Central New York Magazine January/February 2019

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M A G A Z I N E

YOUR GUIDE TO

COMFORT & JOY: AREA HOMES' COZY CORNERS PLUS, PLAN THE LOCAL WEDDING OF YOUR DREAMS

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I lost 135 lbs. and found my running shoes.

At 310 pounds, Sean had high blood pressure, high cholesterol, gout and sleep apnea — and was racing toward diabetes. Following weight-loss surgery at Crouse, he’s been pacing toward a whole new lifestyle. Slimmer and healthier (his conditions are gone), Sean has so far this year logged nearly 5 million steps!

He’s also found a caring and compassionate team, including trusted surgeons, nutritional experts and an active support group — plus ongoing follow up to keep him on the right path. Come to our next weight-loss surgery seminar to learn how you could follow in Sean’s footsteps.

crouse.org/weightloss A partnership with CNY Surgical Physicians

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FINEST SELECTION OF DECORATIVE TILE FOR FLOORS AND WALLS

Roma Tile is the one-stop tile & marble center for homeowners, contractors, interior designers and architects. We’re sensitive to the functional and custom artistic tile needs of our clients. We offer a unique library of tiles along with a large selection of Natural and Quartz Stone products. Our Premier 2-story showroom presents a wonderful opportunity to explore our endless selection.

Roma Tile & Marble www.romatileny.com

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

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WORLD CLASS CANCER EXPERTS. CLOSE TO HOME.

If you’re facing a diagnosis of cancer, turn to the experts at the Upstate Cancer Center. We provide the advanced knowledge, skills and leading technology found at the region’s only academic medical university.

Your multidisciplinary team of board-certified physicians meet with you to create your personalized treatment plan.

Upstate can offer more treatment options including robotic surgery, immunotherapy and clinical trials and the largest array of Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapies (SBRT) for precise treatment, fewer side effects and a faster recovery.

UPSTATE PROVIDES ANOTHER SIGNIFICANT BENEFIT TO PATIENTS AND THEIR FAMILIES — CARE CLOSE TO HOME, WITH CANCER SERVICES IN SYRACUSE, ONEIDA AND OSWEGO.

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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. Find your showroom hours online and stop by to explore.

SYRACUSE, NY 6792 Townline Road

S8899663-01

PRESIDENT Tim Kennedy VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES William Allison 315-470-2080 ballison@syracuse.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@syracuse.com DESIGNERS Susana Sanchez-Young Kimberly Worner

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

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 © 2019.

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.

INSPIRED • UNIQUE • TIMELESS Fine Art & Crafts by Local Artists

Paintings, photography, jewelry, pottery …and much more.

gallery54cny.com

315.685.5470 • 54 E. Genesee St., Skaneateles, NY Image by Tom Dwyer S8508266-06

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• Fat Fat Hat Hat • Clara ClaraS S •Joules ElliottHabitat Lauren

www.janemorganslittlehouse.com

• C om f y • Slims at ions • An6

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Connect with us on social!

@CNYMag @cnymagazine

Our next issue comes out in March S8914184-01

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Editor’s Letter EDITOR’S PICKS

THE WINTER PEOPLE

Can we get a hygge?

Settle in on a cold night with a good ghost story. The Winter People by Jennifer McMahon is best read under the covers. You’re sure to get chills.

W I N T E R IS O N E WA R M , M AG I CA L H U G .

I

love winter. I love dressing our yellow Lab Marla in her red sweater and taking long winter walks. I love when the sky turns gray before the snow falls. I love the ice crystals on bare branches that glitter in the moon-

light. And I love when winter draws its shades on the day early, telling you it’s time to go inside.

Yes, we endure long winters. But so do the Danish people, who are considered to be among the world’s happiest people. Many attribute this happiness to the concept of hygge, loosely translated as a feeling of cozy contentment and appreciation of the simple things in life.

In this issue of Central New York Magazine, we’ll help you see the happy side of winter. Our special hygge spin on the season features a pictorial display of cold weather splendor in CNY, a list of hiking and fireside dining hotspots

WALK IN THE WOODS Studies show getting outside is an instant mood booster—even in winter. See page 44 for our list of winter walk/snowshoeing trails.

and some ideas on how to indulge on a day spent at home.

In other features, tour some cozy corners in homes throughout Central New York with content editor Amy Bleier Long and visit area shops for wintery white accents and decor. Finally, our weddings guide highlights local venues for city and country lovers and looks at the latest trends in nuptials.

You’ll find a few new things in this issue too. I’m not going to tell you, because that takes the fun out of a good read. So, put on some coffee (it’s very hygge) and curl up with us by the fire. Here’s to a cozy season – dark days and all.

Cheers!

MJ mkravec@advancemediany.com 315-766-7833

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TEA COZY Even though Christmas is past, I love sipping Stash’s “Christmastime in Paris” with hints of chocolate, mint and lavender. The refined flavors make any tea time sophisticated – even if you’ve just come in from shoveling the driveway.

E M PAT H E T I C Women are intuitive and empathetic.

At St. Joseph’s Health, we’ve designed our Breast Care and Surgery Program to have these strengths, too. We’ve brought our services together, under one umbrella, and backed them with the mostexperienced surgeons and specialists in the region. Our Breast Care Navigators support you through the entire process, coordinating every facet of your diagnosis and treatment — while answering your questions and helping you process new information. We partner with St. Joseph’s Imaging to offer the latest technologies, caring for both your physical and emotional well-being.

HEALTH CARE FOR WOMEN THAT IS FEMALE

BY DESIGN | visit womenshealthsjh.org to learn more © 2018 St. Joseph’s Health. © 2018 Trinity Health. All rights reserved.

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Contents Features

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Winter Whites

Appreciating a deliberate lack of color on goods from CNY shops.

40

How to Hygge

Your guide to loving winter.

42

Season’s Splendor

A pictorial of nature’s cold beauty.

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Take a Hike

Winter walking/snowshoeing trails.

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By the Fireside

Dine by the fire at these CNY restaurants.

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Comfort & Joy

Tour some cozy corners in local homes.

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CNY Wedding Guide

A look at the area’s latest trends.

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78 Departments 8 Editor’s Letter 13 It’s All Good

What to savor in CNY now... Downtown Doings...

Caught Doing Good...

20 The Seen

A pictorial review of Central New York’s social gatherings.

76 Our Town

Live like a local in Baldwinsville.

78 CNY Scout

Letterpress stationery crafted in Syracuse.

81 Farm to Table

A winter salad with honey dressing from the Inn Between in Camillus.

84 Artist Profile

81

Meet photographer Gregory Heisler.

88 CNY Art

What’s on display at Central New York galleries.

90 Flashback

Byrd Snow Cruiser lumbers through Skaneateles in 1939.

91 The Last Word

With Rosamond Gifford Zoo’s snow leopard keeper Seth Groesback.

84 J A N UA R Y/ F E B R UA R Y

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THE FRIENDS OF THE CENTRAL LIBRARY PRESENTS THE ROSAMOND GIFFORD LECTURE SERIES 2018-2019

LOUISE PENNY

DAVID GRANN

Mar. 4, 2019

This former radio host and journalist with the CBC is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Chief Inspector Armand Gamache mystery series.

Apr. 2, 2019

Best-selling author of Killers of the Flower Moon: The Osage Murders and the Birth of the FBI, a 2017 National Book Award finalist.

COLM TÓIBÍN

May 7, 2019

Irish novelist, short story writer and poet Colm Tóibín has been shortlisted three times for the Man Booker Prize.

All lectures start at 7:30 p.m.

MULROY CIVIC CENTER ONCENTER Crouse Hinds Theater 411 Montgomery St., Syracuse

foclsyracuse.org Tickets purchased in person at Oncenter Solvay Bank Box Of ce, 760 S. State St., Syracuse, save on service fees.

Call 315-435-2121 for info; M-F, 10-5; Sat 9-1 Student tickets $10 with ID

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Watch for our 25th Anniversary Season events for 2019-2020!

It’s All Good

Winter fresh C O L D A N D I C E CA N B E S O N I C E .

L I G H T A F I R E (O R A CA N D L E) A N D T U R N U P T H E S O F T JA Z Z . H E R E’ S H OW TO SAVO R T H E S E AS O N N OW.

BY M . J . K R AV EC

YES, EUC CAN Pick up bunches of eucalyptus from the grocery store and display in a vase. Not only is it pretty to look at, but the scent is refreshing and stress-relieving.

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It’s All Good

BUCK UP Faux antlers add rustic, natural beauty to a shelf or mantel, suggesting the feel of a winter cabin.

SNOW CATS Visit the Rosamond Gifford Zoo during Snow Leopard Days, now through Feb. 28. During January and February, admission to the zoo is half price.

PINE FOR YOU Pick up pinecones during your next winter walk and display in a vintage wooden bowl or basket. Add a string of white fairy lights for a touch of winter magic.

KNIT PICK Take up knitting as a hobby. A basic scarf is easy enough to start with.

Look for lessons at local yarn stores.

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SOUND OF ROMANCE Part of Symphoria’s Pop Series, My Funny Valentine features jazz classics, pop ballads and numbers from stage and screen performed by Ireland’s foremost trumpet player, Niall O’Sullivan and vocalist Shóna Henneberry.

Tickets at experiencesymphoria.org.

GO UNDER COVER Indulge yourself with a faux fur or cable knit throw. Toss over the arm of a chair to add winter cabin warmth and stay toasty on a cold night.

FROZEN FUN Cazenovia Winterfest features snow sculpting, ice skating, an ice fishing derby, a talent show, a sleigh rally, food and more throughout the village of Cazenovia. Feb. 7-10. Visit cazenoviachamber.com.

YOU GO, COCOA

SKI-DO Peruse local antique shops for vintage snowshoes or skis. Display in a corner or hang on a wall for a look that’s playful and rustic.

Diss the Swiss Miss and make your own cocoa. Mix 2 tsp. of cocoa powder, 2 tbsp. sugar and dash of salt. Heat one cup of milk and stir in dry ingredients.

Add ¼ tsp vanilla and stir.

We like ours with mini marshmallows, thanks.

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It’s All Good DOW NTOW N DOINGS

BY LINDSEY SABADO

Paying it forward H OW O N E SY R AC U S E C O F F E E S H O P H A N D L E S H O M E L E S S PAT R O N S

The notorious video showed a Dunkin’ Donuts employee dump-

thought, ‘How can we serve our community?’ There’s Strathmore,

ing water on a man seated at a table. Dunkin’ fired two employ-

there’s downtown. There’s also these people walking right by us

ees, who apologized for the incident in a video on Syracuse.com.

who may not be able to afford it.”

Since then, people from Syracuse and beyond have spoken out

According to Metthe, community members regularly contrib-

about the treatment of the homeless. Protestors gathered outside

ute to the pay-it-forward board. People redeem the tokens every

the Dunkin’ Donuts to support Jeremy Dufresne, the homeless

day, he said. Some customers pay for a token weekly. One woman

man who has since told syracuse.com that he was charging his

from the Strathmore neighborhood buys a dozen tokens at a time.

phone to call his mother when the incident occurred. Local favorite Glazed and Confused donut shop gave out 1,000 donuts to homeless shelters in Syracuse. The “We Rise Above the Streets” homeless outreach program helped distribute.

But on the other side of the city, another coffee shop has been quietly helping the homeless population for over a year without any attention on social media.

Salt City Coffee, a privately owned coffee shop on West Onondaga Street, has been welcoming people in need since it opened

“We’ve never turned down someone who asked for a cup of coffee and didn’t have money,” Metthe said.

