Family Times December 2013 by Family Times

The Parenting Guide of Central New York www.familytimes.biz | December 2013

Drawing Contest Winner: Carlin MacBlane, age 11, Liverpool

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Family Times December 2013

contents

December 2013

Shuttle Set, $12.99; available at the MOST

8 4

Editor’s Note

Storytime

Sometimes a gift is just a magical moment.

Family Matters

Social media demands parents step up their game.

RE CAPTU

MOMENT Friends Isabella (left) and Riley, both age 3, enjoy a fall day in the backyard in this photo by Riley’s mother, Amy DeLosh of Jamesville. To submit a photo for our Capture a Moment feature, visit www.familytimes.biz and click on the “Submissions” tab.

Teachable Moments

Together Times

CNY Gift Guide

Drawing Contest

You can start your own traditions. Really!

Three museum shops offer choices for holiday shopping.

Family 20 Atypical A cookie tradition persists in the face of a dietary challenge.

Welcome the New Year with a family party.

Donlin Drive Elementary students make cold weather look fun!

29 Family Fun Calendar Events

See what’s on our Holiday

Wish List

this season! There are some great offers from local businesses.

Advertiser Index Party .............................. 11-13 Practice ......................... 18-19 Learn .............................. 24-25 Backpack Directory............. 42 Family Times December 2013

family times

Editor’s Note

The Parenting

Guide of Central New York

DECEMBER 2013

Snow in October

ISSUE NO. 140

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

very year that Family Times has held a drawing contest, we’ve asked students to create, in October, a picture about “winter fun”—when snowmen, Christmas and sledding are not usually uppermost in kids’ minds. Donlin Drive Elementary School students who drew the pictures in this issue (page 26) were probably fantasizing about Halloween costumes and candy just moments before they put pencil to paper. But then the students imagined themselves in a snowy season—and we got to see their pictures and remember how fun a Central New York winter can be. Family Times has got plenty of other seasonal stories this month, including our guide to gifts found at local museum shops; an epiphany about giving presents (page 6); a piece on adapting cookie recipes for a child with celiac disease (page 20); suggestions for celebrating New Year’s Eve with the whole family—even teens (page 22); and a story about making new traditions that enhance together time. We’ve also got a timeless column on how parents can help their children skirt the perils of social media (page 8). And, what’s more, 140-plus listings for events happening in CNY. We wish you a season filled with peace, joy and fun.

PHOTOGRAPHER Michael Davis OFFICE COORDINATOR/CIRCULATION MANAGER Christine Scheuerman DESIGNERS Meaghan Arbital, Caitlin O’Donnell DIGITAL MEDIA MANAGER Ty Marshal (ext. 144) CONTRIBUTORS Deborah Cavanagh, Tammy DiDomenico, Eileen Gilligan, Emma Kress, Linda Lowen, Cary Rector, Tonja Rector, Maggie Lamond Simone, Chris Xaver ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS Gina Fortino (ext. 115) GinaFortino@syracusenewtimes.com Lesli Mitchell (ext. 140) LMitchell@syracusenewtimes.com Joseph Monkofsky (ext. 112) JMonkofsky@syracusenewtimes.com Kimberly Rossi (ext. 116) KRossi@syracusenewtimes.com Holly Timian (ext. 139) HTimian@syracusenewtimes.com

Reid Sullivan Editor in chief

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

On the cover: The winning submission in Family Times’ sixth annual cover drawing contest is by Donlin Drive Elementary School sixth-grader Carlin MacBlane. For the honorable mentions earned by drawings in the contest, see page 26. Caitlin O’Donnell design. Advertising deadline for January is Dec. 12. Calendar deadline for January is Dec. 4. 4

Family Times December 2013

PARENTING PARENTING PARENTING MEDIA ASSOCIATIONMEDIA ASSOCIATION MEDIA ASSOCIATION

2013 Gold2013 Silver 2013 Award Award Winner Award Winner Finalist Editorial and Design Editorial and Design Editorial and Design Awards Competition Awards Competition Awards Competition

More than 100,000 readers each issue.

