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Your local mini vacation
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REASONS TO LOVE AUGUST INSIDE
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• August 2016 • www.annarborfamily.com
Volume 21 • Issue 8 August 2016
[special features]
Dexter Daze Building Creative Kids
On the cover
12
2016
e d i u g
18
departments
community snapshots
5
what’s briefly happening
6
new kids
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exceptional families
Online
August
Once Upon A Child is growing up Exploring the celebrated local children’s store By Laura Eliason
Back to School with Mindfulness How to make this year filled with positivity, joy, and peace By Kathy Walsh
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Ashlyn, 5 and Cole, 3, Ann Arbor
Amanda Eskridge Photography
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tween the lines 9 healthy kids 10 recipe of the month 17 calendar 22 — compiled by Zach Marburger
marketplace 23
commentary moMENts 10
The halfway point
— by Patrick Hempfing
parent profile 11
Whitmore Lake Yarn Company
Blogs by local moms, for local moms, are at your fingertips. Relatable and hilarious reads online.
Mending hearts one stitch at a time — by Tami Sackett
from stem to steam 20 Ann Arbor Public Schools are balancing out their curriculum — by Donna Iadipaolo
food fight 21
Flavor with Flare
Sabor Latino’s inspired Latin American cuisine — by Katy M. Clark
www.annarborfamily.com • August 2016 •
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Adams Street Publishing Co.
An inside look at what we’re loving for parents this month
WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE SUBJECT IN SCHOOL? Publisher/Editor in Chief
Collette Jacobs (cjacobs@toledoparent.com) art
Co-publisher/Chief Financial Officer Mark I. Jacobs (mjacobs@toledoparent.com) english grammar
Vintage Flyer Backpack
Editorial
August 24September 22 By Sue Lovett
Specifically designed with preschoolers in mind, this vintage backpack is machinewashable with enough room for anything little ones may need in the classroom. A design that will have the other kids crowding around. $42. myurbantoddler.com
KIDS HOROSCOPE Zombie Metallic Pen
The zombie phenomenon isn’t slowing down anytime soon, so turn all that T.V. time into productivity with this Zombie Diary. Comes with metallic pen and a lock and key so kids can keep their survival guide a secret. $11.99 peaceablekingdom.com
Happy Grand Piano
Make music lessons fun with this mini-grand piano, perfect for tiny hands. Featuring 30 keys and made from wood, it’s a great way to introduce children to the piano. Comes in black or pink. $149.95. thelittleseedling.com
Assignment Editors: Zach Marburger (annarboreditor@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Russian History Laura Eliason (laura@adamsstreetpublishing.com) social studies Calendar Editor: Marisa Rubin (mrubin@adamsstreetpublishing.com) nap time Contributing Writers: Katy M. Clark, Jennifer Brough, Patrick Hempfing, Lauren Lucas, Jordan Scavone, Heather Artushin, Jamie Lober, Sue Lovett, Tami Sackett, Donna Iadipaolo, Malia Jacobsen, Laura Eliason, Jennifer Brough
Once you get used to having a Virgo you will be thrilled. It is a bit difficult because they are such perfectionists. From birth they can’t stand to have their blankets or pj’s wrinkled. Everything needs to be in perfect order. As soon as they are able to crawl or walk, they need a clear path. They want their toy box and the shelves in their room to be orderly. One of their favorite ways to play is if you give them a squirt bottle of water and a roll of paper towels so they can clean everything they see. Naturally when they are old enough they want to play doctor or nurse. They enjoy planting and caring for a garden as they are interested in nutrition at a young age.
Digital Media
They do very well in school and even enjoy homework. They get along well with other children but tend to be bossy if the others aren’t as perfect as they are. They are “people pleasers” and as soon as they learn that everyone is not perfect, they are delightful and fit in with family and friends.
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Saul Jacobs (saul@adamsstreetpublishing.com) French
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Production Manager Imani Lateef (imani@adamsstreetpublishing.com) English Senior Designer: Leah Foley (leah@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Marketing/DECA Graphic Designer: Ashley Crapsey (acrapsey@adamsstreetpublishing.com) ANY ART RELATED CLASS
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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.
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• August 2016 • www.annarborfamily.com
COMMUNITY SNAPS SNAP IT+ SEND IT
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... It may end up on the cover!
August Giveaway The countdown for the August Giveaway begins now! This month enter for a chance to win Stitch Jam, the Nintendo DSTM game featuring Lilo and Stitch from Disney.
Aya, 4, Ann Arbor
Yukttha, 4, and her parents, Ann Arbor
ees
Ann Arbor Jayc
March On
The Ann Arbor Jaycees, young adults who make a difference through service projects, seminars, socials and other recreational activities. They sponsor the annual 4th of July Parade in Ann Arbor and put on a great show. A parade-goer favorite is always the Redford Jaycees Lawn Mower Drill Corp who demo lawn mowing maneuvers while marching!
WIN ME! Just send us a photo of your family outing for a chance to be featured in our “Community Snapshots” section, and a chance to win our giveaway! Be sure to include your child’s name, age and city.
Redford Jaycees Lawn Mower Drill Corp
To enter, send your snapshot to laura@adamsstreetpublishing.com or visit annarborfamily.com and click to enter our giveaway, through August 31! www.annarborfamily.com • August 2016 •
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Compiled by Zach Marburger
Boat Building Blast off
Little astronauts and NASA scientists will turn the Ann Arbor Downtown District Library into a virtual space station during Rocket Academy! Participants will get a (hopefully not crash) course in rocket design before engineering their own ships made from straws, paper and clay. After construction, the rockets will embark on a perilous journey through the library’s solar system obstacle course. Become a deep-space explorer right here in Washtenaw County! Perfect for adults and kids age seven and up.
The folks at Robin Hills Farm are back with another family activity. With summer, attention turns to the lower pond of their expansive property for the first annual Dragon Boat Festival 2016. The event kicks off early in the morning with a boat exhibition followed by a day of racing on the pond. The activities end with an awards ceremony, with food, live music and beer concessions throughout the day. Interested in racing? Visit Robin Hills’ website to find out how to enter, to order a racing kit and even to enroll in a full boat-building course. $5/general admission. $10/RC boat registration, $30/Dragon Boat registration. $175/Boat-Building Kit, $375/Boat-building course. Free/Children 12 and under. Robin Hills Farm, 20390 M-52, Chelsea. 734-834-8496. robinhillsfarm.com
Saturday, August 20 at 2pm. Ann Arbor District Library Downtown, 343 S. Fifth Ave. 734-327-4200. aadl.org Free
Meet their heroes
Meet real life heroes, eat some free hot dogs and popcorn, and sit in emergency vehicles! The third-annual free family open house with the Ann Arbor Fire and Police Departments will be another great experience for the whole family. The community will be able to explore fire and police vehicles, meet the Police K-9 unit (always a hit), watch demos and much more.
One-Man Circus
The balmy weather is winding down, but there’s one more chance to experience the fun of Ann Arbor Summer Festival at L’homme Cirque. David Dimitri is a one man circus, a veteran of Cirque du Soleil and an incredibly talented high wire dancer. He’s branched out on his own and comes to Burns Park with a mix of humor, poetry, high-wire stunts and accordion solos. Kids and adults alike will be fascinated by this daredevil’s blend of comedy and stunts. End this year’s Summer Festival with a bang, as Dimitri turns himself into a human cannonball! Wednesday, August 24 — Sunday, August 28. 6:30pm. $20/kids, $30/adults. Burns Park, Wells St. a2sf.org
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• August 2016 • www.annarborfamily.com
Saturday, August 6. 11am-2pm. Ann Arbor Justice Center, 301 E. Huron St. 734-794-6110, a2gov.org Free
Move it moms
From the Center for the Childbearing Year comes a new class designed for future moms that don’t want to be wallflowers during their nine months of pregnancy. In the class, Dancing for Birth, expecting mothers will learn movements inspired by dances from around the globe, including Belly Dance, African Dance and Latin Dance. For fun and fitness, the classes offer more tangible benefits too: dancing while pregnant supports fetal positioning and loosens the hips, which facilitates the birthing process. Moms still on the fence can take a free sample class. To register email patty@center4cby.com. A new session starts August 14 and runs through September 25. For more information visit center4cby.com.
h t n o Mn e h t f so o Elia t a f r u Cra By La Let’s Get Groovy Tie-dying shirts is a fun, creative outdoor activity for everyone Get your groove on with the whole family this summer! The instructions below are for dyeing white, cotton t-shirts but you can use this same method to dye any cotton cloth such as aprons, tablecloths, baby onesies, bed sheets, and more.
