Central New York Magazine - July/August 2020

T H E

G O O D

L I F E

SCENIC DRIVES

CNY SHOWS HEART DURING CRISIS GET AWAY: AREA SHOPS APPEAL TO OUR WANDERLUST

+

RETURN OF THE VICTORY GARDEN

R en ee

an d

bR it te R R iv eR st o ne H al

Expect the best.

Even for the unexpected.

Crouse Health’s family-centered maternity care goes beyond the expected when you’re expecting.

Not just during delivery, but before and after.

Just ask Renee and Ray Halbritter, who credit Crouse for saving their son Riverstone’s life after he was born three months early.

More OB physicians and midwives deliver more babies at Crouse than any other upstate New York hospital. And our Neonatal Intensive Care Unit is the highest level center in the region for complicated pregnancies, deliveries and specialized newborn care.

Thankfully, most births go as planned. But it’s reassuring to know our resources are right here if needed.

For the health of both you and your baby, choose a doctor who delivers at Crouse.

Learn more at crouse.org/babies

CROUSE

Kienzle Family Maternity Center

S9603066-01

www.RomaTileny.com

Enjoy your Home Inside & Out! From the Largest Collection of Imported Quartz and Granite in Central New York

When it comes to remodeling your home, our design team utilizes modern cutting and buffing machinery to create and finish your job!

Visit us online at romatileny.com or our showroom at the Corner of Wolf & Park St. Syracuse

QUARTZ AND GRANITE COUNTERTOPS AND TILE

S9369522-01

www.romatileny.com

Corner of Wolf & Park St. Syracuse | 315-471-7856 | Mon, Wed, Fri 8-5; Tues, Thur 8-6; Sat 8-3

PRESIDENT Tim Kennedy ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER OF THE GOOD LIFE Annette Peters 315-282-8527 apeters@advancemediany.com SENIOR DIRECTOR OF MARKETING Lindsay Marlenga lmarlenga@advancemediany.com

EDITOR MJ Kravec 315-766-7833 mkravec@advancemediany.com ASSISTANT CONTENT EDITOR Amy Bleier Long 315-470-2146 ableierlong@advancemediany.com

MAGAZINE/EVENTS SALES MANAGER Jennifer K. Queri 315-282-8622 jqueri@advancemediany.com

CIRCULATION DIRECTOR Thomas H. Brown 315-470-2053 tbrown@acssyr.com CUSTOMER SERVICE 315-470-6397

DESIGNER Sean McKeown-Young smckeown@advance.net

The Good Life, Central New York Magazine (ISSN 1931-194X) is published six times a year by Advance Media New York, 220 S. Warren St., Syracuse, New York 13202. The Post-Standard © 2020.

All material submitted to Central New York Magazine becomes the property of Advance Media New York, publishers of The Post-Standard and Central New York Magazine. It will not be returned. Such a submission, to name a few examples, may be a letter to the editor, a cartoon, a picture, a poem and the like. Any such material may be excerpted, edited for length or content, and may be published or used in any other way. For example, on Syracuse.com or in The Post-Standard.

CORTLAND COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY

HARTLEYS

Telling Your Stories Since 1925

Come walk through history with us!

Brockway Trucks  Local History Trains  Military Memorabilia Vintage Tractors and More!

Three Unique Museums ~ One Price!

We offer a Spacious and Clean Family Friendly Facility!

If you like, bring your Lunch and Enjoy our Outdoor Space or the Café Groups Welcome

by Appointment Planning a Function?

Ask about our Rental Spaces & Rates OPEN: Tuesday - Saturday 10:00 - 5:00 Ask about Sunday & Holiday Hours Visit Our Website for Event Listings

4386 US Route 11  Cortland, NY 607-299-4185 www.cnylivinghistory.org Halfway between Syracuse & Binghamton 1/2 mile off I-81, exit 12 - Route 11 South S9630571-01

4

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

J U LY/A U G U S T

Your hometown source for genealogy and local history research!

S9613968-02

A Hidden Gem in Central New York

Auto & RV Center

James Suggett House Museum Kellogg Memorial Research Center Gift Shop

Temporarily Closed We are providing remote research services.

25 Homer Ave. Cortland, NY 13045 (607) 756-6071 cortlandhistory.org info@cortlandhistory.org

www.CortlandRV.com 3830 US Route 11 Cortland | 607-756-5302

S9446451-01 tories Since 1925

T

hank you

to Syracuse Press Club, our readers and advertisers for their support in helping us shine a light on the good life in Central New York.

We’d like to hear from you. What would you like to see more of in Central New York magazine?

Drop us a line at mkravec@advancemediany.com or ableierlong@advancemediany.com.

— MJ and Amy

2020 Syracuse Press Club’s Annual Professional Recognition Awards BEST MAGAZINE, OVERALL PRINT CATEGORY T H E

M A R C H / A P R I L

2 0 1 9

G O O D

L I F E

T H E

M A G A Z I N E

G O O D

L I F E

M A Y / J U N E

2 0 1 9

refresh & renew How to move more, cut clutter and create calm PLUS: NATURAL ACCENTS FROM CNY SHOPS, A LIGHT, BRIGHT HOME IN DEWITT AND BEST LAWYERS

8 WAYS TO SAVOR THE SEASON FRESH FINDS FROM CNY SHOPS

FIRST PLACE March/April 2019

SECOND PLACE May/June 2019 S9628178-01

Editor’s Letter

To sunnier days

Editor’s picks

A N D A G R O W I N G A P P R E C I AT I O N F O R L I F E ’ S L I T T L E P L E A S U R E S

BRACE YOURSELF

A threaded ankle bracelet is just the thing to highlight your at-home pedicure.

Homemade and in beachy colors, its summery vibe takes you to the beach no matter how far away it seems.

In the spirit of summer escapism, we peruse

“Keep your face to the sunshine and

area shops for items that appeal to our wan-

you cannot see a shadow.”

derlust. We also round up easy local daytrips

It’s an appropriate thought for Central

and scenic routes, and explore some options

New York — weather and all. Sure, we

for drive-by scavenger hunting.

get our fair share of cloudy days, but

In other features, we’re highlighting area

I like to think the hearts and minds

podcasters, spotlighting a few recipes for

of our people make up for it.

gourmet campfire food, looking into the re-

Looking back at these past months, Central

newed interest in victory gardens and check-

New Yorkers have shown again and again

ing in with how local artists are coping with

how they rose to challenges, reinvented

the pandemic.

themselves and their businesses, paid trib-

All good things that show the beauty, strength

ute to front line workers, supported their

and spirit of Central New York. We’re proud

neighbors and more.

to call you home.

SIGN IT

Add some humor to the garden with homemade signs and sayings. Some verbiage we’re loving: “We got the beet,” “Peas on earth” and “It’s about thyme.” If you need anymore, lettuce know. Wink.

In the July/August issue, we reflect on the kindness of so many in CNY with a look back

Cheers.

SWEET AND SPICY

at those who gave what they could during tough times. This special feature is brought to you by the advertisers in this issue, who give us the support we need to spotlight all

MJ

the good our people, businesses and area

mkravec@advancemediany.com 315-766-7833

have to offer.

6

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

J U LY/A U G U S T

We love this idea from Pastabilities. Top grilled local sweet corn with Pasta’s Daily Spicy Hot Tomato Oil and sprinkle with goat cheese. Find more ideas at hottom.com.

HOT TOM OIL PHOTO BY BRENNA MERRITT

I

like this quote from Helen Keller:

S9414062-04

Contents Features

25

Take Me Away

Area shops appeal to our wanderlust.

35

Fun Drive

Adventure awaits in every direction.

44

Road Trippin’

CNY scavenger hunts: driveable psychedelic and insightful surprises.

56

Fireside Fare

Glamping destination lets guests immerse themselves in nature while enjoying culinary treasures.

59

‘Cast Away

Two dozen locally produced podcasts that have us talking.

67

44

Reflections

How Central New Yorkers stepped up to help during the pandemic.

8

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

J U LY/A U G U S T

Departments 6 Editor’s Letter 11 It’s All Good

What to savor in CNY now...

A Good Feeling, Behind the Scenes, Caught Doing Good.

22 The Seen

A pictorial review of Central New York’s socially distanced gatherings.

74 Our Town

Live like a local in Eastwood.

76 CNY Scout

51

Stereo Dinner creates an ultra-sensory experience with music, food and hospitality.

79 Farm to Table

Hofmann Sausage Company shares a recipe for gourmet fajita dogs.

Back to Our Roots Victory Gardens are making a comeback.

It’s not too late to start yours.

82 Art Profile

How CNY artists weathered the coronavirus storm.

88 Galleries

What’s on display in the art world.

90 Flashback

Syracuse celebrates the end of WWII.

91 Last Word

With jewelery designer turned mask maker Michelle DaRin.

25

ON THE COVER Midway Drive-in previews happier times ahead. Photo

by Alaina Potrikus.

J U LY/A U G U S T

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

9

WE WANT TO

SEE YOU HEALTHY Safety is part of our culture at St. Joseph’s Health. As the only hospital in Central New York to receive a Leapfrog ‘A’ Grade for safety, we are driven to keep our community healthy as we emerge from this challenge. Every St. Joseph’s Health location has strict measures in place to ensure the safety and comfort of every patient. As the situation evolves, we’re standing strong in our commitment to provide a higher level of care to all who walk through our doors. Our top priority is and has always been the health, trust, and safety of our community. In this period of recovery, we encourage everyone in the region to take care and trust St. Joseph’s Health to treat and advise you in any, and all, times of need.

A HIGHER LEVEL OF CARE

| higherlevelofcare.org S9594537-01

© 2020 St. Joseph’s Health. © 2020 Trinity Health. All rights reserved.

It’s All Good

One crazy summer

BY M J K R AV EC

Still social distancing?

Or at least to some degree? Don’t fret. We’re lucky to have a place where you can enjoy the simple things in life, like fresh veggies, natural landscape and backyard doings.

Here’s how to savor the best of CNY now.

J U LY/A U G U S T

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

11

It’s All Good A L L YO U H AT E R S Dandelions are your friends with medicinal benefits.

Make a dandelion-infused oil. Fill a jar with dandelion flowers (be sure they’re not treated with pesticides).

Pour in olive oil to cover. Top with a coffee filter over the jar and secure with a rubber band. Let steep in a sunny location for two weeks. Strain flowers and store in a jar. Use oil to alleviate dry, chapped skin and rub into arthritic joints for pain relief.

WA S T E N O T Got veggies you’re not sure you’re going to use in time? Save ‘em quick by pickling.

Add equal parts of vinegar and water to a jar along with 1 Tbsp. sugar, 1 Tbsp. salt, 1 Tbsp. pickling spice along with fresh garlic cloves or any other herbs you like. Store in the fridge and you’ll extend their use by months.

CUCUMBER SUMMER Relish summer bounty with a light lunch of cucumber sandwiches. Choose a hearty rye bread and spread a thin layer of herbed cream cheese. Top with thin slices of cucumber. Cut off the crusts (save for the birds) and slice into triangles.

12

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

J U LY/A U G U S T

L ACE UP With Queen Anne’s Lace in abundance in CNY fields, gather as much as you can and create a mammoth flower display. Place on an outdoor picnic table or a dining room table for an impactful display of one of the season’s most underappreciated gifts.

MARKET MUST Skip the plastic bags at the market and bring your own reusable mesh bags. These eco friendly bags are the perfect accompaniment to the farmers market.

Go to ecobags.com

GLAMP OUT Get creative and try glamping in your own backyard. Even if it’s just with the family.

Set up a tent or canopy of blankets, add Oriental rugs, as many plush pillows as you can find, several blankets, battery-operated candles and lanterns, string lights or even a chandelier. Bring a laptop to watch movies on a mini screen and serve gourmet campfire food. See inside this issue for ideas.

SQUASH IT Too much zucchini? Save some for later. Shred extra squash in a food processor and store in plastic bags in the freezer. Come September, you’ll have plenty of squash to make warm and spicy zucchini bread and muffins.

JUMP IN When the weather’s unbearably hot, take a short trip out to Fillmore Glen State Park in the Finger Lakes. Take a cool hike through rock formations and waterfalls and end your daytrip with a refreshing jump in the park’s swimming hole. There’s a lifeguard on duty, too. Visit parks.ny.gov/parks/ fillmoreglen/details.aspx

J U LY/A U G U S T

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

13

It’s All Good A G O OD F EELI NG

One love

BY M J K R AV EC

W

e don’t need to tell you these have

boosted people’s happiness more than if they spent that money

been some trying, stressful times. But

on themselves. Another study at University of California, Riv-

in the middle of all that, there have

erside found happiness increased in subjects who were asked

been lots of people willing to help.

to do five kind acts a week for six weeks.

See our special feature in this issue

But aside from the mental benefits, there may be physical

that looks back at how Central New

benefits as well. In a 2006 study from Johns Hopkins Universi-

Yorkers reached out to help others.

ty and the University of Tennessee, researchers found that sub-

That type of outreach is in perfect

jects who offered emotional support to other people had lower

alignment with ubuntu, a Nigerian concept of universal bonds,

blood pressure than people who didn’t offer support.

connectedness to all living things and a belief that all people are of the same family, expressing kindness and compassion toward others and supporting each other.

14

Practice To practice the concept of ubuntu, consider volunteering for a

In what’s often known as a “helper’s high,” research proves

local organization or donate to a local food pantry. Even talking

that helping others has mental health benefits. Studies by the

over problems with someone else and offering emotional sup-

Harvard Business School found that donating money to others

port embodies the spirit of ubuntu.

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

J U LY/A U G U S T

GRATEFUL

TO OUR COMMUNITY

We are grateful to our community for trusting in our ability to meet the challenge of COVID-19 and for supporting our staff so we can remain

UPSTATE STRONG.

education l health care l research

S9531092-01

It’s All Good BEH I N D T H E SCEN E S

All Shook Up

BY M J K R AV EC

T

he show had a fitting name for what was about to happen to Broadway performers Andrea Dotto and her fiancé.

Dotto, a Manlius native, and Brendan Malafronte were performing in the ensemble of the musical “All Shook Up”

at Westchester Broadway Theatre in Elmsford, N.Y. Then one week after the show opened in March, the coronavirus turned the lights out on Broadway.

16

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

J U LY/A U G U S T

“Westchester was so badly hit, so we were sensing we were going to be closed. We had a week of previews, so we opened on a Thursday and closed on a Thursday,” says Dotto. “My dad picked us up and brought us home to Manlius. We thought it would be two weeks and it ended up being six months.”

The pair would also have to postpone their wedding, which was supposed to take place in July.

“Now we’re getting married in October,” she says.

But that end was the beginning of something else. Despite Broadway going dark and wedding plans being postponed, Dotto and Malafronte found a silver lining and created Dusty & Dott, a new YouTube show for children that also serves as a virtual babysitter for its subscribers. The live interactive show features storytelling, activities, dance parties and even simple lessons, like how to tap dance.

“There are brands and businesses coming out of this time. We’re all fragile in a way and sensitive, and it’s really making us create some interesting things,” says Dotto.

After being featured in Playbill and on Broadway World, the show was picked up by a virtual childcare company that provides home entertainment for families in need. Dusty & Dott also appeared on Good Morning America and CBS News.

Dotto admits that creating new content for live shows every week is a lot of work. But it’s also a welcome distraction.

“I just dove headfirst into this work. And it’s been therapeutic for me. It was clear there was something special there,” Dotto says. “Our industry is so bleak [right now].

As a Type A personality, I move fast. It’s easier to change course and find the positive and move forward.”

