Central New York Magazine - March/April 2024 preview

We

PRESIDENT

Tim Kennedy

SENIOR DIRECTOR OF MARKETING

Lindsay Marlenga lmarlenga@advancemediany.com

CIRCULATION MANAGER

Gerry Bauer 315-470-3118 gbauer@advancelocal.com

MAGAZINE/EVENTS

SALES MANAGER

Jennifer K. Queri 315-282-8622 jqueri@advancemediany.com

ADVERTISING ACCOUNT

REPRESENTATIVE

Debbie Feeley 315-282-8573 dfeeley@advancemediany.com

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Amy Bleier Long 315-282-8553 ableierlong@advancemediany.com

ASSISTANT EDITOR

MJ Kravec 315-766-7833 mkravec@advancemediany.com

DESIGNERS

Susan Santola ssantola@advancelocal.com

Kimberly Worner kworner@advancelocal.com

CUSTOMER SERVICE

315-282-8622

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Contact Jennifer Queri or visit readcnymagazine.com

ON THE COVER

In the wildlife viewing room at Beaver Lake Nature Center, visitors enjoy the sights and sounds of the preserve while staying warm (see story, page 38). Photo by Alaina Potrikus Beckett. Design by Susan Santola.

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 © 2024. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic/digital, mechanical photocopying, recording or otherwise, without written permission. 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.

Please

Editor’s letter

Home is where I want to be

Ihave long had an interest in decorating and interior design. In high school, I would cut out pictures of extremely modern and minimalist interiors and put them in a portfolio to save for later (this was pre-Pinterest). My tastes have changed drastically over time and with the exposure I had to the design world through my magazine career. By way of the style and home departments I worked in, I got to surround myself with decorative objects, textiles, furniture and fixtures. Learning from and having access to so many creatives and interior designers, especially during my time at Traditional Home, was energizing.

Speaking of interior designers I’ve worked with, writer Rayshaun Sandlin checked in with Thom Filicia (p. 72) as he reflects on his design career and the 20th anniversary of hitting the national spotlight as a member of The Fab Five. Also in this issue, we ask local experts what homeowners should know about design and remodeling trends, what could be tackled as a DIY and when it’s best to leave a project to the pros. MJ scouts cozy spots that could be homes away from home, providing a little escape from the cold with delightful bonuses such as birds, books or brews. Plus, eight

plant-lovin’ people graciously opened their doors to us and shared how they display their lush greenery.

If you’re interested in starting your own veggie garden, writer Cheryl Abrams dug for tips on how to get going. No green thumb? No worries. Let the topiary art of Michelle Masters grow on you.

In other stories, we explore the city of Cortland, recognize the owner of a popular sports pub for his contributions to his hometown, highlight the next chapter of a Syracuse institution and savor a recipe that combines early spring produce and bright citrus notes.

And if you want to put the idea of home in perspective, you can think about the total solar eclipse on April 8 and our truly tiny place in this vast universe. We chose to end this edition with thoughts from Syracuse Astronomical Society Observatory Director Raymond Dague. We hope you enjoy this issue and appreciate each of you for bringing us into your home!

Amy Bleier Long ableierlong@advancemediany.com

As always, we’d love to hear from you about story ideas, thoughts, tips, suggestions, you name it. Drop us a line at info@readcnymagazine.com. And now, a word from our contributors:

Rayshaun Sandlin

“I felt so fortunate having the opportunity to lock in and chat with an OG member of “Queer Eye.” As a queer person just arriving in Syracuse, I also loved learning about his hometown directly through his eyes.”

On writing about Thom Filicia

Allison Kenien

“Talking with home and garden experts for this month’s feature inspired me to think creatively about my own home and how to give it a fresh look. I’m loving these new trends!”

On writing about home trends

ALEXANDER, COURTESY ALLISON KENIEN

6

It’s all good

POSITIVE VIBES • OUR TOWN • MARKET TRENDS

A MIGHTY WIND

BY MJ KRAVEC

March blows in with a peek of green, touch of sun, melting snow piles, is cold weather done? Here are seven ways to savor the waning of winter now.

