Family Times May 2023

WATCH WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT!

WATCH WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT!

WATCH WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT!

EDITOR’S NOTE

In the last 11 issues of Family Times, we selected one article (or few) from our archive to honor our 20th anniversary (you can view all of them here – or read our recap on page 9). We covered topics ranging from back-to-school routines (September 2006) to allowances (April 2004) to a recipe for Tex Mex casserole (January 2015), going as far back as our first baby issue in 2003.

But, as they say, all good things must eventually come to an end – this issue is our last with anniversary content. Thank you for celebrating with us!

Keeping with the theme of celebrations, Katy Clark lists 25 places where you can host your child’s next birthday party (page 20), and Kimberly Blaker shares some activities and gifts for Mother’s Day (page 22).

This month, we are also introducing a new feature, Explore CNY, which will highlight some of the family-friendly activities in area towns. Learn more (and see who we highlighted first) on page 24

We hope you enjoy this issue!

Did you know May is National Barbecue

Month? Family Times readers share their favorite food to have at a barbecue on page 10 (mine is macaroni salad).

Advertising deadline for June is May 15. Calendar deadline for June is May 3.

Design by Renate Wood Cover Photo by iStock

20th ANNIVERSARY

THE PARENTING GUIDE OF CENTRAL NEW YORK

MAY 2023 | ISSUE NO. 251

GENIUSES AT WORK

PUBLISHER/OWNER

William Brod

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Courtney Kless CourtneyK@familytimescny.com

CONTENT DIRECTOR

Steve Guglielmo

CREATIVE SERVICES MANAGER

Robin Barnes

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Renate Wood

CONTRIBUTORS

Kimberly Blaker, Kim, Bruni, Katy M. Clark, Janelle Davis, John Whitford

SALES MANAGER

Tim Hudson (ext. 201)

ADVERTISING CONSULTANT

Lesli Mitchell (ext. 204) LMitchell@familytimescny.com

ADDRESS 9 Albany St., Suite 2e Cazenovia, NY 13035 (315) 422-7011 fax (315) 422-1721

familytimescny.com

Check

Courtney Kless EDITOR IN CHIEF

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That’s why our diverse team of highly regarded OB/GYN physicians, nurses, midwives and doulas delivers more babies than any other hospital in Central New York.

Along with 24-hour in-house OB and anesthesia coverage, Crouse offers the most comprehensive resources and services to make your birth experience special — from an array of pre-birth classes, lactation support and integrative therapies, to personalized post-delivery care for both mom and baby.

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When

Family Times is 20! To celebrate, we will pick one article from our archive each month including this one, which appeared in the May 2005 issue.

Crash Course

Help your child brush up on study skills for final exams

BY TERRI SKEELE

The end of the school year elicits mixed emotions from students and teachers. While everyone looks forward to summer break, a major hurdle must first be cleared.

Of course, this hurdle involves parents, too. Who else is hounding the kids to study, study, study?

You’ve done it throughout the year for unit exams, quizzes, and midterms, but the final is the biggie. In many courses, a final exam is worth as much as a marking-period grade.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 8

So, how can you help? First, keep in mind that entire courses are taught on study skills, and yet a large number of students have never actually been taught how to study. Many schools or subject areas have moved to alternative assessments such as portfolios and projects, but it is safe to say all students, at one point or another, will have to take an exam in a testing situation. While your teenager may certainly balk at the idea of you “helping” him study, done correctly, the benefits will outweigh the protests.

Location: While it may seem like a good idea to put your eighth-grader at the kitchen table so you can keep an eye on his progress, the noise and distraction may be a major hindrance. Many kids need quiet and minimal distractions to do their best. One study strategy is to make the study area similar to the test-taking location. Have your student sit at a hard surface, such as a table or desk with good lighting, minimal distractions and comfortable heat. (Although the week of Regents exams tends to bring sweltering temperatures, but that’s another story.) Keep younger siblings away, and keep noise to a minimum. Allowing your son to lie on his bed, or in front of the TV, to study is probably not wise.

Length: More is not always better. If your daughter is planning a major study session the Sunday before her exam, be sure to encourage her to take frequent breaks. About 45 minutes of straight studying is great, but then a 10-to 15-minute break is due. Make your daughter a snack; send her outside; let her call a friend, anything that truly takes her away from her studies. She will return rejuvenated and better able to retain information.

Preview: Before your son really starts studying, be sure he knows what he should be studying. Is it a cumulative exam or just the last few units? What is the format: essay, multiple choice or short answer? Has the teacher identified specific areas that will be on the test? What are the major headings in the textbook and/or notes? Have him go over these with you, and encourage him to speak to his teacher if he is unsure.

Practice and review: Once your daughter knows what to study, have her teach you. One of the best ways for students to retain what they know is by teaching others. She will remember much more of the content by explaining it to you than she will just by reading it over. Come up with possible test questions. Many students retain information better by writing it down, so perhaps paraphrasing or summarizing her notes or textbook will help.

The night before: This may sound obvious, but send your son to bed at a reasonable hour. He may feel the need to stay up late to cram as much as possible, but a good night’s sleep is a much better idea. Also, send him off to the test with food in his belly. Not only will a talkative stomach be embarrassing in a quiet testing situation, but it will also be quite distracting for him.

Clip These Tips for Kids Once you’re at the test:

• Preview the entire test to see what is there. Pay attention to format and length. Immediately write down things you’re afraid of forgetting, such as formulas, dates and names.

• Answer the easy questions first, and skip those you don’t know. As you go through the exam, you may find answers to some of the questions you didn’t know, or a word may trigger your memory.

• Keep an eye on time and point values. Don’t spend 15 minutes on a two-point question.

• Read the directions. Look out for details such as questions with more than one correct answer, true and false questions that must be fixed, or the need to answer in complete sentences.

• Underline key words such as “describe,” “explain,” or “list.”

• Review your test and make sure you’ve answered all of the questions.

• Next, look over your answers but go with your gut if you’re not sure of an answer.

What is your favorite food to have at a barbecue?

“My own BBQ chicken marinade I call ‘church chicken’ because it reminds me of the chicken church BBQs would grill up when I was a kid.”

— KENNY, BINGHAMTON

“Salads – macaroni, pasta, potato, fruit, tossed.”

— KATIE, AUBURN

QUESTION OF THE MONTH

ANSWER TO WIN THE JUNE GIVEAWAY

QUESTION OF THE MONTH

“Burgers!”

— DANIELLE, NORTH SYRACUSE

“BBQ chicken, green beans and baked beans.”

— PAULA, NEWARK VALLEY

“Chicken!!”

— GREG, NORTH SYRACUSE

QUESTION OF THE MONTH

“Either pulled pork or spiedies.”

— ALEXIS, GENOA

“Grilled salmon on the plank!”

— MADDIE, BINGHAMTON

“Chicken BBQ.”

— CONNIE, FULTON

QUESTION OF THE MONTH

ISTOCK PHOTO

Ben Borenstein, Education Coordinator at Redhouse Arts Center

BY JANELLE DAVIS

1. You are the education coordinator for Redhouse Arts Center. Can you tell us more about it?

Redhouse Arts Center is a non-profit organization located in downtown Syracuse that offers yearly mainstage theater productions for local audiences and a plethora of educational programming in-house and off-site at several Syracuse City School District schools as well as other non-profit organizations, in a nutshell. We strive to bring professional quality theater performances and arts education programs to the local community. Redhouse is known for its two pillars of strength: the artistic department and the education department. Both contribute equally to the success of Redhouse and what we are able to provide year after year.

2. What is your role as education coordinator?

I am very fortunate to work at Redhouse because I get to wear many hats and utilize many of my skills as an educator and administrator. As education department coordinator, I oversee all of our in-house and off-site programs. For 2023, this includes our eight in-house camps, six off-site camps, and the work we do with Syracuse Parks and Rec and Arc of Onondaga every

year. We currently provide after-school enrichment at ELMS and Lincoln Middle School, where I am also the director and music director of their school musical. We are also at Porter Elementary School through the 21st Century grant. Twice a month, we go to Lyncourt School to teach a wide range of arts-related classes. We also provide a morning program at Van Duyn Elementary School. Last year, we did work with the Dunbar Organization and the Hillside Family of Agencies. This year, we have added programs at BASCOL and within the Fayetteville-Manlius School District. I ensure everything runs smoothly, finding the best instructors for each program and ensuring their success while they teach, and sometimes stepping in to teach a class myself – which I love!

