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Goodies so good they’ll wow your loved ones and support your fellow Dearborn Wolverines while they’re at it!

University of Michigan-Dearborn is a birthplace of big ideas. It’s on our campus that Dearborn Wolverines plant the seeds for their wildest dreams and successful businesses. Whether they launch their endeavors while enrolled in ������-Dearborn, or they leverage the education, experiences and resources gleaned during their time at the university, our graduates go on to create businesses and products that make a difference in southeast Michigan and beyond. 

Shop for gifts that give back to our alumni and student entrepreneurs who make the Michigan family what it is today — a wonderful network of leaders and best! Go Blue — Go Dearborn!

313 MVarsity

Dearborn Wolverines love to show their Michigan pride! If you’re shopping for a diehard Michigan fan — the one who already has all the gear — try hitting up 313 MVarsity, a line of maize and blue fan-wear inspired by the love for the university. The web shop run by ‘05 and ‘20 CEHHS alum Rashid Faisal features fan apparel ranging from gameday shirts for adults and children alike, to outerwear and more including coffee mugs that celebrate Black Americans’ contributions to the institution.

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A to Z Wineworks

For the wine enthusiasts in your life, give the gift of a bottle of wine that’s great in taste and ethical in nature. In 2014, A to Z Wineworks — co-founded by Bill Hatcher, '76 M.M.  — became a certified B Corporation and has been recognized as a ‘Best for the World’ company every year since. 100% of the company’s grapes are sourced from local farms in Oregon, shipping for all direct sales is carbon neutral, and all workers are paid above living wage — and those are just a few factors that represent their commitment to being a sustainable business. Try a refreshing 2019 Riesling with aromas and flavors reminiscent of lemon, apple blossoms, honeysuckle and rosehip tea; or a vibrant 2017 Pinot Noir with stone fruit, white pepper and cedar notes.

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The ABC's of Walt

Both the young and young at heart love the magic of Disney. And there’s an illustrated children’s book by Christopher Tremblay, '14 Ed.D. — The ABCs of Walt (2018) — that gives the gift of learning. Amid your holiday celebrations, take time to read and relax with the book that covers everything from A to Z about Walt Disney and his inspiring life. 

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Asha's Immortals

Take a stocking stuffer to the next level with a multiple-compartment — and playable — holographic box. Give fun tokens of kindness to colleagues (just add some candy). Or put an engagement ring in an origami rose that’s your partner’s favorite color. Asha’s Immortals gift boxes are stunning and they add interest to any gift.

Owned by College of Engineering & Computer Science alum and veteran Frank Carter, '23 B.S.E.E.E, the Dearborn-based business crafts origami storage boxes that are flexible, durable and customizable. — they are the visual equivalent of Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR). Depending on what you’re looking for, the containers can move like a Rubix's cube, stack or spin. Of course it feels good to give a gift, but Asha’s Immortals makes watching someone open it a treat too.  

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Aunt Nee's

Treat a loved one (or yourself!) to a festive Taco Tuesday from home. Founded by Carlos Parisi, '11 B.B.A. and Patrick Schwager, '09 B.B.A., Aunt Nee’s has everything you need to take your Mexican-inspired dishes to the next level. Try their salsas — there’s mild, medium kicked up a notch with red pepper and a blend of spices and Mango Chipotle, a sweet-smoky combination of garlic, onion, cilantro and of course, mango and chipotle. There’s also a creamy guacamole and crispy tortilla chips made with non-GMO corn, too. 

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Backable:  The Surprising Truth Behind What Makes People Take a Chance on You

Invest in the rising entrepreneur in your life by gifting them a read that will inspire. Backable (Little, Brown and Company, 2021) by Suneel Gupta, '00 B.B.A., offers tips from Oscar-winning producers, members of Congress, culinary stars, venture capitalists, and founders of iconic companies, and suggestions for ways to get others behind your biggest ideas. 

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Baladuna: Arab American Narratives of Boundary and Belonging

Hadha Baladuna ("this is our country") is the first work of creative nonfiction in the field of Arab American literature that focuses entirely on the Arab diaspora in Metro Detroit, an area with the highest concentration of Arab Americans in the US. ������-Dearborn Alumni Author Contributors: Teri Bazzi-Oliver, ‘12 B.A., Mai Jakubowski, ‘15 B.A., Yasmin Mohamed, ‘15 B.A., and Hanan Ali Nasser, ‘18 B.A. share their childhood narrative of escape and survival.

