The Gallery condos in Ann Arbor, popular among University of Michigan alumni, are often used as second homes, particularly on football Saturdays.
A look into the predominant presence of out-of-town owners, which poses challenges to the local housing market, is one of five “must-read” stories from MLive over the weekend.
New Ann Arbor condos used as Michigan football crash pads, second homes for rich
Wealthy alumni often purchase these properties not just as residences but also as investments or for occasional visits tied to football games.
Some have raised concerns about the impact on local housing supply.
Read reporter Ryan Stanton’s full story here.
Here are four other compelling MLive stories to read:
Angelique Motton makes her way down the sidewalk in downtown Kalamazoo.(Brad Devereaux | [email protected])
5 ways homelessness will look different this winter and beyond in Kalamazoo
Kalamazoo is facing severe winter conditions, affecting the homeless population, which has drawn attention to the need for adequate resources and support.
One shelter has implemented a 120-day stay limit and a cap on the number of residents to ensure longer-term assistance, prompting criticism regarding shelter access.
However, additional funding has been approved by Kalamazoo County and the city for overnight shelter services
Check out reporter Brad Devereaux’s story here.
The exterior of Flagstar Bank, 1717 N. West Ave. in Jackson.Chloe Miller | [email protected]
See which Michigan companies announced the biggest layoffs in 2025
The total number of layoffs across Michigan reached 9,033 in 2025, marking a slight decrease from the previous years.
Flagstar Bank laid off more than 450 employees due to the sale of its mortgage servicing business to Nationstar Mortgage.
A food distributor shut down its operations in Detroit, resulting in more than 250 permanent layoffs.
Reporter Ehren Wynder has all the details in this story here.
On Monday, Dec. 22, workers could be seen installing the red sign onto the outside of the Five Guys in Jackson.Chloe Miller | [email protected]
5 Jackson County developments to keep an eye on in 2026
Several major developments are expected in the Jackson area in the new year, from new apartments to a long-awaited popular food chain.
Some developments are in the early planning stages, while others have already broken ground.
The popular burger chain Five Guys is among the list of places set to open a location in Jackson in 2026.
Read reporter Chloe Miller’s story here.
Denny’s previously announced a plan to close 150 locations by the end of 2025.
Beloved breakfast chain completes closure of 150 restaurants; $620M sale nearly finalized
Denny’s is closing approximately 150 underperforming locations by the end of 2025 as part of a company overhaul announced in 2024.
The chain has agreed to a sale valued at about $620 million to TriArtisan Capital Advisors, Treville Capital, and Yadav Enterprises.
In response to shifting customer dining patterns, including an increase in reliance on delivery services, Denny’s is planning a strategic rebound for 2026.
Reporter Matt Durr shares more in this story here.