The idea for the show grew out of Malafronte’s work as a puppeteer and a show the couple has been producing since 2016 for The Ronald McDonald House’s in-house TV. Malafronte built Dusty five years ago and when Broadway shut down, the couple brought puppets home with them from New York City.

“We had this rapport with Dusty kind of on back burner,” Dotto says.

“There are brands and businesses coming out of this time.

We’re all fragile in a way and sensitive, and it’s really making us create some interesting things.”

They shoot the episodes on Dotto’s iPhone. Now that they’re producing live shows for Virtual Babysitters Club through Zoom, they use two cameras. Their set consists of the furniture Dotto grew up with.

“We basically created a puppet studio out of my parents’ house,” she says.

Activities featured on the show are based on the books read during storytime. In “The Monster at the End of This Book” Dusty and Dott show kids how to make monster masks out of paper plates. They also take requests from subscribers.

But in addition to the entertaining aspect, the pair try to be of some comfort to kids and Dotto says she’s reached out to friends who work in early childhood development.

PHOTOS COURTESY ANDREA DOTTO

“As much as we try to be entertaining, this [situation] must be startling for children,” she says. “We’ve done activities about breathing and mindfulness and washing hands and we try to teach them how to take care of themselves during this time.”

The couple would eventually like the show to becomes a monetary venture. But for now, being able to get people to laugh has been a fulfilling experience.

“A friend said to me: Making people smile during this time is gonna fuel you more than you know,” Dotto says. “As actors we give a story to people and give them an escape and we can’t do that in theater setting these days, but with Dusty & Dott we can, and I think it’s helping people.”

Visit their website at youtube.com/c/dustydott.

J U LY/A U G U S T

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

17

It’s All Good C AUGH T D OI NG G O OD

A spoonful of sugar

BY SUSAN KENNEDY

Donning an apron splattered in cake batter and

“One nurse I know in a COVID Unit is so stressed

buttercream frosting, Manlius baker Cyndi Kelder

and depressed all the time,” says Kelder. But when

fights the pandemic one cupcake at a time.

the nurse and her team gather around for a brief

“It’s something that’s a little indulgent when

cupcake break, “It’s a bright spot,” says Kelder.

things are uncertain,” says the owner of Mrs. Kelder’s

“I get texts of thanks from the trenches, from the

Cakes in Manlius. “Cupcakes make people smile.”

frontlines, and it means a lot.”

With the help of her regular customers, Kelder

Texts like this one from the Manlius Fire

donates and delivers dozens of cupcakes and sugar

Department: “We are here for you. Thanks for

cookies each week to those on the Coronavirus front

being there for us!”

line. Healthcare workers, firefighters, police and delivery truck drivers receive

excited! You definitely made their day.”

PHOTOS BY SUSAN KENNEDY, CYNDI KELDER

her sweet treats.

And from the VA Hospital: “Everyone was

18

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

J U LY/A U G U S T

The Waldmans are experienced family-business owners that have a donor-advised fund at the Community Foundation.

It is a scary time right now for our community, and we felt an overwhelming need to help. We hoped to bring some stability to those feeling uncertain during the current pandemic.

When the Community Foundation and its partners created the COVID-19 Community Support Fund, we directed money from our donor-advised fund to it without hesitation. This was the perfect opportunity to engage our children in our family giving while being responsive with grantmaking from our fund.

It feels good knowing that money from our fund will support nonprofit organizations working with communities who are disproportionately impacted by economic consequences of the coronavirus pandemic.

GIVING RESPONSIVELY: THE WALDMANS

See how other fundholders responded at OurFundholdersRespond.cnycf.org

315 . 4 2 2 .9 5 3 8 | C N YC F. O R G

S9368007-04

St. Joseph’s Health Nurse Practitioner Colleen Zogby on

She posts a “Help Wanted” sign on her Facebook page when

occasion brings Kelder’s treats to work. “I can see who’s enduring

she needs volunteers to coordinate and deliver donated treats.

the most stress,” says Zogby. “Those cupcakes bring such a smile

Kelder says her donated treats always find a home.

Kelder’s sugar cookies with smiley faces now have frosting masks, making the new normal a little less scary — even cute.

years ago. “I don’t want to say no to people!”

Does Zogby indulge? “I ran seven miles this morning so I can

The married mother of three children ages 8, 12 and 14 has

enjoy those things!” she laughs. Zogby says she and fellow

her own pandemic-induced stressors. Her husband is working

healthcare workers are “overcome with the generosity of peo-

from home and managing the kids, while Kelder tries to keep

ple and how well they’ve been treated and thanked.”

her small business afloat putting in 12 to 16-hour days. “I tell

Kelder donates cupcakes and cookies leftover at the end of

my kids, ‘don’t look at what we don’t have.’ They often don’t

the day. And when someone calls to order sweets to give away,

have a mama now,” because Kelder is at her cake shop. “Look

she’ll increase or even double that order at no extra charge.

at what we do have. We have so much.”

Each batch gets marked with a personalized note.

“People want to help. They don’t know what to do, and this is a way to give thanks.” tination during a pandemic is more difficult. “You can’t just walk into an ER right now,” says Kelder.

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

“From the second I opened the doors (of the bakery) I’ve been overwhelmed in a good way,” says Kelder. Now that healthcare workers are overwhelmed, Kelder knows butter, flour and frost-

Making cupcakes is the easy part. Getting them to their des-

20

But giving away treats is nothing new for Kelder. She’s been donating extra cupcakes since she opened her bakery seven

J U LY/A U G U S T

ing can help them as they help her.

“At the end of a bad day, I just sit down with a cupcake and realize things will be okay.”

PHOTOS COURTESY CROUSE HEALTH, MRS. KELDER’S CAKES

and the masked cookies are beloved.”

This is the place for you. Imagine hundreds of exceptional bath, kitchen and lighting products from trusted brands, in settings that help you envision them in your own home. You’ll find classic styles alongside the newest trends. A friendly, accessible staff offers guidance and detailed coordination to ensure that your project goes smoothly.

SYRACUSE, NY 6792 Townline Road

S9478938-03

Find details and hours for more than 40 showrooms at frankwebb.com.

The Seen ARLINGTON ACRES MOVIE NIGHT 5.23 About 100 carloads of people showed up for a pop-up drive-in movie at Arlington Acres in LaFayette. Arlington Acres typically hosts weddings and other events, but the coronavirus put that part of its business on hold. “We were thinking about how we could use our 100 acres to bring something to the community and we thought of a drive-in movie,” owner Katie Jerome says. Initially, Arlington Acres was working with Nomad Cinemas to put on the movie night, but Nomad Cinemas backed out.

Jerome’s brother, who works for United Radio, stepped in with an FM transmitter and a friend got a projector to put the movie on the side of a barn. At around 9 p.m., “The Goonies” began playing on the screen.

1

1 . Children watch “The Goonies” in the back of their car at Arlington Acres.

22

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

J U LY/A U G U S T

2

2 . Mya Bregande, 9, settles in

to watch the movie in the back of her parents truck.

3. The showing was

limited to 100 cars.

3

5

4

4. Katie Jerome throws

out a box of Junior Mints to a young boy at Arlington Acres.

5. A makeshift movie screen PHOTOS BY N. SCOTT TRIMBLE

adorns the barn.

J U LY/A U G U S T

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

23

The Seen

NURSES BROUGHT HOPE TO LONG ISLAND OUTBREAK 4.9 There were 22 nurses at Upstate University Hospital who volunteered to help fight an outbreak of the novel coronavirus on Long Island. They exited Syracuse in a triumphant caravan, cheered on by scores of their colleagues, supporters and fellow essential workers. A surge in virus cases downstate had overwhelmed hospitals, leading to a shortage of healthcare workers and resources. State and federal governments mobilized to set up makeshift hospitals and import critical supplies. That included a shipment of nurses from Central New York. — Chris Baker, syracuse.com

24

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

PHOTOS BY DENNIS NETT

Nurses made the drive to Long Island where they spent weeks treating COVID-19 patients at a makeshift hospital at SUNY Stony Brook.

J U LY/A U G U S T

Take me away...

PHOTO BY ALICE G. PATTERSON

BY AMY BLEIER LONG

|

PHOTOS BY AMELIA BEAMISH

AFTER THE LAST FEW MONTHS, EVERYONE COULD PROBABLY USE A BIT OF AN ESCAPE. SO WHETHER YOU’RE GOING ON A VACATION, REMEMBERING A PAST TRIP FONDLY OR DREAMING ABOUT YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE, THESE FINDS WILL HELP YOU GET LOST.

Packing Planner, $16, Annie Taylor Design for The Small Town Stylist, annietaylordesign.com.

J U LY/A U G U S T

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

25

GLOBAL GLOW

JOE TO GO

Rainbow Atlas, $30, Drooz + Company, 36 E. Genesee Street, Skaneateles, 315-920-8888, droozandcompany.com.

Handmade ceramic travel mug with lid, $34, Mixed Methods.

COMPREHENSIVE CUISINE Mexico: The Cookbook, $49.95, Drooz + Company.

T R AV E L C O M PA N I O N Wanderlust journal, $34.99, Metro Home Style, 689 N. Clinton Street, Syracuse, 315-420-2335, metrohomestyle.net.

BAUBLE B OX Luxe jewelry cube, $49, Paola Kay Gifts, 105 Brooklea Drive, Fayetteville, 315-632-2192.

26

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

S TAY I N ’ A L I V E Survival-List Bandana, $16, Drooz + Company.

J U LY/A U G U S T

A TOSS UP Mango wood salad servers with enamel handles, $27.99, The Station 603, 603 E. Seneca Street, Manlius, 315-682-8741.

ANIMAL MAGNETISM Zebra vessel, $110, Fringed Benefits, 6825 E. Genesee Street, DeWitt, 315-802-4353, fringedbenefitsdesign.com.

WILD IDEAS

R O A D L E S S T R AV E L E D

Rocky Mountain National Park Memo Books, $12.95 for pack of three, Mixed Methods, 215 E. Water Street Rear, Syracuse, 315-399-1766, letsgetmixed.com.

Go Your Own Way plaque, $45, Paola Kay Gifts.

J U LY/A U G U S T

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

27

T H AT ’ S S O M E TA L Americana wall decor, $165, Fringed Benefits.

FRENCH ACCENT Ooh La La bathmat, $36, Fringed Benefits.

GO WEST Carved and glazed ceramic mugs, $28 each, Tina Parker at Salt City Artisans, 226 Hawley Avenue, Syracuse, 315479-0400, saltcityartisans.com.

LONDON CALLING London pillow, $178, Nest58, 58 E. Genesee Street, Skaneateles, 315-685-5888, nest58.com.

G O T TA T E R R A C O T TA Florentine terracotta planter from Italy, $25.99, The Station 603.

S T O W AWAY Lawrence Dock Bag, $55, Sea Culture, 3 W. Genesee Street, Skaneateles, seaculturebrand.com.

28

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

J U LY/A U G U S T

CL ASSIC CUBA Acrylic on canvas, $285 for 8-inch by 16-inch size, Richell Castellon at Gallery 54, 54 E. Genesee Street, Skaneateles, 315-685-5470, gallery54cny.com.

UNDER THE SEA Seashell Platter, $109, Terry Askey-Cole at Gallery 54.

  G O I N G M Y WAY



Rumi saying bowl, $30, Soul Talk Art at Salt City Artisans.



TICKET TO RIDE Antique baggage tag art, 13.5-inch by 29.5-inch, $249, Fringed Benefits.

GONE TO THE DOGS Messy Mutts collapsible travel bowl, $10, Lucky Dogs, 22 Jordan Street, Skaneateles, 315-663-5579, luckydogsservices.com.

CAMPSITE CHIC Cobalt Swirl enamelware tray, $32, and Happy Camper kitchen towel, $18, Nest 58.

J U LY/A U G U S T

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

29

D R Y H E AT

CAPE BOD

Desert Blossom 9-ounce soy candle, $30, Forge Co., etsy. com/shop/ forgecandleco.

Effie’s Heart vintagestyle Daydream dress in Langostino print, $98, Lillie Bean, 57 Albany Street, Cazenovia, 315-655-0677.

KEEP CALM Head & Heal CBD oil, $45 for 600 mg, $77 for 1200 mg, $120 for 2400 mg, 20|East, 85 Albany Street, Cazenovia, 315-815-4540, 20-east.com.

DU FF LOVE Vera Bradley Iconic Large Travel Duffel in Cloud Vine, $100, Village Choices, 12 E. Genesee Street, Suite 2, Skaneateles, 315-685-1018.

COVER STO RY Graphic cape, $19.99, The Rose Cottage, 214 S. Manlius Street, Fayetteville, 315-637-1330, therosecottageny. com.

HAPPY FEET Lightweight waterproof Birkenstock Arizona Beetroot Purple EVA, $44.95, J Michael, 173 Marshall Street, Syracuse, 315-471-4237, jmichaelshoes.com.

30

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

J U LY/A U G U S T

GOT IT COVERED Passport cover, $18, and luggage tag, $12, Nest 58.

TA K E U GANDA T E A S T H E D AY

African robe, $110, Ride 4 A Woman Designs for Drooz, Drooz + Company.

Taylors of Harrogate English tea, $5.95 for pack of 20 teabags, Rhubarb Kitchen and Garden, 59 E. Genesee Street, Skaneateles, 315-685-5803.

SILK STYLE

PAT C H T H I N G S U P

Upcycled kimono scarf, $39, Ginny Spina of Silk House Designs at Salt City Artisans.

Your Journey Indigo Weekender bag with recycled denim patchwork, $80, Colorful Inspirations, 170 Township Blvd., Camillus, 315-320-4363, colorfulinspirations.com.

J U LY/A U G U S T

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

31

S U M M I T I T U P N I C E LY “Let’s go on an adventure” watercolor painting with frame, from $20 for mini size, Tree Forts and Fireflies, treefortsandfireflies.com.

WINNING S I LV E R Hand-etched sterling silver necklace with amethyst, $225, and earrings, $145, both Donna Smith at Gallery 54.

NOMADS LAND American Nomad ringer tee, $32, The Local Branch, 4 Jordan Street, Skaneateles, thelocalbranch.co.

SAFE KEEPING RFID-blocking wallet, $29, Dazzle.

CARRY O N PITCHER PERFECT Journey pitcher, $72, Sookie Kayne at Gallery 54.

32

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

J U LY/A U G U S T

Vegan leather RFID-blocking London backpack, $98, Dazzle, 119 W. Seneca Street, Manlius, 315682-7499, thedazzlestore.com.

SURREAL LIFE “Frida” cuff bracelet with turquoise, $329, Dana Stenson at Gallery 54.

COPPER’S TOPS Copper leatherwrapped bottle, $60, The Local Branch.

B E A C H D AY B A G Pocket Rocket tote in Namastay at the Beach, $49.50, Synple, 70 Main Street, Camillus, 585-615-3934, shopsynple.com.

POWDER POWER Lulu’s Organics travel-size hair powder in patchouli & amber, $12, The Local Branch.

OH SUZANI Embroidered Suzani pillow, $88, Fringed Benefits.