Like other businesses in Syracuse, Salt City Coffee encounters people who stand in the parking lot or enter the coffee shop to ask customers for money.

“There’s really not a whole lot to do about it,” said Metthe.

“We’ve brought them in. I know each of them personally because I’ll bring them in and offer them coffee [or a] bagel, talk to them, tell them what the rules are.”

in March 2017. Owner Aaron Metthe started a system that makes

Though what happened at Dunkin’ Donuts is unfortunate, Met-

it easy for patrons to “pay it forward.” Customers can purchase

the said he’s proud of the response in Syracuse. The community

a token for the price of a bagel or small coffee. Salt City Coffee

“found a way that makes a bad situation into a learning experi-

employees hang the tokens on the menu board and cash them

ence and raises awareness for the homeless in our community.”

in when someone in need comes through the line.

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“Some people have dubbed this the Rescue Mission corridor,” said Metthe referring to the nearby outreach center. “I just

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

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PHOTOGRAPH BY LINDSEY SABADO

Last fall, a video taken at the Dunkin’ Donuts on North Salina Street in Syracuse went viral for all the wrong reasons.

Exclusive stores Luxury brands More than 170 specialty shops

Athleta l LEGO l L.L. Bean l Madewell l Soft Surroundings l Von Maur

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It’s All Good CAUGHT DOING GOOD

BY SUSAN KENNEDY

Joyce Suslovic: Life lessons

It’s 4 p.m. on a Wednesday, and students in Henninger High

run a Regents Exam tutoring program when home on break. “I

School history teacher Joyce Suslovic’s classroom are buzzing

love tutoring,” says Wait. “I want to make sure every city student

with questions about their futures in college. “I sit back and

goes on to college.” Wait says he’s guided by one principle: “Do

look at them and it’s amazing,” says Suslovic.

what you can to help one another, every day.”

“Her vibe, you can just mix with it. I can talk with her about anything,” says Jidow Omar, a Somalian refugee. Suslovic helps students with job applications, encourages them to speak up and speak out and gives them rides home from school when

dents’ tutoring. “I listen to the sound of teaching and there’s no better thing in the world.”

“My own kids are grown. I now have nothing but time,” says Suslovic. And she fills every minute.

needed. “She’s like a second mother,” says Isaac Kiiza, who fled

After class recently, she hosted a college information session,

Uganda and the Congo with his family. “There’s no lying. She’ll

helped students sort their financial aid forms and drove a van

be honest with you.”

full of teens to OnPoint for College to ensure they met an ap-

For these students, Suslovic says, “I present consistency. I

plication’s deadline. After returning to school to cheer for stu-

have expectations.” She insists her students behave profession-

dents in the soccer game, she arrived home at 9:30 p.m. to be-

ally, work hard and ask for help.

gin grading papers.

“Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness,” Suslovic

“Their hard work makes me want to work harder and chal-

says. Most important, she says, is that students learn to help others.

lenge them even more. It’s a mutually rewarding experience.

And they do. Two of Suslovic’s former students, Moo Kpo Lo

When everyone does their best, the results can be outstanding.”

Wait and Kwitonda Nshimiye, both engineering students at RIT, 18

“It takes my breath away,” says Suslovic of her refugee stu-

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PHOTOGRAPH BY MICHAEL GREENLAR

But it’s Suslovic who the students believe is amazing.

Mark and Karla Hall stand on the porch of their home in Jamesville.

One of the things that has been critical to us as we age is living by example. Our common threads of love for family, devotion to faith and dedication to improving our community led us to establish a donor-advised fund at the Community Foundation.

Through our giving, we hope to provide opportunities for people to better themselves and know that somebody else cares. With the help of our fund, we will enrich the local community that we care so passionately about.

Inspirational Giving:

Mark & Karla Hall

The Community Foundation staff has always been there to support us. They are a part of our family.

It’s gratifying to share in our vision with them.

since 1927

Read more of the Halls’ story at CNYCF.org/Hall

cnycf.org (315) 422-9538

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The Seen 27TH ANNUAL MS. ORANGE FAN® LUNCHEON

10.21

Nearly 800 women gathered at The Oncenter in Syracuse for the 27th annual Ms. Orange Fan Luncheon, a ladies-only event supporting Make-A-Wish Central New York. Attendees had the chance to meet and greet the Syracuse University Men’s basketball team and coaching staff, place bids for players to sit with them for lunch during a live player auction, have their photos taken with Coach Boeheim in a special photo booth and bid on high-end basket raffles and event merchandise. The event also featured a Henry Wilson Jewelers raffle and a special autograph session. The event netted more than $100,000 and brought the total raised in its 27-year history to more than $1.5 million.

Proceeds support the cost of local wishes for children with critical illnesses.

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1 . Board member Debra Rao and her

daughter, Stephanie Drapas.

2 . Juli Boeheim at the 2018 Ms. Orange Fan

Luncheon. The event was initiated by Syracuse University Men’s Basketball Coach Jim Boeheim in 1992 and has been supported each year by Jim, Juli and the entire S.U. Men’s basketball team and coaching staff.

3. Wish kid Georgena Elliott with Emcee Matt Park.

4. Pictured from left, wish kids Lilianah Winship, Gabriella Laubisch, Aryanna O’Hara, Amelia Spencer and Georgena Elliott.

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5. Voice of the

Orange Matt Park introducing wish kids at the start of the 2018 Ms. Orange Fan Luncheon.

6 . The highest bidding table won a photo opp with the entire Syracuse University Men’s basketball team and coaching staff.

7. Eager bidders during the live player auction 2018 Ms. Orange Fan Luncheon.

8. Pictured from left, Lisa Brink, Make-AWish Central New York Board Member Lisa White and CNY Central News Anchor Lisa Spitz.

PHOTOGRAPH BY BILL HERLOSKI

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The Seen

CROUSE HEALTH TRIBUTE EVENING

09.21

William “Bill” Loftus, MD was honored at the 42nd annual Crouse Health Tribute Evening at The Oncenter Nicholas J. Pirro Convention Center. Nearly 1,200 guests enjoyed an extended reception, gourmet dinner, tribute presentation and entertainment by Atlas. Net proceeds of $420,000 were announced to benefit Crouse Health’s mission to provide the best in patient care and promote community health. Dr. Loftus is a beloved obstetrician-gynecologist who has served on the Crouse Hospital Medical Staff for nearly five decades. Well-respected by his physician colleagues, Crouse Health staff members, and patients, Dr. Loftus has delivered over 15,000 babies at Crouse Hospital during his decades of service. He currently practices with Loftus, Ryu & Bartol MD’s, PC. Crouse Health Tribute Evening proceeds will be used to support the work of Crouse Health Foundation including purchasing special equipment, underwriting new initiatives and funding educational programs and scholarships.

1 . Crouse Health Tribute Evening honoree

Bill Loftus, MD with his Loftus, Ryu & Bartol, MDs colleagues.

2 . Crouse Health Tribute Evening Medical Staff Committee Chair Shawky Badawy, MD congratulates honoree Bill Loftus, MD.

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PHOTOGRAPH BY ©2018RONTRINCAPHOTOGRAPHY

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1 . Scenes from the 42nd annual Crouse

Health Tribute Evening.

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The Seen

LE MOYNE COLLEGE FOUNDERS’ DAY GALA

10.19

A record crowd of nearly 750 was in attendance at Le Moyne’s Founders’ Day Gala at Le Moyne College.

Over the past 10 years, the event has generated $3.5 million to benefit Le Moyne students. The theme of the 2018 gala was a “Lifetime of Legacies” in recognition of the College’s many third-generation families.

1 . A surprise announcement made at the event was a $7 million gift from the McNeil family, one of the College’s third-generation families.

From left are Kate CostelloSullivan, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Le Moyne, Provost Joe Marina, S.J., Mary McNeil, MBA ‘08, Dan McNeil Jr. ‘51, Dan McNeil III ‘77, Lauren Davis ‘08 and Derek Davis ‘08.

2 . The Jazzuits, Le Moyne’s student a capella group, were among the students who provided entertainment at the event.

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PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF LE MOYNE COLLEGE

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3. The Simon Le Moyne

Award, the College’s highest honor, was presented to the Schoeneck family.

Pictured with the award are, from left, Le Moyne President Linda LeMura, Kathy (Schoeneck) Powers ‘86, Debbie (Schoeneck) Monaco ‘76, Therese (Sharpe) Schoeneck ‘54, and event co-chair Rich Baldwin ‘12.

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4. Members of the Schoeneck family, a third-

generation Le Moyne College family, gather for a group shot at the gala.

5. Among those in attendance, from left, senior Mahamadou Jagana, George Coyne S.J., McDevitt Distinguished Chair in Physics at Le Moyne, and senior Jeffry Mateo.

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The Seen

ELMCREST 8TH ANNUAL CHILD @ HEART AWARDS

10.18.18

Elmcrest presented its 8th Annual Child @ Heart Awards at the Grand Ballroom, Marriott Syracuse Downtown. This year’s honorees were Sen. John A. DeFrancisco, deputy majority leader of the 50th NYS Senate District; Bob and Sue Crichton, founders of Casey’s Place; and Kathleen Allen with Tops Friendly Markets. The event pays tribute to people who have made a significant difference in the lives of children and families in Central New York.

Elmcrest serves 2,500 children and families each year in the CNY community. Its programs serve children with emotional, behavioral and psychiatric disturbances, developmental disabilities and severe medical conditions. Elmcrest also operates Casey’s Place, a respite for families whose children

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1 . Children who respite at Casey’s Place, from left, Eliza Anderson, Jessica Nagy, Matt McMahon

and Andrew Kuss, enjoy the awards dinner honoring Casey’s Place founders.

2 . Honorees, from left, included Bob Crichton, Sue Crichton, Sen. John DeFrancisco,

Kathleen Allen, and Elmcrest Executive Director, Joseph Geglia

3. From left, Mary Bergstraesser with husband Steve, Elmcrest board member,

and Yvonne Annese LoRe, Elmcrest board president.

4. Elmcrest board member, Nicole Gait with Barbara Rivet, Kevin Eldred and Cheri Scicchitano.

5. John Desko, Cindy Desko, Elmcrest board member, Joseph LoRe and Mary Beth and William Donovan.

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PHOTOS COURTESY ELMCREST

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have severe disabilities.

The Seen

FESTIVAL OF TREES PREVIEW GALA

11.29

The Everson Museum of Art Members’ Council opened its 33rd annual Festival of Trees with a preview gala. More than 100 trees, wreaths and holiday displays were on exhibit. The event is one of the Everson’s most important fundraisers.

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PHOTOS COURTESY EVERSON MUSEUM OF ART

1 . Guests gather in

the Museum’s decorated entry hall.

2 . More than 100 festive trees were on display.

3. A trio of evergreens lights up the Museum’s exterior.

4. Guests enjoy hors d’oeuvres at the event.

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5. Everson Museum staff members

Madalyn Ledesma, Elizabeth Bryson and Kimberly Griffiths.