PHOTO BY JOSHUA GUNTER

It’s all good

APRIL REIGNS

To commemorate National Poetry Month, Point of Contact is hosting the Cruel April series with four Thursday night poetry readings from 6 to 8 p.m. in the MUSe Lab Gallery space at the Nancy Cantor Warehouse Building (formerly the Point of Contact Gallery), 350 W. Fayette St. in Syracuse. Guest speakers Juan Felipe Herrera (April 4), Marcelo Hernández Castillo (April 11), Emily Lee Luan (April 18), Vicky Vértiz (April 25) and Dashel Hernández Guirado (TBD) will discuss original works. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, email: pointofcontactgallery@gmail.com.

MAKE IT MAPLE

Making something with maple is required during maple syrup season, so try this maple latte. Put 1-2 Tbsp. of maple syrup in a mug. Add one cup of freshly brewed coffee and steamed milk. Sip and enjoy while thinking spring thoughts.

GET LUCKY

Delight your littles and celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a sprinkle of magic. Before the kids wake up, add green food coloring to milk, set out a box of Lucky Charms on the counter, tint toilet water green and place gold chocolate coins around the house or stash in a lunch pack.

GO FRESH

We love this spring cleaning tip from Real Simple. Avoid aerosol sprays and stick with natural solutions to freshen your home. Neutralize trash bin smell by sprinkling odor-absorbing baking soda into the bottom of the bin.

BIG, HUGE

IT’S ALIVE

Get a jump on the greening of the season and create your own indoor decor with preserved moss (found at craft stores). Place moss in a wooden bowl and use as an early spring centerpiece, hot glue moss to a basket and hang on a wall, use to top off soil in houseplants or layer moss inside a bell jar for a seasonal touch on a sideboard.

Broadway in Syracuse presents “Pretty Woman: The Musical” March 19-23 at the Landmark Theatre. Based on the iconic movie starring Julia Roberts and Richard Gere, “Pretty Woman” features music by Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance and, of course, the classic title song by Roy Orbison. For more information: nacentertainment.com/syracusepretty-woman-the-musical

GET DOWN

Head into the city for Downtown Syracuse Dining Weeks, March 1-14. Get a taste of the restaurants that offer a variety of culinary delights. Participating restaurants are offering three-course lunches for $15 (or less) and three-course dinner options for $40 (or less). For more information: downtownsyracuse.com/ events/signature/downtownsyracuse-dining-weeks

PHOTOS BY ALAINA POTRIKUS, SHUTTERSTOCK

It’s all good POSITIVE VIBES

BRRUTAL, BUT BENEFICIAL

A

cold shot to your morning routine can boost well-being

BY MJ KRAVEC

Take a cold shower — It’s used as a punchline. Who would seriously want to immerse themselves under a stream of icy water? People who want to reap the mental and physical benefits of a form of hydrotherapy.

According to health.com, a 2008 study showed promising health benefits to taking cold showers one to two times a day for up to five minutes each. The site noted that cold temperatures activate neural receptors in the skin, which signal the brain to release endorphins, the “happiness hormones” that make us feel good. While obviously not a replacement for traditional depression therapy, cold water hydrotherapy has had some success in helping to alleviate symptoms of depression.

Another benefit noted by researchers is that cold water treatment helps speed the healing process by increasing circulation to the area exposed. When specific parts of subjects’

bodies were exposed to cold, their body temperature dropped, stimulating the flow of warm blood carrying fresh oxygen. Researchers also found that cold water therapy may help the body fight off illnesses, namely by stimulating production of leukocytes, which help the body fight infection, according to healthline.com.

To practice: Avoid shocking your system and try easing into cold water therapy by turning your shower from warm to cool and gradually decreasing the temperature as your body acclimates. You can also try easing off hot water and gradually getting used to taking cool showers over time. Start off with shorter sessions — 30 seconds if you can stand it. Then, as you get used to the lower temperature, gradually increase the amount of time you spend in the cold water. Your body will thank you with warm feelings later.

