Ann Arbor Family February 2015

FREE February 2015

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Cyberbullying and Social Media

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Realizing the risks and how to educate your children

Cabin Fever

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Do away with winter blues with these ten things to do

0 E! 5 ID

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V TS O EN EV

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- American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry

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.

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• February 2015 • www.annarborfamily.com

Stacy Sullivan, DDS, MS

Volume 20 • Issue 1 February 2015

Social Media & Cyberbullying

Education Guid e 2015

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[departments] community snapshots 5 aaf’s favorite things 5 what’s briefly happening 6 new kids on the block 7 exceptional families 8 tween the lines 8

How to take a stand

Cure the winter blues

by Laura Kretz

by Jennifer Eberbach

13

Online

FEBRUARY

Colder temperatures don’t mean you have to turn into a couch potato! Get bundled up and get active with these ideas and expert advice.

12 Sledding Safety Tips

Children love sledding and parents want to make sure they get their fix of wintery fun without getting hurt. See how with these 12 tips to keep injuries at bay.

healthy kids 9 calendar 18

No Couch Potatoes

Family-friendly suggestions to help you hold on until the spring thaw.

Banish the words “I’m bored!” once and for all.

compiled by Rose Carver

marketplace 19

[commentary] breaking dad 15

The Undeniable Princess Effect

Turning the glitz and glam into moral lessons

by Jeremy Rosenberg

parent profile 16 Enhancing Life in the Community

Neel Hajra on the Ann Arbor Community Foundation

by Heather Gilmore

food fight 17

The Best at Blimpy Burger

On the cover

14

Emmett Mason, 3, Ann Arbor

baby

bloopers Kids say and do the darndest things. See what had us laughing this month! If you make it on this page, you can win giveaways from Ann Arbor Family!

My daughter, three or four at the time, said, “Mom, is Stevie Wonder a Beatle?”

I told her no. She said, “Well he is to me.”

It wasn’t funny, but it sure was sweet to us huge Beatle fans.

Bobbi Jo Sargent, Ann Arbor

The other day I told my two year old Niko to sit down and eat his lunch or go to nap.

He replied with, “Ummm no thanks, I’m making other plans.”

Christina Mata, Ann Arbor

[Always online]

Meet the people behind the scenes providing children with the tools they need to succeed in the classroom. Head of the Class features local academic leaders and their visions and aspirations for the future of education.

Photo by Lesley Mason

[special features]

h ead of th e class

Join us and our 600+ followers FIND for laughs, updates & parenting LIKE discussions. “Like” us on AND facebook.com/annarborfamily FOL LOW annarborfamily.com US

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

My three year old constantly nudges me in the side with her elbow and calls me “smarty pants!”

Casey Bishop, Belleville

My daughter, at age three, called Chucky Cheese “Chunky Cheese” which made her brothers crack up every time.

Julie Busch Martin, Ann Arbor

march Baby blooper giveaway: TravelJohn Jr. Envision a world sans potty accidents?

The time has come. TravelJohn Jr. is a safe and hygienic solution for the moments when kids have to use the restroom and there isn’t one in sight.

New location, same great taste

by Katy M. Clark

www.annarborfamily.com • February 2015 •

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FEBRUARY GIVEAWAY The countdown for the February giveaway begins now! You have this month to enter for a chance to win this month's prize package. Dads will be heroes and babies will be safe and comfortable all courtesy of Ann Arbor Family!

Congratulations to Mary Melendez, our December Prize Package Giveaway winner!

Cooper & Kid Kit

Cooper & Kid is working hard to give dads their spot in the limelight with their Cooper Kit, a quarterly subscription box that provides men with easy, entertaining ways to wow and bond with their kids.

Win a kit to see for yourself how much everyone in the family will love the activities! cooperandkid.com

Adams Street Publishing Co.

PISCES

Publisher/Editor in Chief

February 19 March 20

By Sue Lovett The symbol for Pisces is two fish. No, they are not swimming along happily side by side, one is headed one way and the other one is headed the other way. Of course, fish are underwater. What does this tell us about the little Pisces children? First of all, we know that they may be difficult to reach and to hold onto.

However, just the faintest ripple in the water lets them know we are near. They absolutely are “psychic” and they know when we are close, as well as what we are feeling when we hold them. Music delights them and holding the Pisces (no matter the age) comforts and soothes them.

They love their baths and spend lots of time in the water. They may be shy in groups unless invited specifically to join in the fun. They absolutely love to go barefoot at any age. They swim competitively – and often win. Music and dancing (boys and girls) show their supreme talents. If you ever feel as if they can see right through you, you are correct! They are the mind readers of the zodiac.

Enter online at annarborfamily.com for a chance to win.

February 1 through February 28.

Likeuson Facebook

Co-publisher/Chief Financial Officer Mark I. Jacobs (mjacobs@toledoparent.com) see above- me too

Editorial

Assignment Editor: Nadine Hariri (nadine@adamsstreetpublishing.com) talking when i shouldn’t be Writer: Rose Carver (rose@adamsstreetpublishing.com) tardiness Calendar: Marisa Rubin (mrubin@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Peeking during Heads Up 7-UP Social Media Specialist: Saul Jacobs (saul@adamsstreetpublishing.com) How much time do you have?

Contributing Writers: Lisa Carolin, Heather Gilmore, Jennifer Eberbach, Sarah Mayle, Jeremy Rosenberg, Katy M. Clark

Art/Production

Senior Designer: Leah Foley (leah@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Talking Production Manager: Brittney Koehl (adsin@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Not talking Graphic Design: Imani Lateef (imani@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Honor student- I didn’t get in trouble

Advertising

Regional Sales Manager: Aubrey Hornsby (ahornsby@adamsstreetpublishing.com) cuties Sales Manager: Connie Peters (connie@adamsstreetpublishing.com) My dog following my brother and I into the school building Sales support: Catherine Bohr (classifieds@adamsstreetpublishing.com) Nothing, I was an angel!

Customer Service Representative: Joseph South (jsouth@adamsstreetpublishing.com) being late

Administration

Accounting: Robin Armstrong (rarmstrong@toledoparent.com) Looking out the window and daydreaming Distribution: Saul Jacobs (saul@adamsstreetpublishing.com)

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

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

Entire contents © 2015 by Adams Street Publishing Co. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form is prohibited without the written permission of the publisher.

Also publishers of:

for a chance to win prizes throughout the month.

From baby products to mom essentials, we have you covered!

www.facebook.com/ annarborfamily 4

Collette Jacobs (cjacobs@toledoparent.com) Trouble? I’m a first-born

Advertising/General Info: For advertising

Hugaboo

We found the solution for parents with little ones 3-11 months old looking for a support system.

Providing them with a cozy, safe environment for playing at ground level, Hugaboo was invented by a busy mom and is a must have for any new parent! myhugaboo.com

What were you always getting in trouble for in grade school?

• February 2015 • www.annarborfamily.com

Audited by

Member

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

An inside look at what we’re loving for parents this month

COMMUNITY

SNAPS

Ann Arbor Family’s list of “favorite things” gives you an inside look at the what we’re loving for families right now.

Cast member playing the Arctic Fox in December’s Junior Theatre production of Snow Queen at the Ann Arbor Civic Theatre

Sparkup Magical Book Reader

This device enables parents to create personalized audio recordings of illustrated children’s books, so that kids can listen and read along.

