Family Times March 2015 by Family Times

FREE

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

Reasons to set up a trust The loss of a special needs preschool

Studying Higher Education

Local colleges present options

SPECIAL NEEDS ISSUE

BONUS American Red Cross 3DayOK Coloring Book Inside!

Celebrate your

C H Il D’ s B I RT HDaY with the Chiefs at NBT Bank Stadium and get close to the action!

al l BI RT HDaY PaC KaG E s In CluD E : • 15 box reserved level tickets* (any combination children and adults) • Birthday Child to participate in an on-field game • Happy Birthday card signed by a Chiefs Player • Scooch or Pops will visit your Birthday party • Birthday Child name recognition on video board • Photo recognition on video board (must be submitted one week in advance) • Chiefs Swag Bag for the Birthday Child • Downloadable Chiefs Birthday party invitations • “Conductor Bucks” available in increments of $5 or $10 (can be used for any concession food and beverage. Each $5 or $10 voucher must be redeemed in full during one trip to the concession stand.) sCOOCH PaCKaGE - $195 (15) Hotdogs, (15) 12oz sodas or water and popcorn

POPs PaCKaGE - $315 (2) 16” pizzas, (15) 12 oz sodas or water and popcorn

(additional hotdogs $2 each)

(additional 16” pizzas available for $15)

(15) Ice Cream Sandwiches

*Additional adult tickets are $8 & children (12 & under) are $6. Additional party locations available based on availability (Luxury Suites, Hank Sauer Room, Patios & Terraces)

For information or to book your party call 474-7833 or contact Arnold Malloy amalloy@syracusechiefs.com

Family Times March 2015

FAMILY TIMES • MARCH 2015

Special Needs Issue 4 • Editor’s Note 6 • Storytime

Some injuries lead to the doctor’s office—and some office visits lead to injuries.

10 • Loss of a School

The expected closure of another special needs preschool will narrow families’ options.

14 • Dollars, Sense

Estate planning can protect children with special needs.

16 • Family Matters

Receiving a diagnosis of a child’s disability can be a blow.

20 • Graduation Plans

Local colleges have programs for young people with special needs to continue learning after high school.

24 • Family Fun Calendar of Events Advertiser Index

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

Learn.....................................8-9 Party.........................................21 Summer Activity Planner...17-19 Backpack Directory................ 35

Family Times March 2015

family times The Parenting

Human Needs

Guide of Central New York

MARCH 2015

ISSUE NO. 155

PUBLISHER/OWNER Bill Brod EDITOR IN CHIEF Reid Sullivan editorial@familytimes.biz

ne of the many paradoxes of kids is that they are both unique individuals and at the same time much like other kids. And we parents, too, have our particular challenges as well as the qualities we share with other parents. I invite you to read Family Times’ seventh annual special needs issue with this in mind: There is something here for everyone, whether your child has a diagnosed special need or not. Deborah Cavanagh writes about some of the area college programs for young people with special needs on page 20. As she notes, “Learning does not need to end with high school.” Renee Gadoua, meanwhile, examines the status of local special needs preschools in her story on page 10. With the impending closure of Children’s Village, a BOCES program at East Syracuse-Minoa’s Park Hill School, area families face fewer educational options for young children with special needs. In Family Matters, Cary and Tonja Rector examine how parents can handle the news of a child’s diagnosis and adjust to their new reality (page 16). And guest columnist Timothy Crisafulli talks about the importance of estate planning, especially when a child has special needs (page 14). As he points out, every parent should have an estate plan. Reading his column might get you started on this necessary task. Finally, Storytime is back, with Linda Lowen recounting some eventful visits to the offices of health care professionals (page 6).

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Michelle Bowers (Ext. 114) MBowers@syracusenewtimes.com MANAGING EDITOR Bill DeLapp PHOTOGRAPHY EDITOR Michael Davis CIRCULATION DIRECTOR Tom Tartaro (Ext. 134) CREATIVE SERVICES MANAGER Caitlin O’Donnell DESIGNER Meaghan Arbital DIGITAL MEDIA MANAGER Ty Marshal (ext. 144) CONTRIBUTORS Deborah Cavanagh,Tammy DiDomenico, Aaron Gifford, Eileen Gilligan, Emma Kress, Linda Lowen, Cary Rector, Tonja Rector, Maggie Lamond Simone, Laura Livingston Snyder, Chris Xaver ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS Advertising Sales Manager Jessica Luisi (ext. 139) JLuisi@syracusenewtimes.com Lesli Mitchell (ext. 140) LMitchell@syracusenewtimes.com Lija Spoor (ext. 111) LijaSpoor@syracusenewtimes.com Joseph Taranto (ext. 115) JTaranto@syracusenewtimes.com

Reid Sullivan Editor in Chief

On the cover: Amanda, age 17, gets into the mindset of a college student at the Manlius Public Library. Inside: Amanda sits with her mother, Deborah Cavanagh, who wrote this month’s story on college experiences for young people with special needs (page 20). Deborah has been a Family Times contributor since 2011.

Michael Davis Photo Caitlin O’Donnell design

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

Subscribe to Family Times by mail and receive 12 issues for only $20. Call (315) 472-4669 to order. Family Times 1415 W. Genesee Street, Syracuse, NY 13204 (315) 472-4669 fax (315) 422-1721 www.familytimes.biz

PARENTING MEDIA ASSOCIATION

2014 Bronze 2014 Silver Award Winner Award Winner Editorial Awards Competition

Advertising deadline for April is March 12. Calendar deadline for April is March 6 4

Family Times March 2015

PARENTING MEDIA ASSOCIATION

Design Awards Competition

Family Times March 2015

DEJAN DUNDJERSKI | THINKSTOCK PHOTO

Kicking and Yelling On the front lines of health care | BY LINDA LOWEN

arate builds character and increases self-esteem. That’s what they told me when I enrolled my timid 7-year-old at White Dragon Martial Arts. I dutifully took Jaye three times a week, believing it would help her become more assertive. It did. Maybe too much, I thought as I stood outside the examination room at the doctor’s office, listening to my daughter unleashing her karate moves. During each lesson, the karate instructors had been adamant: “Don’t ever attempt these moves outside of class unless you’re threatened with serious physical danger and need to protect yourself.” See where this is headed? Shots, blood tests, peeing in a cup, gagging on a tongue depressor—to an adult, this is standard operating procedure. To a kid, it’s torture. When it happens during a routine visit to a pediatrician or family physician, familiar faces and comfortable settings ease most anxieties. But unknown individuals equal stranger danger. That’s how Jaye perceived the situation when her chronic stomach aches led us to a pediatric gastroenterologist. On the very first visit, the specialist ordered a test that required threading a tube into my child’s nostril, down her throat 6

Family Times March 2015

and into her stomach. I recoiled. “But aren’t you going to sedate her? And numb her first?”

followed. Her second kick had landed accurately. I contemplated calling my insurance company.

The nurse grabbed my elbow and directed me toward the door. “Don’t worry. She’s going to be fine. It’s been our experience that parents only heighten a child’s fear of the procedure. Why don’t you have a seat outside?” Her python grip told me this was not a request.

This isn’t like us. Really. In most situations, my family is peace-loving and kind, but we get a little tense when blood, pain and sharp objects enter the picture.

I was terrified, and for good reason. Once, I’d had a nasogastric tube inserted under general anesthesia; I was awake and alert when a nurse yanked it out. Never again. Kill me now. Standing there in the hallway, I could hear Jaye crying, “No! No! Please don’t do that! It hurts!” That did it. I hurled myself against the locked door. On the other side, there was a shout—not of fear but determination, an eardrum-busting “Aiii-eee!” that I knew well. Jaye had assumed the first position of the kata, the self-defense technique she’d learned from “Sensei Steve,” who headed up the karate school. She’d earned a belt for her prowess in performing this set of precise, powerful movements, so I knew someone was about to get kicked. The first crash told me Jaye had connected with the examination table. A grunt

My younger daughter, Em, a fan of Twizzlers and gummies but not of dentists, never got out of the chair without at least one filling. She’d flail, kick and chomp unless she saw in advance what stickers and toys she’d get for good behavior. The staff knew to place the goodie basket within her field of vision if they wanted to keep all 10 fingers. When a new family with three kids moved in across the street and asked me who my dentist was, I happily gave his name. Then I overheard Em telling Cindy the gruesome details of her previous visits. Cindy must have filled her two brothers in because—as I learned during my next checkup—as bad as my daughters were, those kids were worse. Halfway through my semi-annual cleaning, the hygienist paused. Normally smiling and good-natured, Bonnie wore an unpleasant expression. “Are you the one who referred the Lawrence family to this practice?” Her tone scared me. A vi-

cious-looking dental device hovered over my open mouth. Honesty seemed prudent. I nodded. She sighed and rubbed her jaw. “Aaron, their oldest, punched me in the face. At least I got my fingers out of his mouth before he clamped down.” I stopped giving families with children referrals to my doctors or dentists. I carried enough guilt over my own girls’ behavior to avoid additional burdens of conscience. Although the roundhouse-kick episode was extreme, no visit to the doctor was ever stress-free. My daughters dreaded the annual checkup and asked every year if they’d be getting a shot. When Jaye found out she’d completed her childhood immunization schedule, she grinned like a Super Bowl winner headed to Disney World. “I never have to have another shot again!” I bit my tongue. Oh, kiddo, I hate to tell you, but adulthood throws plenty of painful curve balls. “You might feel a little pinch” is the least of it. Childbirth, c-sections, IVs, mammograms, MRIs, colonoscopies, surgeries, stitches, sutures, chemotherapy—we may measure health care in dollars and cents, but our necessary share of discomfort and even suffering is the cost of wellness. Jaye will have to navigate her own medical crises without me; and a fierce battle cry isn’t quite as acceptable for adults as it is for kids. But if that’s what it takes for her to survive, then I say let ’er rip. Linda Lowen teaches at the Downtown Writer’s Center and is co-producer and co-host of Take Care, a health and wellness radio show on WRVO. She lives in Syracuse with her husband and two college-age daughters, who go by Jaye and Em in her writing.

Canterbury Stables CAZENOVIA, NEW YORK

Pony Camp Weekly Sessions July & August

English & Dressage Riding, Lessons, Boarding & Training

GRAND OPENING SPRING 2015 NOW HIRING! Located in Chittenango, Yellow Brick Road Casino is looking for enthusiastic, energetic, outgoing people to join our team! Don’t wait... APPLY NOW!