6. Helene Starr takes a photo of Michele Mider and David Redding.

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The Seen

SAMARITAN CENTER’S THE POUR

10.13.18

The Pour, the annual fall tasting extravaganza to benefit the Samaritan Center was held at The Red Barn 20 in Cazenovia. Honorary chairs were Todd and

OPEN HOUSE

Amy Caputo. The Mere Mortals provided live entertainment, while guests enjoyed food and beverages from Dinosaur BBQ, Carrabba’s Italian Grill, Liehs and Steigerwald, Vince’s Gourmet Imports, Mario’s Bakery, Empire Brewing Company, Middle Ages Brewing Company, Via Napoli Express Wood Fired Pizza, Owera Vineyards, Ironwood Coffee, Gannon’s Ice Cream, Bull & Bear, Cheeky Monkey Foods, The Toast, Original Grain and Full Boar. Sponsors of the event included Sun Auto Group, Welch Allyn, Murphy and Nolan, Inc., Carrier, Key Bank, Passive Capital Management, Sysco, CNY Services, Gale Gale & Hunt, Haun, SOS, Blue Ocean and Excellus.

FEBRUARY 10 2-4 PM www.mssyr.org 315.449.9033

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Pour enjoyed live music, local food, and an extensive silent auction.

2 .Honorary chairs Amy Caputo, left, and Todd Caputo with Katie Costa Reinhardt, volunteer and Pour committee member.

3. From left, Ellen Miller, Mary Michaels, Mike Michaels, Charlie Miller, Julie Cecile and James Cecile.

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World-Class Montessori CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

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PHOTOGRAPHS BY PAUL CARMEN

1 . Attendees of The

The Seen

PHOTOGRAPH BY PAUL CARMEN PHOTOGRAPHY

SYRACUSE SOUNDS OF MUSIC AWARDS DINNER

10.18

The Syracuse Sounds of Music Association presented the annual Ovation Award to Vicki Feldman for her advocacy, dedication and commitment to the Central New York music community. The dinner and silent auction event at the Genesee Grande Hotel was emceed by SSMA President Donna McCann and Lou Lemos. Sar Shalom-Strong, the Symphoria Wind Quintet and String Quartets provided musical entertainment. The Syracuse Sounds of Music Association is a nonprofit organization that, through fundraising events and the Encore Thrift Shop in Fayetteville, annually awards grant funds to Central New York non-profit music organizations, including $1000 scholarships to two area high school seniors planning to study instrumental, vocal, or music education in college.

Symphoria string quartet members, from left, Peter Rovit, Heidi Hoffman and Sonja Stith Williams with Vicki Feldman and quartet member Arvilla Wendland.

REST EASY IN THE NEW YEAR with custom bedding available at THE FABRIC MILL 5900 E SENECA TURNPIKE, JAMESVILLE, NY, 13078 315-492-0336 Mon – Fri 10-6, Sat – 10-4 www.thefabricmillcny.com fabricmill@decorwindowfashions.net

WE DO CUSTOM:

Window Treatments, Hunter Douglas, Home Décor Fabrics, Bedding, Upholstery, Custom Furniture, Pillows, & More S8905385-01

Wallpaper, Fabrics & Furniture Designs © Thibaut Inc.

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Tisbury Collection

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BEAR WITH ME Bear honey jar, $24.99, Paola Kay Gifts, 105 Brooklea Drive, Fayetteville, 315-632-2192.

Winter Whites

T H E R E IS A CA L M B E AU T Y I N T H E A B S E N C E O F C O LO R . S H A D E S O F W H I T E A N D PA L E N EU T R A L S G I V E YO U R E Y E A P L AC E TO R E ST A N D A C H A N C E TO A P P R EC I AT E FO R M A N D T E X T U R E . T H E S E A R E S O M E O F O U R FAVO RI T E PI C KS FO R S E R E N I T Y N OW.

BY AMY BLEIER LONG

PHOTOGRAPHS BY AMELIA BEAMISH

HANG TIGHT Macramé plant holder with plant and ceramic pot, $90, Skaneateles 300, 2. W. Genesee Street, Skaneateles, 315-685-1133, skaneateles300.com.

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MARKET GAIN Handcrafted leather market tote in natural, $198, The Local Branch, 4 Jordan Street, Skaneateles, thelocalbranch.co.

BAG OF TRICKS Mini Winter Emergency Kit, $25, Lillie Bean, 57 Albany Street, Cazenovia, 315-655-0677.

HAVE A BALL Ball mirror, $110, Paola Kay Gifts.

BLANKET STATEMENT Natural wood farmhousestyle blanket ladder, $35, 1681 Creative, 1681creative. com. Heavenly winter white blanket, $95, Nest 58, 58 E. Genesee Street, Skaneateles, 315-685-5888, nest58.com.

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FUR EVER Faux fur knit poncho, $75, Dazzle, 119 W. Seneca Street, Manlius, 315-682-7499.

TRAY CHIC Silver Medallion Coco tray, $48.95, 20|East, 85 Albany Street, Cazenovia, 315-6553985, 20-east.com.

LOOKIE, COOKIE Textured Pantry Canister, $32.95, à la Maison, 25 Syracuse Street, Baldwinsville, 315-638-1955, alamaisonaccents.com.

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PICTURES PERFECT “I Like You, I Love You,” $12.95, Lillie Bean.

BOTTLED UP Birch bottle vase, $6.99, The Station, 603 E. Seneca Street, Manlius, 315-682-8741.

PRIDE OF PLACE Happy Place pillow, $34.99, The Changing Room, 425 S. Warren Street, Syracuse, 315-299-4320.

THAT’S A WRAP Brushed jersey blanket/wrap with pom poms, $98, Cate & Sally, 4 E. Genesee Street, Skaneateles, 315-685-1105, cateandsally.com.

WARM FUZZIES JEWEL STONE Nicely Neutral matte riverstone beaded bracelet, $35, The Fashion Rescue 911 Boutique, 52 Oswego Street, Baldwinsville, 315-857-6690, fashionrescue911.com.

Get Toasty hand warmer in blush, $15.99, Metro Home Style, 689 N. Clinton Street, Syracuse, 315-420-2335, metrohomestyle.net.

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SNACK DECISION Snack bowls, $9 each, Pomodoro, 61 E. Genesee Street, Skaneateles, 315-685-0085.

SWEATER WEATHER Mohair pullover, $455, Skaneateles 300.

SAY CHEESE Marble Swiss cheese board, $85 includes mouse spreader, Nest 58.

PRETTY POTTERY

OH, LOLLIPOP

PINS AND KNEADERS Hand-turned hard maple rolling pins, $12-35 depending on size, 20|East.

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Amborella Organics Champagne & Roses edible flower lollipop with plant-able seedling stick, $2.50, Drooz + Company.

LOLLIPOP PHOTOGRAPH BY HEATHER COLLINS

Peruvian handcrafted ceramic bowl, $75, and salad tongs, $19.99, Paola Kay Gifts.

LIGHT HOUSE White lantern with copper top, $39,99, The Station, 603 E. Seneca Street, Manlius, 315-682-8741.

PLANT THE SEED Octogon pots, small $11.99, large $19.99, The Station.

SIMPLE MEASURES Measure cup set, $20, Drooz + Company, 36 E. Genesee Street, Skaneateles, 315-920-8888, droozandcompany.com.

WHAT’S COOKING

PET PROJECT

Chasseur oval cast-iron baker, $209, à la Maison.

Silkscreened cat pillow, $34.95, Enjoy, 419 E. Genesee Street, Fayetteville, 315-637-3450.

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SPONGE WORTHY Triple butter body wash-infused buffer in Tea Blossom, $20, Dazzle.

ABSTRACT NATURE

PLUSH ONE Faux-fur plush winter white jacket, $79, The Fashion Rescue 911 Boutique.

DISTRESSED DECOR London Royal Botanical Garden Kew pot $75, The Station.

HOOP DREAMS Silk Double Hoop earrings, $205, Skaneateles 300.

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ARTWORK PHOTO BY STUDIO 245; SIERRA HAT PHOTO BY HANNAH FREDRICK, H.F. PHOTO

“Poetic Stance” 18-inch by 18-inch encaustic, oil pigments, silverleaf on birch panel, $725 framed, Linda Bigness at Cazenovia Artisans, 39 Albany Street, Cazenovia, 315-655-2225, cazenoviaartisans.com.

TEXTURED TOPPER Sierra hat in barley, $36, Serene and Evergreen, Utica, sereneandevergreen.co.

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HYGGE: A Danish and Norwegian word for a mood of coziness and comfortable conviviality with feelings of wellness and contentment.

BY M J K R AV EC

What’s that Central New York? Winter bumming you out? You should know that the Danish, who also endure long, dark winters, are considered by many to be among the world’s happiest people. If you’re not happy about our winters, let us introduce you to the Danish concept of hygge. hygge (pronounced hue-gah), it’s a feeling of coziness, contentment and an appreciation for life’s simple gifts.

Think of a fireplace while a winter storm rages outside. Hot soup on the stove. The static from a vinyl record. On the following pages, you’ll find plenty of ways to bring out the hygge in you. From a pictorial feature on the beauty of CNY’s winters to hiking hotspots and fireside dining. So, curl up with us and pull out a faux fur throw. Now, isn’t that better?

Build a fire or light some candles. If you’re lucky enough to have a fireplace or a wood or gas stove, gather around. If you don’t have access to any of those, light candles. For even more ways to be by a fire, check out our feature on fireside dining on page X.

Start something in the kitchen. Make chicken soup or bacon corn chowder. Bake snowball cookies, apple pie or pumpkin bread. Fill your home with hearty aromas that trigger memories of the coziness of home.

Bring out the board games like Clue, Sorry,

Make it a movie day. When it’s cold outside,

chess or checkers. Create a game space in front

give yourself permission to stay home curled up

of the fire with pillows and blankets or build a

with a snowy movie. Some suggestions: Crim-

game fort by hanging sheets and fairy lights, then

son Peak, The Day After Tomorrow, The Chronicle

pile in the pillows.

of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe,

SHUTTERSTOCK PHOTOS

Everest, The Grey, Fargo, Frozen, Groundhog Day, The Thing and Winter’s Tale. And if those don’t Slip into some comfy loungewear or stay in

warm you up, there’s always Hallmark Channel.

your pajamas. At the very least, put on a pair of warm, socks and savor the feeling of soft, fuzzy material against your skin. See on page X on how to spend your day PJ chic.

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A Winter’s Morning at Emerson Park in Auburn.

Hazy shades of winter Here are some interesting stats: The Weather Channel says we’ll average about 121 inches of snow this year. And that makes us the no. 1 snowiest big city. If you don’t like snow, here’s a look at CNY in all its sparkling, snowy splendor. It’s enough to make you look on the brrrright side. Sorry. We’ll stop. Now, go make yourself some tea.

BY M . J . K R AV EC

Creek freeze in CNY. PHOTOS BY KEVIN RIVOLI, DENNIS NETT AND MICHAEL GREENLAR

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“I wonder if the snow loves the trees and fields that it kisses them so gently? And then it covers them up snug, you know, with a white quilt; and perhaps it says, ‘Go to sleep, darlings, till the summer comes again.’”

- LEWIS CARROLL

Frosted leaves in Fleming.

Lamp post on ice at Emerson Park in Auburn.

Snow covered berries on a tree on Hillside Street in Syracuse.

A yellow house stands out from winter hues in Fleming.

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Stop by woods on a snowy day The British author and adventurer Ranulph Fiennes said: “There is no bad weather, only inappropriate clothing.” In other words, you can go outside in practically any weather, just be sure to dress warm.

Here are five spots for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing or just walking through and appreciating winter and all her cold beauty. Bundle up.