It’s all good OUR TOWN

Cortland

BY JACKIE PERRIN

Nicknamed the “Crown City,” Cortland is a college town with a growing arts scene. A rich agricultural and manufacturing history, abundant recreational opportunities and strong local connections among residents and business owners anchor the midsize community. Situated halfway between Syracuse and Binghamton and home to a SUNY campus, Cortland is favored by academics and creatives seeking an affordable, friendly and accessible environment to live and raise a family. It’s also a great date night or weekend destination. Downtown Cortland is at the midpoint of a multi-year downtown revitalization project.

GRAB A BITE

HAVE A DRINK

Coffee Mania (two locations) energizes the drive-thru drink experience with local flavor. BRU 64 warms up downtown with a classic coffee shop vibe by day, and beer, wine and live music at night. Madam Hatter’s Tea House reimagines themed tea parties for a modern audience. The Red Jug Pub and Dark Horse Tavern are classic college town bars with a local following. Cortland Beer Company and Distillery draws crowds with live music, trivia nights, crafted spirits and a welcoming outdoor patio. Cheer on your favorite teams at Central City Bar & Grill, Gator’s Tavern, Paddy’s Pub or The Rock Sports Bar and Grill

Sip an old-fashioned root beer float at The Gable Inn, and enjoy food, drinks and live music at The St. Charles

Take a tour of the nations on Main Street: Savory options include Pita Gourmet (Lebanese), Wild Ginger (Asian fusion), Asian Delicious (Chinese), Community Restaurant (Greek and American classics) and Melodyland (old-school Italian). Stop at Yori House (Korean) for bulgogi, noodles and Asian pancakes, Los Lagos for Mexican specialties and margaritas or Green Arch Restaurant for more Italian favorites in an upscale setting. Elevated subs from Gorgers, M & D Deli & Catering, The Student Deli or Queen Subs, pizza and calzones from A Pizza & More, A Round Pizza, BRIX, Mangia, Pontillo’s Pizzeria or Pudgie’s Pizza, pastries from Frosted or East Side Bakery and breakfast specials at A.J.’s Family Diner, Cortland Diner, New York Bagel Café & Deli or Prandium will fuel co-eds’ study sessions. Treat the family to an experience and a meal at Doug’s Fish Fry, Hairy Tony’s, Hollywood Restaurant, La Bamba Cuisine or Rex’s Pasta. Enjoy frozen treats from Footie’s Freez or The Frosty Caboose (seasonal).

BALDELLI

PHOTOS

The Cortland Corset Building houses a number of creative studios

SHOP LOCAL

Shop for SUNY Cortland gear at Bernard’s Custom Logo. At Madam Hatter’s Tea House & Shopping Emporium, order a custom dorm crate or a personalized gift basket. Elevate your alumni style at Lot 1 Vintage, featuring carefully curated vintage college gear and classic clothing. Deja Vu is a serene space specializing in vintage and healing arts goods. Stock up on Trinity Valley Dairy products and other regional foodstuffs at Bill Brothers Dairy & Farm Market or The Local Food Market & Cafe. Shop for a feast for the family or a crowd at Cortland Seafood, C.P. Foods Specialty Market or Tienda Latina. Browse the shops at Cinch Art Space, a gift shop featuring the handmade works of over 50 area artists. Crown City Curiosities features vintage clothing and home décor and Area 51 & The Crowe’s Nest is a fun space to shop for board games, toys and collectibles. Action Sports has everything you need for biking and cross-country skiing. Brighten their day with an arrangement from Shaw and Boehler Florist or Cortland Flower Shop

