Family Times Parenting Magazine April 2015

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The Parenting Guide of Central New York www.familytimes.biz | April 2015

Summer Fun and Camp Fair see p. 19!

Out on a Limb Kids’ adventures in nature

Why state tests don’t work The Earth Day conversation Maggie Lamond Simone’s new memoir April15_1-23.indd 1

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Contents

FAMILY TIMES • APRIL 2015

4 • Editor’s Note 6 • Show & Tell

Summer Fun and Camp Fair offers a chance to plan your kids’ vacation.

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8 • Together Times

Start a conversation with your kids about Earth Day.

10 • Because I Said So

State tests for grades 3 through 8 don’t work.

12 • Kids These Days 8

In her new memoir, Maggie Lamond Simone tackles the stigma surrounding mental illness.

14 • Out on a Limb

Allowing children to explore outdoors brings untold benefits.

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25 • Family Fun Calendar of Events Advertiser Index

Your Kid’s Photo or Artwork Here!

We welcome reader submissions, whether photos of your kids or their artwork. Send high-resolution photos (jpg format saved at 3inches-by-5-inches or larger) or color artwork to editorial@family times.biz. Please include the child’s first name, age, hometown, and information about what’s going on in the photo (or the art), as well as the parent or guardian’s full name and daytime phone number, for verification.

Learn.................................18 Camp Fair Directory ...............19 Party...................................25 Practice...............................25 Backpack Directory................ 35

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Editor’s Note

family times The Parenting

Guide of Central New York

APRIL 2015

ISSUE NO. 156

PUBLISHER/OWNER Bill Brod

The Great Outdoors

EDITOR IN CHIEF Reid Sullivan editorial@familytimes.biz VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Michelle Bowers (Ext. 114) MBowers@syracusenewtimes.com MANAGING EDITOR Bill DeLapp

L

ocal parks, forests and nature centers offer many opportunities for kids to learn and grow. Children can discover animal tracks (and scat), buds on trees, and nests of birds. Almost certainly they’ll get dirty, and they may also get scraped or bruised—or just scared. But along the way they may find out they’re more capable and resourceful than they imagined. The feature story on page 14 looks at the many ways kids benefit by spending time in the woods.

Earth Day takes place on April 22. The holiday is a chance to talk to kids about the environment and how we all can behave in way that encourages conservation and discourages waste (page 8).

Also this month, Michael Gilbert offers an insightful opinion piece on state tests for grades 3 through 8, which take place in April (page 10).

And in this issue we have an excerpt from Maggie Lamond Simone’s new memoir, Body Punishment (page 12). We hope you’ll look for her book when it comes out April 15.

Finally, the Family Times Summer Fun and Camp Fair takes place at the State Fairgrounds on Saturday, April 11, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. On page 6, we provide a few details about the event and several photos of the fun everyone had last year. We hope to see you there.

PHOTOGRAPHY EDITOR Michael Davis CIRCULATION DIRECTOR Tom Tartaro (Ext. 134) CREATIVE SERVICES MANAGER Caitlin O’Donnell DESIGNER Meaghan Arbital DIGITAL MEDIA MANAGER Ty Marshal (ext. 144) CONTRIBUTORS Deborah Cavanagh,Tammy DiDomenico, Aaron Gifford, Eileen Gilligan, Emma Kress, Linda Lowen, Cary Rector, Tonja Rector, Maggie Lamond Simone, Laura Livingston Snyder, Chris Xaver ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS Advertising Sales Manager Jessica Luisi (ext. 139) JLuisi@syracusenewtimes.com Lesli Mitchell (ext. 140) LMitchell@syracusenewtimes.com Lija Spoor (ext. 111) LijaSpoor@syracusenewtimes.com Joseph Taranto (ext. 115) JTaranto@syracusenewtimes.com

Reid Sullivan Editor in Chief

COMPTROLLER Deana Vigliotti (ext. 118) CLASSIFIED SALES Lija Spoor (ext. 111)

Cover: There’s lots to do in the woods, including catching salamanders (and putting them back, of course), crossing logs or building forts. For more on adventures to be had in nature, see the feature story on page 14.

Inside: Meaghan Arbital is an award-winning local illustrator and a designer for Family Times and the Syracuse New Times. See more of her work at marbital.com.

Meaghan Arbital illustrations.

Subscribe to Family Times by mail and receive 12 issues for only $20.

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Advertising deadline for May is April 16. Calendar deadline for May is April 3.

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6 - Show & Tell

Fill up the Summer

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ooking for ideas to plan your family’s summer? Need details about day camps and other programs? That’s what Family Times’ Summer Fun and Camp Fair is for. The 11th annual event takes place Saturday, April 11, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the State Fairgrounds in Geddes.

While parents browse displays of more than 30 vendors for summer programs, camps and destinations, kids can check out a variety of activities, sponsored by Flamingo Bowl of Liverpool. Fort Rickey Discovery Zoo will be bringing live animals, and babies from Rohe Farm will also make an appearance. Kids can jump in bounce houses from Marty’s Party Rental. And visitors can meet dogs from Cuse Pit Crew pit bull advocacy. Admission to the Summer Fun and Camp Fair is free. For more information, call 472-4669.

Michael Davis photos from Summer Fun and Camp Fair 2014

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8 - Earth Day

JUPITERIMAGES PHOTO

together TIMES

Earth Day Talking Points You can discuss the environment with your kids | BY DIANE WILLIAMSON

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arth Day, April 22, reminds us every year about the importance of the environment. Many parents are concerned about problems like climate change, habitat destruction and plastic pollution, but they worry that these topics are too scary for kids.

Nevertheless, tackling such topics gives you a chance to introduce scientific concepts and instill the importance of making responsible choices. By addressing environmental problems, we take a step toward raising thoughtful citizens of the planet.

Here are some ideas for discussing these topics with kids.

Keep it simple. Most environmental problems are based in simple scientific facts. Food decomposes and becomes dirt; plastic does not. Metal and glass can be recycled continuously; plastic cannot.

Our electricity often comes from burning either coal or natural gas. Getting coal and natural gas requires that we either destroy a mountain or blast water (and chemicals) underground. The smoke (carbon dioxide) that comes from burning coal, wood, natural gas, and gasoline traps heat in the atmosphere. (You can watch a simple experiment online with Bill Nye that shows the thermometer in a jar filled with carbon dioxide goes up faster than a thermometer in a jar filled with normal air.) Ice on the 8

earth is melting because the earth is getting warmer.

expressed by the saying “When the going gets tough, the tough get going.”

You don’t need to plan a whole lecture on a given topic, just introduce your kids to some of these simple facts when the time is right.

Learn together. Your kids will ask questions you don’t have the answers for.

Educate yourself and learn with them. The NASA website is a great resource for climate change questions. Andrea’s kids like to watch the Planet Earth documentary series and the Cosmos television series. My kids love Magic School Bus books—the original ones are as long as a chapter book!—which never fail to teach me something new.

Talk about your behaviors and choices. When is the time right? Andrea Buckvold, mom to Sadie, age 10, and Harry, 7, is able to find opportunities during their daily routine. “For example, while shopping at the grocery store, we were looking at the various fruits available in February, and pointing out where they were grown (all of them very far away).” When you ask your kids to turn off lights when they leave their rooms or put on socks instead of turning up the heat, remind them that making electricity often makes pollution.

Focus on the solution. One reason that I’m not afraid to talk with my kids about environmental problems is because I know there are potential solutions. Burlington, Vt., now generates enough electricity from renewable resources to power the whole city. Denmark will be totally freed from fossil fuel use by 2050. My kids got to see a car that plugs in up close when my mom decided to buy a Prius plug-in last year. Of course, I don’t have all the answers, but I want my kids to feel the optimism

Use local resources. The public libraries have many science books for kids that concentrate on explaining environmental problems. Some of you may remember that Bill Nye, the Science Guy, had his own TV show; those DVDs are also at the library.

Magazines like National Geographic Kids and Ranger Rick encourage reading about the environment. A visit to the Rosamond Gifford Zoo helps introduce the topics of habitat loss and deforestation, which are mentioned on descriptive placards by the animals’ enclosures. The MOST has exhibits that address sea level rise and the Onondaga Lake cleanup project. The Sciencecenter in Ithaca—free if you’re a MOST member—is great for encouraging reuse, and the Museum of the Earth, also in Ithaca, excels at giving visitors a global perspective.

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9 Repeat yourself. As with any other important topic, parents must get used to repeating themselves. You wouldn’t expect your kids to remember if you only told them one time to say “please” and “thank you.” Similarly, you repeat yourself with positive messages about love and values. You know you’ve said it enough when they start repeating it back to you. Sean Conrey, father of Mira and Emily, 8-year-old twins, remarks that his kids are not shy about pointing out “some hypocrisy we live with, as when they know that we could walk somewhere, but we drive.”

Still, many environmental problems are abstract and only make sense to kids over time. In writing this story, I asked my kids to tell me what some of the problems going on with the earth are. My 7-year-old son had a lot to say, while my 3-yearold daughter, eager to get in on the conversation, added, “uh . . . vampires?”

Enjoy. To me the best part about sharing environmental knowledge with my kids is that we can bond over a common passion. The other day I was sitting on the couch reading an article in the Sierra Club magazine about offshore wind power. My son came up and asked that I read a bit to him. One picture was of a factory housing turbines bigger than airplanes; the turbine is the center part of the gigantic windmill, where the magnet is spun to generate electricity. After a bit of back and forth about the logistics, we both sat together, staring in awe. “Isn’t that cool?” I asked. “Yeah,” he agreed.

Diane Williamson lives with her husband and two children in Syracuse. She works with Citizens Climate Lobby to push the government for meaningful climate change legislation and the divestment movement to urge universities not to invest their endowments in fossil fuels.

