Ann Arbor Family September 2015 by Adams Street Publishing Co.

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FREE SEPTEMBER 2015

Afternoon plans in & around Ann Arbor

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A conversation with Sarah Harbaugh

10 GREAT FIELD TRIPS

MOM

Ann Arbor

Talking with a new

re O a Se so ver pt ns 10 in e to 0 si m l de b o ! er ve

Come Join our 80th Year “Celebrating Yester Years” Sept. 2 – 6, 2015 Parade on Sept. 1st (Bennett St.west to Mill Pond Park)

BACK-TO-SCHOOL CLEANING & EXAM

NOW OPEN IN YPSILANTI

Send your child off to school with a healthy smile. With over 51 million school hours missed per year because of dental problems, we think it’s pretty safe to say that Back-to-School pediatric dental visits are important. Dr. Sullivan is a board certified Diplomat of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry and licensed Pediatric Dental Specialist. She enjoys giving back to her community, volunteer work with the Special Olympics-Special Smiles program, and educational school visits.

RESERVE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY!

1820 Washtenaw Avenue Ypsilanti, Michigan 48197 734-985-9114

WashtenawPediatricDentistry.com 2

• September 2015 • www.annarborfamily.com

Stacy Sullivan, DDS, MS

Volume 20 Issue 9 September 2015

[special features]

E AT R G N E T

F I ELD T R I Ps

A conversation with Sarah Harbaugh 7 On the cover

Jim & Sarah Harbaugh with Addison, 6, Katherine, 4 and Jack, 2

The Ann Arbor area is of fun surprises! Chec full some of our great fin k out ds your afterschool plan for s!

Online

UPCOMING EDITIONS

September

[departments] community snapshots

new kids on the block

what’s briefly happening

calendar 18

compiled by Marisa Rubin

marketplace 19

[commentary] breaking dad

Dress Code Debacle

A father’s perspective on the educational fashion police

parent profile

Dr. Aaron Dworkin

Helping underprivileged children

food fight

Wolverine State Brewing Co.

Microbrewery cooks up tasty food

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

If you’re like us, you’re wondering how it’s already September?! The beginning of fall, school activities and homework battles are among us.

Homework Headquarters

Completing after school assignments are probably not your child’s favorite part of the school year. Nevertheless, it needs to get done. Alyssa Chirco has ideas for how to make it easier.

Roundup of Local Facebook Parent Groups

Check out our list of local Facebook groups dedicated to parenting, which remind you that you’re not alone when it comes to parenting woes.

[Always online] The August Back to School Guide has great tips for parents as you transition back into the school year. We cover topics from making friends and cyberbullying to healthy lunch ideas and the importance of sticking to a routine.

FIND LIKE AND FOL LOW US

Back to School Guide

Special NEEDS G

(6*%& Blogs by local moms, for local moms, are at your fingertips. Relatable and hilarious reads online.

Join us and our 600+ followers for laughs, updates & parenting discussions.

annarborfamily.com

RESERVE SPACE NOW!! Call 419.244.9859 or email sales@adamsstreetpublishing.com

www.annarborfamily.com • September 2015 •

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Adams Street Publishing Co. What was your favorite after school activity?

Publisher/Editor in Chief

KIDS HOROSCOPE

September 23 October 22 By Sue Lovett

September 19th 10am to 11pm

50% of the jump time proceeds will go directly to the Brighton Rotary to support their great work in Livingston County and beyond!

8151 Movie Drive Brighton, MI Grand River Exit off I-96

www.skyzone.com/brighton facebook.com/skyzonebrighton

60 Minute Jump. SkySocks ($2) required to jump. Walk-in only. One Coupon per person. Valid Tuesday through Friday

It has been said that Libra is physically the most beautiful sign of the zodiac. This applies to the boys (although we should say â&#x20AC;&#x153;handsomeâ&#x20AC;? for them). They often have dimples and always have great smiles. They can be a bit shy until they get to know you. The symbol is the scales and they seek balance in relationships and friendships. In other words, â&#x20AC;&#x153;if you are good to them, they will be good to you.â&#x20AC;? They do not like to be alone. If you need to punish a Libran, please donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t send them to their room because they will invent an imaginary playmate to keep them company. They get along very well with other children and willingly share their toys. They love sweets and need to be encouraged to follow a proper diet. Of course, desserts are their favorite. They like pastel colors and soft fabrics. Keep this in mind when you decorate their rooms. They will want to be with you when you shop for their clothes. Be patient because they are SLOW to make decisions.

Collette Jacobs (cjacobs@toledoparent.com) Tennis

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

Administration

Accounting: Robin Armstrong (rarmstrong@toledoparent.com) Playing on the playground

Advertising Sales Coordinator Cassi Hadadd (sales@adamsstreetpublishing.com) snacks Sales support: Catherine Bohr (classifieds@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Soccer Sales Manager Zack Mintzias (zack@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Sports and bonding Account Managers: Victor Foshion (victor@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Music

Editorial

Assignment Editor: Nadine Hariri (nadine@adamsstreetpublishing.com) avoiding homework Calendar Editor: Marisa Rubin (mrubin@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Watching Total Request Live on MTV Contributing Writers: Sarah Derminer, Rose Carver, Jeremy Rosenberg, Lisa Carolin, Katy Clark

Art/Production Senior Designer: Leah Foley (leah@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Acrobatics and dance class Graphic Design: Imani Lateef (imani@adamsstreetpublishing.com) art and reading comic books Contributing Designer: Stephanie Austin (freelance@adamsstreetpublishing.com) riding bikes with friends Anita Tipton (freelance2@adamsstreetpublishing.com) riding bikes with friends

Advertising/General Info: For advertising

CORRECTION: Our sincere apologies to IHA for incorrectly listing addresses and phone numbers in our July Family Favorites Guide. Below are the correct listings: Pediatric Practice IHA Child Health-Ann Arbor 3100 E. Eisenhower Pkwy., Suite 100 Ann Arbor, MI 48108 734.971.9344

Midwife Cheryl Bachman, CNM IHA Nurse Midwives 4200 Whitehall Dr., Suite 350 Ann Arbor, MI 48108 734.572.9600

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 writerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s full name and phone number.

Family Doctor Dr. C. Emily Heung IHA Chelsea Pediatrics 1513 S. Main St., Chelsea, MI 48118 734.475.9175

Audited by

Member

OB/GYN Dr. Mangaladevi Menon IHA Ann Arbor OB/GYN 4200 Whitehall Dr., Suite 330 734434.0477

â&#x20AC;˘ September 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ www.annarborfamily.com

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

by Rose Carver

Ask the Expert We talked to Linda Goodman of Nicola’s Books on how to keep kids interested in reading and what some of her favorite reads are right now.