3. Tell us about your education department production in partnership with Arc of Onondaga.

Every year, we do a production in collaboration with Arc of Onondaga, in which we cast professional actors alongside members of Arc of Onondaga to highlight inclusive and accessible theater for all. The relationships made between Arc participants and our actors are so endearing, heart-warming, and a one-of-a-kind experience. I start-

ed music directing for this production last spring and am honored to return this year. It was one of the best and most rewarding experiences of my life. 2023 is our 10th anniversary with Arc of Onondaga, and we are very excited to celebrate with them. In the past, we have done productions such as Now.Here.This, The Secret Garden, The Snow Queen, and Once Upon a Mattress, just to name a few! This year, we added a fall program designed for the youth from Arc of Onondaga, which was very successful. We cannot wait to bring it back this coming fall.

4. What are the upcoming events at Redhouse Arts Center?

For our mainstage productions, we have The Bridges of Madison County coming up in May, and A Midsummer Night’s Dream, our production with Arc, in June! (Turn to page 14 to learn more.) We have many school performances happening as well: James and The Giant Peach, Jr. at Porter Elementary School in May and The Wiz at Lincoln Middle School in June. We then move right into summer workshops and camps for 10 weeks!

Janelle Davis is a freelance writer living in Fairmount with her family.

Treat Yourself

BY COURTNEY KLESS

Are you in need of a night out?

Treat yourself to a show – or two – at Redhouse Arts Center.

“One of the things that is particularly uplifting about coming to see any Redhouse show is that it is a positive experience that not only celebrates art, but celebrates community,” said Education Director Marguerite Mitchell. “One of the things that Redhouse really does no matter what piece they’re presenting, whether it be a modern piece, whether it be a classic piece, whether it be something that is seemingly going to be high art (like Shakespeare), is that we always put a spin on it.”

Redhouse’s roots can be traced back to September of 1978, when the Contemporary Theatre of Syracuse was formed. That organization eventually shut down, and after interest from the public, it was re-founded and named Redhouse Arts Center in 2006.

For the last decade, its artistic and education departments have partnered with Arc of Onondaga to produce an annual show. On June 10 and 17, they will present A Midsummer Night’s Dream, a Shakespearean comedy about a young couple trying to run away and the fairies who play a practical

joke on them (this is the third work by the famous playwright and poet that Artistic Director Temar Underwood has adapted –the others were Othello and Macbeth).

“We’re just really looking forward to having a show, particularly like this, that is funny and light-hearted and about community,” said Mitchell. “It is a beautiful representation of artists of all abilities. I encourage our community to come support other community members as they tell this story.”

But A Midsummer Night’s Dream isn’t the only show on Redhouse’s schedule.

From May 12-21, it will wrap up its 2022/23 season with nine performances of The Bridges of Madison County, a Tony Award-winning musical based on the book of the same name. It follows the story of Francesca Johnson, a married Italian immigrant, and Robert Kincaid, a National Geographic photographer, who embark on a four-day affair.

“It’s a beautiful, romantic musical that really talks about, I think, choices between love and responsibility and love and possibility,” said Underwood. “It’s a great date night play.”

IF YOU GO

Redhouse Arts Center

Where: 400 S. Salina St., Syracuse.

More information: (315) 362-2785. theredhouse.org.

To view photos of past Redhouse productions, visit familytimescny.com

Tickets for both shows are available online, at theredhouse.org, or by calling the box office at (315) 362-2785 (it is also open before each performance if you would rather purchase them in person).

Courtney Kless is the Editor in Chief of Family Times. She lives in Camillus with her husband.

GREAT SUMMERS START AT THE Y!

YMCA Day Camps | 2023

YMCA camps keep kids’ minds and bodies active while nurturing the Y’s core values: caring, honesty, respect and responsibility. Each camp is unique, with offerings for kids aged 2-16 that include archery, art, boating, community service, field trips, teambuilding, group games, outdoor exploration, horseback riding, leadership development, rock climbing, sports, and swimming. Our Camps foster opportunities for making new friends, belonging to a supportive community, and trying something new!

• Art Camps at East Area Family YMCA, Northwest Family YMCA, and Camp Evergreen

• Camp Horizon at Elden Elementary School

• Camp Limestone at Manlius YMCA

• Camp ‘Nesee at East Area Family YMCA

• Camp Odyssey at Northwest Family YMCA

• Camp Southwest and College for Kids at Southwest YMCA

• Camp Y Mustang at KC Heffernan Elementary

• Camp Y Noah at North Area Family YMCA

• YMCA Day Camp Evergreen at Camp Evergreen

We are currently hiring camp staff for our 2023 summer. Drop by any of our group interviews to apply for open positions at any of our camps and learn more about how you can make a difference in our community.

OPEN GROUP INTERVIEWS

Tuesday, May 9th

6:00 - 7:30pm North Area Family Y 4775 Wetzel Road Liverpool, NY

Tuesday, May 16th 6:30 - 8:00pm

JOIN OUR TEAM!

Thursday, May 11th

9:30 - 11:30am

Northwest Family Y 8040 River Road Baldwinsville, NY

Thursday, May 18th 9:30 - 11:00am East Area Family Y 200 Towne Drive

Kids, CNY SPCA Help Save Lives

BY JOHN WHITFORD

Each year at the CNY SPCA, hundreds of dogs, cats and other ‘critters’ (like birds, hamsters, rabbits and ferrets) are adopted into loving homes. Kids often play an important role in the rescue, care, and placement of these wonderful creatures.

First, a bit of history. The CNY SPCA was founded in 1891 to help ensure the proper and humane care of the mules along the Erie Canal. Over the years, the mission of the CNY SPCA expanded to include all domestic, and even farm, animals. Recently two pigs and some chickens found the CNY SPCA to be their temporary home.

So how do kids fit in? Let’s start with education. Many youth groups visit the agency during the year. Often, they bring things that they have collected off its needs list (such as food, treats, toys, and cleaning supplies). While touring the agency, they get to learn about the mission of the CNY SPCA and proper behavior around and treatment of animals. The kids give service and receive education, two very important things.

Many children visit the CNY SPCA with their parents while looking for a new pet. At the CNY SPCA we don’t ‘sell’ animals, we adopt them, so they become the ‘furry’ brother or sister to the kids or the ‘kid’ to the parent(s). During the adoption process, the family learns about the dog or cat that they wish to adopt, and the dog or cat gets to meet their new family to see if it is a good fit. This is a vital step, and when kids are involved, they often make the difference in if a dog or cat finds that special ‘furever’ home.

Sometimes, kids ask their family and friends to make a donation to the CNY SPCA instead of getting them a birthday present. This is a great way for them to start to learn how important giving back is, and it can be the first step in building a habit of thoughtfulness to others and kindness to animals.

Some youth groups, or even kids and their families and friends, do bottle and can drives to benefit the animals at the CNY SPCA. Perhaps a Scout group, church group, or class at a local school might take on such a drive to fund the costs of a kennel for a month (or even a year), and have their group’s name posted on it as a sponsor.

Girl Scouts work towards their Gold award and boys and girls in Scouts BSA sometimes do major service projects at the CNY SPCA, such as the Eagle Scout that created a permanent enrichment project in our cat playroom. A troop might plan a unit service project to clear brush and weeds and tidy up the grounds.

Perhaps most important are all the things that kids learn when they and their family bring home a ‘new’ family member. Kids learn to care for and train their new dog or cat – and they find out that those animals can love them, and they can give love back.

Kids, dogs, and cats go together, and the CNY SPCA is a great place to start that new friendship and adventure.

John Whitford is a volunteer at the CNY SPCA.

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY JOHN WHITFORD

OCC and Say Yes Syracuse Partner, Address Cost of Housing

Graduates of the Syracuse City School District who attend Onondaga Community College –and live on campus – can now receive assistance with housing costs, thanks to a partnership between the college and Say Yes Syracuse. Through the Preferred Partners Program, eligible students can receive a maximum of $2,500 each semester.

“Onondaga Community College has always been a tremendous partner with Say Yes Syracuse,” said Ahmeed Turner, Say Yes Syracuse executive director, in a press release. “We know that by 2027, 70% of all jobs will require some education beyond high school. This new partnership will make attendance at a local institution of higher learning even more affordable for the students in greatest financial need, setting them up for future success.”

The following information sessions will be held in May:

Monday, May 15: 10:30 a.m.-12:45 p.m. and 6-7 p.m. at Corcoran High School.

Wednesday, May 17: 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at Henninger High School. Thursday, May 18: 1-2 p.m. and 5-7 p.m. at PSLA at Fowler. For more information, visit sayyessyracuse.org

Landmark Theatre to Host Encanto: The Sing-Along Film Concert, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone in Concert

Disney and Harry Potter fans, mark your calendars! The Landmark Theatre recently announced upcoming performances of Encanto: The SingAlong Film Concert and Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone in Concert. Tickets are on sale now.