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Family Times December 2013

E BY LINDA LOW

The Present That Matters Giving’s meaning changes over time

or me, the peak of Christmas giving is the heart-pounding moment when my children pick up that first wrapped package from the pile and tear away the paper, expectancy and excitement illuminating their faces. When I watch it with my own eyes, the tears always come. I’d like to think that my response is common to many parents. We’re at our happiest when our children are happy— and holiday time is a chance to be indulgent and make every wish come true. But I didn’t always feel this way. For many years a sense of guilt shadowed this

time of year. I often asked myself, Why is gift giving so difficult? It wasn’t the shopping, wrapping and hiding of presents, or keeping track of what everybody wanted. It was the idea of extravagant excess that troubled me. It was the opposite of how my husband and I had hoped to raise our daughters, Jaye and Em. We tried to show by example that shiny new stuff wasn’t essential to happiness. I bought gently used items, furnished our home with estate sale furniture, and frequently shopped for clothes at consignment and thrift stores. The first time Jaye said, “But somebody already

wore that!” when I held up a secondhand shirt, I answered, “And now we will too. There’s nothing here that a washing machine can’t take care of.” As a kid who’d grown up wearing hand-me-downs from friends and neighbors, I’d promised myself that my own children wouldn’t suffer as I did. Everything in their lives would be brand-spanking new. But then something my neighbor Pat said triggered a shift in my thinking. The two of us had been volunteering at a church rummage sale, sorting through bags of donated toys and children’s clothing. To my eyes, Pat seemed out of place. A blond Martha Stewart-type, she and her children were always impeccably dressed. Her home was artfully decorated and she gave off an aura of privilege. “Look at this!” She pulled out a set of child’s plastic stacking rings. “Yeah, they’re pretty grubby,” I said. “We should probably just throw them out.” “No, they’re fine! The ones they make nowadays aren’t as sturdy. The plastic is cheaper. Just scrub them with cleanser. Your girls will love them.” “Used toys?” I said doubtfully. “My kids’ favorite toys all came from garage sales. Sure, we could afford new

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Family Times December 2013

stuff, but most of what’s sold in the stores falls apart. Junk toys don’t make it to garage sales. They break, they get thrown out.” The incident helped me shed any embarrassment at buying secondhand. I began to choose quality used items over cheap new goods, and so did my daughters. They picked up books and toys at garage sales, and bought jeans at the thrift store. We were mostly content with our choices—mostly being 10 months of the year. Once November ushered in the holiday season, however, the girls went berserk. “Mom! Come quick!” a voice screamed from the family room. Panicked, I rushed in to see my daughters flipping through a holiday toy catalog, circling items with a red Sharpie. They wanted, they wanted. . . and I dreaded this expression of “the gimmes.” Yet I wanted to make them happy. So I paid attention to the TV commercials and the stuff circled in red, and stood in line to obtain those must-have toys even though most qualified as junk. My personal Waterloo was the Barbie Jam ‘n Glam Tour Bus, 55 dollars’ worth of pink and purple plastic on wheels—a

mobile stage for the iconic doll. Em had coveted it for months, but after unwrapping it and playing with it for two weeks she returned it to its original box and pushed it to the back of her closet. She said it took up too much space and I could get rid of it. I sold it on Craigslist in early March.

