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FREEJuly 2012FREEJuly 2012FREEJuly 2012

iTween 13-year-old app designer Henry Abrams

Engaging advocate Maria Thomas, a champion of children's health

Casual comfort Classic Cup Café's laid-back dining

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&M AT E R N I T Y A N D B A B Y G U I D E

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2 • July 2012 • www.annarborfamily.com

3www.annarborfamily.com • July 2012 •

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4 what’s briefly happening

5 community snaps

6 new kids on the block

7 exceptional families

8 tween the lines

17 calendar — compiled by Julian Garcia

19 marketplace

departments

13 mother mayhem Hey! We’re flying! Cross-cultural bonding in the air —by Mary Helen Darah

14 parent profile An engaging advocate Maria Thomas finds her calling helping A2 kids stay healthy —by Sharon Gittleman

16 food fight Casual comfort Classic Cup Cafe laid-back dining —by Katy M. Clark

commentary

feature

recycle this paperFor our children's future ...

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Toledo Area Parent News Winner of 28 awards for design and editorial content

General ExcellenceBest Commentary

Best Personal Commentary

In-Depth ReportingBest Overall Writing

Best Cover PhotoBest Supplement Design

Volume 6 • Issue 7 July 2012

Publisher/Editor in ChiefCollette Jacobs: [email protected]

Co-Publisher/CFO Mark I. Jacobs: [email protected]

Editorial Editors

Alia Orra: [email protected] Recker: [email protected]

Staff WriterMatt Desmond: [email protected]

Calendar Julian Garcia: [email protected]

Marisa Rubin: [email protected]

Contributing Writers Katy M. Clark, Mary Helen Darah, Sharon Gittleman,

Jessica Schrader-Sparkes

Art/Production Art Director

Kristi Polus: [email protected]

Graphic Designers Sarah Baird: [email protected]

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Jake Ziolkowski: [email protected]

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Reese Lea Sadler,10 days, Flat Rock, MI

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{Photography} by Trudi Lynn

Scan the code to see the guide or visit annarborfamily.com and click on the Summer Camp Guide link.

Still need to signup for summer camp?Check out our guide online!


Celtic summerDabble in Celtic tradition for the day at the Saline Celtic Festival. You can watch and participate in traditional dances, including Scottish country dancing, highland and more. The family-oriented fun includes kids being able to paint a shield, braid a maypole, listen to bagpipes and see jousters in action. There will be animals exhibited, including dogs, sheep and birds of prey, along with a wide variety of market vendors. Tickets are $5-$10. Mill Pond Park, West Bennett St., Saline. July 12-14. 734-944-2810. www.salineceltic.org.

Kids can cook, tooAnn Arbor Cooks is offering exciting cooking adventures (and hands-on kitchen time) for kids this summer. Starting July 30 and continuing through August 3, children and teens can learn how to make healthy food choices during hands-on cooking classes geared towards recipes rich in veggies, fruits, vitamins and whole grains. Recipes for all meals of the day will be included, especially the ever-important (and rarely nutritious) dessert. Kids will learn to prepare things like fruit and yogurt parfaits or black bean quesadillas and Mexican quinoa soup. They’ll even get their hands into a guiltless pleasure dessert of peaches and cream smoothies, chocolate-dipped fruit skewers and more. It's a chance for kids to get their hands messy (without turning mom and dad’s kitchen into chaos)! Ages 8-15. $200 per child. Registration required. Ann Arbor Cooks, 5060 Jackson Rd., Ann Arbor. 10am-1pm Monday thru Thursday. 734-645-1030. www.annarborcooks.com.

Down on the farmSuburban kids can get a taste of country life when they spend a summer Saturday at Rentschler Farm. Families will let out a collective "awww" at the cute young lambs, sheep and baby pigs, and get first-hand views of rural life on the four acres of farmland. There's plenty to explore — a farmhouse and eleven outbuildings, including a workshop, nineteenth century shed, hog house, sheep barn, ice house and windmill. Visitors can observe the many artifacts from historical farming (living the old-fashioned way is less simple than it sounds), and learn about how truly innovative farmers were at the time. The Farm Museum is open every Saturday through December; outbuildings and farm animals only open through September. Free. 11am-3pm. Rentschler Farm Museum, 1265 E. Michigan Ave., Saline. 734-769-2219. www.salinehistory.org.

Courtesy of Ann Arbor Cooks

Courtesy of Saline Celtic Festival

compiled by Allyson Rump


communitysnapshots

Making a spark at Car Carnival 2012Playing at PhysicsPalooza 2012

A fun escapeNoogieland is a

unique and welcoming play area at the Cancer Support Community of Greater Ann Arbor. Families have a great time and forge connections with others as they work their way through the cancer experience.

Putting it togetherKids from Barnes & Noble’s Imagination’s Destination Summer Reading

Program have a great time building whatever they can dream up, then creating a story about what they’ve made.

Striking sparksLocal kids never get tired of the

Ann Arbor Hands On Museum. There’s always something to look at and touch, and kids learn a few things whether they mean to or not.


Snap happyChildren’s photographer Kat Foley knows all about

the benefits of on-location portraiture, but she also knows it’s nice to have an alternative once in a while.

When planning in-home newborn portrait sessions — one of the most popular aspects of her business — she has found that many new moms and dads spend so much time cleaning and worrying about how their house looks that they can’t really enjoy the experience.

But worry no more: Foley is bringing her unique style of children’s portraiture to a brand new studio in downtown Saline.

“I still offer the children's natural outdoor experience that I have been known for, but now I have a great space to welcome clients for their newborn shoots,” Foley said.