Supplies: such as RIT Fabric Dye, n t-shirt White cotto ds Rubber ban ves Rubber glo r bucket Large pot o led Long-hand with ir st to l utensi Salt /plastic Newspaper sheeting to space cover work
ber to read the Note: Remem u the dye that yo instructions on ms ite l na tio di y ad purchase for an . you may need
Prep
▪ Put on an apron or smock over old clothes and cover any wood surfaces you are working on with plastic sheeting.
Mix Dye and Tie Off Shirt
▪ Mix fabric dye according to package
instructions in 3-gallon enamel or stainless steel containers (plastic will get stained). Add a cup of salt to the dye mixture to enhance the color.
Creating Brighter Futures in a new location
Creating Bright Futures has moved to their new location on the south side of Ann Arbor: 4201 Varsity Drive, Suites B&C, Ann Arbor. Creating Bright Futures offers customized Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) autism treatment for children between the ages of 2-18. Their unique family-based autism treatment center uses individualized behavioral and play-based autism therapy to improve skills. They aim to help alleviate the confusion and frustration that can follow an autism diagnosis. At their new location they will offer expanded treatment for older kids, as well as a more flexible schedule. For more information visit creatingbrighterfutures.com.
A Learner Driven Community Acton Academy is opening their newest school in Ann Arbor for the 2016-2017 school year. The school is accepting applications for 18 students in K-4th grade for the first year. One grade level will be added each year so the oldest students can remain leading in the school. Acton Academy resembles an updated version of the one-room schoolhouse, where different aged students mix and personalized learning replaces standardized curriculum. Their goal is to inspire kids to love learning. For more information visit actonannarbor.com.
▪ Design! Tie rubber bands tightly around a white t-shirt to design your tie-dye art.
Dye
▪
Immerse the t-shirt in hot water first, wring it out, and then plunge it into the dye bath. Stir frequently with a stainless steel spoon. Dyeing will take 10-30 minutes depending on how saturated you would like the color to be.
▪
If you are using two or more colors dip and hold each section in dye.
Rinse and Dry
▪
Remove t-shirt with tongs or a stick and rinse under warm, then gradually cooler water until the water runs clear. (Tip - wear rubber gloves for this part so your hands don’t get dyed.)
▪
When you wash your shirt in the laundry for the first time: wash it alone in warm water, rinse it in cold water, then line or machine dry.
www.annarborfamily.com • August 2016 •
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North Star Reach’s seriously fun summer
Providing the summer camp experience for kids with serious health concerns by Zach Marburger
In most ways, North Star Reach is a typical summer camp. Campers can take archery lessons, fly through the forest on a zip-line, or go swimming in the lake. A classic summer camp experience, save for one important detail: North Star Reach is for kids with serious health conditions, who otherwise wouldn’t have the opportunity to enjoy an overnight camp. “It’s an authentic summer camp experience. We’re offering the same experiences that kids without medical challenges would have,” said Ami Walsh, Communications Manager for North Star Reach. “What makes it unique is that there is this amazing health center.” Walsh and the rest of North Star’s staff celebrated their grand opening June 25 and hosted their first batch of campers (a group of 100 transplant recipients) the first week of July. But creating the camp was a process that took two decades.
20 years in the making
North Star’s CEO is Doug Armstrong, a former nurse at The University of Michigan’s Transplant Center. It was during a trip with a group of transplant patients to an out-of-state summer camp 20 years ago when the idea for North Star first originated. That first trip was such a hit with his patients that Armstrong started looking for a place closer to Ann Arbor, one that could be built from the ground up. After years renting out YMCA facilities that lacked accessibility and healthcare availability, an opportunity arose when funding dried up to run the U-M Fresh Air Camp for urban youth in Pinckney. “The camp was no longer running, and these buildings were just abandoned — the roofs were falling in, the windows were broken, and U-M was going to sell the land,” said Walsh. Working with partners in the U-M Health System, and with support from SeriousFun, a charity organization founded by actor Paul Newman, Armstrong was able to rent the former camp for a dollar a year for 30 years.
Founder Doug Armstrong officially opens North Star up to the world. gural summer, North Star hosts three one-week camps, each accommodating 80-100 campers grouped by medical condition. Their eventual goal is to serve 1,500 children with serious illnesses annually. And while North Star can support kids with serious conditions, their primary focus is on making sure children have fun. “We want to make the medical support invisible, or in the background,” said Walsh. “It’s all about the kids coming and letting the illnesses that are part of their daily lives recede, while the camp experiences take center stage. But the support is there if they need it.” For more information, visit northstarreach.org. Campers bunk up for a complete summer camp experience.
Comfort, care and fun
After securing the location, the North Star team began renovations in July 2014. The crown jewel of the remodel, and the reason the camp can move forward, is its state-of-the-art medical facility. “It’s just a beautiful building. It’s got exam rooms. They can dispense a tremendous amount of medication. If a kid needs chemo treatment, they can get it at this health center,” said Walsh. “The medical team, they’re extremely experienced and talented.” The new medical facility means kids with serious illness are welcome to enjoy an experience they might otherwise have been denied. Campers are identified through hospital partners, and a medical committee determines eligibility. During this inau-
Learning doesn’t stop when the bell rings— show our readers what enrichment activities you offer in our
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Sport practice
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Science Center Dance class
Karate Class
North Star’s dining hall got a complete makeover.
Horseback Riding
• August 2016 • www.annarborfamily.com
THE LINES TWEEN advice for parents with children 10-16
Learning the ups and downs of skating at A2 Skatepark
Skateboarding is for everyone! Ann Arbor Skatepark – All Girls Skate by Laura Eliason
The Ann Arbor Skatepark’s motto is “Dream it. Build it. Skate it.” It took years of dreaming to see the 30,000 square foot maze of hills and valleys finally be built in 2014. Now for the ‘Skate it’ part. I pass the skatepark off Maple Avenue multiple times a day. During the summer months, and even in winter, there are people skateboarding. I would say it might even be the busiest park in Ann Arbor! It is definitely more common to see groups of boys skating but the park’s board is trying to change that with their All Girls Skate (AGS) instruction. Nina Juergens, one of the organizers of AGS, remembers sitting on the sidelines as a young girl watching her brothers skateboard and she wants to change that for girls in Ann Arbor.
All Girls Should Skate
Due to generous support from the Community Foundation, All Girls Skate has been running for the past two years to teach girls to skateboard! The skatepark board wanted to create programming to provide free instruction to girls and women. Nina Juergens shared that, “We wanted to make it so that the girls can participate and be their own superstars. It’s grown like crazy and it’s really a lot of fun.”
All Girls Can Skate
All Girls Skate instruction, for all experience levels of experience, runs from 9-11am every 2nd and 4th Sunday through September. “We hold it at a time when it’s usually pretty empty. They have the full two hours to use a lot of the park,
and to use it without anyone in their way. We encourage them to make friends with the other girls so they have someone to skate with,” said Nina. A woman leads the group and the class is a mix of instruction and skating. They have a few decks and helmets for those who don’t have the equipment yet or just aren’t sure if they will enjoy skating.
