4/1/2017- AAF

FREE APRIL 2017

Make this their best summer yet! p10

Guns, Kids and Safety Parents and experts weigh in

p9

Easter Fun Local events and

treats that last all year

p16

VOTE NOW

Y L I M A F ORITES FAV 2016

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• April 2017 • www.annarborfamily.com

Volume 22 • Issue 4 April 2017

[special features]

Make this their best summer yet!

10

On the cover

16

commentary Diary of a Dad 18

The Madness of a Michigan Spring

The Lost and Found Cat

19

departments

comic (new) 4

community snapshots 5

And the fool’s errand of anticipating The Great Thaw

By Doug French

Food Fight 20

Mediterranean Delights Immersive tastes and atmosphere at Palm Palace

By Katy M. Clark

what’s briefly happening 6 craft of the month 17 tween the lines 8 exceptional families 8 ask the expert 9 made in michigan 18 calendar 21

— compiled by Jacqueline Bull

CORRECTION: The March issue of Ann Arbor Family included an incorrect photo cutline and photo credit. The photo on page 8 was taken by Brett Moyer. On page 19, the photo cutline in Ask the Expert should include the name Lilian Anderson, not Lilian Rice.

Online

April

Brown Paper Packages

Earth-Friendly Gift Wrap Alternatives

by Lara Krupicka

Making Spring Break Memories in Ann Arbor Ideas for your very own “staycation”

By Janice Richardson

[Always online] Find the best start for your little student

Childcare & preschool guide

new kids 7

marketplace 23

Kyle Foley, 2mo., Saline Kat Foley Photography

Candy-Free Easter Treats and Local Spring Festivities

To enter just send in a pic of your child’s best drawing of Mom to laura@adamsstreetpublishing.com or post it on the Ann Arbor Family Facebook page by May 1.

The best drawing will win a pamper package to give their mom on Mother’s Day.

FIND LIKE AND FOL LOW US

Join us and our 1000+ followers for laughs, updates & parenting discussions.

facebook.com/annarborfamily pinterest.com/annarborfamily twitter.com/annarborfamily

annarborfamily.com www.annarborfamily.com • April 2017 •

3

ARIES

Adams Street Publishing Co.

KIDS HOROSCOPE March 21April 19

By Kimmie Rose

SIGN UP TO RECEIVE OUR WEEKLY E-NEWSLETTER TO ENTER CONTESTS AND GET THE “SCOOP” ON WHAT’S HAPPEINING AROUND ANN ARBOR AND WASHTENAW COUNTY

New Mom Comics

Your little Aries is strong willed and motivated and also your little energizer bunny! Especially anxious this month as spring yields its welcoming ways, this child is tired of being cooped up inside the house and anxious to get outside and find trees to climb and dirt to dig in. A perfect time to teach that nature and humans can cooperate during this changing of the seasons, go to the library and pick up a book about Spring. By reading, you are exercising their energy in a different way while teaching them why everything outside is changing. They can burn off adventurous energy while helping you prepare the yard, a great month to teach your little Aries patience and discernment for everything in life.

Alison Wong is a mom and author of New Mom Comics, a handbook for new moms that offers a hilarious point of view on the everyday realities of parenting. For more information visit newmomcomics.com.

What’s your favorite children’s book?

Publisher/Editor in Chief

Collette Jacobs (cjacobs@toledoparent.com) The Runaway Bunny

Co-publisher/Chief Financial Officer Mark I. Jacobs (mjacobs@toledoparent.com) THE LiTTle auto

Editorial

Assignment Editor: Laura Eliason (laura@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Ping Contributing Writers: Laura Eliason, Jacqueline Bull, Katy M. Clark, Doug French, Jennifer Brough, Janice Richardson, Raegan Nelson, Heidi Alene Harris, Kimmie Rose, Jeff Klima Dr. Jennifer Salerno, Emily Qalandarova, Aimee Grant Eldon, Lara Krupicka Calendar Editor: Scott Peterson (speterson@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Where the wild things are

Digital Media Saul Jacobs (saul@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Concert Tickets and Guitars

Art/Production

Production Manager Imani Lateef (imani@adamsstreetpublishing.com) THE SnowY day Senior Designer: Leah Foley (leah@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Don’t let the Pigeon Drive The Bus. Graphic Designers: Anita Tipton (atipton@adamsstreetpublishing.com) The Ugly Duckling Kelli Miller (kmiller@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Any Goosebumps Books or other Scary Stories

Advertising

Sales Coordinator Jenny Leach (sales@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Where the Wild Things Are. Sales Representative Catherine Bohr (a2sales@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Junie B. Jones

Distribution

Anne Harrington (distribution@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Homer Price

Administration

Accounting: Robin Armstrong (rarmstrong@toledocitypaper.com) Lorax

Advertising/General Info: For advertising

and general information, call (734) 668-4044 or fax (734) 668-0555. E-mail ads to adsin@annarborfamily.com Ann Arbor Family subscriptions are available by mail for $28/quarterly or $75 per year at Ann Arbor Family, 3003 Washtenaw, Suite 3, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48104.

Letters to the editor must be limited to 300 words, are subject to editing and should include the writer’s full name and phone number.

Entire contents © 2016 by Adams Street Publishing Co. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form is prohibited without the written permission of the publisher.

Also publishers of:

Audited by

Member

recycle this paper for our children's future ...

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• April 2017 • www.annarborfamily.com

COMMUNITY

SNAPS

We love to see what the community is up to. Send your favorite pics with names, ages and hometown to production@adamsstreetpublishing.com Who knows... your photo may end up on the cover!

Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan CEO Jan Barker and local Ann Arbor-Ypsilanti Girl Scouts celebrate at the March Girl Scout Cookie Bake-off benefit.

Vinology chef Adam Galloway took home first prize in the Girl Scout Cookie Bake-off benefit

April Giveaway A machine washable rug? Genius!

Lorena Canals makes eco friendly, machine washable rugs handcrafted from 100% all natural cotton. Using nontoxic dyes to add style and personality to your home, the rugs are functional, low maintenance, and healthy for your family and the environment.

Adored by Hollywood stars including Marion Cotillard, Lisa Ling, Ashley Jones, and Chrissy Teigen, Lorena Canals brings style and function with all natural, eco friendly washable rugs and accessories.

To enter, send a fun snapshot of your family to laura@adamsstreetpublishing.com, or tag your photo with #A2kids, for our Community Snaps by April 30. Be sure to include name(s), age(s) and home city of those pictured. Or find the giveaway post on Facebook or Instagram @AnnArborFamily.

www.annarborfamily.com • April 2017 •

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Compiled by Laura Eliason and Jeff Klima

Fans of the theater experience have reason to celebrate with free movies throughout April. Continuing their Morning Family Movie Series for the spring, Goodrich Quality Theaters invites members of their Frequent Moviegoer Club (FMG) to watch any movie in the series free of charge, along with up to five guests. Not a member? No problem! Non-members will only be charged $1 per admission.

The schedule of films for April are as follows: Friday, April 7-Sunday, April 9 Kubo and the Two Strings [PG]; Friday, April 14-Sunday, April 16 Trolls [PG]; Friday, April 21-Sunday, April 23 Ice Age: Collision Course [PG]; Friday, April 28-Sunday, April 30 Sing [PG]. Films start at 10am.

Free movies!

It’s free to become a member of the FMG— sign up online at goodrichqualitytheaters.com/fmg or at the theater. Goodrich Quality Theater, 3686 Jackson Rd. 734-623-7469.

Friday, April 7, dusk to dawn and Sunday, April 9, 4-5pm. Downtown Ann Arbor. wonderfoolproductions.org. Free

Billions in kindness A donation from Michigan couple

Dan and Jill Francis, allowed Fidelity Charitable set a record for kindness in 2016. A donor-advised charity aggregator, Fidelity Charitable utilizes a one-stop fund to benefit over 200,000 charitable organizations. One of the donor charities that received a boost was the Child Care Network, which provides preschool scholarships to SE Michigan families suffering from homelessness or other life crises. The Francis’ donation, which they are able to direct with Fidelity Charitable, provides assistance to 743 children in the area, including children throughout Washtenaw County.

Child Care Network is located at 3941 Research Park Dr., Suite C. For more information call 734-975-1840 or visit their website childcarenetwork.org.

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FoolMoon and FestiFools

Are you ready for a weekend of foolish fun? Head into the streets to shake off those dark, cold winter nights at this year’s FoolMoon festival, Friday, April 7 from dusk (7:45pm-ish) to midnight. One of the coolest Ann Arbor street festivals, community members parade their luminary creations through the downtown area. Join in on the fun or just come see the lights. Free workshops will help you make your own luminary at Workantile, and the Ann Arbor District Library. See the website for full details. The fun continues Sunday, April 9 from 4-5pm with FestiFools, a HUGE-mongous public art spectacular, created by community members and U of M students. Magnificent, colorful, human-powered papier-mâché puppets join thousands of foolish friends frolicking down Main Street for one fun-filled hour!

• April 2017 • www.annarborfamily.com

A new reason to smile Celebrating two years of tooth care and repair,

the Washtenaw County Dental Clinic has announced that they will now accept ALL Medicaid plans. Only four dentists are currently accepting new Medicaid patients to serve the 24,000 adults enrolled in Washtenaw County (2012), providing a huge benefit to the area.

The 11-chair dental office accepts of all plans to benefit over 8,000 residents, including many children. “Now that everyone with a Medicaid plan is eligible for services, we’re looking forward to seeing many, many new faces at the dental clinic,” said Ellen Rabinowitz, health officer for Washtenaw County Public Health.

For more information, new patients and community members are always welcome to stop by the clinic, call patient services at 877-313-6232, or check out ewashtenaw.org/smile. Washtenaw County Dental Clinic, Haab Health Building,111 N. Huron Street, Ypsilanti.

Weekdays from 8am-4:30pm and Thursdays until 5:30 pm.

Compiled by Laura Eliason and Jeff Klima

colorstheclownandco.com • 734.428.7926 • Chelsea, MI 48118

Serving Michigan and Ohio for over 25 years

Vans and PlayLive Nation

Lifestyle brand and action sports footwear company Vans is set to open a store at Briarwood Mall this spring. A fashion and shoe staple for all ages, the popular retailer will be open next to Dry Goods, across from Victoria’s Secret. A state-of-the-art gaming experience is also set to join the Mall. PlayLive Nation is a social gaming lounge perfect for competitive gamers and novices alike. The lounge is focused on uniting like-minded players of all ages and to creating strong community-based relationships among local game enthusiasts in a clean and fun atmosphere. Located in the Sears wing of the mall next to Sephora, PlayLive Nation will open in May.