Designed for children ages three through eight, it simply attaches to the top of a book and records the user’s voice while tracking each page with its built-in camera. $59.99. sparkupreader.com

LivingPlug Inlet Wall Plug-Ins

Reclaim lost aesthetics in your home with these personalized outlet cover-ups!

Images and photographs from the LivingPlug Gallery, or your own images, can be used as faceplates that secure to the INLETs chrome pins. A great way to protect kids’ curious fingers! $25 for inlet, faceplate prices vary. www.livinglug.com

l, 7, Chelsea Reece Carrol

We’re always looking for great photos to fill our community snaps page! Send your favorite moments to production@ adamsstreet publishing.com Dance Steps dancers hav ing some pr before their eshow fun Winter Rev ue perform ance Dance Steps dancers wit h their instru enjoying a co ctor mpetition da y at the NU dance conven VO tion

at kills ock s useum l b g in build -On M their or Hands g n i ractic n Arb ren p the An Child

Students the Lesli enjoy a mid-win e Scienc e & Nat ter break camp ure Cent at er

www.annarborfamily.com • February 2015 •

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Compiled by Rose Carver

Clague Middle School student and film star Anton Greene

Later Start Times Possible for Ann Arbor Schools

A Clague Middle School sixth grader, born and raised in Ann Arbor, is at the doorstep of global stardom for his leading role in the Ukrainian feature film “The Guide,” which has been submitted for Oscar consideration. Anton Sviatoslav Greene had never acted before when he was cast to star in the Oles Sanin film, set in the Great American Depression. The story follows a man and his son, played by Greene, as they travel to Ukraine to launch a tractor business. When his father is murdered by Stalin’s secret police, the boy goes on the run with a blind musician. Greene’s status as bilingual, his summer trips to Ukraine, and some luck, got him the movie role of a lifetime.

Tea with Fairies at Crazy Wisdom Bookstore and Tea Room Calling all fairies! Join the Crazy Wisdom staff as they transform into their true form: fairies! They will dance around the tearoom while they serve you tea and sweet desserts. Bring your magic wand, for there is usually a magic show to go along with the tea party. A short story time will also take place. Dress up, and bring the whole family. Registration is required.

Waking a teenager up at seven in the morning for high school may soon no longer be a struggle faced by many Ann Arbor parents as the Ann Arbor School Board considers implementing a later start in the day for students, but the change is still under debate. A statement released by the American Academy of Pediatrics in August of last year caught the attention of many Ann Arbor parents and guardians. According to the AAPS's research, students are simply not getting the 8.5 to 9.5 hours of sleep that their growing brains need, urging middle and high schools to aim for start times of 8:30am or later. Despite that advice, Secretary of the Board Andy Thomas said the decision is far from an easy one to make.

“There are many sides to this issue and many factors to be taken into consideration,” Thomas said. “Some parents have questioned whether moving to a later start time would really result in improved sleep patterns for students, or whether this would just push everything back, with students staying up even later than they do now and not adding any actual sleep time.”

The later start time could interfere with extracurriculars, which is another obstacle. Thomas also said that the cost of transportation would have to increase, because if middle and high school followed the AAPS’s recommendation and started at the same time, more bus drivers would need to be hired. The board’s performance committee will meet in March to further discuss this proposal.

Thursday, February 19 at 1-2:30pm & 4-5:30pm. $11 for each Fairy. Free for babies 18 months and younger. Crazy Wisdom Tea Room. 114 S. Main St. 734-665-2757. crazywisdom.net

New Registration Program at Ann Arbor Schools Thanks to new legislation passed in December, registration for this coming fall semester will be a lot easier for Ann Arbor Public Schools, with the option of online registration replacing pen and paper. Taking a full stride into the conveniences of technology, AAPS will use an online system to register students. InfoSnap is the name of the registration system, and it is user friendly. Andy Thomas, the AAPS Board of Education Secretary said that this new registration program will eliminate the loss of forms due to human error, and do away with repetitive form filings.

“Once a student has been registered, registration in subsequent years will be much simpler, as it will be necessary only to update information that has changed. It will facilitate transitions between schools as the information will be on a single database rather than housed at each individual school,“ Thomas said.

Some of the problems with this new system are that some families don’t have ready access to the internet, but Thomas said those families will receive accommodations.

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826michigan to the Restore Love Engaging, brave young writers are here to put the words in your heart on paper for your Valentine. Students at 826michigan, a local non-profit organization dedicated to supporting students ages six to eighteen with their creative and expository writing skills, are here to help. For a $25 donation, you can have a custom love letter or poem and a hardcover copy of Wild Things sent to your dearly beloved. To guarantee a February 14 delivery date, orders must be submitted online by 5pm on Tuesday, February 10.

Their work will raise funds to provide free tutoring programs to over 3,000 students across Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti and Detroit. The form is available on 826michigan.org/valentines.

Donations may be submitted separately via 826michigan.org or by contacting 826michigan directly at 734-761-3463.

• February 2015 • www.annarborfamily.com

Going Green at Lucky’s Market Organic and natural foods grocery chain Lucky’s Market is set to open at a new Ann Arbor location. Although there have been obstacles, owners Bo and Trish Sharon plan to open in mid-to-late February at the former Kroger location on Industrial Hwy. Customers can purchase organic produce, freerange meats, seafood, and vitamins and supplements from the national chain that uses fresh ingredients and simple recipes. Ann Arbor’s foodies and organic enthusiasts alike are sure to fill the aisles, attracted by lower prices than other natural foods grocers. The Sharons founded Lucky’s Market in 2003, and are eager to set up shop in the green-loving city of Ann Arbor. “We look forward to being an integral part of the Ann Arbor community and supporting our new neighbors through not only top-quality food, but also through a variety of local giving programs,” Trish said in a recent press release. -RC 1919 S. Industrial Hwy. 303-530-0782. www.luckysmarket.com

Up Close and Personal with Sea Life

The new Auburn Hills Sea Life Michigan Aquarium will flip, dive, and enchant with its underwater creatures and seascapes. As of January 29, the Aquarium is open to the public. It is a 35,000 square foot amphibian palace, with over 250 underwater species, and a total of 5,000 creatures. Get up close and personal with an octopus, a great white shark, and jellyfish along with turtles, stingrays, seahorses; the cutest to the most ruthless sea creatures are available for you to view. Interact with shrimp, pet a sea urchin, pick up a crab, and touch a sea star- with interactive touch pools, children and adults alike will be stimulated with wonder. -RC Monday-Friday 10am-9pm, Saturday 10am-9pm, and Sunday 10am–6pm. $20. 4316 Baldwin Rd., Auburn Hills. 866-622-0605. Purchase tickets online at visitsealife.com/michigan/.

More...

Taking a Holistic Approach

BRAVO! Cucina Italiana and P.F. Chang’s opened their doors in December to families looking for Italian and Chinese cuisine at Briarwood Mall. 760 Briarwood Circle. Reservations accepted. www.bravoitalian.com, www.pfchangs.com

A new medical practice in Brighton opened by Susan Rose, Doctor of Osteopathy, is ready to treat patients of all ages with a holistic, total body approach. The fully-licensed physician concentrates on hands-on treatment that “gets to the root of the problem” through a number of modalities, specifically cranialsacral therapy, which is a gentle way of doing body work that doesn’t just pertain to the head and spine.