Encanto: The Sing-Along Film Concert kicks off a 45-city tour in September, and will stop in Syracuse on Oct. 20. During the event, a live band will perform alongside a screening of the award-winning movie (songs will include We Don’t Talk About Bruno and Surface Pressure). Then on Jan. 19, Symphoria will play music from the first film in the Harry Potter series

“The Harry Potter film series is a once-in-a-lifetime cultural phenomenon that continues to delight millions of fans around the world,” said Justin Freer, president of CineConcerts and producer/conductor of the Harry Potter Film Concert Series, in a press

release. “It is with great pleasure that we bring fans for the first time ever an opportunity to experience the award-winning music scores played live by a symphony orchestra, all while the beloved film is simultaneously projected onto the big screen. This is truly an unforgettable event.”

For more information about both performances, visit landmarktheatre.org.

WonderWorks Syracuse Offers BOGO Tickets

Has your high school senior recently been accepted to a college or university?

From May 3-7, with a copy of their acceptance letter, they can receive buy one, get one tickets for Wonderworks Syracuse.

“Decision Day is such an exciting time for high school seniors, and we want to help them celebrate this milestone in an unforgettable way!” said General Manager Jon Cascella in a press release. “You’re not going to want to miss out on this inaugural event.”

For more information, visit wonderworksonline.com/ destiny.

Byrne Dairy Celebrates 90th Anniversary with MOST Exhibit

If you’ve recently visited the Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science and Technology (MOST), you may have noticed a new display in the Innovation Station.

The exhibit, which celebrates Byrne Dairy’s 90th anniversary, includes a timeline of the company’s history, models of its dairy processing equipment, and glass milk bottles dating from as far back as the 1930s. It will be available until the end of June.

For more information, visit most.org/explore/innovationstation

For more community news, visit communityguide.familytimescny.com/article. To submit a news item, email courtneyk@familytimescny.com.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE LANDMARK THEATRE

SUMMER STUDIES PROGRAM

July 10th - August 10th

Ballet, Modern, Jazz & Conditioning classes available for children through advanced

June 26th - 30th from 9am to 3pm Ages 5-9

by

25 Birthday Party Locations

BY KATY M. CLARK

Your child’s next birthday is fast approaching and you’re wondering where to hold the party. Perhaps the thought of having it at home makes you break out in a cold sweat. Maybe it is simply not an option.

As the mother of two kids, now a teen and tween, I’ve spent over a decade attending or hosting birthday parties at over two dozen spots. There truly is a place for everyone and every budget. So, check out this list of 25 locations for your child’s next birthday party and get ready to celebrate!

1. Take your group to a local sporting event, such as a minor league baseball game.

2. Visit a zoo or petting zoo.

3. Go to a swimming pool, water park, or splash pad.

4. Try the local park, where you can rent a pavilion as a home base while the kids run around.

5. Think about special events in your town. Piggyback your party on an outdoor summer concert or a viewing of the holiday parade.

6. Go to the movies.

7. Take a walk or hike at a nature center or botanical garden, where you can learn about the outdoors and celebrate with a picnic.

8. Have a party at the fire station. Our local fire station offers short tours for kids, lets them climb on the trucks, and passes out free firefighter hats. Be prepared that the party could be cut short in the event of an actual fire!

9. Visit an orchard in the summer for fruit picking or pick pumpkins at a pumpkin patch in the fall.

10. Most children’s museums welcome birthday parties.

11. Craft stores, such as Joann Fabrics or Michaels, let kids pick a craft and include supplies and a guide to instruct kids in making the craft.

12. How about Build-aBear Workshop?

13. Visit a laser tag venue.

14. Go to the bowling alley. In our town, the bowling alley offers an affordable package that includes two games of bowling, shoe rental, pizza, and a drink. Just show up with a cake or sweet treat for the end.

15. Scale the highest heights at an indoor rock climbing center.

16. Celebrate at a mini golf venue.

17. Try a martial arts studio, where kids can play games and learn age-appropriate skills.

18. Go roller skating at a roller rink.

19. Jump over to a trampoline park.

20. What about the Humane Society or a cat cafe? When my daughter turned 10, she took five friends to our local cat cafe. We paid an hourly fee to visit and play with adoptable cats, then came home to celebrate with dessert. Don’t forgetto check for allergies first!

21. Have the party at a bounce house or inflatables venue.

22. Gymnastics clubs and gyms let you rent their space so kids can run, jump, and play to their heart’s content.

23. Try an ice skating party. Many ice rinks offer party rooms and packages that include skate rentals and public skating for every child. (In my experience, this party idea is suited for older kids who can already skate or have fun trying.)

24. Book a group session at a paint-n-take studio.

25. Celebrate at any indoor play place, such as those found at play cafes or fast food restaurants.

Finally, perhaps you are able to have a party at home, but are just too worried that your house isn’t big enough or exciting enough. In my experience, some of the best (and cheapest) birthday parties I ever hosted were in our home. The home parties pleased kids and parents alike!

So, consider these great options when thinking about where to hold your child’s next birthday party. Any of these 25 locations are sure to please.

A Day Just for Mom

Mother’s Day celebrations and gifts she’ll treasure

BY KIMBERLY BLAKER

The role of mothers in shaping their daughters’ and sons’ lives is unsurpassed. Mothers teach us to love, be strong, be confident, persist, live life to its fullest, and be the best we can be.

Mother’s Day is just around the corner. So, this year give her a gift from your heart and your undivided time to make it a special day she’ll treasure.

Mother’s Day Brunch

Serve your mom a scrumptious breakfast or take her out for Mother’s Day brunch. If you prepare it yourself, the following menu will be sure to please: fruit salad, juice, waffles or pancakes with her favorite blueberry or strawberry topping, Canadian bacon or fresh sausage, omelets or eggs benedict, homemade hash browns, and coffee cake or Danishes. Also, don’t forget the fresh cut flowers for the table centerpiece.

Spring Blooms

What better way to spend a spring day than together in your mother’s garden? Pick up her favorite annuals and perennials: begonias, petunias, violets, morning glories, poppies, marigolds, snapdragons, or mums. Then enjoy a relaxing day together, planting and sprucing up her flower garden and catching up on old times.

Mother/Daughter or Mother/Son Memories

Give your mom a keepsake that’ll be dear to her heart. Purchase Mothers & Daughters: A Record Book About Us to fill out and share with her. Or create your own memory book with a scrapbook or journal. Include photos and memories about special times the two of you have had together; the most important things you remember about your mother from your childhood; how she has inspired you; and the times you look forward to in the future.

The Main Event

Surprise your mother with tickets to an event she’s

been dying to see: the ballet, a concert, play or musical, the opera, a favorite sporting event, a comedy show, or dinner theater. Be sure to tell her you have something special planned (but not what), so she’ll be all yours for the day.

Train Excursion

Spring is the perfect time to tour the countryside. Take a train ride with your mom, and enjoy the vivid colors of spring, blue skies, beautiful blossoms, and other scenic sights.

Family Portrait

Weekend Getaway

Put together a weekend package designed especially for your mom. Choose a city that offers excellent shopping, art museums, and cultural centers, or even a quaint historic town with neat shops, cafes, and parks. Leave the dates for the getaway open so she can make the trip at her convenience, or so the two of you can make plans together.

Keep it Simple

Plan a relaxing day together, enjoying the outdoors. Head to a nearby park where you can meander along nature trails reminiscing or take a scenic bike ride.

If your family is like most, you’re well overdue for an updated family portrait. What better time to have it done than on Mother’s Day? Schedule to have your family’s picture taken at a studio, or hire a photographer for a photoshoot in the park. Coordinate with family members in advance on the formality and color scheme, so outfits don’t clash. Inform your mother how to dress for her special day, but keep the specific reason a surprise.

The Power of Poetry

You don’t need to be a poet to write a special verse for your mother. In your poem, share what it was like growing up with her, how she influenced your life, or tell her just what she means to you. Then print it on stationery, and matte and frame it.

A Little Pampering

Mothers spend many years pampering their children, giving bubble baths, washing hair, and caring for them when they’re ill. Give your mother a special treat, a gift certificate for pampering at the spa where she can enjoy a Swedish massage, hair design, a sea spa manicure and pedicure, or a soothing facial.

Especially for Mothers

Buy a book for and about moms. Consider one of the following:

1. Mother: A Cradle to Hold Me by Maya Angelou

2. I Love You, Mom by Amylee Weeks

3. Why a Daughter Needs a Mom by Gregory E. Lang

4. Why a Son Needs a Mom by Gregory E. Lang

5. Mothersongs: Poems For, By, and About Mothers by Sandra M. Gilbert et al.

6. Mom, I Wrote a Book About You by M.H. Clark

7. Real Poems for Real Moms: From a Mother in the Trenches to Another by Rachel S. Donahue

8. Mom, Tell Me Your Story: Keepsake Journal by Susan Branch

9. You Are One Amazing Lady: Special Thoughts to Share With a Truly Wonderful Woman by Douglas Pagels

10. Dear Mother: The Hot Mess of Motherhood by Bunmi Laditanw

“

I realized when you look at your mother, you are looking at the purest love you will ever know.”