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TAKASUU | GETTY IMAGES

because I SAID SO

Why Tests Fail

Standardized exams don’t help students | BY MICHAEL GILBERT

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n April, public school students in grades 3 through 8 will take Common Core ELA (English Language Arts) and mathematics tests required by the New York State Testing Program. The testing occurs April 14 through 16 for ELA and April 22 through 24 for math.

Many parents have questions about these exams, and there has been a great deal of debate regarding their merit. But the concerns are not just about the tests; it’s the year-round impact of the increased emphasis on testing. There has been an ongoing focus in the media regarding the idea that American schools are failing when compared with other nations. Both the No Child Left Behind law and Race to the Top educational competition grants are built on this false narrative. This misguided, test-driven thinking has dominated the U.S. public education system for the past two decades and ultimately has led to our current predicament.

On international tests, American students don’t appear to do very well, but the truth is they never have—not since 1964 when the first such test was completed. The United States was never a world leader on these international tests and its students’ scores have typically been at the median or even lower. During these years, the U.S. often outperformed other nations in more essential areas, such as overall economy and technological advances. Perhaps most important to note is that these test scores are not even a valid predictor of economic prosperity or of global competitiveness.

What are often overlooked in these comparisons are factors such as poverty.

When poverty is taken into consideration, 10

American students rate quite favorably on international comparisons. In fact, in schools where less than 10 percent of students get free or reduced lunch, U.S. students were No. 2 on the international ranking for reading.

Poverty is a problem, not our schools.

Among the nations taking these international tests, we have the highest rate of child poverty. There is always room for improvement in the education system, but we are actually seeing a decline in performance as a result of new reform policies and increased testing.

Most agree that there is a role for standardized tests—if they are limited in duration and frequency, developmentally appropriate, and provide useful feedback for classroom instruction. New York state tests fail to meet these standards and are misused for school accountability purposes.

In addition, there really is no meaningful benefit for students. The tests don’t affect their report cards or grade placement.

Unfortunately, many students will still feel a sense of pressure and stress surrounding the tests. Some might argue that students need to learn how to take this type of test and handle the anxiety that might accompany it. However, there are probably better ways to accomplish this goal. Some high-performing countries wait until high school before administering standardized tests and instead focus on developing life skills.

The excessive focus on testing also has had negative effects on the quality of education. The state tests have narrowed the curriculum. Subjects such as science, social studies, art and music get short shrift.

In elementary schools, children are being required to perform tasks that are developmentally inappropriate, and there is less time for recess, unstructured play and physical education. Less time for creative learning, critical thinking and social-emotional skills. Limited funds are funneled away from direct resources for students. Current policies actually stifle and undermine the necessary and notably American traits of imagination, creativity and innovation that make this country a leader in so many ways.

Another drawback is that results of state tests are not available to teachers and parents until the student has already started the next grade. Clearly individual feedback about a child’s strengths and challenges is not being provided. Teachers know our kids; they are working with them throughout the school year and using assessments that are already completed in the classroom. Yet another significant problem is the inappropriateness of tests given to English language learners and special education students.

Unfortunately, state test scores are used inappropriately to evaluate your child’s teachers. Using test scores to hold teachers accountable has no research to support it.

There is no evidence that the tests produce better teachers or better education.

Studies find that teachers account for only a small percentage of the variability in test scores. The majority of the variation in test scores is attributable to factors outside of the teacher’s control. Doing well in school depends on family and community support, student motivation, adequate resources, appropriate class sizes, experienced teachers and students who arrive to school healthy, well-fed and cared for.

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11 Education is not a race. It is about the growth and development of every child. It’s about having the opportunity to develop one’s abilities and pursue one’s passions. We have a natural love for learning, and education should provide an environment that is engaging, challenging, motivating, safe and joyful.

TAKASUU | GETTY IMAGES

So when it comes to annual New York state testing, it’s not just about the test. It is about the larger picture of public education.

Most students will take the annual tests, and we should encourage them to do their best. However, we shouldn’t overemphasize them. If your child is nervous about the tests, talk to him and reassure him.

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Children should put forth their best efforts, but tell them that they are not expected to know all the answers. Relaxation, mindfulness or other approaches might also help.

Some parents will choose to refuse state tests. There are different reasons some parents opt out, but the main reason is to bring change to a system that is failing our children. It is essential that parents understand they have a voice in the future of their child’s education. Talk to teachers and principals about the current state of education, attend a school board meeting, or call or write your local and state legislator.

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Testing may always be a part of our public education system, but that doesn’t mean we need to sacrifice the quality of education or the development of the whole child.

Michael Gilbert, Psy.D., is a school psychologist with the Syracuse City School District and founder of the non-profit It’s About Childhood & Family, Inc. He has worked in a variety of settings with children and families for the past 25 years. He lives with his wife and two daughters in DeWitt.

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Not a ‘Freak’

“It took me a long time to understand that I can’t treat my mental illness with willpower.“

Remove mental illness’ stigma, and let the conversation begin

BY MAGGIE LAMOND SIMONE

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hen I first started having migraines, people were concerned. I was concerned. I was taken to the doctor, put in a dark room, injected with medication, fussed over. The more people who knew, the better, as far as I was concerned, because that meant a better chance of getting helped. And without exception, whoever I told expressed sympathy.

When you tell people you have an illness, that’s often the response: sympathy. They may ask questions about the symptoms, the kinds of medications you’re taking or the kinds of therapies you might be on and whether they’re working. You can talk about side effects of the medications, the efficacy of the treatments in your particular case at that particular time, how your family might be coping with your illness, or how it is affecting your career and your day-to-day life.

Put “mental” before “illness” in that paragraph, however, and the conversation changes—if it is started at all.

I struggled with obsessive-compulsive disorder all of my life, although I didn’t know the name for it for many years. I knew by 18 that I was an alcoholic and continued to drink for another decade. The stigma surrounding most types of mental illness and addiction almost guarantees that we don’t seek help. And the self-esteem issues from that stigma can be debilitating, especially to children.

One of the only differences between physical illnesses and diseases (cancer in all its many forms, diabetes, heart disease) and mental illnesses and disorders (depression, obsessive-compulsive disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorder, attention deficit disorder) is geography.

A child or teenager should be able to tell his parents he has uncontrollable compul12

sions as easily as he can tell them he has a sore throat. Many if not most mental illnesses are treated similarly to physical illnesses: with medication, therapy, lifestyle changes, diet management. Society’s reaction to mental illnesses has always been another story. Mental illnesses have often been treated as a weakness, a character flaw. A failing.

My memoir, Body Punishment: OCD, Addiction, and Finding the Courage to Heal, was written to help start the conversation.

I signed up for karate two weeks before I turned 30.

I was single and had been in recovery one year. I had not yet discovered antidepressants and was convinced my uncontrollable mood swings and anxiety were just really bad PMS, even though I knew many women with PMS and didn’t know any who did what I did. I plucked out my eyelashes and eyebrows and picked at my face if no hair was available.

When I put on my karate uniform for the first time, I weighed 99 pounds. One of the other women in class laughed because she couldn’t pull my size zero skirt up over her thigh. My body was the most recent in a lifetime of changing and often unbearable obsessions.

I’d spent the vast majority of my life feeling like a freak because there couldn’t possibly be anybody else on earth who did to herself what I did to myself. There couldn’t be another human being who felt about herself the way I felt about myself.

How someone who was so smart could feel that way, act that way and do those things without being able to stop, I could never understand. How could I intellectually rationalize pulling out my own eyelash-

es? I couldn’t. But if I couldn’t rationalize it, then why couldn’t I stop? Instead I spent my first two decades of life searching for the solution to the indefinable void where my sense of self should have been, and the next decade pretending I didn’t need it.

I’ve since found out, of course, that the void is no longer indefinable.

But until I found out what it was, at the embarrassingly late age of 52, I was always looking for something to blame. If I could find it, then maybe I could fix it. I’d felt like an outsider since I was old enough to know what an outsider was, and I needed to know why. All the things I did were so random that I didn’t even know where to begin to find a common thread. And so for almost 40 years I thought I was simply a lightning rod for crazy.

But I wasn’t. What I have falls under the heading of obsessive-compulsive disorders.

One term. One concept. OCD. Throw in anxiety and addiction—in my case, alcoholism—and it all falls into place. Back then, though—as a kid, through adolescence, puberty, teens, 20s, 30s—all I knew was this: I was a freak, and I was alone.

It took me a long time to understand that I can’t treat my mental illness with willpower any more than I can treat my migraines with it—and even longer to realize I shouldn’t have to. I’m hoping that by sharing my story, others will realize it as well.

This article is adapted from the memoir Body Punishment: OCD, Addiction, and Finding the Courage to Heal, being published in April by Central Recovery Press of Las Vegas.

Maggie Lamond Simone is an award-winning writer and mother of two living in Baldwinsville. Reach her at maggiesimone@verizon.net.

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12 - Kids These Days

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Family Times April 2015

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Out on a Limb Adventures in the great outdoors

By Aaron Gifford

S

ometimes kids need a shove to get them outdoors. Trees, streams or wildflowers might not have the same hold on them as video games with worldclass athletes, jet fighters or lovable creatures from outer space.

But children who get a taste of the outdoors beyond their neighborhoods can change their minds. Let him discover a crawfish under the rocks.

Challenge her to climb and swing on some vines. Give them the chance to listen to the midsummer locusts and smell the wild mints.

“There’s something to be said about exploration in that adult-less freedom,” says Tom Meier of the Baltimore Woods Nature Center in Marcellus. “There’s quite a bit of mental, physical, emotional and spiritual development taking place. Any green space, even a vacant lot, can be a huge wonderland.”

As Baltimore Woods’ camp director, Meier oversees youth programs and camps that take place during school breaks. Over the past seven years he’s seen how children respond to new terrain and unexplored spaces. It’s thrilling to watch students in the Nature in the City program—a partnership with Syracuse and Auburn schools—as they walk into the woods for the first time in their lives.