A Place For Fitness, A Place For Fun by Sarah Derminer

Coming soon to Brighton is the newest sensation for fun and fitness. Sky Zone is the world’s first indoor trampoline park. They give an awesome workout while providing a fun atmosphere. Sky Zone is healthy because you are burning calories with every jump. You experience the freedom of jumping while helping get your body in better shape. It also gives that great feeling of accomplishment you get from an hour of wall to wall fun. Burn calories by jumping, flipping, and landing in a pit of soft foam cubes! Aside from all the fun, the health benefits from a day at Sky Zone is well worth the trip. Trampoline bouncing is helps with blood circulation, heart health, flexibility, balance and coordination, and muscle building. Bouncing has even been shown to promote good mental health and aiding those with autism. As a healthier option for group events that usually would include playing arcade games and smashing on pizza, Sky Zone offers a place to host birthday parties or other celebrations where kids can put their energy to good use. Additionally, they offer various activities and programs for children of all ages to participate in, such as open bouncing, dodgeball (on trampolines of course), toddler time and camps. For those who are a little older, but still a kid at heart, other activities like Sky Aerobics and Sky Jam (sports with a trampoline twist) are also available. 8151 Movie Dr., Brighton. www.skyzone.com

Store Lexi’s Toy Box Closed

The specialty toy store opened in 2007, offering dolls, games, and other whimsical merchandise from around the world. Owner Crystal Metzger has decided to call it quits and shift into retirement. Lexi’s was named after Metzger’s daughter, and now that she’s all grown, it makes sense for her mother to move on. -RC 328 Ashley St.

AA Kiwanis Expanded Thrift Store

The Kiwanis Thrift Store now has a new location in West Ann Arbor. The store will emphasize indoor and outdoor furniture, but also includes books, music, videos, and rare Kiwanis finds. -RC 102 Steebler Rd. 734-665-0450. kiwanissale.com

See something opening or closing... Let us know currenteditor@adamsstreetpublishing.com

What are some ways to get kids to pick up books instead of electronics? When you have a love for reading it can be difficult to understand that some people never pick up a book for the sheer pleasure of reading. Today, kids are offered so many other choices that sitting down with a book feels like punishment. I do feel there are ways to encourage reluctant readers. One is to take kids to a bookstore or library, and let them browse through the books themselves. Being able to pick up whatever title catches their attention, leaf through it and read a paragraph here or there is much more satisfying than browsing titles on the internet. Of course parents should be aware of what their child is reading but as long as it’s appropriate for their age, let them choose what interests them If they want to read Erin Hunter’s Warrior series don’t make them choose Huckleberry Finn. As they get older, and if they have learned to love to read, they will choose it on their own one day. Try setting a small amount of time aside every day for reading, even if for only 20 minutes. If everyone, and that includes parents, turned off their devices and read, kids might find that books are pretty cool and read more. Children model their parents behavior- be a good example! What are your favorite books right now for tweens? The Keepers by Ted Sanders is a smartly written story filled with fantasy and magic. by David Fulk is a funny story of a quiet young boy who brings home an unusual shaped rock only to have it hatch and suddenly he has a baby T-Rex on his hands. Under the Egg by Laura Marx Fitzgerald combines mystery with art and history when a young girl thinks she has discovered a priceless masterpiece under another painting. Dan Smith shows off another side of World War II in My Brother’s Secret. All are great novels for kids and they all feature strong and clever boys and girls. At what age should parents start reading to their children? I have parents who tell me they begin reading to their babies at birth. Not only is it a wonderful bonding experience for parent and child, young children can absorb so much from a book. One picture book can offer so much; animals, colors, objects and shapes. When I went to kindergarten many, many years ago that’s when I began to learn to read. Now children are already reading when they begin kindergarten and that makes for strong, confident kids. Nicola’s Books, 2513 Jackson Ave. 734-662-0600. www.nicolasbooks.com

www.annarborfamily.com • September 2015 •

Compiled by Rose Carver

Indigo Forest Natural Health Club Natural remedies are a controversial conversation topic; some equating belief in natural remedies to anti-vacciners or anti-modern medicine. However, there is a growing acceptance and appreciation for the ancient wisdom in natural remedies that went widely unrecognized in recent history. A class offered by Indigo Forest introduces curious participants to the different types of herbs and oils involved in holistic remedies. Covering their uses, tastes, and effects, which are arguably more pleasant than chugging cold medicine when you have the sniffles. The best part about these classes is that the “shamanic” professionals will come to you. Gather eight of your open-minded and skeptical friends, and prepare them to be blown away by the healing power of nature. Some of the topics covered by the series include “Staying Healthy in the Cold & Flu Season,” “Introduction to Essential Oils,” “Fabulous Healing Tea Infusions,” “Where do I Start: Ten Steps to a Healthier Family.” You and your group will have the opportunity to sniff, dab, and taste samples and related products, all available for your purchase. If you like what you learn, or if a house party isn’t something you’d enjoy, the Indigo Forest’s weekly Natural Health Club is open to everyone, every Tuesday from 10:30-11:30am. theindigoforest.com

Finding Wholesale Happiness in a Retail World When you’re looking for a way to save money, one often thinks of how to make more. When in fact, it may be more useful to trade in a luxurious lifestyle for a more practical one. Jeff Yeager is NBC Today Show’s “Ultimate Cheapskate,” and he has fashioned an ingenious method to valuing your money and time, in his book “The Ultimate Cheapskate’s Road Map to True Riches: A Practical (and Fun) Guide to Enjoying Life More by Spending Less.” After spending 24 years as a CEO and senior executive managing director of national non-profit organizations in Washington D.C, before launching his career as a freelance writer and helping the world save money. To Yeager, it’s not about spending less money, but learning new ways to find happiness and to accept yourself the way you are without spending money on things you think will bring you happiness. Happiness lies within the content of your heart, not your bank account. Learn the tricks of the trade in this lesson from everyone’s favorite frugal guru. Monday September 14, 7-8:30pm. AADL, 343 S. Fifth Ave. 734-327-4555. aadl.org Free

• September 2015 • www.annarborfamily.com

Talking with a new

Ann Arbor

MOM

A conversation with Sarah Harbaugh Photos courtesy of Sarah Harbaugh.

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When new families move to Washtenaw County, one of the first things that they pick up is Ann Arbor Family Press, a must-read resource for any household with kids. We sat down with the mom of one of our area’s newest families–Sarah Harbaugh, the wife of Jim, the University of Michigan’s head football coach–at Paesano’s on Washtenaw. She shared with us her insights on the move here along with her hopes for the future and her excitement on being new to the community. Although her husband has been in the area since the beginning of the year, the rest of the family, Sarah and their three children–Addison, almost 7, Katherine, 4, and Jack, almost 3, arrived at the end of the school year.

On settling in . . .

I am with the kids all day and the days are so much different with the time change. They are going to bed at 10:30 p.m. basically, when they are used to going to bed at 7:30 or 8. So when I finally get them down at 10:30 or 11, then I am just exhausted. The time change is tough. I had an early preschool event today, and the kids went to bed about midnight last night because they are still on California time. The 4-year-old, who I was taking to the school, I literally had to peel her

out of bed. I was telling the teacher, “She is really good, she just needs some sleep and she will do well in class, I promise.” Kids have a tough time adjusting to the time change.

Preparing for winter in Ann Arbor. . .

People told me, knowing we were coming from California, that the winters are bad. I said, “I have been there.” I grew up in Kansas City. It may be worse there, just a cold wind blowing all the time, but here we do get covered with snow. I came here to visit before Jim took the job and then I came back again in February and it was always bitter cold. The second time I bought a face mask. We walked a block to a coffee shop and our eyes were watering. We weren’t really bundled up. It is going to be a change, but it is going to be great. My kids are so excited–snow boots and snow suits!

On the wholesome environment of their neighborhood . . .