J U LY/A U G U S T

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

33

Year-Round Year-Round Year-Round River ViewRiver Dining View Dining River View Dining

Join us for Join World-Class us for World-Class Dining & Dining watch the & watch Shipsthe Go By! Ships Go By! Join us for World-Class Dining & watch the Ships Go By! 38289 NYS ROUTE 12E, NYS CLAYTON NY 13624 | SAINTLAWRENCECHATEAU.COM | 315.285.5224 | 315.285.5224 38289 ROUTE 12E, CLAYTON NY 13624 | SAINTLAWRENCECHATEAU.COM

38289 NYS ROUTE 12E, CLAYTON NY 13624 | SAINTLAWRENCECHATEAU.COM | 315.285.5224 Saint Lawrence Spirits Saint Lawrence Spirits

Saint Lawrence Spirits

2019

YEAR CLAYTON, NEW YORK

Distillery Of The

YEAR

2019

Of The

2019

Distillery Of The Distillery YEAR

CLAYTON, NEW YORK

S9476828-01

CLAYTON, NEW YORK

Distillery Distillery Experience Experience Downtown Tasting Room Downtown Tasting Room Come see where Comethe see magic wherehappens the magic happen Distillery Experience Tasting Room 510 Downtown Riverside510 Drive | Clayton, NY 13624 Riverside Drive | Clayton, NY 13624 38289 NYS Route 38289 12E NYS | Clayton, Route 12E NY |13624 Clayton, NY 1362 Come see where the magic happens

510 Riverside Drive | Clayton, NY 13624

38289 NYS Route 12E | Clayton, NY 13624

I N CN Y, A DV E NT U RE AWAIT S I N E V E RY D I REC TI O N

Fun Drive PHOTO BY ALAINA POTRIKUS

BY ALAINA POTRIKUS

A scenic drive is the ultimate summertime activity for many in Central New York. This year hit the road for a new adventure or a favorite family destination. Upstate N.Y. businesses — from restaurants and retail to tourist attractions and local landmarks — are making every effort to make sure your trip will be worthwhile, memorable and safe.

J U LY/A U G U S T

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

35

North RUDY’S LAKESIDE DRIVE-IN The 74-year-old Oswego restaurant has added online ordering and a takeout menu to allow longtime customers to safely enjoy the panoramic views of Lake Ontario. Enjoy your fish and chips, Texas hots and other favorites from your tailgate, find a spot on the rocky shore or stake out a picnic table, now spaced further apart for appropriate social distancing. Stone skipping, kayak launching and sunset watching encouraged. After dinner, drive the back roads to the Midway Drive-In Theatre in Minetto, which started its 72nd consecutive season in June.

SACKETS HARBOR History buffs will enjoy the Sackets Harbor Battlefield State Historic Site, where two crucial battles of the War of 1812 took place overlooking Lake Ontario in Jefferson County.

Families can reserve tickets for Old McDonald’s Farm, which has shifted its operation to a walk-through tour where kids can feed the cows, goats and pigs. Outdoor lakeside dining is planned at 1812 Brewing Co., and Strader’s Saturdays, Sundaes and More is open for takeout frozen treats along with weekly lunch and dinner specials served from a food truck.

CLAYTON The summer retreat in the Thousand Islands region strikes a balance between quaint and chic. While some restaurants and shops have been local favorites for decades, recent development in Clayton has brought new life to the St. Lawrence Seaway community. The Antique Boat Museum is making plans to safely welcome visitors to its campus, home to 300 well-preserved boats and thousands of recreational boating artifacts. Wine cruises will continue to take off from Coyote Moon on the River; 1000 Islands Harbor Hotel offers outside dining on its patio overlooking the water. Before you leave, pick up some 1000 Islands River Rat Cheese to bring home; the brand’s James Street shop also offers sweets and other souvenirs.

36

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

J U LY/A U G U S T

Guests Michelle and Maria sip drinks on the deck of Sackets Harbor Brewing Company.

J U LY/A U G U S T

FRINK PARK PHOTO BY GARY WALTS, ANTIQUE BOAT MUSEUM PHOTO BY DICK BLUME

Top, Frink Park, Riverside Drive in Clayton.

Above, Canoes and small sailing boats are among the more than 300 boats on display at the Antique Boat Museum in Clayton. Left, Sailing off into the sunset on Lake Ontario.

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

37

38

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

J U LY/A U G U S T

South LABRADOR HOLLOW The Labrador Hollow Unique area, located on the border of Onondaga and Cortland counties, covers 1,474 acres and offers hiking, fishing and boating opportunities. A raised wooden boardwalk crosses the wetlands area to a fishing pier and non-motorized boat launch on Labrador Pond.

A beginner’s gravel trail will take you to Tinker Falls, a 50foot waterfall surrounded by a natural rock amphitheater.

A steeper, more advanced trail will take hikers up to the North County Trail overlook for panoramic views.

BEAK AND SKIFF APPLE ORCHARDS The agritourism destination in Lafayette has shifted its summer plans to include drive-in movie nights on its Apple Hill Campus throughout the month of July, with pre-ordered tickets and food and drink options. Curbside pickup of 1911 Established ciders, spirits and wines — along with their brand of hand sanitizer — continue to be available as the distillery waits for the green light to open its tasting room.

ITHACA With more than 150 waterfalls within 10 miles of Ithaca, you don’t have to go far for a spectacular view. Check out Taughannock Falls State Park, home to a 215-foot waterfall (three stories higher than Niagara Falls) and walk the gorge and rim trails. Robert H. Treman State Park plans to offer public swimming at the stream-fed pool beneath Enfield Falls; nine miles of trails follow the gorge past 12 waterfalls, including the 115-foot Lucifer Falls. After a day of hiking, enjoy PHOTO BY ALAINA POTRIKUS

the atmosphere at the newly renovated Ithaca Commons, a four-block pedestrian area with more than 100 shops, restaurants, street vendors and street entertainers.

Left, Tinker Falls Labrador Hollow. Above right, Visitors lounge after apple picking at the Beak & Skiff Apple Hill Campus, Lafayette. Right, Taughannock Falls State Park.

J U LY/A U G U S T

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

39

West MONTEZUMA NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

SENECA FALLS

The 9,800-acre national park outside of Seneca Falls is

Step back in time with a walking tour through Seneca Falls,

home to six active bald eagles nests, with observations

which was the center of the efforts of women’s rights leaders

of nearly 60 eagles in recent years. Hiking trails are open

and other reformers in the 19th century. While some museum

from dawn to dusk, or stay in your car for the 3.5-mile

offerings may be closed, pedestrians can plan a walking route

Wildlife Drive through the preserve. Keep an eye out for

to include Wesleyan Chapel (location of the first Women’s

waterfowl, herons and other marsh birds, Canada geese,

Right’s Convention in 1848), the Waterwall at Declaration

bald eagles, osprey, harriers and other birds of prey and

Park (a 100-foot bluestone water feature inscribed with the

shorebirds. Other wildlife sightings include muskrat, white-

words of the Declaration of Sentiments), the Elizabeth Cady

tailed deer, mink, fox and coyote. Cap your visit with a trip to

Stanton House and M’Clintock House. Take a stroll past the

Montezuma Winery in Seneca Falls, offering curbside pickup

picturesque downtown Seneca Falls facades that served as

for dry to sweet wines including riesling, blueberry, rhubarb

an inspiration for “It’s a Wonderful Life” and look for the bells

and the most popular, Cranberry Bog. The winery is also

attached to the George Bailey Bridge, inspired by the movie’s

home to Hidden Marsh Distillery, which produces brandy,

iconic line, “Every time a bell rings, an angel gets its wings.”

whiskey and liqueurs from locally sourced ingredients.

SKANEATELES The Finger Lakes community draws visitors each year for the crystal clear waters of Skaneateles Lake and the charming, picturesque downtown. Sightseeing cruises of the 16-mile-long lake can be booked through Mid-Lakes Navigation for the Judge Ben Wiles, a replica steamship.

Park downtown and enjoy the historic business district, where retail stores and restaurants are open for business, and be sure to walk out on the pier for a beautiful view of the water and the surrounding landscape.

CHIMNEY BLUFFS The state park in northern Wayne County is known for its the park’s 1.25-mile Bluff Trail, visitors can view the large clay formations at the water’s edge, which stand as high as 150 feet. The cliffs were formed by glacial deposits

40

thousands of years ago; wind, rain and snow constantly

Top, Elizabeth Cady Stanton’s house on Washington

reshape the bluffs. Stop through nearby Sodus Bay on your

Street in Seneca Falls. Above, a Great egret

way home, where you can walk out on the pier at Sodus

on full display at the Montezuma National

Point Beach Park and check out the historic lighthouse.

Wildlife Refuge. Right, Chimney Bluffs.

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

J U LY/A U G U S T

PHOTO BY ALAINA POTRIKUS

unique towering bluffs along Lake Ontario’s shore. From

J U LY/A U G U S T

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

41

42

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

J U LY/A U G U S T

East HERITAGE HILL BREWHOUSE, POMPEY The Sweet Road farm-based brewery is welcoming visitors each Friday and Saturday night this summer for a panoramic sunset drive-in overlooking eight counties and three lakes — Onondaga, Oneida and Ontario. Beverages and barbecue can be ordered for carside delivery; outdoor dining and bar service is also planned for the summer.

CAZENOVIA The lakeside village in Madison County is the perfect destination for a scenic drive. Stop at the overlook parking lot near the intersection of Routes 92 and 20 for beautiful views from the lake’s southern tip, or head into the village’s Lakeside Park on East Lake Road. Order takeout from the Brewster Inn or take a stroll through the historic downtown business district. Take a drive to Stone Quarry Art Park, a 104-acre property filled with outdoor sculptures nestled along four miles of trails.

WINDMILLS Dozens of windmills dot the landscape in northern Madison County; visit the Fenner Renewable Energy Education Center to get an up-close look at a windmill blade and take a selfie with a towering turbine, which stand 328 feet tall. The public access location at 5520 Bellinger Road is surrounded by 20 windmills churning out enough electricity to power 7,800 houses.

Take Route 12B into the village of Hamilton, home of Colgate University. A farmer’s market takes over the Village Green each Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.; continue on to the Chenango Canal Towpath for a historic hike. Nearby, Good Nature Farm Brewery is planning to serve local food, beer and spirits in an outdoor beer garden, with

Top, on the Colgate Campus. Above, Village of

picnic tables spaced for appropriate social distancing.

Cazenovia. Left, Heritage Hill Farm Brewery.

J U LY/A U G U S T

PHOTOS BY ALAINA POTRIKUS

HAMILTON

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

43

E R U T P L U C S C I L B U P

01101 Location: Lemp Park Artist: Tash Taskale The sphere is made of galvanized steel binary numbers.

TECTONIC SCULPTURE 01 Location: 200 block of East Washington St. Artist: Brendan Rose The 9-foot-tall “high five” greets visitors in front of Syracuse’s City Hall Commons.

DELPHI WALT, THE “LOCH WEST MONSTER”

Location: Everson

Location: 300 block of

Museum of Art, 401

West Fayette St.

Harrison St.

Artist: Brendan Rose

Artist: Lila Katzen

The giant dragon made of steel

The large-scale abstract

plates, concrete, ceramic and

metal installation

wood overlooks the entrance

greets visitors outside

to the Onondaga Creekwalk on

the museum designed

the edge of Armory Square.

by iconic American architect I.M. Pei.

44

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

J U LY/A U G U S T

Road trippin’ CENTRAL NEW YORK IS FILLED WITH PSYCHEDELIC AND INSIGHTFUL SURPRISES – if you know where to look. Murals, sculptures, mosaics and creations unique to Syracuse are abundant.

Hunt through our area and you’ll find larger-than-life visuals, a giant high five, artistic undulations and even a monsterous dragon.

Makes that Sunday drive worth the trip. CHECK OUT OUR LIST. STORY AND PHOTOS BY ALAINA POTRIKUS

SHAWANAGA Location: Everson Museum of Art, 401 Harrison St. Artist: Robert Murray The bright red linear sculpture dominates the museum plaza.

IMMERSIVE CLOUD Location: South Townsend and East Genesee Sts. Artist: Daekwon Park The undulating group of stainless steel disks floats at the busy corner, reflecting the foliage of the surrounding trees and inviting children to climb.

LIPE ART PARK Location: 1003 West Fayette St. The public art park is located in an old rail yard along the edge of the city’s Near West Side.

J U LY/A U G U S T

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

45

S L A R U M & E R U T P L U C I L

Location: 210 Walton St.

B

Artist: Ginger Dunlap-Dietz

U

A bench and wall outside the Armory

P

S C

EUREKA CRAFTS MOSAICS

Square storefront are covered in shards of pottery, ceramics and tiles; look for the face of Greek philosopher Archimedes hidden in the pattern.

S.ALT CITY Location: 300 South Warren St. Artist: Brett Snyder and Irene Cheng The mural on the side of M. Lemp Jewelers is made up of hundreds of QR codes PUBLIC PERCUSSION

that can be scanned with a smart phone to learn more about Syracuse landmarks.

Location: Lemp Park The pocket park on the corner of

ERIE CANAL MUSEUM

East Fayette and South Warren

Location: 318 Erie Blvd. East

streets is home to a number of

The exterior of the historical

weather-resistant percussion

museum features a Locktender’s

instruments; when passersby

Garden, multiple murals depicting

pick up the mallets, the notes

life along the Erie Canal, and a

can be heard lilting throughout

bronze statue of a mule and driver.

the downtown corridor. A similar installation featuring a xylophone and tuba like wind instrument is located in Columbus Circle.

ONONDAGA PUBLIC LIBRARY MURAL Location: 327 Montgomery St. Artist: Andy Matlow and the Syracuse Art Squad The fading rainbow of geometric shapes adorns the side of the former Library Administration Building.

MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. AND FREDERICK DOUGLASS MURALS Location: South Salina and West Taylor Sts. Artist: London Ladd The pair of murals under the railroad bridge offer words of inspiration from the civil rights leader and abolitionist, who delivered speeches a century apart in Syracuse. Born a slave, Douglass was a prominent voice in the anti-slavery movement in Central New York in the mid1800s. King spoke at Syracuse University in the summer of 1961, calling on people to erase the notion of “superior and inferior” races.

YOU’VE MADE IT MULE DAYS OF SUMMER

Location: 321 West Fayette St.

Location: 318 Erie Blvd. East

Artist: Jon Bocksel

Artist: Kelly Curry

The homage to the 24-second

The six-panel mural on the facade

shot clock is part of a pair of

of the Erie Canal Museum depicts

murals atop The Penny Pub. The

what the famous water way would

16-by-13-foot murals engage

have looked like in the 1800s.

passersby both entering “You’ve Made It…”) and leaving (”…Till Next Time”) Armory Square.

J U LY/A U G U S T

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

47

S L M

U

R

A

ALWAYS ADVANCE Location: 350 West Fayette St. Artists: Josh Luke and Meredith Kasabian Located on the side of The Warehouse, the colorful art deco mural features an uplifting message — and a nod to the Smith Premier typewriter, which was invented in Syracuse.

BE YOURSELF Location: 713 East Fayette St. Artist: Ally Walker A psychedelic giraffe in sunglasses advises, “Be Yourself: Everyone Else is Taken” along one side of the exterior of XO Taco; a secondary mural featuring an umbrella surrounded by a rainbow of raindrops offers one of the city’s most Instagrammable murals.

THE SKY’S THE LIMIT Location: Corner of Harrison and Montgomery Sts. Artist: Mike Meyer Located on the curved wall of the exit ramp of the AXA parking structure, the mural mixes text with a photorealistic image of the winged figure that rises above the National Grid building.

SUMMER WAITS Location: West and Fayette Sts. Artist: Steve Powers The railroad bridges between downtown and the Near West Side got a meaningful facelift, with phrases like “Spring Comes, Summer Waits” juxtaposed with “Fall Leaves, Winter Longs.”

YELLOW FELLA Location: 214 South Geddes St. Artists: Jacob Roberts and Lesley Owens-Pelton The massive mural pays homage to the E. C. Stearns Bicycle Agency and its popular “Yellow Fellow” model which was manufactured in Syracuse in the late 1800s.