THINGS TO DO

Four unique museums in one: CNY Living History Center brings to life the local sagas of Brockway trucks, firehouses, antique tractors, railroads and military history. Learn more local history at the 1890 House Museum or Suggett House Museum. Take in a show — options include Cortland Repertory Theatre, with two locations, and Rose Hall, a new music and entertainment venue located in a renovated historic church. Cascades Indoor Waterpark at Hope Lake Lodge offers aquatic fun in all seasons. Axe Me 607 features a safe indoor space for children and axethrowing for adults. Home to the world’s longest mini-golf hole, Shipwreck Amusements presents “Black Light Mini Golf.” Go retro at Now Here Pinball, Cort-Lanes or 281 Bowl. Get fit at Cortland YMCA, Cortland YWCA, J.M. McDonald Sports Complex or Vine Health & Fitness. Appreciate art at the Ake Gallery or Dowd Gallery at SUNY Cortland. At Pottery Works Cortland, take a wheel-throwing class, or sign up for “Sip and Paint” or “Dirty Date Night.” Magpie Custom Creations offers sewing classes and Forged from Ashes Studios introduces the art of mosaic. Stretch yourself at Heart Centered Yoga or take a floral design class at Ithaca Flower Shop

ANNUAL EVENTS

Support local at First Fridays, a monthly community arts spotlight event sponsored by Cortland Arts Connect. On Tuesdays and Saturdays from May to October, Cortland City Farmer’s Market vendors set up shop. The popular Corn-Ducky Derby (spring) benefits local charities. In July, check out the Cortland Junior Fair, an agricultural education celebration at Cortland County Fairgrounds. Cortland Arts Off Main Festival celebrates local talent with free workshops and entertainment. Get your groove on at PorchFest Cortland, a one-day front porch community music celebration in August. Named one of the 10 best fall festivals in the country by USA Today, The Great Cortland Pumpkinfest is a family-friendly tradition. In the fall, Ake Gallery hosts the two-day Duck and Red Octopus Festival; the stop-action animated and film festival features workshops and celebrity judges. At Christmastime, Cortland Waterworks on Broadway Avenue becomes a seasonal spectacle, when it is transformed into a shining holiday wonderland. Ring in the New Year at Midnight on Main, featuring fireworks, live music and a festive ball drop.

Dowd Gallery on the SUNY Cortland campus

The Great Cortland Pumpkinfest

Lot 1 Vintage store

Center for the Arts of Homer

GET OUTSIDE

Make tracks for Lime Hollow Nature Center, a 594-acre preserve with 12 miles of trails available for hiking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Greek Peak Mountain Resort offers downhill and Nordic skiing, snowboarding, snow-tubing, disc golf and mountain biking, plus an Adventure Center with an aerial ropes course, ziplines and mountain roller coaster. Splash into summer at the zero-entry Wickwire Pool and accessible splash pad at Suggett Park, or the sandy beach at Yaman Park. Enjoy fresh air and family time at Beaudry Park, Courthouse Park, Dexter Park or Randall Park. Cheer on home teams like The Cortland Crush at the revamped Gutchess Lumber Sports Complex. Hit the links at Elm Tree Golf Course or Willowbrook Golf Club. The one-mile McDermott Nature Trail at Hoxie Gorge, interpreted by SUNY Cortland students, is a hidden gem. Get unique views of Cortland County when you tour the “weird and wacky” Cortland Curiosities Strange and Forgotten History Trail

PHOTO BY MATT BALDELLI

“There’s such a creative environment going on here, and the cost of living is very reasonable.”

Tina Minervini, co-owner of Cinch Art Space and Pottery Works

Lime Hollow Nature Center offers an all-terrain TrackChair for people with mobility challenges.

Andy Schauf 3/21

Jim Messina 3/1

Red Baraat 3/2

Christian McBride 4/6

Alejandro Escovedo 4/10

Joanne Shaw Taylor 4/15

JD Souther 5/4

Ricki Lee Jones 5/7

Alan Doyle 5/18

HOME BOUND

BY AMY BLEIER LONG PHOTOS BY AMELIA BEAMISH

There are so many objects we use every day without even thinking about them. A small bowl to put your rings in, washcloths or poufs you use in the shower, the clips to close up your chips — they’re functional, but why can’t they be a little more special, too? Let the items on the next pages inspire you to bring some beauty and interest to the things we use daily in our homes, with our children and out in the garden. BIRDS

PHOTO BY AMY BLEIER LONG

Good news

BEHIND THE SCENES • CAUGHT DOING GOOD • THE SEEN

IT SUITS YOU

Consistently being named best bridal shop in the area is an honor, but Mirror Mirror Inc. owner Stephanie Long and store manager Heather Jensen are most proud of the safe, welcoming and affirming bridal boutique they have created. The Baldwinsville shop has expanded again, this time with a second inclusive storefront — Mirror Mirror Tux — featuring tuxedos and suiting for all ages and all bodies.