“The younger kids are nervous about a bear or a lion,” Meier says.

“My message is ‘It’s OK to touch stuff.

Nothing is going to hurt you. It’s OK to turn over rocks and touch bugs and get dirty.’ When you see that sense of wonder—like a kid observing a woodpecker for the first time—it’s pretty exciting.”

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BWNC PHOTO

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MICHAEL DAVIS PHOTO

“When you see that sense of wonder—like a kid observing a woodpecker for the first time—it’s pretty exciting.”

—Tom Meier During a typical school group visit, depending on the season, not much time passes before younger kids start collecting bark, leaves and sticks while their older peers make plans to dam up the creek. Before the end of a visit, trees will be climbed and forts will be built.

tion to the partnership with Baltimore Woods, the school district also sends third-graders on a visit to Elmwood Park, where they conduct stream studies and measure water quality based on the number and types of organisms present in the stream.

Meier, the son of an Army soldier, lived in seven different states growing up. Fishing with the neighborhood kids was always his favorite activity. He joined Boy Scouts, decided at an early age that he didn’t want to work in an office, and went to the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry in Syracuse after high school.

Ellen Eagan says her son, 13-year-old Ben, and daughter, 9-year-old Sarah, participated in the Nature in the City program before they decided to enroll in summer day camp at the nature center.

At the time they were signed up, Eagan was just looking for a way to separate her kids from electronic devices for a few hours each day. She says that decision continues to pay dividends.

About 10,000 students in the Syracuse City School District participate in Baltimore Woods’ Nature in the City program each academic year. Michael Henesey, the district’s communications coordinator, said in an email interview that the program helps students better understand both scientific concepts and the natural world around them. In addi-

Sarah now likes to lead her parents on long walks in the woods and point out the different types of plants, trees and wildlife. Eagan says she’s especially impressed that Sarah can spend time alone in her backyard—any time of year—and just enjoy her surroundings.

Photos on pages 14 to 17 show activities at Baltimore Woods Nature Center.

April15_1-23.indd 15

BWNC PHOTO

“There is a lot of fear of kids not being safe outside,” Meier says. “You have parents who would not want (a child) to cross a log over the stream. They might fall and get wet, but they wouldn’t get hurt. And for the kid, that risk and sense of accomplishment is huge.”

The children had to toughen up; all participants were expected to be outside all the time, regardless of heat, chilly winds or rain, as they learned to value, understand and respect nature. Camp topics included the causes of forest fires; staying hydrated for long hikes; and dressing appropriately for hot and cold conditions. They also learned the value of teamwork, as the youngsters are expected to work together to help slower or less fit kids finish difficult treks.

BWNC PHOTO

He notes that while the attraction of electronic devices deserves much of the blame for kids spending less time outside than their parents did, over-supervision is also a factor.

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16 - Feat

Ben, meanwhile, has from his time at the camp developed a strong work ethic that has carried over into schoolwork and sports, especially running and swimming, where he’s constantly pushing himself.

“It went up like you threw gasoline on it,” Mosure says. “That’s something he learned.

Also, he was so careful about making sure we signed in before we started up any mountain.

He always initiated that. He’s developed that sense of responsibility.”

“Endurance and grit,” Eagan says. “Dealing with what’s given to you and not complaining about anything. That’s not something you learn in school.”

Mosure says his son’s fascination with nature has carried over into his schoolwork. He excels in science, especially during lab time, as well as with any subjects that involve hands-on work.

Greg Mosure, of Marcellus, says his son Ethan, now 14, has also benefited from time at Baltimore Woods. The Mosures moved to Syracuse from Columbus, Ohio, in 2010. Their old surroundings included streets, sidewalks and strip malls. The only tree-lined area large enough to drown out the sound of the highways was 45 minutes away.

“His self-awareness and level of maturity is what I’ve noticed the most,” Mosure says. “When he’s on a trail, he’s almost like a completely different person. He’s very aware of everything around him. He carries himself differently.”

“It was quite an undertaking just to get to a place where you could walk somewhere that was quiet for an hour,” Mosure says.

At the Baltimore Woods summer program in 2011, the 10-year-old went from a high-structured learning environment to an unstructured one.

“They ramble through the woods, build forts, discover their way around,” Mosure says. “They have a mud day where they wear older clothes, look for small animals in the water and get a little dirty. It’s not regimented but selfdirected.”

16

Since his participation at Baltimore Woods, Ethan has hiked six of the Adirondack High Peaks. At Mount Marcy one time, when Mosure forgot to bring kindling for a campfire, Ethan immediately pulled bark off a birch tree and lit the fire himself.

BWNC PHOTOS

“In the winter, she has developed an eye for telling the difference between lake effect snowflakes and other snowflakes,” Eagan says. “In the warm whether she likes to just sit, relax and look at the clouds. Having that space of contemplation is a beautiful thing. And anything she finds outside, she’ll use it in artwork.”

Meier, the camp director, says that even with his considerable knowledge and experience of Central New York forests, he still finds himself discovering new things. In his mind, a guide can’t consider himself experienced until he’s spent a decade hiking the same trails. Last year he did a “black light hike” and, for the first time in his life, saw what hundreds of thousands of insects do after dark on clear summer nights.

“The insects and plants glow, the water turns green. The millipedes that hide during the day come out from the logs,” he says. “The more you look at some things, the more there is to discover.”

Aaron Gifford is an award-winning writer who lives in Cazenovia with his wife and two children.

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“They ramble through the woods, build forts, discover their way around.”

—Greg Mosure

BWNC PHOTOS

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Learn

Terra Science and Education offers summer programs for students of all ages!

SewSyracuse Seamstress

Private and small group sewing lessons www.sewsyracuse.com 315-427-1994

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Summer Arts & Science: Students entering grades 3-8 develop a love of learning

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18

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19 - Camp

Are you ready for high

WHAT

adventure

TO DO

this summer?

WHERE

Summer Activity Planner

Free!

Where will your kids be this summer?

TO GO

WHAT

We have that and

much more!

Saturday, April 11th, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Empire Expo Center / NY State Fairgrounds, Syracuse

Where Central New York families go to plan their summer!

TO SEE

Remember that summer feeling – the feeling of freedom, excitement and possibilities that pack every moment with something fun? You were in charge of your adventure, and it was awesome.

This summer, let Girl Scouts be the gateway to that summer feeling for your girl. She’ll discover exciting activities with brand new friends. She’ll challenge her limits in a safe environment, with supportive adults by her side. You’ll be amazed at the skills and confidence she brings home. Summer is waiting at Girl Scout Camp!

Start your adventure today at

HOW

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Camp Comstock (near Ithaca). gsnypenn.org/SummerCamp

Find it all at the Family Times Summer Fun & Camp Fair!

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Camps include a snack and have a theme such as music, art, fitness and science each day. All end with a pizza party on the last day and a live character visit!

Visit our website for more info.

kidzclubfun.com • (315) 695-2211• 219 Rt. 57, Phoenix Family Times April 2015

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Summer Activity Planner

20 - Camp

CALL NOW: 652-1875

SIGN UP NOW!

www.lemoyne.edu/summerinstitute (315) 445-4230 Le Moyne College

arts Summer

Institute

Film Theatre Strings Musical Theatre

Joan Condlin’s LIVERPOOL School of Dance Early Registration for Summer & Fall

AGES 21/2 & UP

July 6 – 17 July 6 – 17 July 20 – 24 July 27 – 31

BEGINNER TO ADVANCED

SUMMER DANCE July 20-23, July 27-30 www.liverpoolschoolofdance.com

Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Pointe & Lyrical 7948 Morgan Rd., Liverpool Est. 1972 • Member of DEA

s cre Sports Field North Syracuse Central School District c led by our own “Mr. lower” Early Education Program ross Swim Lessons taught rtified WSI/Red Cross Now enrolling our 6 we Since 1966 e ctors & 2015/16 School Year k Summer Sc hool s  Horses • 2, 3 and 5 day options  Full Acre Sports Field e Study • Focus on Kindergarten readiness skills led by our own “Mr.  Music Horses for Horses ront Swim Lessons & social emotional development NYS certified Horses  Full Acre Sports Field Full Acre Sports Field Songflower” Horses Campers by our own “Mr.  Music ledSwim Full Acre Sports Field Lessons taught  “Mr. Red Teachers & • Healthy snack served daily Acre Sports Field  FullCross Music led by our own Songflower”  Horses by led bySwim our Lessons own “Mr. certified WSI/Red Cross Musicinledour by our own “Mr. ming own Teaching  Music Red Cross taught Songflower”  on-site Full Acre Sports Field • Indoor & Outdoor motor areas Songflower” by certified WSI/Red Cross Instructors  Music led

by Swim our own “Mr. Assistants. edin-ground Cross Swim Lessons dSongflower” pool Cross Lessons taught  taught RedInstructors • Integrated Preschool for 3 & 4 year olds Songflower”  Sports certified WSI/Red Cross  by Sports Red Cross Swim Lessons taught y certified WSI/Red Cross On-site RN & the art playground  Instructors Nature Study Lessons taught Cross Swim • Full & Half day classes available Study  Red Nature WSI/Red Cross byofcertified nstructors LPN staff  certified Sports Swim Lessons Lakefront by WSI/Red Crossfor oups are led by certified • Before & After school options Instructors  Instructors Swim Lessons for Campers Older Study Lakefront Nature Sports  Swimming in our own on-site Older Lakefront Swim Lessons for Campers Sports Study ers  Sports Nature in-ground pool heated Campers Older Nature Study  Lessons Horses in our own on-site activities for State of in theour artown playground Nature Study 205 S. Main St., N. Syracuse • 218-2222 • www.nscsd.org/main.cfm on-site Swimming Swimming Swim Lakefront ational outdoor  All groups areLessons led pool by pool certified Lakefront Swim for  Acreheated Sports Field  Full in-ground in-ground heated Swim Lessons for Older Campers teachers Older Campers yLakefront special events  State of the art playground  Music led by our own “Mr. ofin the artby on-site playground  on-site State  Recreational outdoor activities Older Campers Swimming in our Songflower” own Weekly Sessions from July 6 - August 28, 2015 Swimming our own groups are led certified   AllWeekly special ded hours breakfast Cross AllSwim groups are events led by certifiedWeekly Sessions from July 6 - August 28, 2015 teachers heated in-ground pool in & own on-site Swimming in-ground pool heated ourRed Lessons Extended hours taught & breakfast ST. MARGARET’S SUMMER CAMP 2015 outdoor activities teachers Recreational State of the art playground  available heated in-ground pool by certified WSI/Red Cross ble of the art playground State  groups Weekly special events Four supervised, exciting optional All are ledoutdoor by certified activitiesWeekly Sessions from July 6 - August 28, 2015  certified State of the art playground hours & breakfast Recreational Extended Join us for a summer you will never forget!