Unique to the Saline location: Open Play Space (M-F from 9-11:30am and 1-3 pm) Great location for a field trip for your preschool, daycare or lower elementary school s Host rentals for special events & birthday parties.

Retail Swap

Two Michigan companies have found a way to coexist— and perhaps kicked off an enterprising new way of running small businesses. Sun & Snow, a company offering outdoor recreational gear doesn’t sell a lot of snowboards in summer. That creates a perfectly good span of storefront space that isn’t getting used for half the year. So they decided to partner with D&D Bicycles and Hockey to share the brick-and-mortar location.

When one is off-season, the other sets up their wares to take advantage of the space at a fair cost.The businesses will run an 80/20 split of the storefront.

Sun & Snow, D&D Bicycles and Hockey, 3780 Jackson Rd. Monday-Friday, 10am-7pm, Saturday, 10am-6pm, Sunday, 12-5pm. 734-522-9410. ddbicyclesandhockey.com. sunandsnow.com

Sozo Japanese Grill

Briarwood Mall welcomed their newest restaurant addition in February: Sozo Japanese Grill. Located next to Tricho Salon and Spa in the JC Penney wing, Sozo Japanese Grill is a fast-casual, hibachi-style restaurant serving traditional Japanese fare with a fresh, modern twist.

The restaurant is owned and operated

by Sky Chen, the restaurateur behind three other southeast-Michigan favorites, including Ichiban in Ann Arbor.

Sozo Japanese Grill, Briarwood Mall, 100 Briarwood Cir. Monday-Saturday, 10:30am-9pm, Sunday, 10:30am-6pm. 734-213-6019. ordersozogrill.com

Washtenaw Commons Growing

The popular Washtenaw Commons Ann Arbor shopping center is gaining two new retailers this spring. Jamba Juice, was scheduled to open March 20, and Dickey’s Barbecue Pit, set to begin dishing out Texas-style, fast and casual BBQ in May, recently announced their move into Ann Arbor.

www.annarborfamily.com • April 2017 •

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THE LINES TWEEN advice for parents with children 10-16

Your Tween May Experience Higher Levels of Stress Than You Tried-and-true parenting tips for talking to tweens about stress

By Dr. Jennifer Salerno

During my career working with adolescents as director of the University of Michigan’s school-based health center program, a surprisingly common theme among tweens was their intense levels of stress. Unfortunately, many adults tend to blow off the seriousness or validity of tween stress, often considering their problems insignificant. It’s important to remember the changes happening in tweens’ bodies, with their emotions and in their brains.

These changes, coupled with the demands of school, social life and family obligations, can make any tween feel out of control.

Outstressing adults

Tweens often experience higher levels of stress than adults. A study of more than 1,000 tweens revealed an average stress score of 5.8 on a 10-point scale– with 3.9 being a healthy level of stress. The research team at Possibilities for Change continues to validate stress as a major issue among tweens, as 13 percent of nearly 4,000 tweens surveyed indicated they had serious problems or worries at home or school. Additionally, one in every five tweens indicated they often feel sad and had nothing to look forward to during the past month.

In the face of these challenges, parents need concrete strategies to open the doors of communication with their tweens to establish strong, trusting relationships as they enter into their teen years. It’s important your tween feels like he or she can open up to you about feelings of anxiety and depression instead of resorting to risky behaviors like prescription drug abuse, underage drinking, self-harm or suicide.

Coping techniques

Three tried-and-true techniques used by clinicians to engage their tween patients, which also work well (if not better) for parents who want to have real conversations with their tweens about feelings of stress.

1 Ask permission. Sounds counterintuitive, but a normal part of tween

development is their struggle for control. Getting the OK to talk makes tweens more open to hearing the information you want to share. Start with something like, “When is a good time to talk about all the things you’re juggling right now like soccer, homework and your group project coming up?”

2 Use empathy. A simple reflection that shows empathy goes a long way.

“You had a hard day at school today. It must be stressful dealing with everything you have going on.” The choice of words is critical. Anything too extreme or too overstated may be perceived as sarcastic instead of empathetic.

3 Ask open-ended questions. Not easily answered with a “Yes” or “No” that immediately closes the conversation, ask questions that lead tweens into telling you what they need to feel better. Perhaps ask, “What do you need to help manage your stress right now?” or “What changes could you make to decrease your stress?”

With a little bit of practice, you will be well on your way to opening the door to conversations that help your tween overcome feelings of stress and have a successful school year. These strategies and others are outlined in more detail the book Teen Speak, released this past fall.

Dr. Jennifer Salerno is the author of Teen Speak and founder of Possibilities for Change.

A University of Michigan alum, Dr. Salerno likes to take walks around the campus, and enjoy happenings in downtown Ann Arbor.

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• April 2017 • www.annarborfamily.com

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Posing for Autism

Local Doctoral student studies benefits of yoga in children

By Emily Qalandarova

While the popularity of yoga has surged in the US, little is known about its benefits for children on the autism spectrum. Morgan Wright, Doctoral Fellow in Clinical Psychology at Eastern Michigan University, decided to help fill that information void.

An uncommon intervention for a common diagnosis

Although the official estimate of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is 1 in 68, Wright discovered a need for a yoga research study due to “a lack of interventions for children with ASD, specifically targeted at improving motor skills and increasing physical activity.”

She noted that autistic children are often more sedentary, not being involved in as many activities as their typicallydeveloping peers. Having practiced yoga for many years, and with her interest in ASD, Wright says, “I wanted to develop an intervention that would improve motor skills and be fun for children.”

Notable progress and fun

As part of the study, Wright works individually with each child, catering to their needs to determine what works best for varied interests, strengths, challenges, and levels of functioning. Jennifer Clark, whose 10-year-old son participates in the research study, states “we are always looking for different ways of improving how he deals with being on the spectrum.” Since working with Wright, she has witnessed improvements with her son’s balance issues, as well as his fine motor skills.

Wright also points to yoga’s ability to help autistic children become more engaged and have fun by including yoga in their routine. Routines can be valuable to children with ASD and yoga often serves as a perfect match. “The poses can be organized in a distinct pattern, so the children know what to expect during each session,” notes Wright. When her study started, participants depended on visual and verbal cues when attempting a pose.

Through time, practice, and repetition Wright has noticed her participants taking initiative and now leading the poses.

While progress is loosely defined, Wright sees positive reactions and enhanced engagement from her participants. One child imagines each session as

Local PhD student Morgan Wright is bringing her love of yoga to children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. a new episode of their “yoga show”. Progressing through poses, the child enjoys giving designations such as, “Action!” and “Cut!”, as on a TV show. Another child in Wright’s study is upfront about his physical limitations and asks for assistance when needed. With each session, Wright notices a strengthening rapport and greater social engagement which “suggests that activities like yoga may improve areas beyond the motor skills targeted by the intervention.”

Potential benefits of yoga

In fact, increased social-communication skills are just one of many potential benefits of yoga for children with autism.

Other possible positive outcomes are greater awareness and expression of emotions, reduced anxiety, increased body awareness, and a more well defined sense of self. As Wright continues her study, she hopes to continually see improvements with the childrens’ strength and balance, as well as a reduction in anxiety and other psychological difficulties.

If you have a child on the autism spectrum between the ages of 6-12, who is interested in participating in the research study, contact Morgan Wright at mwrigh57@emich.edu.

Ask the Expert Guns, Kids, and Safety Local parents and experts weigh-in

By Jennifer Brough

Note: Last names have been withheld from this piece to preserve privacy.

“Do you have guns in your house?” is the first question Mary, a young mom of two in Chelsea asks of friends, neighbors and childminders. If the answer is yes, then Mary probes further to ensure the guns and any ammunition are locked away safely from her kids.

Mary says, “It can be a difficult subject to raise, so sometimes it’s best to invite the other family to your house first and let them know that you don’t own guns.”

And she adds, “My friends and family know if they are carrying, they have to hand the gun to me to lock in our safe before entering our house.”

“I was raised in a family of hunters and at about twelve, I learned how to safely handle guns. The issue is not with safe gun owners.” says Mary. “If people are trained well in gun safety, there shouldn’t be a problem.” She adds that kids are naturally inquisitive. They want to explore everything new, but a gun left around kids can end in disaster. “If they come across anything to do with guns, we tell them to leave the room, inform an adult and ask to come home immediately.”

Golden rules for gun safety

Bethany Folsum, Health Educator in the Pediatric Trauma/Injury Prevention program at Ann Arbor’s C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital agrees wholeheartedly with Mary’s plan of action. “I have a dual role with C.S. Mott and Safe Kids of Huron Valley. Working closely with local law enforcement agencies, we act to raise kids awareness on safety.”

Golden Rules for kids who do find guns or ammunition:

STOP DON’T TOUCH LEAVE THE AREA CALL AN ADULT

Also, parents:

TALK TO YOUR CHILDREN ABOUT GUN SAFETY

DON’T BE AFRAID TO ASK ABOUT THE PRESENCE OF GUNS IN A HOUSE THE CHILDREN ARE VISITING

Folsum reiterates Mary’s thoughts that kids are naturally curious. “Guns are a reality for them: they see them in stores, they might live within a hunting community where guns are evident, and the people they look up to, police officers,

in particular who are ironically there to protect them, carry guns. Concealed and open carry laws support that situation.

Parents and kids working together on safety is vital, but ensuring that gun owners are being responsible is also key.”

Gun owners are advised to:

DISMANTLE, EMPTY AND STORE WEAPONS IN A LOCKED AREA

STORE AMMUNITION IN A SEPARATE LOCKED AREA

ENSURE THAT A RESPONSIBLE ADULT IS IN COMPLETE CONTROL OF THE KEYS AND COMBINATIONS OF THE LOCKED AREA

Susan, a mom of two teenagers in Chelsea, notes that her husband keeps guns in the house. “Whether she knew that or not, I’ve had a mom check me out as a parent before. It’s a bit odd, but I was OK with it.

They were doing the right thing. Maybe we, as parents, are overprotective of our kids, but keeping alcohol, drugs and guns, out of any kid’s reach is critical. As for my husband’s guns - they are locked in a gun safe inside a locked room and he is the only person in control of the keys.”

There is no recall on tragedy

Alison, a mom of two young teenagers in Ann Arbor notes, “When I was about eleven, my girlfriend and I found a gun in her house and inquisitively examined it.