I had the pleasure of seeing my children deliriously happy, and that memory would outlast the gift. My worst fears had been realized: Em’s become ungrateful. All these presents have spoiled her. Then, reconsidering, I noted that she didn’t whine or complain; she simply admitted the toy wasn’t what she thought it would be. She’d learned two valuable lessons: Few things live up to the hype, and what we think we want doesn’t always make us happy in the long run. However, in the short run it did. She’d been dreaming of that bus, and there it was. And that kernel of truth almost got lost among the bits of shredded wrapping

paper and abandoned toys I gathered up that year. There was no need for me to feel guilt-ridden. My kids weren’t going to turn into greedy monsters because of one pile of presents one day of the year. And even if I wasted a handful of dollars on a gift that turned out to be junk, what was the harm? I had the pleasure of seeing my children deliriously happy, and that memory would outlast the gift. Not every purchase will turn out to be the treasured item. It’s enough just to lose ourselves in the joy of giving—in that one moment when we’re filled to the brim and so overwhelmed we’re convinced we’ll burst with happiness. We don’t need a photo or video to recall the moment. Once you feel it, you never forget. That’s the gift. That’s the present that matters. o Linda Lowen writes for MSN.com, 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 the pseudonyms Jaye and Em in her writing.

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Family Matters

BY CARY AND TONJA RECTOR

There’s No App For That Guiding your teenager’s social media use

Drawing the lines online: Parents should set boundaries for a teen’s behavior on social media. 8

Family Times December 2013

Adolescent Psych Better understanding of neuropsychology has helped explain irrational and seemingly “crazy” adolescent behavior. Brain development is now understood as more fluid and capable of change over more years than previously thought. While it’s true that approximately 95 percent of brain development is complete by age 5, the most “advanced” parts of the brain complete their development in early adulthood. And how important that last 5 percent is! These more “advanced brain features” include impulse control, emotional regulation and rational decision-making. Teens have difficulty processing social emotions, especially fear and anger. During adolescence, thought and action outpace

hink you know your teen’s social media platforms? Facebook, Instagram and Twitter—right? How about Snapchat, Vine, Tumblr and Kik? Ever heard of Pheed? All of these social media sites are available as apps. Kids do not need a computer to access them. As a matter of fact, they probably prefer to use smartphones. They can use their phones to take pictures or videos and upload them directly to the sites. Today’s teens are the digital generation. The world has changed dramatically from the time you were an adolescent and is continuing to evolve rapidly. Your parenting skills need to evolve in order to keep up. We are often asked questions about how to handle a child’s social media use. When should a child get a cell phone? Should it be a smartphone or one that can only call or text? Is it appropriate to view a teen’s text messages and follow what they are doing on social media? Should he be allowed to use social media—and if so, at what age? Parents frequently express concern regarding cyberbullying, sexting and use of inappropriate content and language— and they should be concerned. The news is filled with examples of social media’s involvement in everything from sexual assault to harassment to teen suicide. A clearer understanding of teen behaviors can help parents form appropriate social media strategies.

judgment capabilities. Adolescents essentially have a temporary neurological condition, resulting in deficient controls to modulate impulses and understand outcomes. This leads to some of the unpredictable, surprising and dysfunctional behavior parents can encounter. As a parent, try to take the perspective that you need to teach your adolescent how to become a functioning adult. In today’s world that includes instruction on the best use of social media and means parents need a working knowledge of sites kids use. Don’t fear the technology: Get involved. Ask them to show you around their favorite websites or social media platforms. Ask what they like about each one and how kids are using it. Let them educate you.