Susan Rose, Doctor of Osteopathy, opens a new practice to treat all ages

“I see newborns to help them through the consequences of the birth process,” said Dr. Rose.

“For children who have misshapen heads, the problem goes all the way down the neck the spine, so I take a holistic approach in order to treat the whole baby.”

Dr. Rose emphasized that children are subjected to trauma through everyday activities and falling.

“Kids are resilient but they don’t bounce back as much as people give them credit for.

If they have asymmetry from birth, and then experience these daily traumas, it can create lasting effects,” she said.

Her typical method of treatment involves sitting with patients for about thirty minutes to get their medical history and history of the problem they’re dealing with to determine key problems. Although she does frequently start on the head, she uses a priority system to make sure she’s treating the most affected area first. She then talks about needed treatment, exercises, stretches and supplements, which she feels are essential.

“Contrary to what people think, osteopaths aren’t always treating back pain. Many musicians come in with hand and wrist problems, while dancers often suffer foot, ankle and knee pain,” said Dr. Rose. “They should all be doing yoga or Pilates because they are critically beneficial for stretching and mindfulness.”

Ensuring that patients leave in a balanced position is important, she said. “I want to make sure they leave my office feeling good. If they don’t leave here in a balanced position, they won’t be getting relief from their presenting complaint or they’ll leave with something new in pain.” -NH 5889 Whitmore Lake Rd., Suite 4, Brighton. 810-588-6911. www.drsusanrose.com

www.annarborfamily.com • February 2015 •

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Moms Who Are Making a Difference Get togethers for mothers of special needs children

by Nadine Hariri

Finding the right support group when raising a special needs child can make all the difference. At Moms Making a Difference Coffees, mothers are doing just that. Moms, grandmothers and female caregivers of special needs children are encouraged to join the discussion with a casual, confidential time to talk among each other about the special stresses and circumstances that come along with raising a family with a special needs child. They also discuss how to make time to care for themselves, work with educators and other people caring for their children, and to make a difference in their kids’ lives to lead them toward success.

Visitors don’t need to sign up and there is no required commitment to attend every session, rather just join the group when schedules allow. Treat yourself by listening to other moms, share your stories, experience the support of others who have similar challenges and take some time to become stronger for those in your life who depend on you.

Meetings are held every other Saturday from 8-10am at Keystone Church in Saline, 3375 Saline-Waterworks Rd., 1/2 mile west of Saline-Ann Arbor Road. Benny’s Bakery pretzels, donuts and hot coffee are provided. For more information, please email, text or call Kathleen McClatchey Whiteman at kathleenmc@gmail.com or 734-646-8212.

It’s All Write!

Ann Arbor District Library short story contest

by Lisa Carolin

I

t's time for all budding young writers to get to work on their entries for the It's All Write! Teen Short Story Contest. Sixth through twelfth graders are invited to submit a short story.

The annual event is sponsored by the Ann Arbor District Library. There are three categories: grades 6-8, grades 9 and 10, and grades 11 and 12, and each group is judged separately. The top three writers in each age group win cash worth a grand total of $1,500.

Stories can be submitted until March 13. Winners will be announced on June 7 at the Ann Arbor District Library during a special event featuring Young Adult author Rebecca Donovan.

Now in its 23rd year, funding for the It's All Write! Teen Short Story Contest awards comes from the Friends of the Ann Arbor District Library.

"The contest's longevity is based on the sheer amount of interest which keeps growing each year," said Kayla Pennoyer, library technician for Youth and Adult Services at the AADL. "A unique part of the contest is the panel of published Young Adult authors who judge the stories.

It's so inspirational for young writers to know that their idols are reading their hard work."

Pennoyer says that you don't have to be from Michigan to submit a story.

"Last year we received a record number of 358 submissions, arriving from as far away as Australia," she said.

Winning stories will be published in a booklet and on the aadl.org website. For more information, email Pennoyer at allwrite@ aal.org. To see the contest guidelines, go to www.aadl.org/events/itsallwrite.

COMMUNITY

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PHOTO

KATI TO BY

BY PHO

E DORR

We’re always looking for great photos to fill our community snaps page! Send your favorite moments to production@ adamsstreet publishing.com

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• February 2015 • www.annarborfamily.com

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healthy kids

staff and felt comfortable there. Nursing in a group setting (for us a mom’s group in the early days) was also a comfortable place to practice and gain confidence.”

A New Mom’s Guide to Nursing in Public

Take the stress out of breastfeeding your baby

by Alyssa Chirco

You survived childbirth and learned the art of a successful latch, but if you have decided to breastfeed your baby, there is one final frontier you will need to conquer: the art of nursing in public.

“Breastfed babies, especially newborns, nurse frequently,” says Holly Robinson, a registered nurse and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant. “No matter how well you plan, eventually you are going to find yourself out of the house with a hungry baby, so it’s important to be prepared.”

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusive breastfeeding for about the first six months, and continued breastfeeding -- along with the introduction of complementary solids – for one year or more. While not every mother chooses to breastfeed, those who do are likely to breastfeed longer and enjoy the

experience more by learning to nurse in public with confidence and ease.

Practice makes perfect For many new moms, breastfeeding presents enough of a challenge in the comfort of your own living room, so the thought of nursing in public- where other people might see you– can be terrifying.

To boost your confidence, practice in front of a mirror so you can catch a glimpse of what others will (and will not) be able to see.

When you are ready to venture out of the house for the first time, consider attending a local breastfeeding support group or grabbing coffee with a supportive friend. “I started small– going to the same coffee shop every day– for practice,” says breastfeeding mom Rhianna Mathias. “It was a shop I’d patronized a lot before baby, so I was familiar with the

baby carrier. Try wearing a fashionable scarf or poncho that can double as a cover when baby is breastfeeding. Mom of two, Melody Meiners, is a fan of nursing covers, specifically the kind that have weights in one side or that tie around your neck and tent up. “It makes switching sides so much easier if you prefer to stay covered,” she says.

Find your comfort zone Some mothers feel totally at ease lifting their shirts to nourish their newborns, no matter where they happen to be. Others prefer a bit more privacy. No matter what your personal preference, be pre- Know your rights Keep in mind that, when it comes to pared when you head out in public by scoping out the setting as soon as you nursing in public, the law is on your side. arrive. Look for a comfortable chair or According to a database maintained by bench where you will be able to sit and the National Conference of State Legislatures, forty-six states have laws that spenurse when baby gets hungry.

If you are dining out and prefer to cifically allow women to breastfeed in any breastfeed discreetly, ask for a corner public or private location. Twenty-nine booth or table so you can sit with your states exempt breastfeeding from public back to other patrons. Many shopping indecency laws, including Michigan, as centers and museums also offer private The Breastfeeding Anti-Discrimination Act was signed into law in 2014. nursing stations as a courtesy to Also be aware that, sensabreastfeeding mothers. tionalized news stories aside, “I found that corners most people genuinely supwere my friends because How did you port your right to nurse I could simply turn a bit in public, and mothers to get her started,” says handle breastfeedMelissa McAlpine of her ing as a new mom? do it every day. “I never had any rude comments experience nursing her Share your stories in ten years of nursing, daughter in public. “Afand experiences only supportive ones,” ter the baby is latched with us via says breastfeeding veton, there’s not really eran and mom of four JenFacebook! anything to see, so I could nifer Heffern. swivel back.”