– Mitch Albom

EXPLORE CNY

Baldwinsville offers many family-friendly activities

BY COURTNEY KLESS

This month, Family Times is introducing a new feature, Explore CNY, which will highlight some of the family-friendly activities in area towns. Our first stop is Baldwinsville. Located about 20 minutes north of Syracuse, it is home to parks, u-pick farms and historical sites.

PARKS AND NATURE CENTERS

BEAVER LAKE NATURE CENTER

Beaver Lake Nature Center’s nine trails wind through wetlands, meadows, a bog and more (and they are open year-round). Where: 8477 E. Mud Lake Road. More information: onondagacounty parks.com/parks/beaver-lake-naturecenter.

COMMUNITY PARK

Community Park’s newest addition, an accessible playground, opened in the fall. Families can also take a walk on one of its nature trails or spend some time on the water (there is a kayak launch at the park). Where: Lions Parkway. More information: www.baldwinsville. org/about/parks.

LYSANDER PARK

Lysander Park’s grounds include pickleball courts (rental equipment is available), a playground, a 0.75-mile trail, a life-size checkerboard, and a spray park, which has 24 features.

Where: Smokey Hollow Road. More information: townoflysander.org/ departments/parks-and-recreation

FARMS

ABBOTT FARMS

During a visit to Abbott Farms, families can pick their own strawberries, cherries, raspberries, blueberries, apples and pumpkins (depending on the time of year) or attend one of its family-friendly festivals. Where: 3275 Cold Springs Road. More information: abbottfarms.com.

MICHAEL DAVIS PHOTO

COURTNEY KLESS PHOTO

MICHAEL DAVIS PHOTO

REEVES FARMS

Now in its fourth generation of family ownership, Reeves Farms offers u-pick strawberries and blueberries during the summer months.

Where: 1220 W. Genesee Road. More information: reevesfarms.com.

SPORTS

MUSEUMS AND HISTORICAL SITES

ERIE CANAL AND LOCK 24

A trip to Baldwinsville wouldn’t be complete without a stop at the Erie Canal and Lock 24 (the latter opened in 1910 and is still operational today).

Where: Water St.

More information: discovertheeriecanal. com/communities/Baldwinsville.

SHACKSBORO SCHOOLHOUSE MUSEUM

Are you interested in history? Learn more about Baldwinsville at the Shacksboro Schoolhouse Museum (fun fact: the building dates back to 1879).

Where: 46 Canton St. More information: shacksboro museum.com.

HICKORY HILL GOLF CENTER

Families can play a round of mini golf (the course includes water and a cave), then grab some homemade ice cream.

Where: 3451 State Route 31.

More information: hickoryhillgolf course.com/amenities/mini-golf.

THREE RIVERS ATHLETIC COMPLEX

Three Rivers Athletic Complex offers open skate sessions – and it houses a pro shop and the Overtime Sports Bar & Grill.

Where: 2725 W. Entry Road.

More information: threeriversathletics.org.

ENTERTAINMENT

PAPER MILL ISLAND

The outdoor amphitheater hosts numerous concerts and festivals. Upcoming events include: Seneca River Days (June 9-10) and a performance by the Zac Brown Tribute Band (June 23).

Where: 136 Spensieri Ave.

More information: senecariverdays.com.

Courtney Kless is the Editor in Chief of Family Time

ISTOCK PHOTO

MICHAEL DAVIS PHOTO

MICHAEL DAVIS PHOTO MICHAEL DAVIS PHOTO

Read the June issue of Family Times to see what town we feature next!

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MAY 2023

Please note: This calendar was up-todate at the time of publication. Please call the sponsoring organization’s phone number or visit the website to confirm event details.

MONDAY, MAY 1

See Library & Ongoing Events

TUESDAY, MAY 2

See Library & Ongoing Events

WEDNESDAY, MAY 3

See Library & Ongoing Events

THURSDAY, MAY 4

Animal Yoga. 11 a.m.noon. Children ages 3-5 can walk a short trail and learn how different animals move. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. $5/child; $5/vehicle. Registration required: (315) 638-2519. onondagacountyparks.com.

FRIDAY, MAY 5

Celebrando Nuestras Costumbres. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Families can learn about animals from Spanish-speaking countries through games, stories, arts and crafts and more. Rosamond Gifford Zoo,

1 Conservation Place, Syracuse. Included with zoo admission: $9/adults; $5/youth ages 3-17; free/ages 2 and under. (315) 4358511. rosamondgiffordzoo.org.

SATURDAY, MAY 6

Junior Naturalist Walk: Feathered Birds. 10-11:30 a.m. & 1-2:30 p.m. Attendees can learn about birds during a guided hike. Rice Creek Field Station, 193 Thompson Road, Oswego. Free. (315) 3126677. oswego.edu/rice-creek.

Syracuse Crawfish Festival. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. This event will include crafters, live entertainment and a Kids Zone. Clinton Square, Syracuse. Free admission. operationnc.org.

SUNDAY, MAY 7

Spring Migration Festival. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Features: Cornell Raptors, Utica Zoo Mobile, Drew the Magician, Audubon Society, Wildlife Rock Stars, Kids nature games and crafts, wildlife artists and crafters, chicken BBQ, Lady Bug Cafe, tractor/ wagon rides to the overlook in search of migratory birds and more family oriented, environmental displays/exhibits. Great Swamp Conservancy, 8375 N. Main St., Canastota. Admission: $4/adults; $1/chil-

dren ages 12 and under. (315) 697-2950. greatswampconservancy.org.

LGBTQ+ Family Day of Visibility. 10 a.m.4:30 p.m. This event will celebrate the LGBTQ+ community, and include keeper talks, entertainment and more. Rosamond Gifford Zoo, 1 Conservation Place, Syracuse. Included with zoo admission: $9/adults; $5/youth ages 3-17; free/ages 2 and under. (315) 4358511. rosamondgiffordzoo.org.

Nature Discovery Station. 11 a.m. Attendees can learn from a naturalist and try hands-on activities. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. $5/vehicle. (315) 638-2519. onondagacountyparks.com.

Syracuse Mets vs. Lehigh Valley IronPigs. 1 p.m. Kids can receive a voucher for a free meal – and run the bases after the game. NBT Bank Stadium, 1 Tex Simone Drive, Syracuse. $16-$39. (315) 474-7833. syracusemets.com.

MONDAY, MAY 8

Mini Childbirth Ed. 6-7:30 p.m. Looking for the basic tools and information for preparing for birth but have limited time?

This mini-prep class will help prepare you for what to expect during labor. You will gain confidence, learn about the birth process and address concerns. Dr. Rebecca Alexander Carey, physical therapist and yoga instructor, will also speak about how to prepare for labor and birth. CNY Healing Arts, 195 Intrepid Lane, Syracuse. Free. Registration encouraged: (315) 707-8097. cnydoulaconnection.com.

TUESDAY, MAY 9

Dear Evan Hansen. 7:30 p.m. This Tony award-winning musical is about a high school student struggling with anxiety, relationships and social acceptance.

Landmark Theatre, 362 S. Salina St., Syracuse. $30-$87. (315) 475-7979. landmarktheatre.org.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 10

Sharing Nature with Your Child. 11 a.m.noon. Preschoolers, accompanied by an adult, can take part in outdoor and nature-related activities. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. $7/child; $5/vehicle. Registration required: (315) 638-2519. onondagacountyparks.com.

Dear Evan Hansen 7:30 p.m. This Tony award-winning musical is about a high school student struggling with anxiety, relationships and social acceptance.

Landmark Theatre, 362 S. Salina St., Syracuse. $30-$87. (315) 475-7979. landmarktheatre.org.

THURSDAY, MAY 11

Dear Evan Hansen 7:30 p.m. This Tony award-winning musical is about a high school student struggling with anxiety, relationships and social acceptance.

Landmark Theatre, 362 S. Salina St., Syracuse. $30-$87. (315) 475-7979. landmarktheatre.org.

FRIDAY, MAY 12

Dear Evan Hansen. 7:30 p.m. This Tony award-winning musical is about a high school student struggling with anxiety, relationships and social acceptance.

Landmark Theatre, 362 S. Salina St., Syracuse. $30-$87. (315) 475-7979. landmarktheatre.org.