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Belinda Bea, The Original Boss Bag

Introducing The Original Boss Bag, where luxury meets functionality in the world of handbags. Founded by Narketta Sparkman-Key, ‘04 M.A.L.S., a visionary alumna of the University of Michigan-Dearborn, these exquisite handbags are meticulously crafted for women who embody grace and ambition on the go. Each bag seamlessly blends contemporary style with practicality, offering a perfect companion for the modern woman's dynamic lifestyle. Visit the website to explore a collection that redefines elegance and empowers every woman to embrace her inner boss with sophistication and flair. Elevate your daily hustle with The Original Boss Bag—where fashion meets functionality.

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Black & Bougie

Black & Bougie, founded by ������-Dearborn alum Rashid Faisal, ‘05 M.A. and '20 Ed.D., is not just a lifestyle brand—it's a cultural movement rooted in promoting and educating on Black American history. Based in Detroit, this brand seamlessly weaves historical and cultural elements into minimalist fashion basics, creating a visual ode to the richness of Black American expression. By choosing black as the essence of all colors and embracing "Bougie" as a commitment to the best of living, Black & Bougie becomes a powerful symbol of individuals living their best lives. Rashid Faisal's vision is embodied in the brand's motto, "Changing the Narrative by Changing the Narrative," making Black & Bougie more than just a fashion statement—it's a celebration and redefinition of Black culture.

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BlueRaspberryCharms

Give your holiday celebrations a nostalgic 1950s vibe with some “new vintage” creations from BlueRaspberryCharms. College of Business alum Emma Herman’s, '23 B.B.A., Etsy shop sells seasonal home and party decor that’s inspired by vintage graphics. The Christmas gift tags, made from mid-century holiday cards, are super cute — as are the wooden ornaments and mantel flag garlands. Herman also makes custom cards for special events and retro Easter mini flower planters — if you’re planning ahead.

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The Collective: A Comic & Game Community

Step into The Collective: Central Florida's exclusive hub for comics, card games, miniatures, role-playing, and board games. Located in Altamonte Springs and owned by ������-Dearborn alum Kelly Galea, ‘90 B.S.A., they are your go-to comic book store, delivering fresh releases every Wednesday alongside a curated backstock and trades for complete story experiences. Dive into the world of card gaming with various Magic formats and the latest card games, offering both competitive play and casual pickup games. Unleash your strategic prowess in their miniature game store, where fantasy armies clash in epic battles. Experience immersive role-playing, battling orcs and goblins in fantastical realms, and share the joy of dice rolling and deck building in both cooperative and competitive board games. Explore the realm of creativity and inspiration.

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Customs by Noura

Know a creative spirit with style? Give them the gift of art that they can wear wherever they go. College of Business alum Noura Rabah-Nasr, '24 B.B.A., hand paints shoes customizable to what you want — so there won’t be two pairs that are the same. Her work has taken inspiration from anime, cartoon characters, album art and more. So take your Nike Air Force 1s, slip-on Vans or even Crocs to the next level and have Noura transform your kicks into an artist’s canvas. 

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Detroit Engine of America

Written by DBusiness magazine editor R.J. King, '85 B.A., Detroit Engine of America (Momentum Books, 2019) details the city’s evolution from a French fort in 1701 to the world's largest manufacturing economy by 1900. (The book even chronicles the founding of University of Michigan in 1817.) The book is the perfect gift for the bookworms and history buffs in your life — and anyone with Detroit pride.  

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Dr. Sadaf

Meet Dr. Sadaf, where compassionate care meets transformative coaching. As a board-certified OBGYN, Dr. Sadaf Lodhi, ‘96 B.S., seamlessly bridges the gap between physical health and intimate well-being. Offering tele-visit consultations for patients in Michigan and New York, her expertise extends beyond traditional medical boundaries. Dr. Sadaf's unique approach goes beyond routine check-ups—she doubles as a life and intimacy coach, providing private, confidential, and empathetic 1:1 online coaching sessions. Whether you're seeking personal growth or navigating professional challenges, Dr. Sadaf empowers women to unlock the full spectrum of pleasure in their relationships. With a foundation rooted in the University of Michigan-Dearborn, Dr. Sadaf Lodhi brings over two decades of experience to guide you towards living your best life both personally and professionally.

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DROUGHT

2020 has been a year when health and wellness has been top of mind for people across the globe and there’s no better gift than the gift of health. Consider purchasing something for the health-conscious in your life, like a juice cleanse from DROUGHT, an organic, Detroit-based juice brand co-founded by Julie James, '05 B.B.A. and Jenny James, '10 B.A.. The Wash and The Rinse are the brand’s blend of three to six 16-ounce organic, cold-pressed raw juices, intended to be consumed over the course of one day to help detox and give the digestive system a rest. There’s also an Immunity Potion Carton that can be shipped directly to your door, and gift cards, too!  