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Boundaries As we said, a teen’s brain is still developing decision-making skills. Teens aren’t always good at self-regulation. Parents have to monitor and set boundaries. You know your children best. Use your judgment about when they are ready for their own cell phone or are allowed to join social media platforms. Once you think they are ready, learn, monitor and set limits. Monitoring Parents should look at all aspects of a teenager’s use of technology. Be honest, and let your child know you plan to monitor his behavior, much as you do in other aspects of his life. If you find he is behaving inappropriately, there will be consequences. Let him know you will look at his online postings and follow what is going on. Agree to stay in the background and not comment on pictures or posts unless it is OK with the teen. Spot-check texts. Be aware of any drastic changes to his activity on social media. A sudden drop in traffic on a site could mean it’s fallen out of favor, but it could also mean there’s trouble or another “unofficial” profile has been created. Social media sites are where kids gather and hang out. Take time to keep tabs on where they are. Spying Although we don’t recommend it, there are ways to monitor a teen’s use of technology that the teen is unaware of (perhaps). Tracking and notification programs are available. The problem, however, is once the parent has concerning information in hand, it’s necessary to reveal to the teen how the information was gathered. She might feel her privacy was violated and any meaningful conversation is then impossible. Not to mention the teen brain could easily conclude, “If they can sneak, why can’t I?” Social media has some terrific benefits. The Internet has made it possible to connect with people as never before. Have an interest, hobby or life situation? There is likely an online group exchanging ideas, support and information. Keeping up with friends and family separated by distance or busy schedules has never been easier. Teens love to talk to and be with each other. Social media platforms are today’s gathering places. Check them out: It’s where you can find your kids. o Cary and Tonja Rector are married and live with their children in Manlius. Cary is a licensed mental health counselor and Tonja is a licensed marriage and family therapist. Consult your own health care provider before making decisions affecting your family’s well-being. To comment on this article, write to editorial@familytimes.biz.

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Teachable Moments

BY EMMA KRESS

Memorable Times Your family can create traditions of their own

Family Times December 2013

hen I was little, anytime we did anything fun, I begged for it to become a “tradition.” Naturally, as a parent, I love creating family traditions. A few things seem clear about the way we make memories. When something is repeated, we are more likely to remember it. Researchers also agree that the more associations (such as sights and smells) we have with an experience, the more likely we’ll remember it. We are also more likely to remember moments that are fun and connected to loved ones. I asked family, friends and my Twitter followers for some of their favorite traditions. Enhance the holidays. The holidays are a natural time to create traditions. Several people give new pajamas on Christmas Eve. One Twitter follower shared that in her family they have “mystery gifts” on Christmas Eve. The parents enlist the help of family members and friends so that the kids are thrilled when gifts appear as if by magic on the doorstep—while the parents have never left their sight. Many people begin Christmas morning with a pancake breakfast, preferably eaten in those new PJs. This year, in my family, we kept jars all year to open on New Year’s Day: One jar holds slips of paper stating nice things that happened to us, while another lists nice things we’ve done for others. Celebrate special occasions. The night before a birthday, my husband and I hang beads on the doorway of the birthday child and fill the bedroom hallway with balloons so the day begins with a party. At breakfast, we give them the cards that we’ve kept hidden, and, for dinner, the birthday person chooses the meal and it’s lit by candles. Pay attention. Notice what your kids love. Which activities do they love most? Think about creating opportunities to do them regularly—not every day—but enough that they remember and anticipate them. Host a read-a-thon, jumprope-a-thon or neighborhood run. Make events out of passions.

Holiday magic: Giving pajamas on Christmas Eve is popular with many families. Break routines. One colleague’s favorite childhood memory is when his mom picked him up from school for a dentist appointment and surprised him with a matinee of The Empire Strikes Back. Once a year, on a sunny spring day, my high school cancelled classes and let us lounge on the grass. Routines are important to children’s development. But part of the fun of having routines is breaking them. Reframe a negative. I have a good friend who is married to a retired firefighter. When their daughters were small, he worked the Saturday-night shift every six weeks. On those nights, the girls spread a picnic blanket in front of the TV, ate fried foods and sweets and watched a series of chick flicks together. Another friend made “Cheese and Ronis,” or cottage cheese and macaroni, whenever her children were sick—and her kids, now graduated and grown, still request it. Family adventures. Some families I know try to do one somewhat daring thing a weekend during the summertime. Another friend created the “Playground Summer,” when she and her young son explored every playground in Central

New York. One family who lived on a river took nighttime kayak trips together. Gather with friends. The things that we loved to do as teens and twenty-somethings can evolve to include growing families. I know several people who gather with college friends to rent beach or lake houses for a weekend with their families. Eat together. We enjoy ice cream on July 4 followed by a family sleepover. We host a cookie-decorating party before Christmas. I must eat a hot dog at the State Fair. (Seriously.) My husband’s grandmother fried homemade doughnuts on Doughnut Day when he was young. Remember that traditions do not need to be fussy or expensive. Experiment. Even if your attempts don’t evolve into traditions, you’ll have fun trying. Notice what makes your family happy and do it. o Emma Kress, a teacher at Cicero-North Syracuse High School, has held a variety of educational posts at levels from pre-K to 12th grade. Send comments about this article to editorial@familytimes.biz.