48

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

J U LY/A U G U S T

NASRENE Location: 1022 West Fayette St. Artist: Eugene Stetz Three versions of the face of Syracuse native Nasrene Shehadleh emerge from a cluster of flowers at sunset.

The massive mural was painted over the course of eight days in 2018.

CLINTON SERENADE Location: 126 North Salina St. Artists: Charles “Corky” Goss and Robert “Chip” Miller The five-story mural on the side of the NBT Bank imagines a moonlit night in the early 1900s, depicting the Erie Canal running through the heart of the city.

WE ARE THE MIGHTY SALT CITY Location: 420 East Genesee St. Artist: Cayetano Valenzuela It’s a bold declaration on the side of Access CNY’s district headquarters, across from the Fayette Firefighter’s Memorial Park. The massive emerald green piece measures 22-by-14 feet; a little seal at the bottom reads “Established: 1848.”

HEART OF SYRACUSE Location: 217 South Salina St. An early 1900s postcard shows the two-story heart painted atop the McCarthy Building; by mid-century it had been painted over. It was restored in the mid-1990s, a tribute to the bustle of the downtown district.

COLUMBUS CIRCLE MURAL Location: 264 East Onondaga St. Artist: Andy Matlow and the Syracuse Art Squad in 1980, restored by Tom Parker (2004) and Kelly Curry (2013) The turn-of-the century urban street scene includes storefronts, a streetcar and several characters in period attire.

J U LY/A U G U S T

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

49

E

CLINTON SQUARE

S

Location: Between Clinton

U

and Salina Sts.

A C

Once the intersection of the Erie and

R

a wide public plaza with a fountain

S Y

and reflecting pool. Check out the

O

dedicated in 1910 to the 12,000

T

soldiers from Onondaga County who

Oswego Canals, Clinton Square is now

Soldiers and Sailors monument,

E U

a bronze relief that commemorates the freedom of a fugitive slave.

U

N

I

War, and the Jerry Rescue sculpture,

Q

fought for the Union during the Civil

ARMORY SQUARE Location: Walton St. Home to restaurants and retail

FIVE SISTERS

establishments, Armory Square

Location: Park Ave. The five Victorian houses were built in

is named for the prominent

the late 1800s, each one crowned with a turret.

central building that was once a military munitions depot.

HANOVER SQUARE Location: East Water St. Now surrounded by restaurants, offices and loft apartments, Hanover Square was the first commercial district in Syracuse due to its proximity to the Erie Canal.

FOUR SQUARES AND A CIRCLE FRANKLIN SQUARE Location: Solar and Plum Sts. The picturesque neighborhood is known for its industrial water tower, tree-lined streets, brick sidewalks, quaint fountain and surrounding a statue of Benjamin Franklin.

24-SECOND SHOT CLOCK

ONLY IN SYRACUSE

Location: 443 South Franklin St.

GREEN OVER RED TRAFFIC LIGHT

The monument in the heart of Armory

Location: Intersection of

Square honors the rule that changed

Tompkins St. and Milton Ave.

basketball, setting a time limit for

Local Irish youths, angry that the

each possession to keep players from

“British” red appeared above

stalling the game. It was first used at

the “Irish” green, threw stones

an NBA scrimmage in 1954 at Blodgett

at the traffic light and broke the

Vocational High School in Syracuse.

red light until the city council swapped the signal in the 1920s.

50

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

J U LY/A U G U S T

PHOTOS THIS PAGE BY SYRACUSE.COM STAFF

well-maintained gardens

V I C TO RY G A R D E N S A R E M A K I N G A C O M E BAC K IT ’ S N OT TO O L AT E TO S TA R T YO U RS .

Getting back to our roots

BY M J K R AV EC

For the first time in months, we’re not afraid to get our hands dirty.

The panic buying of hand soap, sanitizer and toilet paper led to spotty panicbuying of pasta, bread, milk, eggs, meat and even kale. Worries escalated on how COVID-19 would affect the food supply and food anxiety sparked an interest in growing vegetables at home.

J U LY/A U G U S T

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

51

1918 illustration from the National War Garden Commission book.

52

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

J U LY/A U G U S T

Seed companies reported

ideal project for times like these.

skyrocketing demand. The New

Additionally, growing your own

York Times, Los Angeles Times,

vegetables can save you a little money

Forbes, Good Housekeeping and others

and maybe a few trips to the grocery store.

all touted the benefits and increased interest

But gardening also has health benefits. In 2017,

in so-called Corona victory gardens.

Preventative Medicine Reports’ examination of

The movement is based on the victory

case studies found that gardening decreased

gardens of World Wars I and II, when the

depression and anxiety in people.

government called on citizens to plant their

“I think everybody should garden” says Cox.

own vegetables in any available space —

“A, it’s really good for you [nutritionally]; B, it’s

backyards, church yards, community lands —

mentally good for you. Plus, kids are more likely

to increase food production, self-sufficiency and

to eat their vegetables when you grow them in a

promote a sense of empowerment. According to

garden.” If you’re new to the gardening scene, Cox

a recent article in the New York Times, at the end

advises checking out the free garden guides available

of WWII around 20 million victory gardens produced

on The Old Farmers Almanac at almanac.com for

roughly 40 percent of the country’s fresh vegetables.

“I think personally we all need to go back to that…

detailed tips on how to start a vegetable garden and how to keep the garden growing. Marmaduke Woodman’s

and just eat the real food,” says Jennifer Cox, of Crazy

series on Syracuse.com started in spring and provides

Daisies Greenhouse and Garden Café in Syracuse. “If

in depth information on gardening that you can use to

there’s one nice thing that can come out of this, [more people gardening] is a good thing...” Cox says she’s seen

begin next year’s garden. But even if you’re just getting started now, it’s not too late.

an increased interest in vegetable gardening and says many of her customers have been requesting vegetables since early April. “Vegetables are going to be on the rise

First, plant what you and your family will eat. If no one

and a lot of people that haven’t gardened in the past are

likes kale, don’t plant it. Once you decide what you want to

looking for some guidance,” she says.

plant, start small and consider containers and/or raised beds

There’s no shortage of gardening guides in CNY. A statewide IMAGE FROM THE U.S. NATIONAL ARCHIVES

WHERE TO START

to produce more productive plants.

campaign touted on Cornell University’s website called “JUST

Marmaduke Woodman says a good option for a July start

PLANT IT, NY!” offers free resources from Cornell Cooperative

is to use high-quality purchased organic soil in containers

Extension’s Master Gardener Volunteer and Garden-Based

or beds since compost won’t have time to settle in a ground

Learning programs for new gardeners.

garden. She prefers FoxFarm Ocean Forest soil.

In her online series “The Frugal Gardener” on Syracuse.com,

But you don’t necessarily have to buy the best soil. Mix it

urban organic gardener Jane Marmaduke Woodman offers step-

up to save money, but keep in mind that better soil will yield

by-step guidance for people who want to start a garden at home with advice that includes making garden beds, choosing the right garden tools and pest control, among others.

In the series, she writes that getting out in nature has a calming effect and requires no social distancing, making gardening an

better plants.

“You can mix the best soil with mediocre stuff to fill a new raised bed but use the good kind in containers. Add perlite and/ or vermiculite for a balance of drainage and water retention. OCRRA compost is great to mix with other elements,” she says.

J U LY/A U G U S T

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

53

Plowing Boston Common for the Victory Garden Program during World War 2. March 11, 1944.

54

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

J U LY/A U G U S T

Keep in mind that you can

“Only some leafy veg will grow

plant many kinds of vegeta-

well from seed now, but since those

bles in containers — if the

things are fastest to harvest, they’re

container is big enough. At

worth trying,” Marmaduke WoodWood

Crazy Daisies, Cox and her

man says.

For a free Beginner’s Garden Guide

team create patio pots, planting everything from squash to

from The Old Farmer’s Almanac, go

carrots in containers. “We do crazy things — like window boxes full of carrots.

It’s fun and easy,” she says.

to almanac.com. The guide offers tips for new gardeners on starting a garden, growing, pest control and harvesting.

You can also find details about individuindividu

LATE BLOOMERS

al crops on Cornell University’s website

One advantage to planting a garden now is

(see below).

that you can usually find many plants marked GENERAL TIPS

down this late in the season, says Marmad-

• Start small. Gardens require weeding

uke Woodman.

You can also try growing some plants from seed with many such as kale, lettuce, micro-

more time it takes to maintain.

greens, green beans, peas, radishes, beets and

• Plant what you like to eat.

herbs requiring 50 days to mature — enough time to reap a small harvest come September and October, says Cox. Be advised that if temperatures are too high, many let-

IMAGE FROM THE U.S. NATIONAL ARCHIVES

and watering. The bigger the garden, the

• Use high quality organic potting soil.

• Go full sun. Make sure plants get at least six hours of full sun daily.

tuces won’t germinate. Herbs are another solid option and

• Water plants deeply (to establish root growth) in the

you can find many on sale, with many herbs coming back

morning. Avoid watering at night, which increases the

for another season.

chance of fungus growth.

“Some kinds of sage and thyme, for example, and orega-

• Keep a compost bin in your kitchen. Add to a spot in the

no and chives are perennials in this area,” says Marmaduke

garden to enrich soil for future use. Remember to compost

weath Woodman. “Some, like cilantro and chervil, hate hot weath-

coffee grounds, fruit and vegetable scraps, eggshell, tea bags.

er, so they’ll be happy to grow for you if you plant in mid-Au-

• Walk through your garden daily. If you see a pest or a

gust. By the time they get growing, the weather will start to cool.

Let them flower and set seed, and they’ll be back next year.”

Be sure to check on a plant’s cultural requirements. If it needs a long season, save it until next spring.

problem, Google it, says Marmaduke Woodman.

• Use resources like Old Farmer’s Almanac and Cornell Cooperative Extension, which provide free gardening advice and guides. Visit gardening.cornell.edu/homegardening.

J U LY/A U G U S T

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

55

PHOTO BY ALLISON USAVAGE

56

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

J U LY/A U G U S T

Fireside fare

G

BY ALAINA POTRIKUS

athering around a campfire and

“From the moment guests arrive at camp, we want them to feel

sleeping under the stars isn’t just a

unapologetically free to be themselves and explore the natural

timeless tradition at Firelight Camps

world,” says Robert Frisch. “We believe that by being immersed

in Ithaca — it is an elevated experience

in nature, guests can deepen their connection with the wild,

from check-in to lights out.

their fellow campers and even their inner selves.

The luxury starts with the accommodations: canvas safari tents

“It’s our hope that after guests return home, memories of their stay at Firelight will keep their inner fires stoked.”

with hardwood flooring and private

The menu is the brainchild of Emma Frisch, who pioneered

balconies, king or queen beds with

a fireside food program that includes locally sourced breakfast,

plush linens and bathhouses with hot

trail snacks and artisanal s’mores kits. Guests gather around the

showers and eco-friendly toiletries.

campfire each night for cocktail hour made with spirits from the

Guests can schedule a morning

Finger Lakes, and a newly added picnic area with charcoal and

yoga class, explore the swimming holes, gorges and cascading

propane grills allows guests to “collect culinary treasures from

waterfalls of Buttermilk Falls State Park during the afternoon and

the region and prepare a delicious meal at camp.”

stargaze around the communal campfire at night. Hammocks

Camp store provisions include hot dogs, sausages and

hang among the evergreen trees, and neighboring August Moon

vegetarian dogs from The Piggery, Ithaca’s farm-to-table butcher,

Spa offers in-tent massages. Finger Lakes wineries and eclectic

and rotating seasonal sides, like pasta, potato and kale salads.

downtown Ithaca are just a short drive away.

The premiere glamping destination was co-founded in 2014 by Emma Frisch, a cookbook author and finalist on Food Network

Frisch wants cooking outdoors to feel effortless, and offers tips in her cookbook “Feast by Firelight” to help elevate backyard barbecues and fire pit fare.

Star, and her husband, Robert, a Cornell alum and entrepreneur.

“No need for fancy servingware or pristine picnic blankets

Robert Frisch described the experience as luxury hospitality

— crumbs will spill, as they should,” she said. “Assemble your

blended with rugged exploration, where guests can experience

fireside spread in a central place that can be accessed from all

the restorative effects of nature while enjoying modern amenities.

angles so everyone can easily dig in and enjoy the bounty.”

Left, Emma and Robert Frisch, founders of Firelight Camps

J U LY/A U G U S T

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

57

Excerpt: Feast by Firelight

BY EMMA FRISCH, CO-FOUNDER AND CULINARY DIRECTOR OF FIRELIGHT CAMPS IN ITHACA MAMMA’S SALSA VERDE 1 large or 2 small garlic cloves, peeled One 2-ounce can anchovy fillets, rinsed and patted dry 2 tablespoons capers 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar or sherry vinegar 1⁄2 teaspoon Dijon mustard 1⁄2 cup coarsely chopped fresh parsley 1⁄3 cup olive oil, plus 1 tablespoon 2 pounds skirt steak (see Note) 2 teaspoons kosher salt 20 turns of the pepper mill Note: Some recipes suggest trimming the steak’s fat to prevent flare-ups when the fat drips onto the coals. Skirt steak isn’t very fatty, but still, leave any fat on for flavor and just be prepared for flare-ups.

PREP To prepare the salsa verde: In a food processor, combine the garlic, anchovies, and capers and pulse until finely chopped.

Scrape down the sides of the processor bowl; add the vinegar, mustard and parsley; and whiz while slowly drizzling in the 1⁄3 cup olive oil until smooth and bright green.

Transfer the mixture to a lidded 8-ounce jar. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over the top to create a film that will preserve the lovely bright green. Seal the jar tightly and chill for up to 1 week.

FIRE-LICKED SKIRT STEAK WITH MAMMA’S SALSA VERDE

Prep: 10 minutes Cook:10 to 12 minutes

Dry-brine the steaks by rubbing the salt evenly over the surface. (You can also do this one to two hours before cooking at camp.)

Yield: 4 to 6 servings

Transfer to a ziplock bag and then chill for up to 24 hours.

In January 1985, when my mother was consulting for

Remove the salsa verde from the cooler and let stand at ambient temperature for up to 2 hours before serving.

several Italian wineries from our home in Denver, she was featured as Bon Appétit magazine’s “great cook” of the month. The food editor was a good friend, and upon sharing with my mother that it was difficult to find accomplished home cooks for this section, Mamma volunteered with enthusiasm; she was already known for her dinner parties.

The resulting seven-page spread featured eight original Italian recipes that showcased her roots, noting that, “Almost everything is made ahead of time because she wants to enjoy her own party.” Not to mention she had twin daughters not yet a year old at that point and was also working full time.

When I’m camping, I also want to relax at dinner, which is why I love this easy, bright sauce with high-voltage flavor (it’s been passed down for generations in our family). It’s the perfect complement to nearly any entrée or side dish, especially skirt steak. The affordable cut cooks fast on the grill, yielding a crispy crust and juicy interior. Leftover steak can be used for sandwich, taco, and quesadilla fillings.

58

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

J U LY/A U G U S T

Feast By Firelight You can find Feast By Firelight at Barnes & Noble, Target, Amazon and other places where books are sold.

Fire the grill to high heat and position the grill grate as close as possible to the coals or pile the coals high under the grate to maximize the steak’s proximity to the fire.

Remove the steaks from the cooler and pat dry with a paper towel to eliminate moisture on the surface and ensure a crispy crust.

Sprinkle both sides with the pepper.

Place the steaks over the hottest part of the fire. Using long tongs, flip the steak every minute or so for even cooking; the cooking time will vary depending on thickness.

Look for an evenly caramelized and browned outer crust to check doneness. Slight char is okay but don’t let the crust burn!