When the kids first came out in June, it was so wholesome. At nighttime we would go for a walk and we would walk down and look at Jack’s school. The kids

would ride their bikes outside and those were perfect summer nights. We saw the lightning bugs–we didn’t have them in California–I remember them from when I was a kid. So far, I wish I had more of a chance to discover things. I know that Ann Arbor is full of amazing restaurants, but for now, I pretty much know my way around Washtenaw Avenue, period. I got lost when I first went to the (UM football) facility, but now I drive to Jim’s office and I can make my way to Main Street. A 30-minute drive was what is took from where we lived in California into the city of San Francisco. We went and looked in Chelsea in June and Jim took us to some areas where the houses were so amazing– the most darling houses you have ever seen–just all of these really great homes, true Americana.

On eating out . . .

So far, we like the little bistro, Zola, in the Arbor Hills Shopping Center, that was really good, and the Chop House (on Main Street), which we have actually gone to several times. When we were here trying to find a house, that is where we went because that was what we knew. I am not good on names yet, but there are a lot of

places I want to to go. I love to eat. We’ve got Blimpy’s, the Maize and Blue Deli and Zingerman’s on our radar to try.

On the season . . .

I get really stressed, I mean really stressed. When Jim got the job it felt nauseous and I still feel unsettled about the pressure he is under. He is so calm about things that it helps me, but I am still worried about him because there is a lot of expectation here. The thing about Jim is, he is confident and he is good at what he does, and I realize that, but you just don’t know. Things just don’t always go as planned.

On being together . . .

I am really excited about raising my kids here and they are really excited about it. Especially now, because we are going to see him every day. He will be able to drive home in a few minutes. Before he could never do that. For a good five months– he works seven days a week during the season–they (the kids) wouldn’t really see him. It would really wear on the kids and they did not know how to express it. I think as a family unit, it is going to be so good. The kids are so much happier when he is around. And I can take the kids to

www.annarborfamily.com • September 2015 •

continued on pg. 8 7

continued from pg. 7

About the coach. . .

the office. They love it, running around on the field . . . They are already way more involved with his life, and that is going to be really good.

He is really a great coach and he may come off a little aggressive. He gets fired up–with calls or with the refs, I mean really fired up. A lot of times people who have never met him, who knew me, when they got comfortable enough with me, would ask me, “Does he go off like that at home?” (Laughs) I am more like he is on the sidelines at home. He is so nice and he is super complimentary with the kids–he has never been phony either. That is what I always really respected about him–he always is exactly who he is. And there is no reason to try to change, say his pants (referring to her famous Dockers “dad pants”s commercial). That is just funny because it became a big story. He has a nice figure and so he could lose the pleats and look great. He went to the flat fronts, but now he is back to the pleats sometimes. . .

Jack was so happy last night, to be able to wrestle with Jim. They were so happy rolling around. It had been a while, since Jim was in two-a-days, so they were reuniting and just being boys because Jack’s around us girls all day.

On being new to Ann Arbor . . .

Everyone’s been great. We went out to dinner a few times before he got hot and heavy into the season, but when it is just me no one knows who I am. I have not met too many people, but for him, I think he feels really good about being here. I have gone under the radar and it has been good. I can go to the same place ten times with the kids and they treat me the same way and then he comes with me and things are different. I try not to ever let out who I am. It will happen eventually…

On being the coach’s wife . . .

Technology and the kids. . . The Harbaugh children, Addison, Jack, and Katherine.

Now it’s the honeymoon because everyone is excited, and we have yet to play a game. So I really need to enjoy it more than I do. I cannot go online. I just can’t because, if I see something negative (about Jim), I just know him as who he is, as a great person and a great dad, and then you see someone say whatever they might say and I just want to punch that person. I just can’t do that anymore. I will lose sleep. The funny part is, when they see him, they will be nice to him. They would probably enjoy him if they sat down to talk to him. People are surprised–he is a passionate person. Not everyone is going to like him, or you, or anyone. So unfortunately, it is out there and so I just try to avoid that as much as possible, but I also do want to be involved. I shut myself out a little bit too much lately. I want him to know that I am supportive. Most people say that he got fired from the Niners, but in our mind, it was the Michigan job that he left for. It wasn’t like it was horrible when he left the Niners, but some of the (other coaches) wives have not had it so good. Their families are playing in their yard and people are putting things in their mailbox, One (note) said that the coach should go and die, and their kids are there. It’s scary. People are so passionate about their sports that they forget that you are human and that you have families and people that the coach is their number-one person. So if I hear anything like that (extremely negative comments), that’s what concerns me. But in the same sense I’ve got to be thankful for the blessings we have. It has worked out well for us in coaching so far and hopefully it always will. But it has happened to people. It makes me apprehensive. 8

Jim Harbaugh with daughter, Addison. When we were in the NFL, some of the players didn’t do well (with negative comments). The coaches are more resilient. It might hurt, but they know the type of people they are dealing with. But when you are a wife, you take it so much more seriously and, of course, you really want to protect your kids from hearing that. My 6year-old, she just asked, “Why does anyone not like Daddy?” She doesn’t understand. Why did that person say that on a review show or on the radio? And you just have to explain it away, but it is just so publicly out there. The kids hear at school, “Oh, his daddy got fired,” and they don’t know what that means. But then it is on social media and they hear their parents talking. My hus-

band is better at explaining it. Jim had a real good explanation. He said, “People move on from their jobs and they go do other things and everyone ends up happier.” I feel very comfortable here and I want to be involved in many aspects, the community and the schools and the University. So instead of being scared of what people are going to say, just be open and realize that so far, everyone has been amazing and everyone seems to love us. Things will change when games start being played. People have their minds made up, so I just have to stop taking it so personally in the sense that anyone can write anything on social media.

• September 2015 • www.annarborfamily.com

I am behind the times. It makes me nervous. I am always worried about it. I don’t know what is going on. My phone is never updated and it is always screwing up. I wish I was more savvy with it. Addison is good at it. She likes to watch Netflix and I probably need to cut that down. But as far as apps, Jack is obsessed with watching YouTube videos of trucks moving, just trucks moving, that will keep him busy, but other than that, not too much technology. I just found an Xbox while unpacking (I think EA Sports gave it to Jim) and it made me consider, do I want them to start playing with those games? I went to college with guys who were obsessed with video games. I try to keep up with email and texts on my phone, but I try not to do it in front of my kids so they don’t think that it’s normal. (Technology) is great in so many ways because we just have so much access, but then, on the flip side, it scares me. We talked over dinner which lasted several hours. At about 10 o’clock, just as the kitchen was closing, Sarah’s phone rang. It was Jim, just finishing up with work for the day. He asked her to place an order “to go” for him, and Mike Roddy, the owner of Paesano’s, was gracious in reopening the kitchen to accommodate the request. While we waited for the to-go” boxes to be packed up, Coach Harbaugh walked in and joined us. They served him his meal at the table, and we kept him company. The waitress came to get his drink order and he responded, “Do you have milk?” She told him that she thought they had skim milk, which was met with a grimace. Maybe they would have 2 percent milk, she offered. Jim’s response, “the more percent the better.” She brought him a full tumbler. “We have whole milk,” she announced. And with his dinner, he drank every drop.

Providing centerbased ABA therapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy to children aged 18 months to 10 years old.

Intensive, communication based ABA programs created and supervised by dually-certiﬁed behavioral analyst/speech-language pathologists

Morning, afternoon and evening sessions available.