Now Hiring for 250 full-time and part-time positions!

• Slots • Bingo • Guest Services • Restaurants & Bars • Security • Facilities & Maintenance

Tuesday - Thursday 9:00 1:00pm Individual daily riding instruction by our full-time professional trainers. Different equestrian topics each week. Only 6 students per class 315-440-2244 for a tour or information

Apply online at YELLOWBRICKROADCASINO.COM 700 WEST GENESEE STREET, CHITTENANGO, NEW YORK 13037

4786 Roberts Rd. • canterburystablesny.com Family Times March 2015

Learn

Inspiring your child’s success Preschool old 3 yrs – 5 yrs Infant & toddler care 6 wks – 36 mths • NYS approved curriculum aligned with the common core and early learning guidelines • Clean, secured facility • Flexible enrollment from 7 am – 6 pm • Professional, nurturing teachers

2015-16 Early Bird Registration runs through March 13

• SMART boards in pre-K classrooms • Field trips, music programs and more! • Schedule a tour to reserve your child’s spot! 5655 Thompson Road • DeWitt 315-445-2040 x120 • www.jccsyr.org

SyracuSe academy of Science GradeS K-12

grades K-12 apply at www.sascs.org

excellence in education. How To Apply? Complete our online application at www.sascs.org or call (315) 428-8997 8

Family Times March 2015

• Tuition-Free • Individual Attention • A Small Setting • One-on-One College Guidance 1001 Park Ave., Syracuse, NY 13204 • (315) 428-8997 Fax: (315) 428-9109 • www.sascs.org

Open House

r br e a d e g n Ho Gi

Saturday, March 14th • 10am - 12(noon)

3, 4- and 5-year-old preschool programs

We nurture your child’s potential and help develop skills for a happy, healthy, successful life.

Preschool & Childcare Center

We’ve Moved!

Math. Reading.

Confidence.

Kumon helps children succeed in the classroom and in life. For catching up to grade level, discovering new levels of challenge, or reaching virtually any other academic goal, the Kumon Math and Reading Programs are individualized to every student’s needs. Now’s the time for Kumon.

Schedule a free placement test now at

Kumon Math & Reading Center of Dewitt 4463 East Genesee St., Dewitt, NY 13214

315.928.3700 • kumon.com/dewitt

3020 Court Street (Formerly St. Daniel’s School)

Syracuse • 471-4198

Terra Science and Education invites high school students to a summer of service.

Leadership Volunteer in the morning, learn local history in the afternoon and engage in dialogue with a diverse group of students.

Watch your business grow! Advertise in Family Times. To advertise, call your sales representative or Michelle Bowers at 422-7011 ext.114, mbowers@ syracusenewtimes.com

Sew Syracuse

Sewing Lessons Kids & Adults, private or small group sewing lessons

sewsyracuse@gmail.com Applications now available online

315-427-1994 Family Times March 2015

Learn

‘A Huge Loss’

Another special needs preschool is slated to close | RENÉE K. GADOUA

y midyear, most of Onondaga County’s 650 spots at on-site educational programs for preschoolers with special needs are full, and some programs have waiting lists. When Children’s Village, an Onondaga-Cortland-Madison BOCES program at East Syracuse-Minoa’s Park Hill School, closes June 30, the waiting lists may get a little longer. Parents and guardians learned of the closure in October in a letter from Carol Feldmeier, Park Hill principal. Parents started a Facebook page in the fall in hopes they could rally resources to save the program, and some parents and providers hoped another site would partner with BOCES. But Colleen Viggiano, assistant superintendent for student services at BOCES, confirmed in late January that BOCES was “not looking at partnering with other agencies.” 10

Family Times March 2015

Children’s Village currently serves 56 students ages 3 to 5 with disabilities including speech/language delays, behavior concerns, autism spectrum disorders, physical disabilities, deafness and overall developmental delays.

“We’re working with families to identify the best options,” Viggiano said. “We haven’t identified that yet. (Programs for children with hearing disabilities) has been a specialty of ours, so we’re committed to finding the best place for those students.”

BOCES can no longer afford to run the program, Viggiano said. “Unfortunately it was an inadequate funding stream,” she said. The New York State Education Department has not increased the rate for OCM BOCES since the 2010-2011 school year, BOCES said in an October blog posting.

Children’s Village began operating at the ES-M school in 2006. Before that, BOCES rented space at Bishop Grimes High School for a preschool program.

Of the 56 students in the program, 23 to 25 are 3-year-olds, and BOCES will work with each family to find an appropriate preschool program, Viggiano said. (The older students will be in kindergarten next year.)

The Syracuse area is rich in resources for children with special needs. But the community needs more programs and more trained experts, said Maria Gill, interim director of Mid-State Early Childhood Direction Center, a Syracuse organization that provides resources to families and professionals working with children.

Six of the 3-year-olds at Children’s Village have some level of deafness.

“Having the students have typical role models was the reason we partnered with Park Hill in the first place,” Viggiano said. “That really is the best model.”

MICHAEL DAVIS PHOTO

Brayden Titus, age 4, attends Children’s Village, a special needs preschool slated to close June 30. He’s pictured with his mother, Alicia, baby sister, Sierra, and father, Jared.

82 Annual

TigriS Shrine

CirCuS

Shows:

Friday, April 3rd • 10am, 2:30pm, 7pm Saturday, April 4th • 10am, 2:30pm, 7pm

Tickets:

Advance sale tickets: $13 each (All ages) $15 day of show There will be no “reserved Seating” available. (first come, first served)

Purchase Advance Sale tickets at www.TigrisShrineCircus.com

Scan for info!

The two box offices located at the “Toyota Coliseum” will be open one hour before each performance for the sale of general admission tickets at $15.00 each. Advanced sale tickets can also be purchased at a designated store near you!

Free Parking!

Tigris Shrine Circus

135 State Fair Blvd., Syracuse Phone: (315) 478-0277 Fax: (315) 760-3067 Family Times March 2015

EARLY EDUCATION FACTS

Ten providers are approved by the New York State Education Department to provide preschool special education classrooms, and several of those providers have multiple locations.

MICHAEL DAVIS PHOTO

How many programs in Onondaga County offer on-site education for preschoolers with special needs?

Lauren Merola directs Parkside Children’s Center, aiming for “a culture of positivity.”

How many spaces are available? There are approximately 650 spaces for preschoolers with special needs: 230 are in full-day classes (more than 2 1/2 hours) and 420 are in half-day classes (2 1/2 hours or less). How many programs focus on one condition? None of the classes are specific to a single issue, although some may offer more specialized staff for children with hearing impairments or autism. How many preschool children in the county receive services? About 1,200 children may receive some special needs services at home, nursery school, daycare or other locations determined by the child’s caregivers. Who pays for these programs and services? These are federally mandated services, with no costs to families. All costs are paid up front by the child’s county of residence, and the state reimburses the county for 59.5 percent of all eligible costs. How much does Onondaga County spend? In 2013, the total gross expenses were $31.4 million and the local cost was $12.1 million. The majority of the balance comes from state aid. Smaller funding streams, such as Medicaid reimbursable expenses, account for less than 5 percent of the balance. —Renée K. Gadoua

Family Times March 2015

“There’s never enough,” Gill said. “We always run out of services and spaces when it gets to this time of year.” The community needs more special education teachers, speech therapists, occupational therapists and physical therapists. “The need is great and there’s not enough of them,” she said. The child care and educational communities are well-versed in helping families find appropriate programs for their children, Gill added. “Sometimes it’s obvious,” she said. “A child may not be speaking or may not be easy to understand. Sometimes it’s behavior or motor skills.” If no space remains in a program, the child may receive a different level of care, such as therapy at home, until a space opens. Once an evaluation determines whether a child should receive services and if those should be provided at home or at a program, parents need to decide what program best suits their priorities, said Ellen Barnes, director of Jowonio School in Syracuse. The inclusive preschool serves about 170 students, a third of whom have special needs. “You need to find the program that’s a fit for you philosophically,” Barnes said. “We really are a play-based program. We embed the academics in play. That’s what we think is developmentally appropriate. But families need to decide what they want. Typical kids and non-typical kids—whether they stutter, use a walker or a communication device—learn from each other, Barnes said. “Kids are going to take those values of kindness and a belief that everyone belongs with them to kindergarten,” she said. “We have kids who aren’t walking. We have kids who aren’t talking. We take each kid and try to figure it out.”

Parkside Children’s Center, a program of Arc of Onondaga, serves about 48 children with disabilities in three inclusive classes at Syracuse City School District’s Dr. King Elementary School and H.W. Smith Pre-K-8 School. Parkside moved its preschool program from the former Our Lady of Lourdes School in the Valley neighborhood to the two city schools this fall. (The former Catholic elementary school closed in 2002.) Lauren Merola has been director of Parkside for three years and has worked for Arc for 10 years. When she meets with parents, Merola stresses Parkside’s partnership with the Syracuse City School District and its Nurtured Heart Approach, a relationship-based approach to teaching that aims to help children succeed through positive interactions. “One of the most important things we can do is create a culture of positivity,” Merola said. “The aim is for children to awaken to inner wealth and greatness. It’s a great philosophy in an early childhood classroom.” Merola agrees with Barnes on the value of inclusive classrooms for all children. “As a parent of a typical child, I wouldn’t want my child anywhere but a program like this,” she said. “It’s a model that benefits every child.” Jennifer and Dan Kelley enrolled their daughters, both of whom have Down syndrome, at Jowonio so they would benefit from an inclusive environment. Kaitlyn is now in third grade at Ed Smith Pre-K-8 School in the Syracuse City School District and Evelina is in kindergarten. The girls benefited from a school that treats all children equally, regardless of ability, said Jennifer Kelley, who works at Jowonio as a program manager and grant writer.

“It’s a school for kids of all abilities,” she said. “No one stands out as this kid is more unique than the other, and the kids feel that as well. They just make it work for everyone, whether you’re in a wheelchair or can’t see or are running around.”

