommer)She’s moved the needle with her students a bit. Margaret-Ann Wommer (Provided by Margaret-Ann Wommer)Margaret-Ann Wommer (Provided by Margaret-Ann Wommer)
7th Annual ‘12 Days of GRiZMAS’ is Dec. 12-23 on Twitch, Zoom
Read full article: 7th Annual ‘12 Days of GRiZMAS’ is Dec. 12-23 on Twitch, ZoomGRiZ’s 7th Annual ’12 Days of GRiZMAS’ Event Series is slated for Dec. 12-23, 2020. GRiZMAS will treat fans around the world to all the performances, activities, and community service initiatives. Since 2014, GRiZ’s “12 Days of GRiZMAS” series has made a true impact across Detroit communities, raising over $200,000 in the last two years alone. With local non-profit Seven Mile, GRiZMAS aims to raise funds for music education, art programs and coding lessons. This year, the series will be held digitally across Twitch and Zoom with events spanning from a cocktail day, Holiday Jazz Stream with GRiZ & Friends, a digital charity auction, community service day, a yoga day, and more.
Local 4 News at 4 -- Dec. 3, 2020
Read full article: Local 4 News at 4 -- Dec. 3, 2020Here’s what you missed on Local 4 News at 4:Restaurant owners meet to talk about COVID-19 restrictionsMany Michigan restaurant owners held a Zoom conference call to talk about defying Michigan orders if the ‘3-week-pause’ gets extended.
Zoom reports big 3Q gains, but slowing growth sinks stock
Read full article: Zoom reports big 3Q gains, but slowing growth sinks stockZoom’s revenue more than quadrupled from the same time last year to $777 million, yielding a profit of $198 million, up from just $2.2 million a year ago. Zoom ended its latest quarter with 433,700 customers with at least 10 employees, an increase of 63,500 customers from July. In each of the previous two quarters, Zoom had added more than 100,000 customers with at least 10 employees. In a reflection of the high hopes for Zoom, analysts polled by FactSet predict the company’s revenue next year will reach $3.1 billion. That would be a roughly 20% increase from revenue of nearly $2.6 billion that Zoom is projecting for this year.
6 ways to make virtual Thanksgiving entertaining for everyone
Read full article: 6 ways to make virtual Thanksgiving entertaining for everyoneWith many medical experts urging Americans to make this year’s Thanksgiving scaled down, many of us will probably only see people in our “bubble,” so holiday is going to feel a little bit different. Thanks to technology, you can still gather with your extended family.
Wayne County Board of Canvassers' Zoom meeting interrupted by violent, vulgar threats
Read full article: Wayne County Board of Canvassers' Zoom meeting interrupted by violent, vulgar threatsDETROIT – The Wayne County Board of Canvassers' Wednesday Zoom meeting ended up getting Zoom-bombed by an unknown amount of people hurling expletives. The meeting was held online and a link was available for the public to join the meeting. Threats and vulgar statements were made about the Board of Canvassers' mothers. With Wayne County at the center of President Trump’s lawsuits, as well as exhaustion after the count and the continuing drama, just about the last thing the Wayne County Board of Canvassers needed was people Zoom-bombing the meeting. "People act all sort of kind of ways.”The board is not letting the online obnoxiousness slow down their work.
New Yorker parts ways with Jeffrey Toobin after Zoom snafu
Read full article: New Yorker parts ways with Jeffrey Toobin after Zoom snafuNEW YORK – The New Yorker has parted ways with longtime staff writer Jeffrey Toobin after he reportedly exposed himself during a Zoom conference last month. “I was fired today by @NewYorker after 27 years as a Staff Writer. I will always love the magazine, will miss my colleagues, and will look forward to reading their work,” Toobin tweeted Wednesday. The magazine had earlier announced that “as a result of our investigation, Jeffrey Toobin is no longer affiliated with the company." Toobin, 60, had been with the New Yorker for more than 20 years, writing about everything from the O.J.
Ann Arbor police offer mobile arraignment program during COVID-19 pandemic
Read full article: Ann Arbor police offer mobile arraignment program during COVID-19 pandemicANN ARBOR – Officers in the Ann Arbor Police Department have developed a mobile arraignment program in response to community need during the ongoing health crisis. With many courts operating virtually due to the pandemic, settling court cases has been difficult for those without tech access -- until now. Those without tech access - and the homeless - have been unable to clear up court cases. pic.twitter.com/wCK4jkbV0k — Ann Arbor Police (@A2Police) November 9, 2020✉ Like what you’re reading? The Ann Arbor Police Department regularly posts updates on its Twitter and Facebook accounts.