It scared the heck out of me. I’ve been anti gun ever since. Now with my kids going on visits to friends’ homes, I ask whether they have allergies, an epipen, etc., as well as whether they have guns in the house.

It’s an uncomfortable question, but you can’t do a recall on a tragic occurrence involving a gun.”

Carole, a mom of two teenagers in Dexter adds, “It feels weird to ask the question about guns in the house, but when you are entrusting others with your child’s life, it makes sense.”

If you think it won’t happen

Tom, a dad in Ypsilanti, with two youngsters notes, “We don’t leave our kids anywhere without also being there and getting to know the people we are visiting.” Keeping guns safely away from kids, no matter their age, is vital.

The best way to prevent gun accidents?

Arm yourself with knowledge.

www.annarborfamily.com • April 2017 •

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Check out these fabulous camps and let the fun begin!

By Laura Eliason

Camp PAWS (Pets Are Worth Saving) Humane Society of Huron Valley – 3100 Cherry Hill Rd. humaneed@hshv.org hshv.org/camppaws Age Range: 6-11 Staff/Camper Ratio: Minimum 1:10 Dates/Times: Monday – Friday, 9am–4pm; June 1-23, July 3-7, Aug 14-18 Cost: $285 ($225 for 4-day camp week of July 3)

When school is out Ann Arbor Family has you covered with a list of great local camps to keep kids engaged and having fun all summer long.

Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission Meri Lou Murray Recreation Center 2960 Washtenaw Ave 734-971-6355 Independence Lake County Park 3200 Jennings Rd., Whitmore Lake 734-449-4437 Rolling Hills County Park 7660 Stony Creek Rd., Ypsilanti 734-484-9676 parks.ewashtenaw.org

Age Range: Grade 1-age 11 Staff/Camper Ratio: 1:10 Dates/Time: One week sessions start June 19 and run Monday-Friday, 9:15am-4:15pm. One hour of precare and postcare are available for an additional fee.

Varsity Day Camp

3420 Cordley Lake Rd., Pinckney 734-878-3515 Info@varsitydaycamp.com varsitydaycamp.com

What to Expect: Animals, animals, animals! This fun-filled camp includes visits from animal rescue groups and daily interactions with adoptable animals, games, humane education and more. Campers will need to bring a sack lunch and drink each day; HSHV will provide an afternoon snack and T-shirt. Campers can attend for two weeks if they wish, as topics will change. After care from 4-5 p.m. is also available for an additional fee.

Cost: $150-$165 per-week, depending on camp location

Age Range: Boys and girls, ages 6-13

What to Expect: Washtenaw County Parks offers three camps featuring age-appropriate activities and exciting learning experiences. Your child will have the opportunity to participate in swimming, nature hikes, craft projects, games and more. The fee includes a t-shirt, park entrance, a Friday snack and hotdog lunch. Visit parks. ewashtenaw.org for more information.

Staff/Camper Ratio: Average ratio fluctuates between 1:4 and 1:10 depending on activity

That’s Cool!: Not only will you engage with animals through toys you make, treats you give and tricks you learn, but also you’ll take a field trip to another local rescue. Bark! Meow!

Dates/Times: June 19 - August 4, daily 8:45am4:20pm. Before care is available from 7-8:20am, and aftercare from 4:20-6pm. Please see website for drop off, pick up and orientation times.

Camp PAWS, Jr (Pets Are Worth Saving)

That’s Cool!: Be sure to pack their bathing suit, towel, water shoes, goggles, and Coast Guard approved life vest — we swim every day!

Cost: $40/day, lunch included What to Expect: A full fun day, with water sports, nature, Red Cross Swimming Program, arts & crafts, baseball, etc. Our campers choose their activities!!!

That’s Cool!: Varsity Day Camp was started in 1950

by Martha and Whiz Wisniewski, known as Mr. & Mrs Whiz. Camp is now run by the 7 Whiz Kids, Anne, Mary, Pat, Mike, John, Jane and Clare. Varsity Day Camp is a traditional day camp; campers make new friends, have wonderful experiences, and come away with memories & stories to last a lifetime!

Humane Society of Huron Valley 3100 Cherry Hill Rd. humaneed@hshv.org hshv.org/camppaws Age Range: 4-5 Staff/Camper Ratio: 1:5

Dates/Times: Monday-Friday, 9am–noon; June 12-16, July 24-28 Cost: $115 What to Expect: Five fun-filled mornings that will surely make your tail wag! Young campers will enjoy stories, games and crafts focused on how to care for and respect our animal friends. And they’ll get to visit the adoptable animals, too—including kittens, dogs, rabbits and small mammals. HSHV will provide a small snack each day.

That’s Cool!: Campers will receive a paw-tastic Camp PAWS T-shirt along with other animal-themed goodies throughout the week!

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• April 2017 • www.annarborfamily.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Saline Parks & Recreation Kids Camp Saline Rec Center 1866 Woodland Dr., Saline 734-429-3502 cityofsaline.org/park

Camp DoYaWanna Wild Swan Theater 6175 Jackson Rd. 734-995-0530 wildswantheater.org

Ages: 5-12

Ages: 4-12; however camps are catered to certain age groups.

Staff/Camper Ratio: 1:10

Staff/Camper Ratio: No more than 1:6

Dates & Times: Monday-Friday, June 19-September 1 from 7am-6pm

Dates & Times: June 26-30: Let’s Pretend, 10am-12pm July 10-14: Rainbow Crow, 9:30am-1pm

Cost: The best value is to sign up for the full week. The weekly rate is $190 for Rec Center members, $230 for non-members. Sign up early and save an additional $15 per week. Sibling discounts are also available on weekly rates. For those families who need a little more flexibility, single day registrations are available: $50/$65 per-day.

What to Expect: Campers who attend the Saline Parks & Rec Summer Camp can expect an action filled summer full of friends and fun. We will swim, create, explore and play. With the camp based out of the Saline Rec Center and Tefft Park, there are endless opportunities for games and activities. Parents can expect an exceptional program that is fun, flexible, affordable and led by trained and enthusiastic staff. For a schedule of weekly activities, weekly field trips as well as the parent handbook and camper forms, go to cityofsaline.org/parks.

That’s Cool!: Camper favorites each year include the annual egg drop contest, sand castle building contests, dance parties, ga-ga ball tournaments and our field trips!

July 17–July 21: Once Upon a Time, 10am-12pm July 24–July 28: Trickster Tales, 9:30am12:30pm

Hands to Homestead Day Camp

June 26-30 • July 10-14 & 17-21 • August 14-18 & 21-25

Use hands and hearts to appreciate the world around us!

• Grind grain to make bread • Churn butter • Collect eggs • Storytelling • Nature walks and more!

Ages 5-14

Wild Apple Farms wildapplefarms.com/hands-to-homestead-summer-day-camp amyramsey22@aol.com | 734-426-WILD | Dexter, MI

July 31–August 4: African Arts, 9:30am12:30pm August 7–August 11: Broadway Bound!, 9:30am-12:30pm

Summer Theatre Academy on the University of Michigan campus

August 14–August 18: It’s Greek to Me!, 9:30am-12:30pm Cost: $110-$185 What to Expect: Wild Swan Theater drama camps are fun experiences where kids can feel safe and comfortable exploring the imaginative world of theater. Our main goal is that every camper has a great time cultivating their creativity and leaves camp feeling successful. With a new theme every week, activities will include warm-ups, theater games, and improvisations that bring people together in a nurturing, memorable way. Some weeks will also include craft activities such as making props and costume pieces.

That’s Cool!: Each week culminates in a special performance created, costumed, and designed by the campers for their friends and family!

Cont’d on p12

July 10 - July 21, 2017 Grades 3-12

Registration Open!

Visit our website for more information and registration:

aayag.org/summer-theatre-academy.html contact@aayag.org (734) 926-5629

s Well-rounded performing arts experience. s Professional instruction each morning in the theatrical arts while afternoons are devoted to rehearsals, costuming and scene construction. s Final performances on-stage at Washtenaw Community College

s s s s s s s s s s s s

www.annarborfamily.com • April 2017 •

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION Cont’d FROM p11

Ann Arbor YMCA 400 W. Washington St. 734-996-9622 annarborymca.org Ages: 5-16 Staff/Camper Ratio: 8:1 Dates & Times: The Ann Arbor YMCA offers ten weeks of full and half-day camps for kids ages 5–16 at the downtown Ann Arbor YMCA facility and at Camp Birkett on Silver Lake in Dexter. Weekly sessions of Camp Birkett run from June 19-August 25. In-building day camps and half-day camps have weekly sessions running from June 19-September 1. Camp Al-Gon-Quian, an overnight camp in Burt Lake, has weekly sessions running from June 24-August 27.

Cost: Price varies. Financial assistance is available.

What to Expect: The Ann Arbor YMCA strives to foster kids’ curiosity. Rooted in caring, honesty, respect and responsibility, their holistic approach works wonders, preparing kids for life, one fantastic summer at a time.

They are here to make your kids feel welcome. Their highly-trained staff helps campers realize that the Y is a place where they belong and can be themselves while trying new things, building new skills and making new friends. Camp Birkett, an ACA-accredited program, provides a traditional camp experience (transportation to and from Ann Arbor available), and is the perfect place for your child to explore the summer outdoors. The YMCA also has a wide variety of sports and specialty camps from Physics to Fishing or Bowling to Basketball as well as service learning opportunities and more for teens. Pre and post care is offered for campers at the downtown location.

The full brochure of offerings is at annarborymca.org.

That’s Cool!: The Y has several opportunities for teens ages 12-16, including Babysitter Boot Camp, Teen Adventure: a traditional full-day camp where each day teens travel and embark on new adventures including river trips, and challenge courses, Bizology: a perfect camp for young entrepreneurs and innovative problem solvers, and Media Madness, a hands-on opportunity for teens to create social change in their community through the art of video production. They also have the award-winning Youth Volunteer Corps program which offers service-learning opportunities all summer long.

Daycroft Montessori School Elementary Campus 1095 N. Zeeb Rd. 734-930-0333 daycroft.org (click on the Programs tab) Age Range: Kindergarten-Grade 8 Staff/Camper Ratio: 1:12 Dates/Time: 9 weeks, June 12-August 18. from 9am4:15pm. Free before-camp care is from 8-9 am. After-camp care available until 5 pm for a small fee.

Cost: $245 to $295 for one week, depending on the subject of the camp What to Expect: Creative exploration of art, STEM, robotics, martial arts, baking, chess, theater, LEGO building, dance, and world culture themes in addition to sprinkler water activities.