SATURDAY, MAY 13

RetroGameCon Jr. 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. An exciting convention of free play, tournaments, cosplay and more. Museum of Science and Technology (MOST), 500 S. Franklin St., Armory Square, Syracuse. Included with admission: $12/adults; $10/ children (ages 2-11); $5/seniors (65+); free (under 2). (315) 425-9068. most.org.

Opening Day. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Join the zoo as it begins the 2023 season. Fort Rickey Children’s Discovery Zoo, 5135 Rome-New London Road, Rome. Admission: $10.75 (plus tax)/adults (16+); $8.75 (plus tax)/ ages 2-15; free/under 2. fortrickey.com.

2023 Food Truck Battle. 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Check out more than 50 food trucks. The event will also feature live music and a

Kid Zone. Chevy Court, New York State Fairgrounds, Syracuse. Admission: $10/ adults ($5/pre-sale); free/ages 12 and under. syrfoodtrucks.com/food-truck-battle.

Dear Evan Hansen. 2 & 8 p.m. This Tony award-winning musical is about a high school student struggling with anxiety, relationships and social acceptance. Landmark Theatre, 362 S. Salina St., Syracuse. $30-$87. (315) 475-7979. landmarktheatre.org.

SUNDAY, MAY 14

HAPPY

Mother’s Day

Events

SATURDAY, MAY 13

Mother’s Day Picnic. 11 a.m., noon, 1 p.m. & 2 p.m.; also May 14. Families can enjoy a picnic at Beak and Skiff’s Apple Hill Campus. A Build-Your-Own Biodegradable Potted Plant Workshop is also available for an additional fee. Beak and Skiff Apple Orchards, 2708 Lords Hill Road, Lafayette. $8-$18. (315) 696-6085. beakandskiff.com.

Mother’s Day Brunch Train –Adirondack Railroad. 11 a.m.-2 p.m.; also May 14 & 15. This round-trip ride from Utica to Remsen will include brunch. Union Station, 321 Main St., Utica. First class tickets: $109/adults (ages 12 and up); $54/children (ages 2-12). 1-800-819-2291. adirondackrr.com.

SUNDAY, MAY 14

Mother’s Day Brunch. 9-10:30 a.m. Celebrate Mother’s Day with brunch at the zoo. Rosamond Gifford Zoo, 1 Conservation Place, Syracuse. $35.95/ adults; $18.95/children (free under 3). (315) 435-8511. rosamondgiffordzoo.org

Mother’s Day at the Wild. 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Celebrate Mother’s Day with a visit

to the zoo. Check its website on May 13 for the special. The Wild Animal Park, 7621 Lakeport Road, Chittenango. Admission: $16.99/adults; $14.99/seniors and children up to age 12; free/ages 2 and under. thewildpark.com.

Mother’s Day Garden Tour. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Families can take a self-guided tour of more than 30 acres of gardens. Food trucks will also be available. Sycamore Hill Gardens, 2130 Old Seneca Turnpike, Marcellus. $10/ages 9 and up; $24/family four pack. (315) 673-1350. baltimorewoods. org/mothers-day-garden-tour-atsycamore-hill-gardens.

Mother’s Day at Fort Rickey Children’s Discovery Zoo. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Visit the animals during opening weekend. Admission for mothers is free (but you must purchase one child admission). Fort Rickey Children’s Discovery Zoo, 5135 Rome-New London Road, Rome. Admission: $10.75 (plus tax)/adults (16+); $8.75 (plus tax)/ages 2-15; free/under 2. fortrickey.com.

Mimosas for Mom at Critz Farms. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Enjoy specialty mimosas. Critz Farms, 3232 Rippleton Road, Cazenovia. (315) 662-3355. critzfarms.com.

Nature Discovery Station. 11 a.m. Attendees can learn from a naturalist and try hands-on activities. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. $5/vehicle. (315) 638-2519. onondagacountyparks.com.

Dear Evan Hansen. 1 & 6:30 p.m. This Tony award-winning musical is about a high school student struggling with anxiety, relationships and social acceptance. Landmark Theatre, 362 S. Salina St., Syracuse. $30-$87. (315) 475-7979. landmarktheatre.org.

MONDAY, MAY 15

See Library & Ongoing Events

TUESDAY, MAY 16

See Library & Ongoing Events

WEDNESDAY, MAY 17

See Library & Ongoing Events

THURSDAY, MAY 18

See Library & Ongoing Events

FRIDAY, MAY 19

Kids’ Night Out. 5:30-9 p.m. Children ages 6-10 can take a tour of the zoo, play games and more. The event also includes a pizza party. Rosamond Gifford Zoo, 1 Conservation Place, Syracuse. $30/members; $35/non-members. Registration required: (315) 435-8511 x8559. rosamond giffordzoo.org.

SATURDAY, MAY 20

Cinderella. 2 p.m. Families can watch a performance of the beloved classic. The Stanley Theatre, 261 Genesee St., Utica. $39-$56. (315) 7244000. thestanley.org.

Sensory Friendly Time. 4:30-8 p.m. The museum turns down the noise, turns off the flashing lights, and makes other accommodations so people with sensory processing challenges can explore the ex-

hibits. Museum of Science and Technology (MOST), 500 S. Franklin St., Armory Square, Syracuse. $5/non-members. (315) 425-9068. most.org.

SUNDAY, MAY 21

Nature Discovery Station. 11 a.m. Attendees can learn from a naturalist and try hands-on activities. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. $5/vehicle. (315) 638-2519. onondagacountyparks.com.

Cinderella 2 p.m. Families can watch a performance of the beloved classic. The Stanley Theatre, 261 Genesee St., Utica. $39-$56. (315) 724-4000. thestanley.org.

MONDAY, MAY 22

See Library & Ongoing Events

TUESDAY, MAY 23

See Library & Ongoing Events

WEDNESDAY, MAY 24

See Library & Ongoing Events

THURSDAY, MAY 25

See Library & Ongoing Events

FRIDAY, MAY 26

See Library & Ongoing Events

SATURDAY, MAY 27

Be the Scientist. 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Held on the last Saturday of each month, this program allows visitors to explore careers in STEM. Museum of Science and Technology (MOST), 500 S. Franklin St., Armory Square, Syracuse. Free for participants. $12/adults; $10/seniors (65+). (315) 425-9068. most.org.

Syracuse Mets vs. Louisville Bats. 6:30 p.m. This game will feature a Super Saturday giveaway and fireworks. NBT Bank Stadium, 1 Tex Simone Drive, Syracuse. $16-$39. (315) 474-7833. syracusemets.com.

SUNDAY, MAY 28

Nature Discovery Station. 11 a.m. Attendees can learn from a naturalist and try hands-on activities. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. $5/vehicle. (315) 638-2519. onondagacountyparks.com.

Syracuse Mets vs. Louisville Bats. 6:30 p.m. Kids can receive a voucher for a free meal – then enjoy a Memorial Day Weekend Fireworks Extravaganza after the game. NBT Bank Stadium, 1 Tex Simone Drive, Syracuse. $16-$39. (315) 474-7833. syracusemets.com.

MONDAY, MAY 29

DAY MEMORIAL

Visit the Family Times Community Guide for a list of parades in Central New York

TUESDAY, MAY 30

See Library & Ongoing Events

WEDNESDAY, MAY 31

See Library & Ongoing Events

LIBRARY EVENTS

BALDWINSVILLE

PUBLIC LIBRARY

33 E. Genesee St., Baldwinsville. (315) 635-5631. bville.lib.ny.us.

MONDAY, MAY 8

2nd Monday Club to Go. 6-7 p.m. Grades 4-6. Free. Registration required.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 17

Teen Trends to Go: Leaf Print Wood Slice Coasters. 6-7 p.m. Ages 13-19. Free. Registration required.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 31

Teen Trends to Go: Glue Painting on Canvas. 6-7 p.m. Ages 13-19. Free. Registration required.

Click for more events

BEAUCHAMP

BRANCH LIBRARY

2111 S. Salina St., Syracuse. (315) 435-3395. onlib.org.

THURSDAY, MAY 4

Future Innovators Club. 2:30-5 p.m. Grades 6-9. Free.

Click for more events

BETTS BRANCH LIBRARY

4862 S. Salina St., Syracuse. (315) 435-1940. onlib.org.

SATURDAY, MAY 6

CNY Young Naturalists. 2-3 p.m. Ages 5 and up. Free.

Click for more events

COMMUNITY LIBRARY OF DEWITT & JAMESVILLE

5110 Jamesville Road, Jamesville. (315) 446-3578. cldandj.org.

SUNDAY, MAY 7

Chalk the Walk. 2-4 p.m. All ages. Free.

MONDAY, MAY 8

Homeschool Art Showcase Reception. 3:30-6:30 p.m. All ages. Free. Registration required.