12 last-minute Halloween costume ideas that are perfect for 2020
Read full article: 12 last-minute Halloween costume ideas that are perfect for 2020(Photo by APEX/MEGA/GC Images) (2020 MEGA)Who: The other star of Netflix’s irresistible “Tiger King." What you’ll need: Your hair pulled back in a bun, glasses, a judge’s robe and a fancy white collar. What you’ll need: A banana costume and a loaf of bread to carry around. (Photo by Chris Jackson/Getty Images) (2020 Getty Images)Who: A video conferencing program that became very popular once the pandemic started in early 2020. What you’ll need: A piece of cardboard cut with a whole in the middle to look like a screen.
Join Tati for our ‘This Is Us' chat tonight
Read full article: Join Tati for our ‘This Is Us' chat tonightIf you love “This Is Us” then you should join our “This Is Us" in the D Facebook group. For the last season and a half, this great group of people get together and watch the show. So many people in the group have wanted to get together and meet each other. We can’t do it in person, but we can grab a cocktail or cup of tea and do it over Zoom. Join the “This Is Us" in the D Facebook group today, and you’ll get an invite to this virtual event that starts Tonight at 8 p.m.
Ann Arbor Art Center to host virtual art camps during fall, winter school breaks
Read full article: Ann Arbor Art Center to host virtual art camps during fall, winter school breaksANN ARBOR – The Ann Arbor Art Center is bringing back its distance learning initiatives after the success of its first-ever virtual art camp over the summer. Registration is now open for three new online art camps for Ann Arbor Public Schools' fall, winter and mid-winter breaks. Its fall camp has an autumn theme, its winter camp has a New Year’s theme and its mid-winter camp’s theme is jungle explorers. According to the Ann Arbor Art Center’s website, each three-day virtual camp includes:3 Virtual Art Camp sessions featuring 1 project per session. ArtBoxes will contain most supplies needed for the virtual art camp projects.
ClickOnDetroit Morning Briefing -- Oct. 18, 2020
Read full article: ClickOnDetroit Morning Briefing -- Oct. 18, 2020Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer will speak to Local 4 News at 8:30 a.m. on Sunday, Oct. 18 live via Zoom. The interview comes as the governor continues to make national headlines over the domestic terror plot to kidnap and kill her. During his 90 minute speech in Muskegon, President Donald Trump mentioned the domestic terrorism plot to kidnap Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.
Japanese director known for single shots releases Zoom film
Read full article: Japanese director known for single shots releases Zoom filmThis undated photo provided by the @One Cut of the Dead Mission: Remote shows Shinichiro Ueda, director of One Cut of the Dead Mission: Remote, a YouTube spinoff of his 2017 award-winning film. A comedic horror film centered around teleworking, "One Cut of the Dead Mission: Remote” was released earlier this year and shared for free on YouTube. It features the same characters from his award-winning 2017 film “One Cut of the Dead,” which has one shot that was 37-minutes long. Ueda’s style incorporates slapstick comedy and focuses on visual, rather than explanatory verbal storytelling, an approach relatively rare in contemporary Japanese film. “It’s only after 200 or 300 bad films you will have that one great film,” he said.
City of Ann Arbor asking for public input on potential affordable housing
Read full article: City of Ann Arbor asking for public input on potential affordable housingANN ARBOR, Mich. – The City of Ann Arbor wants community members to share their thoughts on the redevelopment of four city-owned properties. Each survey is open until Dec. 14 and takes between five to seven minutes. Community input can also be given during three live virtual sessions held from 6-8 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 1; Nov. 9 and Dec. 10. The city is currently in the conceptual design phase for the redevelopment. The redevelopment sites are:121 E. Catherine St. (4th Avenue and Catherine Street parking lot)353 S. Main St. (Main Street and East William Street parking lot)309 S. Ashley St. (Ashley Street and West William Street parking lot)721 N. Main (a 5.26-acre site used for municipal parking)Learn more about the redevelopment sites at community-engagement-annarbor.com/
They wanted disruption in 2016. Now they're Trump defectors
Read full article: They wanted disruption in 2016. Now they're Trump defectorsThey wanted change and disruption, until they found out what that actually looked like under a President Trump. “I was super proud that day I walked out of voting,” said Jensen, who voted for Trump in the primary and general election in 2016. James Farr, a 77-year-old evangelical Christian who lives in Kissimmee, Florida, voted Republican in large part because of his opposition to abortion. While working as a Bible translator in Papua New Guinea in 2016, he voted for Trump by absentee ballot. On Nov. 8, 2016, Jensen posted on Facebook, “CNN having a meltdown,” referring to Trump’s unexpected win.