The Kallet Theater Presents

Alicia Titus was a fan of Children’s Village before she had children. She worked there as a long-term substitute teacher in 2006. When she and her husband, Jared, bought a home, they chose one in East Syracuse to be near Park Hill Elementary. Her 4-year-old son, Brayden, began attending Children’s Village when he was 1. Brayden receives physical and occupational therapy to improve his large motor skills and his fine motor skills. “We hope that with these services he will catch up to his peers and enter kindergarten with the skills and confidence he will need to succeed,” Titus said. She had hoped her 6-month-old daughter, Sierra, would follow in her brother’s footsteps and attend Children’s Village. Since October, she’s been talking with other parents concerned about its closure. She was disappointed to hear the closure was definite. “Our son is going to kindergarten next year, so it won’t affect us,” she said. “Hopefully our daughter won’t need any special services. But I’m sad to hear that. It’s a huge loss for the teachers and the kids.” Renée K. Gadoua is a freelance writer and editor who lives in Manlius. Follow her on Twitter @ReneeKGadoua.

March 14, 2015 Doors: 7:00pm | Show begins: 8:00pm $18 for Adults | $12 for Students or Seniors (60+) *Advance purchase price, day-of pricing may differ • Sales tax and fees additional

Order tickets online at

kallettheater.com or call (315)298-0007

K A L L E T T H E AT E R A N D C O N F E R E N C E C E N T E R

4842 N. Jefferson Street | Pulaski, NY 13142

Colonial

Laundromat Family owned & operated since 1983

Immaculately Clean Laundromats! Your Big Quilts & Blankets Are No Problem! Huge 75-lb. Capacity Washers Save Time & Money

Open 24 HOurs a day fOr yOur cOnvenience! Coloniallaundromats.Com Family Times March 2015

Dollars, SENSE

The Value of a Trust

Estate planning can protect children with special needs | BY TIMOTHY CRISAFULLI

very parent should have an estate plan. Without one, courts determine who will care for surviving children. Assets, no matter how significant, may pass to unintended people. Beneficiaries who inherit money at too young an age risk losing it because they are not yet emotionally or financially savvy enough to manage it. In families with children with special needs, the stakes are higher. If a person with special needs inherits assets directly, government benefits may be at risk. For example, if a person receives a resource-based benefit, one that is available only if his or her income and assets are low enough, then receiving an inheritance may mean losing that benefit. So a lack of a proper estate planning can leave children and other beneficiaries vulnerable to losing assets and resource-based government benefits. Trusts to the Rescue A trust may be used to protect assets, to ensure that they are managed by a trustee (often a family member or friend), and to preserve resource-based government benefits. A parent, grandparent or other individual may create a trust during his or her lifetime (a “lifetime trust”). Alternatively, he or she may insert a trust into his or her last will and testament that springs into existence upon the person’s passing (a “testamentary trust”). Trusts are not for just wealthy people. They are appropriate whenever a parent, grandparent, guardian or other individual wants to give assets to someone who should not have direct control over those assets. There are many different types of trusts designed to accomplish different goals. One type is a supplemental needs trust (sometimes referred to as a special needs trust), also known as an SNT. These are typically used when a beneficiary has spe14

Family Times March 2015

cial needs that currently or may someday qualify him or her for resource-based government benefits. By transferring the beneficiary’s inheritance into an SNT, the assets remain available for the beneficiary. However, the inheritance typically does not disrupt the beneficiary’s resource-based government benefits. Upon the beneficiary’s eventual passing, whatever remains in the SNT may pass to other beneficiaries and need not be turned over to the state. For example, if a parent leaves an inheritance directly to a child with special needs, then the child may lose his or her resource-based benefits because he or she suddenly has too much money. By contrast, if the parent leaves the inheritance to the child in an SNT, then the money could be available to the child but generally would not cause the resource-based benefit to be lost. Upon the child’s eventual passing, whatever remains in the SNT could pass to whomever the parent chooses, including other children. Life Insurance, 401(k)s and IRAs Typically, life insurance, 401(k)s and individual retirement plans pass directly to the beneficiaries named on a beneficiary designation form. They usually do not pass through an individual’s last will and testament. Many people fail to keep their beneficiary designations up to date. Additionally, simple beneficiary designation forms often invite the designation of an individual and not a trust. All families, and particularly those with children with special needs, should consider designating a trust to receive such assets. In this way, life insurance proceeds and retirement plans can be better protected for the intended beneficiary. If such assets pass into an SNT rather than directly to an individual with special needs who receives resource-based benefits, then inheriting such assets will

generally not cause the loss of those benefits. Additionally, it may be possible to achieve a far longer period of tax-deferred growth than would be possible under other circumstances. Fixing a Problematic Inheritance Whether due to poor planning or no planning, beneficiaries with special needs who are receiving resource-based government benefits sometimes inherit money, life insurance, IRAs or other assets directly in their own names. Although this would generally result in the loss of resource-based benefits, it is sometimes possible to ask a court to funnel the assets into an SNT. This is good for the beneficiary because he or she may be able to keep his or her resource-based benefits in place while also having the assets in the SNT available to him or her. Even if a court allows this, however, whatever remains in the SNT upon the beneficiary’s eventual passing may need to be transferred to the state to reimburse it for benefits paid out to the beneficiary during his or her lifetime. Still, redirecting an inheritance into an SNT is often worthwhile because it makes more assets available for the beneficiary with special needs during his or her lifetime. Parents, grandparents, guardians and others who want to leave assets to children should consider using trusts. At the very least, trusts can prevent an inheritance from passing to individuals who are too young and inexperienced to handle money. In instances where an inheritance would pass to an individual with special needs, using an SNT may preserve resource-based benefits while keeping the inheritance available to the beneficiary. Timothy Crisafulli is an attorney at Crisafulli Gorman, P.C. He focuses his practice on trusts and estates, elder law and taxation. He and his wife, Kelly, live in Fayetteville with their three children.

THINKSTOCK PHOTOS

Weiss, Savedoff & Ciccone Doctors of Optometry, PC Excellence in professional vision care services Quality ophthalmic materials

Does your child have delayed vision skills?

By utilizing vision therapy, our doctors can often correct childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s visual deficits that may be contributing to reading or other academic disorders. Other common vision disorders such as amblyopia (lazy eye) and strabismus (crossed eye) can often be successfully treated with vision therapy. Vision therapy can be rehabilitative in the case of head trauma, concussion, stroke, or brain injury. In these cases, patients can be trained in the redevelopment of lost vision skills.

www.eye-care1.com 60 Presidential Plaza, Madison Tower, Syracuse, (315) 472-4594 8116 Cazenovia Road, Seven Pines Bldg #7, Manlius, (315) 682-2835

Family Times March 2015

THINKSTOCK PHOTOS

LOCAL RESOURCES Exceptional Family Resources EFR partners with individuals with disabilities and their families, providing services, information, advocacy and other supports to enhance lives and foster community acceptance. www. contactefr.org The Kelberman Center The center provides programs and services for children and adults with autism spectrum disorders and their families. Specialized staff is highly trained to meet the needs of individuals with ASD and includes a pediatric neuropsychologist, psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers and educational and behavior specialists. www.kelbermancenter.org Children’s Therapy Network The network offers comprehensive therapy and educational services to children with special needs. Services are provided in a natural setting comfortable to the child and the caretaker. www.childrenstherapynetwork.com

Family Times March 2015

Life Changes

Finding out about a child’s disability can be a blow BY CARY AND TONJA RECTOR

hen parents learn their child has a disability, life changes. Parents report a variety of emotions, including profound sadness, anxiety and uncertainty. Many say they were devastated by the news and remember little about the days following the diagnosis.

feelings can resurface as you go through different stages with your child. Talking with trusted family and friends is important for processing and understanding. Family members will each experience their own emotional reaction. Grandparents feel sadness for both their grandchild and the pain their child is experiencing. Siblings can feel jealous of the extra attention a child with special needs requires. Keep in mind each person has his or her own unique experience and emotional reaction.

Life can become centered on consultations with specialists, professional services, and other activities and appointments relating to the child’s disability. The responsibility of caring for a child with a disability can be exhausting. Parents of children with special needs often report fatigue and feelings of depression. Facing the loss of what they imagined their child’s future would be, parents may feel emotionally down and isolated. For the parent, caring for yourself is as important as caring for your child. Below are a few suggestions.

Seek information and services. Familiarize yourself with the terminology of your child’s disability. Parents feel more confident in discussions with professionals if they are familiar with the lingo. Understanding what the doctor means when she says “a protracted course of development” is important. Find out what professionals, programs and groups are in your area or available online.

Understand that strong emotions are normal. Feelings of anger, disappointment, fear and guilt are typical upon learning your child has a disability. Those

In addition to professional services, many areas offer parent groups. Some are specific to parents of a child with a certain disability while others are more general.

Make room for other caregivers. You know your child best, but that doesn’t mean others can’t handle his or her care. Take the time to train other caregivers about your child’s required needs. Having other caregivers gives you and your child a break from each other and allows him or her to develop other relationships. Nurture your adult relationships. Part of taking care of yourself is maintaining your relationships, both personal and professional. Caring for a special needs child can become all encompassing. It’s important to take some time to foster the parts of your life that are not about being a parent. Invite a friend over for coffee and a chat after the kids are in bed. Attend a professional luncheon, lecture or meeting. Accept help. As simple as it sounds, accepting help from friends and family can sometimes be difficult. You hear “let me know if there’s anything I can do to help.” “Yeah, OK,” you say but never follow up on the offer. Accepting help from other people is important to manage your stress level and maintain emotional health. Think about what things would make your life just a little easier. Help transporting kids to and from activities? Many parents are glad to help with driving children to shared activities. Dog walking? Some ready-to-heat dinners in the freezer? Lawn mowing? Chances are you have family members or neighbors who would be happy to oblige. Help with little things, like picking up the dry cleaning, can remove some stress. People want to help but don’t know what to do. Use your support system and ask for assistance. As the parent of a child with a disability, you may feel overwhelmed at times by the responsibilities and your own emotions. Many resources are available including professional services, family and friends, other parents of children with disabilities and online support groups. Accessing these support networks is critical to maintaining a healthy family life. Cary and Tonja Rector are married and live with their son in Manlius. Cary is a licensed mental health counselor and Tonja is a licensed marriage and family therapist.

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

arts Summer

Institute

Film Theatre Strings Musical Theatre

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

AR T

Summer Activity Planner

Parent groups offer a wealth of support and information from other parents. The growth of the Internet means there are forums and online support groups for all kinds of situations. Accessing available resources helps parents feel less isolated and provides needed assistance.