It’s For All the Girls
In addition to on-site class equipment, the Friends of the Ann Arbor Skatepark are pleased to offer financial need youth scholarships for equipment and transportation to use the skatepark. Applicants who are 7-17 years old, live in Washtenaw County, and qualify for free or reduced lunch in AAPS, are eligible to apply. Each award includes a skateboard, helmet, and other protective gear, if available (+bus passes for 12-17 year olds). For answers to scholarship question, contact Josh Meisler, Josh@a2skatepark.org. And, Juergens mentioned, she has seen a few mother-daughter teams show up for the class. “Girls shouldn’t be missing out on all the fun”, said Nina. “No commitment, no cost for anything, you can borrow everything, you can always just come by and watch. Come and see what you think. We have a lot of parents that will come and bring camp chairs to watch. Just show up and see what’s happening.” For more information visit a2skatepark.org or email info@a2skatepark.org.
www.annarborfamily.com • August 2016 •
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moMENts
healthy kids
The Halfway Point by Patrick Hempfing I unscrewed the child safety cap from the white, plastic bottle, and turned it upside down. A single Flintstones chewable vitamin, the last one in the bottle, dropped into the palm of my left hand. Since Jessie turned two, my days have begun this way. This morning though, the empty pill bottle feels a bit more significant. It’s Jessie’s first day of 5th grade. Except for the early wakeup call, Jessie says “Hooray.” She likes school and is anxious to see her friends. After a wonderful summer with lots of cherished moments, Dad says “Hooray,” too. I have more quiet time to write while Jessie is in school. It’s important that a writer writes.
Food Gatherers volunteers load up fruits and veggies for local schools
Jump-starting nutrition
The Healthy School Pantry Program puts families on the right track by Zach Marburger
5th Grade— The Halfway Point
Last night Jessie said, “Dad, as a 5th grader, I’m at the halfway point.” I quickly did the math in my head. Pre-K plus kindergarten plus grades 1-12 totals 14, divided by 2 equals seven. Pre-K done. Kindergarten complete. Grades 1-4 in the books. When Jessie completes 5th grade, indeed, she’ll be at the halfway point. I mentally walked to the bedroom, grabbed a pillow to place over my mouth, and yelled, “Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhh!” I didn’t actually do it, but the thought definitely crossed my mind. How can Jessie be a 5th grader? I just read, “Children 2 to 3 years of age – Chew one-half tablet daily with food” on the back of the Flintstones bottle. We’ve gone from a half tablet to a full tablet to empty bottle after empty bottle way too quickly. Jessie chewed her vitamin, drank her orange juice, ate her yogurt and oatmeal, and then went to get dressed. While she prepared for her big day, I packed her lunch and wrote a little note to include in her lunch bag, wishing her a great ‘first day of 5th grade’. Prior to driving Jessie to school, she rolled her book bag out to the driveway. Of course, I had to take a photo. Moments like this are meant to be captured.
Changing Seats
Over the summer, I allowed Jessie to move from the rear seat to the front passenger seat when it’s just the two of us in the vehicle. She loves to sit up front as it’s easy for her to change the radio station to songs I can barely understand. As I drove Jessie to school for the first time as a front-seat passenger, it felt strange. I couldn’t help but recall when I was buckling my baby in her car seat. I recalled the days I carried my little girl into the house when she fell asleep in the car, or pretended to, which we called “playing possum.” This morning, however, I didn’t see my baby. I didn’t see the little girl with the squished-tight eyes and smile playing possum, though Jessie would have enjoyed an extra hour or two of sleep. No, today, I saw a girl who could easily pass for a teenager. During the drive, I shared my standard lines, “Give it your all,” “keep a positive attitude,” and “tell the boys your dad has golf clubs” (to chase them away from my little girl). Reluctantly, I dropped her off at the carpool lane, rather than holding her hand and walking her to class as we had done in previous years. The wheels of her coral-colored book bag hit the sidewalk, and she headed off to 5th grade. I’m confident Jessie will have a great year in school. She’ll need some more vitamins, though. On my way to pick up a bottle, I might need to stop at the donut shop for some “glazed comfort.” Until next month, remember to cherish the moments. Patrick Hempfing had a 20-year professional career in banking, accounting, and auditing before he became a father at age 44. He is now a full-time husband, stay-at-home dad, and writer. Follow Patrick at facebook.com/patricklhempfing and on Twitter @PatrickHempfing. 10
Nutrition (or lack thereof) in school meals remains in the spotlight over the years. Gone are the days when kids had the option of chicken nuggets or a slice of pizza every day after third period — most schools now have at least one healthy option available during school hours. But eating right at school is just one part of making sure kids are getting the nutrition they need to truly thrive. Eating right starts at home. However, that doesn’t mean that parents and kids looking to eat right are on their own. Launched in 2012, Food Gatherers’ Healthy School Pantry Program distributes produce and fruit to eight school around Washtenaw County. Parents can pick up their kids and a selection of fruits and vegetables at the same time.
Selecting schools
Area schools are selected for the program because a majority of their students are eligible for free or reduced price lunches. Providing the produce to schools makes it easy for families to pick up food on their way home. The program is not limited to families whose children are eligible for free or reduced meals; anyone with a child attending a participating school can benefit. In the words of Eileen Spring CEO and President of Food Gatherers, hosting the program at early education schools where everyone can participate means, “There’s no stigma, which can be a challenge. It really creates a community where people feel more dignified.” Food Gatherers is limited by how many schools they can reach with the pantry program.
• August 2016 • www.annarborfamily.com
“That can be tricky,” said Spring. “Because there might be a school where 30 percent of the students go through food insecurity, but we just can’t get there.” Luckily, there are options for families still looking to receive more healthy food. Food Gatherers works with over 150 partners to provide pantry access across Washtenaw County. A full list and locations are available at foodgatheres.org/needfood.
Take it home too
Filling the pantry with fresh and local fruits and vegetables is only part of the Panty Program’s mission — parents need to know what to do with all that food! In addition the program provides low-cost recipe ideas selected by their dietician. The food available is based of what has been donated and seasonal availability, although the team tries to include a variety of produce in each shipment. This fall, Spring says families can be on the lookout for, “Squash, tomatoes and apples. Variety is key.” Food Gatherers is always on the lookout for volunteers, to help them reach Washtenaw County’s children. Interested? Email info@foodgatherers.org. For participating schools and to find out more about other programs, visit foodgatherers.org
Maureen Fagin, with her team of volunteers, knits caps for cancer patients
Whitmore Lake Yarn Company Mending Hearts One Stitch at a Time by Tami Sackett
Maureen Fagin is a mother of four, grandmother of five, a lover of all things fiber and the sole owner of Whitmore Lake Yarn Company. Fagin started knitting when she was 8-years-old, and after dropping the habit, became reacquainted thanks to her mother-in-law, with the art of yarn 20 years later. 12 years ago she joined the Whitmore Lake Yarn Company with two partners; and with the love and support of her husband Gary and her family the shop has been going strong ever since. Fagin’s store, across the street from Whitmore Lake, has beautiful lake views and a tranquil setting, is separated into two sections: the shopping area, which includes gorgeous yarns from quality manufacturers and flows into the sunroom where Fagin holds classes for beginner-toadvanced level yarn enthusiasts.