New parents don’t need to worry about pricing, either. Foley offers newborn por-trait sessions for free for babies younger than 10 days old. “I love newborn photos and the honor of documenting a new life is the greatest honor of all,” she said. “[So] I am beyond thrilled to do that for new parents.”

And after being in business for 10 years and dreaming of opening a studio one day, Foley is beaming about the new space. “My dreams have certainly come true,” she said. "My life is good because it is filled with wonderful people with wonderful stories to tell, and I'm just the lucky one that gets to photograph it.”

Kat Foley's studio had its grand opening on May 20, and is located at 131 E. Michigan Avenue, Suite A. For more information, visit katfoleyphoto.com.

Kat Foley with her parents Jack and Mary Foley at her studio’s May 20th opening; at right, Foley’s portrait of nephew Max Foley, 6 days old, Saline

Personalized presents

Rock Paper Scissors, which opened at 216 S. Main Street (formerly the spot for 16 Hands Gallery) in June, is bringing an eclectic gift shop to Ann Arbor with the motto of “celebrate everything.”

It’s the second location for Rock Paper Scissors, which has another storefront about 30 minutes south in Tecumseh. Owner Lisa Roberts, who is originally from Ann Arbor, said she’s excited to be back in the community.

“I love the community, I love the energy and excitement and it just kind of felt like coming home,” she said. One focus of the business is on memorable, personalized invitations for all occasions, especially children’s parties, holiday cards and weddings. There’s also a colorful selection of potential presents meant to delight the receiver (like a lunchbox with chalkboard interior). “[They’re] fun gifts that make people happy,” Roberts said. “We really do pride ourselves in having something for everyone. I take so much time to find the best of the best in personalized goods.”

Rock Paper Scissors' Ann Arbor location is open Sunday through Wednesday 11am-6pm; Thurs-day 11am-8pm; Friday 10am-10pm. 734-531-6264. www.rockpaperscissorsshop.com.

Compilied by Jessica Schrader

Camping out Students with ADHD, dyslexia and autism spectrum disorders are welcome at Ann Arbor Academy's educational, weeklong, summer day camps. Students will participate in morning classes that support literature and math, along with enriching science and art classes. But there is more than just classroom academics — what is taught in the morning will be reinforced in fun afternoon activities like canoe-ing, swimming, games and field trips. The staff consists of experienced educators who aim to provide a hands-on and fun experience. Four summer sessions. July 9-13, July 16-20, July 23-27 and July 30-August 3. $350 per week. Registration required. Application online. 8:30am-3pm. Before and after camp care available for additional fee. Ann Arbor Academy, 111 E. Mosley St., Ann Arbor. 734-747-6641. www.annarboracademy.org. —AR

Sensory cinemaOnce a month, families will have the opportunity to spend a Saturday morn-

ing viewing new-to-theater, family-friendly movies at Goodrich Quality Theaters. Their

"Lights Up, Sounds Down" film experience keeps the lights bright and lets the audience determine

how high or low the volume needs to go. It’s perfect for families with children who have autism and sensory issues

— kids are even welcome to get up and walk around during the movie. The comfortable viewing environment is open for all

to enjoy. $6.75 for kids, $7.25 for adults. The PG-rated Brave will show on July 7th, and special showings can be arranged for groups of 15 or more. 10am. Quality 16 Theater, 3686 Jackson Rd., Ann Arbor. 734-623-7469. www.gqti.com/lightsup.aspx.

The summer program at Ann Arbor Academy offers both academics and fun activities, like field trips for students


advice for parents with children 10-16

Some kids run lemonade stands; 13-year-old Henry Abrams designs iPhone apps. Abrams, student by day (at Tappan Middle School) and owner of Red Sky (www.henryabrams.com) on nights and weekends, designed the addictive basketball game app “Hot Shot” (among others available at the App Store) and has discovered he’s pretty handy around a computer. Future mogul alert? (Bill Gates, take note.) Ann Arbor Family sat down with the teen to find out more.

So, you’ve already outdone yourself. What’s next?

I don’t plan to stay in the game industry that much longer. I would like to create something more beneficial to people and something that’ll have more of an impact on the world than just games.

What is a typical day like for you?

On most weekdays after school I hang out with my friends or if I have soccer practice I go straight home. Later that night I'll do my homework and try to get a little bit of programming or marketing done. But I get most of my work done on the weekends.

How do you juggle being a regular teenager with doing an adult job?

I feel like I have a pretty good ratio of programming to playing, and I try to keep it that way. Basically what I do is, instead of watching T.V. or play-ing tons of video games, I work on my own projects.

How did you get started in game development?

I've always been fascinated by technology, but I first was interested

in taking apart things. When I was 6 or 7, my elementary school was having a garage sale. I looked and found the coolest gadget there and ended up buying an old black and white TV for $5. I brought it home to my dad and told him I wanted to see what was inside of it. We took it apart. It really sparked my interest in technology.

Do you have any suggestions or advice for other kids your age who have dreams or goals they want to pursue?

The best advice that I could give a kid is to not let your age get in your way. I've had many people doubt me because I am a minor, and there are a few legal issues, but for the most part I haven't let it stop me.

What's it like having this type of success at a young age?

Having success at this age just drives me to continue to succeed. Every time I create a game that does well, I think of how to make the next one better.

What do you think is the best app for kids your age?

I'm a huge fan of sports games, so I have to say that the app that I like the most is FIFA 12 from EA Sports.

How do people you work with respond when they find out your age?

Only a few people I've worked with actually know my age. For the peo-ple who do know it, I've had to work hard to gain their respect and show them that I can create games as well as adults can.