All groups areexciting ledInstructors by overnights throughout the summer upervised, optional teachers Sports available one through seven for grades special events  Weekly All groups are led by certified eachers  the Recreational outdoor activities Weekly Sessions from July 6 August 28, 2015 Nature Study ights throughout summer Andsupervised, much more exciting optional  Four  activities Extended hours & the breakfast teachers Weekly special events Recreational overnights throughout summer Swim Lessons for  Lakefront Weekly Sessions from July 6 - August 28, 2015 rades one outdoor through seven available  activities Extended hoursone& through breakfast seven for grades Recreational Older Campers Weekly specialoutdoor events much  in Andour available Weekly supervised, excitingSessions optional from July 6 - August 28, 2015  Four Swimming ownmore on-site much special events Weeklymore hours & breakfast Extended  Four supervised, exciting optionalSessions from July 6 - August 28, 2015 Weekly

poolthroughout the summer heated in-ground overnights Extended hours & breakfast overnights throughout the summer available  State of thegrades art playground one through for grades one through seven seven for available our supervised,  exciting All groups optional are led by certified And much more  the And much more Four supervised, exciting optional teachers overnights throughout summer  through Recreational outdoor activities throughout the summer overnights or grades one seven  through Weekly special for much gradesmore one sevenevents And Weekly Sessions from July 6 - August 28, 2015  Extended hours & breakfast And much more  

available Four supervised, exciting optional overnights throughout the summer for grades one through seven And much more

AROUND THE WORLD IN 35 DAYS!

Examples of Weekly Camp Themes Week #1 June 29-July 3 “Passports Here We Come” For more Email: ceds1@verizon.net Website: information/tour Week # 2 July 6-10 www.creativeenvironmentdayschool.com 531 E. Genesee Street Sheila C. Brittain, Director call “Old Glory Days in the U.S.A.” Fayetteville, New York 13066 C.E.D.S. is accredited by the For more Email: ceds1@verizon.net NYS Education Department and licensed by NYSOCFS Week #3 July 13-17 Our Summer Day Camp Program is licensed by Onondaga County.

Website: School year program runs September - June for 18 mo. - Kindergarten, information/tour www.creativeenvironmentdayschool.com Before and After School Programs: Kindergarten through Fourth Grade “Buenos Dias Off to Spain” Sheila C. Brittain, Director call C.E.D.S. is accredited by the Week #4 July 20-24 531 Department E. Genesee Street NYS Education and licensed

by NYSOCFS Our Summer Day Camp Program is licensed by Onondaga County.

Fayetteville, New York 13066 “Booted Out To Italy” School year program runs September - June for 18 mo. - Kindergarten, Before and After School Programs: Kindergarten through Fourth Grade For more Email: ceds1@verizon.net Week # 5 July 27-31 Website: information/tour www.creativeenvironmentdayschool.com “Follow the China Road” 531 E. Genesee Street Sheila C. Brittain, Director call Fayetteville, New York 13066 Week # 6 Aug. 3–7 C.E.D.S. is accredited by the NYS Education Department and licensed

by NYSOCFS ForHow more 531 E. OurGenesee Street Email: ceds1@verizon.net Tall is the Eiffel Tower?”

Summer Street Day Camp Program is licensed by Onondaga County.

531 E. Genesee School year program runs September - June for 18 mo. - Kindergarten, Website: 531 E. Before Genesee Street Fayetteville, New York 13066 E.School Genesee Street and After Programs: Kindergarten through Fourth Grade information/tour Fayetteville, New531 York 13066 Week # 7 Aug. 10–14 www.creativeenvironmentdayschool.com Fayetteville, York 13066 Fayetteville, New YorkNew 13066 ForFor more Email: ceds1@verizon.net Email: ceds1@verizon.net “Top of the Morning to You from Ireland” Sheila C. Brittain, Director more Email: ceds1@verizon.net call 531 E. Genesee Street Fayetteville, New York 13066

637-6071

637-6071

637-6071

For more

For more information/tour information/tour information/tour Call for details call call School year program runs September June for 18 mo.

- Kindergarten, Sheila C. Brittain, Director Sheila C. Brittain, Director call call 455-5791 C.E.D.S. is accredited theAfter School Programs: Kindergarten through Fourth Grade Beforebyand

Email: Website: ceds1@verizon.net Website: the Website: Website: C.E.D.S. is accredited by information/tour www.creativeenvironmentdayschool.com www.creativeenvironmentdayschool.com NYS Education Department and licensed by NYSOCFS www.creativeenvironmentdayschool.com www.creativeenvironmentdayschool.com Summer DayDirector Camp Program is licensed by Onondaga County.

Sheila C. Brittain, Director SheilaOur C. Brittain, C.E.D.S. is accredited by the NYS Education Department and licensed by NYSOCFS

Daily Activities include weekly themed activities, sports, outdoor games, arts-n-crafts, swimming & more!

Campers will also go on weekly field trips.

Summer Camp Hours : 9am-3pm Free Extended Hours: 7-9am & 3-5:30pm Breakfast, Lunch & Snack included $40.00 Registration Fee Due with Registration Papers

637-6071 637-6071 Summer Camp Director: Donna Skrocki 637-6071 637-6071 Site Coordinators: Rebecca Marino, Crystal Skrocki & Dee Finnigan 637-6071

NYS EducationC.E.D.S. Department andCamp licensed by isNYSOCFS is accredited by the Our Summer Day Program licensed C.E.D.S. is accredited by the by Onondaga County.

Our Summer Day Camp Program isand licensed

by Onondaga NYS Education Department licensed by - NYSOCFS School year program runs September June forCounty.

18 mo. - Kindergarten, NYS Education Department and licensed

by County.

NYSOCFS School program - June for 18 - Kindergarten, Before and After School Programs: Kindergarten through Fourth Grade Ouryear Summer Day runs CampSeptember Program is licensed by mo.

Onondaga Before and After School Programs: Kindergarten through Grade County.

Our Summer Day runs Camp Program is licensed Onondaga School year program September - June for 18 mo.by -Fourth Kindergarten, Before and After School Programs: Kindergarten through Fourth Grade School year program runs September - June for 18 mo. - Kindergarten,

Before and After School Programs: Kindergarten through Fourth Grade

20

Family Times April 2015

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21 - Camp Summer Activity Planner

2015 HOT SUMMER DANCE at Dance Centre North Week-long Summer Dance Intensive July 6-10 | 9:00-4:00 (for ages 12-14 & 15-18) featuring guest artists Megan Dillon of BalletMet II Benny Simon & Sasha Smith NYC Artists

Young Dancers’ Summer Camp Blast 9:00-4:00 July 13-17 (for ages 6-9) SSummer Studies Program July 13 August 13 (ages 8-18)

n Days at

101 W. Molloy Rd. Syracuse | dancecentrenorth.com dancecentrenorth@gmail.com | 315.455.8641

Mystical Acres Summer Camps at

Social skills

A group of skills which help us be successful at communicating with others, making friends, and having enjoyable times together.

FRIENDS • STOP AND THINK EMOTIONS • CONVERSATIONS SELF-MONITORING

Dash the Donkey

Dr. Mettelman and colleagues will be presenting a series of summer camps for children that provide tools and direct experiences that help to build social skills, emotional awareness, executive functioning skills and self-esteem.

2015 Summer Camps

Stop Motion Animation

A Pirate’s Quest

Comic Creator

Pocket Brick Monsters

Jr. Robotics Mining & Crafting

Emmet’s World Amusement Parks

Full day options available Half day with Legos and Learning Half day with gymnastics and fun gym activities

Where: Mystical Acres, 2709 Brennan Road, Pompey, NY 13138 When: July and August Who to call: Dr. Mettelman, (315) 559-1319 Info: Visit our booth at the Summer Fun & Camp Fair or find Mystical Acres on Facebook

Learn more and Enroll online

www.bricks4kidz.com/cny or call (315) 632-8592

Camps are designed for children ages 5+

Family Times April 2015

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Summer Activity Planner

22 - Camp

Camp Rothschild June 29 - September 2 (closed Friday, July 3) For children ages 5 through 12 years old

• Daily Swimming Lessons & Free Swim (on-site heated swimming pool)

• Nature/Science Activities • Art Projects • Drama/Theater • Sports and Athletics • Field Trips, Camp Shirt, and Camp Water Bottle Included • Healthy Lunch and Snacks Included

Saturday, April 11th, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Empire Expo Center / NY State Fairgrounds, Syracuse Open Hand Theater’s

Circus Camp!

Specialty Choices include: Photography • Dance • Clay Sculpting Costume Design • Engineering • Poetry American Sign Language • Watercolors AND SO MUCH MORE!

A full day summer camp for children age 8-14 that teaches creative problem solving, leadership and teamwork.