SUNDAY, MAY 14

Family Movie: Raya and the Last Dragon. 2-4 p.m. All ages. Free.

Erie Canal Historic Trails Hike

Families, youth groups and the general public are invited to join us for biking, hiking or boating from DeWitt to Chittenango Landing on May 13 or May 27. We plan to gather at 9 a.m. at Cedar Bay Park for a brief talk on the history of the canal. There will be a similar gathering at Chittenango Landing. This is a great opportunity to get in a 10-mile hike toward the Historic Trails Award and the Canalway Challenge (Scouts can also get credit toward their hiking or cycling merit badges).

All those in a BSA or Girl Scout uniform can visit the museum at Chittenango Landing for free on both May 13 and 27.

The Erie Canal Historic Trails patch and medallion are available to anyone, but the historic trail medal can only be earned by youths (ages 10-18) who complete the requirements, including covering 15 miles of canal trails by bike, boat, or hiking, and doing a report on what they learned. Full requirements are available online at the Hillcourt Museum website, under the “news” tab. Any youth (in or outside of Scouts or other groups) can earn this award. Adults and youth of all ages can complete the Canalway Challenge and register with the Canalway Corporation to receive that recognition.

Participants for the hike event are not required to start right at 9 a.m., but can come out at any time. A volunteer will be available at Cedar Bay until mid-morning with literature on the awards, as well as patches, medallions and medals for those that want them. The same will be available at Chittenango Landing.

This event is being planned as a precursor to the 200th Anniversary of the opening of the Erie Canal in 1825. It is hoped that by 2025, we will be able to kick off an event that will be statewide for both Scouts and non-scouts to participate in.

Start your journey to learn about the wonderful history that we enjoy here in New York – and especially in Syracuse. Don’t forget to plan a visit to the Weighlock Museum on Erie Boulevard, the only remaining weighlock from the original canal. This year also marks the 100th anniversary of the city’s purchase of five miles of the canal and filling it in to become Erie Boulevard.

Funded, in part, through the generous support of the New York State Canal Corporation and Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor.

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY JOHN WHITFORD Call to Request Your Appointment with a Pediatrician PEDIATRIC ASSOCIATES LLP www.PediatricAssociatesNY.com

SATURDAY, MAY 20

My Grown Up and Me Paint Together. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Kindergarten and up. Free. Registration required.

Click for more events

FAIRMOUNT COMMUNITY LIBRARY

406 Chapel Drive, Syracuse. (315) 487-8933. fairmountlibrary.org.

MONDAY, MAY 1

Messy Monday. 10:15-11 a.m. Ages 2-5. Free. Registration required.

SATURDAY, MAY 6

Bird Storytime with Local Author John Trombetta. 10:30-11 a.m. All ages. Free. Registration required.

THURSDAY, MAY 11

Mom & Me Zumba Class. 6-6:45 p.m. Ages 6-18. Free. Registration required.

SATURDAY, MAY 13

Mother’s Day Tea. 10-11 a.m. All ages. Free. Registration required.

MONDAY, MAY 15

Preschool Prep. 10:15-11 a.m. Ages 3-5. Free. Registration required.

THURSDAY, MAY 18

Little Mermaid Party. 5:30-6:30 p.m. All ages. Free. Registration required.

Click for more events

FAYETTEVILLE FREE LIBRARY

300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. (315) 637-6374. fflib.org

TUESDAY, MAY 2

Star Wars Trivia. 4-5 p.m. Grades 5-8. Free. Registration required.

DIY Mini Lightsabers. 4:15-5 p.m. All ages. Free. Registration required.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 3

Kids Star Wars Bingo! 4:15-5 p.m. Grades K-4. Free. Registration required.

THURSDAY, MAY 4

Star Wars Robot Battle. 4:15-5 p.m. Grades 3-6. Free. Registration required.

TUESDAY, MAY 9

Paper Flowers. 4-5 p.m. Grades 5-8. Free. Registration required.

THURSDAY, MAY 11

Shrinky Dink Suncatcher. 4:15-5 p.m. Grades 3-6. Free. Registration required.

FRIDAY, MAY 12

Interactive Movie: Shrek 2. 6-7:30 p.m. Grades 3 and up. Free. Registration required.

TUESDAY, MAY 23

Art with the Everson. 4-5 p.m. Grades 5-8. Free. Registration required.

TUESDAY, MAY 30

Blind Taste Test: Soda. 4-5 p.m. Grades 5-8. Free. Registration required.

Click for more events

HAZARD BRANCH LIBRARY

1620 W. Genesee St., Syracuse. (315) 435-5326. onlib.org

THURSDAY, MAY 4

Star Wars Day. 9 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Ages 5-18. Free.

SATURDAY, MAY 6

Saturday Stories with Cooper. 10:3011:30 a.m. Ages 3-12. Free.

FRIDAY, MAY 12

Friday Funday: Mother’s Day Cards. 3-4 p.m. Ages 5-18. Free.

MONDAY, MAY 15

Edible Alphabet. 3-4 p.m. Ages 5-12. Free.

FRIDAY, MAY 19

Friday Funday: Model Magic Sculptures. 3-4 p.m. Ages 5-18. Free.

TUESDAY, MAY 23

Puss in Boots: The Last Wish. 5:30-7 p.m. All ages. Free.

THURSDAY, MAY 25

Pajama Storytime. 6-7 p.m. Ages 3-7. Free.

FRIDAY, MAY 26

Friday Funday: Paper Airplane Contest. 3-4 p.m. Ages 5-18. Free.

Click for more events

LIVERPOOL PUBLIC LIBRARY

310 Tulip St., Liverpool. (315) 457-0310. lpl.org.

FRIDAY, MAY 5

Toddler Cinco De Mayo Party. 10-11:30 a.m. Ages 0-5. Free.

Night Out Parents’

MONDAY, MAY 1

My Fair Lady. 7:30 p.m.; also May 2. Watch as Eliza Doolittle transforms from a flower seller to sophisticated lady. The Stanley Theatre, 261 Genesee St., Utica. $52-$102. (315) 724-4000. thestanley.org.

THURSDAY, MAY 4

NightLab: Star Wars. 6-10 p.m. This event will include science-themed activities, a happy hour and a showing of Star Wars: The Force Awakens (7:30 p.m.). Museum of Science and Technology (MOST), 500 S. Franklin St., Armory Square, Syracuse. $20/person. (315) 4259068. most.org.

SATURDAY, MAY 6

Syracuse Pops Chorus Singers’ Choice Concert. 7-8:30 p.m. Enjoy selections from chorus members, ranging from Americana to classic rock to Broadway. St. Paul’s Syracuse, 310 Montgomery St., Syracuse. $20. syracusepopschorus.org.

FRIDAY, MAY 12

Who Framed Jessica Rabbit. 7:30 p.m.; also May 13. This burlesque show (ages 18+) follows Jessica Rabbit as she tries to figure out who framed her. Cortland Repertory Theatre, 24 Port Watson St., Cortland. $25. 800-427-6160. cortlandrep.org.

SATURDAY, MAY 13

Adult Zoo Camp. 9 a.m.-noon & 1-4 p.m. Attendees can meet animal ambassadors, make arts and crafts and more. Rosamond Gifford Zoo, 1 Conservation Place, Syracuse. $50/members; $60/ non-members. Registration required: (315) 435-8511. rosamondgiffordzoo.org.

Historical Sip & Paint. 1-3 p.m. Attendees can create their own painting of the Erie Canal. Oneida County History Center, 1608 Genesee St., Utica. $35/members; $40/ non-members. Registration required: (315) 735-3642. oneidacountyhistory.org.

Symphoria Pops V: Queens of Soul. 7:30 p.m. Enjoy songs from Aretha Franklin, Tina Turner, Whitney Houston and more. Oncenter Crouse Hinds Concert Theater, 421 Montgomery St., Syracuse. $43-$73. (315) 299-5598. experience symphoria.org.

SUNDAY, MAY 14

Kevin Hart: Reality Check Comedy Tour. 6 p.m. Enjoy a performance by actor and comedian Kevin Hart. Turning Stone Casino, 5218 Patrick Road, Verona. $69$199. 1-800-771-7711. turningstone.com.

THURSDAY, MAY 18

Third Thursdays. 5-8 p.m. Explore the museum’s current exhibitions. Everson Museum of Art, 401 Harrison St., Syracuse. Free. (315) 474 6064. everson.org.

SATURDAY, MAY 20

Sip Into Spring Garden Gathering. 3-6 p.m. This event will feature live music and food and beer samples. Rome Art and Community Center, 308 W. Bloomfield St., Rome. $10. (315) 336-1040. romeart.org.