Martine Samocha, who Dress for success also breastfed four children, adds The right clothes and accessories make that “even though you think everyone is all the difference when you’re out in watching you, you are mostly being igpublic and baby decides it is time for a nored.” meal. Wear a stretchy sports bra that can be pulled aside as needed, or learn how to unhook and lower the cups of your nursing bra with one hand.

Many breastfeeding mothers like to pair a specially designed nursing tank top with a cardigan or loose blouse, since the top can be lifted up while the tank still covers your middle (where many of us have stretch marks we would prefer to keep hidden). Other mothers prefer to simply unbutton a few top buttons. A fussy baby is what draws attention, so wear clothes that make it easy to get baby latched on quickly.

A few key accessories can also make nursing in public easier. Learn how to nurse while carrying baby in a sling or

Fake it ‘til you make it If you are feeling nervous about breastfeeding your baby in public, you are not alone. “The first few times can seem uncomfortable,” admits mom of two Tammie Egloff, “but it gets easier.”

You will gain confidence gradually, so in the early days and weeks, smile politely at passers-by and rest assured that the more you nurse in public, the less self-conscious you will become.

“Eventually,” says Robinson, “you will appreciate the freedom that comes with knowing that, no matter where you are, you always have the perfect food ready to feed your baby.”

Alyssa Chirco is a freelance journalist and mother of two from St. Louis, Missouri.

www.annarborfamily.com • February 2015 •

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Education Guide 2015

Ann Arbor Christian School

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5500 Whitmore Lake Rd. 734-741-4948 www.annarborchristian.org Established in 1991, Ann Arbor Christian School provides a rich education centered on the Christian faith to students from preschool to grade eight. The school is founded on the principles that excellence in academics and a deep commitment to the Christian faith reinforce each other, and that partnership with families is essential in raising children of strong character and moral integrity. Graduates are distinguished by their intelligence, character, and winsome witness of Biblical values to the world.

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734-994-2200 www.a2schools.org Quality Programs. Quality Schools- This is what the Ann Arbor Public School District is known for. The AAPS 19 elementary schools, two K-8 schools, five middle schools, six high schools, one preschool and one online academy all represent exceptional educational opportunities for students. New initiatives such as the A2STEAM at Northside K-8 school, the International Baccalaureate (IB) offered to kindergarteners through twelfth graders at Mitchell Elementary, Scarlett Middle and Huron High Schools, infusion of World Language in our schools including Spanish, Arabic, German, French, and American Sign Language, as well as Early Fives classrooms and technology infused in every school, makes AAPS the choice for educational achievement in Washtenaw County.

• February 2015 • www.annarborfamily.com

Discover the best place for your child’s education by taking a look at these local academic institutions and what makes them unique, making it easier to decide where to send your little learners to school!

Ann Arbor Public Schools Community Education and Recreation

1515 S. Seventh St. 734-994-2300 aareced.com Explore! Create! Innovate! AAPS Rec & Ed offers many ways for your child to try hands-on science, technology, engineering, arts and math (aka STEAM). Educational experts agree that extracurricular programs offer unique settings for STEAM learning. Kids can roll up their sleeves, try a variety of projects, and learn essential 21st century skills - all without having a test at the end. See their after school website, aarecedafterschool.weebly.com.

Daycroft Montessori

100 Oakbrook Dr., 734-930-0333 1095 N. Zeeb Rd., 734-662-3335 www.daycroft.org A Daycroft education includes the Montessori, student-centered approach and traditional and progressive teaching methods. With two Montessori-certified teachers per classroom along with individual and group lessons, they nurture the whole child. Their preschool offers a solid foundation with a five day per week program with full or half day options. At the elementary campus they maintain two teachers in every multi-age classroom, and provide individual and group lessons. Specials include art, music, Spanish/French, technology and physical education.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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

Early Learning Center Preschool

3070 Redwood Dr. 734-973-7722 www.elcpreschool.com Their philosophy is learning through a playbased curriculum and it gives kids structure and encourages maximum expression. The NAEYC accredited school is a traditional halfday preschool program, not a daycare or co-op.

They are run by a parent board of volunteers so families have an active role in decision making in the program. “We’re ideal for parents who like their children home for lunchtime and naps,” says teacher Marciah Boerema. Each classroom is composed of two teachers with Bachelor’s in Education who team teach and work together to make sure that each child is getting a well-rounded preschool experience.

Go Like The Wind

3540 Dixboro Lane 734-747-4722 www.golikethewind.com Their mission is to provide the highest quality Montessori education within a Christian environment that fosters a love for one another through God. The school is nestled on a fortyacre campus that includes woodlands and open meadows, which are utilized to educate students. Their diverse student population and staff also contribute to opportunities that allow learners to excel in all that they do. Students become inquisitive, innovative, and selfdirected learners well-prepared for the next challenge and opportunity.

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

Morning, afternoon, and evening sessions available.

Contact us to tour our facility, meet our team, or inquire about insurance coverage

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

continued on p. 12

OPEN HOUSE Sunday, January 18 1:00 - 4:00 pm Thursday, February 5 6:30-8:30 pm Thursday, February 12 6:30-8:30 pm Thursday, March 5 10:00-2:00

Ŕ *OTQJSJOH B -JGFMPOH -PWF PG -FBSOJOH • "VUIFOUJD .POUFTTPSJ &EVDBUJPO XJUIJO B EJWFSTF FOWJSPONFOU • $FSUJţFE .POUFTTPSJ 5FBDIFS JO FWFSZ DMBTTSPPN • &OSJDINFOU $MBTTFT

Infants/Toddlers

Preprimary

Sunday, March 15 1:00-4:00 Thursday, April 30 10:00-2:00

Elementary

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

www.annarborfamily.com • February 2015 •

11

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Wild Swan Theater Presents

continued from p. 11

the 9th Annual

Life Learning Community

Purchase tickets online at wildswantheater.org or by phone at 734-995-0530

Wild Swan Theater’s signature fundraising event of the year: Chocolate Crush.

An evening of chocolate tastings from premiere area chocolatiers; savory appetizers, beer and wine from local purveyors; silent and live auctions; and music by the Royal Garden Trio.

806 Airport Blvd.

734-545-7000 www.lifelearningcommunity.org Life Learning Community is a Christian blended learning community for students in kindergarten through twelfth grade that combines the one-on-one education and influence of homeschooling with the technology, resources, and community of a traditional school. They specialize in meeting students right where they are and putting together a customized plan to fit their potential that will challenge them to become the best possible version of themselves, as God created them to be. Located in Ann Arbor, their mission is to educate the whole person in order to graduate complete students.

Wild Swan Theater

6175 Jackson Rd. 734-995-0530 www.wildswantheater.org Wild Swan Theater, nationally recognized for its ingenious artistry, has been delighting family and school audiences since 1980 with performances that blend storytelling, movement, and music into magical, accessible experiences. All productions feature original scripts drawn from beloved tales and multicultural traditions. Skillfully made props, puppets and masks, along with dance and original music ignite and excite imaginations. In addition to their season of performances at Towsley Auditorium on the campus of Washtenaw Community College, they regularly bring travelling productions to schools, libraries, museums, and theaters.