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Also available at DROUGHT stores.

Farmington Deli

Instead of a physical gift, consider giving the gift of time and take a loved one out to lunch. Or order a meal in for your team as a holiday-time thank you. Here’s a local deli that has amazing Yelp reviews — the words "fresh," "delicious," "fast," and "friendly" were used multiple times — and offers both catering and dine-in lunch options that include soups, salads and sandwiches. And, best of all, it’s owned by a Dearborn Wolverine.

Bill Fricke, a 1981 CASL graduate, started the deli more than 30 years ago. He offers catered continental breakfast options, boxed lunches and party trays — delivery is free with business accounts — in addition to customer favorites like the Rueben or Italian sub. His business has grown over the past three decades, but the hard-working Wolverine can still be found behind the counter with a smile. So, if you call to place an order or stop in, tell Bill hello.

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Gulo Gulo Geeks

If you’re shopping for a pop culture fan whose tastes lean cult/geek/sci-fi, we’re not sure we could come up with a more original recommendation than some merch from Gulo Gulo Geeks. Owned by 2007 CASL grad Phillip Nulph and his wife, their Etsy shop specializes in traditional work shirts sporting arm and name badges suggestive of their favorite movies and TV shows. It’s about as insider as it gets, and sure to surprise even die-hard fans.

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Hawthorne Vineyards

When it comes to holiday giving, Hawthorne Vineyards' tasting room offers spectacular northern Michigan views of East and West Grand Traverse Bays for people looking to gift a getaway. Or, for people looking to stay at home, you can bring the taste of a Traverse City vacation to you through a Hawthorne Vineyards gift card or a membership. Winery memberships (there are different options to choose from) include shipments of seasonal wines, an invitation for a VIP winery tour, a future wine tasting for four and more.

Owned by 1971 College of Business alum Bruce Hawthorne, who has northern Michigan roots, Hawthorne Vineyards offers friendly service and finely crafted small-batch wines — Pinot Noir, Pinot Grigio, Merlot, Chardonnay, Riesling and more — made from the fruit grown on the 80-acre site. Before you raise a glass this holiday season, fill it with wine from Hawthorne Vineyards.

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Huda Beauty

Huda Beauty is one of the worlds fastest growing beauty brands and is the perfect gift for the cosmetics lover on your list. Founded by married couple Huda Kattan, ’07 B.B.A., and Christopher Goncalo, '08 M.S. Fin., Huda Beauty grew from Kattan’s background as a makeup artist turned superstar blogger and YouTuber. At its core, Huda Beauty is focused on giving their customers what they need, from new products to beauty advice. There are 30+ gift sets available for the holiday season and is the perfect place to find stocking stuffers and luxurious sets. Check out the holiday gift guide to treat someone special...or yourself!

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The Jewelry Vault

Perhaps your partner’s been hinting at a new watch or a pair of earrings. Or, maybe mom has been eyeing a charm bracelet. Bottom line is: You can never go wrong with glitzy jewelry when it comes to holiday gifts. The Jewelry Vault, a shop owned by Maissaa S. Dakhlallah, '08 B.A. & '11 M.P.P., has whatever it is you need. Head to the Dearborn shop for scintillating rings, solid gold bangles, custom necklaces and more.

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Kam's Kreations

Elevate your style with Kamryn McCutcheon's exclusive line of sustainable upcycled fashion! Crafted by hand from 100% second-hand fabric, their sweatpants and shorts not only showcase unique designs but also contribute to a greener planet. As a current ������-Dearborn student, Kamryn's commitment to eco-friendly fashion shines through in every stitch, offering you a one-of-a-kind blend of comfort, conscience, and campus chic. Join the movement towards a more sustainable wardrobe with Kamryn McCutcheon's handmade creations.

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Kelly Galea and Trinity Creative Partners LLC

Color Medium, brought to you by Kelly Galea, ‘90 B.S.A., and Trinity Creative Partners LLC, is your gateway to a more vibrant and magical life. Immerse yourself in a world of color and energy through personalized group and one-on-one readings, unlocking the secrets that hues hold for you. Elevate your journey further with their online courses and in-person workshops, curated by Kelly Galea, a visionary ������-Dearborn alum from the College of Business. Embrace the magic of a technicolor existence with Color Medium.