(734) 769-0505 www.a2spectrumtherapy.com 1955 Pauline Blvd | Suites 100C & 400 | Ann Arbor, MI 48103

A Charity Event of Undead Proportions.. . The Ann Arbor Animal Hospital and Stiggy’s Dogs presents A Zombie Charity Event at Coleman Farm Corn Maze

Sunday 9-20 , Noon-4pm www.annarboranimalhospital.com

2150 W Liberty St, Ann Arbor, MI | (734) 662-4474 | OPEN 24 HOURS

www.annarborfamily.com • September 2015 •

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Ursa Academy Jiu Jitsu

The school bell rings and students are quick to park

in front of their TV, iPad or video game, but not if we can help it! Ann Arbor Family is giving you ideas to keep their minds and bodies moving, growing and

learning. You’ll find an activity perfect for you family on our local list of after school programs!

3981 Varsity Dr. 734-369-8509 bjjannarbor.com

Ursa Academy has many benefits to offer students. Unshakable self-confidence, weight loss, physical fitness, self defense, and focus are just a few of the things training in jujitsu can bring to your life. It is a place to boost self esteem and eliminate personal insecurities. These skills transfer to everyday life by exercising them at school and home. Workout as a family, or in classes with other children, whichever is the best fit for your needs.

Game Start School The Pittsfield Township Parks & Recreation 701 W. Ellsworth 734-822-2120 www.recreation.pittsfield-mi.gov

The Pittsfield Township Parks & Recreation After-School programs at Carpenter Elementary are for all area students from grades K-3. They offer cheerleading, soccer and basketball. These classes are designed to give students a fun, organized activity to keep them active after school. Programs focus on teaching the fundamentals of the specific sports through drills and games.

Bricks 4 Kidz

CAN Ann ArborCommunity Action Network P.O. Box 130076 734-994-2985. canannarbor.org

The goal of CAN is to prepare youth to become more successful and self sufficient adults. They do this with programs like after school tutoring, parent-teacher mediation, and various enrichment programs that support social growth and skills. Outside of the school year, students can look forward to summer camps and youth employment training programs.

3631 Meadow Grove Trail. 734-868-5964. www.bricks4kidz.com

Peachy Fitness

Bricks 4 Kidz is a program that provides a more enriching atmosphere where kids can develop using creativity, while having fun. For those who have less interest in sports, students can use Lego bricks to build specially designed project kits and theme-based models as a way to expand their learning. Bricks 4 Kidz offers a wide range of activities from after school programs to birthday parties.

The studio promotes fun and fitness that can be enjoyed with other kids, as well as the entire family. Programs for students include yoga, zumba, cardio, basketball, and reading and math club. After school the kids yoga and zumba club comes to various schools to provide noncompetitive methods to build self esteem and reduce stress while exercising. Peachy Fitness also offers a space for birthday parties, family workout sessions, and camps.

2385 S. Huron Pkwy. 734-681-0477. www.peachyfitness.com

Plymouth Road Plaza 2765 Plymouth Rd. 734-926-9213 gamestartschool.org

Using game play they inspire interest in art, math, science, and programming. By creating an environment where cutting edge technologies are accessible to children they educate by giving learners the tools to explore their interests in a safe environment. They use students’ passion for video games, such as Minecraft, to make learning skills relevant. To them, video games inspire discovery and innovation while encouraging self expression and collaboration.

• September 2015 • www.annarborfamily.com

Brain Monkeys

3765 Plaza Dr. 734-355-6872 www.brainmonkeys.com Brain Monkeys is designed to develop responsible, self reliant, college-bound students. Clear expectations and high standards, along with critical thinking and problem solving skills are a focus. Students become writers, scientists, explorers and artists as they consider questions that stretch thinking and apply individual learning styles. The programs are unique because they teach to each individual student and their own learning style and experience level. Brain Monkeys provides an academically stimulating environment where curious children can learn in an engaging atmosphere. This is an active environment, and students grasp concepts quickly and advance their skills in adventurous ways.

Young Rembrandts

Contact Kathy Baker at kathy.baker@youngrembrandts.com, 708-203-3468. Young Rembrandts is a program that teaches the drawing skills children need while developing various learning skills that give children an academic advantage in the classroom. Students learn and use technical drawing skills, discover that involved objects can be broken down into familiar shapes, then use problem solving skills, innovation, and imagination to combine them into awesome masterpieces. These activities improve fine motor skills, patience, and ability to stay on task. This is where kids come to draw like a pro!

Just Us Club Kids 1735 S. Wagner Rd. www.justusclub.org

School of Rock Ann Arbor

6101 Jackson Rd. 734-686-3333 www.locations.schoolofrock.com/annarbor This school makes children into rock stars. The School of Rock offers weekly private music lessons on guitar, bass, keyboard, drums, and/ or vocals. There are weekly group rehearsals that reinforce music fundamentals while in a team environment, while providing a grasp of music theory basics and technique. This allows the student to understand what it means to play solo, as well as with a group. These programs offer real knowledge that is gained through real fun. Time to rock out!

This program is open to any student with a disability who are able to function in a group setting. Students take part in fine-motor development and weekly theme-centered projects. Activities include games, baking, movies, art projects, outdoor fun, and music therapy. Accommodations are made for each students’ individual needs and conditions. Kids learn, participate, and have fun in a welcoming atmosphere while developing themselves emotionally, intellectually, and physically.

That’s why we hand pick every item that goes on our shelf. We feature clothing and shoes for children up to age 6, and everything you might need to raise your little bundle of joy from cribs to car seats. Elephant Ears is your one stop shop!

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www.annarborfamily.com • September 2015 •

T A E R G T EN

D L E I F s P I TR

The Ann Arbor are fun surprises! Ch a is full of eck of our great find out some s for y afterschool plan our s! by Lisa Carolin

Gaffield Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Garden, U-M Matthaei Botanical Gardens 1800 North Dixboro lsa.umich.edu/mbg/see/gaffield.asp.

The Gaffield Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Garden is part of the University of Michigan Matthaei Botanical Gardens. It offers a natural setting specifically designed from a kidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s point of view and invites discovery for all the senses. The gardens offer educational programs that promote a childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s understanding of plants. Kids can go through mazes, climb objects, and gets their hands dirty while digging holes. The garden has a butterfly and hummingbird garden as well as a buildersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; garden and a hiking trail.

826 Michigan

115 East Liberty St., 734-761-3463, www.826michigan.org 826michigan is a nonprofit organization which helps students ages 6-18 with their writing skills. It offers field-trip options that include storytelling and bookmaking as well as writing labs. 826michigan also has drop-in writing programs where participants experiment with writing prompts, discuss creative writing, get feedback on poems, and get the chance to publish, record, and perform their work. Workshops are also offered to help strengthen writing skills and are taught by volunteer writers, educators and publishing professionals from the community.

Dexter Cider Mill

3685 Central Street, Dexter, 734-426-8531 dextercidermill.com The Dexter Cider Mill is the oldest, continuously operating Cider Mill in the state, and it still makes cider like it was done 120 years ago, using an oak rack press. Three to five varieties of locally grown apples are used in every pressing so that each press is unique. In addition to cider, the mill sells fresh apples, caramel apples, doughnuts and apple nut bread from its bakery. On weekends, apple pies, apple strudel, and hand rolled gingersnaps are also available along with other apple related products.

Inspiring a Lifelong Love of Learning "

" !

At Go Like The Wind, we believe in the immense potential of each child. That's why our teachers create individualized learning plans using proven Montessori materials that nurture a lifelong love of learning.