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Family Times December 2013

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A Piece of History 1. 1852 puzzle, $19.99 2. Eric Carle’s Animals Animals book, $22.99 3. Railroad and Betty Monroe note cards (pack of eight), $6 each 4. 2013 OHA ornament, $10 5. “Children’s Stories” mural coloring pack and sheet, $11.99 6. Syracuse China sample plate, $12 7. Syracuse China tea cup and saucer, $13 8. Typewriter key bracelet, $100 9. OHA historic mayoral tie, $49.99 All items available at the OHA’s shop.

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Family Times December 2013

Discovering Science 1. Stuffed triceratops, $10.95 2. Microscope set, $19.99 3. Pull-back cloth vehicles, $24.99 4. Crystal growing kit, $12.50 5. MOST mug, $9.75 6. Agate geode, $21 7. Remote-control helicopter, $75 All items available at the MOSTâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s shop.

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B Y D E B O R A H C AVA N A G H

Remaking Holiday Cookies A mother’s quest for gluten-free success

ookies have always spoken to me. Chips and pretzels sit in my pantry for weeks and I ignore them. But the shouts coming from the cookie jar can be deafening. What other food item can be for breakfast or company—and always makes recipients happy? They are perfect. When I was young we lived in Baldwinsville. Christmas meant heading into Syracuse to my Aunt Janet and Uncle Tom’s for family get-togethers. Aunt Janet always had trays and plates throughout the kitchen and dining room overflowing with an assortment of homemade Christmas cookies. I spent the entire evening planning which to eat. Would it be the butterball with finely diced walnuts? The folded cookie with chocolate and pineapple preserve filling? The anise-laced and frosting-covered Italian wedding cookie? My young mind swirled with anticipation. When I was in high school we moved to Fishkill. Every Sunday after church my mom would take my brother, sister and me to Paesano’s Bakery. We were allowed to choose one treat from the pastry case. My eyes were always drawn to the raspberry-filled, powder-sugar-covered, Linzer 20

Family Times December 2013

tortes—big, yummy, cookies. (Doughnuts, cake or pie—who needs ’em?) But when it came to making cookies, my all-time favorite was my mother’s sugar cookie cutout. It was simple and pure, with its light dusting of sprinkles to make it Christmas-y. All I needed was an ice cold glass of milk or mug of sweet tea for dipping and I was in heaven. As an adult, beginning with my mom’s and aunt’s recipes, I began collecting cookies. If I tasted a homemade treat that was scrumptious, I would ask for details. I followed cookie contests printed in the local newspaper. Every year I tried to add a new gem to my repertoire. The culmination of my cookie collecting was unveiled each December. The Christmas tree was decorated. Various holiday knickknacks were spread throughout the house. Tunes wafted from the CD player. A fire glowed in the fireplace. The time to bake had arrived. I had a routine. Difficult cookies were made first. The easiest were made last because I could whip up multiple types in one day, adding variety to the assortment. Most were frozen until it was time to make trays for family and friends. A few of each were placed in the “sample