Use a thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the thickest part of the steak is between 125° and 130°F for medium-rare to medium. You can cook longer for medium-well or well-done, though it will make the steak chewier.

Transfer the steak to a cutting board and let rest for 10 minutes so the juices can redistribute. Slice the steak against the grain into 1⁄2-inch slices.

Serve directly from the cutting board.

Stir the top layer of oil into the salsa verde just before serving and let campers add it to their steak directly from the jar. Store leftovers in an airtight container, chilled, for up to three days.

‘ C A S T AWAY

BY AMY BLEIER LONG

P

o dcas t s are an engaging

topics. The perspectives are informative,

method of storytelling,

funny, inspirational, useful and thought-

providing interviews,

provoking, most all at once. Some creators

commentary and narratives

have been putting out content for three

on nearly any subject. That

years, others as little as three months. This

holds true here in Central New York, where we found an abundance of creative thinkers developing content around a variety of

roundup of 24 podcasts is just a sampling of what people are recording in our area. *Many of the podcasts feature adult language.

J U LY/A U G U S T

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

59

SYRACUSE SPORTS Syracuse Sports allows longtime journalist Brent Axe to break away from analysis and dig deeper into the personal stories behind sports figures with ties to Syracuse. Interviews focus mainly on personalities from Syracuse University athletics, but also touch on the Syracuse Crunch, Syracuse Mets, professional sports and high school programs. (Syracuse.com also offers supplemental podcasts focused on the Buffalo Bills and SU Football.)

Through casual conversations with everyone from big names in sports to people you haven’t heard from in a while, Axe encourages guests to tell their story their way and hopes to uncover what led athletes to Syracuse and other tidbits listeners might not know. He’s working on themed episodes highlighting specific games and events from the past. Regarding people who grew up here, alumni and those who follow Syracuse solely because of sports, Axe says, “Sports is the easiest way to unite a college community.” When you scroll through the episodes, you’ll also find the Stick with Syracuse series, where Axe chatted with local folks in other fields.

Also check out: Syracuse Speaks – Alexandra Ackerman, a sports journalist who covers hockey, provides opinion and analysis on all things Syracuse Crunch and the AHL. Ackerman recaps games, looks ahead to future matchups, reports stats, and considers roster changes and their impact on the team. She also gives her perspective on the experience at the War Memorial, as well as the roller coaster of emotions during the season.

Visit anchor.fm/alexandra-ackerman.

Find Syracuse Sports on all major platforms.

EAT LOCAL CNY Anthony Tringale founded Eat Local CNY to encourage the community to support locally owned restaurants; all the promotion he does for those establishments is pro bono.

The podcast he started in February 2019 supports that mission, addressing the food and beverage industry in Central New York as a whole. In his studio at the Delevan Center in Syracuse, he records with farmers, restauranteurs, brewers, pastry chefs, business owners, food writers and photographers. Tringale wants to give interviewees “the opportunity to come in, not just to promote themselves, but to be able to tell their story, who they are, where they came from and how they got started,” he says.

For restaurant and business owners, episodes are a place of mutual understanding: they hear stories about others dealing with similar insecurities and struggles regarding finances, ingredient sourcing, marketing and operations. For consumers, the chats give insight into what contributes to a thriving local restaurant landscape and help make meaningful connections to the people behind our food and drinks.

Also check out: Clean Slate Farm – Culinary Institute of America-trained Dave Lenweaver and his wife Joanne grow organic vegetables and herbs and raise honeybees at their Tully-based Clean Slate Farm. These ingredients appear in their delicious vinegars, spice blend and beeswax hand cream, respectively. In his podcast, which began in late 2017, Dave Lenweaver discusses cooking, food, gardening and beekeeping with local farmers and business owners.

Visit cleanslatefarm.com/podcast.

Find Eat Local CNY on all major platforms and YouTube.

THE LADIES’ ROOM When you’re trying to tell a story, two minutes isn’t very long, but that’s often all the time television news anchors Iris St. Meran and Jennifer Sanders have. In March 2018, they created The Ladies’ Room to enable a deeper exploration of women’s journeys while showing more of their own personalities. From local entrepreneurs and change-makers to national correspondents and Broadway stars, they talk to women making a positive impact at any level. “It exposes our audience to people that they may not have been aware of,” says St. Meran.

Though the experiences of overcoming hardship and achieving success are varied, a common thread emerges. Like their listeners, the duo is inspired and motivated by their guests’ stories of strength and resiliency. “It’s so beautiful to see people come out of the struggle and for others to realize that you might be struggling, too, but here’s how this person made it, here’s what they went through and because they made it, you can definitely make it, too,” says Sanders. Look for a third season later this year.

Find The Ladies’ Room on all major platforms.

60

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

J U LY/A U G U S T

Also check out: What a Woman – Lauren Adam and Katie Smith introduce listeners to influential, infamous, and sometimes forgotten or disparaged, women throughout history. Each episode delves into the background of a woman we should know and provides a fuller picture of her life. The figures selected impacted history, industry, politics, civil rights and much more in different parts of the world over the last two millennia.

Visit whatawomanpod.buzzsprout.com.

THINKSTOCK PHOTOS, PHOTO ILLUSTRATIONS BY SEAN MCKEOWN-YOUNG. PORTRAITS BY JENNIFER ANGELORO, FRANCESCA PHOTOGRAPHERS, ERIN COVEY

RUST BELT STARTUP As director of the ThINCubator, a Utica-based hub for entrepreneurship, Ryan Miller helps Mohawk Valley small businesses get off the ground and create solutions. Even when he’s not working, he’s pondering issues like food systems, voiceactivated technology, acceleration and what the future looks like for small cities and non-metro areas. All these interests fuel his podcast, which he has been producing since spring 2018.

Through exchanges with regional thought leaders and toolbox episodes where he riffs on trends, data points and ideas that catch his attention, Miller keeps the show focused on how changing circumstances might affect people in small cities or their ability to participate in what’s next. Because he works so closely with people positively affecting communities in non-traditional ways, he is motivated to shift the mindset in Rust Belt cities such as Utica or Syracuse. “We’re always looking to giant thought leaders to tell us how to make our lives better or how to improve things, when we have this treasure trove of knowledge and creativity in our own backyard,” he says.

Find Rust Belt Startup on all major platforms.

Also check out: Working Syracuse – Produced as a capstone project by Syracuse University S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications students in 2018, this well-crafted podcast features 14 episodes. Syracuse locals in a range of occupations open up about their jobs and how they find meaning in what they do. The project was inspired by the work of Studs Terkel, whose oral histories of everyday Americans’ experiences defined the genre. The 2019 series, Syracuse Side Hustles, was honored with a Society of Professional Journalists’ Mark of Excellence Award. Visit workingsyracuse. com and syracusesidehustles.com.

J U LY/A U G U S

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

61

INSPIRATION FOR THE NATION For nearly two decades, George Kilpatrick has been celebrating the African American community, in Syracuse and beyond, whose voices have been historically underrepresented. His show, Inspiration for the Nation, is broadcast live each Sunday at 9 a.m. on Power 620 AM and streams on iHeartRadio. He uploads it to SoundCloud as a podcast for a wider audience to enjoy.

The show’s empowering and encouraging themes are aimed at a Black and diverse audience, but anyone can benefit from the stories of success and achievement.

With energy and empathy, Kilpatrick amplifies positive, solutions-oriented messages by guests from all walks of life. He invites authors, experts, educators, celebrities, spiritual and community leaders, many of whom are Black, who add the most value to important conversations. This month, Kilpatrick is expanding the show to include more locally focused content and will join true podcasting platforms. Kilpatrick aims to remind listeners “of the success all around them that’s not often shown to them. We know that the best is yet to come and their voices matter.” he says.

Find Inspiration for the Nation at soundcloud.com/inspirationforthenation.

62

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

J U LY/A U G U S T

Also check out: In Her Voice – Kelly Covert, an inner voice coach, explores themes of trust, intention, connection and introspection to advance the goal of guiding women to self-empowerment. Her interviews with women in a range of professional areas provide resources and critical thought on what success looks and feels like on an individual level. The honest conversations invite listeners to accept and embrace their worth and potential. Visit kellycovert.com/podcast.

SALT CITY CODE Karin Thorne and Kelly Corey met at a 2019 coding bootcamp as they were both pursuing new careers. Thorne proposed a podcast highlighting Syracuse’s thriving tech scene that would also give a voice to women in the male-dominated field. Their goal is to emphasize the wealth of opportunities and applications of tech right here in Central New York. “I want to convey how many different areas we have, and that minorities, women and young girls can get into tech,” says Thorne. Hack Upstate (a sponsor of the podcast, along with Syracuse CoWorks) started Careers in Code, the bootcamp they attended, to specifically train women and underrepresented minorities.

Last November they started recording, inviting guests to share their varied paths into tech, provide additional resources and get to know each other.

“We try to bring the human side to the technology. We didn’t want it to be just a bunch of impenetrable jargon,” says Corey. In the future, Corey and Thorne hope to expand their content into livestreaming and Twitch.

Also check out: Making it Happen – Host Mia Tomasello dives into the highs and lows of entrepreneurship with Central New York-based startups. Interviews with the leaders of The Tech Garden member companies — of which there are 100 — address innovation, funding, scale and cutting-edge applications of technology. The Tech Garden provides resources and workspace for emerging ventures and serves as a support system for growth. Visit thetechgarden. com/makingithappen.html.

Find Salt City Code on all major platforms.

UPSET CITY What started as a promotional tool has become a platform for thoughtful conversations on music, the creative process and our community. Songwriter and instrumentalist Jeffrey York, of Syracuse, leads hip-hop and R&B-influenced indie rock band Major Player; he launched his podcast in January to drum up excitement for the release of the band’s second album, Upset City. With other musicians and industry professionals, York considers the creation of art and music in a city like Syracuse and the desire for more community support of local creators.

The name Upset City is a double entendre meant to comment on the state of current societal agitation as well as a sly reference to the area’s preoccupation with sports.

Through the podcast he wants to talk about coming together and finding ways around differences instead of being divisive. “I want the podcast to be a way to talk about not just how the city could be better, but what’s already cool about it,” he says.

Find Upset City on all major platforms.

Also check out: Long Range Sarcasm: The L.R.S. Records Podcast – L.R.S. Records label founders Mark Turley and Nic Oliver riff on music and thrift shop finds. The independent label has 12 artists on its roster and discussions about live shows in the area allow listeners to discover additional original music. A spinoff, Audio Capsule, features Turley and local songwriter Mike Gibson looking back at their own bands’ discographies and the stories behind the songs. Visit listennotes. com/podcasts/long-range-sarcasm-thelrs-records-podcast-WRb76XhOpkw.

PHOTOS: V. RENEE PHOTOGRAPHY, KALEIGH BIGFORD

SUPERPODHEROCAST If you’ve been looking for someone to dissect, appreciate and argue over superhero movies with, Casey Ryan and Todd Panek are your new favorite geeks. The longtime friends, and “guys with beers talking about movies with capes,” launched their show in 2017. Episodes run roughly the length of a feature film, but their audience has consistently responded positively to their detailed approach and banter. “I think the charm is really that you’re listening to two buddies having a great time hanging out, and when it’s really working, our listeners feel like they’re sitting there hanging out with us,” says Panek.

Pairing a beer from Branching Out Bottle Shop to each film, Panek and Ryan use humor and deep criticism to give their perspectives on a genre they love, even when they don’t love particular titles. “I like to think of us as Siskel and Ebert but with dirty jokes,” says Ryan. Patrons have access to special content and the duo just joined the Night Shift Radio podcast network. Expect Season 4 in the fall.

Also check out: Good Mourning, Nancy – Lifelong friends and horror flick fans Gracie Jarvis and Abbey Brown recently began the eighth season of their well-researched podcast. The duo analyzes films — from classics such as “Rosemary’s Baby” to psychological scares like “Get Out” — through a feminist lens, looking critically at key themes, tropes and representation.

Their blog is an additional resource of critical analysis tying the movies to current events and society. Visit goodmourningnancy.com/listen.

Find SuperPodHeroCast on all major platforms.

J U LY/A U G U S T

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

63

TRIALS AND TRANSFORMATIONS Through the lenses of cultural, racial, gender and astrological identity, entrepreneurs Karlem Sivira Gimenez and Willow “Willote” Brown – an artist and content creator, and licensed massage therapist, respectively – seek to understand the human experience.

Airing since November 2018, their episodes center and elevate the tapestry of entrepreneurial millennial people of color and queer people, beginning with their community in Ithaca. “It’s a sacred ritual of sharing stories; it’s very much what people of color have had to do to pass on their history and it’s a place where I get to do that in a contemporary way,” says Brown of the podcast.

Discussions frequently examine the creative process and individual paths to success while in progress, as opposed to already achieved, by teasing out challenges faced and providing tools and resources. They hope to offer nontraditional ways of thinking, emotional processing and self-analysis. “How do we grow and continue to improve on ourselves to help others and to show up in our community in a way that is transformative,” says Sivira Gimenez.

Also check out: Bindlism – Based in the Gear Factory, Kyle Fisk and Andy Padula founded their Boho Hobo lifestyle brand on a philosophy of emotional intelligence and a quest to understand commonalities in the human experience. Their podcast, Bindlism, gives them an avenue to draw out the stories of entrepreneurs, creatives and those with a fresh perspective to see how anyone can create a life that’s fulfilling mentally, emotionally and physically. Visit bohohobolifestyle.com/pages/bindlism.

Find Trials and Transformations on all major platforms.

THE QUALITY OF LOVE Born and raised on Syracuse’s South Side, Tyrone Dixon’s personal experiences as a child and working with children considered “troubled” led him to realize that more education around emotional intelligence and healthy behaviors is needed.

Dixon is a nationally certified life and relationship coach. His consulting company, Aroze Through Concrete, addresses relationships, mental health and understanding and using emotions in positive ways.

Because the quality of love and relationships people have is inextricably tied to their quality of life, Dixon is using his uplifting new podcast — it began this past May — to offer listeners shortcuts and guidelines for cultivating healthy choices and effective communication. He offers a way for people to ask questions that are answered anonymously. “My idea is to be able to change people’s outlook on our city, on our community, on others and create a safe place to be able to discuss our mental health issues,” says Dixon.

Also check out: Zestful Aging – As you move through life, what do you want your legacy to be? Psychotherapist Nicole Christina, LCSW, and her guests examine issues related to aging, embracing change and opportunities and contributing to the greater good.

Each inspirational dispatch reminds listeners that they can have a positive impact at any age; interviewees come from the worlds of sports, film, politics, fashion and mental health to name a few. Visit zestfulaging.com.

Find The Quality of Love on all major platforms and at TQLP.buzzsprout.com.

LOST GUIDANCE Everyone has a passion or interest that consciously or subconsciously drives their choices and has influenced who they are today — that’s the premise of Zach Bonanza’s podcast. Since February 2019, the Utica-based host has invited guests including musicians, registered dieticians, athletes, business owners and adventure seekers for a relaxed conversation about how their personal underlying theme has been a guidepost throughout their lives. He notes that nobody has the rule book or answers for the larger questions and that everyone has at one time felt lost in their way.

Bonanza believes storytelling is a positive, uniting practice; by listening to others’ stories, perhaps listeners facing struggle or uncertainty will glean a different perspective and insight that they can apply to their own situations. “If somebody is listening to my podcast and they hear my guest talk about how they got through something using what they love and it inspires them to do one thing, then I’ve done well,” he says. Season 3 will be released later this year.

Find Lost Guidance on SoundCloud and YouTube.