Infants/Toddlers

Preprimary

Elementary Middle School Visit www.golikethewind.com or call (734)747-7422 for more information

â&#x20AC;˘ September 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ www.annarborfamily.com

$ "

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Leslie Science Center

1831 Traver, 734-997-1553, www.lesliesnc.org The Leslie Science Center educates children about their natural environment and offers programs for all ages.Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a destination for field trips and birthday parties. The grounds include nonreleasable birds of prey as well as raptor enclosures and trails. Every season offers different opportunities to explore animals and plants of the forest, There are special programs just for toddlers with walks along trails as well as nature tales, and story time accompanied by hands-on, nature-themed activities. Programs are designed for specific ages and include teaching about food, water, and shelter and related crafts and experiments.

Michigan Firehouse Museum

110 West Cross Street, Ypsilanti 734-547-0663, www. michiganfirehousemuseum.org/ index.html The Michigan Firehouse Museum offers a history of firefighting with informative exhibits and teaches fire safety and prevention. It includes displays of both an 1898 firehouse and a modern one. One of the highlights is a 1917 American LaFrance Type 31 tractor with an aerial ladder. There are also fire engine steamers, and a variety of antique fire trucks and early fire rigs as well as historic artifacts like tools, helmets, clothing and fire truck bells. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s appealing to all ages and offers group tours.

Planet Rock

82 Aprill Dr., 734-827-2680, www.planet-rock.com Planet Rock offers passes and hosts birthday parties and also offers lessons, and memberships. The staff plans and facilitates parties for all ages and gives kids access to walls in the gym. There are programs for kids as young as three with the focus on developing agility, balance and coordination. There are obstacle courses, a climbing gym (for kids five and older) and a training center. Kids learn the importance of fitness, to build strength, and to work as a team. First time climbers will learn safety skills, using knots, and belaying (how to hold the ropes)- for ages 14 and older.

Spring Valley Trout Farm 12190 Island Lake Rd., Dexter, 734-425-4772, Dextrout@aol.com.

The Spring Valley Trout Farm has a childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s trout pond reserved for children 10 and under, where a catch on every outing is guaranteed. The fish are in spring-fed, pollution-free ponds and are stocked weekly with fish grown on the farm-raised Channel Catfish ponds or Rainbow Trout pond. The site has a total of nine spring fed ponds ranging from a 1/2 acre to an acre. There are two covered picnic pavilions, a childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s play area and an authentic American log cabin used as a fishing lodge. No fishing license is required.

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www.annarborfamily.com â&#x20AC;˘ September 2015 â&#x20AC;˘

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Wiard’s Orchards

TreeHouse

5565 Merritt Rd., Ypsilanti 734-390-9211 www.wiards.com

1101 South Main St., Chelsea, 734-475-1555 www.thechelseatreehouse.com The TreeHouse is an indoor playground with 9,000 square feet of play area that includes a climbing and playing structure, five sliding boards, swinging bridges, and an enclosed area for babies and toddlers. There are also basketball hoops and a huge tree house. The facility will host birthday parties and has a cafe that sells freshly made sandwiches, salads, soups and healthy snacks.

Wiard’s Apple Orchard offers u-pick apples and a u-pick pumpkin patch. There is also a corn maze, hayrides, a country store and more. The property covers nearly 100 acres, and has haunted attractions for Halloween. Wiard’s has been around for 178 years and provided apples and cider vinegar for Union Troops in the Civil War. Wiard’s also offers the Learning Barn Country Classroom for school field trips.

Museum of Natural History 1109 Geddes Avenue 734-764-0478 www.lsa.umich.edu/ummnh

The University of Michigan Museum of Natural History has exhibits and programs for all ages and facilitates active participation and promotes the understanding of science. Permanent exhibits include those on dinosaurs and other prehistoric life, anthropology, geology, Michigan wildlife, and a Planetarium. There are preschool programs, school field trip programs, dinosaur and space birthday parties, and Planetarium shows. The museum also offers the Family Reading and Science Program, which includes workshops around SouthEast Michigan aimed at children ages 6-11 and culminates with a Discovery Day at the museum in March.

• September 2015 • www.annarborfamily.com

Breaking Dad

Dress Code Debacle A father’s perspective on the educational fashion police Jeremy Rosenberg

September means the beginning of a new school year, and every year teachers and administrators have tasks that reach far beyond educating children. Last year, at Forsythe Middle School in Ann Arbor, one of those tasks included fashion police and clothing monitor. Some Forsythe students protested the fact that girls felt like they were being singled out by an arbitrary and unfair standard, the so-called “fingertip rule” for skirts and shorts. The problem, as I see it, isn’t in the lessons that can be taught with the dress code, it is the lessons that are missed in the way the code is enforced. For starters, the idea that a dress code is needed to stop the boys from being distracted is ridiculous. Middle school age boys are going to be distracted by girls, whether it was showing a scandalous amount of ankle back in 1875, or spaghetti straps today. Boys that age will also be distracted by video games, sports, school,

music, movies, friends, books, homework, parents, chores, and whatever other topics momentarily invade their brain. And that’s only in a thirty second span. This is a school we are talking about. A dress code is needed to teach children how to dress appropriately for certain situations. In a previous life, I was in charge of a movie theater. I have interviewed hundreds of teenagers looking for work. If a girl showed up for an interview dressed like she was about to go to the club, or a boy showed up in ratty jeans, or worse, sweatpants, neither would be hired by me. Girls’ clothing options are more diverse than boys, this is one reason why girls are often singled out. If exchange student Hamish McDonald from Scotland wore a kilt that was too short, he would probably be told to change his attire as well. Whether it is Hamish or Hannah, neither should be conspicuously pulled from class and told to call their parents so they can

change immediately. That should only be for extreme cases, like promoting methamphetamine, or wearing a Nickelback shirt. If young people want to protest something truly meaningful, they can look at the labels on their own clothes. We pay a hefty price for cheap clothing. This “protest” is a textbook case of first world problems. Try to remember that a Bangladeshi girl has to work fourteen hours a day, in dangerous

conditions, for $0.83 an hour. For her toil, we get to have a debate over whether those shorts come in just under the fingertip. Jeremy Rosenberg gave up the corporate rat race years ago to become a freelance writer and graduate student, as well as a stay-at-home Dad to his two children, Jack, 11, and Eva, 6. He also enjoys playing the guitar, letting his cats fall asleep on his lap, and trying to be a decent human being.

www.annarborfamily.com • September 2015 •

UPCOMING EDITIONS

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A Musical Enigma

Dr. Aaron Dworkin and the Sphinx Organization help underprivileged children by Sarah Derminer

Dr. Aaron Dworkin, a multimedia performer, author, entrepreneur, and educator currently serves as dean of the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre, and Dance. As a former member of the Obama National Arts Policy Committee, and the first appointment by President Obama to the National Council on the Arts, Dr. Dworkin receives continual and extensive recognition for leadership and service to his community. As a founder of the Sphinx Organization, Dr. Dworkin has helped develop a variety of programs to help underprivileged students gain access to, and passion for, the performing arts and music. The Sphinx Organization’s vision statement is “we transform lives through the power of diversity in the arts.” Following Dr. Dworkin’s inspiration and example, the foundation offers programs to encourage and aid students of color that have few or no resources available to them in their pursuit of music. Overture, for example, is a program that provides free violins to elementary school classes in underserved areas. How can participating in the arts make a positive impact on a child’s future? I believe it can be transformative, regardless of what path their follow professionally. The arts instill discipline, a sense of self-awareness, confidence, all of which improve our quality of life. Exposure to and participation in the arts is an essential, core aspect of a young person’s development. It should not be an ancillary, optional activity but rather an essential component of our childrens’ lives. “We transform lives through the power of diversity in the arts” is the motto of the Sphinx Foundation. Why do you feel diversity is important to incorporate in the arts? We are fortunate to live in an incredibly diverse society, representing people of all walks of life, cultures, backgrounds, persuasions. The arts are a mirror of a society: we think of the arts as having a reciprocal relationship with the community, a renewed, rediscovered sense of relevance and belonging. At Sphinx, it is said that in order for the arts to ultimately thrive, they must be enriched by the voices of those they aim to serve. I believe that the work we do in developing the next generation of artist-citizens must be informed and empowered by that concept. What message do you want to send to today’s youth? Don’t be afraid to dream, disrupt, to challenge the status quo: don’t be afraid of failing. In any instance, strive to go above