container” and kept in the refrigerator for family. I became known as “The Cookie Lady.” Then, at age 7, my daughter was diagnosed with celiac disease, an autoimmune disorder caused by a reaction to gluten protein found in wheat, barley and rye. You need wheat flour to make almost all my yummy cookies. It was a dilemma: How could I create these wonderful treats and then tell my daughter she could not eat them? What was I to do? My love for homemade cookies was stronger than my fear of recipe failure. Armed with ambition and an insatiable cookie appetite I embarked upon a mission to make all my treasures gluten-free. For some it was easy. My aunt’s almond paste cookie recipe and holiday fudge do not call for flour. Others have so many ingredients the flavor and texture change by switching out flour is barely noticeable—such as the seven-layer cookie and pumpkin chocolate chip cookies with caramel frosting. But my favorite, my mom’s sugar cookie cutout, seemed impossible. Either the cookie would not hold its holiday shape, would be too crumbly, or had no taste. I tried various combinations of rice, tapioca and potato flour. I dabbled with butter vs. shortening. I experimented with different extracts, including vanilla, lemon and almond. I heaped on frosting—hoping to mask the lack of flavor and attempt to hold the cookie together. It took years of disappointment and “so-so” sugar cookie eating, but I have achieved success! The decorated cutout once again is displayed on the cookie trays at Christmas. And most importantly, they are Amanda’s favorite. Not only does she choose the sugar cookie from the sample tray as her bedtime snack with a big glass of milk, on Christmas Eve it is the cookie she leaves for Santa on the plate by the tree. As you can imagine, this makes Santa and me very happy indeed. o Deborah Cavanagh lives in Manlius with her husband and two children. She has written for local organizations supporting children and adults with special needs and publishes the blog www.momofmanyneeds. com.

RECIPE Nana’s GF Sugar Cookie Cut-Outs Dough ²/³ cup shortening (I use Crisco) ¾ cup sugar ½ teaspoon grated orange peel 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1½ teaspoons lemon juice 1½ teaspoons almond extract 2 cups gluten-free flour (I use King Arthur Gluten Free Multi-Purpose flour) 1½ teaspoons baking powder ¼ teaspoon salt 1 egg ½ teaspoon xanthan gum Glaze 1 egg yolk 1 teaspoon water As many drops of food coloring as you like Sprinkles Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Cream shortening, sugar, orange peel, vanilla extract, almond extract and lemon juice. Add egg. Beat till light and fluffy. Sift dry ingredients together. Blend into creamed mixture. Wrap dough and chill in refrigerator for an hour. Lightly flour surface, rolling pin and cookie cutters with gluten-free flour. Roll out dough to ¼-inch thickness and cut desired shapes. Place on non-stick cookie sheet (or sheet covered with parchment paper). To make color glaze, take one egg yolk and mix in 1 teaspoon of water in small bowl. Add food coloring. Paint with soft bristle paint brush onto cookies. Add sprinkles if desired. Bake glazed cookies for 8 to 9 minutes. Cool and enjoy.

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Family Times December 2013

Together Times

BY LAURA LIVINGSTON SNYDER

New Year’s Eve at Home Throw a rockin’ party for your family

t is time for The Great Do-Over. We’re at the end of 2013 and on the cusp of 2014. What better way to observe the new year than with a family party. Although I don’t celebrate the way I did when I was young and didn’t have kids, I still know how to throw an event to remember—except now I can stay in, wear comfy clothes and enjoy my children’s excitement. Your family’s Dec. 31 festivities can also be laid-back because kids don’t care as long as they have a good time. Dinner We start with oodles of munchies and make homemade pizzas together. Fresh dough is easy and inexpensive to pick up at the grocery store. Each package is one pound—or one pizza. A jar of pizza sauce will cover several. Having a few choices for toppings makes all the difference. I buy cheese, green peppers, mushrooms, onions and pepperoni. Buy whatever your family prefers; just be sure to let the dough rise at room temperature for an hour or so before stretching out your pizza. Each of my kids likes the idea of being chef for a night, complete with apron. They get to make their own dinner just how they like it. Plus, there is no lengthy wait for the delivery person and no stress traveling wintry December roads.