64

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

J U LY/A U G U S T

Also check out: What’s Up Syracuse – If you like the feel of a morning show hosted by familiar personalities, you’ll appreciate this listen from former Syracuse Rock Radio Morning Duo, Steve “The Fatman” Corlett and Lois Burns. In their segments, Corlett and Burns give their unfiltered opinions on national and local stories and any news impacting CNY. Interviews highlight local figures, those who have a tie to the area and special guests passing through. Visit stitcher.com/ podcast/whats-up-syracuse-podcast.

THE CONDEMNED Narrated by Sunny Hernandez and Josh McDonald, The Condemned recounts the origins and fates of five Onondaga County residents who were sentenced to death in the electric chair, an Upstate New York invention. Johnathan Croyle dug into the archives to shape scripts that breathe life into stories that haven’t been told for around 100 years: “It’s really amazing how detailed old newspapers were. They gave you the weather, the attitudes of the people, what the courtroom looked like, what it sounded like, what the death chamber was like. It almost felt like you were there,” he says.

As you listen to familiar street names, there’s an eerie sense that you’ve stood where at least one of the crimes took place. “We’ve learned so much and it’s going to be such a dynamic experience for anyone who’s really into local history, true crime, ghost stories or anything like that,” says Hernandez. The team behind this creative effort, which includes Steve Carlic, Katrina Tulloch, Christa Lemczak and Sonja Duntley, is plotting future historical series.

Find The Condemned on all major platforms; visit YouTube and syracuse.com/ condemned for additional content.

Also check out: Syracuse Nostalgia – Brian Hamilton has run the popular online archive of local ephemera for 13 years. In over two dozen episodes, he talks to notable Syracusans and Central New Yorkers about their stories and each episode is sprinkled with catchy local jingles and bands. He plans to introduce new episodes later this year and is currently uploading past interviews to YouTube with visuals to accompany the conversations.

Visit syracusenostalgia. com/podcast.

J U LY/A U G U S T

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

65

With ratitude We would like to thank the advertisers listed below for their continued support. Even during these difficult financial times, you remained committed to supporting our mission to spotlight the good life in Central New York and by investing in us, you literally made this issue possible.

It is important to us to keep the magazine in its current printed format – it serves as a regional keepsake showcasing the best of Central New York. With the ongoing support of local businesses, it will continue to serve as a tribute to our people, our businesses, our spirit.

Thank you.

BOTTAR LAW, PLLC CORTLAND COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY John Heagerty, owner of Wildflowers at the McCarthy Building, CNY COMMUNITYMichael FOUNDATION created a moving umbrella exhibit to boost the spirits of those who passed by.

CROUSE HOSPITAL FRANK WEBB BATH AND LIGHTING GRIMALDIS LUNA PARK

BOTTAR LAW CORTLAND COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY HARTLEYS AUTO AND RV CENTER CENTRAL NEW YORK COMMUNITY FOUNDATION LORETTO CENTRAL NEW YORK LIVING HISTORY CENTER CROUSE HEALTH MODERN KITCHENS OF SYRACUSE FRANK WEBB HOME OLUMS APPLIANCES GRIMALDI’S LUNA PARK We would like to thank the advertisers listed below for their ROMA TILE AND MARBLE HARTLEYS AUTO & RV CENTER MODERN KITCHENS OF SYRACUSE continued support. Even during these difficult financial times, SAINT LAWRENCE SPIRITS OLUM’S APPLIANCES you remained committed to supporting our mission to spotlight the good life in Central New York and by investing in us, you ST JOSEPHS HOSPITAL ROMA TILE & MARBLE SAINT LAWRENCE SPIRITS CHATEAU literally made this issue possible.

SUB ZERO REFRIGERATIONST. JOSEPH’S HEALTH SUB-ZERO It is important to us to keep the magazine in its current printed UPSTATE MEDICAL UNIVERSITY MARKETING THE LORETTO FOUNDATION format – it serves as a regional keepsake showcasing the UPSTATE MEDICAL UNIVERSITY

With

best of Central New York. With the ongoing support of local businesses, it will continue to serve as a tribute to our people, our businesses, our spirit.

Thank you.

S9628175-01

“Look at how a single candle can both defy and define the darkness.” ― ANNE FRANK

Keeping the light on

T

S Y R A C U S E . C O M S TA F F

hey say there are always those who are willing to help during difficult times. In Central New York, there was no shortage of people and businesses willing to contribute

in big ways and small, doing whatever they could to help others. It’s an honor just to live in a place that’s home to so many selfless, caring, entrepreneurial individuals and organizations. We wanted to take time to reflect on those inspiring acts of kindness.

Here’s a look back at some of them – courtesy of the reporters and photographers of Syracuse.com.

J U LY/A U G U S T

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

67

FOR THE KIDS

FOR THE ATHLETES

“We just want the students to

“We miss everybody at school. We

know we are all thinking of

realize it’s a tough time right now

them, and we do miss them.’’

for everybody in the world. We

–Tecumseh Elementary School Principal Jill Zerillo on the parade of cars through

just wanted to show appreciation to our students that V-V-S is

DeWitt neighborhoods that teachers and staff put on to boost students’ spirits

FOR A FELLOW TEACHER

“All we wanted was to bring a little light to her, to make her feel special.”

–Jackie Brzostek, a second-grade teacher at Seymour Dual Language Academy in Syracuse.

Brzostek had organized a parade — at a safe distance — to lift the spirits of fellow teacher Danielle Forgensi who had laid her father to rest.

Forgensi’s father, August “Augie” Forgensi, 88, died two weeks after testing positive for coronavirus.

While their dad fought for his life, Danielle Forgensi and her four siblings were placed in a quarantine and couldn’t hold his hand or be by his side at the hospital. In the last days, family members spoke one last time to their father through an iPad.

68

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

J U LY/A U G U S T

thinking about them whether they are in the building or not.”

FOR THE SENIORS

“Yes, going to school like this is awful, but this made me realize how lucky I am to have grown up where I did.

We’ve always had a tight-knit district.

But come on, I had 52 teachers in my front yard. That’s amazing.”

–Vernon Verona Sherill athletic director Randy Thomas, whose school joined a nationwide trend in briefly turning on stadium lights while athletic fields stayed dark.

FOR A COLLEAGUE

“For those couple minutes, I wasn’t thinking about anything else. For me, it just about seeing the kids.

–Marcellus High School Senior Jack McAuliff commenting on the caravan of mask-wearing

That was the greatest part.”

administrators, the school’s mustang mascot blasting an airhorn, a Marcellus police cruiser and dozens of honking cars full of teachers. The caravan visited the home of every Marcellus High School senior. McAuliff will study music theater at University at Hartford in the fall.

–Danielle Dattellas, a West Genesee graduate and teacher in the school district. Colleagues, friends, neighbors, family and students formed an impromptu parade outside her home on April 10 wishing her happy birthday and waving from passing cars.

THIS PAGE, PHOTO BY SCOTT SCHILD; OPPOSITE PAGE PHOTO BY MICHAEL JOHN HEAGERTY

Elsa, 6, waves as Tecumseh Elementary school teachers drive a car parade past her home.

FOR THE NEIGHBORS

“I’ve worked here 44 years and seeing all the flags at sunrise is truly inspiring and helps us get through these long COVID-19 days,” Roach said.

–Rick Roach, of Barnes and Cone, a Syracuse business that manufactures concrete block. Roach and some of his workers mortared miniature American flags in concrete block and lined them down Court Street Road. Neighbors noticed the gesture and donated flags to the Barnes and Cone office. Roach and his workers continued to add more and more flags. More than 300 American flags lined Court Street Road.

FOR FRONTLINE WORKERS

“It’s really great to be a part of that big heart that we call Central New York.

There is incredible support for those who are in need in this area and it’s great to be a part of that.”

– Don Buschmann, director of production operations for Syracuse Stage, who organized members of the scene, costume and props departments to produce masks from home following specifications determined by medical practitioners. After just two days of production, Buschmann’s crew was able to send out 265 masks to Upstate Medical Center and Crouse Health. Buschmann said he was inspired after seeing teachers at Dewitt Moses Elementary School distributing free lunches for students.

FOR UNEMPLOYED WORKERS

“I go, ‘Hi. There’s a human on the other end.’ All you hear is somebody scream and start laughing and that’s when you get the call going.”

–Helen Esposito, a labor service representative in the New York State Department of Labor, who answered phone calls of people unemployed by the coronavirus shutdown and offered words of comfort.

FOR ANYONE IN NEED

“I just had a woman text me who said she doesn’t have a ride for an hour and a half. She needed cereal, asked if we had any noodles, and wanted the bacon and eggs I had been keeping in the fridge. She said that she had to FOR EVERYONE

“I de-handled them all realizing it could be a temporary installation — I could stick them in the ground like they’re plants. Like flowers, almost. Normally, they’re hung like a canopy and I wanted to do something a little different.”

–Michael John Heagerty, owner of Wildflowers Armory, who made art during the pandemic by placing umbrellas around town. In Syracuse, his moving umbrellas display is meant to boost the spirits of those who pass by while also paying respect to patients fighting coronavirus and the healthcare workers caring for them.

send her son to her mother’s all week because she didn’t have any food left, and that just ripped my heart out.”

–Rosealee Sperduti, of Camillus, who with boyfriend Eric Skinner, set up the Little Italian Tabletop Market, where each day they place free food items on a table in the driveway for anyone in the community in need.

J U LY/A U G U S T

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

69

FOR A FELLOW BUSINESS

“We’ve all been there. it can be devastating for a small business to lose that kind of money, especially with what’s happening right now. It may not seem like a lot of money to some people, but when you’re barely making it, that’s a lot.”

–The coordinator of an effort by Eastwood business owners to quietly reach out to help a small, struggling sandwich shop that lost money. The shop had quit doing pickup and delivery and instead offered their surplus food free to police, firefighters, EMTs, doctors and nurses and launched on online fundraising effort for first responders. They hoped to raise at least $1,000 — more than the sandwich shop’s owner lost when her bag of $700 in cash receipts for the day (and her credit cards) went missing.

FOR THEIR FAVORITE RESTAURANT

“I couldn’t believe how many people showed up. I think it was good for them, good for us. Everyone just wanted a touch of normalcy, even though it wasn’t really that normal.”

FOR ANYONE IN NEED

“You get tired of waking up and

–Nicole Kennedy, owner of The Old Ledge in North Syracuse, which reopened for takeout after closing during the coronavirus pandemic. Regular customers begged Kennedy to reopen, even just for a day or two.

seeing bad news. The number of people who died. The unemployment numbers. It’s not pretty out there.

We thought this would brighten things up, even if it’s just a little.”

–Scott Upham, who, with Tammy Schuh, opened The Shoppe at Strathmore, a stand on their front porch that offers food, toiletries and other household items free to anyone who needs it. They built on that idea after reading about Rosealee Sperduti. The Shoppe at Strathmore has had a regular stream of customers and

FOR FIRST RESPONDERS

“It’s not just the meal. It’s someone

“Thanks for making their life, not just their day,”

thinking about them.”

–Amanda Fetter, thanking firefighters and law enforcement who rode in a parade through her neighborhood to celebrate her sons’ birthdays. Fetter’s son Jacob turned six on April 7 and son Ben turned three on April 9. The family usually holds a big party to celebrate both, but had to cancel plans due to social distancing orders. Six firetrucks from the Lakeland Fire Department and several Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office cars blared sirens and flashed lights as they the kids watched from their front lawn.

–Joey DeCuffa, owner of Joey’s Italian Restaurant, which provided 200 free Easter dinners for healthcare workers, police officers, firefighters and other first responders on the front line of the coronavirus pandemic

70

FOR THEIR BIRTHDAYS

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

J U LY/A U G U S T

PHOTO BY AMANDA FETTER

donations along with its own Facebook page.

FOR ANYONE WHO NEEDS IT

“We thought it would be a great idea to kind of help both sides of that spectrum. We can help provide some very high, highly nutritious food for people that could really benefit from it.”

–Ashley Adams Marshall, SUNY Morrisville assistant professor of dairy science, who helped launch a dairy drive-through to support the community while supplies run low at local grocery stores, giving away milk, cheese, yogurt and other dairy products at the SUNY Morrisville Dairy Complex to help families and dairy industry workers.

FOR A LITTLE FUN

FOR THOSE STUCK AT HOME

“It’s such a win-win for people to be

“That’s kind of the spirit of Chittenango. It warms my heart

able to participate in something fun

to know there are people out there like that.”

and then give back at the same time.”

–Chittenango village mayor Elizabeth Bough Martin on the volunteers that are part of Chittenango Assistance, a group that sprang up in the village after the pandemic hit. It’s a no-frills, grassroots bunch that came together via Facebook to help deliver supplies and do grocery shopping and other errands for those who are stuck at home.

–Kate Houck, executive director of David’s Refuge, an organization that provides support to parents of children with special needs, on how drive-thru Pizze Fritte sales have helped CNY charities. The Zazzara family, owners of Villa Pizze Fritte, have designated a local charity to get a share of the proceeds.

FOR ANYONE IN NEED

FOR PEOPLE PASSING BY

“Obviously, we’re all stuck in our houses, so we decided to throw some lights back up and put some music to it. You can come and enjoy it for

“I wanted to give what I can.”

a couple minutes and then just go on your way.”

–Owner Mike Farhoud of Lucky 7 Grocery & Deli in Lyncourt, which offered hundreds of free spaghetti dinners amid coronavirus pandemic.

Lucky 7 served 150 free small pasta dinners a day from 2 to 4 p.m. to those in need.

–Greg Brewster, whose animated lights show was featured on “The Great Christmas Light Fight.” Brewster and his wife Jess began their animated lights show again during social distancing orders and showed it nightly at their home on Jacob Lane in Brewerton.

J U LY/A U G U S T

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

71

THE GRASS IS GREENER IN CNY Good things come in small(er) packages. More recently, young people are leaving big cities for midsize cities to enjoy less-crowded areas, lower costs of living and shorter commutes, but still enjoy a rich, cultural lifestyle.

The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg News, Business Insider all cite an exodus of young people from bigger cities like New York, San Francisco, Houston and others to midsize cities. A 2019 US Census Bureau report found that roughly 27,000 people between the ages of 25 and 38 left bigger cities for less populated areas.

What can’t they find in a big city? What are they looking for?

Factors indicate younger people are looking for a better housing costs, lower cost of living, shorter commutes, better schools, less stress and better access to nature and a lower population density.

That’s Central New York.

FIND OUT MORE AT GOODLIFECNY.COM AND PREPARE TO FALL IN LOVE ALL OVER AGAIN.

#goodlifeCNY 72

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

J U LY/A U G U S T

JOIN THE INITIATIVE.

These local companies are working together to support and to build our community: INFICON, Inc. M&T Bank National Grid Pathfinder Bank Rapid Response

Monitoring Services, Inc. Saab Syracuse University Turning Stone Resort & Casino, Bristol-Myers Squibb Onondaga County SyracuseCoE SRC Inc. Anaren AXA C&S Companies Fust Charles Chambers LLP Le Moyne College Thompson & Johnson Co., Inc. So, please promote our hometown.

Act as an ambassador for Central New York and help us spread the good word. Share the website with friends or family interested in making a move.

We need to make sure they know about what a great place Central New York is. And, there’s an initiative underway to promote how special the area is to live and how many jobs are available.

CenterState CEO is leading several initiatives to help address the needs of employers for available workers. They’ve partnered with Advance Media New York to create an all-in-one resource for Central New York companies to sell the area to job candidates.

The project, The Good Life, Central New York, includes a multimedia marketing effort and a new website — www.goodlifeCNY.com — that provides potential Central New Yorkers everything they need to know about the region to entice them to join us in The Good Life.