Mending Hearts One Stitch at a Time
As a native of Ann Arbor who moved to South Lyon, Fagin has developed a deep commitment to her community. Her charity knitters, a group which started 12 years ago, have knitted and crocheted for many local organizations including Northfield Human Services, which provides families assistance with food and clothing, The Huron Valley Optimist Club, Mott’s Children’s Hospital and St. Joseph Mercy Hospital, creating hundreds of hats for premature babies and chemo caps
for cancer patients. Whitmore Lake Yarn Company has also created and donated skull caps and helmet liners for troops fighting overseas. “My clientele and regular knitters are so great. All I have to do is send the word out and the donations start pouring in,” said Fagin. Whitmore Lake Yarn Company is also a year round collection center for Knit Michigan, an organization that knits hats for cancer patients. The charity knitters meet every Wednesday from 10am-noon and knit or crochet for the recipient charity of the month. “Although my charity knitters get the ball rolling,” says Fagin, “I have donations from many others who have heard about the charity and wanted to be included.” “When you have a talent, like knitting or crocheting, I believe you should share it with others,” says Fagin. Whether it’s creating something to give to another or teaching someone your talent, Fagin says it makes a difference, which is a rare gift indeed, even more so when it’s handmade. To attend classes, make donations or just stop by for some coffee and conversation, contact Whitmore Lake Yarn Company, 9535 Main St., Whitmore Lake. 734-449-9688. Facebook.com/pages/Whitmore-Lake-Yarn-Co.
www.annarborfamily.com • August 2016 •
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Be a paperwork pro
FAMILPreYss
2016
guide
Summer may seem like it is still in full swing, but sorry children - playtime is over! It’s time to head back to school, and we’re here to help. Parents and disappointed kids, get ready for the start of a new semester with tips and tricks from our experts!
Back to school with baby on board Getting your big kid off to a great start when there’s a new baby in the house by Malia Jacobson
Back-to-school season can be a bumpy ride for parents at every stage—especially when there’s a new younger sibling riding along. Calming your older child’s back-toschool nerves is harder when a needy infant is competing for your attention. Numerous new-school year events, like meet the teacher night or a classroom tour, are made more complex with a little one in your care. Should one parent attend or both? Do we need a sitter? What if the baby screams the entire time? And schlepping a squirming baby through complex pick-up and drop-off routines is enough to make you long for the simplicity of summer break. Here’s how to conquer back-to-school with a baby in tow.
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Mountains of baby laundry and sleepless nights—and you’re supposed to complete kindergarten worksheets, too? Count on it. Most schools send home piles of paperwork which will likely require parental assistance, even at the earliest grade levels. Put together a paperwork plan before school starts, and you won’t find yourself drowning in permission slips, homework sheets or reading worksheets in a few weeks. Pick spots to store different types of send-homes: Once-yearly reference materials like the school handbook and class contact list, monthly worksheets and calendars, and daily work (a hanging wall file with several slots works well). When you clean out your schoolchild’s backpack each night, you will be able to swiftly put everything in its place. Consider pre-printing address labels with grandparents’ addresses and storing them close at hand along with envelopes and stamps, so that when your child brings home her tenth rendition of the family cat, you can pop it in the mail for her admiring fans instead of filing it in the recycle bin.
Avoid drop-off drama
Don’t show up unprepared. Step one for smooth school scheduling, especially with multiple children in your care, is figuring out school day logistics before the big day. Find out your child’s exact drop-off and pick-up times (yes, in the school world, there’s a difference between 9:02 and 9:05), where parents should park, how much time you’ll need to get there, and what to expect throughout the process. A few common queries to work out: Do parents walk kids onto the playground each morning and greet teachers there in the afternoon, or do parents stay in their cars and pull through a curbside loop for drop-off and pick-up? Are parents allowed to walk young children into their classrooms and stay if children are upset? Are younger siblings allowed to play on the school’s playground equipment before and after school? Can your child’s school entryway easily accommodate a stroller, or will you need to walk up stairs? (Though some schools allow these things, some don’t, so don’t assume—ask.) If the information isn’t readily available on the school’s website, call the office or search online for the school’s Facebook page where you can post a question.
Transportation station
Once you have the necessary info at hand, devise your family school-transportation plan. If you’ll be walking an older sibling to school or into the classroom with a baby in tow, bring a stroller or baby carrier to make things easier, along with comfort items for the baby (pacifiers, a blankie) and perhaps a snack or two.
• August 2016 • www.annarborfamily.com
Most likely, no matter your school’s policies on pick-up and drop-off, you’ll spend some time waiting around, either in a line of cars or outside at your school’s designated parent pick up spot. To ease the wait for your littlest one, consider storing baby entertainment in the car: a few board books, soft toys, rattles, and teethers can make the difference between a pleasant pick-up or a screaming nightmare. Remember to pack an after-school snack for your schoolchild, too—after some nourishing noshing, he’ll be in better spirits and more inclined to transition smoothly into an afternoon spent with younger sibling(s). Malia Jacobson is a nationally published journalist and mom of three. She’s survived a few drop-off disasters with multiple kids in tow and lives to tell the tale.
continued on page 14
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continued from page 13
Back to School Fashion Making sure they look good on a budget by Tami Sackett
It’s almost the end of summer, the weather is turning cooler, the days are getting shorter and thoughts of getting the kiddies back to school is on every parent’s mind. If you haven’t started your back to school shopping yet, don’t fret, there is still time and some great savings to be had. Check out the top 10 list of shopping for school clothes without breaking the bank. Happy Shopping!
Shop Resale/ Consignment stores.
Figure out a budget and stick to it!
Resale shops are a great way to trade in gently used items for newer items. Some resale shops will give cash up front, so you can turn right around and make purchases on other items. Consignment stores take a little longer to get your money back so this means items may take time to sell.
n one If you have more tha ea ’t sy. But child, you know this isn yourself set to be fair, you should a limit per child.
Where Every Child is Valued and Nutured!
Update their wardrobe. If you are creative , see what items you can make look new again by adding flare or some pa tches. Even shoes can receiv e an update with some fabric glue and a little imagination. Check out Joann Fabrics or Michae ls for some fun and easy craft ideas. Make it fun by getting everyone involv ed in the process.
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Use Groupon and similar groups. This is a great way to get immediate savings on everything from clothing to school supplies.
Stay out of the higher priced stores. less, Remember you can get more with e thos on ts insis however, if your child let ld shou you , kers brand name snea they them know this is the only new item on. seas ol scho new the for get can
Shop later. Sales are usually better if you can wait until October when the stores are making room for the Christmas inventory.
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14
• August 2016 • www.annarborfamily.com
Take inventory of your kid’s closet. Little ones definitely grow out of their clothes fast, but some things may be recyclable. For teens and tweens, some of their older pairs of jeans may still fit, but need some mending or embellishment. Since ripped jeans are still in, they are already in fashion!
Lastly… …every parent wants to give their child ren the world, but keep in m ind the difference between w hat kids need for school and what they just want. Keep a list, and if you can’t get the w ant right now, save it as a re ward for good grades or a gift for upcoming holidays and bi rthdays.
SPONSORED CONTENT
Advice from the Principal's office Dr. Seth W. Kopald, Head of School at Daycroft Montessori 100 Oakbrook Dr. 734-930-0333. daycroft.org
What’s the best way parents can help with homework? Parents should ask their children if they have homework every day and show an interest in their work. Having a consistent time of day and removing distractions such as phones and Netflix is helpful as well. Enough with the apples. What’s the best Teacher Appreciation gift students can give you? First off, parents can let teachers know how much they appreciate them and give specific examples of how they help your child grow and be successful. In the same vein, teachers get lots of “stuff.� I believe they would appreciate a note from the student, thanking them for something or sharing their favorite lesson. What happens if a parent has a challenge with a teacher or school material? What are helpful hints to facilitate resolution? Parents are encouraged to talk directly to teachers about their concerns. Communication is effective if both parties are interested in a solution
rather than pointing fingers. Know that teachers are more open and responsive when we approach them with respect and from a calm place. If you are angry or frustrated, talk about the anger and frustration rather than from the anger and frustration; don’t let either take you over while you are having the conversation. Ann Arbor has a pretty active home-schooling community. What are advantages of attending school with other kids? There is no perfect learning environment that fits all children. Some children may thrive best in an home-school environment. One advantage of attending school with peers is having more opportunities to collaborate without adults always running the show. Children need time to play together, sort out their own rules, and let off steam. Many home-school families create social groups for this purpose as well. In addition, when children learn together they cocreate ideas, invent their own theories, and challenge each other to grow. continued on page 17
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• August 2016 • www.annarborfamily.com
continued from page 15
Recipe of the Month
NOELUW MN C
A safe place for young people to explore their creativity!