Know a tween with something to brag about? Let us know! E-mail

[email protected].

iTeenA2’s Henry Abrams, 13-year-old app designer

By Jessica Schrader

Henry Abrams is only 13, but he’s already in charge of his own app-designing company



Bringing up babyBy Nan Bauer

Whoever dreamt up the idea of babies arriving via storks was out of tune with the miracle of birth.

Every parent (or expectant parent) knows the experience is so much more wondrous, complex, intense, ecstatic, tender, and sleep-depriving than that. From the waving of the home pregnancy test wand to the moment that tiny person who’s captured your heart arrives, it’s a dizzyingly happy, fresh time. And as any new mom or dad knows, there are plenty of people with an opinion on how to handle it. (Including us!) We let the experts weigh in on all things baby in our Ann Arbor Family 2012 Maternity and Baby Guide.&Some of Ann Arbor’s best children’s photographers share their tips on making every shot count.A thousand words

An early start Portraits are great in the first 10 days, according to Trudi Lynn of Photography by Trudi Lynn; babies are still tiny, fresh and sleepy. Kat Foley agrees. “My favorite newborn photos are the ones where they’re swaddled tight, lying in mom or dad’s arms, or on a soft blanket,” she says.

Let the sun shine in Want to do your own session? Consider photographing newborns without a flash, positioning baby close to a window with bright, indirect light. The most important ingredient, according to photographer Kat Foley, may be “patience. Babies always make fun little yawns and faces, and so much personality comes through even when they are only a few days old.”

Don’t “oversharent”Local social etiquette expert Marci Raver (contemporaryetiquette.net) believes that parents should use Facebook with caution — as in holding back a bit. “Great Aunt Eloise may not be thrilled to click the YouTube button and see her new namesake enter the world head first.” Sharing happens. Even within the confines of Facebook, your pictures can be viewed, second, third, fourth-hand, etc. Be discreet.

M A T E R N I T Y A N D B A B Y G U I D E

—Photo by Kat Foley, www.katfoleyphoto.com

—Photo by Trudi Lynn, www.photographybytrudilynn.com

—Photo by Trudi Lynn, www.photographybytrudilynn.com

Portraits are great in the first 10 days ... babies are still tiny,

fresh and sleepy


U.S. News and World Report recognizes a higher degree of healing

HospitalRegion’s#1

UNIVERSITY OF TOLEDO MEDICAL CENTER NAMED

To learn more visit utmc.utoledo.edu or call 419.383.4000.

Across the nation, the standard for health care is set by university-owned medical centers.

Northwest Ohio is no different.

For its 2011-12 rankings, U.S. News & World Report has recognized The University of Toledo Medical Center for offering the most high-performing specialties in the Toledo metro area.

A Higher Degree of Healing

©2011 University of Toledo Medical Center

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UTMC049 Brand_FindlayAreaParent_11.25x12_4C.indd 1 1/3/12 12:22 PM10 • July 2012 • www.annarborfamily.com


Be preparedResearch photographers while pregnant; that way, once baby arrives, the session can be done right away. And Foley says to make sure the photographer you choose has proven experience photographing newborns. “I’ve seen many photographers lately putting newborns in precarious

Capturing the first momentsDo photo and videotape as much or as little of your baby’s birth as you want. Some photographers, including Erin Drallos of Footprints Photography, can arrange to document the entire birth in stills or footage. On D-Day, she positions herself so that she’s unobtrusive, favoring the point of view from over the mother’s shoulder and shots that focus on relationships, like the love between parents. Her most important tip? “Know your camera before you get into the delivery room. The lighting can be very tricky.”

“Research photographers while pregnant ... once the baby arrives,

the session can be done right away”

“Consider photographing newborns without a flash”

—Photo by Erin Drallos, www.footprintsphotography.com

Mater- ?What’sIn A Name

Ann Arbor parents tell us the quirky reasoning

behind their children’s monikers

Name: Eleanor“I was determined to name my daughter after a strong female figure in history, so we chose Eleanor, after Roosevelt and Aquitaine. And we liked that we had several options to shorten it.” —Christine Pilsner, consultant

Name: Oscar“I started calling my baby bump Oscar. Once we had the ultrasound and confirmed he was a boy, well, he was already named.” —Susan Campbell, photographer

Name: Moonlight“Moon, so she would attract and reflect back the light in every human she meets. Light because she carries her own bright spark that illuminates every dark corner. Although, just as often, we call her and her brother Thing 1 and Thing 2.” —Peaches Black, tutor

Names: Sakina“Sakina is Arabic for ‘tranquil.’ She was my first home birth, and I was so much more comfortable and stress-free.” —Bayyineh Muhhamad, teacher

Izabella Lazar, 7 months old, Ypsilanti, MI

Mater-ReaderBaby

—Photo by Kat Foley, photographer, www.katfoleyphoto.com


NormaN [email protected]

Want to feel as if you’re part of the art? That’s Norman Wilder’s goal. An artist for 25 years, he loves to help you discover the right theme for your nursery — from superheroes to storybooks to an entire fanciful environ-ment — and then help you execute every aspect of it. “Will it be one wall or the entire room? I’ll help you determine the best way to adapt to your windows and doors, as well as the different angles from which the painting will be viewed.” Norman works carefully within your budget and time specifications. Murals (which take from three weeks to a few months to complete) start at $775 for a one-wall storybook image.

