Family Times February 2019 by Family Times

FEBRUARY 2019

FREE

Make

Hear t!

A Valentine’s Day gift for friends CNY outings to cure kids’ cabin fever A daughter who doesn’t get Orange fever 100+ activities for families

Class of the

Month PAGE 14

Had a Stroke. Back on Stage.

Musician Todd Hobin KNOW THE SIGNS • CALL 911 IMMEDIATELY

Central New York music legend Todd Hobin knew nothing about stroke — but he does now. That’s why he’s raising awareness about stroke risk factors and its signs and symptoms.

FACE DROOPING

A. S.

ARM WEAKNESS

SPEECH DIFFICULTY

Fact: Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death and a leading cause of disability in the U.S. Important to know: Stroke can happen to both men and women — at any age. Good news: Stroke is preventable by managing medical risk factors and healthy lifestyle choices. What to do: Time lost is brain lost. So it’s vital to know the signs of a stroke — F.A.S.T. Four words to live by: Call 911 and say, “Take me to Crouse.“ When it comes to stroke, every moment matters. As one of just 10 hospitals in New York State to have earned Comprehensive Stroke Center status, and with the region’s newest ER and hybrid ORs, Crouse offers the most advanced technology for rapid stroke diagnosis and treatment

Read Todd’s story and learn more: crouse.org/toddhobin.

FAMILY TIMES FEBRUARY 2019

TIME TO CALL 911

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Rochester School for the Deaf Celebrating our 140th Year! 1545 St. Paul Street | Rochester, NY 14621 585-544-1240 • www.RSDeaf.org • email info@RSDeaf.org

FAMILY TIMES FEBRUARY 2019

BECAUSE I SAID SO

OUTINGS

CLASS OF THE MONTH

CREATE

315 BULLETIN

When your kid isn’t a sports fan.

CNY activities that get you and your children out and about.

St. Patrick’s School STEAM Club gets into coding, drones—and more.

Melted crayons become a heart-warming Valentine’s Day gift.

Big Brothers Big Sisters lacks mentors, and the JCC offers tutoring.

CONTENTS

FEBRUARY 2019

EDITOR’S NOTE

NE W!

315

BU L L E T I N PA GE 18

FAMILY TIMES FEBRUARY 2019

PARTY

LEARN

FAMILY FUN CALENDAR

Irish Hooley Holy Family Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

An evening of family-friendly food, fun & entertainment that supports the children of our school!

Saturday, March 2, 2019 4:00 - 9:30pm Adults $8 Seniors $6 Children $3 Family $20

*Raffles, Silent Auctions & Live Auctions

*Delicious Food & Refreshing Beverages -Including Wine & Beer

*Music & Irish Dancing Plus Fun Activities For The Kids

Tickets available in the school office or at the door. Questions? Call 315-487-8515

HOLY FAMILY SCHOOL

130 Chapel Dr., Syracuse, NY 13219 (315)487-8515 www.holyfamilyschoolsyr.org ALL PROCEEDS TO BENEFIT THE CHILDREN OF HOLY FAMILY SCHOOL FAMILY TIMES FEBRUARY 2019

FROM THE

THE PARENTING GUIDE OF CENTRAL NEW YORK

EDIT R

Though February is the shortest month, it can also be the toughest. Blame it on the weather: an abundance of snow (or freezing rain or graupel) and a lack of sunlight. We need to make our own light! What cheers you up? Valentine’s Day, on Feb. 14, is a holiday that spurs you to express affection for your favorite people. This month, you can make a colorful craft for your child to give to friends and family members (page 16). (They’ll love it.) Also this month, we give you plenty of ideas for getting out of the house and into bouncing emporiums, play spaces, swimming pools or gym centers (page 10). Nothing like play to get your heart pumping! Central New Yorkers care—deeply—about Syracuse University basketball. But what if you’re the only SU fan in your household? As Neil Davis can tell you, it’s not always easy being Orange (page 8). This month marks Family Times’ first Class of the Month section. We’re shining a light on the members of the St. Patrick’s School STEAM Club, who talk about the fun of learning on pages 14 and 15. If you want to nominate a group or club for Class of the Month, visit familytimescny.com and click on the banner. We hope you find plenty to lift your heart in this issue. If you ever have ideas for stories, please send them to me at rsullivan@familytimescny.com.

FEBRUARY 2019 | ISSUE NO. 202

GENIUSES AT WORK PUBLISHER/OWNER Bill Brod EDITOR IN CHIEF Reid Sullivan editorial@familytimes.biz MANAGING EDITOR Bill DeLapp PHOTOGRAPHY EDITOR Michael Davis CIRCULATION DIRECTOR Tom Tartaro (ext. 134) CREATIVE DIRECTOR Robin Barnes GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Rachel Barry Greg Minix Karley Harmon STAFF WRITER Kira Maddox CONTRIBUTORS Deborah Cavanagh, Tammy DiDomenico, Aaron Gifford, Eileen Gilligan, Molly Morgan, Tami Scott, Maggie Lamond Simone, Laura Livingston Snyder, Chris Xaver SALES MANAGER Tim Hudson (ext. 114) ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS Anne DeSantis (ext. 111) ADesantis@syracusenewtimes.com

REID SULLIVAN EDITOR IN CHIEF

Lesli Mitchell (ext. 140) LMitchell@syracusenewtimes.com SALES AND MARKETING COORDINATOR Megan McCarthy (ext. 115) MMcarthy@syracusenewtimes.com DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS Deana Vigliotti (ext. 118)

MICHAEL DAVIS PHOTO

Turn broken crayons into charming Valentine’s Day gifts! See page 16.

ADDRESS

1415 W. Genesee Street, Syracuse, NY 13204 (315) 472-4669 fax (315) 422-1721 familytimescny.com

Advertising deadline for April is March 16. Calendar deadline for April is March 3. Advertising deadline for March is Feb. 14. Calendar deadline for March is Feb. 8. Cover and Issue Design by Rachel Barry Cover Photo by iStock

6 6FAMILY TIMES FEBRUARY 2019

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Games We Play

My daughter and I don’t see eye to eye about sports | BY NEIL DAVIS JR.

pril 7, 2003: If you’re a Syracuse University sports fan, it’s a date engraved in your memory. That night, the SU men’s basketball team, led by Carmelo Anthony, completed their run through the Final Four in New Orleans, finally winning a National Championship. Hakim Warrick made the block, the final buzzer sounded, and the players piled onto one another at center court in victory. For a fan base that had seen its share of oh-so-close-defeats, the moment was glorious. I had been watching the game at home. As celebrations began across Central New York, I turned to look for someone—anyone!—with whom to rejoice. Next to me on the couch, I found only my daughter, Sadie. Thumb in mouth and sleeping soundly, she was unprepared to highfive anyone and unaware of the history being made. In her defense, she was 14 months old and perhaps exhausted from a day of toddling. But looking back, I wonder if I should have interpreted that moment as a sign of things to come. See, despite my best efforts, Sadie has never embraced the college 8

sports mania embedded in our local culture. She rarely even wears orange. With a girl as my only child, I always knew to adjust my expectations concerning things like Star Wars and Nerf weapons. I assumed that eventually I could persuade her to become an SU sports fan—just enough for us to be able to carry on a conversation. Now she’s 16, and we do have conversations about sports. In our own way.

She has inherited my love of dogs, photography and all things Disney. There’s no rule that a daughter has to share her father’s enthusiasms.

“Are you watching the football game?” I’ll ask, having called Sadie at her mother’s house. “Sure,” she replies. “It’s halftime of the seventh inning and they are down two goals.” We have perfected this routine over the years. I keep attempting to indoctrinate her into Orange Nation, and she responds with willful ignorance, just to emphasize the extent of her apathy. You would think I was asking her to make sense of Quidditch.