Fun and flavorful batches of recipes for families on the go.
Morning Drama Camps
Breakfast to go!
Ages 5-9 9:00 am - noon
$170
By Laura Eliason
School is starting soon and this year your goal is: the kids will eat a healthy breakfast before school. For a break from cereal here is a great option— tortilla roll ups— sweet, savory, quick and nutritious.
Under the Sea: August 1-5
Strawberry Banana Roll Ups (Makes 2 servings)
Preschool and Young 5’s Programs
Ingredients 1 large whole wheat tortilla ¼ cup nut butter 1 ripe banana
Accepting Enrollments for the 2016-2017 School Year
3 ripe strawberries, sliced Optional toppings Drizzle of honey (or a chocolate hazelnut spread like Nutella) Jam
Nature: August 8-12
Magical Creatures: August 15-19
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Flax seeds
Chocolate chips Instructions • Lay your tortilla on a flat surface (or a paper towel to make it truly to go). Spread the nut butter on the tortilla, concentrating it more in the center.
ONE-ON-ONE
Individualized Center-Based Treatment
• Set your peeled banana and strawberries in the center along with any additional toppings.
NOW ENROLLING
• Roll, slice in half, and enjoy! For a less sweet breakfast, a great option: omelette muffins. These muffins are full of protein and veggies. It’s easy to prepare a batch and they are delicious!
Call Us to Schedule a Tour
Flexible Schedule
Omelette Muffins
(Makes about 12-16 muffins) Ingredients
Ages 2-18
2 sausages, removed from casing
After school hours available
¼ cup finely chopped red pepper ¼ cup finely grated carrot
½ cup chopped fresh spinach
Offering Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy services for individuals with autism or other developmental disorders
3 tablespoons freshly chopped basil Salt and Pepper 10-12 eggs
Instructions • Preheat oven to 375 and grease a 12-cup muffin pan with cooking spray. • In a skillet, cook sausage until no longer pink and it is broken up into small pieces. • In a medium bowl, combine the cooked sausage, all the chopped veggies and basil. • In a bowl, beat together eggs, salt, and pepper. Pour egg mixture into the veggie and sausage mixture and stir to combine. • Fill muffin cups with the egg mixture leaving some room for the muffins to expand (don’t fill to the top of the cup).
Empowering Children and Families to Live Fully
4201 Varsity Dr., Suite B&C • Ann Arbor, MI 48108 NEW LOCATION
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• Bake muffins for 20-25 minutes or until eggs are set in the middle. Muffins can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
www.annarborfamily.com • August 2016 •
17
Dexter Daze: A Festival in a City Still with byaJennifer Small Town Feel Brough
Kids play along with musicians at Dexter Daze. Now in its 44th year, Dexter Daze, scheduled for August 12–13, has something for everyone— from artist booths, to great music, to good food— letting the kids be kids. This community celebration has grown over the years into an event that attracts thousands of people. Planned by a dedicated group of volunteers and supported by many local businesses and organizations, the event includes everything from big bands, fine arts vendors, the Dexter Community Orchestra teaching kids about musical instruments, and school groups.
Pace returns to her roots
KayLyn Pace returns to Dexter Daze; she in the Ann Arbor - Dexter area before her family moved away due to her father’s work. At the age of eight, while living in Tennessee, Pace sang her first solo in a school concert. At 11, Pace began singing in local competitions and learned to play the guitar. “My mom started booking shows for me and I had my own three part band by the time I was 14. My grandpa helped me learn the guitar, but I think I am a natural player. Now the guitar goes everywhere with me.” Pace now performs locally whenever she can. She recently performed at the Chuck Wagon in Dexter with Matthew Bryan and has been opening shows for Bucky Covington, another American Idol favorite. Come see KayLyn perform on Friday, August 12 at 4:00 pm at the gazebo.
KayLyn Pace returns to Dexter. 18
• August 2016• www.annarborfamily.com
UPCOMING ISSUE...
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American’s Nature Guy shows off his critters.
America’s Nature Guy, Peter Schriemer encourages kids to explore the outdoor world
Another talent will delight kids and adults at 2:00 pm on Thursday, August 11. Peter Schriemer, well known as America’s Nature Guy, loves teaching kids about nature. With a perfect backdrop of Mill Creek, he’ll have giant toads, some turtles, a bearded dragon, and a couple of snakes with him! Schriemer says, “I was wired to explore the outdoors. I’ve been interested in nature since I could crawl and by age 14 I was leading local nature hikes for younger kids.” By 17, he was hosting a PBS nature program, Beyond Your Doorstep. Schriemer comments, “Kids can spend up to seven hours or even more in front of a screen every day, and when they are missing a whole great big natural world out there.” Schriemer, a multi-talented performer, is a professional storyteller, makes films with the US Fish and Wildlife Service, and teaches kids to be adventurous. “One of the best things was helping a small boy, desperately afraid of snakes, work his way through his fears and eventually becoming brave enough to reach out and touch a snake.” Schriemer is focused on challenging young kids to “Be an adventurer in the great outdoors.”
Never without a smile, Yo-Yo Zeemo delights both kids and adults
The popular Yo-Yo Zeemo, entertaining kids at Dexter Daze since the early 90s, prides himself on being able to connect with kids and spark their imagination and curiosity. When he’s not performing at parties, festivals or trade shows, Zeemo is teaching at local schools and libraries. “Kids might initially think of me as an entertainer. What I’m really doing is teaching physics. They get to learn about things such as energy, gravity, centrifugal force, and laser light. Kids want to try yo-yoing or juggling. I’ve got them thinking about how things work.” “I’ve been making people smile and laugh since my college days on the UM gymnastics team,” said Zeemo. He’s now entertaining and teaching kids and loves that his work spans generations. “I believe that the kids are the future and it’s a great joy and honor to be able to show them a bit of how the world works, oh and yes, also make them smile and laugh.” Go to dexterdaze.org to plan your visit to Dexter Daze. Yo-Yo Zeemo will clown around with kids.
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www.annarborfamily.com • August 2016 •
19
From STEM to STEAM
Ann Arbor Public Schools are balancing out their curriculum to build more creative kids by Donna Iadipaolo
Ann Arbor Public Schools (AAPS) stays true to a mission, formally adopted two years ago, by creating a different kind of integrated curriculum. “Feedback from the district parent community indicated that there was a desire for another K-8 building option in addition to Ann Arbor Open,” said Joan Fitzgibbon, Principal of A2 Steam at Northside. “The district made the decision not only to open a second K-8 building but also to offer a different type of programming-- STEAM focused and project-based learning.” STEAM is an acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics. For years, schools have been pushing “STEM” (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) in the curriculum. The “art” discipline was added to the acronym (and the curriculum) to foster more creative and critical thinking.
“This year, the district is furthering their support of STEAM learning. Students can participate in STEAM focused after-school clubs such as Robotics and Rec & Ed offerings. Very recently, the first district-wide STEAM Expo was held. A2 STEAM was represented by our Vex 1Q Robotics team, our third graders’ art and technology collaborative clay and 3D printing project, and our sixth grade team with their Fibonacci books.”