Camp ends with a performance of the Giant Puppet Circus!

We are conveniently located near downtown Syracuse, DeWitt, Jamesville, and Fayetteville.

Session 1: July 6—17, Sat. Jul. 18 performance Session 2: July 20—31, Sat. Aug. 1 performance Session 3: Aug. 3—14, Sat. Aug. 15 performance

450 Kimber Road, Syracuse, NY 13224

ph: (315) 445 - 0049 • fax: (315) 445 - 9530 email: camprothschild@adath.org

www.camprothschild.org

Register online at www.openhandtheater.org

June 29 - August 21

315-445-2360

22

Call now to reserve a Spot!

Family Times April 2015

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23 - Camp Summer Activity Planner

EXPLORE CONNECT INSPIRE Summer Day Camps EXPLORE: At YMCA Summer Day Camps, children and teens can test their limits and reach their potential in a safe environment.

Each camp is unique, with offerings that include art, games, swimming, sports, field trips, archery, rock climbing and horseback riding. We have camps for kids aged 2 to16.

CONNECT: Our camps bring kids together around the activities they love. They’ll make new friends and lasting memories.

INSPIRE: Summer is for growing. Our camps keep your child’s mind and body active while nurturing the Y’s core values: caring, honesty, respect and t responsibility. et us a

Me amily the F s Time Fair!

Camp

pril 11 10-2 A airgrounds F State

Ready to learn more? Call or stop by any Y branch, or contact any of the camp directors below.

1) Summer Odyssey at the Northwest Family Y Caitlin Alcott: 635-1050; calcott@syracuseymca.org 2) Camp Y-Noah at the North Area Family Y Holly Kontak: 451-2562, ext. 226; hkontak@syracuseymca.org 2) Tween Camp at the North Area Family Y Tess Kenney: 451-2562, ext. 209; tkenney@syracuseymca.org 3) Summer Fun Club at Roxboro Elementary School in Mattydale Holly Kontak: 451-2562, ext. 226; hkontak@syracuseymca.org 4) Summer Fun Club at Christ Community Church in Camillus Liz Horne: 474-6851, ext. 315; lhorne@syracuseymca.org 5) Carrier Camp at Carrier Corporation in East Syracuse Kat Kane: 637-2025, ext. 231; kkane@syracuseymca.org 6) Arts & Sports Camps at the East Area Family Y Amanda Coyle: 637-2025, ext. 227; acoyle@syracuseymca.org 6) Bitty Bears, Kids and Teen/Tween Camps at the East Y Kelly Butters: 637-2025, ext. 207; kbutters@syracuseymca.org 7) YMCA Day Camp Iroquois Megan Davis: 637-2025, ext. 210; mdavis@syracuseymca.org 8) Dance, Junior Sports & Tennis Camps at the Manlius Y Lesley Wilcox: 692-4777, ext. 203; lwilcox@syracuseymca.org 9) Kids Camp at the Southwest Y Kelly Wentworth: 498-2893; kwentworth@syracuseymca.org

YMCA OF GREATER SYRACUSE • ycny.org Family Times April 2015

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Please note: Mistakes happen. To confirm

event details, call the sponsoring organization’s phone number or visit the website.

Friday, March 27

Syracuse Crunch. 7 p.m. The American Hockey League team faces the Bridgeport Sound Tigers.

War Memorial, 800 S. State St., Syracuse. $16-$20, plus applicable processing fees. 473-4444.

Saturday, March 28 Educational Foundation Recognition Breakfast. 8-10:30 a.m. Syracuse City School

District Education Foundation holds its annual fundraising breakfast to recognize people and organizations that have supported the city’s schools.

Oncenter Ballroom, 800 S. State St., Syracuse. $60/individual. Reservations required: 391-0259.

Biggest Bake Sale Ever and Easter Basket Sale. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. In addition to sale of baked

goods, Easter baskets for children and pets will also be sold to benefit HumaneCNY. Community Center, Towne Center, 102 Towne Drive, Fayetteville. 457-8762. www.humanecny.org.

Breakfast with the Bunny. 9-10 a.m. & 11 a.m.-noon. Hop on over to the zoo and enjoy a buffet meal with the bunny, plus face painting and more. Rosamond Gifford Zoo, 1 Conservation Place, Syracuse. $16/person (including zoo admission). Reservations required: 435-8511, Ext. 113.

CNY Baby Expo. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Exhibitors

display items or represent services related to new and expecting parents, including OB-GYNs, daycares, care seat checkers and more. Shoppingtown Mall, 3649 Erie Blvd. E., DeWitt. Free. 256-0116.

Living with Backyard Wildlife. 11 a.m.-noon.

Discover how to live with local wildlife and create a habitat that’s fun for you and safe for them.

Baltimore Woods Nature Center, 4007 Bishop Hill Road, Marcellus. $8. Register: 673-1350.

Everson Family Day. Noon-3 p.m. Explore the galleries and make art, including: a drip and splat work in the style of Jackson Pollock; a creature using colorful clay; and a 3D still life using tissue paper and pipe cleaners. Free tour for families at noon; check in at the visitors service desk. Everson Museum of Art, 401 Harrison St., Syracuse.

Free. 474-6064.

Cinderella. 12:30 p.m. The Magic Circle Chil-

dren’s Theatre presents an original, interactive version of the fairy tale. Children in the audience can dress as a fairy tale character, attend the ball and help with the action of the story. Spaghetti Warehouse, 689 N. Clinton St., Syracuse. $5.

449-3823.

24

Make Up Your Own Holiday Day. 2:30 p.m.

Create a holiday party hat and hear stories about celebrating every day of the year. For ages 5-12.

Hazard Branch Library, 1620 W. Genesee St., Syracuse. Free. 435-5326.

Syracuse Crunch. 7 p.m. Vs. Rochester Americans. See March 27 listing.

Sunday, March 29 See Ongoing Events

Monday, March 30

Series for Pregnant & New Mamas. 6-7

p.m.; Mondays through April 13. Pregnant women and mothers with new babies can take classes in yoga, baby food and breastfeeding. Willow Health and Wellness Center, 3090 Belgium Road, Baldwinsville. $60/series. Registration required: 491-3791.

Tuesday, March 31

thinkstock photos

Calendar

april Thursday, April 2

Storytime. 10:30 a.m.; also April 9, 16, 23 & 30.

A lively mix of stories, songs and rhymes allows children to develop skills necessary to be ready to read. Betts Branch Library, 4862 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Free. 435-1940.

Maker Club: Helicopters. 3:30-5 p.m. Kids

age 7 and up can make a simple helicopter out of paper, or a more complicated one from craft sticks, rubber bands and a plastic propeller. NOPL at Cicero, 8686 Knowledge Lane, Cicero. Free.

Registration required: 699-2032. nopl.org.

Yoga Storytime. 4:15-5 p.m.; also April 16. Kids ages 4-8 and parents can have a full-body experience that builds early literacy skills and healthy bodies at the same time. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free. Registration required: 637-6374. www.fflib.org.

Friday, April 3 PASSOVER BEGINS

See Ongoing Events

Wednesday, April 1

Read, Sing, Play Storytime. 10 a.m.; also April 8, 15, 22 & 29. Toddlers and preschool-aged children can hear stories and take part in more fun.

Paine Branch Library, 113 Nichols Ave., Syracuse.

Free. 435-5442.

Puppet Show. 2-4 p.m. Melanie Zimmer of Dancing Bear Puppet Theater performs “The Littlest Pirate.” NOPL at Brewerton, 5437 Library St., Brewerton. Free. Registration required: 6767484. nopl.org.

Teen Geeks. 6-8 p.m.; also April 22. Kids in

grades 7-12 can hang out, play games, eat snacks and create. Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool. Free. 457-0310. lpl.org.

Pajama Storytime. 6-6:30 p.m. Children ages

2-5, with a caregiver, can wear pajamas, bring a stuffed toy, and hear stories, songs and rhymes suitable for nighttime. Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool. Free. 457-0310. lpl.org.

Multiple Moms Mingle. 6:30 p.m. Monthly meeting of mothers and expectant mothers of multiples. Ruby Tuesday, 3220 Erie Blvd. E., DeWitt.

Reserve if you wish to attend: multiplemomsmingle@gmail.com.

Syracuse Crunch. 7 p.m. Vs. Binghamton Senators. See March 27 listing.

Tigris Shrine Circus. 10 a.m., 2:30 & 7 p.m.;

also April 4. See acrobats, clowns and more. The show lasts about two and a half hours, including a half-hour intermission. A benefit for Shriners Children’s Hospitals. Coliseum, State Fairgrounds, Geddes. $13-$15. 478-0277. www.TigrisShrine Circus.com.

Super-Natural Egg-Stravaganza. 1 p.m. Children up to age 10 can hunt for eggs with natural spots and camouflage colors, then stay to learn the amazing science of eggs. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. $4/ child; $4/vehicle. Registration required: 638-2519.

Saturday, April 4

Bunny Breakfast and Easter Egg Hunt. 8-11

a.m. Enjoy a breakfast buffet with the Easter Bunny. At 10 a.m., kids can find candy- and toy-filled eggs scattered on the golf course; bring your own basket. Green Lakes State Park, 7900 Green Lakes Road, Fayetteville. $10.99/breakfast, adult; $5.99/ breakfast, age 10 & younger. Registration required: 637-1111. Honesty.Rohrer@parks.ny.gov.

Family Times April 2015

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April 2015

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Open your heart Open your home

26

Family Times April 2015

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Calendar

Animal Egg-stravaganza. 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Animals receive egg and egg-shaped enrichment items to enjoy. Rosamond Gifford Zoo at Burnet Park, 1 Conservation Place, Syracuse. Admission: $8/adults; $5/senior citizens; $4/children; free/age 2 and younger. 435-8511.