When she was born, I had actually been hoping for a girl. I was banking on the theory

RACHEL BARRY ILLUSTRATION

that girls are less messy than boys. I had forgotten how Play-Doh, colored markers and splashing in the dog’s water dish appeal equally to both genders. And so do sports! Gone are the societal stereotypes of the past. Although the television networks have yet to fully acknowledge the trend, American girls are participating increasingly in all sports, even ones traditionally considered to be for boys only, like hockey and lacrosse. Not my daughter, of course. She seems genuinely uninterested in shooting any puck or ball, and even less thrilled about watching a bunch of other people chase one around for a couple hours. Years ago, I took her to an SU football game. We sat in the nosebleed section, soaking up the chaotic atmosphere and cheering on the home team during one of their rare wins that season. It was a father-daughter bonding excursion to rival all others. In my mind, the game would be the first of many.

Faith & Values, Academic Excellence , Family & Community

This is the Immaculate Conception way

“Remember how fun that was?” I asked her recently. “I remember eating popcorn,” she said. “Oh, and I remember wanting to leave.” That outing has yet to be repeated. The Carrier Dome can apparently be a loud and intimidating place, not only for visiting teams but also for a 6-year-old girl who would have preferred a quiet afternoon of watching Blue’s Clues. My daughter is an athlete in her own right. For most of her life, she has been a dancer. On average, she puts in more than two hours of sweat each day, learning routines and perfecting her technique. During competition season, she performs on a stage instead of a field, experiencing the same camaraderie that comes with sharing wins, losses and matching uniforms. In between her numbers, she remains completely engrossed in what is happening onstage, almost as if she is searching for weaknesses in a 2-3 zone defense. As a parent, I sit and attempt to follow along, trying not to point out the serious lack of behind-the-back passes. It has been my decade-long goal to understand the subtleties of her dance world, but I find little crossover between it and basketball. “Did you notice that we changed the ending a little?” she asked me after a group tap performance. “There’s a double Maxi Ford just before the toe stand.” “Right,” I agreed. “But did you score enough points to get everyone free tacos?” The dialogue is suspiciously reminiscent of every sports conversation we’ve ever had, emphasizing how our passions don’t match. Of course, they don’t have to. She has inherited my love of dogs, photography and all things Disney. There’s no rule that a daughter has to share her father’s enthusiasms. These days, I try to keep Sadie’s perspective in mind. Pretending to be interested in sports might be tiresome for her. Luckily, I have two nephews who fill in as fans when needed. I attended a football game with them last fall, temporarily alleviating any pressure Sadie might feel to humor me. But now, with basketball season in full swing, it might be time to test the waters again. “March Madness is almost here,” I will say. “Do you think SU will make the tournament?” Sadie, always a good sport, will inevitably reply, “Go Yankees!” Neil Davis works at Bristol-Myers Squibb and lives in Liverpool with his daughter.

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Applications now being accepted. Call 315-637-3961 or go online to icschool.org, for more information and /or a personal tour. Immaculate Conception School holds the prestigious Middle States Accreditation

400 Salt Springs St., Fayetteville www.icschool.org FAMILY TIMES FEBRUARY 2019

Busting Out

Avoid cabin fever with CNY excursions | BY CHRISTY PERRY TUOHEY

uring Central New York winters, parents seem to know exactly when to head for a place where their children can release pent-up energy.

Jessica Purchiaroni, a mother of two, can see the moment coming. “When they are cooped up too long during the winter months, they get agitated with one another much more quickly. A lot of tattling and fussing usually means it’s time for a change of scenery.” Whether you need to find a trampoline or a toy library, there is a range of options in Onondaga County and the surrounding area—some pricey, some low-cost or free— where parents can take their little ones in inclement weather. When Purchiaroni’s daughters were small, she often took them to bounce houses for exercise. Now that Gia is 7 and Cora 4, they also make midwinter trips to the MOST (Museum of Science and Technology) and their local library. “Aside from the excitement of bringing home a few new books and movies,” she says, “my girls get excited to play with the toys that are there, too.” Onondaga County public libraries offer families many snowy-day options. Depending on where you live, you may find toy libraries, maker spaces, STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, mathematics) clubs and camps, or music and movement programs to keep your children engaged and entertained. Nina Brown sometimes takes her son and daughter to get exercise at mall or shopping center activity spaces. “We occasionally go to Billy Beez, SkyZone, Get Air or similar places so the kids can get their energy out.” While these spots are not cheap, they provide young ones with safe places for running, jumping, bouncing and climbing. If your children like to swim, you can purchase a day pass to Cascades continued on page 12

OUTINGS

Places to Go This is just a sampling of Central New York venues for kids. Times, dates and costs below may be subject to change, so we recommend you call the venues before heading out.

PRE-K

OPENINGS

Billy Beez. Destiny USA, 9090 Destiny USA Drive, Syracuse. (315) 741-5099. https://billybeezus.com/location/ destiny-usa/. This indoor play space offers slides, ball pits, and a section for infants and toddlers with soft flooring, soft play toys and mini-slides. Infants up to 11 months get in free with paid admission for a toddler or child; the entrance cost for one infant and one adult is $9.95. Admission for toddlers ages 1 to 3 years is $14.95 per visit. Children 4 to 17 years old pay $15.95. Package deals can be found on the website.

Cascades Indoor Waterpark at Greek Peak Mountain Resort. 2000 Route 392, Cortland. (866) 7647017. https://cascadesindoorwaterpark.com/.

Cascades Waterpark offers regular weekday and holiday peak pricing options. Children under 24 months old get in free. From there, pricing is according to height: $28 a day for children under 3 1/2-feet tall, and $35 a day for everyone else. Check the website for waterpark promotions and specials.

CNY Gym Centre Shoppingtown. 3649 Erie Blvd.

Full-day program, M-F Christian Environment Compatible with Onondaga County Tuition Subsidy 5-acre on-site nature center

Enroll Now Contact pjasecretary@gmail.com or 315-468-0117 412 S. Avery Ave., Syracuse | ParkviewJuniorAcademy.org

East, DeWitt. (315) 437-4535.

CNY Gym Centre Great Northern. 4155 Route

31, Clay. (315) 622-4600. cnygymcentre.com.

The Gym Centres offer gymnastics classes for children ages 6 months up to 5 years. The 2018-2019 academic session began in September and runs through June. There is a non-refundable $40 annual insurance/membership fee per student. $100 per family is due for each participant at registration.

Jewish Community Center of Syracuse.

5655 Thompson Road, DeWitt. (315) 445-2360. http://jccsyr. or/sf-family-gym.html. Parents and their children can participate in play activities during the weekly Family Gym at the JCC Sports & Fitness Center. Kids age 3 and up may play on an inflatable tumbling run, floor mats, obstacle courses and more. Family Gym is on Sundays from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The gym is free for JCC members; for non-members the cost is $5 per child, $10 for a family.

y r u b r e t n Ca tables S

Live 2 Bounce. 5885 East Circle Drive, second floor,

After School Enrichment Program: M-F 3-6pm REGISTER NOW!

iSTOCK PHOTOS

Cicero. (315) 299-8096. https://live2bounce.com/

Live 2 Bounce is an indoor inflatable family fun zone. Open hours change weekly so it’s wise to check their website or Facebook page to confirm before, as they put it, “bouncing in.” All adults and children must be wearing socks to participate. Hourly admission for mobile infants up to 12 months is $4 per hour; 13 months to 23 months pay $6 per hour; and children continued on page 12

• Safe Hands on with Horses • Fun Arts & Crafts • Horse Care Education • Transportation from Caz Schools • Time for Homework • Canterbury Trainers 315-440-2244 for Tours and Information 4786 Roberts Rd. canterburystablesny.com BOARDING • HUNTER, JUMPER & DRESSAGE LESSONS • SHOWS FAMILY TIMES FEBRUARY 2019

continued from page 10

continued from page 11

Indoor Waterpark at Greek Peak Mountain Resort in Cortland or take advantage of the free open swim hours at Syracuse’s Southwest Indoor Pool.