That’s Cool!: Make new friends!! Open to all students despite their current school enrollment. Preschool camps are also available at their Oakbrook campus.

Game Start

2765 Plymouth Rd. 734-926-9213 gamestartschool.org Age Range: Grades 1-8 Staff/Camper Ratio: N/A Dates/Time: Half Day (grades 1-3): 9am-Noon. Full Day (grades 3-8): 9am-4pm. Camp runs June 19 to August 28. Visit their website for more details.

Cost: $149 (Half Day) or $399 (Full Day) What to Expect: Half Day – The students will learn the fundamentals of computer science using Minecraft in the morning. Full Day – The students will learn the fundamentals of computer science using Minecraft in the morning. Following lunch at 11:30am, students will participate in an outdoor activity at the nearby Bromley Park. The afternoon will include more game design and development with the week’s special topic, a healthy snack provided by GameStart, and some free gaming time.

That’s Cool!: GameStart camps gives students grade 1–12 the chance to experience the full spectrum of art, animation, design, and programming‌whether it’s one day at a time or a week at a time. Computer programming, video game art and design, coding, virtual reality, and 3D printing are all explored at GameStart.

Cont’d on p14

Summer Kids Camp

June 19 – September 1 Ages 5-12

• inside games • outdoor adventures • swimming Caring and trained staff! • ďŹ eld trips So much to do at the Saline Rec Center! • crafts and more!

Convenient, exible scheduling, affordable

Ď‘Ď?ĎŽ ĎŽĎŒĎ“ Ď?Ď?ĎŠĎŒÔ‡%Ô‡Ĺ†ĹŒĹ—ĹœĹ’Ĺ‰Ĺ–Ĺ„Ĺ?ĹŒĹ‘Ĺˆ"Ĺ’Ĺ•ĹŠ Ĺ“Ĺ„Ĺ•ĹŽĹ–

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• April 2017 • www.annarborfamily.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

www.annarborfamily.com • April 2017 •

13

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION Cont’d FROM p12

St. Paul Ann Arbor Summer Camps 495 Earhart Rd. 734-665-0604 school.stpaulannarbor.org/news-events/ summer-camp-2017 rpotts@stpaulannarbor.org Age Range: Completed Kindergarten - Grade 8 Staff/Camper Ratio: 1:15 or less Dates/Times: June 12 - August 18 Cost: A range between $90 (half-day) and $275 (full-day) What to Expect: Exciting half-day and full-day camps for all ages and all interests! Our adventurous camps include golf, Minecraft, ArtSplosion, robotics, basketball, computer coding, Harry Potter, mask making, Spanish, Chinese, and even a super hero camp!

That’s Cool!: We have one of a kind camps found nowhere else! They are taught by energetic teachers, parents and professionals who are passionate about their programs. We offer the flexibility of half- and full-day classes in a variety of areas like science, sports, technology and art. Your child is guaranteed to have a fun and memorable camp experience!

Peachy Fitness

2385 S. Huron Pkwy.

734-681-0477 info@peachyfitness.com peachyfitness.com/summer-camps-annarbor Age Range: 5-14. Camps are age specific.

Staff/Camper Ratio: Varies Dates/Times: August 7-11: Meditation, Movement, Music & Mandalas!, 9am-4pm August 14-18: Dance, Fiesta & Spanish Camp!, 9am-4pm August 21-25: Dance Around the World in 5 Days!, 9am-4pm Cost: $199/week. Friend/sibling discount rate is $175/ child.

What to Expect: Each week will feature an exciting range of activities on the theme. In the first week children will express their creativity through movement, music and mandala-making while keeping them healthy, active and engaged. Then, in the next week, get ready for an energy packed week with a combination of world dance experiences and spanish vocabulary. The final camp week will help your kids pack their travel suitcase and issue them the passports to enter into a world of fun and fitness! Each day, boys and girls will experience international music, learn cultural dances, create arts & crafts from five amazing countries in the world.

That’s Cool!: Each week of camp has a fantastically fun theme with cool activities to match!

Washtenaw County Parks Summer Day Camps U OFFERING CAMP AT THREE LOCATIONS FOR CHILDREN Grade 1 through age 11 U ONE-WEEK SESSIONS STARTING JUNE 19TH Monday-Friday · 9:15am-4:15pm (One-hour pre- or post-care available for extra fee) For more information: Independence Lake County Park 734.449.4437 · $150/week, 9 weeks 3200 Jennings Rd., Whitmore Lake

Group games, arts and crafts, nature programs, fishing, swimming, and more!

Meri Lou Murray Recreation Center 734.971.6355 · $165/week, 8 weeks 2960 Washtenaw Ave., Ann Arbor (Includes 2 field trips; $10 discount for annual members) Rolling Hills County Park 734.484.9676 $150/week, 10 weeks 7660 Stony Creek Rd., Ypsilanti Twp.

Register at parksonline.ewashtenaw.org

(Fee includes T-shirt, park entrance, and Friday hotdog lunch)

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• April 2017 • www.annarborfamily.com

FAMILY ES FAVORIT 2016

VOTE NOW!

Doctor’s Orders Pediatric practice

Boutique Beauty

Emergency care

Kids’ clothing store

Birthing classes

Maternity clothing store

OB/GYN

Time to Party

Place for furnishing the nursery

Midwife

Baby boutique shop

Doula

Place for a birthday bash

Local toy store

Family doctor

Place to buy a birthday cake

Mom-owned business

ENT doctor

Family-friendly entertainer

Family photographer

Optometrist / Ophthalmologist

Place to buy birthday decorations

Place to buy sports equipment

Chiropractor

Or vote online at ANNARBORFAMILY.com!

Family photographer

Favorite Places and Spaces

Allergist

The Digital Age

Dentist Orthodontist

Local parent blogger

Family activity

Local parent Facebook group

Place to read

Local Instagram account

Place to worship Place for a birthday bash Museum Fair or festival Place for a picnic Place to volunteer Animal encounters Tween activity Garden and nature center Bowling alley Local toy store Garden and nature center

Delicious Eats Cupcakes/Bakery/Sweet shop Family-friendly restaurant Ice cream shop Local pizza place Place where kids eat free

Rules: 1. You may only vote once. 2. No answer should be repeated more than three times. 3. A minimum of 20 questions must be answered for your ballot to be eligible. 4. Your name and email address must be included. 5. No ballot stuffing! No photocopies! (We will discard any ballots that we suspect are fraudulently submitted.)

Deadline: Friday, May 26, 2017, 5 p.m.

Place to give birth

Veterinarian

Get Active

Watch Me Soar

Place to go ice skating

Preschool

Place to go roller skating

Tutoring center

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Teacher and their school

Park or playground

Elementary school

Indoor playspace

Middle school

Waterpark

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Family-friendly gym

Private/parochial school

Biking trail

After-school program

Martial arts program

Special needs services

Swim lessons

Daycare

Baby swim lessons

Babysitting/Nannying service

Sports camp

Enrichment Activities

Summer day camp

All About Us

Acting and Theatre classes Dance class Kids art class

Favorite thing about Ann Arbor Family

Gymnastics class

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Best Ann Arbor Family column

Martial arts program Swim lessons Horseback riding lessons Youth sports league Traveling sports club league

vote online annarborfamily.com

NAME: ________________________________________________________ ADDRESS: _____________________________________________________ CITY/STATE/ZIP: ______________________________________________

EMAIL: ________________________________________________________ Please mail completed ballots to 3003 Washtenaw Ave., Suite 3 Ann Arbor, Michigan 48104

ADVERTISERS

RESERVE SPACE NOW! 734.668.4044 or email sales@adamsstreetpublishing.com Space reservation deadline June 15th Winners announced in the July issue of Ann Arbor Family Press

www.annarborfamily.com • April 2017 •

15

Candy Free Easter Treats

Alternatives for your baskets

By Janice Richardson

Chocolate bunnies, jelly beans, and more sugary treats, Easter’s here!

Before you load your kids baskets with candy, consider some of these alternatives that won’t give your young ones a sugar high. Bonus - once all the chocolate is gone, these toys will still be around to play with!

Ann Arbor Family’s list of local egg hunts, spring activities, and Easter bunny visits.

Compiled by Laura Eliason and Jacqueline Bull

April 1

Easter Eggstravaganza Canton Bring the kids out to enjoy a variety of Easter and spring-themed activities!

The City of Canton will run continuous egg hunts between 10:30am-12:30pm in two age categories to help keep the “hunting” fair for even our littlest participants. Allow extra time for parking-historically this is a well-attended event. Check out cantonfun.org for a complete schedule of events. Tickets will be sold day of the event, no preregistration is necessary. Ages 11 and under.

Saturday, April 1. 10:30am-12:30pm. $3/ resident child, $4/non-resident child. Summit on the Park, 46000 Summit Pkwy., Canton.

734-394-5376. cantonfun.org

Hurricane Reusable Water Balls This summer, make tying water balloon knots a thing of the past! Hurricane Reusable Water Balls are soft silicone rubber balls that self-seal and fill in seconds when submerged in water. Upon impact the water bursts out, soaking your target. They can withstand more than1000 throws.

Ages 5+. $9.99. fatbraintoys.com

April 14-15

PLAYMOBIL Bunny Barn Carry Case - All your little one needs to set up a bunny farm including one figurine, four bunnies, a bunny hutch and other accessories such as a fence and bunny food. Set up your bunnies’ home and let your imagination free. $9.99. Learning Express

Playfoam Sparkle 4-Pack A tactile toy that never dries out! Playfoam Sparkle provides hours of creative play. The playfoam can be squashed and squished, molded and shaped. The no-stick formula will not leave a residue behind. Ages 3-6. $4.99. educationalinsights.com

Playgro Shape Sorting Flower Puzzle - Perfect for spring, this colorful 22-piece puzzle encourages your child to learn various shapes, practice trial and error and develop special reasoning.

The happy flower is the center of the puzzle with each petal being a different color with a different shape.

Children learn to sort the shapes as they put the petals on the flower. For ages 12-36 months. $14.99. amazon.com

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Make this Easter Eggs-ceptional!

• April 2017 • www.annarborfamily.com

Bunnyville Detroit Zoo An “egg-stravaganza” of family fun is planned for the Detroit Zoo’s annual Bunnyville celebration. Featuring a golden egg hunt with more than 100 eggs hidden throughout the Zoo, the Jelly Bean Jamboree, whisker painting and photo opportunities with the Easter Bunny. Free with price of Zoo admission.