Parents turn to virtual, outdoor camps to keep children engaged after school
Read full article: Parents turn to virtual, outdoor camps to keep children engaged after schoolA Metro Detroit woman is giving parents an option to keep their children off the couch and learn a new skill. Parents are looking for creative ways to add fun back into their children’s day. One way is the new trend of socially distanced sewing camps and classes. “Alongside their friends but in a super safe atmosphere and environment.”Some of Victoria’s popular sewing camps are entirely virtual. “I know some schools are virtual,” Victoria said.
Ann Arbor to host virtual workshop for floodplain property owners Oct. 8
Read full article: Ann Arbor to host virtual workshop for floodplain property owners Oct. 8ANN ARBOR – The city of Ann Arbor will be hosting workshop for floodplain property owners on Zoom on Thursday, Oct. 8 from 5-7 p.m. The event will cover a flood zone mapping demonstration, proposed ordinance changes under consideration for properties in the floodplain and a Q&A session. Instructions on how to join the session, from the city’s website:To join from a PC, Mac, iPad, iPhone or Android device please use this link . Passcode: 004857To join by phone dial (for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location): US: 206.337 9723 or 213.338.8477 or 877.853.5247 (Toll Free) or 888.788.0099 (Toll Free). For those who would like to request accommodations, including sign language interpreters, contact the City Clerk’s office at 734-794-6140 or email cityclerk@a2gov.org.
Submit questions, participate in public Q&A session on Gelman 1,4-Dioxane litigation
Read full article: Submit questions, participate in public Q&A session on Gelman 1,4-Dioxane litigationANN ARBOR – Local and federal officials will hold a joint public session via Zoom on Thursday, Sept. 24 at 6:30 p.m. to answer questions residents have about the Gelman dioxane plume and ongoing litigation. Trustees of Scio and Ann Arbor townships and heads of the Huron River Watershed Council have been invited to take part in the session. The plume is a toxic pollution by chemical plant Gelman Sciences in Scio Township that’s been seeping into the area’s soil and groundwater since the late 1960s. Trace levels of the chemical have been detected in the city Ann Arbor’s drinking water supply from Barton Pond starting in Feb. 2019. Questions for the Sept. 24 event should be submitted to gelmanquestions@a2gov.org by Sept. 18 at 5 p.m.For more information on the case and cleanup efforts, visit the city of Ann Arbor’s Gelman 1,4-Dioxane Litigation website.
The Neutral Zone offers virtual programming to Ann Arbor area youth
Read full article: The Neutral Zone offers virtual programming to Ann Arbor area youthANN ARBOR, Mich. – Known for its robust youth programming and events, Ann Arbor’s The Neutral Zone is offering all-virtual programs for area youth this year. Eight virtual programs are currently scheduled but more will be added in the upcoming weeks, according to the Neutral Zone website. Here is the current Neutral Zone virtual program lineup:Black Lives MatterWhen: Mondays, 5:45-7 p.m.What: A virtual space for youth of color. Riot YouthWhen: Thursdays, 5:45-7 p.m.What: A virtual youth-led social support and social justice program for LGBTQ+ teens at the Neutral Zone. LIVEWhen: Fridays 5:45-7 p.m.What: Participants can use the virtual space to book bands, artists and performers while organizing, and hosting virtual live stream shows.
West Bloomfield School District takes extra steps to stop people from ‘Zoom bombing’ online classes
Read full article: West Bloomfield School District takes extra steps to stop people from ‘Zoom bombing’ online classesWEST BLOOMFIELD, Mich. – Schools across the country are dealing with virtual meetings being hijacked, disrupting virtual classrooms and wreaking havoc. The West Bloomfield School District has been attacked numerous times and is taking strong measures to stop it from happening again. The school district has all high school classes online and a significant population of underclassmen online has experienced at least six Zoom bombs this week alone at the middle and high school level. READ: ‘Zoom bombing’ -- how to protect yourself from hackers on Zoom callsThe people hacking the zoom calls are logging in and disrupting them from all over the country. The district said they are acting swiftly to protect students and teachers.
Celebrates International Chocolate Day with Jojos Treats n' Sweets
Read full article: Celebrates International Chocolate Day with Jojos Treats n' SweetsJojos Treats n' Sweets owner Joanne McGinn stopped by via Zoom to share some of the unique chocolates and desserts offered at her store. In addition to the classic white, milk, and dark chocolates, Jojos has several unique flavors and styles of candies. One unique chocolate option Jojos offers is their ruby chocolate, made from a rare breed of cacao. She also says they carry a Swiss chocolate that doesnt contain soy lecithin, which makes it a great option for anyone who cant have soy. McGinn also showed off her technique for making Jojos popular chocolate and caramel covered pretzels.