KatheriNe [email protected]

You may have already fallen in love with a Katherine Larson painting; she’s the illustrator of a number of Sleeping Bear Press titles, including M Is for Melody. With vast experience creating over 150 murals and public art works, she works to match the age of the child with colors, shapes and subject matter that will be most stimulating. “My subject matter is always uplifting and happy; even the bugs have little smiles on their faces.” Children ages 3 and up even become a part of the painting process, whether it’s by lending a brush or simply watching. Murals start at $650 for an 8 by 10 wall.

Katie [email protected]

Babies and children love the bright, colorful creations of Ann Arbor artist Katie Halton; in fact, she counts them as some of her biggest fans and most discerning collectors. That may be because she still considers herself a kid at heart. She infuses her work with a joyful, play-ful energy that kids respond to in kind. After consulting with you on the colors and subject matter that you think will best suit your child, Katie will turn his or her nursery into a vibrant mini-gallery that delights and surprises with wild or tame animals, sea creatures, or a lively cityscape. Murals start at $250.

mary theifelswww.treetownmurals.com734-846-4455treetownmurals@gmail.com

“A baby’s room is an especially intimate place where fam-ily and baby grow and observe the world for the first time together,” says Mary Thiefels of Tree Town Murals. “I personally love to be a part of this joyful time. I believe a baby mural should inspire the child for years, by provid-ing imagery that will evoke imagination.” Mary meets with you to discuss design possibilities in a one-on-one session in order to get your ideas out and onto the wall — as a wonderful mural that your baby will love. Murals range from $350 to $750.

Wonderland WallsNorthwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan's muralists specialize in bringing childhood imagination to life on the painted walls of nurseries and children's rooms.


Hey! We’re flying!Cross-cultural bonding in the air

By Mary Helen Darah

Comedian Louis Szekely, known professionally as Louis C.K., believes that we live in a world of momentous technology that is wasted on the biggest group of unappreciative babies. I know with chemo and “mom” brain I can’t recite his sentiments verbatim, but I do my best relating Mr. Szekely’s thoughts. I tell my children on the way to the air-port, “People talk about delays. You can get from New York to California in five hours. Before, it would take thirty years, and people would die or give birth on the way. You end up getting there with an entirely new group than you started with. Now you can pretty much watch a movie, use the bathroom and you’re home.” It truly helps put things perspective.

“B.C.” (before children) flying was a completely different adventure. “B.C.” I would take reading material that I would actually delve into, wear highly inappropriate shoes and eat as-sorted “adult” munchies instead of being armed with Cheerios, fruit snacks, and apple juice.

My first major solo flight as a young adult was to Rome, Italy. I sat between two Italian men that could not speak a word of English. I fell asleep and woke up to find the man to my left stroking my hair. With his fingers still embedded in my HUGE 80s hairdo that had its own zip code, I quickly grabbed my “Learn Italian in 10 Minutes a Day” book. I soon regret-ted that before the trip I’d opened it an av-erage five minutes a week, but somehow managed to firmly say, “Tenere le mani a posto.” (Keep your hands to yourself.) At that point I thought it best that I inch my way closer to the older gentleman to my right. He was excited to show me some-thing he bought and leaned over to pro-duce a plastic bag from under his seat. He opened it to reveal a heap of crustaceans and a foul stench. It took me a moment to contemplate whether it was best to stick with the man with smelly crabs or head back to the one that could give them to me. Smelly crab man won out. I truly be-lieved that nothing could top the odor of crabs on a nine hour flight until I sat next to a woman who continually fed grapes to her pet ferret. We ended up hovering over Atlanta for three hours. You will under-stand why the little varmints ended up on my “no way in &^%$ we will ever own one of these” list.

Years later I was blessed to have the opportunity to take my children to Rome. There was a massive delay, and we had to be rerouted to Germany. After my dark-skinned, Mediterranean-looking daughter was “randomly” picked for a pat down at the security checkpoint, we boarded. Our first major priority was to sit together. I knew it wouldn’t be a prob-

lem. If someone refused to change seats, I would calmly tell them how best to deal with a preteen with severe motion sick-ness and would hand them a half-dozen “barf bags” to be on the safe side — works every time.

Hours and hours and hours later, having lost sleep, one DVD player, the contents of Lauren’s stomach (I wasn’t kidding about the motion sickness) and a boarding pass for our next flight, we ar-rived in Germany. Knowing we had six hours before our flight to Italy departed, I had grand thoughts of us seeing the sights of Munich. Instead we spent the ENTIRE time in the airport trying to get a new boarding pass. My child’s diary was not filled with images and stories of Europe that day. It read, “The people here in Germany are mean. And I counted four people who didn’t wash their hands after going to the bathroom.”

You don’t know what you’re made of until you’ve taken three children through the Atlanta airport. That being said, there is a part of flying that I LOVE. I enjoy look-ing around the plane and watching the interaction of people sitting next to each other bonding. Out in the world without turbulence, slight delays and $3 pretzels, they might pass each other by. Recently on a flight home, I watched a tattooed 6’5” gentleman with earrings protruding out of all sorts of places, showing photos of his kids to the grey-haired grandma sit-ting next to him. My girls, who get lost in their electronics on flights, always ask me why I usually end up hugging the person I’m next to. I guess I’m just lucky, and like comedian Louis C.K., I appreciate the true miracle of flight. We are sitting in a chair in the air — it’s pretty incredible. So bring on the delays and the temporary frustrations, and remember you’re head-ing toward loved ones, adventure and times remembered.