James Bambrick manages the tux side, his intuitive

nature making him a natural at helping people rent or purchase suits and tuxes for weddings, proms and other special occasions. From classic to cutting edge, the expansive variety of styles and sizing in children’s, men’s and gender-neutral styles means customers can truly express their authentic selves — something they were asking for. “There’s something about putting someone in the right garment, they stand straighter and feel more confident. It’s magic when you watch it happen,” says Long.

For more information: mirrormirrorincbridal.com/tuxedosandsuits

Good news THE SEEN

39th Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration

Syracuse University and the community at large celebrated the life and legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at the JMA Wireless Dome with an evening of song, dance and reflection. An exhibition by local Black artists highlighted pieces that looked to the past, present and future of Black life in Syracuse. The program was interspersed with performances by Adanfo drum ensemble, the Community Choir and Dominique’s Dance Ensemble. Broadcast journalist Iris St. Meran emceed the event chaired by Rev. Brian Konkol, dean of Hendricks Chapel, and SU student Leondra Tyler. Four Unsung Heroes were recognized for their positive impacts on our community. Talithia Williams, Ph.D., a mathematician, professor and host of PBS show “NOVA Wonders,” gave the keynote address. She asked the audience what Dr. King’s dream might be now, and posited that increased mathematical literacy for Black students, as a path to greater success and opportunity, would be part of the mission.

Clockwise from above, the Adanfo drum ensemble opened the program; keynote speaker Dr. Talithia Williams, an associate professor of mathematics at Harvey Mudd College in Claremont, California; a performer from Dominique’s Dance Ensemble entertains the audience.

PHOTOS BY DENNIS NETT

GETTING

CUE THE LO-FI, HERE ARE EASY SPOTS TO WARM UP, CHILL OUT AND JUST BE DURING WINTER’S END

BY MJ KRAVEC

Feeling cozy is a necessity during Central New York’s long winters. Lucky for us, our area is filled with spots that offer such comfort — along with bubble tea, whiskers on kittens, squirrels making mischief, roaring fires and books galore. Is there anything that makes these last days of winter more appealing? We don’t think so. Check out these charming locations ideal for moments when you need to soothe yourself through winter’s end.

Pawsitivitea CNY Cafe & Cat Lounge in Syracuse offers yoga with cats, meditation and relaxation, paint nights and more.

PHOTO COURTESY PAWSITIVITEA CNY CAFE AND CAT LOUNGE

welcome to the

jung le

These Central New Yorkers make being green look easy

BY MJ KRAVEC PHOTOS BY ALAINA POTRIKUS BECKETT

What a wonderful world it is inside a plant room, where it’s always a slice of paradise no matter the weather. The people that tend to these spaces are living the dream — in green. At the magazine, we’re always talking about plants and how to care for and display them, so naturally we were curious about how others do it. On the following pages, eight local plant parents who answered our call welcome us into their homes to ogle and chat bot (as in botany). Their results show us how this hobby that doesn’t require much (water, light and, yes, a little money) yields a lot of peace, comfort and joy in return.

MAKE YOURSELF AT HOME

TRENDY HOME UPDATES: WHEN TO DO IT YOURSELF AND WHEN TO CALL IN THE PROS

TBY ALLISON KENIEN AND BECCA TAURISANO

rends addressing form and function in home design are always shifting and this year is no different. From ecoconscious living to staycation retreats, homeowners are getting creative with their spaces by introducing design elements that match their lifestyle and interests.

With the abundance of new DIY kits, home renovation TV shows and you-can-do-anything YouTube channels, many homeowners are taking on new projects without the help of a professional. For some improvements, a do-it-yourself approach makes sense, but for large or highly technical renovations, a contractor may be needed.