• September 2015 • www.annarborfamily.com

and beyond: as an incredible educator and civil rights leader, Dr. Arthur Johnson shared with me, it is important to do more than what is required. What things have you done to inspire young people to participate in the arts? Over the past two decades, I have worked to foster participation in the arts through educational programming in Detroit and Flint, as well as nationally and globally. The power of learning through an inspiring example set by an older peer is endless: in most situations, people remember a poignant experience of being introduced to the arts, hearing music played by someone relatable. What motivates you everyday? Everyday, I am motivated by our young people, the next generation of those who will move our society forward. The arts are an incredible instrument through which to enact and propel change, a source of empowerment, and an avenue for unlocking potential in so many. In my new role as the Dean at my beloved alma mater, I feel privileged to work with young people, be surrounded by so many creative minds and soak up the enthusiasm and the energy they emit. I see my role as that of a catalyst/supporter, someone who can, hopefully, help them find their unique path and help them make the arts relevant to our community at large. For more information, visit sphinxmusic.org.

What’s Brewing

Microbrewery cooks up tasty food by Katy M. Clark

Wolverine State Brewing Co.

2019 W. Stadium Ann Arbor, MI 48103 Phone: (734) 369-2990 Hours: Mon-Thurs 4pm – midnight; Fri-Sat noon-1am; Sun noon – 10pm www.wolverinebeer.com

Tucked behind Great Lakes Cycling & Fitness, near Big George’s on Stadium, sits Wolverine State Brewing Company. Michigan’s sole all-lager microbrewery, WSBC produces an impressive number of lagers. There are flagship lagers, such as Wolverine Premium, plus India Pale, seasonal, “ferocious”, and rotating lagers. What about the food, though? And can you take your kids? Family all by their lonesome I noticed that ours was the only family dining when we walked into WSBC on a Saturday afternoon. Grab a menu by the door, though, and you’ll see that a kids’ menu is available. Plus, the interior and outdoor patio ooze a casual vibe. We sat inside at one of the wooden tables, near the prominent L-shaped bar with a peek of the brewing equipment in another room. Then I noticed something else. My husband’s eyes had a glint. As he scanned the enormous list of lagers above the bar, he looked happier than I’d seen him while dining out with kids in a long time. This was his kind of place. There are four offerings on the kids’ menu: a peanut butter, banana, and honey sandwich, grilled cheese, pulled

pork sliders, and a cheese quesadilla. All come with a juice box and kettle chips or fruit for $6. My son, 12, chose the grilled cheese. My daughter, 8, picked the cheese quesadilla.

My sandwich boasted copious amounts of turkey on crumbly multigrain ciabatta. The melted cheddar on my mountain of meat was a nice touch. The side of kettle chips was tasty and salty.

There are nine handcrafted sandwiches, “Tap Room Favorites” like the Killer Burrito, and a lone salad for adults. My husband selected a half order of nachos ($7) and added pulled pork ($3.50). I had heard good things about the pulled pork, which is cooked low and slow on green cherry and apple wood. I decided on The Cellerman sandwich with turkey, cheddar, guacamole, field greens, tomato and red onion on multigrain ciabatta ($9.50).

“I give it a 9 out of 10,” my son declared of his grilled cheese with three melted cheeses on sourdough. There was so much cheese that my son was full after eating two-thirds. My daughter managed a quarter of her likable, gigantic quesadilla, which was served with blue corn tortilla chips and a side of sour cream. In contrast to the big portions of food in the kids’ meals, the juice boxes, at just four ounces, seemed petite.

WSBC is counter service so we ordered our food and drinks at the bar. Then it was an easy wait, with TVs and music all around, until the food was brought to our table.

We left satisfied with boxes of leftovers. WSBC seems a bit of an enigma when it comes to family-friendly dining, though. On the one hand, it offers a kids’ menu and has changing tables in both men’s and women’s restrooms. On the other hand, no high chairs are available and the atmosphere is decidedly geared towards adult patrons—it is, after all, a brewpub. Still, my husband was the happiest I’d seen him in a long time while eating out with the kids and that definitely makes for a family-friendly meal.

Generous portions My husband’s half order of nachos was gigantic. “This comes with massive amounts of pulled pork,” he commented. “Delicious smoky BBQ flavor.” He dug into blue corn tortilla chips, cheese, black beans, red onions, cilantro, jalapeños, pico de gallo, guacamole, sour cream, and queso fresco. It was definitely satisfying.

The Short Course Kid-friendly: Somewhat

To avoid wait: Go early for dinner or try lunchtime on the weekends Noise level: High

Bathroom amenities: Both men’s and women’s restrooms have changing tables High chairs? No, just booster seats

Got milk? No, but they offer water and assorted pop plus kid’s meals come with a mixed berry juice box Kids’ menu? Yes

Anything healthy for kids? Fresh fruit can be substituted for chips in all kid’s meals

Food allergy concerns? When placing your order at the bar, be sure to inform them of your needs. They do their best to accommodate food allergies and avoid cross-contamination. Everything is made from scratch so they are fully aware of all ingredients and can advise on a case-by-base basis.

ANNARBORFAMILY.COM www.annarborfamily.com • September 2015 •

{ September 2015 } All calendar events are subject to change, cancellation and limited size. Calling ahead for confirmation is recommended.

Fair fun for the entire family

Wednesday, 9.2–Monday, 9.6 / Washtenaw Farm Council Grounds

Enjoy the last bit of summer outside with the whole family at the 80th annual Saline Community Fair. Preschoolers and children will be entertained with their own special events (Thursday and Saturday, respectively), while ladies and senior citizens will be recognized Friday following a euchre tournament. Parents will appreciate the rodeo and Beer Barn, open nightly on the weekend. Enjoy live shows, including Saline’s Got Talent and Lookin’ Back, the preeminent Bob Seger cover band, who close out Saturday night. Best of all, everyone can enjoy the rides and games through Monday, when admission is free of charge. Wednesday, September 2–Monday, September 6. $7. Washtenaw Farm Council Grounds, 5055 Ann Arbor-Saline Rd. salinefair.org —ZM

In a world of her own Saturday, 9.26 / Theatre Nova

Being a 12-year-old is difficult— even in the world of fairy tale and fantasy. Enter the world of triplets, Albienne, Beatrix, and Carmen, who will share their individual, 20 year journeys of to womanhood. Through word, music and movement, this sensitive and mesmerizing performance will touch audiences of all ages. Co-presented by Spinning Dot Theatre and Theatre Nova, and written by Finegan Kruckemeyer, an Australian playwright, This Girl Laughs, This Girl Cries, This Girl Does Nothing will remind you that no matter where you are, growing up is an adventure of its own. 11am. $10/adults, $5/children. Theatre Nova in the Yellow Barn, 416 W. Huron St. 734-635-8450. theatrenova.org —AC