CAMP!

Keep your child’s imagination active this summer!

Session I: July 27 - 31 Session II: August 3 - 7 Half Day & Full Day Sessions Limited scholarships available!

everson.org 401 Harrison St., Syracuse, (315) 474 6064

ST. MARGARET’S SUMMER CAMP 2015 Join us for a summer you will never forget!

AROUND THE WORLD IN 35 DAYS! Examples of Weekly Camp Themes Week #1 June 29-July 3 “Passports Here We Come” Week # 2 July 6-10 “Old Glory Days in the U.S.A.” Week #3 July 13-17 “Buenos Dias Off to Spain” Week #4 July 20-24 “Booted Out To Italy” Week # 5 July 27-31 “Follow the China Road” Week # 6 Aug. 3–7 How Tall is the Eiffel Tower?” Week # 7 Aug. 10–14 “Top of the Morning to You from Ireland”

Call for details 455-5791

Daily Activities include weekly themed activities, sports, outdoor games, arts-n-crafts, swimming & more! Campers will also go on weekly field trips. Summer Camp Hours : 9am-3pm Free Extended Hours: 7-9am & 3-5:30pm Breakfast, Lunch & Snack included $40.00 Registration Fee Due with Registration Papers

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

Family Times March 2015

Summer Activity Planner

North Syracuse Central School District

Early Education Program Now enrolling our 6 we e & 2015/16 School Year k Summer Sc hool full service riding facility

Summer Pony Day Camp, Lessons & Horse Showing beginners to advanced students of all ages 2096 Berwyn Rd Lafayette, NY (315) 677-3643 Cell: 315-256-8252 trilliumstablesinc.com

• 2, 3 and 5 day options • Focus on Kindergarten readiness skills & social emotional development • Healthy snack served daily • Indoor & Outdoor motor areas • Integrated Preschool for 3 & 4 year olds • Full & Half day classes available • Before & After school options

NYS certified Teachers & Teaching Assistants. On-site RN & LPN staff

205 S. Main St., N. Syracuse • 218-2222 • www.nscsd.org/main.cfm

Pony Pal Summer Camp: July 14-17 August 11-14 9am-2pm

Instruction and fun in all areas of horsemanship. Daily individual riding lesson. *extended hours are available if requested

For more info:

315-638-1488 or 315-345-2189

Hunter/Jumper Riding Lessons (beginner to advanced)

Galemont Farm Warners, NY (only minutes from the thruway or 690)

Family Times March 2015

Boarding & Training

2015 Summer Camps

Stop Motion Animation

A Pirate’s Quest

Comic Creator

Pocket Brick Monsters

Jr. Robotics Mining & Crafting

Emmet’s World Amusement Parks

Full day options are now available! Learn more and Enroll online

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

Camps are designed for children ages 5+

Summer Activity Planner

EXPLORE CONNECT INSPIRE Summer Day Camps EXPLORE: At YMCA Summer Day Camps, children and teens can test their limits and reach their potential in a safe environment. Each camp is unique, with offerings that include art, games, swimming, sports, field trips, archery, rock climbing and horseback riding. We have camps for kids aged 2 to16. CONNECT: Our camps bring kids together around the activities they love. They’ll make new friends and lasting memories. INSPIRE: Summer is for growing. Our camps keep your child’s mind and body active while nurturing the Y’s core values: caring, honesty, respect and t responsibility. et us a

Me amily the F s Time Fair! Camp 1

pril 1 10-2 A airgrounds F e t Sta

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

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

Graduation Plans Students with special needs also must map out their futures | BY DEBORAH CAVANAGH

tudents with special needs may not have conventional college aspirations, but they, too, get a taste of the anticipation, elation and devastation at this time of year as their typical classmates consider the next phase of their lives.

High school hallways are abuzz as seniors rejoice over their college acceptance notifications. Parents of juniors are posting Facebook pictures of recruitment trips and campus tours. Guidance counselors are scheduling meetings to match students’ strengths and areas of interest with programs. By law, students receiving special education services are eligible to remain in school until the year they turn 21. This allows for extended participation in the academic and social structure of school. Some parents opt to keep their child in school the allotted time, while others choose to have their son or daughter graduate with the student’s typical 12th-grade peers. Eventually all students take that next step toward maturity. Options depend upon one’s status at graduation. If the student exits high school with a diploma, she is eligible for matriculated college programs depending on her interests and grades. If she graduates with one of the completion certificates, she might transition directly to a job. Some young people with special needs will not graduate with a diploma but are interested in continuing their education with college experiences and classes. They have taken part in class projects, concerts, field trips and moving-up ceremonies. They view college as the next phase in their development. The first step parents and caregivers need to take is to create a transition plan, preferably while their student is in high school. Transition planning should begin at age 14 with fine tuning by families, educators and Medicaid service coordinators (MSCs) as the

Family Times March 2015

student progresses. Collaboration between educational staff and MSCs is critical. Focus should be on strengths and interests exhibited while still in high school. Are there electives in their area of interest? Can they job train at a work site that showcases skills while allowing for growth? Tweaking should be done year to year given opportunities in the community and at school. If done properly, the student and his team should be on the same page regarding post-secondary school choice and placement. The student will know if he is interested in a day habilitation program, which provides assistance with self-help, socialization and job skills in a segregated setting. Or maybe he is leaning toward “self direction,” which supports community inclusion by allowing participants, along with their circle of support, to create an individualized program that encompasses their goals, pursuits and desires for the future. Or he may want some combination of the two. Programs are funded through the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities Medicaid Waiver program. Parents who wish to find out if their student is eligible to receive services through the Medicaid waiver program can contact local service provider agencies such as AccessCNY, Advocates Inc. and Arise Inc., speak to their special education coordinator, or visit the agencies’ websites. In Syracuse, Onondaga Community College and Syracuse University offer opportunities for students with special needs to attend classes and experience, at different levels, college life.

Party Planner

INDOOR, ELECTRIC GO KART RACING The Ultimate Indoor Experience Locations in Rochester & Buffalo

Adult & Junior Karts (Must be 48” tall) Birthday Parties & Corporate Events Gift Certificates Available for Purchase Kart Speeds Up to 45mph Video Games & Sports Memorabilia

SFT

9090 Destiny USA Drive Syracuse, NY 13204 315-423-RACE (7223) This location is an independently operated franchise owned by Destiny Raceway, LLC

SUPerheroeS March 13th | 5-8pm

Superman & Wonder Woman will visit KidzClub. Visit our website for tickets and registration information.

MoM’S MorNiNg oUt Mondays & Wednesdays 9am - Noon We will entertain your children while you take care of you! KidzClub is closed to the public during these times. $10 per hour or $25 for all three hours. Registration required due to limited spots. Call or visit website for info.

SNAP N’ PLAy March 15 | 9:30am - 2:30pm March 16th & 17th | 4-8pm th

Easter photos without the boring wait! Your kids play while waiting their turn to go in, and then have their photos taken with LIVE animals!

eASter eggS-trAvAgANzA

Tuesday, March 31st 10am-4pm

Visit website for more info & to purchase tickets.

kidzclubfun.com • (315) 695-2211• 219 Rt. 57, Phoenix

Supersized candy free egg hunt!

MICHAEL DAVIS PHOTOS

Amy Mech, director for College Living at OCC.

RESOURCES Onondaga Community College Disability Services. 498-2245. Onondaga Community College’s College for Living. 498-6022. Syracuse University’s InclusiveU. 443-4058. sebuckho@syr.edu. LeMoyne College, Disability Support Services. 445-4525. www.purdyrg@lemoyne.edu. Cazenovia College Office of Special Services. 655-7308. Office for People With Developmental Disabilities. www.opwdd.ny.gov. New York State Education Department. www.nysed.gov. AccessCNY. 455-7591. www.enablecny.org. Advocates Inc. 469-9931. www.advocatesincorporated.org. Arise. 472-3171. www.ariseinc.org.

Family Times March 2015

OCC currently has three options. Foundations is a three-year program for recent graduates or students who have aged out of high school. A day habilitation program consisting of full-time classes, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., five days a week, Foundations’ goal is to prepare the student for work or independent living within the community. Participants take classes in health and physical wellness, money management, interpersonal relationships and other life skills. The student will need to plan for adult life after her three years in Foundations ends.

“The New Visions program gives students of all ages with intellectual disabilities the opportunity to go to college just like their siblings, family and friends,” says Amy Mech, director for College Living at OCC. “They benefit from being away from home and trying new things. Many come back year after year, as do the staff that work with them for the week.” This year Syracuse University piloted InclusiveU through the Lawrence B. Taishoff Center for Inclusive Higher Education and in conjunction with SU’s University College. The program allows students to take five classes in a concentrated area over four years. Students choose classes that are of interest to them. They also learn self-advocacy skills, how to work with disability services, and about their rights as a student on a college campus. InclusiveU students are able to participate in clubs and activities that are open to the student body. A certificate from University College is awarded when their coursework is complete. Assistance is given with coordination of Medicaid services and the participants’ selfdirected plan to provide one-to-one support if needed, as well as registering, scheduling, modifications within classes and coordination with professors.

OCC also offers College for Living evening and weekend classes. These are two-hour classes that run for 10 weeks each semester. Open to anyone looking to enroll, these classes are inclusive and offer topics such as crafting, basic sign language and aerobics. OCC has also begun offering classes during the day each semester for those students on the Medicaid waiver who do not attend a day program and are not working. They are supplemental day habilitation classes that focus on independence and relationship skills. OCC’s New Visions Summer Program is a weeklong “full-time” college experience for students with intellectual disabilities. It is funded as a day habilitation program through the state Office for People with Developmental Disabilities. Student must be at least 20 years old (preferably 21) and on the Medicaid waiver. Students live on campus, sleep in air-conditioned residence halls, and integrate with other summer school students. Classes are provided during the day, with social activities in the evenings. After a week of course work, the experience culminates with a prom and graduation ceremony.

Bud Buckhout, director of SU’s InclusiveU.

On sale now! “Syracuse University is dedicated to the creation of opportunities in higher education for students with intellectual disabilities, and to see those students achieve their higher educational goals,” says Bud Buckout, associate director of the Taishoff Center and director of InclusiveU. “We want them not just to have an ‘experience’ of higher education but to be an active participant and included in the campus community.”