SATURDAY, MAY 6

Let’s Celebrate Star Wars. 1-3 p.m. All ages. Free.

SATURDAY, MAY 13

ADHD and Me: A Support Group for Kids with ADHD. 1-2 p.m. Ages 5-12. Free. Registration required.

SATURDAY, MAY 20

Hora del Cuento en Español. 10-11 a.m. Ages 0-5. Free. Registration required.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 24

International Tiara Day Story Time. 10-11 a.m. Ages 0-5. Free. Registration required.

THURSDAY, MAY 25

Afterschool STEAM: Gardening Science. 4:30-5:30. Grades 1-6. Free. Registration required.

SATURDAY, MAY 27

Teen LGBTQIA+ Club. 2:30-3:30 p.m. Ages 12-19. Free.

TUESDAY, MAY 30

Let’s Create! Unpredictable Art. 7-8 p.m. Ages 3 and up. Free. Registration required.

Click for more events

MANLIUS LIBRARY

1 Arkie Albanese Ave., Manlius. (315) 682-6400. manliuslibrary.org.

SATURDAY, MAY 6

The Kid’s Table Presents: Slime Fun. 10:30-11:15 a.m. All ages. Free. Registration required.

TUESDAY, MAY 16

Super Smash Bros Ultimate Tournament. 3-5 p.m. Grades 5 and up. Free. Registration required.

THURSDAY, MAY 18

Improv Workshop. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Ages 13-19. Free. Registration required.

SATURDAY, MAY 20

The Kid’s Table Field Celebrates: Child Safety Day. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. All ages. Free.

TUESDAY, MAY 23

Feel-Good Flicks: The Parent Trap. 6:30-8:30 p.m. All ages. Free.

TUESDAY, MAY 30

Feel-Good Flicks: Beauty & the Beast. 6:30-8:30 p.m. All ages. Free.

Click for more events

MAXWELL MEMORIAL LIBRARY

14 Genesee St., Camillus. (315) 672-3661. maxwellmemoriallibrary.org.

TUESDAY, MAY 2

Tuesday Kids Crafts. 10 a.m.-7:30 p.m.; repeats every Tuesday. Ages 3-10. Free.

MONDAY, MAY 8

Homeschool Fun. 1-2:30 p.m. All ages. Free.

SATURDAY, MAY 13

Saturday Family Fun. 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. All ages. Free.

SATURDAY, MAY 20

Sticker Palooza. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. All ages. Free. Registration required.

Click for more events

NOPL BREWERTON

5440 Bennett St., Brewerton. (315) 676-7484. nopl.org.

MONDAY, MAY 1

Journal Making for Teens. 4-6 p.m. Free. Registration required.

TUESDAY, MAY 2

Mindfulness Tools for Kids. 11:30 a.m.12:30 p.m.; repeats every Tuesday. All ages. Free.

MONDAY, MAY 15

Water Bottle Decorating for Teens. 4-6 p.m. Free. Registration required.

Click for more events

NOPL CICERO

8686 Knowledge Lane, Cicero. (315) 699-2032. nopl.org.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 3

Kids Make: Clothespin Bugs. 3:30-4:30 p.m. All ages. Free. Registration required.

THURSDAY, MAY 4

Star Wars Day Crafts for Kids. 3:30-4:30 p.m. All ages. Free. Registration required.

SATURDAY, MAY 6

Friends of the Library Ice Cream Social and Craft Swap. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. All ages. Free.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 17

Kids Make: Story Character Spoons. 3:30-4:30 p.m. All ages. Free. Registration required.

TUESDAY, MAY 23

DIY Self Care Kits for Teens. 4:30-5:30 p.m. Free. Registration required.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 31

Kids Make: Tissue Paper Mosaic Art. 3:30-4:30 p.m. All ages. Free. Registration required.

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NOPL NORTH SYRACUSE 100 Trolley Barn Lane, North Syracuse. (315) 458-6184. nopl.org

TUESDAY, MAY 9

Bad Kitty Storytime. 6-7 p.m. All ages. Free.

TUESDAY, MAY 16

Drop in Crafts: Endangered Species. 3-7 p.m. All ages. Free.

TUESDAY, MAY 21

Mermaid Storytime. 6-7 p.m. All ages. Free.

TUESDAY, MAY 30

Teens: Make a Book Soundtrack. 6-7 p.m. Grades 5-12. Free. Registration required.

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ONONDAGA FREE LIBRARY

4840 W. Seneca Turnpike, Syracuse. (315) 492-1727. oflibrary.org.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 3

Teen Pokémon Meetup. 3:30-5 p.m. Grades 6-12. Free.

THURSDAY, MAY 4

Star Wars Day. All day. All ages. Free.

TUESDAY, MAY 9

ART-ventures. 4-5 p.m. Grades K-5. Free. Registration required.

SATURDAY, MAY 13

Teen Art Class: Paint a Summer Scene. 2-3:30 p.m. Grades 6-12. Free. Registration required.

THURSDAY, MAY 18

Teen Mindfulness Matters. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Grades 7-12. Free. Registration required.

FRIDAY, MAY 26

Sensory Play. 10-11 a.m. Ages 2-5. Free. Registration required.

TUESDAY, MAY 30

Learn-Explore-Create. 6-7 p.m. Grades K-5. Free. Registration required.

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FAMILY TIMES CALENDAR LISTINGS ARE FREE!

LISTINGS ARE DUE BY MAY 3 FOR THE JUNE ISSUE

Send information about your family-friendly event to:

Family Times calendar, 9 Albany St., Suite 2e, Cazenovia; fax to (315) 422-1721; or email to courtneyk@familytimescny.com.

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 additional exposure:

Upload your event to the community guide at communityguide.familytimescny.com.

Click on the FAQ tab for a video tutorial.

SOULE BRANCH LIBRARY 101 Springfield Road, Syracuse. (315) 435-5320. onlib.org

TUESDAY, MAY 2

Tween/Teen Anime Club. 4:15-5 p.m.; repeats every Tuesday. Grades 5-12. Free.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 3

Big Games Wednesday. 2-5 p.m.; repeats every Wednesday. All ages. Free.

FRIDAY, MAY 5

LEGO Challenge Afternoon. 2:15-5 p.m.; repeats every Friday. All ages. Free.

SATURDAY, MAY 13

Tween/Teen Cosplay Workshop. 1:30-3 p.m. Free. Registration required.

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National Days May

MAY 1: NATIONAL MOTHER GOOSE DAY

MAY 2: NATIONAL TEACHER APPRECIATION DAY

MAY 3: NATIONAL BIKE TO SCHOOL DAY

MAY 4: NATIONAL STAR WARS DAY

MAY 5: NATIONAL ASTRONAUT DAY

MAY 6: NATIONAL PLAY OUTSIDE DAY

MAY 7: NATIONAL LEMONADE DAY

MAY 10: NATIONAL CLEAN UP YOUR ROOM DAY

MAY 15: NATIONAL CHOCOLATE CHIP DAY

MAY 16: NATIONAL DO SOMETHING GOOD FOR YOUR NEIGHBOR DAY

MAY 19: NATIONAL PIZZA PARTY DAY

MAY 21: NATIONAL TAKE YOUR PARENTS TO THE PLAYGROUND DAY

MAY 26: NATIONAL PAPER AIRPLANE DAY

MAY 30: NATIONAL CREATIVITY DAY

MAY 31: NATIONAL FLIP FLOP DAY

Source: nationaldaycalendar.com

ONGOING EVENTS

Great Swamp Conservancy Nature Trails. Daily, dawn to dusk. Throughout the year, visitors can grab their walking shoes and explore 4.5 miles of wellgroomed, flat trails. Trails feature a 900foot 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. greatswampconservancy.org.

Baltimore Woods Nature Center. Hiking trails and parking are free and open every day from dawn to dusk. Baltimore Woods Nature Center, 4007 Bishop Hill Road, Marcellus. (315) 673-1350. baltimore woods.org.

Spring Fishing. Wednesdays and Saturdays, 9-11:30 a.m. Families and individuals can come for a morning of fishing (fishing license not required). Carpenter’s Brook Fish Hatchery, 1672 Route 321, Elbridge. $5/person; free/ages 2 and under. Preregistration and prepayment required: (315) 451-6249. onondaga countyparks.com.

#SYRFoodTrucks in the Park. Saturdays and Sundays (May 13-June 25), 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Enjoy food from local businesses. Long Branch Park at Onondaga Lake Park, 3813 Long Branch Road, Liverpool. Free admission. syrfoodtrucks.com

Canoeing & Kayaking. Thursdays (May 18-Aug. 17), 4-8 p.m. Paddle around Beaver Lake searching for beaver lodges, turtles and herons. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. $10/hour of rental. $5/vehicle. Call for current weather conditions: (315) 638-2519. onondagacountyparks.com.