Subject integration
According to Fitzgibbon, much of current STEAM pedagogy is philosophical in nature. “The impetus behind the STEAM education trend, which is more accurately an educational philosophy rather than a program, is the understanding that students need to be prepared for a future in which employers will be looking for people who Supporting Creativity possess Success Skills: Communication, Collaboration, “It is great to have a broad foundation in math and sci“…the understanding Creativity, and Critical Thinking,” said Fitzgibbon. ence,” said Charles B. Centivany Jr., a technology teachthat students need to “Content knowledge is interwoven, layered and soer, who works at Forsythe Middle School and Skyline phisticated, not experienced in isolation. STEAM edHigh School. “Adding the ‘A’- Art, to our program, be prepared for a future ucation engages students to be problem-solvers, inallows us to explore material in the classroom with in which employers will be novators, inventors, and creative, logical thinkers.” vigorous creativity. We encourage students to generlooking for people who possess By creating well-rounded students, and eliminatate wild, nonlinear, ideas; we encourage students to Success Skills: Communication, ing the lines between subjects, the Ann Arbor School observe the world around them through the lens of District hopes to create more agile minds, ready to the artist/designer—identify design elements, and Collaboration, Creativity, and confront and thrive when presented with challenges. ask ‘why did the designers choose to do it this way?’ Critical Thinking,” This culminates in what they call the STEAM Expo, Fostering this creativity in our students, results in proj—Joan Fitzgibbon, an exposition that features students’ projects, covering ects where the students have claimed an identity, and subjects from across the STEAM spectrum.Fitzgibbon dePrincipal of A2 Steam therefore, a lasting learning moment.” scribed the projects presented this past school year at her The push to emphasize art is also helping students, who school’s first STEAM Expo. might traditionally not go into technology and science, take a “At the first EXPO, students presented projects around the second look at this field. importance of weather, healthy eating, states of matter, and weather “One of my most pleasant surprises of starting to teach at the middle school level, has been working with middle school girls,” said Centivany. patterns and natural disasters.” Thanks to the approach of Ann Arbor Public Schools, kids can now begin to “There have been many studies that suggest that girls, in particular, lose interest in math and science in late elementary school or in middle school. I find that approach, master, and hopefully solve the problems facing the world today. most of my female students are excited about STEAM, eager to come to class, To find out more about the STEAM philosophy at Ann Arbor Public Schools, visit and excel at the work.” a2schools.org Principal Fitzgibbon also described how STEAM has expanded throughout the district in the past year.
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• August 2016• www.annarborfamily.com
Flavor with Flare
Sabor Latino’s inspired Latin American cuisine by Katy M. Clark
Sabor Latino
211 N. Main St Ann Arbor, MI 48104 Phone: (734) 214-7775 Hours: Mon: 11am-9pm; Tue: 11am-11pm; Wed-Thurs: 11am-9pm; Fri-Sat 11am-11pm; Sun 11am-9pm annarborsabor.com Across from the courthouse on North Main sits Sabor Latino. Let the record reflect that the only thing the restaurant is guilty of is offering authentic Latin American cuisine from Mexico, Cuba and beyond. Sabor Latino has patio seating and two dining rooms, one occupied by a bar. My family of four sat at a table in the main dining room surrounded by natural brick and yellow walls, with a touch of Latin accent. We started with drinks including a lime margarita for my husband. “Take a picture,” my daughter, 9, instructed when the margarita arrived. “I can’t,” I replied. “Why?” “It’s a family magazine.” “Well, shouldn’t you tell everyone they have alcohol?” she asked. Good point. Our drinks complemented a basket of tortilla chips and salsa. The first basket is free, extras are $1.50. Instead of more chips, we decided to move on to chorizo and cheese in the Queso Flameado dip ($6.55), served with flour tortillas. Lit on fire tableside, the service presentation of the dip was exciting, and it tasted delicious, and slightly greasy, in a good way. We demolished it. Other appetizer choices included nachos, flautas (taco-ingredient stuffed tortillas, rolled and fried), and Argentinestyle empanadas.
Mexican and more
Sabor Latino offers a bevy of Mexican and Latin American-inspired dishes, like fish tacos, Pabellon Criollo (shredded beef with Venezuelan style vegetables),
and various types of ceviche, a dish where the seafood is marinated and “cooked” in the acidic juice of citrus fruit. My son, 12, appreciates fish and ordered the Ceviche Mexicano ($6.99), tilapia marinated in lime juice topped with avocado slices and shrimp, served with tostadas. I was drawn to the Pupusas Dinner ($10.99), a Salvadoran meal. It was described as two thick handmade corn cakes stuffed with cheese, topped with pastor (marinated pork), fresh cabbage, more cheese and salsa, served with white rice and black beans. My husband selected the Pollo Asado ($13.99): pan-grilled chicken breast, marinated in a Puerto Rican sauce (made with olive oil, garlic, cumin, oregano, lime juice, vinegar and other ingredients), served with white rice, Puerto Rican style beans, and fried plantains. The kid’s menu offered a taco, quesadilla, enchilada, salad, Tarta de Queso (Mexican bun stuffed with cheese, lettuce and tomato), or a 3-Meat Combo with broiled chicken, grilled steak and pastor served with beans, rice and tortillas ($3-$7.55). Sides included Mexican rice, pinto beans, fries, and potato wedges ($3). My daughter picked a steak taco and Mexican rice.
¡Buen apetito!
The pace at Sabor Latino was relaxed yet energetic as Latin music pulsed overhead. When it was time to dig in, I found my pupusas flavorful and spicy. I liked how the corn cakes absorbed the marinated pork. The cabbage added crunch and the cheese contributed a milky mellowness. “Tasty sauce,” my husband commented referring to his Pollo Asada. He felt the chicken was a bit overcooked, but enjoyed the dish overall, including the flavorsome beans and sweet plantains. I wondered if one taco would be enough for my daughter. However, it came with copious amounts of meat and cheese. “No words,” she commented. “Because it’s that good?” “Yes!” My son started strong and finished weak. “You can really taste the flavors,” he enthused. However, the ceviche was more like a chopped salad than a fillet. He soon shunned any tilapia that touched onion, tomato, cilantro or lettuce. Oh well, that meant tasty leftovers for Mom and Dad. Our bellies full of Latin American goodness, we passed on dessert. Next time we might try delicacies such as churros, plantains, flan or Mexican ice cream.
The Short Course Kid-friendly: Yes
To avoid wait: Skip Taco Tuesday when crowds abound…or brave the crowd and visit for the $1 tacos! Noise level: Moderate to high
Bathroom amenities: Changing table in women’s, not men’s High chairs? Yes and boosters
Got milk? Yes, plus pop, lemonade, and Jarritos soda from Mexico Kids’ menu? Yes
Anything healthy for kids? Try the kid’s salad sans sour cream Food allergy concerns? Let them know your concerns and they will try to accommodate you.
ANNARBORFAMILY.COM www.annarborfamily.com • August 2016 •
21
{August 2016 }
Lighten up Regular visitors will recognize Professor Ray. He gives amusing and informative lectures on science topics that will entertain kids and surprise adults. His latest presentation will light up the Hands-On Museum; Everyday Science: Luminosity focuses on different energy (mechanical, chemical, heat etc.) gets converted into light. Attendees will see how everyday objects light up, including soda and a pickle. This presentation will light up the room, as well as minds!
All calendar events are subject to change, cancellation and limited size. Calling ahead for confirmation is recommended.