TLC Adventure Preschool Individualized attention in a Warm, Creative, Christian environment U Ages 2 ÊxÊÞÀðÊUÊ/ ÀiiÊ >ÃÃÀ à Morning Program: Mon, Wed, Fri 9am - 1:30pm

Saturday, March 14, 2015 6:30-10:00 pm

COME TO OUR OPEN HOUSE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT TLC! /1 - 9]Ê , Ê£ä]ÊÓä£xÊUÊÈ*

Lake Forest Golf Club 3110 W. Ellsworth, Ann Arbor Tickets:

Chocolate Chip - $60 per person ($35 tax deductible) Chocolate Bar - $125 per person ($100 tax deductible)

12

(734) 662-4419 ÀÊi > Ê«ÀiÃV JÌÀ ÌÞ>>° À}

• February 2015 • www.annarborfamily.com

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http://trinityaa.org

ENRNOW OLLI NG

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

a i d e M l a i Rise of Sgotche Risks of Boostinullying Cyberb tz

by Laura Kre

1 in 5

cyberbully victims contemplate suicide

of the creation se, because ca ed ’s m ko ee al d H GIRLS are more g. In t, it was cyberbullyin one inciden ly on e d id te ts u it ou st hool likely to be victims the page con ayne High Sc bullying. exAnthony W own life o of d at t er h g l, ac n ri ok p yi an ll A to t u , ot n Las of cyberbullying cyberb tly eeker, 16 ecifically at llying. Shor focuses ent Kayla M ws aimed sp School Law d to cyberbu la Toledo, stud te fe e t ec Sa at bj en s St d t’ su u at g g st M than boys. quirin other ly bein . Michigan’s light that an , including re after alleged ist, however . d cyberbuly, it came to for students le s ce ed d ib n ag ar ie ss tr er ce gu p is fe ac Girls are also just ex th s sa after t form l ko, had on creating entary schoo ymous repor this law l, Kaylee Hal on g em n oo el an ti h y e sc en rb e av m h ea th le n at a r imp as likely to become schools to onsibility fo es to a student from ocking her progeria, a lying when m g the resourc imes the resp e et in ag m av p h So m ls ra g oo n stag llyi cyberbullies. es with sch lso, cyberbu created an In and others li g problem. A hool der. yin sc ll or e u ow is th rb d gr e e be ic id th et cy ts n ng ge d ou counteract in experienci ool hours an on s a legal is not alone rbullying is pen after sch lining bullie p be ap ci h cy is , n d m ca e co That school ak g. yin hich could m g to NoBull schools. premises, w ing. Accordin ost prevalent at middle m is us challenge. the rise and ’t really get ter is it doesn is issue is,” said at m e th of “The truth significant th ssor of educa we deny how anywhere if sociate profe as l , h el this ac w ov as o -K cara Toled wined with Encourage Dr. Lisa Pes factors intert University of the y e h most it th an re w m at fo e y er d n ar og an e ai t ol tr er rs n ch th fi io sy st gh ct p u te al m ou teens to take an h ro s T tion dp ardian h the prevention an ents and gu ild’s vulnerneed to teac ar ch ly p r , al ei re em th e bl ss ro as a campus “W KEEP HOME re p e. occasional break d add s that g.” ent of Justic and bullyin e situation an warning sign t e th ic th fl ss n of se U.S. Departm co e as ar al from technology COMPUTERS IN tween norm should be aw ng cyberbullying. milies, difference be ability. They ienci hools and fa er sc p y ex an m be n h ay it ar s A SHARED SPACE d seem lessly w ng-free le their child m , if your chil Working tire h create bullyi ac to ov s s p -K al el ia it ra h p ed h Pesca al m ovac in hos ing onto soci According to sels children Dr. Pescara-K ion, suied with logg ts. She coun ss extremes ss re en h se m ep ot n d ob B . ro FORBID or om rn vi t ing en hesitan suffer fr me conce ey so th ts if n ra ts n llying on ar u ie w at rb is tp be th ou cy s, s te Teens from sending as ce si d an web ild fa xiety. es ts and/or an e that your ch lso, if your child becom mean messages cidal though A could indicat en. p, this is e of the scre r grades dro ei th or the other sid / e (even if someone d rv an should se withdrawn of behavior ge aggressive, an g else did it FIRST) n ch ti y be affec eally, an rough orrisome. R ullying may th w rb ce be la cy p s at ke th g sign g that ta as a warnin r, Instagram ng is bullyin book, Twitte Cyberbullyi ce .

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Spotting the Signs

Sound advice to parents

ing

Defining Cyberbully

stopcyberbullying.org

Open House Coming Soon!

Call for Details

www.annarborfamily.com • February 2015 •

13

14

Breaking Dad The Undeniable Princess Effect

Turning the glitter, glitz and glam into valuable moral lessons

by Jeremy Rosenberg

If you are the parent of a young daughter, then it is quite possible that your house has been invaded by princesses. Frilly, sparkly, glittery, princess stuff. There’s no avoiding it. No matter how determined you are to minimize the princess effect, little girls seem to eat it up.

Take advantage of the colder temperatures by visiting indoor and outdoor ice skating rinks with your children to keep boredom at bay.

Ann Arbor Ice Cube

There has been a shift in the last year, however, at least at my house.

Gone are Ariel and Belle and Jasmine, all replaced by the snow-covered sisters Anna and Elsa of Frozen. Our house is littered with Frozen paraphernalia. I’ve been to other houses with young girls, and they are in the same condition. I for one have welcomed this change, as Anna and Elsa have buried the previous princess trope in an avalanche of snow, and hopefully for good.

I have spent far more time undermining popular princess stories than a man ideally should. I told my daughter Ariel wasn’t allowed to marry Prince Eric until she completed her Ph.D. in Marine Biology. This is more than fair, Ariel has advanced knowledge of marine life, her real issue in the academic world is probably vocabulary.

And guess what? Things didn’t work out between Belle and the Beast.

Relationships are hard. That’s ok, because Belle decided to enter Le Cordon Bleu to pursue a career in the male dominated field of professional chefs.

Jasmine opened a school for girls in Punjab. You get the picture. Make the princesses strong women who face difficult choices, these tales are open books— we as parents can fill in the moral gaps. They don’t all have to be insipid love stories that reduce women to mere objects of male attention.

Happily, Frozen breaks many of these boundaries. A running theme in the movie is that Anna is foolish for agreeing to marry a guy she just met. True love wins in the end, but it is love between sisters. Yes, there is a later love interest for Anna, but he is a working-class schmo— an unlikely match for a princess. And he has a really cute reindeer. As for Olaf, anyone who analyzes this deep is in need of help. With all due respect to Sigmund Freud, sometimes a talking snowman is just a talking snowman.

Don’t get me wrong, I’ll be more than happy when the Anna and Elsa phase is over, and my daughter is ready to move on to a real princess movie, Princess Mononoke. But, as for Frozen, things could be worse. From Twilight Sparkle to the Twilight books, there is far more vapid material out there for girls.

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,

The Cube is a traditional indoor skating rink—open year-round. Sign up for lessons or drop in for pick-up hockey or an open skate.

