January 10, 2025 ~ Lucy Ann Lance talks with Ashley Schafer, MSAA Executive Director as we go downtown with the Main Street Area Association. Downtown Ann Arbor is hosting several events to attract visitors despite the cold weather. Restaurant Week, from January 19th to 24th, will feature around 40 restaurants offering special prix fixe menus starting at $24.95 per person, encouraging people to try new dining experiences or revisit favorites. On February 8th, a Valentine’s Day-themed event called “Gales and Pales” will occur, allowing participants to use a passport system for discounts and activities at participating businesses, with a chance to win a local gift basket by completing the passport. Last year, approximately 28 businesses participated in this initiative.