Learning does not need to end with high school. Options are available to students with special needs. College is not just about where you go and what you learn, it is about the connections you make and the experience you gain. The key is for families to work with their student’s educators and support agencies to create a plan embracing the present and looking toward the future. Deborah Cavanagh lives in Manlius with her husband and two children. She has written for local organizations supporting children and adults with special needs.

Keep in mind that most colleges and universities allow students to audit, or possibly take for credit, certain classes with the professor’s approval. The caregiver or student needs to contact the disability service coordinator at the chosen institution. Depending on the situation, the participant could either pay privately or use self-direction funds through the individual’s Medicaid waiver.

become a favorite friend at sesamestreetlive.com

April 10–12

Landmark Theatre

Landmark Box Office 800.745.3000 ticketmaster.com

The Fabric Mill’s

SPRING SALE March 23rd – April 4th

20% OFF all in-stock fabrics, trims & pillow forms!

SAVE $100*

OR MORE WITH REBATES on qualifying purchases of Hunter Douglas window fashions

Vignette® Modern Roman Shades

Energy efﬁciency is looking smart. Vignette® Architella® Modern Roman Shades are designed for outstanding energy savings, as well as beauty. Ask for details.

The Fabric Mill

5900 East Seneca Turnpike Jamesville, NY 13078 Monday-Friday 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM 315-492-0336 www.thefabricmillcny.com *Manufacturer’s mail-in rebate offer valid for qualifying purchases made 2/1/15 – 4/25/15 from participating dealers in the U.S. only. Rebate will be issued in the form of a prepaid reward card and mailed within 6 weeks of rebate claim receipt. Funds do not expire. Subject to applicable law, a $2.00 monthly fee will be assessed against card balance 7 months after card issuance and each month thereafter. Additional limitations may apply. Ask participating dealer for details and rebate form. © 2015 Hunter Douglas. All rights reserved. All trademarks used herein are the property of Hunter Douglas. WIN15MB4 48917

Family Times March 2015

Calendar

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

friday, feb. 27

Neverland Night. 5-8 p.m. Children can play

with the Tinker Fairy and Jake the Pirate, search for treasure, get a kid’s meal and more. KidzClub Indoor Play and Party Place, 219 Route 57, Phoenix. $18/child. Registration required: 695-2211. www.kidzclubfun.com.

Syracuse Crunch. 7 p.m. The American Hockey League team faces the Albany Devils. War Memorial, 800 S. State St., Syracuse. $16-$20, plus applicable processing fees. 473-4444.

Dear Mom. 8 p.m.; through March 8. In this play

based on real letters written by women to their mothers, a 45-year-old control freak and her feisty mother engage in an emotional, hilarious feud. Auburn Public Theater, 8 Exchange St., Auburn. $25/adults; $10/students. 253-6669. www.auburnpublictheater.org.

saturday, feb. 28

Winter Tracking for Kids. 10-11 a.m. Look in

the woods for tracks and, back indoors, craft your own track to take home. Baltimore Woods Nature Center, 4007 Bishop Hill Road, Marcellus. $8. Register: 673-1350.

Black History Month Storytime. 11 a.m.

Kids can enjoy a storytime and activities featuring the books I Am Rosa Parks and I Am Jackie Robinson.

Barnes & Noble, 3454 Erie Blvd. E., DeWitt. Free. 449-2948.

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

dren’s Theatre presents an original, interactive version of the fairy tale. Children in the audience can dress as a fairy tale character, attend the ball and help determine the action of the story. Spaghetti Warehouse, 689 N. Clinton St., Syracuse. $5. 449-3823.

Sun Party. 1-3 p.m. (Backup date March 1.) Ob-

serve the sun through specially filtered telescopes and see what it looks like up close. Baltimore Woods Nature Center, 4007 Bishop Hill Road, Marcellus. $8/individual; $25/family. Register: 673-1350.

Dear Mom. 2 & 8 p.m. See Feb. 27 listing. Syracuse Crunch. 7 p.m. Vs. Utica Comets. See Feb. 27 listing.

sunday, march 1

St. Baldrick’s Day. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Participants get their heads shaved for donations toward childhood cancer research. Kitty Hoynes Irish Pub & Restaurant, 301 W. Fayette St., Syracuse. Donations. 424-1974. JCC Purim Carnival. Noon-4 p.m. Games,

inflatable bounce houses, prizes, food and raffles for preschoolers and school-age children. Children are encouraged to wear costumes, a Purim custom. Jewish Community Center of Syracuse, 5655 Thompson Road, DeWitt. Free admission; charge for games and activities. 445-2360.

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

Tinker with recycled materials and electricity to make whirling, moving machines. Sciencenter, 601 First St., Ithaca. Free admission March 1. Regular admission: $8/adults; $7/seniors; $6/ages 3-17; free/under 3. (607) 272-0600.

Chemsations. 2 p.m.; also March 15. High

school students demonstrate chemical reactions with color changes, bubbles and light. Sciencenter. 601 First St., Ithaca. Free admission March 1. Regular admission: $8/adults; $7/seniors; $6/ages 3-17; free/under 3. (607) 272-0600.

Dear Mom. 3 p.m.; through March 8. See Feb. 27 listing.

monday, march 2

Toddler Storytime. 10:30 a.m.; also March 9,

23 & 30. Children from infants to age 4, accompanied by caregivers, can enjoy a sensory storytime that includes a chance to play musical instruments and learn shapes and colors. Hazard Branch Library, 1620 W. Genesee St., Syracuse. Free. 435-5326.

Read Across America Day. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. It’s

Dr. Seuss’ birthday! A library staffer will be reading books to celebrate. Maxwell Memorial Library, 14 Genesee St., Camillus. Free. 672-3661.

Celebrate Dr. Seuss’ Birthday. 2:30-4 p.m. Kids can celebrate by having a piece of cake and hearing a Dr. Seuss story. Betts Branch Library, 4862 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Free. 435-1940.

Yoga for Everyone. 6-7 p.m.; also March 9, 16, 23 & 30. Gentle yoga class. Betts Branch Library, 4862 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Free. 435-1940.

tuesday, march 3

Storytime. 10 a.m.; also March 10, 17, 24 & 31. Kids ages 1-5 can enjoy books, songs, dance and fun. White Branch Library, 763 Butternut St., Syracuse. Free. 435-3519.

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

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

Craftastic Critters. 4:30-5:30 p.m.; also

March 10, 17, 24 & 31. Kids ages 5-10 can drop in to make a different craft each week. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free. 637-6374.

Kids in Motion. 6:30 p.m. Preschoolers (ages

1-5) can take part in a video-guided activity that will get them moving, dancing and playing with maracas and other items. Onondaga Free Library, 4840 W. Seneca Turnpike, Syracuse. Free. Registration required: 492-1727. The Royal Ball, March 7 & 8

Family Times March 2015

THINKSTOCK PHOTOS

Calendar

Exclusive shops Luxury brands More than 170 specialty stores

Athleta LEGO Madewell (coming soon) Von Maur

I-90 to Exit 45, Victor

(585) 223-4420

www.eastviewmall.com

Design ∙ BuilD ∙ Maintain Creating Memories one backyard at a time! (315) 682-8167 | www.mflc.biz | 6329 N. Kirkville Rd., Kirkville, NY Family Times March 2015

Calendar

ason...

th ersary Se Our 20 Anniv

RpellSing stories O AUanTd H m co r ei th

Scott Simon NPR host & author Oct. 14, 2014

Daniel Handler Mark Bittman y Snicket author & food columnist Nov. 5, 2014

Ticket Information:

Lemon Series Dec. 15, 2014

Julia Alvarez of

Mary Roach

In the Time Butterflies Mar. 31, 2015

Bonk, Gulp, & Stiff Apr. 21, 2015

Erik Larson

The Devil in the White City May 19, 2015

Friends of the Central Library 2014-2015 Lecture Series

Box Office (315) 435-2121 www.foclsyracuse.org | (315) 435-1832

Available online at Ticketmaster.com 7:30 PM Performances at Crouse Hinds Theater–Mulroy Civic Center

Join our After School Enrichment Program! 3:00pm - 6:00pm monday-Friday Safe Hands on with Horses Horse Care Education Time for Homework Experienced Trainers

We come to you!

Fun arts & crafts

Canterbury

Transportation from Caz Schools!

At AtYour YourPlace Place Host an adultPottery potteryPainting painting getPottery together andisyour can be free. easypottery andPainting fun and fun is easy for all ages. It’s easy and relaxing! ages. for all We come to you!

Stables

CAZENOVIA

4786 Roberts Rd. canterburystablesny.com

315-440-2244 for Tours and Information

Call 430-1676 or e-mail molmills@aol. com

Choices of prices, programs. We projects, come and to you!

Choices Birthday of prices, projects, Parties and programs.

WIN Scout Meetings

Birthday Parties

Storytime for Preschoolers

Scout Meetings

Neighborhood Camp

Storytime forforPreschoolers Lots of programs adults, too!

Neighborhood Camp (315) 430-1676 Lots of programs for adults, too! Website under construction.

A backyard oasis this summer!

from Mueller Farms Landscaping Company (315) 430-1676 and the Syracuse New Times! Website under construction.

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

Empire Expo Center

NY State Fairgrounds, Syracuse

Where Central New York families go to plan their summer!

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

We take your to-do list and do it for you! No car? No problem! We’ll pick it up and deliver it. Hungry? Injured? Just plain lazy? Under the weather? No license? Services provided 24 hours a day:

Let’s talk about the opportunities!

(315) 472-4669 Activity Sponsor

Why do you deserve to win? Go to syracusenewtimes.com/backyard-oasis for details. 26

Family Times March 2015

Come see! Fort Rickey Discovery Zoo

S Y R A C U S E

Neighborhood Store Delivery Fast Food/Diner Delivery Small Package Delivery Royal Errands Service will run those errands so you don’t have to! Here to get you what you need when and where you need it! You name it. Call 315-414-1292 for rates & info.

St. Patrick’s Day Parade, March 14

Read, Sing, Play Storytime. 10 a.m.; also

March 11, 18 & 25. Toddlers and preschool-aged children can hear stories and take part in more fun. Paine Branch Library, 113 Nichols Ave., Syracuse. Free. 435-5442.