Tigris Shrine Circus. 10 a.m., 2:30 & 7 p.m.

See April 3 listing.

Reading to Rover. 11 a.m.-noon; also May 2.

Kids ages 6-10 can read a story to a dog from Paws of CNY; five 10-minute sessions. Onondaga Free Library, 4840 W. Seneca Turnpike, Syracuse.

Free. Registration required: 492-1727.

Parent & Child Cooking Class. 11 a.m.-

noon. Learn to make healthy foods with your child. Willow Health and Wellness Center, 3090 Belgium Road, Baldwinsville. $35. Registration required: 491-3791.

Puppet Show. 11:30 a.m. Melanie Zimmer of The Dancing Bear Puppet Theater presents “Little Red Riding Hood”; for ages 3 and up. Onondaga Free Library, 4840 W. Seneca Turnpike, Syracuse. Free. Registration preferred: 492-1727.

New Movie: Grand Canyon Adventure.

Noon, 2, 4, 6 & 8 p.m. In this IMAX movie, filmmakers combine rafting on the Colorado River with the magnificence of the Grand Canyon to tell a story of how ordinary people can help save the world’s supply of drinking water. Bristol IMAX Omnitheater, Museum of Science and Technology (MOST), 500 S. Franklin St., Armory Square, Syracuse. $10/adults; $8/ages 2-11 or age 65 & up. 425-9068.

Beauty and the Beast. 12:30 p.m. The Magic

Circle Children’s Theatre presents an original, interactive version of the tale, in which children in the audience can dress as a fairy tale character and help Beauty teach the Beast to be kind and have good manners. Spaghetti Warehouse, 689 N. Clinton St., Syracuse. $5. 449-3823.

Sciencenter Showtime. 2 p.m.; Saturdays.

Every Saturday, see an interactive presentation on a different aspect of science. Upcoming topics include: DNA; the sound of science; the brain; and engineering design. Sciencenter, 601 First St., Ithaca. Admission: $8/adults; $7/seniors; $6/ ages 3-17; free/under 3. (607) 272-0600. www. sciencenter.org.

Sunday, April 5 EASTER

Moto-Inventions. 1-2 p.m.; Sundays in April.

Tinker with recycled materials and electricity to make whirling, moving machines. Sciencenter, 601 First St., Ithaca. Admission: $8/adults; $7/seniors; $6/ages 3-17; free/under 3. (607) 272-0600.

Animal Egg-stravaganza, April 4

Monday, April 6

correspond to the week’s story. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free. Registration required: 637-6374. www.fflib.org.

daily, through April 10. Special activities during school break week: Creature Talk, 10 a.m. & 1 p.m.; Exploring with a Naturalist, 10:30 a.m. & 1:30 p.m.; scavenger hunt and children’s crafts, 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. Admission: $4/vehicle.

638-2519.

Kite Making Workshop. 2 p.m. Young people can make their own kites. Betts Branch Library, 4862 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Free. 435-1940.

Spring Adventure Week. 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m.;

Toddler Storytime. 10:30 a.m.; also April 13 & 27. Children from infants to age 4, accompanied by caregivers, can enjoy a sensory storytime that includes a chance to play musical instruments and learn shapes and colors. Hazard Branch Library, 1620 W. Genesee St., Syracuse. Free. 435-5326.

Parent & Child Yoga. 11 a.m.; also April 8.

Caregivers and children (age 5 and up) will practice together with Heidi Panek of Asauna Yoga; participants should wear comfortable clothing and bring mats or beach towels. Onondaga Free Library, 4840 W. Seneca Turnpike, Syracuse. Free. Registration required: 492-1727.

Doctor Who Party. 2-4 p.m. Young people of all ages can dress up and celebrate the TV show Doctor Who by doing crafts, eating food and taking part in activities. DeWitt Community Library, Shoppingtown Mall (below food court), 3649 Erie Blvd. E., DeWitt. Free. Registration required: 446-3578.

School Break Week at Hazard Branch. 2:30 p.m.; also April 7-10. Every day kids can do a different hands-on activity, from building a balloon-powered race car to turning themselves into Minecraft characters by making a block mask. Hazard Branch Library, 1620 W. Genesee St., Syracuse. Free. 4355326.

Family STEAM Night. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Parents,

children and teens can explore hands-on activities related to science, technology, engineering and art.

NOPL at Cicero, 8686 Knowledge Lane, Cicero.

Free. Registration required: 699-2032. nopl.org.

Yoga for Everyone. 6-7 p.m.; also April 13, 20 & 27. Gentle yoga class. Betts Branch Library, 4862 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Free. 435-1940.

thinkstock photo

Tuesday, April 7 Chemsations. 2 p.m.; also April 19. High school

students demonstrate chemical reactions with color changes, bubbles and light. Sciencenter, 601 First St., Ithaca. Admission: $8/adults; $7/seniors; $6/ages 3-17; free/under 3. (607) 272-0600.

Fun with Science. 3-8 p.m. Kids in grades kindergarten through 6, and their families, can learn fun facts about fossils, rocks, minerals and more using hands-on science kits. Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool. Free. 457-0310. lpl.org.

Craftastic Critters. 4:30-5:30 p.m.; also April 14, 21 & 28. Kids ages 5-10 can drop in to make a different craft each week. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free. 637-6374.

Legos Family Fun Night. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Play with Legos at the library. NOPL at North Syracuse, 100 Trolley Barn Lane, North Syracuse. Free. Registration required: 458-6184. nopl.org.

Kids in Motion. 6:30 p.m. Preschoolers (ages 1-5) can take part in a video-guided activity that will get them moving, dancing and playing with maracas and other items. Onondaga Free Library, 4840 W. Seneca Turnpike, Syracuse. Free. Registration required: 492-1727.

Wednesday, April 8 Fairy Craft Party. Noon-1 p.m. Kids ages 5-12

can make magical crafts and then see the Disney movie Fairies of Pixie Hollow. Maxwell Memorial Library, 14 Genesee St., Camillus. Free. 672-3661.

Chopped for Tweens. 2-3:30 p.m. Children ages

8-12 will be divided into teams and will have 45 minutes to turn mystery ingredients into a delicious snack; kitchen utensils and a microwave will be used. NOPL at Cicero, 8686 Knowledge Lane, Cicero. Free. Registration required: 699-2032. nopl. org.

Parent & Child Yoga. 2 p.m. See April 6 listing.

Anime Night. 6-8 p.m. Teens can watch anime on the large screen, take part in drawing and trivia contests, and more. Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool. Free. 457-0310. lpl.org.

Storytime. 10 a.m.; also April 14, 21 & 28. Kids

Thursday, April 9

Signing Storytime. 10:30-11 a.m.; also April 21.

from preschool age to grade 6 with a caregiver can make seasonal crafts; all materials provided. Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool. Free.

457-0310. lpl.org.

ages 1-5 can enjoy books, songs, dance and fun.

White Branch Library, 763 Butternut St., Syracuse.

Free. 435-3519.

Children ages 3-6 can learn six to seven signs that

Drop in for Crafts. 9:30 a.m.-8 p.m. Children

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Calendar

Celebrate Reading. 2 p.m. Jim McCarthy puts on an interactive show about children’s stories and book characters; fun for all ages. Paine Branch Library, 113 Nichols Ave., Syracuse. Free. 435-5442.

Friday, April 10

Glow in the Dark Experiments. 10-10:30 a.m. (pre-k to kindergarten session); 2-2:45 p.m. (early school-aged student session). Discover what kinds of things glow in black lights, investigating paint and other substances. The experiments will take place in the basement, which is very dark.

Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free. 637-6374. www.fflib.org.

Teen Maker Party. 1-3 p.m. Kids in grades

6-12 can make projects using cereal boxes and art supplies. Maxwell Memorial Library, 14 Genesee St., Camillus. 672-3661.

Turtle Time. 2 p.m. Meet a live box turtle and

learn about turtles and their habitats from a Baltimore Woods Nature Center educator; for age 4 and up. Onondaga Free Library, 4840 W. Seneca Turnpike, Syracuse. Free. Registration required: 492-1727.

Candy Creation. 2-4 p.m. Kids age 9 and up

can explore two different kinds of candy making.

DeWitt Community Library, Shoppingtown Mall (below food court), 3649 Erie Blvd. E., DeWitt.

Free. Registration required: 446-3578.

Learn to Play Go. 2 p.m. Find out how to play

Go, a two-person board game that originated in China more than 2,500 years ago. Betts Branch Library, 4862 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Free. 435-1940.

Clifford Visits Storytime. 7 p.m. Kids can put on their pajamas and enjoy a storytime featuring Norman Bridwell’s big red dog, Clifford. Don’t

Sesame Street Live: Make a New Friend.

Author/Illustrator Storytime. 10 a.m. Author and illustrator Kimberly Archer reads from her book, Pedie Had a Friend. Barnes & Noble, 3454 Erie Blvd. E., DeWitt. Free. 449-2948.

Syracuse Crunch. 7 p.m. Vs. Bridgeport Sound Tigers. See March 27 listing.

Family Train Day. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. See trains on the permanent layout and running in loops on the floor. Plus, Thomas and Friends trains and a children’s play area. Presented by the Central New York Large-Scale Railway Society. The Commons, Driver’s Village, 5885 E. Circle Drive, Cicero.

Free. cnylsrs.net.

forget your camera! Barnes & Noble, 3454 Erie Blvd. E., DeWitt. Free. 449-2948.

7 p.m.; through April 12. Elmo, Grover, Abby Cadabby and their friends welcome Chamki, Grover’s friend from India, to Sesame Street in this musical show. Landmark Theatre, 362 S. Salina St., Syracuse. $15-$50. (800) 745-3000. www. ticketmaster.com.

Saturday, April 11 Family Times Summer Fun and Camp Fair 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Families can learn about

summer camps and programs as well as day-trip destinations. Kids can see live animals or jump in a bounce house. State Fairgrounds, Geddes. Free. 472-4669.