Back-to-SchoolGuidead space reservationdeadline JULY 15

Field Trip/After SchoolGuidead space reservationdeadline AUGUST 15

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An engaging advocateIvy-league educated Maria Thomas finds her calling

helping A2 kids stay healthy By Sharon GittlemanMaria Thomas has one goal in mind —

to help moms and dads raise healthy kids. Thomas, advocacy director at the University of Michigan’s C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital in Ann Arbor, helps legislators get the facts about health care by connecting them with physicians, researchers and other experts. The result? Good policy decisions that affect your child’s wellbeing.

Thomas also champions programs that improve youngsters’ health. “We want to give a voice for children,” she said. Creating broad systemic change is her objective. “One example would be for stronger child passen-ger safety legislation,” she said. Promoting better access to health care is another aim.

Parents face a number of obstacles in achieving that goal, she said.

“[The problem is] not just insurance, its transportation to help families get access,” she said. Discovering what areas Washtenaw County moms and dads think they need help with is step one in improving health care. C.S. Mott has joined with other hospi-tals and agencies to survey 2,000 people in the community every five years to get a true picture of their needs, Thomas said.

Childhood obesity and immunizations are among the concerns mentioned in the most recent survey. While Thomas offers scientific data and other information to leg-islators, she’s not a lobbyist.

“We don’t have a vested interest,” she said. “We try to make parental views heard. It could be in the form of visits to the Hill, where we take parents.”

Helping others has always been a cause close to Thomas’s heart. The daughter of a cardiologist who once practiced in Britain, Thomas lived in India and else-where around the world. After earning a degree in English literature from Oxford University and another degree in nonprofit management from Columbia University, she worked with United Nations agencies on a variety of issues related to health care.

“I wanted to be hands-on in the public sector,” Thomas said. “I think as a society we owe a greater debt to those without voices who are most vulnerable.”

One of the most important things par-ents can do to improve their youngsters’ health is to be a good example by keeping an eye on safety, eating well and staying active, Thomas said.

“It’s clearly the case that children respond to role models,” she said. Getting enough sleep, limiting time on electronic devices and reducing the number of sugary drinks are other things to consider. “Little steps can make a big difference.”

The University of Michigan C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital offers a number of programs and services for youths, moms and dads, from pediatric massage classes to Therapaws, canine-assisted therapy for young patients.

For more information about the hospital’s efforts to assist children, visit them at www.mottchildren.org.


“Where are we going for dinner?” asked my 8-year-old son.

“Classic Cup Café,” I answered.

“A cup of what?” he replied. “Coffee?”

“No, they have lots of food.”

“I know!” he persisted. “A cup of TEA!”

Classic Cup Café, located on Jackson Road on the west side of town, offers more than what can be served in a cup. My son discovered this one Friday night as he and the rest of my family settled into a worn, but comfortable, booth.

The restaurant exuded an old-school vibe, from the classic photos and old movie posters decorating the walls to the plastic cafeteria-style cups. Numerous families, most with grandma and grandpa in tow, were dining around us. The menu offered traditional fare such as chicken fried steak and patty melts. There were also appetiz-ers, soups, salads, sandwiches, and entrees, which I pointed out to my son. I wanted to make sure he realized they served more than coffee or tea.

My son tuned out my ramblings, though. That’s because he was focused on the lengthy kids menu, offering everything from pancakes to ravioli to grilled cheese. Prices ranged from $2.99 for a hot dog to $4.25 for fish and chips, drinks not included.

My son ordered a cheeseburger and fries while my 5-year-old daughter selected mac and cheese. My husband and I started with fried artichoke hearts with marinara sauce. Next, he chose the penne alla toscana pasta ($10.25) while I got the famous prime

rib (8 oz. for $11.95) with a baked potato and vegetables. The entrees included salad for him and soup for me.

Our fried artichoke hearts appetizer was light and tasty. My kids had never tried them before and found them pleasing, except for the occasional stringy leaf. Next my husband noshed on his simple garden salad while I tried the Swedish potato soup with ground beef, potatoes and carrots — delicious. The blended flavors of potato and meat made me want to come back in winter for a hot cup.

Just as the kids got bored scribbling in the restaurant’s coloring books, the main dishes arrived. My prime rib was juicy, even though it was cooked past medium to medium-well. I loved the accompanying grilled squash, zucchini, red onions and

peppers. I tasted fresh vegetables, not but-ter or sauce. Meanwhile, my husband found his pasta with Italian sausage, roasted red peppers, and mozzarella to be creamy and filling. My daughter’s portion of mac and cheese was generous and she couldn’t fin-ish it. My son practically inhaled his stan-dard — cheeseburger and fries.

The kids had been focused on dessert ever since we arrived, enticed by the dis-play case of sweet treats by the front door. My son and I split a piece of coconut cream

pie, which tasted sweet, but bland. My hus-band and daughter shared a piece of apple pie, which my husband deemed good.

Not surprisingly, Classic Cup Café offers specialty coffee drinks, but it was too warm a day for us to partake. We did feel like we indulged in a cup of comfort, though. With its casual, albeit worn, ambi-ance and varied menu, the Classic Cup Café offers classic food in a relaxed, family-friendly setting.

Katy M. Clark is a freelance writer from Saline.

Casual comfortClassic Cup Cafe's laid-back dining

by Katy M. Clark

Classic Cup Cafe4389 Jackson RoadAnn Arbor, MI 48103 Phone: 734-662-4411 Hours: Mon-Sat 6:30am-9pm; Sun 7am-8pmwww.classiccupcafe.com

THE SHORT COURSEKid-friendly YesTo avoid wait They are busiest on Friday night for their fish fry and on weekend mornings for brunch.Noise level ModerateBathroom amenities A bit rough looking, but clean, with changing tables in both rest-rooms.

