Rise: Akasha Crystals Growth at the decorative rock and crystal distributor continues as the company moves into larger offices in downtown Ann Arbor. The 16,000-square-foot deal represents one of the largest office deals this year in the city, and it’s another step in Akasha’s growth arc - it expects to generate $15 million in sales in 2009, up from $10 million in 2008.

Fall: Ann Arbor Public Schools We know it’s not completely the district’s fault - there are complicating factors from both the University of Michigan and some state regulations - but plenty of parents in Ann Arbor would better enjoy winter break 2010 if it coincided with U-M’s time off. Anyone up for another pass at the calendar?