Bunnyville visitors are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item to be donate to receive a reduced admission price, parking not included.

Friday, April 14-Saturday, April 15. 9am-3pm.

Free with price of admission. Detroit Zoo, 8450 W. 10 Mile Rd., Royal Oak. 248-541-5717. detroitzoo.org Breakfast with the Bunny Toledo Zoo You are invited to celebrate the spring season at the Toledo Zoo’s Breakfast with the Bunny event. Kids can enjoy an exciting egg hunt in the morning, take photos with the bunny, and enjoy a great breakfast with family. The morning starts at 9am with an Easter egg hunt followed by a visit with the Easter Bunny and other animal encounters from 9:30-11am. A yummy breakfast will be served from 9:30am-11am. Reservations are required. Free for children under 2.

Friday, April 14-Saturday, April 15. 9-11am. $28/child ages 2-11, $38/adult, ages 12 and up. Toledo Zoo, 2 Hippo Way, Toledo. 419-3855721. toledozoo.org/breakfast-with-the-bunny

April 15

Springfest Saline Join the Saline Rec Center on Saturday, April 15 for a fun day of Spring and Easter festivities. There will be four fun events: an egg scavenger hunt (11:30am), pizza lunch with the Easter Bunny (12pm), the Hippity Hoppity Trail (12-1pm), and an egg

dive (1pm). Each event is ticketed and priced between $6-$10 depending on when you register. Purchase tickets in advance, tickets will only be available for purchase on the day of the event if they are not sold out. Register online at salinerec.com or in person at the Saline Rec Center.

Saturday, April 15. 11:30am-1:30pm. $6-$10.

Register in advance. Saline Rec Center, 1866 Woodland Dr, Saline. 734-429-3502. cityofsaline.org 7th Annual Easter Eggstravaganza Dexter The City of Dexter will host the 7th Annual Easter Eggstravaganza on Saturday, April 15. Come for a fun-filled family experience with egg scrambles, pictures with the Easter Bunny, and face painting! The Easter Bunny will be at the park from 10am – 12pm, and the Easter egg scrambles will begin promptly at 10:30am. To purchase advance tickets, visit the Dexter City Office at 8123 Main St., Second Floor of the PNC bank building.

Saturday, April 15. 10am-12pm. $2/child or $4/ two or more children in advance. $3/child or $5/two or more children day of. Community Park, 3575 Ryan Dr., Dexter. 734-580-2234. jbreyer@dextermi.gov.

Spring Eggstravaganza Pittsfield Township Pittsfield Township Parks & Recreation and Ann Arbor Jaycees are co-sponsoring this Spring Eggstravaganza complete with an eggstravaganza egg hunt, a small petting zoo, balloon twisters, face painting, games and crafts. The egg scrambles will start at 11:30 am, 12pm, and 12:30pm. This event is planned for kids ages 10 and under. Extra parking will be available at 6201 W. Michigan Ave. with bus shuttles to Lillie Park.

Saturday, April 15. 11am-1pm. Lillie Park South, 4365 Platt Rd. Free Flop-E-Bunny Easter Candy Hunt Belleville The Belleville Central Business Community will host their annual Easter Candy Hunt at Victory Park in Belleville.

The day will include four different hunts for different age groups: 12:15 pm (toddler-3 years), 12:30pm (4-5 years), 12:45pm (6-7 years), 1pm (8-10 years).

There will also be photo opportunities with the Flop-E-Bunny available from 12-2pm.

Saturday April 15. 12-2pm. Victory Park, S. Liberty St., Belleville. bellevillecbc.org/easter. html Free

Craft of the Month S K

d n a y n n Bu s t o P k Chic

◆ BE KNOWN ◆ GET OUT IN THE WORLD ◆ ◆ PREPARE FOR LIFE ◆ FIND YOUR PASSION ◆

Bring spring inside with this fun craft

By Raegan Nelson

Easter crafts are a great way to welcome in the spring season. These bunny and chick pots are the perfect craft activity to do with your children. Not only are they a cute decoration, they also serve a greater purpose—to store all the delicious treats we collect during this season!

Supplies: • Small ceramic pots • Yellow and white craft paint • Foam paper (pink, white, and orange) • Craft paper (pink and orange) • Yellow pipe cleaners • Googly eyes • Glue & Scissors • Black marker • Candy to fill pots

Chick Instructions: • Paint the pot yellow.

• Cut two circles out of orange paper for the chick’s cheeks.

• Using the orange foam paper, cut a triangle for the nose and two chick feet.

• Using the yellow pipe cleaners, create three sets of wings (I used two pipe cleaners for each set). Shape them into ovals and twist together at the ends to secure.

• Glue on cheeks, googly eyes, nose, and feet to the front of the pot. Glue the wings to the back of the pot (hot glue works best to keep these secure).

• With the black marker, add any finishing touches to the chick (eye lashes, outlines, etc.).

Bunny Instructions: • Paint the pot white.

• Using the white foam paper, cut two large • bunny ears and two bunny feet.

• Using the pink paper, cut two smaller bunny ears, a triangle nose, and two circles for the cheeks.

• Glue on cheeks, googly eyes, nose, and feet to the pot.

• Glue pink bunny ears on top of the white ears and secure to the front, inside of the pot.

• With the black marker, add any finishing touches to the bunny (whiskers, mouth, etc.).

-JGF1PJOU $IVSDI Easter Worship: Apr. 16 s 10:30am Free Community Easter Egg Hunt Apr. 16 s 11:30am Egg Hunt/Petting Zoo, Easter Eggs, Gift Bags, Free family pictures with Easter Bunny

3980 Research Park Dr. s Ann Arbor, MI 48108 www.experiencelifepoint.org

www.annarborfamily.com • April 2017 •

17

The Madness of a Michigan Spring

And the fool’s errand of anticipating The Great Thaw

By Doug French

There is major madness in Michigan, as is common in Spring. By this point in the calendar, most of us parents have been housebound and sun-deprived for months, gobbling Vitamin D to avoid snapping like Jack Nicholson in a garden maze. Our kids have already outgrown all their winter clothes and lost a few dozen gloves, which you can’t replace because the stores are already stocked with Bermuda shorts. We’ve been resisting the urge to throw our hands up and tell our quarrelsome offspring to “TAKE IT OUTSIDE” because you know that eventually they’ll end up bringing it all back in again.

We’re falling all over ourselves, pining for The Great Thaw.

We’ve lived through five winters since we moved to Ann Arbor, and each has been different. The first was so ridiculously mild— the Buhr Park skating rink closed three weeks early to avoid becoming a reflecting pool— that I spent the first day of spring wondering what all the fuss was about. “Michigan winters are literally a breeze,” I thought to myself, driving to the hardware store with the sunroof open.

I spent a few hours that day lovingly treating my lawn with grass seed that froze to death in a week. That was the first of many rookie mistakes.

The next year, we set a record for snowfall and during those grim, early-morning shovel-outs, I set a record for unbroken streams of profanity. The winter after that was one of the warmest in the continent’s history, but the Polar Vortex focused its -40 degree wrath exactly on my house. I’m only estimating, of course, because that’s the lowest number on my thermometer, which unionized with my furnace and staged a walkout.

This is the maddening thing about The Great Thaw: You never know when it’ll happen. You watch the skies and reflexively refresh your weather apps as the promise of genuine, long-term warmth teases and entices. You long for the end of the daily morning ritual of telling your kids to leave the house in something warmer than that threadbare cotton hoodie.

Giving in One year, the madness took over, and I sort of snapped. For weeks, I had been driving over a hump of solid ice that had formed in my driveway apron after a late-night plowing. Addled by weeks of life in a gray freezer, I grabbed my garden spade and started chopping with the misguided passion of a gold prospector. After about 15 minutes the composite effect was basically nothing.

This ice would outlive us all.

My neighbor saw what I was up to, took pity on me, and loaned me her sixfoot, 50-pound spar-chisel thing (I don’t drive to the hardware store very often).

With just a few tamps, the big berg broke free, and I was possessed by a maniacal happiness that I’m sure inspired some of my neighbors to hover over the 9-1-1 digits on their phones.

Over the years, I’ve found it’s best to adopt a more Zen-like approach to anticipating spring by not anticipating so much. Each of us is but a mere ice chunk, floating along the gutter of fate into the storm drain of destiny. Whatever happens will happen. And whenever it happens will give me plenty of time to switch gears and start whining about having to cut the grass.

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• April 2017 • www.annarborfamily.com

Photo Credit: By Jess photography + design

EJBSZ PG B %"%

made in Hope Carried

Supporting mothers with locally made baby wraps and slings

By Aimee Grant Eldon

Brea Albulov’s Ann Arbor-based Hope Carried Etsy shop was doing even better than she’d hoped. Her signature product, the ring sling, was an instant success because busy moms loved the slings as incredibly comfortable, great looking, and easy to wear while discreetly breastfeeding. They were such a hit that she diversified her baby wearing business to include wraps, too. But too much demand can be a challenge for a young business and she needed help.

Bringing hope to refugees

By chance, while listening to a radio program, she realized that hiring local mothers was just one way her business could give back to her community. “It struck me one day when I was listening to an NPR story about a woman who was seeking asylum in the U.S. The woman from Afghanistan was staying at Freedom House Detroit.” Albulov contacted Freedom House Detroit and hired her first employee, a recent refugee living in Taylor.

Albulov next made contact with Jewish Family Services (JFS), an Ann Arbor organization that is a leader in serving refugees in the area. “I met with them, and they told me they have an endless supply of women who face significant barriers to work.” After forming a partnership with JFS, Albulov has since hired five additional refugee women who sew slings and wraps for Hope Carried. “As we hired more and more women, it gave me more passion to provide work for them.”

JFS provides a sewing machine, and the women, who are all mothers of young children, can work as much or as little as they like. They come to Albulov’s Ann Arbor home once a week with finished slings and wraps and tote home stacks of fabric in periwinkle, peony, jade, lavender, and other vibrant hues. The flexibility to work from their Ann Arbor area homes, vary their workload, and work for a family-friendly business are the exact supports these talented seamstresses need to experience success. And it’s a win-win for both employer and employee. “I’m amazed. I never expected that I’d be able to make this kind of impact,” says Albulov.

Sena is from Togo, Africa and enjoys her work with Hope Carried.

Brea Albulov, Ann Arbor, is bringing baby wearing to the masses with the help of skilled local seamstresses.