2 and older pay $8 an hour. All prices are plus tax. Live 2 Bounce is located inside the main building in Driver’s Village.

Sunnycrest Ice Rink, on Syracuse’s East Side, has open skate hours every weekday. Six dollars will cover your admission and ice skate rentals. Sunnycrest is a go-to winter spot for Syracuse mom Jessica Tarrats and her two children. She also keeps an eye out for Groupon bowling alley discounts for the family. Upstate children’s museums provide a variety of activities for young bodies and minds. An out-of-town day trip may take you to Rochester’s Strong Museum, Cooperstown’s Farmer’s Museum, Utica’s Children’s Museum, Ithaca’s Sciencenter or Binghamton’s Discovery Center of the Southern Tier. Here are a few more winter 2019 activity ideas to choose from: • Kids can wiggle and jiggle every Monday morning, 10:45 to 11:15 a.m., at Manlius Public Library’s JiggleBugs music and movement program for preschoolers. • There are weekly Winter Baby Gym, Parent and Tot, Kinderkids and Pre-Beginner gymnastics classes at CNY Gym Centres (see sidebar for contact information). • Admission to the Rosamond Gifford Zoo in Syracuse is halfprice throughout February. Many of the zoo’s spaces are indoors, but warmly dressed visitors can visit outdoor exhibits to catch sight of cold-loving animals such as the snow leopards, red wolves and penguins.

My Gym. 3218 Erie Blvd. E., DeWitt. (315) 449-4496.

mygym.com.

My Gym offers classes for infants as young as 1 month old and has a “Practice and Play” option for kids of all ages. The cost of tuition for a four-class cycle is $64, and a lifetime membership costs $75.

Sky Zone. 3179 Erie Blvd E., Syracuse. (315) 928-3737. https://www.skyzone.com/syracuse. Sky Zone offers a Toddler Time for $7.99 per hour. Five sessions are $34.99; 10 sessions, $49.99. For Syracuse Open Jump, all ages have access to the Main Court, Foam Zone and Sky Slam. The Main Court and Dodgeball games are separated by age and size. Open Jump prices are one hour, $13.99; 90 minutes, $17.99; two hours, $21.99.You will have to wear Sky Zone-brand socks to jump around; the socks cost $2.99 a pair.

Southwest Indoor Pool. 230 Lincoln Ave. at Clover Street, Syracuse. (315) 473-4330, Ext. 3002. http://www.syracuse.ny.us/PARKS/aquaticsSouthWest.html.

Whether you need to find a

This city-run indoor swimming pool is located behind the Southwest Community Center and is open to all ages. There is no admission charge during Open Swim times, which are offered daily from 2 or 2:30 p.m. until 4 p.m. Adult Swim hours are also free for ages 16 and older, and there are in-water bicycles and treadmills available. Check the website for other Open Swim days and times.

is a range of options in Onondaga

Sunnycrest Ice Rink. 698 Robinson St., Syracuse. (315) 473-4696. http://www.syracuse.ny.us/parks/ sunnycrestRink.html.

Christy Perry Tuohey is an author, journalist and freelance writer living in Syracuse.

trampoline or a toy library, there

County and the surrounding area.

Sunnycrest is owned and operated by the city of Syracuse and is located next to Henninger High School on the city’s East Side. The rink is open Nov. 1 through March 31. Admission is $3; age 12 and under and age 55 and older are charged $2. Skate rental costs $3. Open skate hours are available every day of the week. There is a lunch special offered on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays, which covers admission, skate rental and hot chocolate for $4. Skating is free on Wednesdays, but skate rental is charged. See the website for full schedules and special programs.

Yoga for Kids has a schedule of Winter 2019 Classes for younger children, ages 2 through 6, called Teeny Yogini, which are usually on the first Saturday of each month. Cost for Teeny Yogini is $15 for one adult and one child, or $20 per family. Namaste Kids classes are for ages 4 to 7, and Grounded Kids includes children ages 8 to 14. Locations include: Willow Health & Wellness, Baldwinsville, and May Memorial Unitarian Church, Syracuse. Cost for each eight-week session is $100. For more information, e-mail Julie Daniel at jdanielyoga@gmail.com.

OUTINGS

iSTOCK PHOTO

Yoga for Kids of Central New York. Locations in Baldwinsville, Liverpool, North Syracuse and Syracuse. (315) 622-3423. http://yogaforkidsofcny.com/.

DOES YOUR CHILD HAVE

EXCITING NEWS! March 1st — the Child Health Care Associates’ Liverpool office is moving.

DELAYED

VISION SKILLS?

We’ll be just one block down the road to Clay Medical Center, 2nd floor. It’s a brand new office with all the best updates that children and adults will love!

Offering vision therapy to help to correct your child’s visual deficits that may be contributing to reading or other academic disorders.

We’ll have the same weekend and evening hours as we have now, but a beautiful new look! The brand new elevator opens right in front of our office doors!

Weiss, Savedoff & Ciccone Doctors of Optometry, PC

Excellence in professional vision care services | Quality ophthalmic materials

Two Convenient Locations:

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WWW.EYE-CARE1.COM

FAMILY TIMES FEBRUARY 2019

Class OF THE Month

Congratulations, STEAM CLUB

St. Patrick’s School, Oneida

“ ” I have learned more about teamwork and how to be creative.

“

My favorite STEAM Club project was flying the drones because it’s super fun. —J.J. SHENDOCK, GRADE 6

Olivia Healt practices math facts and block coding using a Bee Bot.

”

At St. Patrick’s School in Oneida, members of the STEAM Club are discovering how fun it can be to learn about science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics. The students in the afterschool club are in grades 3 through 6. Their advisers, Melissa Marris and Erin Thompson, have designed projects that demand thought, collaboration and problem solving. Among the club’s activities have been: coding; robotics (using Ozobots and Dash and Dots); and 3D art activities that demonstrate the role of mathematics in art. In an especially popular session of the club, students learned how to control the school’s drones, devised tasks and obstacles for the drones, and competed in drone races. St. Patrick’s School is a Catholic preschool and elementary school serving children from age 3 up to sixth grade, from Oneida and Madison counties.

DO YOU WANT TO NOMINATE A CLASS OF THE MONTH? Visit familytimescny.com and click the Class of the Month banner. 14

NUTRITIONAL CLASS OF THE MONTH CONTENT

MICHAEL DAVIS PHOTOS

—CATHERINE LOHR, GRADE 6

“

My favorite STEAM Club project so far is programming Dash and Dot. I have learned many things from STEAM Club and will learn much more. I’ve learned to program, make tools from paper, tin foil, Q-Tips, and can’t wait to learn more.

Jude Jbarah uses a Makey Makey kit to create a touch pad.

—KADE MEYERS, GRADE 5

”

Kade Meyers, J.J. Shendock and Ryan Kosuda design and build a bridge using only straws, tape and yarn.

Members of STEAM Club: (back row) Layn Kraeger, Charles Martin, Olivia Healt, Kade Meyers, J.J. Shendock, Nick Martin, Catherine Lohr; (third row) Leah Mazor, Luna Marris, Margaret Lohr, Avrey Baker, Haylee Klish; (second row) Jude Jbarah, Josh Holmes, Connor Bowe, Charles Stoker; (front row) Kaitlyn Finster, Patrick Dahlem. FAMILY FAMILYTIMES TIMES FEBRUARY FEBRUARY2019 2019

Heartwarming CREATION

Turn melted crayons into Valentine’s Day presents

BY NATALIE DAVIS

Looking for a fun alternative to candy to contribute to your child’s classroom Valentine’s Day celebration? Melted crayon hearts are a simple way to create a personalized message of affection and friendship. They’re beautiful, fun to color with—and they use up all the broken crayons lying around the house!