Superheroes Weekend. 11 a.m.-4 p.m.; also April 12. Meet superheroes and join a how-todraw session with comic book artists. Strong National Museum of Play, 1 Manhattan Square, Rochester. Admission: $13.50/general; free/younger than 2. (585) 263-2700.

Sesame Street Live: Make a New Friend.

11:30 a.m. & 3 p.m.; through April 12. See April 10 listing.

Beauty and the Beast. 12:30 p.m. See April 4

listing.

Artful Tales. 1 p.m. Children age 3 and up and Good Samaritan Run/Walk. 9:30 a.m. 5K

event raises money for local people who need affordable health care. Sprint for kids, 9:30 a.m. 5K run/walk, 10 a.m. Long Branch Park, Longbranch Road, Liverpool. $25-$30/registration. 378-5915. goodsamaritanrun@gmail.com.

Public Fishing. 9:30-11:30 a.m.; also April 18 &

25. Families and individuals can come for a morning of fishing; bait, rods and reels provided. Volunteers are on site to help beginners. (Fishing license not required.) Carpenter’s Brook Fish Hatchery, 1672 Route 321, Elbridge. $5/person. Registration required: 689-9367.

caregivers can hear a story that makes a connection between a picture book and art in the museum. Lower level, Everson Museum of Art, 401 Harrison St., Syracuse. Free. Registration required: 474-6064, Ext. 308, or kgriffiths@everson.org.

Sensory Friendly Time. 5:30-7:30 p.m. MOST staffers turn down the noise, turn off the flashing lights and shut off the air compressors so people with sensory issues can enjoy the museum. Museum of Science and Technology (MOST), 500 S. Franklin St., Armory Square, Syracuse. Cost: $5.

425-9068, Ext. 2143.

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Family Times April 2015

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Calendar

Syracuse Crunch. 7 p.m. Vs. Springfield Falcons. See March 27 listing.

Sunday, April 12

Sesame Street Live: Make a New Friend.

11:30 a.m. & 3 p.m. See April 10 listing.

Local Author Meet and Greet. 1-3 p.m.

Local authors of books for children, teens and adults will talk about their books, sell them and sign them. Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool. Free. 457-0310. lpl.org.

Superheroes Weekend. 1-4 p.m. See April

11 listing.

Lightapalooza. 2 p.m.; also April 26. High school

students demonstrate optical illusions, bending light and making sound waves visible. Sciencenter, 601 First St., Ithaca. Admission: $8/adults; $7/seniors; $6/ages 3-17; free/under 3. (607) 272-0600. www.sciencenter.org.

Monday, April 13

Preparing for Labor. 6-7:30 p.m. Members of the CNY Doula Connection help pregnant women prepare mentally for birth. Women’s Info Center, 601 Allen St., Syracuse. Free. Registration recommended: 395-3643. cnydoulaconnection. com/events-calendar.html.

Tuesday, April 14

Yoga Storytime. 10:30-11:15 a.m.; also April

28. Kids ages 3-6 and parents can have a full-body experience that builds early literacy skills and healthy bodies at the same time. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free. Registration required: 637-6374. www.fflib.org.

Sesame Street Live, April 10, 11 and 12

Lego Club. 4-5 p.m. School-aged kids can be inspired by some stories and then construct something from Legos. NOPL at Brewerton, 5437 Library St., Brewerton. Free. Registration required: 676-7484. nopl.org.

Teen MOPS. 4-6 p.m.; also April 28. Young mothers, ages 13-21, with children under 6 enjoy a faith-based program with fun, food and activities while their children are cared for by the childcare program. Liverpool First United Methodist Church, 604 Oswego St., Liverpool. Free. 5692542.

Human Library. 6-8 p.m. Patrons can reserve 20-minute slots to talk with people who have unique life experiences to share, including a retired police officer; the tinsmith who refurbished the Statue of Liberty; and others. Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool. Free. 457-0310. lpl.org.

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Come watch your local high school baseball team play in the 8th Annual Strike Out Lou Gehrig’s Disease Baseball Classic at NBT Bank Stadium

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Before

After

Before

Friday, April 24th:

East Syracuse-Minoa vs. Marcellus - 5:00 pm Syracuse East vs. West Genesee - 8:00 pm Saturday, April 25th: Onondaga vs. Weedsport - 11:00 am Bishop Grimes vs. Bishop Ludden - 2:00 pm Monday, April 27th: Skaneateles vs. Westhill - 5:00 pm Baldwinsville vs. Liverpool - 8:00 pm Tickets available at the gate: $5 donation/person, $15 donation/family

To become a sponsor

Jessica Luisi (585) 729-8150 or jmpluisi@gmail.com Facebook: /ALSBaseballClassic

After

Twitter: @ALSBaseballClsx

All proceeds benefit the local Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) Research and Treatment Center at Upstate University Hospital Family Times

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Calendar

Wednesday, April 15 Let’s Pretend. 1 p.m.; also April 22 & 29.

Children ages 3-5, accompanied by an adult, can learn about animals by acting out how they behave; a craft and outdoor activities are included. Each week a different animal: chickadee (April 15); ant (April 22); earthworm (April 29). Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. $5/child; $4/vehicle. 638-2519.

Thursday, April 16

Smart Play. 10:30 a.m.-noon. Children age 5 and under can explore a free-play environment that promotes discovery, creativity and the development of early literacy skills. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free. 6376374. www.fflib.org.

Terrific Thursdays. 11 a.m. In this session of the series for homeschooling families, kids in grades K-12 can learn how to play chess with Jason Young. DeWitt Community Library, Shoppingtown Mall (below food court), 3649 Erie Blvd. E., DeWitt. Free. Registration required: 446-3578.

Trail Tales. 1 p.m.; also April 30. A naturalist

reads stories to children ages 3-5 (accompanied by an adult), then leads the group on a hike whose theme matches the stories. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. $4/ vehicle. 638-2519.

Syracuse Chiefs Baseball Opening Day.

2:05 p.m. Cheer the hometown Minor League Baseball team as they face the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders on the grass field. Alliance Bank Stadium, 1 Tex Simone Drive, Syracuse. $5$12/adult; $4-10/age 12 & under, age 62 & older.

Parking: $5. 474-7833.

Technology Alliance of Central New York presents a talk about cryptography with Sarah Muccio, a mathematician. The talk is geared toward middle school students, who must be accompanied by an adult. Attendees can visit the exhibits after the presentation. Museum of Science and Technology (MOST), 500 S. Franklin St., Armory Square, Syracuse. Free. Register by email: jrcafe@tacny.org.

I Love Hazard Branch Library. 2:30 p.m.

People age 6 and up can have their picture taken with a favorite book and be part of the library’s photo collage on Facebook. Hazard Branch Library, 1620 W. Genesee St., Syracuse. Free.

435-5326.

Party for the Planet. 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Cele-

Cupcake Wars for Teens. 3 p.m. An Iron Chef-

brate Earth Day and learn about the zoo’s efforts to sustain biodiversity. Rosamond Gifford Zoo at Burnet Park, 1 Conservation Place, Syracuse. Admission: $8/adults; $5/senior citizens; $4/children; free/age 2 and younger. 435-8511.

Parents Night Out. 4:30-8:30 p.m. Drop off

listing.

themed program allows teens to try to decorate the ultimate cupcake. Betts Branch Library, 4862 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Free. 435-1940.

Beauty and the Beast. 12:30 p.m. See April 4

your child or children, ages 1-8, and staffers will feed and entertain them while parents have an evening out. KidzClub Indoor Play and Party Place, 219 Route 57, Phoenix. $10-$25/child. Registration required: 695-2211. www.kidzclubfun.com.

Syracuse Chiefs Baseball. 6:05 p.m. Vs. Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders. Fireworks follow this game. See April 16 listing.

Earth Day Celebration. 1-4 p.m. Make crafts, go on nature walks, watch live animal shows.

Baltimore Woods Nature Center, 4007 Bishop Hill Road, Marcellus. Free. 673-1350.

Mary Poppins. 1 & 7 p.m. See April 16 listing.

Syracuse Chiefs Baseball. 1:05 p.m. Vs. Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders. See April 16 listing.

April 16 listing.

Mary Poppins. 7 p.m.; through April 18. See

Syracuse Crunch. 7 p.m. Vs. Bridgeport Sound Tigers. See March 27 listing.

Syracuse Crunch. 7 p.m. Vs. Adirondack Flames. See March 27 listing.

Sunday, April 19

Star Party. 8-10 p.m. (Backup date: April 18.)

Get a look at spring skies and the planets Jupiter and Venus through telescopes. Baltimore Woods Nature Center, 4007 Bishop Hill Road, Marcellus. $8. Register: 673-1350.

CAZENOVIA, NEW YORK

Weekly Sessions July & August

Junior Café Scientifique. 9:30-11 a.m. The

Friday, April 17

Canterbury Stables

Pony Camp

Saturday, April 18

Mary Poppins. 7 p.m.; through April 18. A musical based on the stories of P.L. Travers and the Walt Disney film. Liverpool High School auditorium, 4338 Wetzel Road, Liverpool. $10. Tickets: 622-7986. www.liverpool.k12.ny.us.

English & Dressage Riding, Lessons, Boarding & Training

Tuesday - Thursday 9:00 1:00pm Individual daily riding instruction by our full-time professional trainers.

Different equestrian topics each week.

Earth Day Celebration. 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Earth day activities and crafts. Featured creature program, 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. Hike with a naturalist, 10:30 a.m. & 1:30 p.m. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. Admission: $4/vehicle. 638-2519.