To help homeowners sort through the options, we asked local contractors and designers to share this year’s top renovation trends that can transform a home into a haven. For each trend, they shared a few easy DIY upgrades that most homeowners can tackle, as well as more complicated tasks that would require an expert.

“The use of white oak cabinets is increasing dramatically, including rift cut white oak.”

Mark Martino, owner of Modern Kitchens of Syracuse

Cabinets made from rift cut white oak, by Wood-Mode LLC, available through Modern Kitchens of Syracuse. The island has a waterfall countertop.

BY NICK JOHNSON, ASSOCIATED PRESS

LIFE BY DE SIGN

Thom Filicia reflects on success, the spotlight

BY RAYSHAUN SANDLIN

Twenty years after the premiere of “Queer Eye for the Straight Guy,” Syracuse native Thom Filicia is still in shock and awe over its success.

“To be an interior designer, studying interior design and then working in the business — it was incredibly surreal,” says Filicia, who served as the homeimproving “design doctor” on the pioneering reality show.

”Suddenly it goes from this fun, cute idea to being on ‘The Oprah Winfrey Show’ and ‘The Tonight Show.’ And then the Emmys created a category that didn’t exist before, [Outstanding] Reality Program, and they did it because of us, really. It was crazy and exciting.”

So crazy and exciting, in fact, that his actual award didn’t

Left, “Queer Eye for the Straight Guy” cast members, from left, Ted Allen, Jai Rodriguez, Carson Kressley, Thom Filicia and Kyan Douglas celebrate backstage after the show won “Outstanding Reality Program” at the 2004 Primetime Creative Arts Emmy Awards, Sept. 12, 2004. Opposite, Filicia in his Sedgwick & Brattle showroom.

and his Syracuse roots

make it home on the night of the ceremony.

“That Emmy went from L.A. to 15 bars that night,” he says. “I left it in a bar and had to go in a limo to pick it up the next day.”

He then converted the award into a toilet paper holder until a bent wing forced its retirement to the bedroom hall of Filicia’s New York City apartment. “I’ve got to get it fixed at some point,” he says, “but I’ve got bigger fish to fry than that.”

One of those fish included a “Queer Eye” reunion with the original Fab Five this past winter. The event was held in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, and celebrated the 20 years since the groundbreaking show premiered. “I love that it’s still something that people are interested in and is still referenced in pop culture,” Filicia says.

Making good

CNY SCOUT • FARM TO TABLE • ART PROFILE

PLAY YOUR CARDS RIGHT

Youth mentor, personal trainer and speaker JT Houston reaches nearly a million people worldwide with his SPRDLV — pronounced spread love — initiative. Though going live daily on social media (@MrSpreadLove1) has increased his audience in recent years, his desire to serve others as what he calls a positivity influencer started nearly two decades ago, when Houston lost of one of his brothers to suicide.

Now, Houston’s work fostering positive conversations has become tangible. Open Up: The Ultimate Self-Love Card Game was born out of his mission to get people talking to themselves and each other honestly and with a depth not often explored. Questions in four categories (some thought provoking, some more lighthearted) prompt discovery and meaningful connection.

The game ($24.99) is meant to be played with others, but he also encourages individuals to use the cards to lift themselves up to be who they want to become. “I don’t believe in waiting for someone else to give me something that I know I need,” he says.

For more information: cashdrop. com/sprdlv/loveisdope605

PHOTO BY AMELIA BEAMISH

Making good

The bright stuff

The Tasting Room’s Citrus-glazed Duck Breast with spring onion suggests all the zest and freshness of the season

BY MJ KRAVEC PHOTOS BY ALAINA POTRIKUS BECKETT

THE ART OF LIVING STYLISHLY

Maximalist home decor during the Victorian period

BY THOMAS HUNTER

The decor of a typical middle-class home in Central New York during the Late Victorian Period (1870-1900) was often ornate and elaborate. Industrial Age factories made mass-produced merchandise that offered a wider variety of less-expensive decorating options. Furnishings previously accessible only to the wealthy could now be used in abundance, so people brought in dark, heavy furniture and covered surfaces, walls and floors with art, decorative items and ornamentation. They crowded their parlors, dining rooms and bedrooms with ceramic ware, glassware, framed paintings, photographs, flocked wallpaper, mirrors, toilet sets and “innumerable lamps, which shed soft, glowing lights,” according to an article in the July 14, 1897, Syracuse Evening Herald. The result was an extravagant smorgasbord that often created a claustrophobic atmosphere.