World Read Aloud Day. 2:30-4 p.m. Kids

listen to a story or read a story out loud to other children. World Read Aloud Day is celebrated by 1 million people from 80 different countries. Betts Branch Library, 4862 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Free. 435-1940.

Creative Discovery for Kids. 4:30-5:15 p.m.

Kids ages 5-10 can make seasonal crafts and hear stories. Maxwell Memorial Library, 14 Genesee St., Camillus. Registration preferred: 672-3661.

Teen Geeks. 6-8 p.m.; also March 14. Kids in

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

MICHAEL DAVIS PHOTOS

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

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

Multiple Moms Mingle. 6:30 p.m. Monthly

meeting of mothers and expectant mothers of multiples. Ruby Tuesday, 3220 Erie Blvd. E., DeWitt. Reserve if you wish to attend: multiplemomsmingle@gmail.com.

thursday, march 5

Storytime. 10:30 a.m.; also March 12, 19 & 26.

Betts Branch Library, 4862 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Free. 435-1940.

Yoga Storytime. 4:15-5 p.m.; also March 12.

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

Dear Mom. 7:30 p.m.; through March 8. See Feb. 27 listing.

friday, march 6

Monster Jam Truck Show Pit Party. 5-6:30 p.m. See March 7 listing.

Syracuse Crunch. 7 p.m. Vs. Portland Pirates. See Feb. 27 listing.

Dear Mom. 8 p.m.; through March 8. See Feb. 27 listing.

saturday, march 7

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

Representatives from preschools provide information about their programs. Plus, crafts in the café for babies, toddlers and preschoolers. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free. 637-6374.

A World of Puppets. 11 a.m. An exciting

performance with puppets and music. International Mask and Puppet Museum, 518 Prospect Ave., Syracuse. $10/adults; $6/children. Reserve: 476-0466.

Reading to Rover. 11 a.m.-noon. Kids ages 6-10 can read a story to a dog from Paws of CNY; five 10-minute sessions. Onondaga Free Library, 4840 W. Seneca Turnpike, Syracuse. Free. Registration required: 492-1727.

The Royal Ball. 11 a.m.-4 p.m.; also March 8.

Come in costume and be transported to a fairy tale world where you can receive a bejeweled gift, hear live music, try on chain mail, and meet the Queen of Play in person. Strong National Museum of Play, 1 Manhattan Square, Rochester. Admission: $13.50/general; free/younger than 2. (585) 263-2700.

Cinderella. 12:30 p.m. See Feb. 28 listing. Artful Tales. 1 p.m. Children age 3 and up and

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

Dr. Seuss Birthday Party. 2 p.m. Children age

4 and up can celebrate Dr. Seuss’ 111th birthday with cake, stories, crafts, games and more. Onondaga Free Library, 4840 W. Seneca Turnpike, Syracuse. Free. Registration required: 492-1727.

Butler-Sheehan Irish Dancers. 2 p.m. Schoolage troupe performs in traditional costume. Betts Branch Library, 4862 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Free. 435-1940.

Monster Jam Truck Show. 2-5 p.m. (pit party); 7 p.m. (show). Grave Digger, Monster Mutt, El Toro Loco and other trucks perform stunts at Monster Jam. Fans attending the pit party can meet drivers, get autographs and take photos. Carrier Dome, Syracuse University, Syracuse. Pit party pass: $10. Show general admission: $25-$40 (plus fees)/adults; $10 (plus fees)/ages 2-12. (866) 248-8740.

Sciencenter Showtime. 2 p.m.; Saturdays.

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

Dear Mom. 2 & 8 p.m.; through March 8. See Feb. 27 listing.

GiGi’s Playhouse International Gala. 6 p.m.

A fund-raiser for GiGi’s Playhouse. Double Tree by Hilton Hotel Syracuse, 6301 Route 298, Carrier Circle, East Syracuse. $75. 288-PLAY.

Hot Cocoa and Snow. 6-8 p.m. Explore on

snowshoes, listening for the sounds of owls. Then warm up at the center with hot cocoa. Montezuma Audubon Center, 2295 Route 89, Savannah. $8/ adult with snowshoe rental; $6/child with snowshoe rental. 365-3588.

sunday, march 8

DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME BEGINS The Royal Ball. 1-4 p.m. See March 7 listing. Drumcliffe Irish Dancers. 2 p.m. Performance

of Irish dancers of all ages and skill levels. DeWitt Community Library, Shoppingtown Mall (below food court), 3649 Erie Blvd. E., DeWitt. Free. Registration required: 446-3578. www.dewlib.org.

Lightapalooza. 2 p.m.; also March 22. High

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

Dear Mom. 3 p.m. See Feb. 27 listing.

monday, march 9 See Ongoing Events

tuesday, march 10

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

24. Children ages 3-6 can learn six to seven signs that correspond to the week’s story. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free. Registration required: 637-6374. www.fflib.org.

Family Times March 2015

Calendar

wednesday, march 4

Calendar

National Pi Day, March 14

Teen MOPS. 4-6 p.m.; also March 24. Young

mothers, ages 13-21, with children under 6 enjoy a faith-based program with fun, food and activities while their children are cared for by the childcare program. Liverpool First United Methodist Church, 604 Oswego St., Liverpool. Free. 5692542.

a.m. Author Nancy Carlson takes part in a storytime featuring her books Armond Goes to a Party, I Like Me! and Sometimes You Barf. Barnes & Noble, 3454 Erie Blvd. E., DeWitt. Free. 449-2948.

A World of Puppets. 11 a.m. Jim Napolitano

performs a show featuring shadow figures. Children as young as 3 and parents can come for an up-close look at the performance at 10 a.m. for an additional $5. International Mask and Puppet Museum, 518 Prospect Ave., Syracuse. $10/adults; $6/children. Reserve: 476-0466.

wednesday, march 11

The Special Education Process. Noon-1:30

p.m. Learn how your child can get involved in the individualized education program process. Program is for parents and children of all ages. Say Yes Offices, 109 Otisco St., Syracuse. Free. 435-6275.

St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Noon-3 p.m. The

on the large screen, take part in drawing and trivia contests, and more. Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool. Free. 457-0310. lpl.org.

provide them with skills and tools to help their children succeed in school. Franklin Elementary School, 428 S. Alvord St., Syracuse. Free. 4356275.

thursday, march 12

friday, march 13

under can explore a free-play environment that promotes discovery, creativity and the development of early literacy skills. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free. 6376374. www.fflib.org.

their pajamas and enjoy a storytime featuring Lucy Cousins’ mouse, Maisy. Don’t forget your camera! Barnes & Noble, 3454 Erie Blvd. E., DeWitt. Free. 449-2948.

Trail Tales. 1 p.m.; also March 26. A naturalist

Flames. See Feb. 27 listing.

Anime Night. 6-8 p.m. Teens can watch anime

Smart Play. 10:30 a.m.-noon. Children age 5 and

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

ESL Academy. 5-7 p.m.; also March 14, 26 & 28. Program for families from other countries new to the Syracuse City School District. It aims to

Storytime with Author Nancy Carlson. 10

annual celebration of all things Irish begins at South Salina Street and Clinton Square and concludes at the intersection with Onondaga Street, Syracuse. Free. www.syracusestpatricksparade.org.

ESL Academy. Noon-2 p.m.; also March 26 & 28. See March 12 listing.

Cinderella. 12:30 p.m. See Feb. 28 listing.

Maisy Visits Storytime. 7 p.m. Kids can put on

Syracuse Crunch. 7 p.m. Vs. Adirondack

saturday, march 14

YMCA Folksmarch Walking Club. 8-11 a.m.;

also March 15. Walkers can choose their start time and pick a 5K or 10K marked route. Maps are provided. Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool. Free. 457-0310. lpl.org.

Teen Geeks. 1-3 p.m. See March 4 listing. National Pi Day. 2:30 p.m. Pi, the symbol that

represents the ratio of the circumference of a circle to its diameter (3.14), will be celebrated with activities including making a pi chain, answering Pi Day trivia questions and eating pi snacks; for ages 5-12. Hazard Branch Library, 1620 W. Genesee St., Syracuse. Free. 435-5326.

Sensory Friendly Time. 5:30-7:30 p.m. MOST staffers turn down the noise, turn off the flashing lights and shut off the air compressors so people with sensory issues can enjoy the museum. Museum of Science and Technology (MOST), 500 S. Franklin St., Armory Square, Syracuse. Cost: $5. 425-9068, Ext. 2143.

I LIKE ME A mother-daughter workshop

Nurture your child’s inner musician ... and yours too!

Green Lakes Music Together Presenting tools to helP increase self-confidence Workshop will help build a shield against hurtful thoughts, comments and looks. Workshop will demonstrate effective listening, expressing emotions and positive feelings through art, meditation and journaling

sunday, March 22nd | 1 – 4 p.m. $45 Mother-Daughter | Pre-Registration Required by 3/17

Questions? Call Dr. Mettelman, 559-1319. Location: The Beattie Sanctuary, 8867 Cazenovia Rd., Cazenovia

Family Times March 2015

Fun filled music and movement classes for infants through kindergartners, together with the adults who love them. Register now for our 10 week spring session, April 6 - June 13 Classes in Syracuse, Dewitt, Clay, Camillus, Fayetteville, Skaneateles & Auburn

Call 446-1017 for a free sample class! Visit greenlakesmusictogether.com for more information.

THINKSTOCK PHOTOS

Make a Terrarium, March 18

14.) See the planets Jupiter and Venus through telescopes. Baltimore Woods Nature Center, 4007 Bishop Hill Road, Marcellus. $8. Register: 673-1350.

into the museum with a variety of fun fitness activities. Strong National Museum of Play, 1 Manhattan Square, Rochester. Admission: $13.50/general; free/younger than 2. (585) 263-2700.

Breakfast with the Bunny. 9-10 a.m. & 11

a.m.-noon; also March 21, 22 & 28. Hop on over to the zoo and enjoy a buffet meal with the bunny, plus face painting and more. Rosamond Gifford Zoo, 1 Conservation Place, Syracuse. $16/person (including zoo admission). Reservations required: 435-8511, Ext. 113.

Cinderella. 12:30 p.m. See Feb. 28 listing. National Day of Puppetry. 1-3 p.m. Open

Hand Theater puppeteers will demonstrate and instruct participants in the art of puppetry. Activities will include puppet making; a story hour with puppet guests; and a puppetry technique boot camp. Betts Branch Library, 4862 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Free. 435-1940.