121 Oak Valley Dr., 734-213-1600 Costs: $4/adults, $3/kids (ages 12 and under), $3/skate rental Public Skating: Check website for updates

Buhr Park

This is an outdoor covered, openair skating rink (chilly!). The rink sometimes has themed parties like Funky Frosty Fridays, where skaters dress in costume (bell bottoms on '70s night or cowboy hats at the Hoedown Skate).

2751 Packard Rd. 734-794-6234 Cost: $5/adults, $4/kids (age 17 and under), $3/skate rental Public Skating: Sundays 3:15-5:30pm; Tuesdays 7:45-8:45pm; Wednesdays 4:45-5:45pm and 7:15-8:45pm; Thursdays 7:15-8:45pm; Fridays 7:15-8:45pm; Saturdays 2:30-4:30pm and 7:15-8:45pm

Yost Arena

Located on the University of Michigan Athletic Campus, you can skate on the same ice that the U-M hockey team plays on.

1116 South State St. 734-764-4600 Cost: $6/adults, $3/kids, $3/noon skate, $3/skate rental, $2/noon skate rental Public Skating: Monday-Friday from Noon to 12:50pm; check website for regular Public Skate dates and times as they are subject to change

www.annarborfamily.com • February 2015 •

15

Enhancing Life in the Community President and CEO Neel Hajra on the Ann Arbor Community Foundation

by Heather Gilmore

A

n integral part of the Ann Arbor Community Foundation’s mission is to enrich “the quality of life in our region through knowledgeable leadership, engaged grantmaking, and creative partnerships.” Neel Hajra, current chief operating officer and vice president for Community Investment and soon-to-be

16

president and CEO, shared his thoughts on the agency’s role in the community and his personal investment in the work that the Ann Arbor Community Foundation conducts.

Born and raised in Ann Arbor, Neel is currently raising his own family in his hometown. He earned both an undergraduate and law degree from the University of Michigan. “What keeps me going is playing a role in what keeps the community great and not just for fortunate folks.”

Neel officially began his position as president and CEO at the beginning of 2015. His role has contained two major

functions, managing the day to day operations such as the foundation’s financial and human resources departments, and overseeing the foundation’s grantmaking procedures. His aim is to help the AACF create “maximum impact in the community.”

The foundation provides many grants geared toward children and families. Additionally, a unique service provided is a youth council, which is a group of high schoolers from Ann Arbor schools, who interview nonprofits, read applications, and help make decisions about where grant funding is allotted. Neel said that it really reflects “youth empowerment” and shows how much the foundation supports youth. Additionally, there is a group of young families, called the “Giving Circle,” who raise funds and decide how to provide grants to nonprofits in the community.

• February 2015 • www.annarborfamily.com

“It’s pretty great to interact with so many people who care about working with the community,” said Neel. Speaking about previous president and CEO, Cheryl Elliott, he said, “She was well-respected and helped the agency grow and succeed.

We’ve been really strong and really successful under Cheryl’s leadership.” Neel presented his view of his leadership position and stated that the question that he is determined to pursue is “How do we keep the success going and expand on our impact in the community?”

The Ann Arbor Community Foundation has been in service for 51 years and has expanded its services to assist the Greater Ann Arbor area, Washtenaw, and Plymouth County areas.

Ann Arbor Community Foundation, 301 N. Main St., Suite 300. 734-663-0401.

For more information, visit www.aaacf.org.

The Best at Blimpy Burger, Revisited New location, same great taste

by Katy M. Clark

Krazy Jim’s Blimpy Burger

Ordering the right way There is a right way and a wrong way to order at Blimpy’s. Everyone gets a cafeteria tray and steps up to the counter.

Basically, speak when you are spoken to.

First, order sides from the fryer, then select your number of patties at the grill, a bun, and last but not least condiments.

I made my husband lead the way. He ordered fried cauliflower and French fries for the kids. I picked fried mushrooms.

There are also onion rings, fried zucchini, or mixed vegetables. At the grill,

Kid-friendly Yes

To avoid wait Weeknights are less crowded than weekends Noise level Moderate

Bathroom amenities There are separate bathrooms for men and women, but no changing tables High chairs Yes

Got milk White and chocolate, plus bottled juice, tea, soda and fountain pop

304 S. Ashley St. Ann Arbor, MI 48104 Phone: 734-663-4590 Hours: Mon-Sat: 11am–9pm www.blimpyburger.com “You’re going to Blimpy?” my seventy-one-year-old father asked on the phone from Nevada. “I used to go to Blimpy,” he finished quietly, his voice full of nostalgia.

It’s true. Krazy Jim’s Blimpy Burger has been serving hungry coeds since 1953.

When my dad was a University of Michigan undergrad in the 1960’s, he dined at Blimpy Burger, albeit in its original location on Division. Just last October, after a 14-month hiatus, Blimpy Burger was resurrected in a new location on Ashley.

The new location offers counter seating in the front windows and plenty of tables and chairs, many relocated from the former location. It has a casual and comfortable vibe.

THE SHORT COURSE

Kids’ menu No, but kids can order a single patty for their burgers

Anything healthy for kids As a sign on the wall says, “We have a low-fat item on the menu. It’s called water.”

Food allergy concerns They’ll do their best. Peanut oil is not used and they can read labels of products, like buns, if you ask. my husband ordered a special edition Blimpy’s: the Pepper Steak Bullet, with three patties, grilled peppers, onions, provolone cheese, and a mixture of scallions, bacon and cracked black pepper with ranch dressing.

My eight-year-old daughter is not a fan of burgers, but she was not interested in Blimpy’s other menu items such as soup, chili, or sandwiches like a BLT. She ordered a single patty, a size only available to kids. Her brother, 11, and I selected two patties each. It was mildly thrilling to watch the cook toss balls of Western ground chuck on the grill and smash them with a spatula.

In no time the patties were ready and we were prompted to select cheese and condiments. Both kids got American cheese while I got cheddar. My son added bacon. Folks behind us were adding grilled eggs to their burgers.

You can also get items like salami or hot peppers. Next, we selected our buns—

regular for us vs. more exotic types like Kaiser or onion. The kids finished with ketchup while I went with mustard, lettuce and tomato.

Unless you get a Special Edition burger or sandwich, everything is ala Carte at Blimpy’s. For example, adding a tomato to my burger costs 25 cents. Still, with sides, burgers and drinks, our bill was less than $40 for the four of us.

Becoming fans at Blimpy’s The fried mushrooms and cauliflower were yummy. The vegetables tasted juicy

inside, which balanced nicely with crispy, fried goodness outside. My husband and I got ranch dressing for dipping, making the veggies even more decadent. The fries and thick-cut steak fries were pleasing to the kids.

“I love it,” my husband declared of his Pepper Steak Bullet. “The beef is good.

Juicy. The thing I love the most is the scallions and ranch.”

My son gobbled his burger while flashing thumbs up. I liked the beefy taste of my burger and wanted a third patty so that I tasted less of the bun. And what about my non-burger loving daughter?

“This is pretty good,” she commented.

“It’s kinda the best burger I’ve ever tasted.

Most burgers I don’t like.”

There were brownies and cookies available for dessert, but we were not tempted as our bellies were too full of Blimpy goodness.

New location? Yes. Same legendary Blimpy taste? For sure.

www.annarborfamily.com • February 2015 •

17

{

February 2015

All calendar events are subject to change, cancellation, and limited size.