1 TUESDAY Forrest Gump - As part of the Kerrytown Market’s Summer Classic Film Series, enjoy a screening of this family favorite. 7pm. $10/adult, $8/children, students and seniors. Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty St. 734-668-8397. michtheater.org

Come THURSDAY Join our 80th Year 3 “Celebrating Yester Years”

The Big Mitten Fair - Enjoy activities – 6, 2015 that are Sept. sure to2engage all members of the family. As summer winds down, come Sept. 1st for musical by the BigParade Mittenon Fair at MIS (Bennett St.west to Mill Pond performances, amusement rides,Park) camping, food and more. Through September 7. 11am-11pm. Ticket prices vary. Michigan International Speedway. 12626 US-12, Brooklyn. 734-740-4444. bigmittenfair.com

5 SATURDAY Silhouette Plates - Create decorative plates using silhouettes of characters and symbols from favorite books. For grades 6+. 2-3pm. Pittsfield Branch Library: Program Room, 2359 Oak Valley Dr. 734-327-4200. aadl.org Free Celebrating Bees - Kids will have fun with this interactive program as part of the Festival of the Honey Bee. 11am. Ypsilanti District Library, 5577 Whittaker Rd., Ypsilanti. 734-482-4110. ypsilibrary.org Free Children’s Story Time - Deb, the teller of tales, welcomes all children and suggestions in her story-reading adventures. Allow your kids to discover their world by listening to the stories of those who came before them. For kids of all ages. Literari Bookstore, 124 E. Washington St. 734-585-5567. literatibookstore.com Free Kid’s Class: Fox Coin Purse - Learn how to make an adorable fox change purse as teacher, Lisa, teachs how to put a zipper in and appliqué around the mouth. Use a maker to draw in the face. For ages 9+. Registration required. 1-3pm. $36. Ann Arbor Sewing Center 5235 Jackson Rd. 734-761-3094. annarborsewing.com

6 SUNDAY

Knock knock. Who’s there? Ann Arbor Family’s Halloween Guide, your best resource for sweets, treats, and what’s happening locally.

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Labor Day Festival - The Ann Arbor Community of Traditional Music and Dance invites you to get those limbs moving at Dancing in the Street. Embody traditional celebratory dances of our ancestors, or channel David Bowie and Mick Jagger. A mish-mash of different music and dance traditions, from Swing to Tango, will be available to sample on multiple stages and dance lessons will be offered. 1-6:30pm. Main and Washington St. in downtown Ann Arbor. aactmad.org Free

8 TUESDAY Floral Living Jewelry - Designer, Susan McLeary, will teach how to customize your personal floral jewelry. For grades 6+. 7-8:30pm. Downtown Library: MultiPurpose Room, 43 S. Fifth Ave. 734-327-4200. aadl.org Free

9 WEDNESDAY Music Together Demo Class - Music Together is a research-based program for children 5 and under. Robinsongs For Kids was voted “Best Music Class 2014” in Ann Arbor Family’s “Family Favorites”. Registration required. 10am. Scio Community Church, 1293 N. Zeeb Rd. 734-662-7351. sciocommunity.org Free

• September 2015 • www.annarborfamily.com

Nature Tales: A Tree Tale - At this naturally unique story time, listen to As An Oak Tree Grows by G. Brian Karas, then take a look at some of the trees at the nature center. There will also be hands-on activities and nature-themed pursuits that include live animal visits and spending time outside. 11am. Adults and children under one year are free, $50/annual membership. Leslie Science and Nature Center 1831 Traver Rd. 734-997-1553. lesliesnc.org

12 SATURDAY Dancing Babies with Robin Robinson - Driven by music, your baby will express them self in the purest of forms: dancing. A joyful session led by Robin Robinson. For ages 5 and under. 10-10:45am. Malletts Creek Branch Library: Program Room, 3090 E. Eisenhower Pkwy. 734-327-4200. aadl.org Free Wiard’s Orchards and Country Fair - Enjoy everything fall with a variety of family entertainment from pony rides and tractor-drawn wagon rides to a corn maze, a petting farm and lots of different seasonal foods. Saturdays & Sundays through October 25. 11am. $15.50/ages 2+, free/under age 2. Wiard’s Orchards, 5565 Merritt Rd., Ypsilanti. 734-482-7744. wiards.com

13 SUNDAY Monarch Migration Festival - All are invited to watch the release of tagged monarch butterflies. Games and other activities will be available to learn about its life cycle and the LSNC’s role as a way-station for migrating monarchs. 1-3pm. $8. Leslie Science & Nature Center, 1831 Traver Rd. 734-997-1553. leslliesnc.org Dawn Farm 42nd Anniversary Jamboree - Have a great time while supporting a great cause. The Jamboree includes music and entertainment, a silent auction, farm animals and activities for children. 1-6pm. Dawn Farm, 6633 Stony Creek Rd., Ypsilanti. 734-485-8725. dawnfarm.org Free

14 MONDAY Monday Night Movies - Join the library for a weekly movie night. 6:30pm. Ypsilanti District Library, 5577 Whittaker Rd. 734-482-4110. ypsilibrary.org Free

15 TUESDAY 826Michigan Teen - This active tween writing group is a drop-in creative session led by 826michigan volunteers. 4pm. Ypsilanti District Library, 5577 Whittaker Rd., Ypsilanti. ypsilibrary.org Free

16 WEDNESDAY Vintage Base Ball Game - The Monitor Base Ball Club take on the Merries Vintage Ladies Base Ball Club in an oldfashioned game of ball. 6:30-7:30pm. Cobblestone Farm, 2781 Packard Rd. aadl.org Free TeenScape - Explore art, music and technology with a new weekly activity. 5:30-7pm. Ypsilanti District Library, 5577 Whittaker Rd., Ypsilanti. 734-482-4110. ypsilibrary.org Free

17 THURSDAY Sign Language for Infants and Toddlers - Learn how sign language can be packaged as toddlers and parents expand their ways of connecting. For ages 6 months-2 years with a parent/guardian. 11-11:45am. Mallets Creek Branch: Program Room, 3090 E. Eisenhower Pkwy. 734-327-4200. aadl.org Free

19 SATURDAY Talk Like a Pirate - Youngsters enjoy 30-minutes of pirate-themed picture books, rhymes and crafts. For ages 6 and under. 11am. Dexter District Library, 3255 Alpine St., Dexter. 734-426-4477. dexter.lib.mi.us Free

20 SUNDAY All-Ages Mario Kart Tournament This tournament will unite a group of individuals who enjoy the past-time of playing Mario Kart. Win or lose, there’s not a chance you’ll be bored playing this classic video game. For all ages. 1-4pm. Downtown Library: 4th Floor Meeting Room, 43 S. Fifth Ave. 734-327-4200. aadl.org Free Fireside Fun: A Good Old-fashioned Campfire Circle - There’s nothing quite as relaxing as sitting around a campfire, roasting marshmallows and swapping stories. Join LSNC in a circle of camp chairs around a blazing fire. 6:30-8pm. Leslie Science and Nature Center, 1831 Traver Rd. 734-997-1553. lesliesnc.org Free

marketplace Tuesday-Sunday

Michigan Firehouse Museum The museum preserves Michigan’s fire fighting history and teaches fire safety and prevention to children. 10am-4pm Tuesday-Saturday, noon-4pm Sunday, closed Monday. $5/adults, $3/ages 2-16, free/under age 2. Michigan Firehouse Museum, 110 W. Cross St., Ypsilanti. 734-547-0663. michiganfirehousemuseum.org Free