YMCA Folksmarch Walking Club. 1-3 p.m. See March 14 listing.

Preparing for Labor. 6-7:30 p.m. Members

of the CNY Doula Connection teach pregnant women about different positions for labor, explain how a birth ball can be useful, and more. Wear comfortable clothing and bring a yoga mat. Light snacks will be provided. Women’s Info Center, 601 Allen St., Syracuse. Free. 395-3643.

tuesday, march 17 ST. PATRICK’S DAY

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

can learn the ins and outs of Photoshop and the freeware alternative GIMP. Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool. Free. Registration required: 457-0310. lpl.org.

wednesday, march 18

Make a Terrarium. 2-3:30 p.m. Adults and kids

age 6 and older can make their own terrarium with soil and three plants. Supplies provided. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. $5/person, for materials. Registration required: 637-6374, Ext. 2.

Teen Steampunk Tea. 6 p.m. Young people in

Introduction to Naviance. 5:30-7 p.m.

Families with students in grades 6-12 can get an overview of the Naviance college and career readiness curriculum, a tool that helps students develop skills to reach college and career goals. Corcoran High School, 919 Glenwood Ave., Syracuse. Free. 435-6275.

friday, march 20 from preschool age to grade 6 with a caregiver can make seasonal crafts; all materials provided. Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool. Free. 457-0310. lpl.org. engages children ages 1-4 in playing instruments, dancing with streamers, and singing and dancing. Onondaga Free Library, 4840 W. Seneca Turnpike, Syracuse. Free. Registration required: 492-1727. of spring by planting some seeds and taking them home to watch them grow. All supplies provided. Maxwell Memorial Library, 14 Genesee St., Camillus. Free. 672-3661.

thursday, march 19

Caricatures with J.P. Crangle. 11 a.m.-1

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

Scranton Penguins. See Feb. 27 listing.

saturday, march 21 p.m. During the library’s used book sale, see how caricatures are drawn. Paine Branch Library, 113 Nichols Ave., Syracuse. Free. 435-5442.

Let the Children Sing. 3 p.m. Syracuse Children’s Chorus concludes a daylong festival with a concert. HW Smith Pre-K-8 School, 1130 Salt Springs Road, Syracuse. $15-$22. 478-0582.

Syracuse Crunch. 7 p.m. Vs. Utica Comets. See

Toddlers’ Tango. 10:15 & 11 a.m. Tamar Frieden

Syracuse Crunch. 7 p.m. Vs. Wilkes-Barre/

School-age troupe performs in traditional costumes. Hazard Branch Library, 1620 W. Genesee St., Syracuse. Free. 435-5326.

ebrate the Spring Equinox with stories around the campfire. Baltimore Woods Nature Center, 4007 Bishop Hill Road, Marcellus. $8. Register: 673-1350.

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

Plant a Seed. 1-3 p.m. Celebrate the first day

Butler-Sheehan Irish Dancers. 2:30 p.m.

Rites of Spring Campfire. 4-5:30 p.m. Cel-

SPRING BEGINS

grades 7-12 can dress steampunk (or not), enjoy a cuppa tea and create a piece of steampunk jewelry. Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool. Free. Registration required: 457-0310. lpl.org.

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

es children ages 1-4 in playing instruments, dancing with streamers, and singing and dancing. Central Library, Galleries of Syracuse, 447 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Free. 435-1900.

Fit Kids Day. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Jump, run or slide

sunday, march 15

monday, march 16

Toddlers’ Tango. 11 a.m. Tamar Frieden engag-

Calendar

Star Party. 8-10 p.m. (Backup date: March

Feb. 27 listing.

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

Technology Alliance of Central New York presents a talk about lava experiments at Syracuse University, led by Jeffrey Karson, a geology professor. The talk is geared toward middle school students, who must be accompanied by an adult. Attendees can visit the exhibits after the presentation. Museum of Science and Technology (MOST), 500 S. Franklin St., Armory Square, Syracuse. Free. Register by email: jrcafe@tacny.org.

sunday, march 22

CNY Science and Engineering Fair. 11

a.m.-3 p.m. Students in fourth-12th grades conduct research projects and display their results at the event formerly known as the Greater Syracuse Scholastic Science Fair. Keynote speech at 1:15 p.m.; awards ceremony at 2 p.m. SRC Arena, Onondaga Community College, 4585 W. Seneca Turnpike, Syracuse. Free. 425-9068.

St. Vincent De Paul Day Care Center

UNIVERSAL PRE-K FOR 4 YEAR OLDS FROMfor 9:00AM 11:30AM! Pre-K three- and four

year oldsFOR available. WE CARE CHILDREN 6 Weeks - 12 Years

Free Prenatal Consultation

Pediatric Associates, LLP STAFF ON CALL 24 HOURS A DAY

Caring for CNY children for more than 40 years. PediatricAssociatesNY.com

LIVERPOOL 8086 Oswego Rd. • 652-1070 CAMILLUS 601 North Way • 487-1541

MEALS FOR SERVED DAILY: WE CARE CHILDREN Breakfast, Lunch & Snack 6 Weeks - 12 Years

BEFORE, AFTER SCHOOL & SCHOOL HOLIDAY CARE NOW A Monday - Friday 6:30am-5:30pm

MEALS SERVED DAILY Breakfast, Lunch & Snack

1103 BURNET AVE. • SYRACUSE, NY • (315) 476

BEFORE, AFTER SCHOOL & HOLIDAY CARE NOW AVAILABLE! Monday - Friday 6:30am - 5:30pm

1103 BURNET AVE. • SYRACUSE, NY • (315) 476-7508 Family Times March 2015

Calendar

KidSpeakNT3.7x10_Layout 1 1/23/15 10:49 AM Page 1

KOHLS Autism

& Related Disorders Program

Presents

The fun, affordable solution for birthday parties and other celebrations (mention this ad when you book a party and receive 200 extra game tokens!) • Arcade • Indoor Bounce House • Homemade pizzas (made in house!) • Moonwalk Bouncers • Giant Ball Pit • Slides

A Puppet Workshop about

AUTISM

(Did we mention? Our inflatables are adult friendly!)

See our website for current specials! surfcityfamilyfuncenter.com

(315)-214-8129 • 7380 Thompson Road, North Syracuse EVERSON MUSEUM OF ART

Interested in a free performance? KidSpeak is an interactive puppet workshop that helps children and adults understand learning style differences, especially in children with autism spectrum disorders. Designed for ages 6 to 9 in school and community settings.

Free

For More Info: The Margaret L. Williams

Developmental Evaluation Center

315.472.4404 KohlsAutism.com

KidSpeaK

Family Day March 28, 2015 • 12-3pm • FREE Art making for the entire family! Drip and splat paint to create an Action Painting just like Jackson Pollock. Use your imagination to build a curious creature using colorful clay. Make a 3D still life using tissue paper, pipe cleaners and more. Grab a brush to take part in creating a huge collaborative Paint-by-Numbers mural.

Learn all about the Everson in a family friendly tour with a museum docent at noon. Check in at the Visitors Service Desk, space is limited. Family Day is made possible by

Family Times March 2015

Camillus Ski Hill. Thursdays & Fridays, 6-9 p.m.; Saturday & Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Volunteer-run hill (with no lift for tubing) features open skiing and snowboarding, and skiing and snowboarding lessons, plus snow tubing. Camillus Ski Hill, Blackmore Road, Camillus. Skiing or snowboarding: $8/weeknights; $11/weekends. Tubing (weekends only): $5. Call or check website for weather conditions: 487-2778. CamillusSkiHill.com.

It’s Maple Syrup Time. Saturdays, 10 a.m.-2

p.m.; Sundays, 1-4 p.m.; March 7-April 5. A visit to the demonstration sugarbush will introduce families to the heritage of sugaring and the production of maple syrup at six different stations. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. $4/vehicle. 638-2519.

Pancake Breakfast. Saturdays, 9 a.m.-noon;

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

City of Syracuse Ice Skating. Through March

monday, march 23

Tinker Time. 6-8 p.m. People of all ages can

use tools and supplies to experiment and express themselves. (Event inspired by the Tinkering Studio at the Exploratorium in San Francisco.) Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool. Free. 457-0310. lpl.org.

Tuesday, march 24

Minecraft and Coding. 4-5:30 p.m. Teens in

grades 6-12 can learn how to code in Forge for Minecraft. Participants must have computer experience. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free. 637-6374.

wednesday, march 25

Oswego Head Start Open Houses. 10 a.m.-

6 p.m. Oswego County Head Start centers hold open houses for families of prospective 3- and 4-year-olds to tour facilities and meet staff. Fort Ontario, Building 31, 45 Schuyler St., Oswego, and other centers in Oswego County. For more information, call 598-4711. www.oco.org/education.

thursday, march 26

First of NanoDays. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; through

April 4 (closed March 30). Learn about nanotechnology with hands-on tabletop activities, demonstrations and more. Museum of Science and Technology (MOST), 500 S. Franklin St., Armory Square, Syracuse. Admission: $10/adults; $8/ children & seniors. 425-9068.

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

Discover how to live with local wildlife and create a habitat that’s fun for you and safe for them. Baltimore Woods Nature Center, 4007 Bishop Hill Road, Marcellus. $8. Register: 673-1350.

Everson Family Day. Noon-3 p.m. Explore the galleries and make art, including: a drip and splat work in the style of Jackson Pollock; a creature using colorful clay; and a 3D still life using tissue paper and pipe cleaners. Everson Museum of Art, 401 Harrison St., Syracuse. Free. 474-6064.

ESL Academy. Noon-2 p.m. See March 12 listing.

Cinderella. 12:30 p.m. See Feb. 28 listing. Make Up Your Own Holiday Day. 2:30 p.m. Create a holiday party hat and hear stories about celebrating every day of the year. For ages 5-12. Hazard Branch Library, 1620 W. Genesee St., Syracuse. Free. 435-5326.