BY M . J . K R AV EC

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ONEIDA SHORES PARK

BEAVER LAKE

9400 Bartell Road, Brewerton 315-676-7366 onondagacountyparks.com

8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville 315-638-2519 onondagacountyparks.com

The McKinley Ridge Trail features gorgeous views of Oneida Lake. Snowshoeing, cross-country skiing. A beginner’s trail through forest and clearing is about ¾ mile long, with access from the parking lot at West McKinley Shelter. Bring your own skis as rentals are not available. Dogs allowed.

With nine miles of trails around a 200-acre glacial lake, you can wander wooded areas and clearings while gazing up through the treetops.

There are three separate trails for snowshoeing and rentals are available. Afterwards, warm up in the visitors lounge with hot chocolate or coffee. And be sure to stop by the window into the woods to watch winter birds.

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“To appreciate the beauty of a snowflake it is necessary to stand in the cold.”

—ARISTOTLE

SUNNYCREST PARK Sunnycrest Road, Syracuse 315-473-4330 syrgov.net

CAMILLUS ERIE CANAL PARK

GREEN LAKES STATE PARK,

5750 Devoe Road, Camillus 315-488-3409 eriecanalcamillus.com

7900 Green Lakes Road, Fayetteville 315-637-6111 nysparks.com

More than 10 miles of wooded paths and historic sites including the 1844 Nine Mile Creek Aqueduct. You can snowshoe, crosscountry ski or just walk. Bring your dog too.

Get out on the forest trails featuring two glacial lakes and an 18-hole Robert Trent Jones Golf Course that turns into a winter wonderland for snowshoeing. There are also 15 miles of ungroomed trails for cross-country skiers. Dogs allowed.

HIGHLAND FOREST 1254 Highland Park Rd, Fabius, 315 683-5550 onondagacountyparks.com

High on a hilltop, with more than 40 miles of cross-country ski trails and a 500-foot slope for sledding and snowboarding, Highland offers a variety of activities, including horse-drawn sleigh rides on weekends.

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PHOTOS BY KEVIN RIVOLI, DENNIS NETT AND MICHAEL GREENLAR

Snowshoeing in the country right in the city.

If the weather’s too frightful, head indoors for ice skating instead.

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By the fireside Nothing says cozy like a crackling fireplace. Pair it with a scrumptious meal, a sublime wine, and spring will be here before you know it. (But if it’s not, don’t blame us!) Until then, here are eight restaurants that will keep you well-fed and warm.

BY SANDI MULCONRY

Brae Loch Inn 5 Albany St., Cazenovia, 315-6553431, braelochinn.com/dining Open 5-9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 5-10 p.m.

Friday and Saturday, 10:30 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday

The Brae Loch Inn has five fireplaces, and dining rooms with lots of “nooks and crannies” in which to enjoy their creative American cuisine. For a special occasion, book a Romantic Getaway and stay overnight in a room with a fireplace.

Jan. 25-27 is Robert Burns Weekend, featuring Celtic music, Scotch tasting and Scotch finger foods (Friday night); a seven-course traditional Scottish meal, complete with bagpipers, Highland and Irish Step dancers, strolling minstrels and poetry readings (Saturday night); and a Scottish brunch (Sunday).

The Brewster Inn 6 Ledyard Ave., Cazenovia, 315-655-9232, thebrewsterinn.com

This historic mansion on the southern end of Cazenovia Lake—the recipient of awards from DiRoNA (Distinguished Restaurants of North America) and Wine Spectator—features a large fireplace in the lobby and gas fireplaces in two of its dining rooms. Many of its 17 guest rooms have fireplaces and Jacuzzis, and in winter, you get 30 percent off all food and beverages in the restaurant with an overnight stay. Chef’s Table dinners, tasting menus that are prepared in front of you, are offered most Fridays. Past themes have included Peruvian, truffles, game meats and Spanish tapas.

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PHOTOS COURTESY BRAE LOCH INN, THE BREWSTER INN

Open 5-9 p.m. Monday through Saturday, noon-9 p.m. Sunday

“The fire is winter’s fruit.”

PHOTO COURTESY SHERWOOD INN

- ARABIAN PROVERB

Sherwood Inn

The Sherwood Inn has wood-burning fireplaces in its lobby, where guests can

26 W. Genesee St., Skaneateles, 315-685-3405, sherwoodinns.com/dine/ sherwood-dining-room

gather and enjoy cocktails, and in its tavern and main dining room. Menus change

Open 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m.

Sunday through Thursday, 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.

Friday and Saturday

seasonally but always include the classics: Yankee Pot Roast, Scrod Christopher and Pan-Seared Pecan Salmon. On Fridays, a raw bar is offered in the tavern from 5 to 8 p.m. The Sherwood was built in 1807 as a stagecoach stop; today, it has 25 meticulously restored guest rooms, many with their own fireplaces.

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The Chop House on Waring 200 Waring Road, Syracuse, 315-4451976, thechophouseonwaring.com Open 5-8 p.m. Sunday, 5-9 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 5-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday

The Chop House on Waring, ranked #2 this fall by syracuse.com for CNY’s Best Steak, has three fireplaces—a main fireplace and fireplaces in the bar area and a private dining room. (The restaurant also has a dining room where you can see the fireplace but are not exposed to it.) Its extensive menu features six different types of steak, along with lamb chops, pork chops, duck, chicken and other entrees, homemade soups and a selection of eight to 10 desserts. As the former site of Saratoga Steaks & Seafood, Daphne’s and TC’s (Tecumseh Club), The Chop House elicits many fond memories from diners.

The Krebs

The Ridge 1281 Salt Springs Road, Chittenango, 315-687-6900, https://www.theridgerocks.com/tavern Open 3:30-9:30 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday

53 W. Genesee St., Skaneateles, 315-685-1800, https://thekrebs.com

Nestled in the woods of Chittenango (and somewhat challenging to

Open 5-10 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday

find), The Ridge has two stories for seating, with a circular stone fire-

The Krebs, a Skaneateles landmark for more

place in the middle of its first-floor dining room. Menus change sea-

than 100 years, has fireplaces in its dining

sonally. Winter offerings include braised beef brisket, homemade over-

room and lounge. The restaurant was pur-

stuffed mushroom ravioli, and comfort dishes like homestyle meatloaf.

chased by Adam and Kim Weitsman in 2010

The Ridge supports Clear Path for Veterans and seeks to provide its

to save it from closing. After extensive ren-

community with a family dinner table.

ovation, it reopened in 2014 with a focus on the freshest local ingredients and menus adapted to the season. The Krebs is one of

Scotch ’N Sirloin and the S2 Bistro 3687 Erie Blvd. E., DeWitt, 315-446-1771, scotchnsirloin.com Open for dinner 5-9:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 5-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 4:30-8:30 p.m. Sunday; open for lunch 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesday through Friday

two Central New York restaurants (along with The Brewster Inn) to receive “Two Glass” honors from Wine Spectator. Net profits are donated to women’s and children’s charities.

The Scotch, which encompasses a steakhouse, bar and bistro, offers PHOTOS COURTESY THE RIDGE, SCOTCH ‘N SIRLOIN

fine dining in a rustic, comfort-

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able atmosphere. Its wood-burning fireplace is about 10 feet in diameter with a huge copper hood and produces massive fires that

Scenic Root 301 Fayette St., Manlius, 315-682-3000, scenicrootmanlius.com Open 11:30 a.m.- 9 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Thursday, 11:30 a.m. -11 p.m.

Friday and Saturday, 4-9 p.m. Sunday

eliminate the need for heating.

The Scenic Root offers classic American cui-

Choose the bistro for a casual, up-

sine and prides itself on providing “a fair

beat atmosphere, or the dining

value, great service, and a little something

room for a more formal experience. Up the cozy factor in a booth (es-

for everyone.” Delicious soups and desserts

pecially the round corner booth behind the fireplace), then top off your

complement a menu that changes seasonal-

meal with an after dinner (spiked) coffee, port or cognac. To celebrate its

ly (and is described by many as “amazing”).

50-plus years in the community, Scotch ’N Sirloin offers 50 percent off 50

Plus, you get a great view of the swan pond.

bottled wines (with the purchase of dinner) every Monday and Tuesday.

Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis.

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Get your jammies on Our brutal winters warrant a little indulgence in what we’re calling PJ chic or lazy day lounging.

To make it more refined, pronounce lazy like blasé.

You won’t feel so guilty.

BY M J K R AV EC

YOU SOFTIE YOU Bundle up in a super comfy Coco & Carmen hoodie, $54 at The Rose Cottage, 214 S. Manlius St., Fayetteville. 315-637-1330

HYGGE HOW-TO Study up on “The Little Book of Hygge, Danish Secrets to Happy Living,” $16.96 at barnesandnoble.com.

PINE FOR YOU Pinecone candles are 100 percent beeswax handmade in Ithaca. Large, $18.99, small, $7.99 at Salt City Artisans, 226 Hawley Ave., Syracuse. 315-479-0400.

HAPPY FEET Keep Jack Frost away from your toes with Jeremy’s handcrunched socks, which the artist makes on a 1920s sockmaking machine. $35 at Salt City Artisans.

UNDER COVER Stay warm with this super soft fleece throw in a neutral color, $49 at urbanoutfitters.com.

PHOTOS COURTESY URBAN OUTFITTERS, BARNES & NOBLE, MJ KRAVEC

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Comfort and joy CREATING A PEACEFUL SPOT THAT ALLOWS YOU TO RETREAT AND CENTER YOURSELF AMID THE DAILY WORRIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES GIVES YOUR HOUSE A PURPOSE BEYOND SHELTER. COMFORT NEED NOT SACRIFICE STYLE, BUT WHAT DEFINES COMFORT AND WHAT DEFINES STYLE ARE DIFFERENT FOR EVERYONE: COLOR PALETTES, PHOTOS, OBJECTS ALL RESONATE DIFFERENTLY. A PEEK INTO THESE SEVEN HOMES ILLUSTRATES JUST SOME OF THE MANY WAYS COMFORT CAN BE INTERPRETED.

BY AMY BLEIER LONG PHOTOGRAPHS BY ALAINA POTRIKUS

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Connect Four

Amber Balistreri’s family snuggles into the front room of their Baldwinsville home for family game nights. Deep slipcovered chairs and over-stuffed pillows provide comfortable seating while an upholstered ottoman does double duty as a footrest and storage for a variety of board games. Amber says, “We will get out Orangeopoly (a Syracuse University-themed game) and play it for weeks, a little bit here and there.” Dark walls add warmth and focus attention on the other elements in the room, such as a convex mirror, brass fixtures and accents that reflect light coming in from the large window.

Amber wanted to create a space that felt different from the family room, which has a long section-

Tufted and textured, amber balistreri’s family game room mixes a few hard elements in with a lot of softness.

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al. “With the way the seating is laid out, it instantly feels like a great space to catch up and connect with each other,” she says.

Vintage Allure When she’s home, Talia Shenandoah spends most of her time in the dynamic living room of her loft apartment in Syracuse. The double-height space is filled with bright colors, lush greenery and touchable textures on all the pillows and seating, including a vintage scroll arm settee and a tufted Chesterfield sleeper sofa. Though she often pulls up a small table to craft or work on her laptop, she says, “If I don’t have work to do, I pull the bed out and just lounge and watch TV.” Her penchant for vintage is evident in the decorative accents around the room, including a wall-mounted candelabra that was her grandmother’s. Talia says, “I love the warmth, vibrance and openness of it. It makes me feel very comfortable in that there are beautiful things when I look around.”

Gold fibers in the fabric on a vintage settee influenced the hues of the bright swirling rug and the tufted Chesterfield sleeper sofa.