MATERIALS • Silicone Baking Molds in Heart Shapes: Available at Michaels or on Amazon • Crayons: I have a huge bucket of crayons collected over the course of three children. Any wax crayon will do. (Some of my crayons had glitter in them, which added a nice effect.) • Baking Sheet • Two Large Bowls, Buckets or Bins 16

CREATE

STEPS

Start peeling! I find this process rather therapeutic and don’t mind sitting in front of the TV, mindlessly peeling crayon labels. Or you can soak the crayons in warm water to soften the labels. Once you have the label off, break the crayon into three or four pieces.

When you have a good number of crayons, transfer them to the silicone baking molds. You can make multicolored hearts or keep them all in a single color family.

Place your filled heart molds on a baking sheet and put the sheet in a 350-degree oven for 15 minutes. Check them before you pull them out to ensure all the crayon pieces are melted.

Weekday Mornings 5:30 -10AM

4 5 6

Let cool. The crayons should cool for at least an hour to allow the wax to set. (Speed up the cooling by putting the molds in the freezer.) Once the hearts are cool to the touch, pop them out of the silicone mold. Your valentines are ready! You can either put them in a valentines-themed gift bag or attach them to a note printed on card stock.

Natalie Davis is an artist and educator teaching enrichment in the Syracuse City School District. She lives with her family in Jordan.

PARTY PLANNER

NY Children Continue to C Lack Adult Mentors

oughly 130 Onondaga County children linger on a waiting list to be matched with an adult mentor through PEACE Inc. Big Brothers Big Sisters, said John Bruzdzinski, director. The problem is not new—nor is it limited to Syracuse. Nationwide, the number of children on waiting lists for a Big Brother or Big Sister far exceeds the volunteers available. According to Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, across the country 30,000 children—known as “littles”—await matches with mentors, or “bigs.” The organization, founded in 1904, last year adopted a new brand to emphasize the importance of finding mentors of all generations. “The need in our communities for young people to have a role model is more urgent than ever, and we must evolve as an organization to meet that need,” said Pam Iorio, Big Brothers Big Sisters of America president and CEO in a statement. The local affiliate of BBBS, which is sponsored by PEACE Inc., a nonprofit organization, runs three mentoring programs. One is located in a workplace, BNY Mellon, with 10 kids, and one is a school-based program working with area high schools and colleges, with 70 children participating. The one for which Big Brothers Big Sisters is best known, the community-based program, currently serves 53 kids, ages 5 to 12. In that program, adult bigs connect with their littles for a minimum of eight hours a month. They might go for walks, visit playgrounds, shop for groceries and talk on the phone. Sometimes they attend sporting events, such as watching free Syracuse University lacrosse or soccer games, or picking up tickets to see a baseball game. Bruzdzinski and his coworkers have

stepped up their recruiting efforts in order to match more adults with the growing list of children. Staffers have spoken to groups, done many presentations and marketed the program extensively. “The total number of kids that come from disadvantaged circumstances is increasing all the time,” he said in a phone interview. All the children in the community-based mentoring program live in Onondaga County, but big brothers or sisters can be from nearby communities. Most of the children on the list are male, and most of the mentors are female. People seeking a big sibling for their child typically say “I want a mentor,” without specifying a man or woman. Mentors can be married or single, though most are single. Some even have children of their own but make time to mentor other children as well. Activities do not have to cost the mentors money, though often a big will buy a snack. “We don’t expect them to spend one cent on their little,” Bruzdzinski said. The little siblings don’t require pricey outings. “The little’s looking at it like that ‘someone’s taking care of me, someone’s talking to me.’” Mentors receive training to prepare them for the experience. They’re provided with suggestions for things to do with their littles. And they’re given guidance on how to respond if family conflict or other dilemmas come up during their time with their little.

Bruzdzinski continues to come up with new ways to connect with potential mentors. The organization spent hours at the 2018 New York State Fair, received lots of positive responses, and signed up a list of more than 150 people interested in learning more about mentorship. That list ultimately led to a mere 10 volunteers—a small yield for so much time spent talking to fair visitors. Bruzdzinski and his team believe that mentors can make a big difference in the lives of children. Research they cite indicates that children with mentors are less likely to succumb to peer pressure or use drugs or alcohol, and they’re more likely to attend college. So the team at Big Brothers Big Sisters perseveres in efforts to match children with adult volunteers.

g out becomin formation ab zinski at For more in ll John Bruzd a mentor, ca 69, Ext. 308. (315) 470-33

JCC Offers Free Tutoring Children in kindergarten through grade 2 and grades 5 and 6 who struggle with reading can get free tutoring starting Feb. 4. The program will take place at the Jewish Community Center of Syracuse, which has received a grant from the Michelle Schotz Foundation for the purpose. Tutors will be paired with individual students and meet on Mondays and Wednesdays, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. A small-group writer’s workshop for 18

students in the same grades will take place Mondays and Wednesdays, 5:30 to 6 p.m. Tutors are certified teachers finishing their master’s degrees in literacy at SUNY Oswego. The program will run through early May and is expected to resume in the fall. The program is available to children in the JCC’s after school program and eligible young people in the community. Space in the program is limited.

315 BULLETIN

Interested parents sho uld contact Patricia Ranieri, JCC director of children’ s programming at (315) 445-2040, Ext. 123, or pranieri@ jccsyr.org.

—REID SULLIVAN

• Hiking • Biking • Swimming • Archery • Kayaking • Building race cars • Sledding • Community service

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February Please note: Mistakes happen. To confirm event details, call the sponsoring organization’s phone number or visit the website.

FRIDAY, FEB. 1 Free to Be. 10:30-11:15 a.m. Children from ages 3 to 6 can take part in this early childhood music and acting class with live guitar music, creating unique lyrics. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free. (315) 637-6374. fflib.org.

SATURDAY, FEB. 2 Take Your Child to the Library Day. 10

a.m.-5 p.m. Make a bookmark and explore what the library has to offer. Face painting (11 a.m.-noon); registration requested. Onondaga Free Library, 4840 W. Seneca Turnpike, Syracuse. (315) 492-1727. oflibrary.org.

Preschool Information Fair. 10:30 a.m.-noon.

Representatives from local preschools will provide information about their programs to families. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free. (315) 637-6374.

Music with Donna B. 10:30 a.m.

Donna Butterfield leads an interactive music program for children age 2 and up. Rhythm instruments, puppets and storybooks are part of the fun. Community Library of DeWitt and Jamesville, 5110 Jamesville Road, Jamesville. Free. CLDandJ.org. (315) 446-3578.

Paws to Read. 10:30-11:30 a.m.; also Feb. 9, 16

& 23. Kids can read to a friendly dog from Paws Inc. of CNY. Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool. Free. (315) 457-0310. lpl.org.

Rice Creek Ramble. 11 a.m.; also Feb. 9 & 16.

People of all ages (kids under 17 must be accom-

CALENDAR

panied by an adult) can go on an informative, family-friendly walk. Rice Creek Field Station, 193 Thompson Road, 1 mile south of SUNY Oswego’s main campus, Oswego. Call to check trail conditions the morning of the hike: (315) 312-6677. oswego.edu/ricecreek.

Pups ‘n Pages. 11 a.m.-noon.;

also Feb. 16. All ages can read to or just hang out with one of the volunteer dogs. NOPL Cicero, 8686 Knowledge Lane, Cicero. Free. (315) 699-2032.

Beauty and the Beast.

12:30 p.m. In the Magic Circle Children’s Theatre presentation, children in the audience help teach the Beast kindness and good manners. Audience members are encouraged to dress up as a fairy tale character and become part of the royal court. Spaghetti Warehouse, 689 N. Clinton St., Syracuse. $6. Reservations recommended: (315) 449-3823.

Meet the Masters Art Class. 1-2 p.m.; also

Feb. 9 & 16. Children in K-6 learn about master painters, copy a masterpiece, and explore color theory. NOPL Brewerton, 5440 Bennett St., Brewerton. $10/session. (315) 676-7484.