Thank those forward-thinking companies that are working together to push our community forward.

Share the job opportunities listed across high-level sectors like defense, engineering, health care, and more.

Use #goodlifeCNY to highlight the fun and beauty of your life in CNY. Follow GoodLifeCNY on social media and post and share your love of CNY. Stay safe and be careful, CNY. We love you.

Check out the website and share it with friends or family that are considering relocating, and employers looking for their next new hire. More than 27,000 people have checked out the site since it went live just a few months ago.

Among the site’s many features is a job board for hiring managers and job seekers that can be accessed from the Good Life CNY site or by linking directly at https://careers.goodlifecny.com.

J U LY/A U G U S T

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

73

Our Town

Eastwood AMY BLEIER LONG

The popular neighborhood of Eastwood officially became part of the City of Syracuse in the late 1920s. Known as “the village within the city,” Eastwood is largely residential with a commercial district of predominantly independent businesses centered around James Street. The area attracts young professionals and families but is just as full of lifelong residents. An active neighborhood association strengthens the community and hosts multiple annual events to bring everyone together.

Grab a bite Take on the oversized portions at famous diner Mother’s Cupboard.

Tuck into Hale & Hearty soups and more at The Palace Commons Café & Lounge. Head to Goal Tenders Food and Beverage for grilled goodies and milkshakes. Stop into the original Brooklyn Pickle for its sizeable sandwiches and homemade soups.

For subs, sandwiches and a variety of brews, check out Moonlight Deli & Beer and Hieros Sandwiches & Beer. Call Pies Guys of Eastwood and Original Italian Pizza when you’re craving a slice. Grab some comfort food at The Foul Bar Grille & Bar. Feast on Italian classics at Dominick’s Restaurant.

Take out from Lee’s Garden Chinese Restaurant. Savor falafel, gyros and kabobs from Goodies Mediterranean

Mother’s Cupboard’s six-pound breakfast frittata.

Grill & Cuisine and Sinbad Restaurant (don’t miss Sinbad’s Syrian stretchy ice cream). For a hearty cheesesteak sandwich, try A Taste of Philadelphia.

Find good eats all day at Tony’s Family Restaurant. Tempt yourself at Fifi’s Ice Cream and Sweets or get your licks at Pappy’s Ice Cream Corner.

74

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

J U LY/A U G U S T

“The community here is an educated, conscious, cooperative and respectful community. I find love, affection and familiarity between them and for visitors.”

ASSAD ALMAJID, OWNER OF SINBAD RESTAURANT

Have a drink The original Café Kubal features an espresso bar and baked goods. Get fresh milk, coffee, doughnuts and other eats at Byrne Dairy & Deli. Shifty’s Bar & Grill, open since 1969, features live music and award-winning wings. At nanobrewery Eastwood Brewing Company, sample craft beer in the tasting room and fill growlers. Choose your spot for a cold one: Chadwick’s Sports Bar & Grill, Gilligan’s Pub, McNeilly’s Pub, Coyne’s Tavern, Newfy’s Tavern or Murray’s Tavern.

Get outside The large Sunnycrest Park includes the Frank Salanger Sports Complex, a 9-hole golf course, walking and cross-country

PHOTOS BY KATRINA TULLOCH, KATHE HARRINGTON FOR NYUP.COM

ski trails, a playground, tennis and bas-

Dalton’s American Decorative Arts and Antiques specializes in the American Arts and Crafts movement.

Shop local

ketball courts, a running track, turf foot-

For houseplants and herbs, check out plant shop Found Things Co. Visit Artisan’s

ball fields and the Louis Mariani Peace

Venue for handmade gifts & décor. Deliver bouquets from James Flowers and F.R.

Garden. Eastwood Heights Park offers

Brice Florist. Spruce up your property with plants, supplies and help from Twin Oaks

the community garden, Spadafora &

Nursery. Buy or sell antiques and collectibles at The Antique Center of Syracuse,

Mazella Athletic Fields and Courts for

Hooches Antique Store & Furniture Refurbishing or Yesteryear’s Antiques and

baseball, basketball, soccer/lacrosse and

Collectibles. Books End specializes in rare, used and out-of-print books. Thumb

a memorial garden. Play lacrosse, soccer

through used books, vinyl and other formats of movies and music at Books & Melo-

or baseball or watch the Little League at

dies. Find specialty foods and other goods at Global African and Caribbean Market

Cummings Field. Norwood Park, where

and Sol Caribe Envios. Arts and Crafts movement enthusiasts will appreciate Dal-

the youth football team plays, has a play-

ton’s American Decorative Arts. Select art or have pieces framed at Business Art

ground. Sheridan Park has a small play-

& Framing. Get some body art at Working Class Tattoo, Siren Studios or Vessel

ground and features a monument to Sep-

Tattoo Company. Be dazzled by engagement rings, fashion accessories and jewelry

tember 11. Take a breather at pocket park

repair at Jewelry on James and Mars Jewelry. Stop into Sacred Melody for inspira-

Martineau Park and Greenway Veter-

tional and Christian gifts. Commission custom furniture or have your own repaired by

ans’ Memorial Park.

The Craftsman.

Annual events The Eastwood Neighborhood Association

Things to do

organizes the Eastwood Market Day, the

From story time to educational adult

Plaza for fun. The Frank DeFrancisco

Eastwood 5-Mile Run, the Curb Appeal

programming, the Paine Branch Library

Eastwood Community Center serves

Awards and Gala in the Garden. With

offers something for everyone. Catch a

all, especially seniors. Make friends and

the Palace Theatre, the association holds

show or concert at the independent Pal-

grow food at the Eastwood Community

the Holiday Tree Lighting and Movie

ace Theatre. Cheer on the kids at East-

Garden. Pair dance and faith at Light of

with free milk and cookies for kids. The

wood Youth Soccer. Tee up at Sunny-

the World Ballet. Train your mind and

American Legion puts on the Memorial

crest Golf Course for 9 holes of golf and

body at SAS Team Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Day parade. The Palace hosts a Rocky

footgolf. Skate or play ice hockey at the

Join the community-minded Eastwood

Horror Bash in October and the Salt City

Sunnycrest Arena. Skateboarders and

Rotary Club, American Legion Post or

Horror Festival.

BMX bikers hit the East Woods Skate

Eastwood Neighborhood Association.

J U LY/A U G U S T

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

75

76

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

J U LY/A U G U S T

CNY Scout

Stay tuned

BY AMY BLEIER LONG

As social gatherings and our favorite activities become possible again, musician and event producer Max Puglisi wants to create the next big thing by keeping it small and impactful.

culinary institutions in the region.”

To deliver a once-in-a-lifetime experience, Puglisi is focused

Puglisi is the executive producer of Stereo Dinner, a produc-

on curating best-in-class music, artists, food, restaurants and

tion group specializing in curated events that intertwine mu-

conversation. The atmosphere of each dinner will be influenced

sic, food and hospitality to create lasting sense memories. In the

by the style of music and aesthetic of an artist: Some genres play

way a certain scent or song can bring you back to a specific mo-

well to a down-home, casual setting versus a sound that lends

ment, Puglisi wants to layer flavors, aromas, music, ambience

itself to something more elevated and nuanced. Stereo Dinner

and interpersonal connection to create something unforgetta-

is developing partnerships with Central New York restaurants

ble. “We’re all hungering for this deeper connection,” he says.

— with proximity to concert venues — that have the capacity to

Puglisi spent several years in Syracuse, earning a degree in mu-

host a private event and develop a customized menu inspired by

sic industry and making his mark on the local scene. As restau-

a musician, possibly even in collaboration with the entertainer.

rants Alto Cinco and Otro Cinco’s entertainment manager, he

To build community around a common passion, Stereo Din-

spearheaded a successful live music series. He curated the live

ner will engage ticket holders and connect them with each oth-

entertainment for pop-up experience Infinite POP, bringing

er through social media in the weeks leading up to a Meet, Greet

in the GuitArchive Project to play lunch concerts and a dinner

and Eat event. The goal is to forge a connection beyond the mu-

where songs were paired to courses inspired by the guitarists’

sic between attendees to allow for an easy, comfortable interac-

styles. Puglisi saw real connections being made and realized he

tion at the communal dinner. Being truly present for a dialogue

was onto something.

between musician, chef and guests will create a bond strength-

He later lived in New York and Boston, serving as venue man-

ened by the sensory components of the meal.

ager for City Winery, a special events and concert venue that

Drawing on his expertise, Puglisi will present an interactive

houses a restaurant, bar and wine making facility. Among many

program educating guests on the flavors in the paired menu,

other skills he honed, he helped produce exclusive experiences

the performer’s aesthetic and the chef’s inspiration. “The over-

featuring big name musicians.

whelmingly positive feedback on the music and wine pairings

When Puglisi moved to Austin, Texas, in February, he reached out to talent booker Jon Weiss, with whom he had worked in

has been awesome so I’m stoked to level it up to bigger artists, utilizing that skill and putting my craft to their art,” he says.

New York. The pair began booking concerts and envisioning

Puglisi wants to pilot the group’s premium offering in Cen-

large events, and Oneonta-based Chris Lott joined to head up

tral New York because he says he feels closest to the community

creative and communications. After surveying the event land-

here. Between his understanding of our area and the partners’

scape, the trio founded Stereo Dinner to bring artists and ap-

collective expertise, he is confident that music fans will recog-

preciators together in meaningful ways.

nize the value in the level of exclusivity and access the dinners

Prior to the shutdown, Stereo Dinner presented a handful of

provide. Stereo Dinner is primed to launch these events as soon

wine and music pairing events, including one in January with

as phased re-openings allow for small group sizes to gather. He

a ‘70s soul theme at 443 Social Club & Lounge on Burnet Ave-

sees this as the direction post-virus event style will go: small,

nue. These evenings include a program that establishes a rela-

casual and very curated.

tionship between sounds and flavors.

PHOTO BY AMELIA BEAMISH

bread with their favorite artists and do so in some of the best

Puglisi is enthusiastic about the chance to build something

The team has been developing what will be their cornerstone

that will imprint in the hearts and minds of those who attend.

offering: intimate Meet, Greet and Eat events. Over 60 to 90 min-

“I love that food and music transport us and I’m interested in

utes, a multi-course dinner will be carefully designed for a ma-

magnifying that transportation,” he says.

jor recording artist performing in the area and up to 30 ardent followers. The concept, Puglisi says, “is to allow fans to break

For more information, visit stereodinner.com or follow Stereo Dinner on Facebook and Instagram.

Left, Stereo Dinner executive producer Max Puglisi

J U LY/A U G U S T

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

77

Craftsmanship that fuels exceptional taste.

Our passion for everything culinary is what inspires us, ignites the flame of imagination, and transcends the ordinary—so you’re empowered to create unforgettable experiences in the kitchen and beyond.

shop in store or at Olums.com Thermador ® Appliances at:

5775 Bridge Street Rt 690 to Exit 17 on the Corner of Erie Blvd

E. Syracuse, NY 13057 Mon. – Sat. 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Sun. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

APPLIANCES 78

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

J U LY/A U G U S T

Call/Text: (315) 414-2200

Farm to Table

Some like it hot

BY M J K R AV EC

Summer and hot dogs. They go together like corn on the cob and butter. Seems only fitting to put them in the spotlight along with local seasonal produce. Peppers are all over farmers markets and the perfect accompaniment to this dressed up version of a dog. We like the idea of pairing them with a longtime, local favorite like Hofmann. The sausage company has seen Americans through The Great Depression, two World Wars, 26 American Presidents, 27 World Titles Won by the New York Yankees and one COVID-19 Crisis. We think they can take the heat.

J U LY/A U G U S T

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

79

“Our company is over 140 years old. So when you bite into that recognizable snap of our ridiculously tasty hot dogs and sausages, you are experiencing a little bit of history,” says Rebecca

Choice of bun

Baker, chief marketing officer of Hofmann Sausage Company.

Hofmann Beef Frank

Along with its classic products, Hofmann also offers new choic-

Store-bought or homemade chipotle ranch mix

es that use ingredients like fresh jalapenos, tomatoes, ched-

2 cups Hidden Valley Original Ranch Dressing

dar cheese, garlic, roasted red peppers, apples, local beer and

¼ cup San Marcos canned Pepper Chipotle

more, says Baker. With grilling season in full swing, you can ex-

Lemon juice

periment with different toppings and flavor combinations like Hofmann’s recipes for Big Kahuna Luau Dog or Rueben Dog. “The traditional grilling season is from Memorial Day through Labor Day, when Americans typically consume 7 billion hot dogs.

Hofmann’s hot dogs and sausages are enjoyed year-round; however, we definitely experience high demand during the sumPHOTO COURTESY HOFMANN SAUSAGE COMPANY

FAJITA DOG

mer,” says Baker.

They’re hot stuff. For more creative topping ideas, go to hofmannsausage.com.

TO DRINK?

Jumbo yellow onion Red bell pepper Green bell pepper Fajita seasoning mix (optional) Homemade chipotle ranch mix instructions: Finely mince the canned chipotle pepper, making sure to transfer the adobo sauce packed with peppers.

Combine in a large bowl with ranch dressing and lemon juice and mix thoroughly. (To save time you can also use chipotle ranch dressing from the store.)

Fruit-flavored water, lemonade, traditional Margarita, Tecate®, Corona® Beer with lime or Corona Seltzers are all good options.

Onion and bell pepper mix instructions:

WHAT DOES IT PAIR WELL WITH?

Slice onions, red, green, yellow and orange bell peppers or whatever peppers are fresh and available. Sautee in large skillet until just soft, add fajita seasoning and transfer to bowl.

For a summer cookout, try them with classic coleslaw, baked beans, German potato salad, cut watermelon, grilled corn on the cob or corn salad.

Finish by squeezing chipotle ranch end-to-end on hot dog and follow with sautéed peppers and onions.

S9613968-01

J U LY/A U G U S T

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

81

Artist Profile

Art in the time of COVID-19 B Y K AT H E R I N E R U S H W O R T H

What does that look and feel like to an artist? For some it’s a time for introspection, for others a shifting of priorities and for others it’s just another day in the studio. I recently reached out to six Central New York artists and asked them, via email (to honor our social distancing directive), how these days of quarantine have affected their practices and senses of self. Exhibitions have been cancelled or postponed. Sales have dried up, but they all continue to work. The six artists replied to questions in very distinctive ways. Their responses have been edited for brevity.

Father and Son portrait by Donalee Peden Wesley

J U LY/A U G U S T

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

83

No Where To Run #1 Donalee Peden Wesley

No Where To Run #2 Donalee Peden Wesley

DONALEE PEDEN WESLEY: MARCELLUS

Since the quarantine I have been able to spend significantly more time

84

in the past; the plague mask, except now this image is of the moment, and carries with it a more deadly narrative.

in the studio. With extra time, I can

If there is one benefit or positive spin to this pandemic it

slow down with my decision making,

would be a cause that I have been supporting for a number of

techniques and mark making. This

years now. It is the exposure and hopefully the closure of all “wet

extra time has afforded me the luxu-

markets” worldwide.

ry to be present, fully aware, focused

NOTE: The “wet markets” Peden-Wesley refers to are markets

and mindful. I believe the practice

that sell fresh meat, fish, produce and other perishable products

will sustain beyond the isolation/shelter. I want to continue to

vs. dry markets that sell non-perishable goods. Some wet mar-

provide myself the time needed for the work to develop slowly.

kets sell wild animals and illegal wildlife. A wet market in Wu-

I have found myself driven to go back to an image I had used

han, China was suspected as being the source of the coronavirus.