Zoom stock surges, market value tops Boeing, Starbucks
Read full article: Zoom stock surges, market value tops Boeing, StarbucksNEW YORK A Zoom call has become an integral part of daily life during the coronavirus pandemic. On Tuesday, Wall Street acknowledged as much by boosting the videoconferencing company's market value above that of more established companies such as Citigroup, Boeing and Starbucks. Zoom's revenue more than quadrupled from the same time last year to $663.5 million and profits blew past Wall Street forecasts. At the current level, Zoom's market value exceeds the combined value of two storied automakers, General Motors and Ford, and is more than double the aggregate value of the nation's four biggest airlines. The forecast is now more than double the $910 million revenue that Zoom had anticipated as it began its fiscal year.
City of Ann Arbor releases next steps in search for new city administrator
Read full article: City of Ann Arbor releases next steps in search for new city administratorANN ARBOR, Mich. The City of Ann Arbor has announced the next steps in its search to find and hire a new city administrator. Candidates will record their answers which will be available to view until Sept. 9 through the city administrator candidate webpage. The fourth city administrator candidate, Joyce Parker, withdrew from further consideration. Four days later, a special city council session was held to discuss finalists and the next steps towards hiring a city administrator. In June, Ann Arbor City Council began searching for a replacement for former city administrator Howard Lazarus, who was fired without cause in February through a vote of 7-4.
Enter Local 4 Today’s Frontline Moms Contest!
Read full article: Enter Local 4 Today’s Frontline Moms Contest!Published: May 4, 2020, 7:59 amDETROIT – We want to pamper one local mom who is working on the frontlines during this pandemic. What she could win:Gift Basket from 6 Salon worth $200, including a gift card, products, makeover certificate and Zoom call with George Nikollaj. Blake’s Orchard and Cider Mill: Mother’s Day Basket filled with goodies from Blake’s Hard Cider, Blake Farms, plus a $50 Blake’s gift card. value $125)Papa Romano’s ‘Mom’s Day’ Combo (Approx. value $50)Rules for Local 4 Today’s Frontline Moms ContestWe’ll announce a winner during Local 4 Today on Friday!
How to get camera-ready for your next Zoom work meeting
Read full article: How to get camera-ready for your next Zoom work meetingWith a lot of Americans working from their homes for the time being, meetings on Zoom have become the new normal. Just because you might be having your meeting from the comfort of your bed doesn’t mean that the professionalism of your workplace can’t exist at home -- so it’s a good idea to make sure you’re looking your best. StyleWise style editor Jon Jordan has a few simple ways you can easily transform your Zoom meeting aesthetic from casual at-home to business chic. Jordan says there are a few easy things you can do to improve the way you look on Zoom, including having a background with pop of color and having the perfect lighting. Check out Jordan’s latest StyleWise video, and make sure you like and subscribe to see more.
Dwight from ‘The Office’ hosting a Zoom call with pets
Read full article: Dwight from ‘The Office’ hosting a Zoom call with petsHave you had a Zoom meeting recently that was interrupted by dogs barking in the background or a cat jumping on your laptop, demanding your undivided attention? Well, on Thursday, you can have a chance to get in on a Zoom meeting in which pets are actually encouraged to join -- not be hidden in the background or behind closed doors. From 2 to 2:30 p.m. Eastern time Thursday, actor Rainn Wilson, in collaboration with Freshpet, is hosting a Zoom meeting with pets, where pet owners and their loved ones around the country can socialize together. You probably know this, but Wilson is best known for playing Dwight on the classic comedy, “The Office.”The public is invited to the Zoom call, but participants must register here. For once, you won’t have to try and silence or hide your pet on Zoom!
‘Zoom bombing’ -- how to protect yourself from hackers on Zoom calls
Read full article: ‘Zoom bombing’ -- how to protect yourself from hackers on Zoom callsWith the popularity of Zoom skyrocketing, the Better Business Bureau has a warning about hackers who break into calls without being invited, also known as “Zoom bombing.”RELATED: ‘You think Zoom bombing is funny?’ -- Hackers disrupt digital meetings with pornZoom is being used by millions of people around the world, so scammers are looking to capitalize. FBI agents and national security leaders are tracking those who have tried to hack into Zoom calls. Zoom officials are also scrambling to upgrade some security features, but right now, there are settings you need to be aware of. You have to make sure you review all the security features on each app individually. Loria said keeping apps updated is important because up-to-date apps will have the most recent security features.