Cupid’s Book Folding. 2 p.m. Young people

ages 12-18 can turn old books into art by folding their pages into a heart-shaped sculptures. Hazard Branch Library, 1620 W. Genesee St., Syracuse. Free. (315) 435-5326.

Mad Scientists. 2 p.m. Children in K-5 can take part in science activities presented by members of SciExcite, a nonprofit organization run by high school students. Community Library of DeWitt and Jamesville, 5110 Jamesville Road, Jamesville. Free. Registration required: CLDandJ.org. (315) 446-3578. Sciencenter Showtime. 2 p.m.; Saturdays. In

upcoming sessions of this weekly interactive series, topics will include: chemistry, dogs, engineering,

and flight. Sciencenter, 601 First St., Ithaca. Admission: $8/ages 2-64; $7/seniors, age 65-plus; free/under 2. (607) 272-0600. sciencenter.org.

Groundhog Day. 2:30 p.m. See the 1993 movie Groundhog Day (rated PG), starring Bill Murray and Andie MacDowell. It’s recommended for age 11 and up. Betts Branch Library, 4862 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Free. (315) 435-1940.

Snowshoes, Stars and Stories. 7-9 p.m. People age 7 and up can take a hike through the woods to a cabin and a fire, drink hot cocoa, and hear stories. Snowshoes provided. Baltimore Woods Nature Center, 4007 Bishop Hill Road, Marcellus. $9. Register: baltimorewoods.org. (315) 673-1350.

SUNDAY, FEB. 3 Sunday Funday. 2-4 p.m.; Sundays, through April 14. All ages of visitors can explore the galleries, see art making, hear stories, and play games. Everson Museum of Art, 401 Harrison St., Syracuse. $8/ general admission; free/under 12. (315) 474-6064. everson.org.

Chemsations. 2 p.m.; also Feb. 17. Local 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. sciencenter.org.

MONDAY, FEB. 4 Gaming for Adults with Special Needs. 1:30-3 p.m. Adults with special needs can play Wii games and board games; caregivers must remain in the room. Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool. Free. (315) 457-0310. lpl.org.

Yoga for Everyone. 6 p.m., Mondays. Take a one-hour yoga class. Betts Branch Library, 4862 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Free. (315) 435-1940. Crafting for a Cause. 6:30 p.m. All ages of participants can make bracelets the library will sell to raise money for the CNY Diaper Bank. Onondaga Free Library, 4840 W. Seneca Turnpike, Syracuse. Registration requested: oflibrary.org. (315) 4921727.

TUESDAY, FEB. 5

Syracuse Auto Expo. 4-9 p.m.; through Feb. 10. Hundreds of vehicles in two buildings. On Feb. 10, Family Fun Day includes a magic act (noon-4 p.m.), face painting (12:30-4 p.m.), and $20 for family four-pack admission. Oncenter, 800 S. State St., Syracuse. $9/adults; $7/senior citizens; $/ages 6-12; free/age 5 & under. autoexposyracuse.com. Saturday, Feb. 9

SATURDAY, FEB. 9 Button Valentines. 2:30-3:30 p.m. Kids age 11

SUNDAY, FEB. 10 Winter Fair. Noon-8 p.m. See Feb. 8 listing. Syracuse Auto Expo. Noon-5 p.m. See Feb. 7 listing.

Montessori Open House. 2-4 p.m. Find out about the school that serves ages 3 through 12 with its preschool and elementary education based on Montessori philosophy and methods. Montessori School of Syracuse, 155 Waldorf Parkway, DeWitt. (315) 449-9033. mssyr.org.

CHINESE NEW YEAR Year of the Pig

and up can design a valentine and turn it into a button; supplies provided. Betts Branch Library, 4862 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Free. (315) 435-1940.

MONDAY, FEB. 11

Valentine’s Day Cards. 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Teens

Winter Fair. 3-11 p.m.; through Feb. 10. Food,

Learn about medical interventions and how to have a better chance at a natural, gentle birth in a hospital setting. Presented by CNY Doula Connection. CNY Healing Arts, 195 Intrepid Lane, Syracuse. Free. Registration recommended: (315) 707-8097.

and adults can use the card-making supplies to make a unique craft. Central Library, MakerSpace (Level 1), 447 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Free. (315) 435-1900.

First Steps. 9:30-10 a.m.; also Feb. 12, 19 & 26.

Children who are good walkers, up to age 3, can with a caregiver take part in a program with music, movement, crafts and more. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free. (315) 637-6374.

Baby Storytime. 10:30-11 a.m.; also Feb. 12,

19 & 26. Babies, up to age 2, and caregivers can share rhymes, songs, stories and signs in this language-building program. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free. (315) 637-6374.

Teen Tuesday. 4-5:30 p.m. Young people in

grades 6-12 can take part in a different program each week. This week’s session has a Chinese New Year’s theme, with tying lucky knots and making paper lanterns. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free. (315) 637-6374.

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 6 Wiggleworms. 10:15 a.m.; also

Feb. 13, 20 & 27. Toddlers and preschoolers can play with props and musical instruments. Onondaga Free Library, 4840 W. Seneca Turnpike, Syracuse. Registration required: oflibrary.org. (315) 492-1727.

Read, Sing, Play Storytime. 10:30-11 a.m.

Children of all ages, accompanied by caregivers, can enjoy this storytime. Central Library, KidSpace (Level 2), 447 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Free. (315) 435-1900.

Trading Card Game Day. 2:30-4:30 p.m. Pros from TCGplayer will play and teach a variety of trading-card games. Betts Branch Library, 4862 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Free. (315) 435-1940.

exhibits, a kids zone, amusements, music and more. Expo Center, State Fairgrounds, Geddes. $6/adults; $4/age 60 & older; $4/ages 13-17; free/age 12 & under. nyswinterfair.com.

Syracuse Auto Expo. 4-9 p.m.; through Feb. 10. See Feb. 7 listing.

SATURDAY, FEB. 9 Cupid’s Chase. 8 a.m. (regis-

tration); 10 a.m. (run). Take part in 5K run or 3K walk to benefit Community Options, an organization that supports people with disabilities. Walkers, runners, joggers, people in wheelchairs, and baby strollers are welcome. Onondaga Lake Park, Onondaga Lake Parkway, Liverpool. $20$40. (315) 431-9859.

Book and Bake Sale. 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. (Doors

closed 1:15-1:30 p.m.) Baked goods, and used books, DVDs, audiobooks, puzzles, CDs and more will be for sale. Northern Onondaga Public Library at Cicero, 8686 Knowledge Lane, Cicero. Free admission/9:30 a.m.-1:15 p.m.; $2 bag/sale 1:30-3 p.m., with bags sold at event. (315) 699-2032. nopl.org.

Winter Fair. 10 a.m.-11 p.m.; through Feb. 10. See

Feb. 8 listing.

Syracuse Auto Expo. Noon-9 p.m.; through Feb. 10. See Feb. 7 listing.

Saturday Story Morning.

10-11 a.m. Children from 1 ½ to 6, with families or caregivers, can enjoy stories, rhymes, finger plays and songs. Betts Branch Library, 4862 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Free. (315) 435-1940.

Paws and Books. 10:30 a.m.;

also Feb. 23. Children ages 5-12 can read a story to Cooper, a certified Canine Good Citizen, then they can make a dog-related craft. Hazard Branch Library, 1620 W. Genesee St., Syracuse. Free. (315) 435-5326.

Teen Anime Night. 6-8 p.m. Teens can come

and talk about anime. Cosplay is okay, but library staff must approve. Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool. Free. (315) 457-0310. lpl.org.