High chairs YesGot milk Yes

Kids’ menu Yes

Anything healthy for kids The ravioli may be the best bet off the kids’ menu. You can order a side salad, too.Food allergy concerns They are happy to accommodate you if they can.


July 20121 SUNDAY

Maracas Rock! Make Music with the Anna Banana Band - Kids will enjoy decorating their own maracas while celebrating the fun of music! There will also be a maraca jam session led by the Anna Banana Band so kids can play with their new instruments! For ages Preschool - Grade 3. 1-2pm. Downtown Library, 343 South Fifth Ave. 734-327-4200. www.aadl.org 3 TUESDAY

Happy Birthday, America! - Celebrate Independence Day by coming out and making patriotic crafts! For ages Preschool - Grade 5. 2-3pm. Downtown Library, 343 South Fifth Ave. 734-327-4200. www.aadl.org

4 WEDNESDAY

Ann Arbor Firecracker 5K - Over 2,000 runners will participate in the 11th annual downtown July 4th Run just prior to the parade. The course winds through downtown and the University of Michigan central campus. Overall Male and Female winners will receive an apparel package from New Balance! Runners can pick up packets at the Tortoise & Hare on Plymouth Rd. 8am. $26 before July 1/$32 after. Fourth Ave & Liberty, Downtown. 734-213-1033. www.a2firecracker5k.com 22nd Annual Fourth of July Parade The parade will feature floats, walking groups, musical groups, and much more. The parade is an Ann Arbor tradition that

shouldn’t be missed! This year’s parade is also open to local children who would like to decorate their bike and ride it in the parade.10am. Free. Downtown, Ann Arbor. 734-531-9626. www.a2jaycees.org Fourth Of July Parade - Bring the family out to enjoy the annual Fourth of July Parade through downtown Ypsi and Depot Town. 9am. Cross Street, Downtown Ypsilanti. www.cityofypsilanti.com 6 FRIDAY

Kids Read Comings Opening Night! Voice Actor Neil Kaplan, the man behind characters from Transformers, Digimon, Power Rangers and more will be demon-strating expression through voice! This funny and engaging discussion and demonstra-tion might just inspire a new way to think about comics! For ages 4th grade and up. 7-8:30pm. Downtown Library, 343 South Fifth Ave. 734-327-4200. www.aadl.org 7 SATURDAY

National Unicycle Convention - NAUCC is the Unicycling Society of America’s official national championship. Events take place at several venues around Saline and include freestyle competitions, races, basketball and more. This event will be hosted by the Redford Township Unicycle Club. Visit the website for a full schedule of events and times. July 10-15. Various Locations, Saline. 248-348-9974. www.naucc2012.com

Thursday, July 26-Saturday, July 28 Enjoy the sights and sounds of Chelsea Downtown Chelsea’s premier cultural event, the Sounds & Sights Festival, will once again celebrate the region’s best art, music, and entertainment. A juried art show with a varied array of regional art will be on display in the Art Market. On Friday, the Chelsea Classic Cruisers car show will feature over 300 classic cars from across the Midwest from 3-8pm. Plus, be sure to catch the popular Pet Parade on Saturday at 9am. The Social & Entertainment Tent is home to the main stage where The Juliets, Bear Lake and The Hard Lessons play on Thursday; Whitey Morgan and the 78’s and Blue River Band play on Friday and Billy Mack & The Juke Joint Johnnies take on Sunday. And the KidsZone will have plenty of activities for children throughout the weekend. Go on-line for a full schedule of events and activities. Downtown Chelsea. 734-433-2787. www.chelseafestivals.com—JG

10 TUESDAY

Ventriloquist Vikki Gasko - This new twist on “Peter Pan” is sure to entertain the whole family! Vikki Gasko will be spin-ning the story of Hank the polar bear, who dreams of becoming a pirate. Kids will get to meet his character and more, including “Stinker Bell” the skunk! Ages preschool - grade 5. 2-3pm; 7-8pm. Downtown Library, 343 South Fifth Ave. 734-327-4200. www.aadl.org

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

Going with the Grain - Join Fly Children’s Art Center and Whole Foods Market for a fun-filled project. Children will use corn, pasta and beans of all shapes and colors as their palette, affixing them to a sticky surface to create their design. The completed designs will be finished off with a dusting of cornstarch powder, which fills in any uncovered surface, and turns the student’s works into a permanent piece of art. Registration required. 1pm-2pm. FLY Children’s Art Center, 32 North Washington St., Ypsilanti. 734-218-2145. www.flyartcenter.org Cont. on pg 18


13 FRIDAY

Saline Celtic Festival - The Saline Celtic Festival offers music and dance performances on three stages throughout the day, as well as Friday and Saturday evening performances on the Red Dragon Main Stage. There are also many events for the whole family including a 5K, dance competitions, Wee Folks Island kid’s activities and the Haggis Hurl! Friday, 5:30pm;Saturday, 9:30am. $10 adv./$15 gate. Millpond Park, 565 West Bennett St., Saline. 734-944-2810. www.salineceltic.org Rolling Sculpture Car Show - More than 400 exotic, antique, classic, concept cars on Main, Liberty, and Washington Street, in the heart of downtown. Hot Rod DJ, Surfer Joe, will be “spinning” all of your favorite, and soon to be favorite, hot rod songs throughout the show. This show also features a special “Dream Street” exhibition area including educational and race car demonstrations. 2-10pm. Downtown Ann Arbor. www.mainstreetannarbor.org Michigan Elvisfest - Well, it’s one for the money, two for the show, three to get ready, now go, cat, go… to the 12th Annual Michigan ElvisFest! Check out Elvis Tribute Artists, and other entertainers including Roy Orbison, The Blues Brothers, and Tom Jones. Kids activities will be held from 12pm-6pm. There will also be a car show on Saturday, food, and various vendors from all around Michigan. Tickets $12.50 on Friday; $22.50 on Saturday; $30 2-day tickets. Friday, 5pm-12am; Saturday, 12pm-12am. Riverside Park, 515 E. Cross St., Ypsilanti. www.mielvisfest.org

