This is my favorite picture from our opening day. Four kids peering with fascination into the brewery. This is exactly what we hoped for when we dreamed about opening a beer garden in Ypsilanti.
Those who frequent the Corner know that there has been a bit of a hullabaloo in recent weeks regarding some "kids gone wild".
I recently discoverd some blog activity regarding signs that were posted last weekend in an effort to make sure that parents understood the need to supervise their kids at the Corner. It was never our intention to make parents feel self-conscious or to feel like second-class citizens. The signs were posted precisely because we want to continue to welcome families. At least one couple who loves the Corner has expressed sadness over a cloud of intimidation that settled in with the posting of those signs. They were kind enough to propose new language and I will be replacing the signs today.
I think the hard thing is that there really is a fine line that is difficult to precisely define. I have specifically told parents that I don't mind kids standing on the couches. That's why we bought beat up furniture. But feet on the seat is different from climbing on the backs and arms of the couches. Just like standing on a picnic bench to get a better angle on your coloring or a better view of the world is different from leaping from table to table.
In the end, the Corner really belongs as much to our regulars as is does to us. We created it for you (we'd be pretty lonely out there all by ourselves!) And if it isn't a space where you feel comfortable than we won't be successful. We invite your feedback and appreciate your support.
posted by Unknown @ 8:45 AM
7 comments
7 Comments:
Thanks for addressing this. I am a childfree adult who enjoys going out with my husband and other adults. I like kids (I'm a teacher!!) and I don't mind them being around SO LONG AS parents don't forget their "job": to parent. If you want to have kids--and bless you if you do--you need to be the parent and watch them. I find myself getting into "special ed teacher mode" and watching the kids myself, making sure they aren't getting in trouble.
I am NOT comparing my dog to a kid, but I do have a dog...we love him, but if he was a kid, he'd be "emotionally impaired" :) He's wild. I could bring him to the ABC when we sit outside there, but I don't, because I can't manage him sometimes. It hurts to leave the little guy behind, but I have to do it, for his safety and the safety and enjoyment of others. Similarly, people need to make these tough choices when they choose to be a parent.
It's too bad that people felt like "second class citizens" as I'm sure that was not the intention of the signs. I personally don't think it's too much to ask that people a) manage their kids or b) leave them with a sitter (like my parents did).
Thanks for addressing this, Rene and Matt!!!!!! You rock!
Hey there. Thanks for addressing this - and for taking time to explain what was going on.
I have no kids of my own. But one of the greatest things about the space that you have created is that it's a "local", a place where you run into your neighbors - and their families. Something that vanished from American days, with Prohibition.
I can't think of many establishments that are breweries that have such an open policy for allowing children.
And while I don't have kids myself, I have friends that do. Having a non-smoking, cozy, fun and social environment that you guys provide - is a welcomed and needed outlet. I know that the kid-having friends of mine appreciate it!
Parents, I just ask you to be aware of this treasure we have in our own backyard - and to make sure that you're doing all you can to ensure that kids, and all others - continue to have a great time, and to be welcomed at CB with open arms.
We take our kids to Corner all of the time. I saw the signs that were posted and they didn't bother me in the least . . . I've seen how some of the kids behave at times. I also agree that parents need to keep an eye on their children while they're there -- no question. Our kids are a part of our lives and we're not going to get a sitter every time we want to go out for a beer (uhh . . . we'd never see them!) It's SO nice to have such a wonderful place to go that is close to our home. And we also benefit by teaching our children valuable lessons of being courteous to other people's property and how to behave in social situations. If we never take them out, how are they going to learn? I understand how annoying an unruly kid can be when you're out trying to relax and have fun . . . I don't like it either. Which is why we do our best to teach our kids how to behave while we're there. (I just wanted to offer a parent's perspective - we're not all bad I hope!) ;-) THANKS Matt and Rene for giving us the opportunity -- both at Corner and ABC.
As a parent and now a grandparent, I feel compelled to throw my two cents in. I LOVE the beer garden. It is so refreshing on a beautiful day to sit a fenced in area away from the street, almost like many back yards. What other business in this area can we enjoy this feeling. Most times you have to sit at street side with vehicles nearby and pedestrians strolling through. This very relaxed atmosphere is something I never want to lose. I this day of legal problems regarding injury and damage, I would ask anyone who is "offended" to ask themselves what other business would allow ANYBODY, child or adult to climb on trees, jump off tables or throw rocks. Please let's do whatever we can to keep this area around for years and years to come.
As a parent and a regular, I can not say enough good things about the Corner. Even the dialouge that has arisen as a result of "the signs" is great! I am so happy to hear people in a respectful and rational discussion about how to be together in a way that benifits everyone - real community is built on just that kind of thing. It is the sense of community that brought us back to Ypsi from Ann Arbor a few years ago, and we're so grateful for places like the Corner Brewery that bring people of all ages and walks of life together in a relaxed and safe environment - fostering that sense of community. (all that and a wicked good beer!)
speaking of beer; a toast! (or 5)
to Matt and Rene for providing such a great hangout!
to caring and attentive parents who share the livley-ness of their children!
to people without children who are so, SO respectful of families!
to the aforementioned stellar beer!
to community!
to Ypsi!
(If I'm getting carried away, feel free to blame it on the alt!)
This comment has been removed by the author.
Oops--I posted before I finished my thought. :)
Allen brings up a good point about liability and lawsuits (I used to practice law, in fact). Thanks for bringing it up in a respectful manner--good point!
Things have gotten MUCH better, IMHO. I still say that parents need to manage their kids (it sounds like Kathy W tries to do that--kudos) or get a sitter. I sincerely hope that no one was bothered by my suggestion to get a sitter, as there are just some places that are not appropriate for children. As a childfree adult, I have found it very difficult to discuss many issues with childed people because folks on both sides overreact, everyone thinks you are slamming their way of life, and things get out of hand. Therefore, I want to second AWM's comments (not carried away at all!!!) and thank everyone for being respectful and not thinking anyone is disrespecting your choices.
Again, things have gotten MUCH better! Thanks to everyone for making this happen :)
Post a Comment
<< Home