Magazines from the 1880s such as Home Decoration, Art Amateur, Art Interchange and Dorcas featured home design articles suggesting how to decorate particular rooms with fancy plant trellises, piano and mantel runners, fireplace screens, embroideries and flowers. A February 9, 1890, issue of the Syracuse Standard newspaper featured an article on creating thistle-andmilkweed pompoms, and advised readers to put the pompoms together to create a rounded bouquet. Local department stores

D. McCarthy, Sons & Co.; E.W. Edwards & Son; Dey Brothers and S. Rosenbloom & Sons frequently advertised home decor items such as jardinières with plants, clocks, glassware, ceramic ware, vases, frames, artwork and embellished toilet sets. Thomas Hunter is curator of collections at Onondaga Historical Association.

Victorian parlors were often ornate and elaborate.

Last word

RAYMOND DAGUE

WITH Observatory Director, Syracuse Astronomical Society

BY MJ KRAVEC

On April 8, the moon will edge its way between the Earth and sun, darkening the face of the great golden orb in a total solar eclipse. According to NASA, the next total solar eclipse won’t occur until August 2044, so naturally, everybody’s sky high about this one. We thought it appropriate to check in with Raymond Dague, observatory director of the Syracuse Astronomical Society. The group of amateur astronomers is open to anyone interested in observing and learning about the night sky, and hosts viewing sessions twice a month from April to October at its Darling Hill Observatory in Tully. We wanted to know more about the significance of the event and what he’s most looking up at and forward to.

What time do you get up in the morning and how do you take your coffee? Usually I’m up around 5:30 and anyone who puts anything in their coffee is destroying it.

What’s your favorite season in CNY? For astronomy, I love the fall because it gets dark so early… Fall in Central New York is unreal.

Favorite place to enjoy the outdoors in CNY? I just like to get out of the city and go over hill and dale on my bike. I meet friends in Liverpool and I’ll go west toward Elbridge and Memphis. I’m part of the Onondaga Cycling Club.

Why is this solar eclipse so significant? A total solar eclipse is a rare event. The path of the total eclipse is fairly narrow — it isn’t even 100 miles in diameter — and it sweeps across the surface of the earth quickly. So you’re not going to be in totality for long. It’s a matter of a couple minutes and that’s it. And before you’re in totality you have a partial eclipse, and then it’ll hit totality. That is the only time when you take your glasses off, and it’s a spectacular view. Anyone who’s ever seen a total eclipse will say it is otherworldly. It’s so cool.

What’s your favorite experience with Syracuse Astronomical Society? Big comets when they come. Halley’s Comet in ‘86 was pretty nice. I’ve seen a lot of other comets. I love getting young kids up to the eyepiece of our telescope and having them look at something for the first time and go “Oh, wow. This is really something.” It’s just great to turn on the next generation to what I got excited with when I was that age.

What are you most looking forward to seeing? When it’s fully eclipsed, when totality hits and you look up, the sky darkens, the stars and planets that are near the sun will suddenly be visible in the sky — bright stars and planets and you see a glow around it that is the sun’s corona. And I’ve only seen it

once. I’ve only seen one total eclipse and that was the one in 2017, and that’s the show. It’s very impressive.

Is there anything important people should know about it? The instant you see that sun making a bright glow at one end of the moon, you look away. You put your glasses on, then you look back up with your glasses. It’s called the diamond ring effect. And the crazy thing about this is [if you don’t have your glasses on] you can do damage to your eye before you feel you’re doing damage to your eye. The danger with a total eclipse is when it is finishing up and suddenly a little bit of the sun starts to peek out and it becomes brilliantly bright. That can do damage unless you instantly look away. And I mean instantly. Don’t look for a second or a half a second.

For more information: visit Syracuse Astronomical Society on Facebook.