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

J U LY/A U G U S T

House of Usher, 59x50, Susan Roth

Mary Giehl’s montage of face masks

SUSAN ROTH: CANASTOTA

MARY GIEHL: SYRACUSE

I began thinking that while the

My daily life has not really changed.

world is on pause I would work with

I exercise in the morning, then in the

no interruption, the work creating

studio by noon. My work now con-

the silver lining. Then I seeming-

sists mostly of making facemasks for

ly bumped into a wall, something I

friends and organizations such as the

have never experienced in the stu-

Food Bank, Meals on Wheels. I just

dio…hopelessness. Time does not

got a request for 100 facemasks for

return; there are no do-overs. Here

Peru, South America.

at Day 36 of our sequester, two paintings completed and much

Right now, this shelter in place is keeping me so busy making

reading accomplished, I have not been in the studio to paint in

facemasks that I have not been thinking about my art. I am think-

perhaps 10 days, each morning thinking I will. Like millions of

ing about those people on the front line trying to save peoples’

people worldwide, I will struggle to remember these times per-

lives. I worked as an ICU Registered Nurse 20 years ago. I think

sonal and historical to steady a way forward through the un-

about how I would be in the hospital taking care of COVID-19

seen. My work is my calling rather than choice; the joy of paint-

patients. Sometimes I wish I could still be there, but I cannot,

ing will continue, I am sure.

so making facemasks helps me cope with it.

J U LY/A U G U S T

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

85

Rose Colored Glasses, 43x50, by Darryl Hughto DARRYL HUGHTO: CANASTOTA

Note: Hughto had previously posted a narrative titled “A Time of Darkness,� from which I have drawn his response.

We can try to cheer ourselves up by painting light and happy subjects, but the best painting is painted from the feeling one has, not the feeling one would like to have. Paint whatever from the place where one is standing at the moment. If that place is dark, no matter what the subject you prefer to contemplate, the feeling of the now will affect.

I noticed black was more and more present in my paintings, but that was not new. So, as this had been occurring, I now wondered how the addition of this universal feeling of doom would affect. I first noticed the seas getting darker, the clouds more menacing and black sails hanging from the mast more often.

Now, it seems to me, the metaphor of my motif is a perfect vehicle for the angst of the moment.

86

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

J U LY/A U G U S T

Tempest, 35x46, by Darryl Hughto

Artist Ellen M. Blalock assembles a quilt

Grasshopper Louisiana Bayou Roger Demuth

ELLEN BLALOCK: SYRACUSE

ROGER DEMUTH: CAZENOVIA

I just want to wake up from this

PHOTO BY PATRICIA E. CLARK

nightmare. This cannot be real.

For the past three years I have taken on a large project to build a

Everything is at a standstill. In

room completely painted with oil

March and April I had an exhibition,

paintings, loosely based on the John

lectures and workshop scheduled.

Barrow rooms in the rear of the Ska-

All cancelled. My pockets are empty.

neateles Library. The 9’ by 12’ room

I tried to apply for the New York

will have paintings on the entire in-

grant for women artists over 50. It

side, including the floor and on the

had a three-day application window. By 2 p.m. on the first day,

outside of the room. The last wall in my room is “the end of the

they shut it down because of the overwhelming response. I ap-

world” wall. I use metaphors in my paintings and to me a me-

plied for other things and received emails saying the position

teorite means the end of the world. “Whatever is, will forever

is frozen and hope I am well.

be was,” is used to say that what we are familiar with in this life,

I do yard work on the pleasant days because it makes my part-

will never occur again. Both in life, architecture and the way we

ner happy. I hate yard work. Next nice day I will clean the gut-

live, things will change in a way no one ever imagined. I think

ters on the shed and work on the flower beds. I hate yard work.

this is becoming evident today.

My partner wanted me to make COVID-19 masks. I am the seam-

I’m looking forward to the day that our artists group can have

stress in the family, so I made about 35 masks for her family, my

lunch together at a local restaurant, talk about art, painting and

family and a few friends. We have relatives on the frontline and

life and schedule day trips to area museums and collections.

want them to know we are thinking about them.

I am making art. I don’t want to make COVID-19 art. It is in my head but I put it in back of the drawer. I am working on a piece about the Middle Passage and I want to start a piece on a dog named Rover.

J U LY/A U G U S T

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

87

Galleries ArtRage Gallery, The Norton Putter Gallery 505 Hawley Avenue, Syracuse, artragegallery.org. 2 to 7 p.m.

Wednesday-Friday, noon to 4 p.m. Saturday. Free. Temporarily closed. Check their website for updates.

Edgewood Gallery 216 Tecumseh Road, Syracuse. 315-445-8111, edgewoodartandframe.com. 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. TuesdayFriday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. Closed Sunday-Monday.

Free. Please wear a mask, observe proper social distancing.

Hand sanitizer, gloves and masks are available in the gallery.

Horses and Horizons: Collaborative work by Jim Ridlon and Alyson Markell. Equine and landscape imagery using a combination of painting and collage techniques with stylistic elements of abstract expressionism and impressionism. With Leslie Green Guibault’s ceramics in horse themes, Susan Machamer’s sterling and semi-precious stone jewelry. Through Aug. 7. Due to COVID-19, there will be no reception.

Geometric vs Organic. Abstract art with Barbara Kellogg’s acrylic paintings and Barb Bickford’s watercolor paintings; with textural ceramics with modern design by Mike Hughes and mixed media jewelry by Lily Tsay with architectural design influences. Aug. 14 through Sept. 25.

Due to COVID-19 there will be no reception.

Light Work Gallery, Kathleen O. Ellis Gallery at Light Work 316 Waverly Ave., Syracuse. 315-443-1300. Lightwork. org. 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Friday, 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday- Sunday and by appointment.

Free. Temporarily closed. Virtual exhibitions include:

Pacifico Silano: The Eyelid Has Its Storms….

Light Work is pleased to present The Eyelid Has Its Storms…, a solo exhibition of work by artist Pacifico Silano. Silano is a lens-based artist whose work explores print culture and histories of the LGBTQ community. Born in Brooklyn, NY, he received his MFA in Photography from the School of Visual Arts. He has exhibited in group shows at the Bronx Museum, Museo Universitario del Chopo in Mexico City, Oude Kerk in Amsterdam and Tacoma Art Museum. He has had solo shows at Baxter ST@CCNY, The Bronx Museum, Fragment Gallery in Moscow, Rubber-Factory and Stellar Projects. Reviews of his work have appeared in Aperture, Artforum, and The New Yorker. Silano’s awards include the Individual Photographer’s Fellowship from the Aaron Siskind Foundation, Finalist for the Aperture Foundation Portfolio Prize and First Prize at the Pride Photo Awards in Amsterdam. His work is in the Museum of Modern Art’s permanent collection. Through July 23.

2020 Newhouse Photography Annual. Hallway Gallery. Light Work is pleased to present the 2020 Newhouse Photography Annual, featuring work by photography students in S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University.

The exhibition represents various approaches to photographic practice and technique and showcases the range of images that today’s students are producing. Through July 23.

88

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

J U LY/A U G U S T

Everson Museum of Art 401 Harrison St., Syracuse. 315-474-6064, everson.org. Noon to 5 p.m. Wednesday and Friday, noon to 8 p.m. Thursday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. Closed Monday-Tuesday. $5 suggested donation. Temporarily closed.

Virtual exhibitions at everson.org include:

2020 Everson Teen Arts Council Exhibition. This exhibition features work made by Central New York high school students and curated by the Everson Teen Council through an open call for entries. Teen Council members collaborated to select a theme, curate works, and write wall text, teaching Council members how museum exhibitions come to life.

This exhibition is to be viewed virtually while we are temporarily closed due to COVID-19. Despite the unforeseen challenges and setbacks, our Teen Council remained committed to completing their curatorial project and appreciate the support of the Central New York community. We hope the virtual exhibition allows for greater access to their work and that you will enjoy viewing from the safety of your homes during this time.

Jim Ridlon: The Garden. An audio/visual explanation by Jim Ridlon himself on what inspired one of his greatest works.

Learn about the Everson! Virtual Architecture Tour: Learn about world-renowned architect I.M. Pei and how he approached the design for the Everson, his first museum project. Get the inside details on how the Everson was constructed, where materials were sourced, and what it has in common with the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C. Lacey McKinney Studio Tour. A virtual studio visit with CNY based artist Lacey McKinney, the McColl Center for Art Innovation Fall 2019 Artist-in-Residence. McKinney’s work calls out the underrepresentation of female artists, explores cultural inequalities and deconstructs the way that women are represented in modern imagery.

Barb Bickford’s watercolor paintings at Edgewood Gallery, Courtesy Edgewood Gallery

Help us support our staff as they support those who once cared for us The Loretto team has been working around the clock, responding to the continued impact of COVID-19 on our organization and our community. Help support our efforts as we work together to care for our residents, participants and staff in their hour of greatest need.

Your donation to our COVID-19 Relief Fund benefits our 2,500 employees, caring for the most vulnerable in our community.

Correction: In the May/June issue this image was incorrectly credited as Grazing

by Jim Ridlon. Grazing is a collaborative work by Jim Ridlon and Alyson Markell.

Onondaga Historical Association

Your gift provides the power to make ordinary, extraordinary.

lorettocny.org/donate

321 Montgomery St., Syracuse. 315-428-1864, cnyhistory. org. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday-Friday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Saturday and Sunday. Free but donations encouraged.

Temporarily closed. Visit cnyhistory.org for virtual exhibitions, storytelling, a look inside the OHA’s collection of items that haven’t been taken out in a while and more.

Stream Online. Pop some popcorn, grab your coziest blanket, kick your feet up, and stream any one of OHA’s videos and movies, including Emmy© Award-Winning Let ‘Em Know You’re There, available now on Amazon.

SU Art Galleries First floor of Shaffer Art Building, Syracuse University, Syracuse. 315 443-4097, galleries.syr.edu. 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, closed Monday. Free. Temporarily closed. Find virtual exhibitions at galleries.syr.edu/exhibition/virtual-exhibitions/

Domesticities: The Art of Daily Life. This exhibition explores the representation of domestic structures and spaces, their contents and the ways they intersect with the lives of those who inhabit them.

A Terrible and Exciting Age: Photography of W. Eugene Smith. Curated by art history M.A. students under the direction of Sascha Scott, this exhibition features Smith’s lesser-known photographs of industrial spaces from the late 1940s through the 1960s.

The Power to Make Ordinary, Extraordinary.

S9597286-01

J U LY/A U G U S T

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

89

Flashback

It’s Over!

BY THOMAS HUNTER

At 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 14, 1945, President Harry Truman announced that Japan had surrendered to the U.S. and its allies, thus ending World War II. Truman’s surrender announcement was “the best news in three and a half years,” and it triggered spontaneous victory celebrations around the country for millions of war-weary Americans who welcomed peace.

Likewise, Syracusans eager to end the war also impulsively celebrated on that Tuesday night as 150,000 citizens poured into downtown, blowing noisemakers, honking car horns, banging on pots and pans and playing patriotic songs in impromptu marching bands.

Members of the American Legion Squadron 41 Drum & Bugle Corps and the Dunbar Center Marching Band joined the improvised music makers as they partied along South Salina Street. Factory whistles blew and church bells rang. Locally stationed military servicemen snake danced and kissed unsuspecting women. Syracuse University students conveyed older vet-

It’s Over. VJ Day Celebration

erans around in an old surrey. Some mischief makers pulled fire alarms and ignit-

declared that “All Syracuse Goes Wild in

day that Japan signed the official surren-

ed gunpowder. Others imbibed alcoholic

Noisy Funeral for Hirohito” and “Good

der document. Rhode Island commemo-

beverages, but most remained sober and

Show As Syracuse Blows Off Lid.”

rated VJ Day on August 14 until 1966 and

well-behaved. Many observers shed tears

PHOTO COURTESY ONONDAGA HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION

of joy and sadness.

90

Mayor Kennedy proclaimed August 15

remains the only state to commemorate

as a civic holiday to observe the war’s end.

VJ Day, now called Victory Day, but now

After several hours of rejoicing, much

President Truman declared a two-day

observes it on the second Monday in Au-

of the throng had dispersed by 1 a.m. Re-

federal holiday. Between 1948 and 1975,

gust. August 2020 marks the 75th anniver-

calling the previous night’s frolicking, lo-

states officially observed Victory Over

sary of the first VJ Day observed in Syra-

cal newspapers’ headlines on Wednesday

Japan Day (VJ Day) on September 2, the

cuse and across America.

THOMAS HUNTER IS MUSEUM CURATOR AT ONONDAGA HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION.

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

J U LY/A U G U S T

The Last Word

With Michelle DaRin

BY M J K R AV EC

Normally you see Michelle DaRin with a torch making her signature jewelry in her Airstream trailer/studio, on a billboard overlooking Route 81 or on a runway at Syracuse Fashion Week. But these days, the jewelry designer/fashionista and yoga aficionado has started making masks from the rad fabric she had in storage. We caught up with her to discuss how she’s adjusted to the new normal and why she’s so grateful to Upstate Vacuum.

How have you been dealing/coping with all the social distancing guidelines?

Ah social distancing, a new part of our everyday vocabulary. These are interesting times. On a personal level my family and I have been staying home going out just for exercise and necessary runs like to post office and for food... For the most part we are all hunkered down and have been for weeks. As far as work goes, my mailbox has never seen so much action. I have had regular pickups out of my box and even random acts of kindness like clients picking up masks and jewelry and leaving me flowers and treats for my daughter, myself and our new puppy.

What time do you get up in the morning and how do you take your coffee? During the early part of quarantine my whole family’s schedule seemed to shift, everyone was sleeping in and staying up very late, totally out of whack.

It is still very sporadic. I am not a coffee drinker but my husband has a Breville espresso machine and one of our daily rituals has become him making me a decaf cappuccino.

So many businesses/people have had to reinvent what they do during the pandemic — What got you into mask making? Necessity truly is the mother of invention, once it became apparent that mask wearing was going to be with

The masks we’ve seen on Insta are amazing. Where

us for a while and I was going to have to wear one, I knew

do you get your inspiration/ideas from? The masks

it had to be cool. Fortunately, my sewing closet is not your

are really just an extension of my overall design sensibility.

grandma’s sewing closet. It is filled with all kinds of stuff.

The same themes you might see in a piece of my jewelry or

Like Mary Poppins, I kept pulling out anything I thought

my bags or jackets you will see in my masks. I am a color

would work… The pattern was made, then the sewing began.

junkie, so they are all very colorful. I love music and musical

I was getting so many messages and orders I was feeling very

references so you will see that in the masks as well. Again,

overwhelmed. Then my sewing machine broke. I had very

if we have to wear these things at least they can be colorful,

little elastic, so I had to improvise and started using very

fun and expressive. Lips have been a symbol I have used

large hair bands. With orders coming in and my machine

in my jewelry and on my jackets and bags so it just made

giving me a lot of trouble I had a few melt downs — almost

sense I would put them on my masks. Huge hit there!

threw my machine off my deck. Then I decided going for a run was a better option. Luckily, my sister in law let me

What are you most looking forward to when

borrow her machine until I could get my machine repaired

social distancing has been lifted? Going out

by the only guy in town — Upstate Vacuum was open!

with my friends to see some live music.

J U LY/A U G U S T

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

91

Š2019 Wood-Mode, Inc.

Create without compromise.

Whatever your inspiration, our experienced Wood-Mode design professionals will help you create the exact look you desire, for any room in your home.

Modern Kitchens of Syracuse 5801 Court Street Rd. at Military Circle Syracuse, NY • 315.437.1511 www.modernkitchens.com S9625308-01