For Albulov, helping create a pathway to success for women in need is also personal because she understands the hardships women can face. “I was a high school dropout and runaway. I now have a business where I’m helping others who have struggled, fleeing from war-torn countries. They’re giving their kids a new opportunity and hope for the future.”

Where to shop

Hope Carried slings and wraps are available at hopecarried.com. Locals can try on a sling or wrap at meetings of the local group, Ann Arbor Babywearers, as items have been donated by Hope Carried. Albulov advises first-time buyers that the ring sling allows easy nursing. hopecarried.com

The Lost and Found Cat An interview with Ypsilanti author Amy Shrodes

Did you get to meet Kunkush’s family? After writing the book, I was able to go to Norway to meet the family.

It was really important to Doug and I to give the family a portion of the proceeds of every book sold. The family chose to give all of the money from the books sales to the family member that assisted them in leaving Iraq, as that family member is now stuck in Turkey. They just kept telling me how thankful they are that their family is safe now.

By Heidi Alene Harris

Amy Shrodes, an Ypsilanti resident, is the co-author of the children’s book, Lost and Found Cat: The True Story of Kunkush’s Incredible Journey. The book tells the true story of one cat’s journey to be reunited with his war-torn family. Shrodes played an integral part in the reunion of a cat, Kunkush, and his refugee family that fled a war-zone home in Iraq.

She shared some of that story with Ann Arbor Family.

What brought you to the island of Lesbos, Greece? I was traveling through Europe to take a break from my career and continued to notice refugees throughout my travels. I was on my way to India when I felt a strong desire to help.

I found an urgent post in a Facebook group called, Third Wave Volunteer Network, asking for volunteers on the Greek island of Lesbos. The next day, I was on my way to Lesbos to help serve food and tea to refugees after they crossed the Aegean Sea.

What was it like, working with the refugees? It was a life-changing experience. Lesbos is one of the closest gateways from the Turkish shores into the safety of the European Union. Their journey to Europe is long, scary, and the trip across the sea can be a terrifying experience. When refugees get off the boat, it is chaotic. I sat next to grown men having panic attacks.

The refugees have no other option because their homes are being taken over by militant groups and their lives are threatened every day. They just want to find a place to live where they are safe.

Tell us the story of Kunkush and his family. Sura, and her five children had fled from their soon-to-be occupied home in Mosul, Iraq. The family carried Kunkush, the family cat, in a basket throughout the entire journey to Lesbos.

In the chaotic landing on the shores of Lesbos, Kunkush escaped and got left behind after the family had to continue without him. I found Kunkush at a local café and worked with a huge network of volunteers, two women, Michelle and Ashley, and the co-author of the book, Doug Kuntz, to launch a campaign to find Kunkush’s family. After three months the family was finally found living in Norway.

Amy with Kunkush’s family in Norway. Photo Credit_ Hakam Hasan

What inspired you to write the book, Lost and Found Cat? Doug’s fiancé, Sandra, met an editor from the Children’s Department at Penguin Random House. The editor was asking for some heartfelt stories of experiences with the refugees and Sandra told them the story of Kunkush. Creating the book was a way for us to help explain the life of a refugee to children. The overarching theme I want others to take away from the book is that when we come together, it is amazing the doors that will open.

Miracles do happen when we all put our differences aside and put kindness first.

What brought you to live in Ypsilanti? My mom was living in Ypsilanti and I fell in love with the culture here. I appreciate the diversity and find it to be a very open and accepting community. I am so grateful to be part of this community where People truly care about their neighbors.

The children’s book, Lost and Found Cat: The True Story of Kunkush’s Incredible Journey

Amy and Kunkush on Lesbos in Greece.

Photo Credit_ Doug Kuntz

What is your advice for how we can make a difference to help the refugee cause? Get involved on a local level! Here in Washtenaw County there is Washtenaw Refugee Welcome working to support our local refugees and WICER working to support our local immigrants.

Amalshop.org or revifamily.org are also great because you can buy handmade gifts from refugees with all proceeds going directly to them.

Purchase Lost and Found Cat, through lostandfoundcat.org or at local booksellers. Also, check out Amy’s podcast, Unified Threads, where Amy talks about her experiences working with refugees in Greece.

Amy in the Solidarity Kitchen helping refugees on the island of Lesbos, Greece

www.annarborfamily.com • April 2017 •

19

Mediterranean Delights

Palm Palace

2370 Carpenter Road Ann Arbor, MI 48108 Phone: (734) 606-0706 Hours: Sun-Thur 10am-10pm;Fri-Sat 10am-11pm palmpalace.com At the corner of Carpenter and Washtenaw, Palm Palace transports you to another world.

“They decorated perfectly!” proclaimed my ten-year-old daughter upon entering Palm Palace. As we strolled through the Mediterranean restaurant to our table, I agreed. There are three dining rooms, each with tile floors, cascading drapes, warm colors, lighting fixtures and accent pieces exuding Mediterranean influence.

Starting out

My husband and I started with hot mint tea flavored with cardamom, cinnamon, black tea, mint and lemon zest. My daughter chose a smoothie with bananas, strawberries, honey and mango. Our drinks were flavorful and yummy.

A large basket of hot pita bread, fired in a stone oven, was served with garlic sauce. The warm pockets were smoky and delicious, the sauce creamy and strong. We agreed that our son, 13, would have lived on the bread. Alas, he was attending another event that night and did not accompany us.

To complement the bread, we added the starter combo appetizer: small bowls of hummus (pureed chickpeas with tahini, lemon juice and garlic), baba ghanoush (fire roasted eggplant with tahini, lemon juice and garlic) and tabouli (parsley, tomatoes, onion, cracked wheat, olive oil, and spices). We each decided on a favorite.

“I feel full and I haven’t had my dinner yet,” said my daughter.

Immersive tastes and atmosphere at Palm Palace

By Katy M. Clark

Bounty of flavors

The menu at Palm Palace is rife with Mediterranean delicacies. Soups like Moroccan harira, salads such as fattoush, and sandwiches like falafel, accompany numerous chicken, lamb and seafood entrees, from ghallaba to shawarma.

Entrees are served with soup or salad and a choice or rice, vegetables or potato wedges.

I chose the lamb ghallaba, lamb tips sautéed with vegetables, herbs and spices, and a cup of crushed lentil soup ($17.99). My husband selected shish tawook, grilled chicken breast cubes marinated in lemon and oregano, with rice and a house salad ($16.99).

The kids’ menu offers Mac and cheese, chicken tenders, chicken kabob or chicken or lamb shawarma with rice or fries. My daughter picked the chicken kabob with rice ($7.99).

My lentil soup was tasty with blended carrots, onion and lentils. It wasn’t long before our main dishes were served. My lamb ghallaba was zesty, with crisptender green peppers and carrots among loads of lamb. I liked the crunch from the toasted almonds in the rice. I took half of the portion home for lunch the next day.

“Delish, isn’t it?” my husband enthused about his shish tawook, which had an appetizing char grilled flavor.

He cheerfully finished his plate. My daughter’s chicken kabob and rice were equally flavorful, and just as cheerfully consumed.

We finished with the Mediterranean delight, baklava ($3.99). Okay, so I finished with baklava as my husband

and daughter were stuffed.

Light and flaky with bits of pistachio and honey, it was drier than what my childhood friend’s mother used to make, which was dripping in honey, but it still satisfied my sweet tooth.

From lentil soup to baklava, surrounded by the sights and sounds of Mediterranean culture, we were immersed in a tasty experience at Palm Palace.

The Short Course Kid-friendly: Yes

To avoid wait: Go before 7pm for dinner Noise level: High if full

Bathroom amenities: Changing tables in men’s and women’s High chairs? Yes

Kids’ menu? Yes

Anything healthy for kids? Try the chicken kabob with rice.

Food allergy concerns? Please inform the server of your concern. They can identify ingredients and work with the kitchen to accommodate your needs.

Got milk? No, but they offer mint lemonade, fresh-squeezed juices, smoothies and pop.

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Library Space Camp

All calendar events are subject to change, cancellation and limited size. Calling ahead for confirmation is recommended.

1 SATURDAY Free Dental Care Children (ages 5-14) are invited to receive free dental services if they are among the first 100 patients registered.

Services include cleanings, x-rays, sealants, fillings and extractions. Register between 7:30-8:30am. 8am. University of Michigan School of Dentistry, 1011 N. University Ave. 734-763-6933. dent.umich.edu Free Bumblebee Luminaries for FoolMoon & FestiFools Get involved with the FoolMoon procession and the Festifools parade by joining a swarm of bees. The folks at the art center will be there to guide the construction of bee luminaries. All materials are provided except lights, which will be available for purchase. 10am. Ann Arbor Art Center, 117 W. Liberty St. 734-994-8004. annarborartcenter.org Free Miss Marlena’s All-Star Story Hour Ages 6 and up are welcome to attend this show full of storytelling, songs, laughs, and visits from a cast of funny and friendly characters who drop by Miss Marlena’s Thingamabob Emporium and Bookstore. 10am. $5. Eluminous Studios, 1205 Industrial Dr., Saline.

734-944-0286. eluminousstudios.com Spring Break Activities: Spectrum Sensation The Ann Arbor Hands-on Museum hosts programing during spring break for parents and kids to do together. Create, learn, and experiment with the color spectrum. Discover how people perceive different shades and how the spectrum is used by scientists. Runs through April 9. 10am. $5-$10. Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum, 220 E. Ann St. 734-482-4110. aahom.org 45th Annual Dance for Mother Earth Powwow The powwow is hosted by the University of Michigan Native American Student Association and features a Native dance contest with categories like Women’s Jingle Dress, Fancy Shawl, Traditional, Grass Dance and more. There will also be a Native American market with craftspeople showcasing their work. Also on April 2. 10:30am. $5-15.

Skyline High School, 2552 N. Maple Rd. powwow.umich.edu

2 SUNDAY FestiFools Workshop Get creative and make your instruments for the upcoming FestiFools festival with Drummunity. The event welcomes all ages. 1pm. Ann Arbor District Library-Downtown, 343 S. Fifth Ave. 734-327-4200. aadl.org Free Story Time with Mother Goose: Kerry Tales Hollander’s Book & Paper Arts is hosting Kerry Tales: “Splash in Puddles with Mother Goose.” All ages are welcome.

2pm. Kerrytown Market & Shops, 407 N. 5th Ave. kerrytown.com/events-1 Free

Kids will have a blast! at this fun event at the Downtown location of the Ann Arbor District Library. There will be space-related crafts, a science experiment, and a straw rocket launch. The library will also have a space-themed book and tool display for the kids. The event is recommended for kids in grades K-5.