THURSDAY, FEB. 7 Trading Card Games. 2:30-4:30 p.m. Staffers

Beauty and the Beast. 12:30 p.m. See Feb. 2

listing.

from TCGplayer staffers teach and play Yu-Gi-Oh, Pokemon and Magic: The Gathering with participants ages 12-18. Central Library, Community Room (Level 1), 447 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Free. (315) 435-1900.

DIY Scarves. 2:30 p.m. Kids ages 5-12 can make their own fleece scarves. Hazard Branch Library, 1620 W. Genesee St., Syracuse. Free. (315) 4355326.

Math Tutoring. 3-4 p.m., Wednesdays. Teens and adults can bring in questions or examples of the typie of math problems with which they need help. Central Library, MakerSpace (Level 1), 447 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Free. (315) 435-1900.

International Food Festival. 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Low-Intervention Birth Tips. 6-7:30 p.m.

TUESDAY, FEB. 12 Homeschool Creative Writing Club. 1:30-3 p.m. Students in grades 7-12 can discuss and work on fiction and poetry. Bring a notebook or laptop. Maxwell Memorial Library, 14 W. Genesee St., Camillus. Free. maxwellmemoriallibrary.org. (315) 672-3661.

Teen MOPS. 5-7 p.m.; also Feb. 26. 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. (315) 569-2542. Winter Craft Drop In. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Make a

snowflake craft, a penguin craft and more. NOPL North Syracuse, 100 Trolley Barn Lane, North Syracuse. Free. (315) 458-6184.

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 13 Rice Krispie Treat Valentines. 2:30-3:30 p.m. Kids age 11 and up can make heart-shaped treats. Betts Branch Library, 4862 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Free. (315) 435-1940. Teen Tabletop Games at Dunkin’. 6-8 p.m.

Teens can play board games and eat snacks in the Dunkin’ Donuts community room. Presented by Liverpool Public Library. Dunkin’ Donuts, 105 Second St., Liverpool. Free. (315) 457-0310. http:// www.lpl.org.

THURSDAY, FEB. 14 VALENTINE’S DAY Moonlight Skiing and Snowshoeing. Until 9 p.m.; through Feb. 17. Venture onto Beaver Lake’s 10 miles of trails (if the snow cover is adequate) lit by the moon. Hot chocolate and other refreshments available at the visitor center. Bring a flashlight and a friend for safety. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. $5/ hour for snowshoe rental; Admission: $4/vehicle, paid as you exit. (315) 638-2519.

Sample food from over 20 cultures. Parkview Junior Academy, 412 S. Avery Ave., Syracuse. Admission: $5/person; $3/ages 4-12; free/age 3 & under. (315) 468 (315)468-0117. parkviewjunioracademy.org.

FAMILY TIMES FEBRUARY 2019

FRIDAY, FEB. 15

MONDAY, FEB. 18

Toddler Dance Party. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Children ages 18 months-5 years can come play musical instruments, enjoy bubbles, and dance their sillies out. Community Library of DeWitt and Jamesville, 5110 Jamesville Road, Jamesville. Free. (315) 4463578. CLDandJ.org.

PRESIDENTS’ DAY

Bird Feeders. 2:30 p.m. Young people ages 5-12 can make bird feeders to take home and hang in the yard. Hazard Branch Library, 1620 W. Genesee St., Syracuse. Free. (315) 435-5326. I Spy Crafts. 2:30-4 p.m. Kids ages 6-11 can

create I Spy books and I Spy games of their own. Salina Library, 100 Belmont St., Mattydale. Free. Registration required: (315) 454-4524.

Stories with Donna B. 10:30 a.m. Donna But-

terfield leads the group in singing, dancing, stories and more. Onondaga Free Library, 4840 W. Seneca Turnpike, Syracuse. Registration requested: (315) 492-1727. oflibrary.org.

Manga Mania Book Club. 4 p.m. Young people

ages 12-18 will read and discuss manga and have snacks. Hazard Branch Library, 1620 W. Genesee St., Syracuse. Free. (315) 435-5326.

Guided Moonlight Snowshoe Hike. 7 p.m.;

also Feb. 16. Explore the woodlands and frozen marshes on snowshoes with a guide; space limited. Program is only offered when conditions are acceptable. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. $5/snowshoe rental; $4/vehicle. Registration required day of hike: (315) 638-2519.

SATURDAY, FEB. 16 Young Boater Safety Certification Course. 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Boaters ages 10-17 must take the course and pass the same-day exam in order to legally operate a motorboat or personal watercraft alone. Presented by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. State Fairgrounds, 581 State Fair Blvd., Syracuse. Free. Registration required by Feb. 13: (315) 312-3042. slm22@cornell.edu.

Beauty and the Beast. 12:30 p.m. See Feb. 2

listing.

Stop-Motion Videos. 2 p.m. Young people ages 12-18 can use an iPad to make stop-motion videos; snacks provided. Hazard Branch Library, 1620 W. Genesee St., Syracuse. Free. (315) 435-5326.

Winter Owl Prowl. 8-10 p.m. Participants age

10 and up can walk through the woods in search of owls. Baltimore Woods Nature Center, 4007 Bishop Hill Road, Marcellus. $9. Register: baltimorewoods.org. (315) 673-1350.

See Ongoing Events

COUNTRY CHILDCARE KIDS CENTER Open Enrollment

Pre-School: ALL Ages 3-5yrs AGES Before & After School: 3yrs-6th Jordan United Methodist Church 63 Elbridge Street, Jordan 315-689-9686 • jeckatjumc@gmail.com

Unicorns and Dragons Party. 2 p.m. Those

daily through Feb. 22. Various special break-week activities, including a chance to try snowshoeing (weather permitting, Feb. 18 & 20 at 10 a.m.), build a snow cave (Feb. 21, 10 a.m.), learn about winter animals (daily, 1:30 p.m.); and more. All activities are weather dependent. Indoor activities will take place if there isn’t enough snow for outdoor ones. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. $4/vehicle. $5/hour snowshoe rental. (315) 638-2519.

Teddy Bear Clinic. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Children of all ages can bring a stuffed animal for a checkup. Veterinarians will give the stuffed animal a checkup and offer first aid if necessary. Rosamond Gifford Zoo at Burnet Park, 1 Conservation Place, Syracuse. Admission: $4/adults; $2.50/seniors; $2/ages 3-18; free/age 2 & younger. (315) 435-8511. Cocoa, Crafts and Storytime. 10:15-11 a.m. Enjoy stories, crafts and free hot cocoa in the Dunkin’ community room. Presented by Liverpool Public Library. Dunkin’ Donuts, 105 Second St., Liverpool. Free. (315) 457-0310. http://www.lpl.org. Create a Video Game. 2:30 p.m. Kids ages 6-12 can create a video game, including characters and settings, using Bloxels. Community Library of DeWitt and Jamesville, 5110 Jamesville Road, Jamesville. Free. Registration required: CLDandJ.org. (315) 446-3578.

TUESDAY, FEB. 19 Spa Products for Tweens & Teens. 2 p.m. Young people ages 8-16 can make spa products to take home. Community Library of DeWitt and Jamesville, 5110 Jamesville Road, Jamesville. Free. Registration required: CLDandJ.org. (315) 446-3578.

SUNDAY, FEB. 17 Jordan Elbridge

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 20 Winter Wonders Week. 10 a.m.-3 p.m.;

ages 2-12 can play games, make crafts and eat magical treats at this event. Community Library of DeWitt and Jamesville, 5110 Jamesville Road, Jamesville. Free. Registration required: CLDandJ. org. (315) 446-3578.

BubbleMania. 2-3 p.m. School-aged children

will enjoy this performance by bubble artist Doug Rougeux. NOPL Brewerton, 5440 Bennett St., Brewerton. Free. (315) 676-7484.

Table Top Games. 2:30-4 p.m. Young people age 18 and under can play board games with friends. Betts Branch Library, 4862 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Free. (315) 435-1940. Snowflake Bentley. 2:30 p.m. See the snowflake photos of Wilson “Snowflake” Bentley and make snowflake-collecting apparatuses; for ages 5-12. Hazard Branch Library, 1620 W. Genesee St., Syracuse. Free.(315) 435-5326.