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Office Space Most people probably wouldn’t think of their home office as a comfortable spot to hang out after hours, but to David and Erica Smith of Baldwinsville, the room is a bit of an oasis. “It’s the only kid-free space in the house,” says Erica; the couple has two young daughters aged 3 and 5. David works from home, so they hired Amber B Design to give the room a sophisticated, masculine edge while keeping it functional. The palette of neutrals, blues and mixed metals was inspired by a piece of art hanging behind David’s desk. At night, they sink

A black bar cart holds a decanter and glasses on top and below, a hammered metal bowl for discreetly storing thumb drives and disks.

into supple leather armchairs and chat about their day. “We have a TV in here, too, so sometimes after the kids go to bed, we’ll have a drink and just unwind,” says Erica.

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Booking Time “A comfortable chair, a good book and a good glass of wine, with a fire going, sitting next to my husband,” Roseann Smith says, elaborating on why she and husband Tim love to spend time in the library of their East Syracuse home. Roseann works from home, so being able to compartmentalize her professional and her personal lives is important: “I want it to be calm; whatever the day was like out there, I don’t want to bring it in here.” To create this haven, she decorated the room with a soothing palette, shelves full of novels, family photos and sculptural objects. The room features a double-sided fireplace and overlooks the private lake where they enjoy fishing and water sports. “It’s our favorite spot to relax, watch the fire and just zone out,” says Roseann.

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the Smiths have read nearly every book in their library, including those on built-in shelves behind the pair of checked armchairs.

“Anything that’s cozy is comforting.”

Susan Gorman

Making Memories The living room of Susan and Keefe Gorman’s Skaneateles home has played host to many special moments in the 28 years since they purchased the house.

“We’re always there,” Susan says. “We entertain there, we have everyone’s birthdays in there.” Because there’s no television, the room is ideal for intimate gatherings, reading or practicing piano, as each of their four children did growing up. Windows on three sides of the room afford views of Skaneateles Lake, but because

Layers of patterns and textures encourage family and friends to nestle in.

the property is surrounded by trees, it is a quiet, private space. A marble-tiled fireplace serves as the focal point around which an eclectic mix of seating is arranged. “The furniture is not formal, it’s comfortable and somewhat textured. Candles and the fireplace make it cozy, I think,” says Susan. “Anything that’s cozy is comforting.”

Love Story For Kathie and Larry Morris, a suspended rattan-and-iron chair is a symbol of enduring love. The couple, who celebrated their 46th anniversary in 2018, downsized from a larger home to their current two-bedroom apartment downtown two and half years ago.

They had to make judgment calls on all their possessions. “Life is so much easier now,” says Kathie. The chair was a gift from Larry when she was in ninth grade and has traveled with her to every place she’s lived. The little nook is part of a curated collection of meaningful pieces, including family heirlooms, that tell their story. “Our space is contemporary, but everyone that comes in says it’s so cozy, and I always wonder why they say that. I think when you are surrounded by personal things that have special meaning, it makes it feel warm, homey and comfy,” she says.

“Our space is contemporary, but everyone that comes in says it’s so cozy, and I always wonder why they say that.

Kathie Morris

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Everyday Elegance

In Kellie Williams’ Eastwood home, the décor references the era of the house – it’s more than 200 years old – contrasted with pieces that are more contemporary. She wanted to create a simple, structured look that exuded elegance. A button-tufted chaise in a mini leopard print pattern that reads as a neutral commands attention. “It’s a great way to get cozy on a cold winter day. When my twins are here from college, they enjoy the three of us and puppy Ava catching up, cuddled together,” Kellie says. The feminine space includes a skirted chair

Neutral walls and furniture allow trendy red-and-gold dragonfly drapes to add a dramatic counterpoint.

and a chandelier with crystal drops. The room has a romantic atmosphere, even though it is spacious enough to hold a household of guests. She says, “I love to entertain and especially love time surrounded by family and friends.”

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Wedding Guide

Hayloft on the Arch Photo by Harlow Bliss

Something old, something new

Industrial lofts in downtown Syracuse. Restored barns tucked into bucolic fields. Vintage finds, a VW bus, hand-scripted details and more. Wedding venues and vendors across Central New York can set the scene for events ranging from seriously glam to shabby chic. Here’s a look at what’s trending for 2019.

Wedding Guide

Make it yours When it comes to making your wedding extra memorable, Central New York vendors offer a variety of ways to ensure your event is uniquely personal.

BY ALAINA POTRIKUS

Scripted Sarah Dustin of The Adirondack Ink fell in love with the hand-scripted wedding details she saw on Pinterest while planning her 2014 wedding.

When she couldn’t find a local vendor, she taught herself the art of hand lettering and began offering her services to other brides.

Now, her side hustle has become a fulltime business, with her work featured in

The cutting of the wedding cake is as iconic as a white bridal dress.

But more often, couples are choosing to

PHOTOS COURTESY OF SHERI TUTTLE, MARTHA SWANN-QUINN

the wedding blog Green Wedding Shoes.

Her services include lettering

Florals When Amanda Kogut meets with a

individual invitations, place cards and

potential bride, she takes the conversation

other Instagram-worthy details. But she

beyond replicating inspirational images.

provide their guests with more options for

also has curated a collection of mirrors,

dessert - from ombre macaron towers to small

chalkboards and easels that she rents

and they love and recreate that, so it is

pastry platters, said Kaleigh Ligoci of Halfmoon

for wedding days - like a six-foot tri-fold

specific to them,” said Kogut of Spruce

Bakery & Bistro in Jamesville.

mirror large enough to accommodate a

Ridge Landscape and Garden Center

full seating chart.

in Cazenovia. “We want your wedding

The trend started with the popularity of

62

Martha Stewart Weddings, The Knot and

cupcakes several years ago, Ligoci said. Many

“It is not just hand writing someone’s

couples are now choosing a small cutting cake

name - it is creating a keepsake for that

for themselves and inviting guests to peruse a

person,” she said.

candy or dessert bar.

“Whether it is a small and intimate

“That way, guests can keep dancing and not

“I try to take what they have found

to be about you, not what you found on Pinterest.”

Kogut’s signature style is organic and free-flowing, incorporating hand-picked

wedding or a grand ballroom, brides

greenery in bridal bouquets, boutonnieres

have to sit down and have a formal slice of cake,”

want to give their guests an experience

and garlands.

Ligoci said.

that they haven’t had before. This is a

But the newest twist has been incorporating

way to share their style.”

While neutrals and blush pink have been popular in recent years, Kogut is seeing

unique flavors, like the hummingbird, salted

more saturated colors come into play for

caramel and Guinness chocolate cakes on

the coming wedding season - from blues in

Halfmoon’s menu.

the spring and summer to rust in the fall.

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

“Classic greens with white flowers are beautiful, but you can bring in other colors in a classy way,” she said.

J A N UA R Y/ F E B R UA R Y

J A N UA R Y/ F E B R UA R Y

PHOTO COURTESY OF KERRI LYNNE PHOTOGRAPHY

All about that cake

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

63

Wedding Guide

Vintage vibes Brianna Pisani spent her two-year engagement collecting barn wood props, signs, vintage furniture and other decor to create the perfect backdrop for her October 2015 wedding.

When she moved to Upstate New York, she and her husband launched a vintage rental company to help other couples design their own wedding day.

The Pretty Little Vintage warehouse in Adams Center is home to an ever-growing collection of vintage china and glassware, decor pieces like lanterns, terrariums, candlestick collections; mason jars and milk glass vases; cake stands and other dessert displays; rugs, trunks and suitcases. Accent furniture ranges from vintage seating like loveseats and settees to antique dressers, hutches and desks that can serve as drink stations, guest book tables or favor displays. Tables, chairs and benches can be mixed and matched for eclectic reception seating, and arbors and backdrops can create unforgettable ceremony spaces.

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LEFT PHOTO COURTESY ALAINA POTRIKUS PHOTOS COURTESY RACHEL LIZ PHOTOGRAPHY, SNAPSHOTS PHOTO & BUS

Sweet treats A 1971 Double J horse trailer is making a sweet addition to

The trailer sets up at weddings with multiple hard ice

Central New York weddings.

cream flavors and an array of toppings and treats. Like signa-

Tail & Toppings launched last April with a one-of-a-kind con-

ture drinks, couples can choose to create and name a signa-

cept: a vintage pony trailer turned mobile ice cream shop.

ture sundae, and guests can enjoy their dessert in a vintage

Owner Alyssa Brement said the idea combined her love of horses (she’s been riding since age 4) and sundaes (she worked at an ice cream shop in high school and college).

She renovated the vintage trailer with the help of her husband Alex after reading on Pinterest about a horse trailer that was turned into a coffee shop in the U.K.

Get on the bus Alexandria Bay entrepreneur Heather Gill started Snapshots Photo Booth in 2013 with standard photo booth equipment and quickly began booking weddings and events across Central and Northern New York.

But her love of all things vintage took her business in a new direction last year, after renovating a 1977 VW Bus into a oneof-a-kind photo booth experience.

Nicknamed “Penny,” the charming vehicle has been outfitted with high-quality modern photography equipment.

Guests step inside to take pictures that are printed instantly for immediate keepsakes. The bus also serves as a great backdrop for bridal party photos.

lounge featuring upholstered furniture perfect for photos.

“I guess I ended up combining everything that I have a passion for - weddings, horses, ice cream, and making people smile,” Brement said. “My favorite part about my business is that I get to be a part the best day of someone’s life.”

Wedding Guide

Tips from a Wedding Planner Megan Hiltbrand of MLH Events knows that wedding planning can get overwhelming.

From choosing vendors and venues to shopping for the perfect dress, Hiltbrand offers support that goes beyond the walk down the aisle. “Wedding planners are jack of all trades — we do everything,” she said.

BY ALAINA POTRIKUS

While apps like Instagram and

Stay true to yourself Hiltbrand encourages her clients to choose

Personalize your big day with a

Pinterest are great for design

details that speak to their personalities and

special experience for guests - like

inspiration, too much browsing

lives together, rather than the trends of the

lawn games, giant Jenga or bocce

can cause confusion and set

moment.

ball during cocktail hour or late-

unrealistic expectations.

“You want people to walk in and say your

Instead, Hiltbrand helps couples extract their favorite parts of styled images to incorporate into their big day.

wedding looks like you, not like one they went to last weekend,” she said.

The antidote to cookie cutter weddings:

night snack stations or a surprise food truck.

“Think back to times you were a guest, and the things you

personal details. It could be caramel corn

loved,” said Hiltbrand, who has

favors featuring a family recipe or decorating

also incorporated cigar rolling

palette or the feel of whimsy?” she

with doilies collected by a bride’s great-

stations, whiskey or tequila

said. “We give them the essence

grandmother.

tastings, cocktails paired with

“Is it the texture or the color

about what they liked about it.”

About three months before the wedding, she tells brides to stop scrolling.

“These little personal things give people a glimpse into a couple’s history,” Hiltbrand said.

For a bride from Puerto Rico and a

“Turn it off, step away, you have

groom from Jamaica, Hiltbrand suggested

cordials.

Hiltbrand also suggests serving meals family style to encourage guest interaction.

“Food brings people together,”

to leave it alone,” she said with a

combining sand from both of their island

she said. “It gets a conversation

smile. “Trust that you are headed

hometowns in their ceremony.

started and gives people inroads

in the right direction.”

“It cuts through all the trendy stuff and pulls the guests into their day,” she said.