3 MONDAY School’s Out! Let’s Tumble & Shout Keep the kids occupied on their day off with activities, games and gymnastics.

8:30am. $35/half day, $60/full day.

Gym America, 5555 Hines Dr. 734-971-1667. gymamericagymnastics.com Squirrel Stole My Underpants A play about a young girl hanging up the laundry, the mischievous squirrel that steals her clothes and the chase that reveals an entire world in the laundry basket. Recommended for ages 3 and up. The show combines physical theater and puppetry. 10:30am. $10. Pointless Brewery & Theatre, 3014 Packard.

989-455-4484. pointlessbrew.com

4 TUESDAY

Thursday, April 6. 1-3pm. Ann Arbor Downtown District Library, 343 S. Fifth Ave. 734-327-8301. aadl.org Free

American Girl Party Come to the Michigan Branch of the Ypsilanti District Library on Saturday, April 8 to make a bracelet for yourself and your American Girl doll. The party will also include American Girl bingo for prizes and a yummy snack.

Saturday, April 8. 3:30-5pm. YDL-Michigan, Program Room, 229 W. Michigan Ave., Ypsilanti. 734-482-4100x1390. ypsilibrary.org. Free

Family Mew-vie Nights Enjoy a family-friendly movie with popcorn and some cat cuddling. Families are welcome to bring sleeping bags, blankets and snacks and drinks. Registration required. Also on Apr 14. 7pm. $10.

Tiny Lions Lounge, 5245 Jackson Rd. 734-662-5585. tinylions.org

Plant It Get ready for spring with a plant in a pretty flowerpot. Grades 1-5 are invited to pick out a flower pot and decorate it to their liking. Plant a seed into the newly decorated flowerpot and take it home to usher in spring. 1pm. Ann Arbor District FoolMoon Library-Westgate, 2503 Jackson Ave. This moonlight event is a celebration of 734-327-4200. aadl.org Free PICKS community and creativity. The procession is full of hand-made illuminated Viewing Night sculptures, installations, laser shows, live If it’s warmer than 40ºF, drier than 80%, dance performances and many more and clear enough to see stars, the dome luminous things. To be in the procession, at the Detroit Observatory in Ann Arbor meet at Ann Arbor Farmers Market, the will be open to the public. Don’t miss a UMMA, or Slauson Middle School. 8pm. rare opportunity to look through a 19th Ashley and Washington St. century telescope. Participants must be 734-707-1099. able to climb stairs to reach the wonderfoolproductions.org Free telescope.9pm. Detroit Observatory, 1398 E. Ann St. facebook.com/DetroitObservatory Free SATURDAY

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6 THURSDAY Kid’s Cake Decorating Class Learn how to ice a single layer 6” cake and basic cake decorating techniques.

All supplies are provided and everyone leaves the class with a cake. 2:30pm. $25. The Baker’s Nook, 901 W. Michigan Ave, Saline.

734-429-1320. thebakersnook.com You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown Charlie Brown, Snoopy and the gang come alive on the stage in this musical show. Runs through Apr 9. 8pm. $7- $12. Kreft Center Black Box Theater, 4090 Geddes Rd. 734-995-7537.

7 FRIDAY Drop-In Crafts and Games Elementary age kids are invited to enjoy some unstructured play time. There will be a variety of craft materials and board games available for kids to play with.

They will also be serving snacks. 1pm.

Dexter District Library, 3255 Alpine St. 734-426-4477. dexter.lib.mi.us Free Family Dance Party Join Kidopolis for a family friendly dance party. 6pm. $8. Kidopolis, 509 State Cir. 734-769-0263. kidopolis.net

American Girl: Easter Cupcake Party Kids (ages 8-13) are invited to bring their dolls to make and decorate cupcakes for Easter. Students will get to take home a cupcake set. Registration is requested.

10am. $30. Williams-Sonoma, 808 Briarwood Cir. 734-665-1500. williams-sonoma.com Men’s & Women’s Basketball KidSport Clinic Kids grade K-8 are invited to participate in sport clinics with the University of Michigan varsity student-athletes. All proceeds go to the Jeff Reese KidSport Scholarship Fund, which provides scholarships for disadvantaged kids to attend the University of Michigan’s KidSport Summer Camp. The student-athletes will talk about being healthy and doing well in school. 10am. $20.

Player Development Center, 1250 Kipke Dr. 734-647-2708. kines.umich.edu/kidsport-clinics Sensory Storytime This program is geared to children (ages 3-8) who have a hard time in large groups, are on the autism spectrum, have other developmental delays and/or sensitivity to sensory overload. This interactive story time will have visuals, rhythmic stories and sensory activities. 11am.

Chelsea District Library, 221 S. Main St. 734-475-8732. chelseadistrictlibrary.org Free

9 SUNDAY Peter and the Wolf Platypus Theatre brings Peter and the Wolf to life with choreography, colorful sets and theatrical masks. Pre-concert activities begin with Flipside and Ann Arbor Hands-on Museum. at 2:30pm, the show begins at 4pm. 2:30pm. $14.

Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty St., 734-668-8397. michtheater.org FestiFools FestiFools is a colorful and bizarre parade with human-powered papiermâché puppets and all kinds of silly things. The public art spectacular features creations by local artists, organizations and U of M students. 3:30pm.

Main St. 734-707-1099. wonderfoolproductions.org Free

10 MONDAY Stroller Strides® Community Class Try out a total fitness program for mom and babies featuring cardio, strength and body training exercises. 9am.

Briarwood Mall, 100 Briarwood Cir. 734-725-4075. annarborfit4mom.com Free

12 WEDNESDAY Youth and Teen 3D Printing Workshop Watch a demonstration of the 3D printer and learn how to design 3D objects using TinkerCAD. Participants can also sign up for time slots to print their designs. Registration is required. 4pm.

Chelsea District Library, 221 S. Main St. 734-475-8732. chelseadistrictlibrary.org Free

13 THURSDAY Nature Tales: Extravagant Eggs Get involved with nature-based activities that will instill curiosity and wonder in your kids. Learn about birds and the varieties of eggs that they lay. Dress for the weather. 10am. $4. Leslie Science and Nature Center, 1831 Traver Rd. 734-997-1553. lesliesnc.org.

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Breeding Bird Survey Kickoff & Training Event Pick your favorite park, pick some survey materials, and learn about the 2016 breeding bird survey results. It is all the fun of bird watching while helping the parks keep track of the birds. Registration is requested.

7pm. Natural Area Preservation Office, 3875 E. Huron River Dr. 734-794-6627. a2gov.org

14 FRIDAY Movie & Popcorn for Kids Enjoy a movie and popcorn in the comfort of the library. Showing Pete’s Dragon.

Grace doesn’t believe her father’s magical stories until she meets an orphan who says he lives in the woods with a friendly dragon. 11am. Dexter District Library, 3255 Alpine St. 734-426-4477. dexter.lib. mi.us Free

15 SATURDAY Little Peeps: Pirate Adventure Kids (Pre K-grade 5) are invited for a swashbuckling pirate adventure. There will be a short interactive performance, drama activities, and a craft. Adults are free.

10:30am. $7. Pointless Brewery & Theatre, 3014 Packard. 989-455-4484. pointlessbrew.com Disney’s The Little Mermaid U of M’s School of Musical Theatre will present all of the classic music and magic from the beloved movie. All ages. 2pm. $12-$32. The Power Center for the Performing Arts, 121 Fletcher St. 734-764-2538. tickets.music.umich.edu The Great Diaper Experiment A fun experiment for kids grades K-5 to learn how to set up an experiment. Use science to discover which diaper brand is best. 2pm. Ann Arbor District LibraryMalletts, 3090 E. Eisenhower Pkwy.

734-327-4200. aadl.org Free

20 THURSDAY Little Paws Story Time Enjoy a storytime with some friendly and furry visitors for kids aged 2-5. This program also includes toy/treat making for adoptable animals and a shelter walk.

Pre-registration is recommended. 10:30am. $5. Humane Society of Huron Valley, 3100 Cherry Hill Rd. 734-662-5585. tinylions.org

21 FRIDAY Read to Library Dogs Children are welcome to read aloud to the library’s friendly therapy dogs. These furry friends are excellent listeners and are nonjudgemental. Sign up for a 10-minute slot.

3:30pm. Chelsea District Library, 221 S. Main St. 734-475-8732. chelseadistrictlibrary.org Free Pets and Pajamas Movie Night Join some furry friends for a cozy evening.

Visitors (age 5-11) are invited to come in pajamas and settle in with an animalthemed movie, vegetarian dinner, popcorn and time with the adoptable animals. 5pm. $35. Humane Society of Huron Valley, 3100 Cherry Hill Rd. 734-662-5585. tinylions.org

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22 SATURDAY Chocolate Extravaganza Nancy Biehn of Sweet Gem Confections is stopping by to teach students all about chocolate. Learn about cacao and how it is transformed into chocolate. Make and decorate your own delicious chocolate truffles, and learn how to temper chocolate.

Ages 10+ welcome. 10am. $60.

Sprouting Chefs, 1500 Scio Church Rd. 734-474-1006. sproutingchefs.org Family Art Studio: Picturing People This event for families with kids ages 6+ to explore the exhibit “Victors for Art: Michigan Alumni Collectors, Part 1: Figuration.” The exhibit features Richard Diebenkorn, Henri Matisse and Georgia O’Keeffe. An artist and docent will lead a hands-on workshop afterwards. Registration is required. 11am. UMMA, 525 S. State St. 734-764-0395. umma.umich.edu Free Professor Ray’s Everyday Science: Air Apparent What is air pressure and what does it do?

Explore the principles of air pressure by crushing a can and levitating objects.1pm and 3pm. $5-$12. Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum, 220 E. Ann St. 734-995-5439. aahom.org Turtle Steward Kickoff & Training At least six species of turtles live and nest in the city. Help protect nest sites, monitor populations and look for turtles in habitats along the river and creeks. Local experts will discuss species identification, nest monitoring and how to report turtle observations. Registration is requested.

4pm. Natural Area Preservation Office, 3875 E. Huron River Dr. 734-794-6627. a2gov.org

23 SUNDAY Earth Day Festival This family-friendly event features displays from over 30 local environmental, non-profit and governmental organizations.

There will be live animal demonstrations, sustainable-living presentations, hands-on activities, live entertainment, crafts and much more. 12pm. Leslie Science and Nature Center, 1831 Traver Rd. 734-997-1553. lesliesnc.org Free

25 TUESDAY Tween Book Club: The Crossover by Kwame Alexander This book club includes a discussion about the book and its characters, snacks and an activity related to the story. This month’s book follows twins with a shared love of basketball. Registration is required.