SUMMER CAMPS

@ ONONDAGA College For Kids For kids ages 8 - 14 years

July 6 - 10, July 13 - 17 & July 20 - 24

Culinary Camp For high school students

July 20 - 24

STEM* Camp For high school students

July 27 - 31 *Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics

Only 6 students per class 315-440-2244 for a tour or information

4786 Roberts Rd. • canterburystablesny.com 30

Learn more about Onondaga Community College’s Summer Programs at:

SUNYOCC.EDU/CFK

Family Times April 2015

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Calendar

Four Directions Camp

As people get busier, they need more help with their everyday errands.

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Services provided 24 hours a day: Swimming Canoeing Hiking Storytelling Dreamcatchers Leatherworking Whittling Beadwork

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Neighborhood Store Delivery Fast Food/Diner Delivery Small Package Delivery Royal Errands Service will run those errands so you don’t have to!

Here to get you what you need when and where you need it! You name it.

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DESIGN ∙ BUILD ∙ MAINTAIN Creating Memories one backyard at a time!

(315) 682-8167 | www.mflc.biz | 6329 N. Kirkville Rd., Kirkville, NY Family Times

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Crafty Kids Club Open House. 6-7 p.m.

See April 25 listing.

Wednesday, April 29 See Ongoing Events

thinkstock photos

Calendar

Tuesday, April 28

Thursday, April 30 See Ongoing Events

ONGOING EVENTS

It’s Maple Syrup Time. Saturdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.; Sundays, 1-4 p.m.; through April 5. A visit to the demonstration sugarbush will introduce families to the heritage of sugaring and the production of maple syrup at six different stations.

Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. $4/vehicle. 638-2519.

Cupcake Wars for Teens, April 17

Syracuse Chiefs Baseball. 1:05 p.m. Vs. Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders. See April 16 listing.

Syracuse Chiefs Baseball. 1:05 p.m. Vs. Rochester Red Wings. See April 16 listing.

Cornell Raptor Program. 3 p.m. See and learn about eight live raptors, and find out how you can protect them. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. $5/person; $4/vehicle. Registration required: 638-2519.

Spring Peeper Prowl. 6:30 p.m. During an

Monday, April 20

evening walk, learn about these tiny treefrogs, listen for their whistle, and try to locate one. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. $2/person; $4/vehicle. Registration required: 638-2519.

Syracuse Chiefs Baseball. 6:35 p.m. Vs. Roches-

Friday, April 24

Tuesday, April 21

enjoy a friendly game of Bingo—with prizes! White Branch Library, 763 Butternut St., Syracuse. Free.

435-3519.

ter Red Wings. See April 16 listing.

Syracuse Chiefs Baseball. 1:05 p.m. Vs. Rochester Red Wings. See April 16 listing.

Tween Techtorials. 5 p.m. Kids ages 9-12 can

learn to make unique presentations using free websites to animate, program and design. Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool. Free. Registration required: 457-0310. lpl.org.

Wednesday, April 22 EARTH DAY

Bingo Day. 2 p.m. Children age 7 and up can

Saturday, April 25

Crafty Kids Club Open House. 10:30-11:30

a.m.; also April 28. Kids and parents can learn the financial and marketing skills to promote and sell their crafts and creations. Maxwell Memorial Library, 14 Genesee St., Camillus. 672-3661. www. craftykidsclub.org.

Earth Day Celebration. 10:30 a.m. Kids ages 6-12 and caregivers can help clean up the lawns around the library, then enjoy pizza and juice. Hazard Branch Library, 1620 W. Genesee St., Syracuse.

Free. 435-5326.

Discover the Digital Sandbox. 11 a.m.-4 p.m.; also April 26. Imagine, design and construct with activities inspired by online virtual communities such as Minecraft and Terraria. Strong National Museum of Play, 1 Manhattan Square, Rochester.

Admission: $13.50/general; free/younger than 2.

(585) 263-2700.

Beauty and the Beast. 12:30 p.m. See April 4

listing.

Wildflower Walks. 2-3 p.m.; also April 26.

Caretaker Audrey Loewer leads visitors through the center’s woodland wildflower garden. Baltimore Woods Nature Center, 4007 Bishop Hill Road, Marcellus. Donation. 673-1350.

Syracuse Chiefs Baseball. 1:05 p.m. Vs. Roches-

ter Red Wings. See April 16 listing.

Sunday, April 26

Thursday, April 23

April 25 listing.

Tinker Tots. 10:30-11 a.m. Children ages 2-6 will

have hands-on opportunities to learn, explore and invent. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free. 637-6374.

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Discover the Digital Sandbox. 1-4 p.m. See

Monday, April 27 See Ongoing Events

Pancake Breakfast. Saturdays, 9 a.m.-noon; through April 4. Pancakes, sausage, coffee or juice. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. $3-$5/breakfast; $4/ vehicle. 638-2519.

Weekend Walks With a Naturalist.

Saturdays and Sundays, 2 p.m. Nature discovery hike with different topics each weekend. Beaver Lake Nature Center, Route 370, Baldwinsville.

Admission: $4/vehicle. 638-2519.

Great Swamp Conservancy Nature Trails. Daily, dawn to dusk. Throughout the

year, visitors can grab their walking shoes and explore 4.5 miles of well-groomed, flat trails.

Trails feature a 900-foot boardwalk, osprey nesting platform, and wetland and grassland restoration areas. The area is a stop for many migratory waterfowl and songbirds; other wildlife include muskrats and beavers. Great Swamp Conservancy, 3.5 miles off I-90, Exit 34, 8375 N. Main St., Canastota. Free. 697-2950.

Baltimore Woods Nature Center. Hiking trails and parking are free and open every day from dawn to dusk. Interpretive Center open Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.4 p.m.; closed Sundays. Snowshoe rental: $5/day.

4007 Bishop Hill Road, Marcellus. 673-1350.

Wegmans Playground. Boundless Playground for children (and parents) of all ages and abilities includes accessible swings, slides, bridge and more, including special section just for the tiniest tykes. Onondaga Lake Park, Route 370, Liverpool. Free. 451-PARK. Barnes & Noble Storytimes. Thursdays,

10 a.m. Join a storytime for toddlers and preschoolers that’s features a book, songs and coloring. Barnes & Noble, 3454 Erie Blvd. E., DeWitt. Free. 449-2948.

Maxwell Library Storytimes. Storytimes

and book groups for all ages. Call for dates and times. Maxwell Memorial Library, 14 Genesee St., Camillus. Free. 672-3661.\

Northeast Community Center Library Storytimes. Preschool storytimes with

rhymes and occasional games; youngsters learn group listening and participation skills. Call for times. Northeast Community Center Library, 716 Hawley Ave., Syracuse. Free. 472-6343, Ext. 208.

Onondaga Free Library Storytimes.

Toddler storytimes (ages 2-3): Wednesdays & Thursdays, 10:15 a.m. Preschool storytimes (ages 3-5): Wednesdays & Thursdays, 11 a.m.

Also: Mother Goose Time, for children age 2

Family Times April 2015

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Family Times

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April 2015

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and under a chance to play while adults chat; Tuesdays, 11 a.m.; registration preferred. Onondaga Free Library, 4840 W. Seneca Turnpike, Syracuse.

Free. For storytimes, registration preferred for first-time attendees: 492-1727.

Petit Branch Library Storytimes. Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m. Toddler

and preschooler storytime for children ages 18 months-5 years and caregivers.

Includes stories, rhymes, finger plays

and songs. Petit Branch Library, 105 Victoria Place, Syracuse. 435-3636.

Regional Market Farmers’ Market. Saturdays, 7 a.m.-2 p.m. Shop

seasonal produce, meat, fish, poultry, eggs, specialty foods and more on display throughout covered sheds; heated shops of Regional Market Commons feature gift and unique items including jewelry, paintings and home decor.

Also, flea market, Sundays, 7 a.m.-3 p.m. 2100 Park St., Syracuse. 422-8647.

Calendar listings are free!

Send information about your family-friendly event to: Family Times calendar, 1415 W. Genesee St., Syracuse; Fax to 422-1721; or email to editorial@familytimes.biz.

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in April

walk for Autism Saturday, April 25, 2015 Longbranch Park 9 a.m. – registration 10 a.m. – walk starts

Include date and time of event, location with numbered street address and town, price, and phone number for publication.

We give priority to low- or no-cost events aimed at parents, kids, or parents accompanied by kids. For consideration, listings are due by April 3 for the May issue.

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Family Times April 2015

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“My child would never gamble.”

wanna

BET?

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CLASSIFIED DIRECTORY To advertise call 472-4669 and press 2.

May Issue Deadline: April 16, 2015

ACTIVITIES

My child would never gamble

wanna BET? Gambling might seem like

Gambling might harmless funseem at firstlike butharmless can become an obsession and fun at first but can become an can lead other risky obsession andtocan lead to other behaviors. More than risky behaviors. More than financial financial health is at risk. health is at risk.

EMPLOYMENT

Youth Group Leader

Samurai Action Class Focus, fitness and fun for ages 4-10!

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We are looking for a dynamic person to teach and live out the Bible with our 7-12 grade students. Our goal is to offer them exciting, Christ-honoring activities and opportunities. This position will require about 15 hours a week. You can find a job description and an application form at our web site: www.pompeychurch.org.

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movement. music. instruments. imagination.

We will explore the motions of our bodies with dance.

For children 8 mos.-5 yrs old.

Birthday parties available.

Call Tamar @ 446-2750 or www.toddlerstango.com

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Camillus & Manlius Classes for Age 1 & Up! Spring & Summer Class Schedules Coming Soon!

682-7877 or thedancestudiocny@gmail.com

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Joe Ball 436-9008 (Onondaga County only)

What’s in our Backpack Giveaway?

$40 Gift Certificate to

Surf City Family Fun Center 7380 Thompson Rd., North Syracuse To enter: Send all contact information to promotions@familytimes.biz with “Surf City” in the subject line. Entry deadline is noon on April 13th, 2015

Family Times April 2015

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