Tuesdays & Saturdays Storytime - Stories and activities for kids 7 and under. 10am Tuesdays, 11am Saturdays. Nicolas Books, 2513 Jackson Ave. 734-662-0600. nicolasbooks.com

Saturdays & Sundays:

Dinosaur Tours, Dinosaur fans will have fun during a 30-minute tour with animatronic reptiles. 2pm. Museum of Natural History, 1109 Geddes Ave. 734-764-0478. lsa.umich.edu/ummna Free

Creature Encounters: Sloth - All are invited to view the 2-toed sloth Poco on the conservancy’s stone stage, along with the other animals. 2:30pm & 4pm. $8/adults, $6/ages 2-12, free/children under 2. Creature Conservancy, 4950 Ann Arbor-Saline Rd. 734-929-9324. creatureconservancy.org

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26 SATURDAY Park It - Families will learn new ways to play outside with archery, fishing, wildlife exhibits, music and hands-on activities. 9am-2pm. Manly Bennett Park, 10559 Merrill Rd., Hamburg. 734-426-4913. hamburg.mi.us Free 36th Annual Webster Fall Festival This year’s festival will include live music, hay rides and food on the grill. Webster United Church of Christ, 5484 Wesbter Church Rd., Dexter. 734-426-5115. websterfallfestival.org Ypsi Song Fest - This annual festival celebrates the beauty and craftsmanship of talented songwriters. The day will be filled with education, family-friendly activities, entertainment and, of course, amazing songs. Visit website for a full schedule of events. 11am. Ypsilanti District Library, 5577 Whittaker Rd., Ypsilanti. ypsilibrary.org/songfest Free

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25 FRIDAY Movies in the Park - Enjoy movie night in the park while watching the 2014 family favorite film Annie starring Cameron Diaz and Jamie Foxx. There is a different movie screened every other Friday through October 2. Movie starts at dusk. Adams Park, 309 Chicago Rd., Tecumseh. 517-424-6003. downtowntecumseh.com Free

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KinderConcert! - This fun, interactive learning environment allows children the opportunity to enjoy music while encouraging learning and creativity. For ages 5 and younger. 10am. Dexter District Library, 3255 Alpine St., Dexter. dexter.lib.mi.us Free

27 SUNDAY Full Moon Hike - Join the University Low Astronomers for a lunar eclipse hike. A few times a year, the moon passes through the shadow of the earth. As light bends through earth’s atmosphere, the moon takes a coppery glow. We will demonstrate how a lunar eclipse works, then hike out to view the rising moon. (Total lunar eclipse begins at 10:15pm). 7:30-9:30pm. County Farm Park. 734-971-6337. ewashtenaw.org Free

Call Catherine 419.244.9859

to sell your stuff today

Events Peach Mountain Observatory Ann Arbor Saturdays August 8 and 15 Directions: http://www.umich. edu/~lowbrows/calendar/ regular.html Observatory Opens at Sunset, Free admission and parking The following are Open House dates for 2015: September 5 and 12 October 10 and 17 November 7 and 14 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 HVPOM Mom2Mom Sale Sat. Oct 3rd Woodland Meadows School Saline 9am-Noon $2 admission Department Store Style Strollers Welcome SEPTEMBER19 - MOM2MOM CONSIGNMENT SALE. Liberty School, 7265 N. Ann Arbor St., Saline. 9-2, $1.00 entry. More info. at: www. mom2momconsignmentsale. com

HELP WANTED

Birth Trauma and Pregnant Massage Sher, 740-743-7160 - 85/ hr + Hot Towel 42.50/hr. Same Day. AA. CCs accepted. Victorian atmosphere. INFANT MASSAGE

Medical Massage for Muscular Pain. 67.50/half hour. AA. Hot towels, stone - 42.50 each. Same Day. 740-743-7160. STRESS REDUCTION, DEEP TISSUE, CMT 15 years of experience, into. Massage special $45/ hr. AA Northside. Call Jane 734-741-0761

Promotes bonding, improved sleep, reduces tummy issues and crying. 75$/hour. Natalia, LMSW, Infant Mental Health ANNOUNCEMENTS Specialist-IV 734-223-6802 Give Hope. Become a Foster Parent. Attend a free training today to learn more! For more information: www.judsoncenter.org or 313-255-8272.

Lifecoach Q.August/ CueTheCoach LLC. Themed Parenting Workshops Superhero or My House Is A Zoo Free w/$25 supply kit purchase CUETHECOACH.net

EDUCATION ARE YOUR CHILDREN INTERESTED IN ASTRONOMY? Do they like observing the moon, planets and stars? GO TO www.YoungAstronomer.org FREE HALF-HOUR CONSULTATION for families, enriching literacy and support for school/home. Ann Arbor Educational Associates, annarboreducationalassoc@gmail.com.

HEALTH

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

FUN, FREE 4-WEEK FIT CHALLENGE! Free Fitness M & W 6:30pm off Packard Rd. in Ann Arbor. All ages & skill levels welcome. 734-707-7697. www.nutritionbychoice.com

SERIOUS MOMS WANTED. We need serious & motivated people for expanding health and wellness industry. High speed internet/ phone essential. Free online training. iworkforfreedom.com

ACTIVE BODY CHALLENGE starts Jan 2nd - 8 Week Fitness & Nutrition Program, Cash prizes in 4 categories nutritionbychoice.com or 734-707-7697

Services Massage: Walk-in Appointments Available. Come in stressed leave refreshed. Free Parking. Make some time for yourself! RelaxStation. 734-623-1951

www.annarborfamily.com • September 2015 •

GIVE BLOOD - SAVE LIVES! #ChooseYourDay to donate blood. Call 1-800-448-2543 or go to RedCrossBlood.org. Appointments preferred. Walk-ins welcome. HERO MILES To find out more about how you can help our service members, veterans and their families in their time of need, visit the Fisher House website at fisherhouse.org Medical Guardian Top-rated medical alarm and 24/7 medical alert monitoring. For a limited time, get free equipment, no activation fees, no commitment, a 2nd waterproof alert button for free and more - only $29.95 per month. 800-279-4103 DONATE YOUR CAR, TRUCK OR BOAT TO HERITAGE FOR THE BLIND. Free 3 Day Vacation, Tax Deductible, Free Towing, All Paperwork Taken Care Of. CALL 1-800-895-7416 Reduce Your Past Tax Bill by as much as 75 Percent. Stop Levies, Liens and Wage Garnishments. Call The Tax DR Now to see if you Qualify 1-800-841-2298

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 Got an older car, boat or RV? Do the humane thing. Donate it to the Humane Society. Call 1- 800-758-2204

Talking with a new

Ann Arbor

MOM

A conversation with Sarah Harbaugh Photos courtesy of Sarah Harbaugh.

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On settling in . . .

of bed. I was telling the teacher, “She is really good, she just needs some sleep and she will do well in class, I promise.” Kids have a tough time adjusting to the time change.

Preparing for winter in Ann Arbor. . .

On the wholesome environment of their neighborhood . . .

When the kids first came out in June, it was so wholesome. At nighttime we would go for a walk and we would walk down and look at Jack’s school. The kids

On eating out . . .

places I want to to go. I love to eat. We’ve got Blimpy’s, the Maize and Blue Deli and Zingerman’s on our radar to try.

On the season . . .

On being together . . .

www.annarborfamily.com • September 2015 •

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