3:30pm. Chelsea District Library, 221 S. Main St. 734-475-8732. chelseadistrictlibrary.org Free

26 WEDNESDAY Dance Along, Sing Along!

Local music teacher Beth Battey is bringing all sorts of musical fun. There will be songs, dance and musical games for children and parents to do together. The event is geared towards kids ages 2-5. 10:30am.

Chelsea District Library, 221 S Main St. 734-475-8732. chelseadistrictlibrary.org Free

marketplace

27 THURSDAY Nature Tales: Earth Helpers Get involved with outdoor, nature-based activities that instill curiosity and wonder in your kids. Learn about the environment and how to be an earth helper. Dress for the weather. 10am. $4. Leslie Science and Nature Center, 1831 Traver Rd. 734-997-1553. lesliesnc.org.

Nature Walk at Mary Beth Doyle Park All ages are invited to don their light hiking gear and get outside for a nice walk.

Nature walkers are asked to meet at the parking lot on Packard east of Cobblestone Farm. 7:30pm. Mary Beth Doyle Park, S. Birch Hollow Dr. 734-327-4200. aadl.org Free

28 FRIDAY Parents’ Night Out Three certified care givers and some friendly librarians have fun programing for kids (ages 6-11) and parents get the night off.

Kids will play games, do crafts, watch videos and enjoy a pizza dinner. Registration is required, each child should be registered individually. 6pm. Chelsea District Library, 221 S. Main St. 734-475-8732. chelseadistrictlibrary.org Free Get Hype for An Evening With Skyline Theatre Students from Skyline High school are presenting a show that includes selections from Sweeney Todd, Peter Pan, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee and Hamilton. Also on Apr 29. 7:30pm. $10-$15. Skyline High School, 2552 N. Maple Rd. 734-994-6515. skylinehstheatre.org

29 SATURDAY ScienceFest: Museum Favorites It is the Hands-on Museum’s greatest hits: a weekend of the museum’s most-loved activities and best exhibits. 10am. $5-$12.

Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum, 220 E. Ann St. 734-995-5439. aahom.org Family Date Night Spend some quality time with the family! A fun night of crafts, pizza, snacks, a presentation by the County naturalists and a movie screening of A Bug’s Life.

Registration is required. 6:30pm. $5/person. Meri Lou Murray Recreation Center, 2960 Washtenaw Ave. parksonline.ewashtenaw.org

30 SUNDAY El Dia de Los Ninos y Libros Cultural Celebration Come celebrate what is commonly referred to as Día, a celebration of children and families. There will be music, dancing, traditional treats and more. 1:30pm. Ypsilanti District Library-Whittaker, 5577 Whittaker Rd. 734-482-4110 x1390. ypsilibrary.org Free

ADVERTISING IN MARKETPLACE Wednesdays

Wee-Bots and Up This drop-in writing workshop is specifically for younger writers, ages 6-10.

Experiment with writing prompts, learn techniques and discuss creative writing with other students. 6pm. 826Michigan, 115 E. Liberty St. 734-761-3463.

826michigan.org Free

Thurdays

Children’s Storytime Enjoy storytime in Literati’s comfy space.

Kids of any age are welcome. 11am.

Literati Bookstore, 124 E. Washington St. 734-585-5567. literatibookstore.com Free

Thursdays

Lego Night Join other Lego enthusiasts for open play every Thursday. Kids will love it and adults can sneak in on the action as well.

5pm. Ypsilanti District Library-Superior, 8795 MacArthur Blvd. 734-482-4110. ypsilibrary.org Free

Saturdays

Dinosaur Tour All dino fans are welcome to this 30-minute docent-led tour of the dinosaur exhibits at the U of M Museum of Natural History. Sign up on the day of the tour.

2pm. Ruthven Museums Building, 1109 Geddes Ave. 734-764-0480. ummnh.org Free

Select Thursdays

Read to Otis the Library Dog Otis, a certified Therapaws dog, is a great listener. Kids grades 1-3 are encouraged to come read aloud to Otis to practice their skills without judgement.

He will be in the library on April 13 and April 27 and you can sign your child up for a 10-minute slot to read to him. Phone registration requested. 6pm.

Ypsilanti District Library-Michigan, 229 W. Michigan Ave. 734-482-4110 x1390. ypsilibrary.org Free

Sunday-Friday

Baby Playgroups Each playgroup includes 15 minutes of stories, rhymes and songs. Parents or guardians must remain with their children. Branch locations and times vary.

Call or check online for more information. Ann Arbor District Library Branches.

734-327-4200. aadl.org Free

Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays

Drop-In Spring Storytime Swing by the library for a fun spring session of stories. There are interactive books, crafts, finger plays and many other activities to encourage a love of reading. The sessions are 30 minutes long. 11am. Dexter District Library, 3255 Alpine St. 734-426-4477. dexter.lib.mi.us

Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays

More events updated daily at annarborfamily.com

Free Morning Movies In April, Quality 16 is hosting free morning movies. They will be showing Trolls, Ice Age: Collision Course, and Sing.

10am. Quality 16, 3686 Jackson Rd. goodrichqualitytheaters.com. Free

Free Classifieds: Individuals may receive one

free 20-word ad per month (products offered in ads must sell for under $100). Each additional word 40 cents, payment must accompany ad. Free ads run one month and are reserved for private-parties use, noncommercial concerns and free services.

Ads MUST be typed or neatly printed and MAILED, E-MAILED, or DROPPED OFF to Ann Arbor Family Press. Classifieds by the15th of the month prior to publication.

Line Classifieds: Only $20 per month for 20

words or less. Each additional word is 40 cents each and any artwork will be $5 extra.

Display Classifieds: Display classifieds with a box may be purchased for $25 per column inch. Photos are accepted with ads for an additional $5 per photo.

services Massage: Walk-in Appointments Available. Come in stressed leave refreshed.

Free Parking. Make some time for yourself!

RelaxStation. 734-623-1951

FOR SALE Safe Step Walk-In Tub Alert for Seniors. Bathroom falls can be fatal.

Approved by Arthritis Foundation. Therapeutic Jets. Less Than 4 Inch Step-In. Wide Door.

Anti-Slip Floors. American Made. Installation Included. Call 1-800-906-3115 for $750 Off

HELP WANTED Massage Therapist: Currently hiring therapists to work at RelaxStation in downtown Ann Arbor to accommodate our already established clientele. Free parking, flexible hours, great team! 734-623-1951 Give Hope. Become a Foster Parent. Attend a free training today to learn more! For more information: www.judsoncenter.org or 313-255-8272.

EDUCATION ARE YOUR CHILDREN INTERESTED IN ASTRONOMY? Do they like observing the moon, planets and stars?

GO TO www.YoungAstronomer.org

ANNOUNCEMENTS A PLACE FOR MOM. The nation’s largest senior living referral service.

Contact our trusted, local experts today! Our service is FREE/no obligation. CALL 1-800880-1686

Deadlines: Ad copy must be received by the 15th of the month prior to publication.

Payment: Payment must be received before an ad can

be placed. We accept checks, cash, money orders and credit cards (Visa/Mastercard).

Mail or drop off:

Ann Arbor Family Press Classifieds, 3003 Washtenaw Blvd., Ann Arbor.

Phone: 734-668-4044 E-Mail: classifieds@adamsstreetpublishing.com Refunds: Sorry, NO REFUNDS given.

Misprints: Credit toward future ads.

Stop OVERPAYING for your prescriptions!

SAVE! Call our licensed Canadian and International pharmacy, compare prices and get $25.00 OFF your first prescription! CALL 1-800-254-4073 Promo Code CDC201625

METAL ROOFING- A real roof for your house, garage, barn. Roof, ceiling, siding. Closeout deals. Low prices. Fast delivery. slateroadsupply.com 717 445-5222

Lung Cancer? And 60

Years Old? If So, You and Your Family May Be Entitled To A Significant Cash Award. Call 800-897-7205 To Learn More. No Risk. No Money Out of Pocket.

Got Knee Pain? Back Pain? Shoulder Pain?

Get a pain-relieving brace -little or NO cost to you. Medicare Patients Call Health Hotline Now! 1- 800-419-3684

AUTOS WANTED CARS/TRUCKS WANTED!!! All Makes/Models 2002-2016! Any Condition. Running or Not. Competitive Offer! Free Towing! We’re Nationwide! Call Now: 1-888-3681016

LOTS & ACREAGE LAKEFRONT LAND LIQUIDATION! 6 acres – $99,900 Cortland Co in the Finger Lakes!

Unspoiled lake, wooded privacy, great fishing! Ideal country homesite! Call 866-4958733 NewYorkLandandLakes.com LENDER ORDERED SALE! 39 acres – $89,900 NO REASONABLE OFFER REFUSED! Delaware County, Catskill Mtn setting! Views, woods, meadow! EZ terms avail! Call 888-431-7214 today!

NewYorkLandandLakes.com

pets

Homeward Bound Rescue League SPOTS: 5 yrs, male, Lab/Bull Terrier Mix

I love to go for walks and to play fetch! My foster mom says that I need an active family because I have a lot of energy. I am smart, too. I know a lot of commands. I really need to be the only pet, though. I cannot be around cats or small animals because I will chase them. Please apply to adopt me. I love people and want to find my forever home soon!

TYSON: 2 yrs old, male, DSH - Black & White

My name is Tyson! I love people and will sleep in the bed with you. I am shy and quiet, but I like to be held and petted. I really like other cats and I am fine with dogs, too. Some older cats like to take care of me because I am so sweet! I have a wonderful foster home, but I really want to find my purr-fect forever home. I cannot wait to meet you!

SPECTRUM TRIPLE PLAY TV, Internet & Voice for $29.99 ea. 60 MB per second speed. No contract or commitment. We buy your existing contract up to $500! 1-800-806-5909 SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY BENEFITS. Unable to work? Denied benefits? We Can Help!

WIN or Pay Nothing! Contact Bill Gordon & Associates at 1-800-208-6915 to start your application today!

For Sale Building Materials

Homeward Bound Rescue League

P.O. Box 87591 Canton, MI 48187 homewardboundmi@yahoo.com

To apply for one of our adoptable pets, please fill out an application on our Web site: www.hbrlmi.org If you cannot adopt, please consider making a donation online to help out our furry friends!

call catherine at 734.668.4044 to sell your stuff!

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