14 SATURDAY

‘Imagine a Park’ Block Party - Help envision Library Green, a park on the library lot. There’ll be fun for the whole family with music, chess, and guest speakers. Bring a picnic lunch from home or buy one from a neighborhood busi-ness. 12-5pm. Free. Public Library Lot, Downtown Library, 343 South Fifth Ave. www.a2centralpark.org Summer Photo Safari - Starting in the Critter House, join naturalist, Stefan Szumko, on a guided hike through the Black Pond Woods, the LSNC grounds, prairie, and Project Grow gardens to find wildflowers, fungus, and animals to cap-ture digitally or by using ancient film tech-nology. Bring your own cameras. 1pm. $6 adv./$8 door. $25 family adv./$30 family door. Leslie Science & Nature Center, 1831 Traver Rd. 734-997-1553. www.lesliesnc.org 14 SUNDAY

Huron River Day - For 32 years, Huron River Day has served to bring the City of Ann Arbor, Washtenaw County along with non-profits and citizens togeth-er to celebrate one of the area’s greatest natural resources and educate about the importance of water quality. Enjoy sto-rytelling, fly fishing demos, a children’s activity tent, live music from Gemini and a classic small boat show. Get there early to catch “TRI the Huron”, an adventure games triathlon from 7-9am. Canoes and kayaks will be available to rent for $5. If you ride your bike to the event, boat rent-als are free! 12-4pm. Free. Gallup Park, 3000 Fuller Rd. 734-794-6240. www.a2gov.org

Cont. from pg 17


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MONDAYs-FriDAYs Lactation Consultation, Consultant Shin Ai Shyn is available for advice, bra fittings and general info about breast and bottle feeding. Call for appointments.10am-12pm. Free. My Urban Toddler, 7025 E. Michigan Ave., Saline. 734-944-3628. www.myurbantoddler.com MONDAYs Homebirth Circles, On the second Monday of the month attend this social gathering and discussion group for families who are considering homebirth, planning a homebirth or have birthed at home. Meet the Midwives from 6:30-7:30pm. 7:30-8:30pm. Free. Center for the Childbearing Year, 722 Brooks St. 734-424-0220. www.newmoonmidwifery.com

WeDNesDAYs Parent-to-Parent, This is a free, informal drop-in group for parents. Moms, dads, infants, and toddlers all welcome!10-11:30am, Center for the Childbearing Year, 722 Brooks St. 734-663-1523. www.center4cby.com Nursing Cafe, Hang out with other breastfeeding moms and enjoy a pot of nursing tea, with professional support on hand for questions and help. Pregnant moms are welcome, too. 2-3pm. Indigo Forest, 4121 Jackson Rd. 734-994-8010. www.visitindigo.com

THUrsDAYsParent Toddler Group, This is a unique opportunity for children 12-36 months and their special adult to spend quality time together playing, working on simple art proj-ects and having a snack. Toddlers with older siblings are also welcome to join a group as space allows. 9:15-10:45am. $92. Lamaze Family Center, 2500 Packard. www.lamazefamilycenter.org

FriDAYs Breastfeeding Café, This is a free drop-in group for breastfeeding mothers and their babies, hosted by lactation consultant Barbara Robertson. Stop by for a cup of tea, some good company, baby weight checks, bra fittings, and more! 10-11:30am. Free. Center for the Childbearing Year, 722 Brooks St. 734-975-6534. www.bfcaa.com

sATUrDAYs Children’s story Time, Story time for children ages seven and under.11am. Free. Nicola’s Bookstore, 2513 Jackson Ave., 734-662-0600. www.nicolasbooks.com

super saturday storytime, Stories, songs and a simple craft for preschoolers and older children. 10:30am. Free. Ypsilanti District Library, 5577 Whittaker Rd., Ypsilanti. 734-482-4110. www.ypsilibrary.org

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 DROPPED OFF to Ann Arbor Family Press. Classifieds by the15th of the month prior to publication.

LiNe CLAssiFieDs: Only $10 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.

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: [email protected]: Sorry, NO REFUNDS given.Misprints: Credit toward future ads.

serViCesJUVENILE DIABETES PARENT SUPPORT GROUP Run by parents of diabetic children. Separate family fun functions. Guest speakers. Held every 3rd Saturday morning within Ann Arbor area. Please call for location and times. 734-995-2266

MAGICIAN/JUGGLER FOR YOUR PARTY, Holiday Shows, Cub Scout Banquets, School Assemblies. Call Zeemo today - 734-449-0999

FOr sALeMUSICAL INSTRUMENTS Clarinet, flute, violin, trumpet, trombone, amplifier, Fender guitar, $70 ea. Cello, upright bass, saxophone, french horn, drums $190 ea. Tuba, baritone, others. 1-516-377-7907

BUsiNess OPPOrTUNiTYUNLIMITED INCOME POTENTIAL FROM HOME, flexible schedule, great training and support. Have fun and make a difference. Call Marie 734-475-4607