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Get interactive

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J A N UA R Y/ F E B R UA R Y

to mingle.”

SHUTTERSTOCK PHOTO

Don’t rely on Pinterest

Photography - Jussara Potter For photographer Jussara Potter, a wedding is a collection of emotional moments.

“The moments of intimacy between a mother and daughter, a dad’s face as he dances with his little girl, the smiles, the happiness that is evident on everyone’s faces,” said Potter, who began building her photography business in 2011. “Every couple and every wedding is different, but the one thing that remains the same is the love that permeates everything.”

To really experience the emotion, Potter recommends that guests put away their cell phones during the ceremony, known in the industry as “unplugged weddings.”

“Unfortunately, the use of cell phone cameras has become carelessly automatic in our daily lives and this has carried over into weddings,” Potter said. “Guests forget in the emotion of the moment that the bride and groom have hired a professional photographer, and are counting on that photographer to capture the moments that are most important to them.”

Potter says she also sees a shift toward visual storytelling over formal, posed images.

“While formal shots are still an important part of weddings, couples are opting for a photographic narrative of their entire day as well,” she said. “

PHOTOS COURTESY JUSSARA POTTER, THE POST-STANDARD

Special guest Put Otto the Orange on your

Love me tender The owners of CopperTop Tavern and Tully’s Good

wedding guest list, and you could

Times have expanded into catering - which means

share a special dance and pose for

customers can have Tully’s famous chicken tenders at

pictures with the SU mascot. The

their weddings, graduation parties and other celebration.

beloved Orange makes more than 300

“It is a popular item,” said David Giamartino, one of the

appearances a year, from fundraisers

owners of the regional restaurant chains. “We didn’t

and family reunions to birthdays and bat

realize how much interest there was for our style of food.”

mitzvahs. All appearances depend upon

Last year, the catering business did about 20 weddings

Otto’s availability and must be booked

at Owera Vineyards, a winery near Cazenovia Lake. The

in advance on a first-come, first-served

company can handle a range of events, from private

basis. Otto’s fee (in 2017 it was $300

dinner parties to receptions with food stations to more

for two hours, plus travel expenses)

formal, sit-down weddings of several hundred guests,

is donated to support the SU Spirit

according to Bri Piscitell, the marketing director at

Squad.

CopperTop. J A N UA R Y/ F E B R UA R Y

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Wedding Guide

City lights, country nights

Marriott Syracuse Downtown Following major restoration and renovation, the former Hotel Syracuse has been a hot spot for downtown weddings in recent years.

“It’s kind of like a fairy tale,” said wedding specialist Lindsey Cole of the grand ballroom with its sparkling chandeliers and painted sky ceilings. “That’s the feeling you get when you’re in there.”

On-site restaurant Eleven Waters, a pub, accommodations and the proximity to Armory Square are among the benefits of the downtown venue.

“Your out-of-town guests don’t have to wander too far - everything is right there,” she said.

The popularity of the venue prompted the renovation of a new ballroom for the coming season. The vibe is less historic and more industrial, but Cole said the space can be used for any type of event.

“It’s a blank slate,” she said.

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PHOTO COURTESY CRYSTAL HERRY PHOTOGRAPHY

BY ALAINA POTRIKUS

S8914838-01

Wedding Guide Redhouse Arts Center This year’s $8 million renovation has equipped to 350 guests along with national theatrical and musical performances.

“It really dresses up nice and becomes a special space,” said Executive Director Samara Hannah of the 40,000-square-foot complex in the heart of downtown Syracuse.

Staff approaches each wedding with the same attention to detail they provide audiences every night.

That means using the $2 million upgrades in lighting and audio equipment to make ceremonies and receptions sound and look their best.

“Because we are a theater, the acoustics are not an afterthought,” Hannah said.

Couples can get ready in the dedicated dressing rooms, outfitted with lighted makeup stations and televisions that broadcast a live feed of guests arriving.

Hayloft on the Arch Located in Vernon Center, the 18.8-acre property includes a willow tree overlooking a meandering stream and a quaint chapel ideal for photos or ceremonies.

Receptions take place in a 4,000-squarefoot patio and a renovated dairy barn featuring long tables and family-style dining.

Owners Alisha and Mike Mathalia said their own vows onsite in 2018, after 18 months of renovating the property and overseeing more than 80 weddings.

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PHOTOS COURTESY MICHAEL FISHER PHOTOGRAPHY, HARLOW BLISS

the Redhouse Arts Center to host weddings of up

S8859637-01

Wedding Guide

Sky Armory With three ballrooms that can accommodate sit-down dinners for 450 or hors d’oeuvres for 45, Sky Armory offered a taste of urban chic when it opened four years ago.

That was the plan when Nicole Samolis took on ly Building on South Salina Street. After two decades of event planning, Samolis said she wanted to create a venue that would be turn-key for clients.

In-house floral designers are on hand to help with decor; a farm-to-fork dining approach includes recipes made from scratch and the bar is fully customizable.

The team prides itself on execution of themes, from rustic barn to sophisticated glam.

“We don’t tell our couples, ‘No.’ We ask how we can accomplish what they are looking for,” Samolis said.

PHOTO COURTESY EMMA BAUSO PHOTOGRAPHY

the task of repurposing the former Wells & Cover-

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PHOTO COURTESY SINCLAIR CHAIR FACTORY

The Sinclair of Skaneateles Weddings are the newest chapter for the historic Sinclair Chair Factory, built in 1871 on Skaneateles Creek.

The industrial yet rustic property can host up to 200 guests. Weddings on grounds take place under an arch overlooking the river, with guests seated at refurnished church pews. Guests can enjoy cocktails around an outdoor fire-pit on the patio by the water, then come inside for dinner catered by Skaneateles mainstay Rosalie’s Cucina. In addition, seating consists of antique chairs once manufactured at the venue, another nod to its history.

A third-floor wedding preparation room features exposed brick walls perfect for bridal portraits, while a second-floor balcony overlooking the dance floor provides the perfect romantic moment for the newlyweds.

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After five years of weddings, the winery overlooking Cazenovia Lake continues to draw couples with signature sparkler exits and customized wine tastings and food pairings.

“Every year we keep growing and growing,” said general manager Dawn Schmidt.

After an outdoor ceremony under a pergola, guests enjoy cocktail hour overlooking the vineyard before entering the billowing white linen tent, outfitted with a hardwood dance floor, wrought iron chandeliers and heating and cooling systems to mitigate Upstate New York weather.

“Our couples love the indoor/outdoor experience of the entire event,” Schmidt said.

Couples choose several Owera wines to serve at their cocktail hour, and the wines can also be paired with seafood, pasta or carving stations.

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A

newly renovated boutique-style hotel, with resort-like amenities offering both indoor and outdoor spaces for entertaining.

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EXP:12/30/2019 Offer can not be combined with anyother discounts. One per-person

PHOTO COURTESAY PAUL CARMEN PHOTOGRAPHY LEFT PHOTO COURTESY SARA HEPPELL PHOTOGRAPHY

Wedding Guide

Landmark Theater In addition to dancing beneath the gilded decor and dining onstage, couples who marry at the Landmark Theater get to see their names in lights on the marquee.

Built in 1926, the venue feels like a step back in time, but with all the modern amenities that couples expect in a downtown wedding venue.

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Our Town

Baldwinsville Baldwinsville is the fastest-growing village in Onondaga County based on 2017 U.S. Census Bureau estimates. B’ville, as it’s known, is located within the towns of Lysander and Van Buren and is bisected by the Seneca River, which gives the charming, walkable historic downtown area its unique character.

BY AMY BLEIER LONG

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Cottage. Lunch spots include Olive’s Eatery, Tassone’s Wine Garden and The Deli. Grab a slice at any of several pizzerias or follow Lil Twisted food truck’s schedule.

Find dinner options to suit any taste: Lock 24, Asuka Grill and Sushi Bar, Atlantic Seafood, The Suds Factory River Grill, Angry Garlic, Mohegan Manor and The Chef and the Cook.

Dessert spots JessiCakes and Dani’s Dessert and Wine Bar satisfy cravings.

Nightowls, visit 24-hour B’ville Diner.

For cold drinks and live music, hit JP’s Tavern, Sammy Malone’s, Average Joe’s Beernasium or The Tiki Bar at The Winds of Cold Springs Harbor Marina. Microbrewery WT Brews features local ingredients and an outdoor patio. Four Grand Wine & Cidery (Abbott Farms) presses New York State apples on site to make hard cider, wine & mead. Just need a cup of joe? Try Shamballa Café and Coffee Roasters.

On the riverside at Muddy Waters, known for its Southern comfort food menu. Blackberry Smoke plays at the Budweiser amphitheater at Paper Mill island. Skiing at Beaver Lake.

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Shop local

Find gifts and women’s clothes at Fashion Rescue 911, Sissy’s at The Hamill House and The Shoppes at Two Twisted Sisters. Unearth vintage and new treasures at Beyond the Attic Door and The Savvy Chick.

DIY lovers, check out The Purple Painted Lady. Visit Miller’s Crossing Design shop at Greene Ivy Florist & Gourmet for furniture, decor and fresh flowers. For well-designed ink, make an appointment at Tymeless Tattoo.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY SAMANTHA POPE, KEVIN FITZPATRICK, SCOTT SCHILD, JIM COMMENTUCCI

Have a drink

Grab a bite

Annual Events Local organizations such as the Chamber of Commerce, Rotary Club, and Kiwanis put on a variety of social events each year: B’ville Big Chill, Peony Fest, Margaritafest, The Canal Arts Festival, a summer concert series, Seneca River Days – marking its 25th anniversary in June, the Wild Carp Classic, Ghost Walk, That Chocolate Event and Parade of Lights. A very philanthropic village, there are also events throughout the year to benefit specific causes and the community at large.

Don’t settle for average.

Get outside Beaver Lake Nature Center is the highlight of the area, but a variety of parks offer picnicking, fishing spots, playgrounds, sports facilities, an outdoor swimming pool, a public boat launch and walking trails. Find fresh produce at the farmers market, enter the annual Pickleball Tournament Park, or try goat in Lysander Park yoga at Purpose Farm (left).

Unless you’re in the market for it.

What to do

The Museum at the Shacksboro Schoolhouse features a heritage peony collection and local history exhibits.

Each summer, Paper Mill Island hosts live concerts and more.

See a production by the Baldwinsville Theatre Guild. Hit the lanes at B’Ville Sports Bowl or play 18 holes at any of the several golf courses, including Jack Nicklaus-designed Timber Banks Golf Club.

– DeAnna Germano, chef-owner at The Chef and The Cook

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“We chose B’ville because of its location and community. The community is one that thrives on supporting each other and small local businesses.”

The Karim Team

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CNY Scout

BOXCAR PRESS, A SYRACUSE-BASED LETTERPRESS PRINTER, HAS HIRED MUCH OF THE LOCAL PRINTING TALENT TO CREATE THEIR CUSTOM WORK.

Making an impression

BY AMY BLEIER LONG PHOTOGRAPHS BY AMELIA BEAMISH

Too many modes of communication are fleeting. Letterpress stationery is a tactile pleasure that endures – despite the rise of digital printing – and for good reason: letterpress is crafted, it’s personal and it’s a link between past, present and future.

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ting married appreciate paper, the value of it and the craftsmanship that goes into an invitation,” Kyle says.

They launched the Bella Figura brand and its website in 2002.