ESL Academy. 5-7 p.m.; also March 28. See

Syracuse Crunch. 7 p.m. Vs. Rochester Ameri-

March 12 listing.

cans. See Feb. 27 listing.

friday, march 27

sunday, march 29

Tigers. See Feb. 27 listing.

monday, march 30

Syracuse Crunch. 7 p.m. Vs. Bridgeport Sound

saturday, march 28

Educational Foundation Recognition Breakfast. 8-10:30 a.m. Syracuse City School

District Education Foundation holds its annual fundraising breakfast to recognize people and organizations that have supported the city’s schools. Oncenter Ballroom, 800 S. State St., Syracuse. $60/individual. Reservations required: 391-0259.

See Ongoing Events

tuesday, march 31 See Ongoing Events

30 at indoor rinks; weather permitting, through March 11 at Clinton Square. The Department of Parks, Recreation and Youth Programs offers skating at these locations. Meachem Rink (121 W. Seneca Turnpike). Open skating: Tuesdays-Fridays, 12:15 to 3:15 p.m.; Fridays and Saturdays. 7:15 to 10 p.m. Call in advance as some hockey games interfere with open skate hours: 492-0179. Sunnycrest Rink (698 Robinson St., near Henninger High School). Open skating: Mondays and Tuesdays, 12:15 to 4:30 p.m.; Wednesdays, noon to 5:30 and 7:15 to 9:30 p.m.; Thursdays, noon to 4:30 p.m.; Fridays, noon to 4:30 and 7:15 to 10 p.m.; Saturdays, 1:45 to 6:45 p.m., 7 to 8:15 p.m. and 8:30 to 10 p.m.; Sundays, 1:30 to 5:30 p.m. Call in advance; hours subject to change: 473-4696. Clinton Square Ice Rink. Free admission Wednesday nights. Mondays-Thursdays, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Fridays and school breaks, 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.; Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.; Sundays, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Rink open weather permitting, so call in advance: 4230129. Admission at all rinks: $3/adults; $2/age 12 and under and age 55 and older; $3/skate rental.

Weekend Walks With a Naturalist. Saturdays and Sundays, 2 p.m. Nature discovery hike with different topics each weekend. Beaver Lake Nature Center, Route 370, Baldwinsville. Admission: $4 per vehicle. 638-2519. Great Swamp Conservancy Nature Trails.

Daily, dawn to dusk. Throughout the year, visitors can grab their walking shoes (or snowshoes) and explore 4.5 miles of well-groomed, flat trails. Trails feature a 900-foot boardwalk, osprey nesting platform, and wetland and grassland restoration areas. The area is a stop for many migratory waterfowl and songbirds; other wildlife include muskrats and beavers. Great Swamp Conservancy, 3.5 miles off I-90, Exit 34, 8375 N. Main St., Canastota. Free. 697-2950.

Baltimore Woods Nature Center. Hiking

trails and parking are free and open every day from dawn to dusk. Interpretive Center open Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; closed Sundays. Snowshoe rental: $5/day. 4007 Bishop Hill Road, Marcellus. 673-1350.

Wegmans Playground. Boundless Playground

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

Barnes & Noble Storytimes. Thursdays, 10

a.m. Join a storytime for toddlers and preschool-

Family Times March 2015

Calendar

ONGOING EVENTS

Living with Backyard Wildlife, March 28

Calendar

PersonaL MONEY MARKET ACCOUNT

A great rate guaranteed for 12 months! www.pathfinderbank.com

Main Office: 343-0057 • Plaza Office: 343-4483 Downtown Drive-Thru: 343-2577 • Mexico Office: 963-7248 Fulton Office: 592-9545 • Lacona Office: 387-3437 Central Square Office: 676-2265 • Cicero Office: 752-0033 Syracuse Office: 207- 8020

All Ages. All Disabilities. Always By Your Side. Whether you have a simple question or have no idea where to start, we’re here to help.

635 James Street, Syracuse, NY Voice: 472-3171 | TTY: 479-6363 32

Family Times March 2015

Earn up to…

1.00APY %

*Annual Percentage Yield (APY) accurate as of February 11, 2015. $9,999 and below earns 0.05% APY. $24,999 and below earns 0.10% APY. $49, 999 and below earns 0.15% APY. $50,000 and above earns 1.00% APY. $20,000 initial deposit (new monies) required to open the account. Rates guaranteed for 12 months from account opening. Refer to fee schedule.

Member FDIC

THINKSTOCK PHOTOS

Wegmans sit-down dining area, 6789 E. Genesee St., Fayetteville. Club devoted to the ancient Chinese game of Go; players of all ages. Free. 479-9073.

Regional Market Farmers’ Market. Sat-

urdays, 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. 422-8647. It’s Maple Syrup Time, in Ongoing Events ers that’s features a book, songs and coloring. Barnes & Noble, 3454 Erie Blvd. E., DeWitt. Free. 449-2948.

Maxwell Library Storytimes. Storytimes and

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

Northeast Community Center Library Storytimes. Preschool storytimes with rhymes

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

DeWitt Community Library. Library offers

hundreds of free programs for parents and children. DeWitt Community Library, Shoppingtown Mall (below food court), 3649 Erie Blvd. E., DeWitt. 446-3578.

Fayetteville Free Library Storytimes. (Ex-

cluding holidays.) First Steps: (Wednesdays, 9:30 a.m.) for children up to age 2. Pre-K Storytime: (Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m.) for ages 3-6. Cuddletime: (Thursdays, 9:30 a.m.) for babies not yet walking and an adult. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free. 637-6374.

Onondaga Free Library Storytimes. Tod-

dler storytimes (ages 2-3): Wednesdays & Thursdays, 10:15 a.m. Onondaga Free Library, 4840 W. Seneca Turnpike, Syracuse. Free. Registration preferred for first-time attendees: 492-1727.

Petit Branch Library Storytimes. Tuesdays,

10:30 a.m. Toddler and preschooler storytime for children ages 18 months-5 years and caregivers. Includes stories, rhymes, finger plays and songs. Petit Branch Library, 105 Victoria Place, Syracuse. 435-3636.

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

Include date and time of event, location with numbered street address and town, price, and phone number for publication. We give priority to low- or no-cost events aimed at parents, kids, or parents accompanied by kids. For consideration, listings are due by March 6 for the April issue.

Family Times March 2015

Calendar

Syracuse Go Club. Every Monday, 7-10 p.m.

Calendar

Your logo - The winning look!

RACE

IN STYLE with custom apparel from Spinnaker Custom Products

Call us for your next event

431-2787 spinnakercustom.com 1415 W. Genesee St. Syracuse, NY

Family Times March 2015

“Mychild child would would “My nevergamble.” gamble.” never

wanna wanna

BET? BET? wanna BET?

BACK PACK

CLASSIFIED DIRECTORY To advertise call 472-4669 and press 2. April Issue Deadline: March 13, 2015

ActivitieS

childwould would never never gamble MyMy child gamble

4 pack of tickets to the

wanna BET? Gamblingmight might seem like Gambling seem like

Gambling might seem harmless fun at first firstlike but can ambling might seem like harmless harmless fun at butharmless can become an obsession and fun at first but can become become an obsession and fun at first but can becomean an can lead to other risky can lead to other risky obsessionand andcan can lead lead to obsession toother other behaviors.More More than behaviors. than risky behaviors.More More than financial ky behaviors. financial financialhealth health isthan at financial at risk. risk. healthisis at at risk. risk. health

What’s in our Backpack Giveaway?

Samurai Action Class

Tigris Shrine Circus

Focus, fitness and fun for ages 4-10! Taught by Jonathan Reid, MS Pediatric OT 2550 Erie Blvd.,449-2332, aikidoofcny.com

To enter: Send all contact information to promotions@familytimes.biz with “Circus” in the subject line. Entry deadline is noon on March 19th, 2015

April 3rd - 4th

Body Recognition Class

Kids thatgamble gamble are: Kids that gamble are: Kids that gamble are: Kids that are:

likely to to drink · more more likely drink likely drink · more more likely to drink · more likely to smoke  more likely to smoke likely to to smoke · more more likely smoke more more likely to be in trouble · more likely to be inin with to be be trouble with · likely more likely the law troublethe withlaw trouble with the law law

m maakkee a n c a s c t s ent rn PaPrae enccee r e r f e f i f d f aadi IT’STIME TIMETO TO HAVE HAVE THE IT’S THE GAMBLING TALK… IT’STIME TIME TO TOTALK… HaVE GAMBLING IT’S HaVE

IT’S NOT JUST NICKELSTaLK… AND THE GaMBLInG S NOT JUST NICKELS ANDDIMES DIMES THE GaMBLInG TaLK…

more information or to to schedule schedule aaparent IT’S NOT JUSTNICKELS NICKELS AND rFor more information or parent IT’S NOT JUST ANDDIMES DIMES presentation contact: contact: presentation

For moreinformation information or (315) 471–1359 For more ortoto (315) 471–1359 schedule a parent www.PreventionNetworkCNY.org schedule a parent www.PreventionNetworkCNY.org presentation contact: contact: presentation

(315)471–1359 471–1359 (315)

PreventionNetworkCNY.org PreventionNetworkCNY.org

movement. music. instruments. imagination. We will explore the motions of our bodies with dance. For children 8 mos.-5 yrs old. Birthday parties available. Call Tamar @ 446-2750 or www.toddlerstango.com

conSignment ShopS Spring & Summer

Children’s Consignment Event Friday, March 27th from 2pm-7pm Saturday, March 28th from 10am-6pm Sunday, March 29th from 10am-3pm Fingerlakes Mall 1579 Clark Street Road, Auburn, NY 13022 Price: Free! 315-657-7215 www.savvymomconsignment.com

DAnce inStruction

TheDanceStudioCNY.com

Camillus & Manlius Classes for Age 1 & Up! Spring & Summer Class Schedules Coming Soon! 682-7877 or thedancestudiocny@gmail.com

miScellAneouS Attention Fairmount School Graduates:

Lee Upcraft is writing a history of Fairmount School, 19351970. If you have any recollections or pictures from that time, please contact Lee Upcraft at u60@psu.edu or (814) 238-5428.

ServiceS COPY YOUR * MEMORIES * Pictures to Video Slide shows, VHS, 8mm,Digital Images, CD’s & DVD’s Call us !!!! Visual Technologies (315)-423-2000 Or visit Us www.VisualTec.com

ServiceS

Painting, Remodeling, Flooring, door & window install./plumbing & electrical bathroom, kitchen, basement Retired teacher, 35yrs exp. Joe Ball 436-9008 (Onondaga County only)

Family Times March 2015