Pete the Cat Party. 2:30-3:30 p.m. Children

ages 3-8 can enjoy stories and activities based on the Pete the Cat books. Salina Library, 100 Belmont St., Mattydale. Free. Registration required: (315) 454-4524.

Teen Video Game Night. 6-8 p.m. Teens can play games on the big HD screen and the smaller screen. Snacks will be served. Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool. Free. (315) 457-0310. lpl.org.

THURSDAY, FEB. 21 Green Screen Fun. 2 p.m. Kids ages 8-16 can

use a green screen and tablets to make a movie. Community Library of DeWitt and Jamesville, 5110 Jamesville Road, Jamesville. Free. Registration required: CLDandJ.org. (315) 446-3578.

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Kitchen STEAM. 2-4 p.m. Students in kindergarten and up can learn the science behind yeast, gluten and emulsions while making bread dough and butter. Northern Onondaga Public Library at Cicero, 8686 Knowledge Lane, Cicero. Free. Registration required: (315) 699-2032. nopl.org. Winter Wonderland. 2:30 p.m. Kids ages 5-12 can engage in indoor activities like indoor ice skating and making snow dough. Hazard Branch Library, 1620 W. Genesee St., Syracuse. Free. (315) 435-5326.

Xbox in the Evening. 5 p.m. Young people ages

12-18 can game on the Xbox One; snacks and drinks provided. Hazard Branch Library, 1620 W. Genesee St., Syracuse. Free. (315) 435-5326.

Winter Retreat Puzzle Room. 6-7 p.m. Students in grades 6-12 can solve a murder mystery. Salina Library, 100 Belmont St., Mattydale. Free. Registration required: (315) 454-4524.

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FRIDAY, FEB. 22 Time for Tots Playgroup. 9:30-10:45 a.m. Education playgroup for children

ages 18 months-5 years and their caregiver. Stories, songs, arts and crafts, and more. Cross of Christ Lutheran Church, 8131 Soule Road, Liverpool. $3/family. Registration recommended: (315) 622-2843. NYCrossofChrist.org/Tots.

Cartooning Workshop. 2 p.m. Children age 6 and up can take part in an interactive session with artist J.P. Crangle. Community Library of DeWitt and Jamesville, 5110 Jamesville Road, Jamesville. Free. Registration required: CLDandJ.org. (315) 446-3578.

Game On. 2:30 p.m. Kids, teens and families can play board games, card games and Xbox One games; snacks and beverages provided. Hazard Branch Library, 1620 W. Genesee St., Syracuse. Free. (315) 435-5326.

SATURDAY, FEB. 23

cnytix.com

A service

315-422-7011 • info@cnytix.com

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A Melodic Life. 10:30 a.m. Kids and parents can enjoy a Symphoria perfor-

w Times

mance traces the life of Bob, a lighthearted melody, from childhood to middle age. The orchestra’s Instrument Discovery Zone opens at 10 a.m., before all Kids’ series performances. Costumes are encouraged for this concert. Inspiration Hall, 709 James St., Syracuse. $15/adults; $10/senior citizens; free/age 18 and under. (315) 299-5598. ExperienceSymphoria.org.

Pokemon Open Play. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Kids ages 8-12 of all interest and expe-

rience levels can bring cards (or use provided decks) to play with experts from TCGPlayer. Community Library of DeWitt and Jamesville, 5110 Jamesville Road, Jamesville. Free. CLDandJ.org. (315) 446-3578.

Rice Creek Story Hour. 11 a.m. Elementary-age children ages (kids must

be accompanied by a caregiver) can hear tales of nature and animals’ wild ways. Rice Creek Field Station, 193 Thompson Road, 1 mile south of SUNY Oswego’s main campus, Oswego. (315) 312-6677. oswego.edu/ricecreek.

Be the Scientist. Noon-4 p.m. Explore the activities of an anthropologist. Museum of Science and Technology (MOST). 500 S. Franklin St., Armory Square, Syracuse. Museum admission: $12/adults; $10/seniors and ages 2-11. (315) 425-9068.

Pregnant? We walk with you through the journey Free Pregnancy Tests Referrals for Free Ultrasounds Options Counseling Abortion Recovery Counseling

free $20 game play

with purchase of $20 game play

DESTINY USA • 315.401.3700 Promotional. EXPIRES: 8/31/2019. Present this coupon at Front Desk to redeem. Limit one coupon per customer. Barcode valid for one use only. Minor policies vary by location – please check www.daveandbusters.com/locations for details. Not valid with any other oﬀers, including Eat & Play or Eat, Play, Win Combos, Half Price Games Wednesdays or any Half Price Game promotion. Not valid with Special Events Packages. Coupon must be surrendered at time of redemption and may not be photocopied or duplicated. Once game play is loaded to Power Card®, the game play does not expire. Non-negotiable. Power Card activation fee is $2. ($3 Times Square). NOT FOR RESALE.

ALL SERVICES ARE CONFIDENTIAL

3519 JAMES STREET, SYRACUSE • (315) 437-8300 • newhopefamilyservices.com

FAMILY TIMES FEBRUARY 2019

Beauty and the Beast. 12:30 p.m. See Feb. 2 listing.

Slime Party. 2:30 p.m. Children can make base slime and add in materials to make it unique. Betts Branch Library, 4862 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Free. (315) 435-1940.

SUNDAY, FEB. 24

Model Train Show. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Operating train layouts and displays, the whole Thomas the Train gang, and dealers selling train items. Presented by the Syracuse Model Railroad Club. Eastwood American Legion Post 1276, James Street and Nichols Avenue, Syracuse. $4/adult; $2/age 12 and under; $12/family max. (315) 706-7580. syracusemodelrr.org.

MONDAY, FEB. 25 Black Panther. 2:45 p.m. See the PG-13 movie starring Chadwick Boseman as the superhero and king of Wakanda. Betts Branch Library, 4862 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Free. (315) 435-1940. Harlem Wizards. 7-9 p.m. The visiting basketball showmen play a team of Skaneateles community members in a benefit for the Skaneateles Elementary PTC. Skaneateles High School, 49 E. Elizabeth St., Skaneateles. $17-$30/adult admission; $12/ students (door). harlemwizards.com.

TUESDAY, FEB. 26

ONGOING EVENTS Horsedrawn Sleigh (or Hay) Rides. Saturdays & Sundays, 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m.; through Feb. 24. Also Feb. 18. A 20-minute ride into the woods. Highland Forest Park, County Road 128, Fabius. $6/adults; $3/age 5 & under. (315) 683-5550.

Peanut Butter Jelly Time. Thursdays, 5 p.m.

Members of the community can join in making more than a hundred bagged lunches to hand out to the hungry and homeless in downtown Syracuse. The Road, 4845 W. Seneca Turnpike, Syracuse. Free. (315) 218-6066. wholelygroundsattheroad. org.

CNY Scholastic Art Awards. 9 a.m.-7 p.m., weekdays; 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturdays & Sundays; through March 1. See over 1,000 award-winning artworks by CNY junior and senior high school students. Whitney Applied Technology Center, Onondaga Community College, 4585 W. Seneca Turnpike, Syracuse. Free. artandwriting.org. days and Sundays, 2 p.m. Nature discovery hike with different topics each weekend. Beaver Lake Nature Center, Route 370, Baldwinsville. Admission: $4/vehicle. (315) 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. (315) 697-2950.