The concept of browsing online for stationery was new, but the

Harold Kyle founded Boxcar Press in 1998 in Minneapolis while

company recognized the potential in offering an “art gallery of

working as a bookbinder and award-winning printer. When he

invitations online.” Bella Figura was a pioneer of calligraphy-style

and his wife, Debbie Urbanski, moved to Syracuse a few years

fonts and letterpress invitations, both of which were off-the-beat-

later, he ran Boxcar out of their basement in the Westcott neigh-

en-path choices at the time, but now enjoy immense popularity.

borhood and worked with printmaking and graphic design stu-

The company has been based at the Delavan Center on West

dents from Syracuse University. In the Twin Cities, Boxcar worked

Fayette Street since 2005 and has expanded to include 80 em-

primarily on commercial printing projects. After moving to Syr-

ployees. Inside the industrial space, their studio incorporates ar-

acuse, where fewer of those opportunities existed, Kyle and Ur-

eas for design work, consultation, polymer plate making and the

banski, who came on as partner, realized the path forward was

production floor where the steady hum of antique letterpress ma-

a shift into the wedding invitation market. “People who are get-

chinery accompanies the work done by multiple skilled hands.

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skilled hands. Letterpress dates to the 1400s and Boxcar uses techniques that have been developed for hundreds of years. Most of the work they do is letterpress, but an increasing amount incorporates foil stamping and digital printing, and often a combination of more than one method of printing.

“It’s a mix and that’s really where we do well, because we can combine all of these print methods in various ways, the new and the old, and that’s what we love. It lets us do a lot of interesting things with the design,” Kyle says.

With the prevalence of social media, consumers are STYLED STATIONERY SUITE PHOTOGRAPHS BY CARINA SKROBECKI; STYLIST, COZBI JEAN

savvier about design and stationery in general. Invitations set the style and formality of an event and a piece of stationery that is textural and visually appealing becomes a memento. “What excites me is that we’re creating something that brides and grooms can really look back at as an heirloom, something to keep and hold,” says Kyle.

While Bella Figura currently offers more than 400 designs, the possible permutations are infinite: color, shape, thickness, motif, typefaces, foil, edging – all of these can be customized. In addition to invitation suites, the company prints all the accoutrements for wedding celebrations, such as ketubahs, menu and escort cards, programs and coasters. Other celebrations – mitzvahs, birth announcements, holiday cards – get the same custom touch.

In addition to working directly with customers, Boxcar supports the letterpress community at large by creating and selling letterpress plates. The company also started selling its specially-made cotton paper to other smaller letterpress printers, who otherwise wouldn’t be able to purchase this quality of paper in bulk.

The company is committed to responsible manufacturing: It is wind-powered, carbon neutral and prints on 100% cotton (tree-free) paper. Boxcar has partnered with Onondaga County Earth Corps since 2014. It also hosts an annual Art Paper Giveaway for local teachers, where educators can find envelopes, papers, boxes and more to use for a variety of classroom projects.

The company has a passionate local following and the number of people who attend their annual Smock side-

letterpress is a process of printing from letters or type in relief to create direct impressions of ink on paper. Top, New Bella Figura designs for 2019. above, notes from happy clients.

Right, Heidelberg Windmill 10x15.

walk sales continues to grow. Smock – Bella Figura’s sister brand – is a curated collection with a consistent style created by one designer, Amy Graham Stigler.

“I think what I’m proudest of is the team we have and just how devoted they are to making high-quality products here in Central New York,” says Kyle.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT BOXCARPRESS.COM, BELLAFIGURA.COM, OR SMOCKPAPER.COM.

J A N UA R Y/ F E B R UA R Y

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est. 1982

Old-Fashioned Meat Market & Deli Spera’s was founded in 1982 by Tony Spera, who came to the USA from Italy with his family at a young age. His dream was to own his own butcher shop resembling those in Italy. After Tony passed away in 1988, his dream continues to be carried out by his family.

Valentine’s Day Recipes to Fall in Love with Pair of delicious Delmonicos • Prime Rib Filet Mignon • Lobster Tails Chicken Parmigiana • Veal Parmigiana

Call today to place an order - 315-699-4422

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Loran has been with Spera’s for three years. He previously worked at Wegmans for 25 years and owned a USDA-certified sausage facility.

He has three grandchildren, one brother and four sisters. When he’s not cutting meat, he enjoys fishing at his secret location or off his boat at Sylvan Beach and is always up for a game of canasta. For a cozy Valentine’s dinner at home, his favorite cut of beef is two Delmonico steaks snuggled side by side to form the shape of a heart.

6250 Rt 31 Cicero, NY • 315-699-4422 • speras.net S8702079-03

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S8702079-02

He suggests pairing with roasted brussel sprouts and a glass of good Cabernet. Ask Loran about his other favorite pairings for Valentine’s Day.

Farm to table

Give us some sugar LO CA L P R O D U C E IS S CA R C E I N W I N T E R A N D T H AT CA L L S FO R S O M E C R E AT I V I T Y I N T H E K I TC H E N I F YO U WA N T TO I N C LU D E S O M E T H I N G LO CA L . AT T H E I N N B E T W E E N R E STAU R A N T I N CA M I L LU S , E X EC U T I V E C H E F/OW N E R C H RIS C E STA P R E PA R E S H IS M E N U U S I N G F R E S H , LO CA L I N G R E D I E N T S W H E N T H E Y ’ R E AVA I L A B L E . A N D W H E N T H E Y ’ R E N OT, H E U S E S W H AT H E F R E E Z E S (SW E E T C O R N), D RI E S (H E R B S) O R P R O D U C E S F R O M T H E R E STAU R A N T ’ S 3 0 - H I V E B E E A PI A RY. J U ST G O E S TO S H OW, A L I T T L E LO CA L LOV E G O E S A LO N G WAY I N C R E AT I N G S O M E T H I N G S P EC I A L . G OT T H AT, H O N E Y ?

BY M J K R AV EC

%%SYRGLSEASON

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WINTER SALAD WITH MAPLED WALNUTS, DRIED FRUITS, HONEY & POPPY SEED DRESSING Serves 2 SALAD INGREDIENTS: 4 cups (10 Oz.) fresh spinach, kale or your favorite salad greens 1 tablespoon each dried or fresh cranberries, apricots and apples 2 tablespoons maple walnuts

In Camillus, 75 acres of farmland growing soy, wheat, corn and sunflowers surrounds The Inn Between Restaurant, which emphasizes fresh, locally grown seasonal produce in its menu. The restaurant itself is situated on four acres that include fig, plum, apple, apricot and peach trees, herbs, tomatoes and a 30-hive honey bee apiary. And that makes for a delightfully inspired menu.

“People love the fact that we farm our own honey,” says Cesta.

Popular dishes at this time of year are typically heartier fare, but we asked Cesta for something lighter to start off the new year. The use of local honey and local maple syrup makes this dish a doubly sweet celebration of local product. And just enough sweet to savor even on a cold winter’s night.

DRESSING INGREDIENTS 3/4 cup local honey 3/4 cup apple cider vinegar 1/2 cup Dijon mustard 1 tbsp. grated fresh onion 1 tsp. poppy seeds 3 cups vegetable oil Combine all ingredients except oil. Whisk in oil till thick, store refrigerated for up to two months. (Makes 1 quart).

MAPLE WALNUTS: 1 cup walnut halves 2 oz. egg whites 1/3 cup sugar 1/4 tsp salt 1/2 tsp. cinnamon 1 tbsp. real maple syrup

Whisk egg whites slightly and add maple syrup.

Most popular dishes?

Coat walnuts well in mixing bowl, add sugar, salt

As the season transitions to win-

and cinnamon. Place on well-oiled baking sheet

ter, menu items like roast duck and

and bake at 350 for 10-15 minutes. Allow to cool

beef Wellington become very pop-

and store in air tight container.

ular as do baked oysters and roasts, says Cesta. The restaurant’s lob-

This salad can be topped with grilled or roasted chicken or duck breast or your favorite seafood.

ster bisque is also in high demand.

To drink?

Cesta says this salad pairs well with a hearty cup of soup and a glass of N.Y.S. Riesling wine like

Any general cooking tips?

“Sharp knives are important.

They don’t have to be expensive,

Chef Chris Cesta prepares a winter salad with dressing made from local honey.

just sharp. Learn how to put an edge on a knife or, if they are dull, buy new ones. They make preparing food more enjoyable.”

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Farm-fresh honey from the Inn Between’s apiary.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY ALAINA POTRIKUS

Dr. Frank Salmon Run.

CLASSIC ITALIAN DINING

New Dinner and Beverage Menu Now Available at www.myavicollis.com

Stop by our pizzeria and pick up a jar of Avicolli’s Tomato Basil or Vodka Sauce to take home. Frozen entrees also available.

Winter Salad with Mapled Walnuts, Dried Fruits and Honey & Poppy Seed Dressing. Add slices of New York State apples to include local produce.

Avicolli’s wants to cater your next party or event. View our catering menu online and give us a call!

GIFT CARDS NOW AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE ON OUR WEBSITE!!

7839 Oswego Rd., Liverpool takeout/delivery 622-5100 reservations 622-9690 S8889061-01

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PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF GREGORY HEISLER

Bruce Springsteen

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Artist profile

Image maker YO U ’ V E P R O BA B LY S E E N T H E WO R K O F SY R AC U S E- BAS E D P H OTO G R A P H E R G R EG O RY H EIS L E R . B U T T H E R E’ S M O R E TO H IS A R T T H A N M A K I N G T H E C OV E R O F A M AG A ZI N E .

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B Y K AT H E R I N E R U S H W O R T H

ometimes, you just can’t take “no” for an answer. That’s the moral of the story for Syracuse-based photographer, Gregory Heisler.

You see when Heisler was a teen, he had an idol. It was the famed photographer Arnold Newman and Heisler wanted to work for him. Newman was a legendary figure in his field, known for his “environmental portraits,” in which he photographed his subjects in their natural surroundings. The aspiring photographer was drawn to that style of work and wanted to learn the technique from the master. “I idolized him before all humans,” Heisler, 66, says of Newman.

Hugh Grant

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So one day, home from college after what he calls his “third freshman year,” (he tried three different schools in as many years), Heisler decided to write to Newman…introduce himself and, yes, ask for a job. He dropped the letter in the mail and waited.

“I came home one day and there was a letter from Arnold Newman,” Heisler recalls. “Basically, he said he didn’t need an assistant and didn’t hire from out of town.” The town being New York City and Heisler’s home was Chicago at the time.

But a mere “no” wasn’t going to deter Heisler.

“I called him up and tried again,” Heisler says. “I refreshed his memory on who I was, and Newman said, “I thought I was clear,” (in the letter) and hung up. But now, I felt like I had a relationship with him,” Heisler half-jokingly recalls. “I said to myself, ‘I have to go meet him.’”

So he bought a plane ticket and flew to LaGuardia. No suitcase, no change of clothes, just his portfolio and a few bucks.

Heisler called Newman from the airport and after a fair amount of contentious back and forth, he talked his way into a studio visit, and a job offer. He served as Newman’s studio assistant for ten months, then he left because of his idol’s demanding and harassing work style. Newman was not one to keep his displeasures to himself.

“I got an ulcer from him,” Heisler states. “It was like God yelled at me.”

But those ten months with Newman set Heisler up for the future. He moved on, working as a studio assistant for Eric Meola who photographed Bruce Springsteen for his “Born to Run” album cover in 1975. He also

Mikhail Gorbachev

worked for Bill King who infamously photographed Shirley McLaine, among others, for the memorable Blackglama ad campaign, which ran with the tag line, “What Becomes a Legend Most?” Eventually, Heisler struck out on his own, setting up his own studio in 1979 at the age of 25.