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Litter Robot

2012 College of Business grad Jacob Zuppke has delivered a slice of the future that is arguably just as worthwhile as any smart technology out there. His company has been making an automatic, self-cleaning, Wi-Fi-enabled litter box for a few years now, and while that may sound too good to be true, more than paint a pretty convincing picture of the Litter-Robot’s effectiveness. You never have to wield a scoop again, your cat always has a clean bed of litter — we’re not sure if this one is a gift for you, the cat lover in your life, or the cat itself. Either way, the world thanks you, Mr. Zuppke.

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Mama Got Rhythm Daddy Got Rhyme

Like many 6-year-olds, Jasmine doesn't like the music her parents listen to, so her parents decided it was time she learned her musical roots. "Mama Got Rhythm and Daddy Got Rhyme," written by Robin Wilson, '18 B.A., takes readers on a journey to discover how jazz influenced R&B music. The book tells the story of jazz through the eyes of a child. The book’s heroine, Jasmine, does not like jazz and does not understand why her parents love it so much. Read a new classic about a journey through jazz history that ends at the Jazz Hall of Fame in New York City.  

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Moon Reading Group

Welcome to Moon Reading Group, a dynamic black-owned literacy organization rooted in the rich history of literacy. Founded by Kinshasa Moon-Smith, ‘08 B.A., a proud ������-Dearborn alum, their mission is to empower black boys and girls by not just teaching literacy but by delving into its historical significance. Moon Reading Group believes in closing literacy gaps while making the learning experience enjoyable and engaging. At Moon Reading Group, they go beyond books. In addition to fostering a love for reading, they prioritize financial literacy. Through innovative initiatives like children's business fairs, they nurture young entrepreneurship and equip the next generation with essential life skills. Located in the vibrant city of Detroit, they are dedicated to building a brighter future through the power of knowledge and imagination. Join us on a journey where literacy meets empowerment at Moon Reading Group!

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Motor City Gas Whiskey

In an increasingly crowded field of quality craft spirits, psychology alum Rich Lockwood, ‘98 B.A., is serving up something that stands out. At his Royal Oak-based distillery, Lockwood is constantly experimenting with adventurous whiskeys that blend new and traditional styles, with grain from Michigan farmers. We also think it’s pretty cool that they recently began growing their own grain at their southeast Michigan farm, including many heirloom varieties long-forgotten by the big distillers. You can order bottles of their current craft offerings online and pickup at their tasting room and distillery at 325 E. 4th St. They also have gift cards. 

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Neno's Naturals

The holiday season is the perfect time for rest, relaxation and a healthy dose of self-care. Neno’s Naturals, a CBD wellness brand created by ������-Dearborn alum Narmin Jarrous, '18 CASL, is on a mission to help people feel great in their bodies and work towards real and sustainable good in the world. This Michigan-based company also donates a portion of all proceeds to nonprofits around the state to advance social and racial equity. So whether it's a CBD cream or all-natural CBD gummies, Neno’s naturals has something for the self-care lover on your list.

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Pop Daddy Snacks

If you’re anything like us, working from home looks like having one hand on your laptop and the other in a bag of snacks. Though launched well before the hybrid work schedule relegated many of us to our home offices, Pop Daddy Snacks is a line of popcorn and pretzels that takes the guilt out of snacking. Mark Sarafa, '89 B.B.A., developed the brand with the intention of creating munchies that are not only tasty, but healthy and supportive of the community, too. All products are made without preservatives, artificial flavors, additives, or gluten and ingredients are sourced from Michigan-based farms. 

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Also available on Amazon and in stores nation-wide.

Prime Party

Holiday hosting is back! For anyone in need of some extra help, Prime Party is here to entertain. Created by Paul Grekowicz Grey, ’70 B.B.A., Prime Party offers holiday gifts and party supplies covering everything from Bob Ross to Rainbows & Unicorns. Decorate your yard with outdoor signage, or recreate the classic party scene from Home Alone with your own set of cardboard cutouts. You’ll enjoy browsing the nostalgic party themes as you plan your holiday events and beyond!

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Ripple of Change

Ripple of Change is an acclaimed book, co-authored by ������-Dearborn alum Joshua Judy, ‘09 M.S., telling the story of a doctor and patient and how they persevered through a broken healthcare system. Their combined journey reveals the incredible healing power of the doctor-patient relationship, leaving the reader inspired and ready to lead positive change. The reader will discover simple solutions to seemingly complex problems in healthcare, their lives, and beyond.