Regional Market Farmers’ Market. Saturdays, 7 a.m.-2 p.m. (year-round); Thursdays, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. (May through

November only). 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.

STORYTIMES

Baldwinsville Public Library

Storytimes. Drop in Storytime (ages 0-5): Thursdays, 10-10:30 a.m. Baldwinsville Public Library, 33 E. Genesee St., Baldwinsville. Free. Registration required: (315) 635-5631. bville.lib.ny.us.

Barnes & Noble Storytimes (Clay). Storytime: Saturdays, 11 a.m. Barnes & Noble, 3956 Route 31, Liverpool. Free. (315) 622-0370. barnesandnoble.com.

Barnes & Noble Storytimes (DeWitt). Storytime with Miss Rachael: Thursdays, 10 a.m. Barnes & Noble, 3454 Erie Blvd. E., DeWitt. Free. (315) 449-2948. barnesand noble.com.

Beauchamp Branch Library Storytimes.

Storytime: Wednesdays, 10-10:30 a.m. Beauchamp Branch Library, 2111 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Free. (315) 435-3395. onlib.org.

Central Library Storytimes. Storytime with Miss Lauren: Thursdays, 10:30-11 a.m. Central Library, 447 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Free. (315) 435-1900. onlib.org.

Community Library of DeWitt & Jamesville Storytimes. Babies and Books: Mondays, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Story Play (ages 0-5): Tuesdays & Wednesdays, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Community Library of DeWitt & Jamesville, 5110 Jamesville Road, Jamesville. Free. (315) 446-3578. cldandj.org.

Fairmount Community Library

Storytimes. Storytime for Preschoolers (ages 0-5): Tuesdays, 10:15-11 a.m. Music is Magic (ages 0-5): Thursdays (except May 25), 10:15-11 a.m. Fairmount Community Library, 406 Chapel Drive, Syracuse. Free. Registration required: (315) 487-8933. fairmountlibrary.org.

10:30-11 a.m. First Steps: Toddler Storytime (ages 0-3): Wednesdays, 9:30-10 a.m. Sing, Learn, Sign: Baby Storytime (ages 0-18 months): Wednesdays, 10:3011:30 a.m. Family Storytime (all ages): Thursdays (May 4 & 18), 10:30-11 a.m. Music & Movement (ages 0-5): Thursdays (May 11 & 25), 10:30-11 a.m. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free. Registration encouraged: (315) 6376374. fflib.org.

Liverpool Public Library Storytimes. Toddler Toy Time: Mondays (except May 29), 10-11 a.m. Stretches & Stories: Tuesdays (May 9 & 23), 10-11 a.m. Family Storytime: Wednesdays (May 3,10 & 17), 10-10:30 a.m. Pajamas & Plushies: Thursdays, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Baby Time: Fridays (except May 5), 10-11 a.m. Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool. Free. (315) 457-0310. lpl.org.

Manlius Library Storytimes. Jigglebugs: Mondays (May 1, 8 & 15), 10:30-11 a.m. Toddler Storytime: Tuesdays, 10:30-11 a.m. Preschool Storytime: Wednesdays, 10:3011 a.m. Pajama Storytime: Wednesdays, 6:30-7 p.m. Manlius Library, 1 Arkie Albanese Ave., Manlius. Free. (315) 6826400. manliuslibrary.org.

Maxwell Library Storytimes. Storytots (ages 0-3): Wednesdays, 10:30-11:15 a.m. Maxwell Memorial Library, 14 Genesee St., Camillus. Free. Registration required: (315) 672-3661. maxwell memoriallibrary.org.

MOST Storytimes. STEM Storytime (ages 2-6): Friday- Sunday, 11:30 a.m.noon. Museum of Science and Technology (MOST), 500 S. Franklin St., Armory Square, Syracuse. Included with admission: $12/adults; $10/children (ages 2-11); $5/seniors (65+); free (under 2). (315) 4259068. most.org.

Mundy Branch Library Storytimes. Storytime with Ms. Laura: Tuesdays, 11 a.m.-noon. Mundy Branch Library, 1204 S. Geddes St., Syracuse. Free. (315) 435-3797. onlib.org.

NOPL Brewerton Storytimes. Storytime: Tuesdays, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Mental Health Storytime: Thursdays, 10:30-11:30 a.m.

NOPL Brewerton, 5440 Bennett St., Brewerton. Free. (315) 676-7484. nopl.org.

NOPL Cicero Storytimes. Family Storytime: Thursdays, 10-10:30 a.m. NOPL Cicero, 8686 Knowledge Lane, Cicero. Free. Registration required: (315) 6992032. nopl.org.

NOPL North Syracuse Storytimes. Storytime with Miss Sarah: Wednesdays, 10-11 a.m. NOPL North Syracuse, 100 Trolley Barn Lane, North Syracuse. Free. (315) 458-6184. nopl.org.

Onondaga Free Library Storytimes. Baby Meet & Play (0-24 months): Mondays (May 8, 15 & 22), 10 a.m.-noon. Wiggleworms (ages 2-5): Wednesdays (except May 3), 9:30-10:15 a.m. & 11-11:45 a.m. Preschool Storytime: Thursdays (except May 4), 10:30-11:30 a.m. Onondaga Free Library, 4840 W. Seneca Turnpike, Syracuse. Registration required: (315) 4921727. oflibrary.org.

Petit Branch Library Storytimes. Read, Sing and Play Storytime (18 months-5 years): Tuesdays, 10:30-11 a.m. Petit Branch Library, 105 Victoria Place, Syracuse. Free. (315) 435-3636. onlib.org.

Soule Branch Library Storytimes. Lapsit Storytime: Thursdays, 10:30-11 a.m. Storytime with Miss Margaret: Fridays, 10:30-11 a.m. Soule Branch Library, 101 Springfield Road, Syracuse. Free. (315) 435-5320. onlib.org.

Fayetteville Free Library Storytimes. Storytime & Craft (ages 3-5): Tuesdays,

NATURE DISCOVERY STATION

Sunday, May 7, 14, 21 & 28 at 11 a.m. Attendees can learn from a naturalist and try hands-on activities. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. $5/vehicle. (315) 638-2519. onondagacountyparks.com.

SPRING MIGRATION FESTIVAL

Sunday, May 7 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Features: Cornell Raptors, Utica Zoo Mobile, Drew the Magician, Audubon Society, Wildlife Rock Stars, Kids nature games and crafts, wildlife artists and crafters, chicken BBQ, Lady Bug Cafe, tractor/wagon rides to the overlook in search of migratory birds and more family oriented, environmental displays/exhibits. Great Swamp Conservancy, 8375 N. Main St., Canastota. Admission: $4/adults; $1/children ages 12 and under. (315) 697-2950. greatswampconservancy.org.

RETROGAMECON JR.

Saturday, May 13 from 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.

An exciting convention of free play, tournaments, cosplay and more. Museum of Science and Technology (MOST), 500 S. Franklin St., Armory Square, Syracuse. Included with admission: $12/adults; $10/children (ages 2-11); $5/seniors (65+); free (under 2). (315) 425-9068. most.org.

SCHOOL EVENTS

AUBURN ENLARGED CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

May 3: NYSSMA Solo Festival, Auburn Junior High School

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BALDWINSVILLE CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT

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CAZENOVIA CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT

May 19: Shark Tank Night

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CHITTENANGO CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT

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CLINTON CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT

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EAST SYRACUSE-MINOA CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT

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FAYETTEVILLE-MANLIUS CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT

May 25: Senior Art Show, Fayetteville-Manlius High School

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FULTON CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

May 10: STEAM Showcase

May 18: Art Show, Fulton Junior High School

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JAMESVILLE-DEWITT CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT

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JORDAN-ELBRIDGE CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT

May 19-20: Spring Play, Jordan-Elbridge High School

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LAFAYETTE CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT

May 12: RockFest

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LIVERPOOL CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT

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MARCELLUS CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT

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NEW HARTFORD CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT

May 13: District Art Show

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NORTH SYRACUSE CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT

May 18: Special Olympics, Cicero-North Syracuse High School

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ONEIDA CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT

May 10: Art Show

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ONONDAGA CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT

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PHOENIX CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT

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PULASKI ACADEMY AND CENTRAL SCHOOLS

May 24: MS/HS Piano Recital

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SOLVAY UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT

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SYRACUSE CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

May 13: All-City Art Exhibit

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VERNON VERONA SHERRILL CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT

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WEST GENESEE CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT

May 2: Trades Fair, Genesee High School

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WESTHILL CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT

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WHITESBORO CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT

May 10: District Art Show

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