Dessert Root beer floats are basic but special. Dollar stores are a great place to buy mugs or glasses for floats, too. Place a scoop or two of vanilla ice cream in the glass and slowly pour in root beer soda. Have the kids help top it off with real whipped cream and a cherry. It’s a simple but memorable experience to assemble a float—so don’t forget the camera! Activities There are a lot of activities to do in the evening and most are dependent upon age and cooperation. In our house, games like Trouble or Go 22

Family Times December 2013

Noisemakers and More Accessorize with favors such as sparkly headbands, beads and funny sunglasses that can be purchased anywhere. Noisemakers are always a hit, but mostly with the kids. We had to have designated timeouts for the toys to keep our sanity. I think I actually hid them before the next morning with an out-of-sight, out-of-mind attitude. It’s still worth it to see the excitement on their faces (if not, maybe having a glass of wine will help).

Fish have been popular at various points—or just showing a favorite movie. In recent years, we’ve put in videos of what we’ve filmed over the last 12 months to laugh and reminisce. It’s amazing how much people change. (In my experience, teens and tweens will quietly indulge in this fun despite their denials.) It’s a great time to bond, reflect and share thoughts and memories of what they’re seeing on the screen. Later in the evening we like to put on the Rockin’ New Year’s Eve television specials for the musical groups. It also can help keep the older kids from sneaking back to their room to do whatever teens do when the food is gone. Winding Down End the evening early with a mock midnight countdown. Kids like any opportunity to make a lot of noise. Mine get a kick out of throwing pieces of confetti all over the place on purpose—without mom melting down. Actually, they giggle a lot when I throw throw paper all over my own floor. So get silly and show your little ones you can still let loose and enjoy yourself. (Putting the partiers to bed early also allows some alone time for Mom and Dad to snuggle and relax while watching the ball drop.) Whatever families do with their children I can tell you it is for a limited time. Kids only want to be with their parents while they’re cool, and our cool factor decreases drastically as they get older. So take this time to appreciate being in a snug, warm home surrounded by the people you love as the new year is welcomed in. o Laura Livingston Snyder is a writer and mother of four who lives north of Syracuse. She blogs at nestingdolll.blogspot.com. Send email to her at editorial@familytimes.biz.

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Family Times December 2013

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Snow Days

articipants in Family Times’ sixth annual drawing contest came from the fourth-, fifth- and sixth-grade art classes of Patricia Bangson, who teaches at Donlin Drive Elementary School, 299 Donlin Drive, in Liverpool. Students drew their interpretations of the theme “winter fun” in colored pencil. Thirty-four students submitted their work, and two staffers in Family Times’ Creative Services Department chose the winner, whose drawing is on the magazine’s cover and here, along with five artworks that earned honorable mentions. We want to thank Patricia Bangson, Principal Amanda Viel, and the Donlin Drive Elementary students who participated in the contest. Thank you for showing us how much fun cold weather can be!

Honorable Mention Ayush Patel, age 9

Honorable Mention Arianna Monds, age 10 26

Family Times December 2013

Honorable Mention Morgan Gentile, age 10

Honorable Mention Alyssa Lee, age 10

Contest Winner Carlin MacBlane, age 11

Honorable Mention Rebekah Davie, age 10

Attention, Elementary and Middle School Art Teachers! Family Times is seeking a school to submit entries for our 2014 Drawing Contest. If you want to have your students (grades 4 to 7) submit artwork and have a winner on the cover of the December 2014 magazine, contact Editor Reid Sullivan at editorial@familytimes. biz to learn more. Submissions can be in any two-dimensional medium and will be due at the end of October 2014.

Family Times December 2013

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Tree Lighting Ceremony, Nov. 29

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

FRIDAY, NOV. 29

Light Up Syracuse Reception. 5-9 p.m.

Cookies and cocoa reception with music by Merry Mischief, and Gingerbread Gallery. Erie Canal Museum, 318 Erie Blvd. E., Syracuse. $5/adults; $4/ seniors; $2/age 12 & under. 471-0593, Ext. 15.