1 MONDAY Happily Ever After Camp - A week of storytelling and story-making! For ages 4-6. Runs through August 4. 10am. $110. Wild Swan Theater, 6175 Jackson Rd. 734-995-0530. wildswantheater.org Teen Oil Painting - This oil painting basics course will prepare participants for mastering more complex subjects and will serve as an introduction to the luscious medium of oil paint. No Experience is necessary and all materials are included. For ages 13-17. Runs through August 4. 1-3pm. $150. Ann Arbor Art Center, 117 W. Liberty St. 734-994-8004. annarborartcenter.org
2 TUESDAY National Ice Cream Sandwich Day Celebrate National Ice Cream Sandwich Day by making cute polymer clay charm earrings and necklaces! 7pm. Ann Arbor District Library Malletts Creek, 3090 E. Eisenhower Pkwy. 734-327-4200. aadl.org Free
4 THURSDAY Little Paws Story Time - Little Paws story time will keep tots engaged through stories, crafts, and animal interactions! For ages 2-5. 10:30am. $5. Humane Society of Huron Valley, 3100 Cherry Hill Rd. 734-662-5585. hshv.org
5 FRIDAY Dollar Movie: Diary of a Wimpy Kid - The comedic trials and tribulations of one kid looking to survive middle school. 10am. $1. Quality 16, 3686 Jackson Rd. 734-623-7469. goodrichqualitytheaters.com
6 SATURDAY Family Camp Out - Crafts, fishing, nature programs, night hike and more. 2-6pm. $7. Rolling Hills Park, 7660 Stony Creek Rd. 734-484-9676. parks.ewashtenaw.org
7 SUNDAY Sunday Afternoon Naturalists: Reptiles and Amphibians - Search out reptiles and amphibians as the group hikes back to the vernal pond in Black Pond Woods. 3:15pm. $1. Leslie Science and Nature Center, 1831 Traver Rd. 734-997-1553. lesliesnc.org Summer Woods Park - Explore wet and dry woodlands including oak-hickory habitat and a small buttonbush swamp. Identify plants, look for signs of animal life and explore where the woods meets the wetlands. 2-4pm. Squiers Preserve, Sylvan Rd., Chelsea. 734-971-6337. parksonline.ewashtenaw.org Free
8 MONDAY Show Me Nutrition Teen Cooking Class - Cooking and nutrition classes for teens. Create tasty meals and snacks that include seasonal foods. Also on August 22. 5:30pm. Ypsilanti District Library, 229 W. Michigan Ave. 734-482-4110. ypsilibrary.org Free 22
Teen Illustration and Character Creation - The course will cover the concept of character design as it relates to developing a story for comics, video games, or animation. Runs through August 11. For ages 13-18. 10:30am-12:30pm. $150. Ann Arbor Art Center, 117 W. Liberty St. 734-994-8004. annarborartcenter.org
Saturday, August 6 and Sunday, August 7. 1pm and 3pm. $12. Ann Arbor Hands On-Museum, 220 E. Ann St. 734-995-5439. aahom.org
Sing along in Austria
All’s Well That #Trends Well Explore themes, language, and characters of Shakespeare’s more famous plays and create interpretation of a Shakespearean story to present at the end of the week. Include social media, music, movement, and more to bring the Bard to 2016. For ages 11-15. 9:30am. $160. Wild Swan Theater, 6175 Jackson Rd. 734-995-0530. wildswantheater.org
For two days in August, The Michigan Theater will be alive with the Sound of Music! Based on the life of Maria von Trapp, matriarch of the Trapp Family Singers, The Sound of Music is one of the, if not the, most celebrated musicals of all time. Experience it in a brand-new way during the Sing-Along Sound of Music event. Kids and their parents can sing along with Julie Andrews thanks to onscreen lyrics. There will also be goody bags (including a few of everyone’s favorite things) and more!
Make Music with Nature - Our earth is full of musical experiences, and young children are natural musicians. Explore rhythms and melody with a variety of rustic and nature-based instruments. 10am. Matthaei Botanical Gardens, 1800 N. Dixboro Rd. 734-647-7600. lsa.umich.edu Free
Sunday, August 21 at 1:30pm and Tuesday, August 23 at 7pm. $13-$16. Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty St. 734-668-8463. michtheater.org
Nature Concert Singer/songwriter Joe Reilly has spent the past 14 years touring around the United States, performing songs that connect kids with nature. But his home base is right here in Michigan, and it’s where he discovered his spiritual side — as a student of Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh and a practicing Catholic with Native American roots and Buddhist influences, he has brought his songwriting to different churches and temples. That’s because his music is able to transcend boundaries by focusing on the natural and spiritual world. His fun lyrics will get kids dancing and singing along while they learn.
11 THURSDAY Pass the Mic - Stage presence and vocal workshops to help prepare youth to perform in front of an audience. Led by Akili Jackson, with invitations to local vocalists and performers. For ages 12-18. 5:30pm. Ypsilanti District Library, 229 W. Michigan Ave. 734-482-4110. ypsilibrary.org Free Perseid Meteor Shower Viewing Peak viewing night to see shooting stars. Naturalist Ron Gamble will give a short talk on meteor shower viewing at 9pm. Preregistration required; please check event status in event of inclement weather. 9pm-1am. Independence Lake Park, 3200 Jennings Rd., Whitmore Lake. 734-971-6337. parksonline.ewashtenaw.org Free
Sunday, August 21. 2pm. Ann Arbor District Library Downtown, 343 S. Fifth Ave. 734-327-4200. aadl.org Free Photo Credit: Michelle Massey Barnes Photography
13 SATURDAY Gabe Bolkosky’s Icky, Sticky Things in Music - Gabe’s performances have focused in the areas of contemporary music, jazz and tango as well as traditional classical music. He will also be featuring his new book, Annie and the Icky, Sticky, Picky, Tricky Knot. Don’t miss the last performance of the summer series! Also on Sunday at 1pm. 11am. $12. Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum, 220 E. Ann St. 734-995-5439. aahom.org Raptor Feeding - Join LSNC raptor staff every second Saturday of the month for dinner time. This will also be an opportunity to touch feathers, see a hawk or owl pellet and discover more about bird anatomy. 3pm. Leslie Science and Nature Center, 1831 Traver Rd. 734-997-1553. lesliesnc.org Free
16 TUESDAY Cat Tales Story Time - Kids will love to listen to stories, to complete crafts and pal around with the cats at Tiny Lions. For ages 2-5. 10:30am. $5. Tiny Lions Lounge, 5245 Jackson Rd. 734-661-3575. tinylions.org
Summer Camp-In - Join the AADL for a family camp-in with musician Sara Melton Keller! Sit around a campfire, sing songs, and tell stories. It will be a fun night for the whole family! For ages preschool-grade 3. 7pm. Ann Arbor District Library Pittsfield, 2359 Oak Valley Dr. 734-327-4200. aadl.org Free
17 WEDNESDAY Teen Tie Dye - Try tie dye and make a colorful shirt or pair of socks! The library will provide the dye, rubber bands and an item for dying. Bring any additional items. For ages 12-18. Ypsilanti District Library Whittaker, 5577 Whittaker Rd. 734-482-4110. ypsilibrary.org Free Half Day Mixed Media - Create one or more pieces of art that can range from acrylic on canvas to a beautiful collage. Watercolor, pastels and professional colored pencils/markers may also be used in this class. For ages 3-5. 9am. $20. Flipside Art Studio, 255 E. Liberty St. #213. 734-997-5066. flipsideartstudio.com
• August 2016• www.annarborfamily.com
Joel’s Page Racer Comedy Show Comedy, magic, music, and lots of audience participation highlight this exciting, wholesome youth program that will have kids and grown-ups laughing out loud and crazy about reading. For ages K-5. 7pm. Ann Arbor District Library Downtown, 343 S. Fifth Ave. 734-327-4200. aadl.org Free
18 THURSDAY Teddy Bear Clinic - Ann Arbor HandsOn Museum and CS Mott Children’s Hospital team up for a day full of healthy fun! Explore various healthcare professions, and see the science behind medical procedures in a Teddy Bear Clinic. 10am. $12. Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum, 220 E. Ann St. 734-995-5439. aahom.org
19 FRIDAY Movie in the Park: Zootopia - A rabbit police officer and a foxy con artist team up to solve a major mystery. 6:30pm. Mill Pond Park, 565 W. Bennett St., Saline. 734-429-3502. cityofsaline.org Free