ANNOUNCeMeNTsBECOME A PUBLISHED AUTHOR with America`s lead-ing author services company since 1920. All genres. Call Dorrance Publishing today for your FREE Author`s Guide. Call 1-888-864-9263

OUTER BANKS VACATION RENTALS 500+ Oceanfront to Soundfront, Private Pools, Hot Tubs, Pets and More. www.brindleybeach.com 1-877-642-3224

WANTiNG TO BUYCA$H FOR DIABETIC TEST STRIPS Paying up to $10 for unexpired /unopened boxes. For details call The Marketplace 24/7; 1-888-269-8091

HeALTH & WeLLNessPRENATAL, POSTNATAL, SwEDISH, AND SPORTS MASSAGE. NATIONALLY CERTIFIED. Clinic on A2’s west side. Chair or table. 17 years experience. Call Carol: 734-368-2138

FREE REIKI EBOOK Learn about distance Reiki. Get and give this gift of information and healing today. www.FreedomReikiHealing.com

HeLP WANTeDDRIVERS NEEDED TO DELIVER ANN ARBOR FAMILY PRESS to Ann Arbor and surrounding areas. Once a month, great pay. Send resume to [email protected]

reAL esTATeARIZONA BIG BEAUTIFUL LOTS $89/mo., $0-down, $0-interest. Golf course, Nat’l parks. 1 hour from Tucson Int’l Airport. Guaranteed financing. NO CREDIT CHECK. (800) 631-8164 Code 4036 www.sunsiteslandrush.com

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ADVerTisiNG iN MArKeTPLACe

storytime at the Museum - Art will come to life when student docents and UMMA staff read stories related to the art on display. All kids are welcome to respond and talk about the stories afterwards. And a short art activity will follow the reading! Ages 4-7. Parents must accompany children. Siblings welcome to join. 11am. UMMA, 525 South State St. 734-764-0395. www.umma.umich.edu 20 FRIDAY

Ann Arbor Nature school Family Camp - Come out for a fun, relaxing camping trip for parents, kids, grandparents and friends! There will be guided nature hikes, games, camping, primitive skills, nature crafts, cooking over a fire, and time to swim and play by the lake. Fee includes camping, activities and meals made with mostly organic and local food (vegetarian and gluten-free by request). July 20-22. Friday, 4pm– Sunday, 11am. $80 adult/ $40 child. Friends Lake, 1000 Long Lake Rd., Chelsea. 415-420-8966 10th Annual Teen Graffiti Art Contest - Anybody grades 6-12 can come out and make some art! All of the paint, supplies, canvases and easels will be pro-vided. Try your hand at graffiti and maybe

win a gift certificate for art supplies! 11am-1pm. Downtown Library, 343 South Fifth Ave. 734-327-4200. www.aadl.org 22 SUNDAY

Windmill Tour - Celebrate 25 continuous years of the Saline Area Historical Society with a free Windmill Tour. Ride the bus with an on-board guide, walk, run, bike, or drive to three locations within a 5-mile radius, covering windmills and their uses from 1880-2012. Additional activities include tours of a furnished caboose, visit-ing a 1950s farmhouse and farm with live animals, kids’ activities, entertainment and Kiwanis and Lions Food Wagons. The first 100 kids will get a free wind spinner. Go online to see other tour stops and pick ups. 12-5pm. Free. Railroad Depot Museum, 402 N. Ann Arbor St., Saline. 734-944-0442. www.salinehistory.org Washtenaw County 4-H Youth show Come to the Washtenaw Farm Council Grounds to see more than 700 youth exhib-its and animal projects. The projects on display range from paintings to poetry and field crops. Animal shows and contests are held throughout the week. Sunday, 11am-5:30pm; Monday, 8am-6pm; Tuesday, 8am-5pm; Wednesday, 8am-6pm, Thursday,

8am-6:30pm. Washtenaw Farm Council Grounds, 5055 Ann Arbor Saline Rd. 734-429-3145. www.ewashtenaw.org Lenawee County Fair - Celebrate Michigan’s oldest festival at the 173rd annual Lenawee County Fair. There will be quality entertainment for the whole fam-ily with outdoor and indoor vendors, 4H competitions, motorsports, midway rides and a large variety of fair food! Musical performances take place throughout the week with headlining shows by Toby Mac on July 25 at 7pm and Justin Moore with Josh Thompson on July 26 at 8pm. Visit the website for the full schedule. July 22-28. $5/9 and under free. Lenawee County Fairgrounds, 602 North Dean St., Adrian. 517-263-3007. www.lenfair.com 26 THURSDAY

Cold-Blooded Creatures - Join the Leslie Science Center staff for this animal adventure! Experience live snakes, toads, salamanders and turtles while learning more about their behavior and adaptations. For grades K-12. 3-4pm. Traverwood Branch, 3333 Traverwood Dr. 734-327-4200. www.aadl.org

28 SATURDAY

Look Mom! Drawing and Painting for Parents and Children - Have some with the family celebrating art! Families will learn to discuss the art they see, while also learning how to create some themselves. All materials included. Price includes instruc-tion for two family members. Register online. No children under five; all children must be accompanied by an adult. 1pm. $28 UMMA and AAAC members. $35 non-members. UMMA, 525 South State St. 734-764-0395. www.umma.umich.edu Not Your Typical Walking Group - Parents and kids alike can participate in this unique walk. Get the family up and moving while having the chance to have an infor-mal discussion with doctors of various spe-cialties. Physician Andrew Eisenberg, medi-cal oncologist, will be leading this walk. For people of all ages and abilities. 10-11am. Gallup Park, 3000 Fuller Rd. 734-975-2500. www.cancersupportannarbor.org


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