Calling ahead for confirmation is recommended.

The Ark’s Storytelling Festival for Kids

}

Sunday, 2.22 / The Ark Three storytellers will take the stage at the Ark to tell unique children's tales. Alton Chung mixes superstitions of the Hawaiian Islands with the history of Japan, blending a unique mixture of Eastern mythology and island legends. Chung retells mysterious folklore with such passion, it is sure to stimulate a worldly curiosity in the young listener. Rev. Robert B Jones Sr. (left) has a storytelling style rooted in African American Roots music tradition.

The Detroit storyteller uses music, art, and animated oration to captivate the listener, and communicate the heart of the African culture. Jennifer Otto pulls magic out of thin air, spinning whimsical tales with her words, noises, and movement. She guides children through imaginative and descriptive stories, in narratives that could only come about through a voracious reader like herself. Bring the little ones and join all three for a very special event. 1pm, Sunday, February 22. $10. 316 S. Main St. 734-761-1451. theark.org

1 SUNDAY Fish from Head to Tail - Learn about fishy adaptations, behaviors and structures that help fish survive in Michigan lakes and streams with fish biologist Kevin Wehrly and his scaly friends. 2-3pm. $2/person, $5/family with State Recreation Passport.

Gerald E. Eddy Discovery Center, 17030 Bush Rd., Chelsea. 734-475-3170. wnha.org Kerry Tales: Buckle Your Show with Mother Goose - This half-hour long, family-oriented program is full of rhymes, riddles and stories with local storyteller Trudy Bulkley as Mother Goose. 2-2:30pm.

Hollander’s, 410 N. Fourth Ave. 734-769-3115. Free Neutral Zone Poetry Workshop Fiona and Alex of The NZ present a workshop on writing free-verse poetry. Grades 6+. 3-4:30pm. Downtown Library: MultiPurpose Room, 343 S. Fifth Ave. 734-327-8301. aadl.org Free

3 TUESDAY Tiny Treasure - Make a fold-out album inside of a small box for your tiniest masterpieces. For grades K-5. 2-3pm. Malletts Creek Branch Library: Program Room, 3090 E. Eisenhower Pkwy. 734-327-8301. aadl.org Free

6 FRIDAY Dance of the Neurons: The Art of Neuroscience Opening Reception - The exhibit features beautiful, full-color images of microscopic cell structures and shows an intimate perspective on the building blocks of life. 5-6:30pm.

Museum of Natural History, 1109 Geddes Ave. 734-764-0478. lsa.umich.edu/ummnh Free

7 SATURDAY Creature Encounters - Two-Toed Sloth - Meet Poco, the conservancy’s twotoed sloth. Also on February 14. 1-5pm, with sloth appearances at 2:30pm & 4pm. $4/child (ages 2-12), $6/adult (age 13 and up), free/ages 2 and under. The Creature Conservancy, 4940 Ann ArborSaline Rd. 734-929-9324. thecreatureconservancy.org 6th Annual Chocolate Extravaganza - Over 30 different business chains throughout the area celebrate chocolates, with tastings, innovations, prizes and fun. 10am-5pm. Downtown Chelsea. chelseamich.com Free Auditions for 101 Dalmatians Kids - Try out for The A2 Junior Theatre production of the Disney musical, directed by Caitlin Rowe.

Auditions also take place February 9 at 4pm. Callbacks are February 11 at 4pm.

Those auditioning should attend one of the two regular audition dates and should be available for callbacks. 9:30am. A2CT Rehearsal Studio, 322 W. Ann St. 734-971-2228. a2ct.org Free

8 SUNDAY Charlie Chaplin Shorts - Classic silent comedy shorts are shown as part of the Family-Friendly Film Series. 1:30pm. $10.

The Michigan Theater, 603 E. Liberty St. 734-668-8463. michtheater.com

18

• February 2015 • www.annarborfamily.com

Skins, Scat and skulls - In this handson program, naturalist and educator Dave Szczygiel will show his large collection of Michigan animal skins and skulls.

Learn how various creatures use their specialized body parts for survival and how you can recognize animal signs in the wild. 2-3pm. $2/person, $5/family with State Recreation Passport. Gerald E. Eddy Discovery Center, 17030 Bush Rd., Chelsea. 517-522-3949. wnha.org Un-Valentine’s Day Party - Middle school students are invited to make a valentines gift using chocolate, candy and strawberries while watching Disney’s Maleficent.

Registration required. 2:30-4:30pm.

Chelsea District Library: McKune Room, 221 S. Main St. 734-475-8732. chelsea.lib.mi.us Free Behind the Scenes Day - This is a rare opportunity to visit behind the scenes at the U of M Ruthven Museums Building. The four museums welcome you into collections areas, research laboratories, exhibit preparation areas and other spaces not usually open to the public. Reservation required.

Noon-5pm. U-M Museum of Natural History, 1109 Geddes Ave. 734-9365834. lsa.umich.edu/ummnh Free

9 MONDAY Annual Short Story Writing Contest - Area elementary school students (grades 3-5) are invited to submit entries until February 27. The contest guidelines are found online. Ann Arbor District Library, 343 S. Fifth Ave. 734-327-8301. aadl.org/events/writeon Free

11 WEDNESDAY Survivor: Animals in Winter Edition - A park naturalist will teach kids how to survive ice, snow and hunger in the winter. For ages 5-11. Registration required. 3:30-4:30pm. Chelsea District Library: McKune Room, 221 S. Main St. 734-475-8732. chelsea.lib.mi.us Free

12 THURSDAY Under The African Sky - This awardwinning local children’s theater presents a series of African folktales, geared toward ages 4-10. As with all Wild Swan productions, the performance is interpreted in American Sign Language. Audio description and backstage “touch” tours are available by prearrangement for blind audience members. Through February 14. 10:30am Thursday and Friday, noon on Friday, and 11am Saturday. $8-$12. Towsley Auditorium, 4800 E. Huron River Dr. 734-995-0530. wildswantheater.org

13 FRIDAY Cabin Fever Craft - Shake off the winter blues with simple craft and snack. For ages 6 and under. 1-2pm. $10/general admission, $8/student, $7.50/members. Dexter District Library, 3255 Alpine St. 734-426-4477. dexter.lib.mi.us Kids Night In Mini-Camp - Kids are invited to learn about all things red during a Valentine’s Day science celebration.

Registration required by February 11.

6-10pm. $35, $30/members. Museum of Natural History, 1109 Geddes Ave. 734-764-0478. lsa.umich.edu/ummnh

14 SATURDAY Owl Do I Love Thee - Spend a unique evening with your friends or sweetheart as you get up close with some lovable owls.

The evening also includes appetizers, games and a lantern-lit stroll with poems and a cozy fire. For ages 18+. Registration required. 7-9pm. $25/couple. Leslie Science & Nature Center, 1831 Traver Rd. 734-997-1553. lesliesnc.org 11th Annual Ice Fishing Derby - The Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission invites kids and adults to catch northern pike, blue gill, bass, and crappie for prizes in the “Longest Pan Fish.�

Bring your own bait! 7am-5pm. $5-$10.

Independence Lake County Park Beach Center, 3200 Jennings, Webster Twnshp.