Baltimore Woods Nature Center. Hiking

Homeschool Chess Club. 1:30-3:30 p.m. Homeschoolers and families can learn to play chess or match strategies. Maxwell Memorial Library, 14 W. Genesee St., Camillus. Free. maxwellmemoriallibrary.org. (315) 672-3661. Harriet Tubman Storytime. 6:30-7 p.m. Read

Barnes & Noble Storytimes. Thursdays, 10

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 27 Onondaga Community College Q & A. 2-4 p.m. Teens and adults can talk to an OCC representative about applying to college, financial aid, and other issues. Central Library, Level 1, 447 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Free. (315) 435-1900.

Chip Taste Test. 2:30 p.m. Kids under 18 can try different flavors of chips and see if they can figure out the flavor. Betts Branch Library, 4862 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Free. (315) 435-1940.

THURSDAY, FEB. 28 Family Craft Time. 6 p.m. Adults accompanied by a child can make simple washi tape bookmarks. Hazard Branch Library, 1620 W. Genesee St., Syracuse. Free. Registration required: (315) 435-5326. Family Game Night. 6 p.m. Families with children of all ages can play board games and enjoy refreshments. Salina Library, 100 Belmont St., Mattydale. Free. (315) 454-4524.

CALENDAR

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. (315) 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. (315) 422-8647.

Weekend Walks With a Naturalist. Satur-

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. (315) 6731350.

about Harriet Tubman and make a craft. NOPL North Syracuse, 100 Trolley Barn Lane, North Syracuse. Free. (315) 458-6184.

11 a.m.-noon. NOPL Cicero, 8686 Knowledge Lane, Cicero. Free. (315) 699-2032.OPL North Syracuse Library Storytimes. Birth-age 3: Wednesdays, 10-11 a.m. Ages 3-5: Thursdays, 11 a.m.-noon. NOPL North Syracuse, 100 Trolley Barn Lane, North Syracuse. Free. (315) 458-6184.

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. (315) 449-2948.

Community Library of DeWitt and Jamesville Storytimes. Call or visit the website for times. Community Library of DeWitt and Jamesville, 5110 Jamesville Road, Jamesville. Free. Registration recommended: CLDandJ.org. (315) 446-3578.

Maxwell Library Storytimes. Storytimes and

book groups for all ages. Call for dates and times. Maxwell Memorial Library, 14 Genesee St., Camillus. Free. (315) 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. (315) 472-6343, Ext. 208.

NOPL Brewerton Storytimes. Ages 3 months-24 months: Mondays, 9:30-10 a.m. Age 2 and up: Mondays, 10:30-11:30 a.m. NOPL Brewerton, 5440 Bennett St., Brewerton. (315) 676-7484. NOPL Cicero Library Storytimes. Toddler Story Hour: Tuesdays & Wednesdays, 10-11 a.m. Preschool Story Hour: Tuesdays & Wednesdays,

ATTRACTIONS Corning Museum of Glass. 1 Corning Glass Center, Corning. Daily 9 a.m.-5 p.m. $18/adults; free/age 17 and under. (800) 732-6845. Ongoing: You Design It, We Make It: Glassblowers choose from among designs submitted by young visitors and create that work on the spot. Erie Canal Museum. 318 Erie Blvd. E., Syracuse. Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; closed holidays. Free. (315) 471-0593. Interactive exhibit: Work the Weighlock. The Stonecutters: Exhibit reveals the fascinating world of the stonecutters and quarrymen who built the 83 locks and 18 aqueducts along the 363-mile Erie Canal.

Everson Museum of Art. 401 Harrison St.,

Syracuse. Tuesday-Friday, Sunday, noon- 5p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $8. (315) 474-6064. World-class museum includes Children’s Interactive Gallery designed to acquaint beginning art viewers with basic art principles, with areas dedicated to portraiture, hands-on activities, and a classroom.

Museum of Science and Technology (MOST). 500 S. Franklin St., Armory Square, Syracuse. Wednesdays-Sundays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Open until 8 p.m. on Thursdays. Museum admission: $12/ adults; $10/seniors and ages 2-11. IMAX admission only: $10/adults; $8/senior citizens and ages 2-11. (315) 425-9068. most.org. Planetarium (only available with museum admission): $2. (315) 425-9068.

Onondaga Historical Association Museum.

321 Montgomery St., Syracuse. Wednesday-Friday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Saturday & Sunday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Donation. (315) 428-1864. Syracuse’s only comprehensive local history museum, with exhibits on architecture, local industries, transportation and more.

Rosamond Gifford Zoo at Burnet Park. 1 Conservation

Place, Syracuse. Daily, 10 a.m.4:30 p.m. Half-price admission in February: $4/adults; $2.50/ senior citizens; $2/children; free/ age 2 and younger. (315) 435-8511. Ongoing attractions include Humboldt penguins.

Sciencenter. 601 First St., Ithaca. Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, noon-5 p.m. Admission: $8/general admission, ages 2-64; $7/seniors; free/ under 2. (607) 272-0600. sciencenter.org. Inspires people of all ages to discover the excitement of science through exhibits and programs.

ADVERTISERS INDEX 93Q..........................................................................................31 Bluebird Music Together.....................................................21 Boy Scouts of America .......................................................25 Canterbury Stables............................................................. 5,8 CNY Tix..................................................................................27 Crouse Hospital .....................................................................2 Edge Federal Credit Union...................................................7 Elevation Contemporary Dance.......................................29 Everson Museum .................................................................. 11 Faith Heritage School..........................................................21 Family Life Network .............................................................7 Fidelis Care ...........................................................................19 Flamingo Bowl.....................................................................7,20 Fun Jump.................................................................................20 Hematology/Oncology Associates .................................. 11

SAVE THE DATE

SATURDAY, APRIL 27

10am – 2pm

NYS FAIRGROUNDS CENTER OF PROGRESS BUILDING G A N N O U NUCR NINOF

J&B Seamless Gutter Co. Inc. ...........................................10

TH E R ET

R MONSTES K TRUC

Jewish Community Center.......................................... 21, 22 Joan Condlin’s Liverpool School of Dance ....................31 Joe Ball’s Home Improvement ..........................................20 Jordan Elbridge Country Kids ...........................................22 Landmark Theater ...............................................................20 Mike Carter’s Cartoon Island............................................20 Mystical Acres........................................................................22 New Testament Baptist Church ......................................31 North Syracuse Central Schools Early Education ��22 Pathfinder Bank .................................................................... 11 Pediatric Associates..............................................................10 Sciencenter.............................................................................21 Seabreeze Amusement Park ...............................................5 Spinnaker Custom Products .............................................30 St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Preschool ..................................21 St. Vincent De Paul Day Care Center ............................20 Sterling Renaissance Festival ...............................................5 Street Painting Festival .......................................................27 The Dance Studio CNY......................................................22 Upstate Medical University...............................Back Cover Weiss, Savedoff & Ciccone...................................................8

MAIN ATTRACTIONS Monster Trucks Music and Dance Performances Kid affiliated vendors Summer Camp/Activity Booths Face Painting & Food Vendors FREE & FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY To sponsor this event or register a booth, contact us at (315) 422-7011 FAMILY TIMES FEBRUARY 2019

SURGICAL WEIGHT LOSS OPTIONS

LEARN MORE

The challenges from having obesity are complex. As the longest established bariatric program in Central New York, Upstate is committed to helping you make a change for your better health. Our team has a proven track record of providing both compassionate support and successful outcomes. If you are considering bariatric (weight loss) surgery, come learn more from our experts. Free information sessions are held at Upstate University Hospitalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Community Campus, 4900 Broad Road in Syracuse. (Formerly Community General Hospital). Free parking is available in the hospital parking garage.

TO REGISTER FOR A FREE UPCOMING INFORMATION SESSION, PLEASE VISIT WWW.UPSTATE.EDU/BARIATRICS OR CALL (315) 492-5036. Taewan Kim, MD, FACS; Flavia Soto, MD, FACS, FASMBS, ABOM diplomate; and Jesse Gutnick, MD

ASK FOR THE EXPERTS. ASK FOR UPSTATE. WWW.UPSTATE.EDU/BARIATRICS