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Samantha Domingue Photography

Welcome to Samantha Domingue Photography, where moments become timeless treasures. Founded by Samantha Ryan, ‘15 M.A., a dedicated wife, mother of four, and proud ������-Dearborn alum, her company is fueled by a passion for capturing the essence of family and the beauty in every individual. With a background in education and a keen eye for detail, Samantha brings patience, creativity, and a perfectionist's touch to her work. Specializing in portrait photography, Samantha Domingue Photography, LLC, goes beyond the ordinary to craft stunning visual narratives that reflect the unique personalities and stories of her clients. From the innocence of childhood to the warmth of family bonds, each image is a masterpiece, skillfully composed to freeze moments in time. Trust Samantha to turn your cherished memories into art, preserving the magic of life's fleeting moments.

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The Teatroiter

If you’ve got a tea aficionado on your list this year, consider a gift that will satisfy their appreciation for verdant, herbal, fruity or spicy blends and will support an up-and-coming small business while you’re at it. By purchasing the Tea for a Year package, you help Kristen Pfeifer, '04 B.A., get one step closer to opening the company’s first tea pub in the Detroit area. Tea for a Year includes an infuser and a 2-ounce bag the first month, then a 2-ounce bag each month for the rest of the year. Plus, the loose-leaf teas will be delivered directly to your loved one’s door!

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Teta Foods

Bring authentic flavors from around the world to your own table. Teta Foods, started by Tarek Abouljoud, ‘93 B.S.A. is a manufacturer of Middle Eastern and other ethnic salad dressings and marinades, such as Mexican and Indian sauce. The products are made with high quality ingredients and no preservatives, making it easy to cook gourmet meals in your own kitchen. Right now, nine varieties are available, including Fattoush Salad Dressing, Tahini Dressing, Shawarma Marinade, Shish Tawook Marinade, Garlic Spread, Shish Tawook Hot Sauce, Al Pastor Simmer Sauce, Tandoori Marinade, and Amba Sauce.

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TITAFIT Company

So, you’ve done the hard work of building a fitness brand — congrats! Now, it’s time for you and your team to represent your business with custom apparel designed with your unique branding. That’s where TITAFIT comes in. Founder Michael Smith, ’19 B.B.A., launched the cut-and-sew manufacturing company to simplify the process for finding a custom manufacturer in the U.S. Since 2016, Titafit has designed bespoke athletic wear for a range of fitness brands from its Detroit headquarters. With the help of Smith and his team, you can flaunt your logo on a baseball cap, keep warm in a pullover with your tagline embossed across your chest or even run errands safely with a customized face mask. The choice is yours. 

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Unexpected Craft Brewing Company

������-Dearborn alum Edward Stencel, ‘88 CASL, is not only the owner of Oak Park’s Unexpected Craft Brewing Company but the head brewer as well. Unexpected Craft Brewing Company is a craft brewery and winery that is truly unexpected. Using Michigan ingredients to make quality craft beverages, this local brewery was named one of the most amazing nanobreweries in the U.S. by Food & Wine magazine for 2015. They’ve also concocted a Peanut Butter Chocolate Stencel stout that should be on everyone’s must-try list this holiday season. You can pick up one of their original creations at their tasting room located at 14401 W. Eleven Mile Road.

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Vesey Lane Goods

Vesey Lane Goods, founded by the creative mind and University of Michigan-Dearborn graduate Robin Wilson, ‘18 B.A., is more than just a brand—it's a curator of timeless moments. Specializing in high-quality greeting cards, gifts, and home decor, they are dedicated to weaving threads of nostalgia into the fabric of your life. Their carefully crafted products are designed to honor the past, infuse the present with vibrancy, and, most importantly, cultivate memories that transcend time. With Vesey Lane Goods, every keepsake becomes a cherished chapter in the story of your life and the generations that follow.

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Walt's Pilgrimage:  A Journey in the Life of Walter Elias Disney

Love Walt Disney? Christopher Tremblay, '14 Ed.D., has written the perfect gift in "Walt’s Pilgrimage," an original place-based comprehensive biographical travel guidebook of Walt Disney's life story. The book, which chronicles the journey of the pioneer of the Disney empire, is one in a series of nine books on the fascinating life of Walt Disney. Part history, part adventure, "Walt’s Pilgrimage" features more than 70 chapters and highlights 275-plus sites throughout the United States, Canada and Mexico. Learn about significant places like Disneyland, various Walt Disney museums - and even ideas that never came to fruition, such as Mineral King and St. Louis’ proposed Riverfront Square. It’s a must-have for Disney fans.

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Many University of Michigan-Dearborn alumni and students submitted their business information to be included in this Gift Guide and we compiled this list as a service. Inclusion in this Gift Guide should not be considered an endorsement by the university for these products or services.