734-449-4437. parsonline.ewashtenaw.org

15 SUNDAY Family Ice Fishing & Bonfire - Make your own fishing pole and then head to the lake to try it out. There will be ice fishing demonstrations and an area cleared for skating. Warm up afterwards around a bonfire while roasting marshmallows and drinking hot chocolate.10am-2pm. Gerald E. Eddy Discovery Center, 17030 Bush Rd., Chelsea. 517-522-3949. wnha.org Free Mind Over Matter - Children will explore how the brain interprets the world by using the five senses. For ages 6-11.

Registration required. 2-3pm. Natural History Museum, 1109 Geddes Ave. 734-764-0480. lsa.umich.edu/ummnh Free

16 MONDAY Buhr Blitz - This public skating event features family-oriented games, contests and prizes. Skate rentals available. Noon-2pm. $6. Buhr Park Ice Rink, 2751 Packard Rd. 734-971-3228. a2gov.org

22 SUNDAY Animals Have Class - Learn about the characteristics of a variety of animals and what makes them different during this hands-on interactive program. 2-3pm. $2/ person, $5/family with State Recreation Passport. Gerald E. Eddy Discovery Center, 17030 Bush Rd., Chelsea. 734-475-3170. wnha.org

21 SATURDAY Grange Junior Makers - Kids (with adult) are invited to work on electronics, robotics and woodworking projects.

10am-noon. Pittsfield Grange, 3337 Ann Arbor-Saline Rd., Saline. 734-926-5079. pittsfieldgrange.org Free Owl Prowl Family Program - This popular, annual program includes a hike through Black Pond Woods and presentations with live owls, to learn how ears, eyes and feathers help owls survive during the night. 7-9pm. $34/per family. Leslie Science and Nature Center, 1831 Traver Rd. 734-997-1533. lesliesnc.org

Searchable listings updated daily

annarborfamily.com

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 1 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 The Ark’s Storytelling DROPPED OFF to Ann Arbor Family Press. Classifieds by the15th Festival for Kids - Alton Chung brings Eastern cultural stories, Rev. Robert B. Jones of the month prior to publication.

Sr. combines music, storytelling and art with African American Roots, and Jennifer Otto creates whimsical stories to enchant the young listener. 1pm. $10. The Ark, 316 S. Main St. 734-761-1451. theark.org

23 MONDAY Much Ado About Nothing Auditions - The Ann Arbor Youth Actor’s Guild holds auditions of the witty Shakespeare play, that runs May 8-10.

Additional audition on February 25.

For grades 2-7. 6-7:30pm. The Jewish Community Center of Greater Ann Arbor, 2935 Birch Hollow Dr. 734-971-0990. aayag.org

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.

HELP WANTED Massage Therapist: Currently Hiring Therapists to work at RelaxStation in downtown Ann Arbor. Free Parking, Flexible Hours, great team! 734-6231951

SERIOUS MOMS WANTED. We need seriWEDNESDAY ous & motivated people for expanding health and wellness National Polar Bear Day - Make min- industry. High speed internet/ iature polar bears using cardboard tubes, phone essential. Free online string, and glue. Grades preK-5. 7-8:30pm. training. iworkforfreedom.com

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Ann Arbor District LIbrary: Malletts Creek Branch, 3090 E. Eisenhower Pkwy.

734-327-4200. aadl.org Free

27 FRIDAY

Services

SPECIAL:

DOWNTOWN ANN ARBOR

Family Workshop: Capers - This fun family workshop begins by scouring the Museum with a list of clues to unearth the amazing animals and mythical creatures lurking in paintings and sculptures throughout the collections. 1:30-3pm. $15. Ann Arbor Art Center, 117 W. Liberty St. 734-994-8004. annarborartcenter.org

19 THURSDAY Tea with the Fairies - The Crazy Wisdom staff dresses up as fairies and serves tea and cookies followed by a fairythemed storytime. Registration required.

1-2:30pm & 4-5:30pm. $11. Crazy Wisdom Bookstore & Tearoom, 114 S. Main St. 734-665-2757. crazywisdom.net

marketplace

Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays

Toddler Storytime, Youngsters enjoy listening to a fun story reading. For ages 18 months-3 years. Registration required.

10:30-11am. Dexter District Library, 3255 Alpine St. 734-426-4477. dexter.lib.mi.us Free

Wednesdays

Electronic Music Production, This hands-on workshop is led by Detroit sound designer Mike Huckaby. Runs until March 4. 7-8:30pm. Downtown Library: Training Center, 343 S. Fifth Ave. 734-327-8301. aadl.org Free

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

Sky Talk: The Sky Tonight - Bright stars, constellations, planets, and telescopic objects in the current sky are discussed. 11:30am, 1:30pm, & 3:30pm. $5. Museum of Natural History, 1109 Geddes Ave. 734-764-0478. lsa.umich.ummna

s (OT 3TONE -ASSAGE HR !DD ON HOT TOWEL ON HANDS OR FEET %SSENTIAL /ILS s 0OSTPARTUM BIRTH BODY WORK s 0AIN REMOVAL FOR CAR ACCIDENT VICTIMS

734-239-3344 Massage: Walk-in Appointments Available. Free Parking. Make some time for yourself! Come in stressed leave refreshed. RelaxStation.

734-623-1951 Birth Trauma and Pregnant Massage Sher, 740-743-7160 - 85/hr + Hot Towel 42.50/hr. Same Day. AA. CCs accepted.

Victorian atmosphere.

Give Hope. Become a Foster Parent. Attend a free training today to learn more! For more information: www.judsoncenter.org or 313-255-8272.

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

Payment: Payment must be received before an ad can

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

Mail or drop off:

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

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

Misprints: Credit toward future ads.

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

EDUCATION

Events

ARE YOUR CHILDREN INTERESTED IN ASTRONOMY? Do they like observing the moon, planets and stars? GO TO www.YoungAstronomer.org

March 14 - MOM2MOM CONSIGNMENT SALE Liberty School, 7265 N. Ann Arbor St., Saline. 9-2. $1.00 entry. More info at:www. mom2momconsignmentsale. com

FREE HALF-HOUR CONSULTATION-- for families, enriching literacy and support for school/home. Ann Arbor Educational Associates, annarboreducationalassoc@ gmail.com.

WANTED “New mom? We’d like to interview women who had their first baby in the last 5-9 months, for a study on the transition to motherhood. Pays $20. Please contact Charity: newmoms.study@gmail.com, subject line: Motherhood Study.�

ANNOUNCEMENTS 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​ The Newcomers Coterie Club of Ann Arbor provides a friendly social contact for new and returning residents to the Ann Arbor area, as well as a new social outlet for established residents. Visit annarbornewcomersclub.com

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

FOR SALE Independent Damsel PRO selling self defense products for more info go to www. mydefensepro.net/PRO5883

HEALTH FUN, FREE 4-WEEK FIT CHALLENGE! Free Fitness M & W 6:30pm off Packard Rd. in Ann Arbor. All ages & skill levels welcome www.nutritionbychoice.com 734-707-7697 ACTIVE BODY CHALLENGE starts Jan 2nd - 8 Week Fitness & Nutrition Program, Cash prizes in 4 categories nutritionbychoice.com or 734-707-7697​ 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

Call Catherine 419.244.9859

to sell your stuff today

www.annarborfamily.com • February 2015 •

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