Metro Detroit’s fairs and festivals are abuzz with excitement over Big Lake Candy Company LLC, a standout known for reinventing classic candies through the magic of freeze-drying.

By transforming sweets like Brain Bites and Arctic Crunch, they deliver treats that are airy, ultra-crunchy, and rich in flavor.

Every bite offers a nostalgic thrill with a fresh, irresistible twist.

What sets Big Lake Candy apart isn’t just their bold confections—it’s the interactive joy of seeing locals light up at their first bite, often reaching for another bag.

These unique, locally crafted candies spark conversation and bring fun to events, making them a must-try for anyone seeking something different.

Rooted in Metro Detroit, Big Lake Candy Company thrives on community spirit, hands-on small batches, and connections with loyal fans—all wrapped up in vibrant, playful packaging.

It’s more than candy; it’s a crunchy experience people can’t resist.

The  Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA) has revived its iconic 1976 “You Gotta Have Art” commercial, reimagining the beloved tune and spirit for 2025.

Under Adam Kosberg’s direction, this vibrant remake honors the original’s legacy while showcasing the museum’s dynamic evolution over nearly fifty years.

Starring museum staff, local performers, and community stalwarts — including Carole Harris and Allie McGhee reprising their original roles — the new film celebrates Detroit’s rich artistic contributions.

Iconic backdrops like  Rivera’s Detroit Industry Murals and Rodin’s The Thinker anchor lively performances, from Hardcore Detroit Jits Dancers to featured Contemporary Anishinaabe Art.

Released on YouTube, this project blends nostalgia and fresh energy, inviting visitors to rediscover the enduring power of art at the DIA and beyond.

Detroit Community Fridge maintains ten locations across Detroit, Dearborn, and Highland Park, providing free food around the clock to anyone in need.

Refrigerators and pantries are placed at local spots and continuously stocked by neighbors, farms, and small businesses.

Recognizable spots include Bridging Communities on McGraw, Georgia Street Community Collection, Field Street Community Fridge, and the Highland Park Little Pantry at Glendale and Dexter.

Other popular sites are Dearborn Mutual Aid on Abbey Lane, Arts & Scraps on Harper, Riverbend Little Free Pantry, and Maxwell Pantry.

These efforts help residents facing food insecurity, especially after disruptions to SNAP benefits.

Over 85 area pantries are mapped for easy access.

Forgotten Harvest and the Capuchin Soup Kitchen add further support, while United Way’s 2-1-1 line connects families to round-the-clock resources.

United, these initiatives highlight Detroit’s deep commitment to fighting hunger in its neighborhoods.

Big Lake Candy Company LLC

Big Lake Candy Company is bringing bold flavor and old-school fun to Metro Detroit with its wildly popular freeze-dried candy. From crunchy twists on classic favorites to unique seasonal drops, Big Lake Candy turns familiar treats into something totally addictive.

You’ll find them popping up at local events, fairs, and festivals, and they’re quickly becoming a go-to gift, impulse buy, and nostalgia hit for kids and adults alike. Everything is packed fresh, made to share (or not), and designed to make people stop and say, “Wait… what is THAT?”

Big Lake Candy is all about local hustle, community support, and fun you can taste 

👉 Follow along, grab a bag when you see them out, and support a growing Metro Detroit small business that knows how to keep things sweet.

Detroit Public Schools Community District (DPSCD) is bringing back its ‘Perfect Attendance Pays’ program for the 2025-2026 school year, spotlighting consistent student attendance as a key to academic achievement.

High school students can earn a $100 gift card for every full five-day week they attend, with a chance to collect up to $1,000 if they maintain perfect attendance through March 20, 2026. The previous program saw strong engagement, with nearly 5,000 students earning rewards and over 2,000 achieving perfect attendance for both cycles.

Student leaders, like Cass Technical High School’s Mi’Kah West, emphasize that daily attendance helps build supportive networks and life skills beyond the classroom.

Superintendent Nikolai Vitti notes that despite progress, issues such as transportation and housing continue to impact attendance. DPSCD is expanding resources, including mental health and transportation support, to ensure every student has the chance to succeed.

Polonus Restaurant, a cherished Wyandotte landmark, will close permanently on December 31, 2025, after nearly forty years serving traditional Polish fare.

Founded by Andrzej and Roman Mucha in 1988, the eatery became a beloved gathering place renowned for dishes like stuffed cabbage and pierogi.

The Mucha brothers, in a heartfelt note, thanked loyal patrons and devoted staff as they announced their bittersweet decision.

Retirement and changes in the area's Polish community led to this difficult choice.

Longtime server Wanda Dargadz, and regulars like Dale and Carol Pilon, shared sadness at losing the neighborhood favorite.

Located on Biddle Ave., Polonus will serve its signature menu until year’s end, with final plans focused on family, travel, and gratitude for decades of community support.

Metro Detroit educators are creatively using football themes to energize classrooms and make learning more engaging for students.

Mary Crippen, a third-grade teacher from Miami, launched this movement by weaving NFL-inspired activities into her curriculum.

Her innovative NFeLementary program quickly drew nationwide attention and prompted many teachers to try similar approaches.

In Dearborn, Allyson Roberts adopted these techniques at Advanced Technology Academy, seeing a clear boost in student enthusiasm and active participation.

Roberts now uses Detroit Lions press conferences for reading skills and NFL player stats for math, aligning lessons with students’ interests.

These fresh strategies are also mirrored outside the classroom—Dearborn’s Divine Child High School recently celebrated its first football state championship since 1985, rallying community pride with a parade and awards.

Sports-driven learning is sparking excitement, strengthening bonds, and making lessons memorable across the region.