Pets and Pajamas Movie Night Children are invited to wear their pajamas, bring a sleeping bag and pillow and be ready for some animal-themed fun while parents enjoy a night out on the town. For ages 5-11. 5-9pm. $35/ first child, $15/each additional child. Humane Society of Huron Valley, 3100 Cherry Hill Rd. 734-661-3575. hshv.org Cockadoodle Doo! Stories - AADL teams up with the Humane Society of Huron Valley for a storytime about animals and how they communicate. An adoptable dog will also be present to help little ones learn how to meet a dog and practice their animal communication skills. For preschool-grade 2. 11am. Ann Arbor District Library Downtown, 343 S. Fifth Ave. 734-327-4200. aadl.org Free
20 SATURDAY Dive-In Movie: Jaws - Bring an inner tube and float in the pool during the Dive-In Movie— keep an eye out for fins. 8:30pm. $4/children and seniors, $5/ adult. Fuller Park Pool, 1519 Fuller Rd. 734-794-6236. a2gov.org
21 SUNDAY Sing-Along Grease - Good girl Sandy and greaser Danny fell in love over the summer. When they unexpectedly discover they’re now in the same high school, will they be able to rekindle their romance? 1:30pm Sunday, 7pm Tuesday. $13. Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty. 734-668-8463. michtheater.org A Good Old Fashioned Campfire Circle - Bring s’mores fixings and enjoy a roaring fire! 6:30pm. Leslie Science and Nature Center, 1831 Traver Rd. 734-997-1553. lesliesnc.org Free
23 TUESDAY Electronic Music Production - It’s time for electronic music production when Detroit sound designer Mike Huckaby returns to AADL for this popular workshop. 7pm. Ann Arbor District Library Downtown, 343 S. Fifth Ave. 734-327-4200. aadl.org Free
26 FRIDAY Family Mew-vie Night - A place for your family to snuggle with cats while enjoying popcorn and a family friendly movie, rated G or PG. 7pm. $7. Tiny Lions Lounge, 5245 Jackson Rd. 734-661-3575. tinylions.org
27 SATURDAY Noise Permit - Noise Permit is a performance by teens, for teens. It’s coordinated by a group of teen music interns that work with the Ypsilanti District Library and Ozone House all summer to produce the show. 2-7pm. Frog Island Park, Market Pl. 734-482-4110. ypsilibrary.org Free Kids Day - Join White Lotus Farm for their monthly Kids Day. Fun, educational activities for the entire family with a chance to meet farm animals, listen to music, and enjoy face-painting. 9:30am. White Lotus Farms, 7217 W. Liberty Rd. 734-707-1284. whitelotusfarms.com Free
marketplace
Sunday-Friday
Baby Playgroups - Each playgroup includes 15 minutes of stories, rhymes and songs. Parents/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-Sundays
The What if... World - From our physical space to everyday tasks, entertainment, and communication, there are many ways the world could be different. Get creative and explore all kinds of “what if...?” questions through building, sculpting, creating, and more! 10am Mondays & Wednesdays-Saturdays, 9am Tuesdays, noon Sundays. $12. Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum, 220 E. Ann St. 734-995-5439. aahom.org
Tuesdays and Saturdays
Storytime with Linda Zimmer Story Time is for kids ages 6 and under, and features Linda Zimmer reading fun and seasonal books in our comfortable children’s section. 6pm Tuesdays, 11am Saturdays. Bookbound Bookstore, 1729 Plymouth Rd. 734-369-4345. bookboundbookstore.com Free
ADVERTISING IN MARKETPLACE 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.
Yo-Yo Master Zeemo - Zeemo has “The World on a String” as he performs over 200 different yo-yo tricks. Don’t miss this fun-filled performance that includes lots of audience participation. 1pm. $12. Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum, 220 E. Ann St. 734-995-5439. aahom.org
29 MONDAY Cutting Garden Fun - Curious about the relationship between insects and flowers? Love creating beautiful color combinations? Young children and their adults may join our volunteers in the cutting garden to make a petite bouquet to admire, share, or offer to the fairies in the Fairy & Troll Knoll. 10am. Matthaei Botanical Gardens, 1800 N. Dixboro Rd. 734-647-7600. lsa.umich.edu Free
30 TUESDAY PSAT Test Prep Workshop - Students looking to prepare for the PSAT exam are invited to attend a free seminar conducted by College Tutors of Ann Arbor. Attendees will work with real PSAT tests, examine numerous problems and improve their test knowledge. Runs through September 1. 4pm. Chelsea District Library, 221 S. Main St., Chelsea. 734-475-8732. chelseadistrictlibrary.org Free
31 WEDNESDAY Totally Tomatoes - Tis the season for tomatoes. Use tomatoes (some directly from the garden) to make a fresh tomato sauce, a roasted tomato sauce and a sauce from canned tomatoes. Then do a taste test to see which one is the best. 10am. $45. Westminster Presbyterian Church, 1500 Scio Church Rd. 734-474-1006. sproutingchefs.org
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.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Events FitMama FitMe Fellowship & Fitness to build lasting friendships and healthy lifestyles FREE for Moms with Tots (ages 0-4) Thursday from 10:15-11:30am. 3830 Packard Rd, Suite 150 Ann Arbor, MI 48108. Call Kimberly at 240-388-2537 to reserve your spots or answer questions
HELP WANTED
28 SUNDAY
Deadlines: Ad copy must be received by the 15th of
Jeff’s Live-In Home & Property Services Personal Assistant • Cook • Chauffeur • Housekeeper • General Maintenance • Minor Repair • Pet & Plant Care • Shopping • Organizing • Home & Property Security 810-6250595 Become a doula! DONA International birth and postpartum doula training and professional certification at Center for the Childbearing Year. center4cby.com. 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 SERIOUS MOMS WANTED. We need serious & motivated people for expanding health and wellness industry. High speed internet/ phone essential. Free online training. iworkforfreedom.com
Services
Expecting a baby? Childbirth preparation, breastfeeding and newborn care classes. Dancing For Birth pre/ postnatal fitness and birth preparation fusion class. Center for the Childbearing Year. center4cby.com. Child Care Needed. 2-3 days/week, pay based on experience, located in Dexter. References required. Email: jgrzadz@gmail.com
Learn listening tools to help with the emotional challenges of parenting! Six-week class for parents of young children, ages 0 - 10 years. Catherine Fischer, MA. SupportForGrowingFamilies.com Massage: Walk-in Appointments Available. Come in stressed leave refreshed. Free Parking. Make some time for yourself! RelaxStation. 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. Stargazing Peach Mountain Observatory Ann Arbor, Saturdays August 6 and 27, Directions: http://www.umich. edu/~lowbrows/calendar/ regular.html Observatory Opens at Sunset, Free admission and parking
EDUCATION ARE YOUR CHILDREN INTERESTED IN ASTRONOMY? Do they like observing the moon, planets and stars? GO TO www.YoungAstronomer.org
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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. Acorn Stairlifts. The AFFORDABLE solution to your stairs! **Limited time -$250 Off Your Stairlift Purchase!** Buy Direct & SAVE. Please call 1-800-410-7127 for FREE DVD and brochure. 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
WE’RE HIRING! Art Director/ Design Guru for local niche publications Lead a production team charged with creating the go-to sources for reliable, relevant information that motivate, inform and enrich the lives of our loyal community of readers. We’re looking for a committed graphic artist with a distinct graphic style and a impeccable command of design elements. (i.e. your taste in font usage is killer, you’re a wizard at sizing and placing art elements, you have an educated eye for design, etc.) You’re in your element leading a team and possess the ability to constructively critique others’ work. If you’re a talented art director type, hungry to set the design direction of each of our six publications, we would love to sit down and talk. Outside Sales Rep You know Ann Arbor. You’re hungry to join a growing, fast-paced and fun team. You have sales experience (and if not, you’re such a great communicator that you seem to create meaningful relationships with nearly everyone). You’re reliable and accessible. You’re open to accepting constructive feedback and finding a rhythm. For you, there’s no such thing as a tough sell. A valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
Send resume with references to mjacobs@adamsstreetpublishing.com Come on, hit send and let’s get started.
www.annarborfamily.com • August 2016 •
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