“I wasn’t a great assistant,” Heisler readily confesses. “I would sleep late. I had ideas, but they didn’t want a consultant.”

It didn’t take long before Heisler was getting work of his own. The same year he opened his studio, he got his first cover photo for Life magazine photographing Jim Wine’s now-demolished installation titled, “The Ghost Parking Lot” in Hamden, Connecticut. Since then he has photographed presidents, rock stars, artists, world leaders, actors, miners and banjo players. His images have graced the covers of Time Magazine more than 70 times. They have also appeared in Esquire, Fortune, Sports Illustrated and the New York Times Magazine. It’s likely you’ve seen at least one of Heisler’s images in a publication.

He describes his approach to his illustrious subjects as “respectful.”

It’s not about flattering them, but of respectfully representing them; capturing some aspect of their essence. And that’s where you see Newman’s influence. Each of Heisler’s photo shoots, like Newman’s, is carefully constructed to reveal something of the subject…their profession, or some facet of their persona.

Heisler shot Bruce Springsteen in a battered hallway, casually leaning against a wall with his guitar propped by his side. He shows us an introspective, pensive side of a much younger, Hugh Grant, as he sits at a ta-

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“It means a lot to me to come up with a picture that says the right thing.

The picture is doing the talking. Pictures have to be subject-proof.”

PHOTOGRAPHER GREGORY HEISLER

Michael Bloomberg

ble in a diner toying with a coffee spoon, lost in thought. There’s Mikhail Gorbachev a stark figure with penetrating eyes emerging from the shadows, and a delightful photo of former NYC mayor, Michael Bloomberg standing in the crux of a tree near City Hall – a not-so-subtle reference to the mayor’s Million Trees Initiative. Each photo captures some aspect of the subject; sometimes obvious, sometimes subtle.

“It means a lot to me to come up with a picture that says the right thing,” Heisler says of his work. “The picture is doing the talking. Pictures have to be subject-proof.”

Currently, Heisler is a distinguished professor of photography at S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University, a position he has held for the past four years.

He says it feels a bit ironic to hold the position since he never graduated from college. Heisler is still taking photographs, but his focus is on his students. He feels his role is to help them find their “visual voice,” which is the role Newman played in Heisler’s life.

Bill Gates, Bono and Melinda Gates

“His influence is something I carry with me,” Heisler explains of the impact Newman had on his life. “I carry it with me.”

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CNY Art

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.

Stitching Stories: Thread, Needle, Narrative.

The Quilts of Ellen M. Blalock: Syracuse artist Ellen M. Blalock is an accomplished multi-disciplinary artist who is best known for her photography, video and fiber art. The exhibit will include a broad array of her quilting work from the past 20 years and aims to include two new quilts that she is currently creating as part of new series of work dealing with mental health in the African American community. Blalock learned to sew at a young age, often making clothes for herself and her family. In 1998, she made her first quilts when asked to create an exhibition for Syracuse’s Community Folk Art Gallery about her recently completed “Family History Project.” Having just finished a family oral history project she decided to tell her own family’s stories through quilts.

Blalock connects with the rich history of fiber arts found throughout the African Diaspora and her work is part of the African American quilting tradition of story quilts. Since her first large quilting project consisting of 25 quilts in 1998, Blalock has continued quilting throughout her artistic career, taking commissions, and creating work for sale and exhibition. Through Jan. 12.

Kokom Lena of the First Nation Algonquin. The Photographs of Michael Greenlar: Syracuse photographer Michael Greenlar documented four generations of Algonquins in the bush of Quebec, Canada for almost 20 years. The work focuses on the matriarch Lena Nottaway and the knowledge she passed on through her 15 children. Lena taught Kokomville how to utilize every element of the environment to become a self-sustaining community.

The series is a testament to the cultural survival of the Algonquin people of Barrier Lake, La Vérendrye Park, Quebec, Canada. Despite broken treaties and clear-cut logging, these First Nation people continue to use the land as their traditions dictate. The exhibition is in partnership with Skä•noñh – Great Law of Peace Center. Feb. 2 through March 23.

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.

Nature of Things features landscape paintings

by Rob Glisson and Adriana Meiss with trompe l’oeil nature-based ceramics by Karen Jean Smith. Exhibit dates Jan. 11-Feb. 22 Opening reception, 6 to 8 p.m., Friday Jan. 11.

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Rob Glisson painting at Edgewood Gallery.

“Art is standing with one hand extended into the universe and one hand extended into the world, and letting ourselves be a conduit for passing energy.”

ALBERT EINSTEIN

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.

{Re) Generation: Women Artists After 60: This exhibit explores the creative and transformative power of age for women artists working and thriving in the contemporary art world. This exhibition is presented through the Everson’s Community exhibitions programs. Through Jan. 20.

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. SaturdaySunday and by appointment. Free.

Rodrigo Valenzuela: American Type: In his photographic series, Valenzuela challenges American culture and a simplified approach to representation by revealing his labor-intensive process of translating spaces and objects into images. “I construct narratives, scenes and stories which point to the tensions found between the individual and communities. I utilize autobiographical threads to inform larger universal fields of experience. Gestures of alienation and displacement are both the aesthetic and subject of much of my work.”

Reception: 5 to 7 p.m. Thurs. Jan. 31. Jan. 14 through March 1.

Munson-Williams-Proctor Art Institute 310 Genesee St., Utica. 315-797-0000. Mwpai.org. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Tuesday-Saturday, 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday. Free but special exhibitions may have a fee.

Tommy Brown: Upstate is a retrospective look at the photographer’s decades-long study of his home in rural Central New York. The earliest images in Tommy Brown: Upstate include black-and-white portraits of startling frankness. More recent color photographs resonate with the poetic clarity of paintings by Charles Sheeler, Georgia O’Keeffe, or Charles Burchfield. The consistent subject of Tommy Brown: Upstate is the spirit of this place, its natural and fierce beauty, the relationship of people to the land, and the marks of the past on present-day life. Organized by Munson-Williams-Proctor Arts Institute, Tommy Brown: Upstate is the first museum exhibition of the remarkable photographs Brown has composed during a lifetime of looking. Feb. 8 through April 6.

SU Art Galleries First floor of Shaffer Art Building, Syracuse University, Syracuse. 315 443-4097, suart.syr.edu. 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, closed Monday. Free.

Seeing the Light of Day, Selections by the Registrar: Seeing the Light of Day is an exhibition curated from the perspective of the Registrar, Laura J. Wellner that brings together an eclectic and whimsical sampling of artwork that has never been on display in SU Art Galleries.

Rodrigo Valenzuela photographic series at Light Work Gallery.

Dox Thrash, Black Life and the Carborundum Mezzotint: Dox Thrash, Black Life and the Carborundum Mezzotint brings together numerous examples of the experimental process by Thrash and other colleagues working in the Fine Print Workshop.

A Stirring Song Sung Heroic African Americans from Slavery to Freedom, 1619 to 1865: This exhibition includes more than 130 photographs by William Williams together with historic books, maps, newspapers and manuscripts that trace the overlooked histories of African Americans. Jan. 10 through March 8.

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Flashback

Skaneateles turns out to watch Byrd snow cruiser lumber through.

Snow bound

J U ST C RU IS I N ’ T H R O U G H C E N T R A L N E W YO R K

PHOTO COURTESY ONONDAGA HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION

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In November 1939, local inhabitants were awestruck to see an

tall tires needed to be deflated so it could ease through each

enormous motorized vehicle lumber down West Seneca Turnpike.

overpass. The final problem occurred as the cruiser was headed

This futuristic looking vehicle – a Richard E. Byrd Snow Cruis-

down a steep slope just after dusk. The headlights failed plung-

er – was slowly making its way from Chicago to Boston where it

ing the road into darkness. The vehicle’s designer, Dr. Thomas

would be loaded on a ship bound for Antarctica. The machine

Poulter, managed to keep the cruiser on the highway while the

was 20 feet wide (took up the width of both lanes on the turn-

crew rode on top holding lanterns. With sufficient illumination,

pike), 15 feet high and 55 feet long, with average speeds of 15 to

the vehicle was able to reach that day’s destination in Lafayette,

25 mph. The $150,000, 75,000-pound vehicle was designed to

where the headlights were repaired.

carry a five-passenger Beechcraft plane and, when fully provi-

Unfortunately, these breakdowns were harbingers of the vehi-

sioned, accommodate a crew of five for a year while traveling

cle’s future. Once in Antarctica, the cruiser’s problems contin-

up to 5,000 miles over the arctic ice.

ued. The vehicle traveled only 96 miles (much of that in reverse)

The vehicle encountered several obstacles on its journey

in a year. When the expedition ended, it was abandoned. Later

through Central New York. Negotiating the numerous hills put

rediscovered in the late 1950s, the machine was left to float away

a great deal of strain on the engine causing it to smoke exces-

on an ice sheet and sink to the bottom of the sea.

sively. In order to spare the engine, a NYS DPW truck was commissioned to tow it up the larger hills. Another impediment was the 12-foot height of railroad overpasses. The machine’s 10-foot

CENTRAL NEW YORK MAGAZINE

KAREN COONEY IS SUPPORT SERVICES ADMINISTRATOR AT ONONDAGA HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION.

Gifts with a Story at OHA’s Gift Gallery 321 Montgomery Street Downtown Syracuse | cnyhistory.org Wed-Fri 10-4 | Weekend 11-4

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The Last Word

With Seth Groesbeck C O L L ECT I O N M A N AG E R AT T H E R O SA M O N D G I F FO R D ZO O

We’re not ashamed to admit we had to ask what a collection manager is. Technically, it’s a team leader of the animal care staff that serve certain “collections” of animals. At the Rosamond Gifford Zoo, there are four that oversee different areas, the exhibits, the animals and the staff that care for them. Since it’s winter, we wanted to check in with his job as snow leopard guy- that’s not his technical name, but we’re calling him that anyway.

What do you like most

Do they love the snow and cold

about your job?

as much as we do? (wink)

It’s a unique experience to be able to work

Syracuse’s climate is very similar to the

closely with so many amazing animals. I

climate of central Asia. The snow leop-

hope to be able to share those experienc-

ards enjoy the colder weather and can of-

es with zoo guests to give them a better

ten be seen romping around in the snow.

understanding of the plight of animals in the wild.

What’s their favorite food?

What are the biggest

Snow leopards prefer a variety of meat,

challenges of your job?

especially rabbits.

Animal Care professionals and zoologi-

When are they most active?

cal institutions are dedicated to conservation of animals and their habitats. Get-

As with many cats, snow leopards enjoy

ting the message out that modern zoos

taking long naps. They are the most ac-

are “arks” for endangered animals to the

tive in the morning and evening.

general public is a challenge.

Anything interesting about them that people don’t know?

We’ve heard snow leopards are often called “ghost cats.” Why?

Due to the nature of the vocal cords, snow PHOTOGRAPH BY MARIA SIMMONS AND TERRI REDHEAD

A snow leopard’s coat allows them to blend

Top, Collection Manager Seth Groesbeck with a baby red panda. Below, the zoo’s snow leopard cubs Ozzy and Strut.

leopards can’t roar like other big cats.

into their natural surroundings, making them hard to see. This adaptation and

Long naps? No roaring?

their elusive nature makes them one of

They sound purr-fect.

the least seen of the big cats.

--MJ KRAVEC

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