Tree Lighting Ceremony. 6:30 p.m. The

day of shows of the popular holiday movie, about Billy, who rides a mysterious train that takes him to the North Pole. MOST (Museum of Science & Technology), 500 S. Franklin St., Syracuse. $9.50/ adults; $7.50/children & seniors. 425-9068. www. most.org.

annual lighting of the 50-foot-plus Norway spruce concludes an evening of entertainment and appearances by Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus. Special programs take place at City Hall, the Erie Canal Museum, Onondaga Historical Association and other downtown locations after the tree lighting. Free. 473-4330. www.syracuse.ny.us.

Dickens Christmas in Skaneateles.

Syracuse Crunch. 7 p.m. The American

The Polar Express. Noon, 3 & 7 p.m. First

Noon-4 p.m.; Saturdays & Sundays through Dec. 22; also Dec. 24. Lakeside village fills with Victorian characters, horse-and-carriage rides, carolers, live music, roasted chestnuts and more merriment inspired by English author Charles Dickens. Village of Skaneateles, Route 20. Free. 685-0552.

Hockey League team faces St. John’s Ice Caps. War Memorial, 800 S. State St., Syracuse. $16-$20, plus applicable processing fees. 473-4444.

SATURDAY, NOV. 30 Family Train Day. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Children

of all ages can see the trains on the permanent layout as well as ones running loops on the floor, including Thomas and Friends. The Commons, Drivers Village, 5885 E. Circle Drive, Cicero. Free. 451-3199.

Dickens Christmas in Skaneateles.

Noon-4 p.m.; Saturdays & Sundays through Dec. 22; also Dec. 24. See Nov. 29 listing.

Snow White. 12:30 p.m. The Magic Circle

Children’s Theatre presents an original version of the fairy tale, in which children in the audience help save Snow White from the Queen’s sleeping spell. Children can dress up as fairy tale characters to enhance their fun. Spaghetti Warehouse, 689 N. Clinton St., Syracuse. $5. 449-3823. continued on page 30

Family Times December 2013

continued from page 29

A World of Puppets, Dec. 7

Secret Science Club. 3:30-5 p.m.; also Dec.

16. Each month kids in grades 6-9 do handson experiments based on themes in popular science-fiction books, including making hot air balloons and launching model rockets. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free. Registration required: 637-6374. www.fflib.org.

TUESDAY, DEC. 3 Grief Workshop. 3:30-5 p.m. Hospice of

Central New York and Hospice of the Finger Lakes present a workshop by Pat Moriarty on coping with grief during the holidays. St. James Episcopal Church, 96 E. Genesee St., Skaneateles. Free. 6341100.

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 4 Read, Sing, Play Storytime. 10 a.m.; also

Dec. 11 & 18. Children ages 2-5 with a caregiver can enjoy a program filled with stories, songs, rhymes and movement. Paine Branch Library, 113 Nichols Ave., Syracuse. Free. 435-5442.

Creation Club Junior. 4-5:30 p.m.; Part 2

on Dec. 11. Students in grades 3-5 will design and print a 3D object to go inside a snowglobe, then return in a week to complete the project. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free. Registration required: 637-6374. www.fflib. org.

SUNDAY, DEC. 1 Breakfast with Santa at the Zoo. 9 or 11

a.m.; also Dec. 7, 8, 14, 15 & 21. Enjoy a delicious breakfast while the kids share Christmas wishes with the jolly old elf, decorate cookies with Mrs. Claus and create a holiday craft. Rosamond Gifford Zoo at Burnet Park, 1 Conservation Place, Syracuse. Cost includes zoo admission: $14/general; free/ age 2 & younger. Reservations required: 435-8511, Ext. 113.

Grinch Day. 11 a.m. Kids can hear the book

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

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

Valley Christmas Tree Lighting. 4 p.m.

The tree is lit, Santa Claus drops by, and snacks and drinks are served. Sponsored by the Valley Men’s Club. Cecile Community Center, 174 W. Seneca Turnpike, Syracuse. Free. 492-3530.

How the Grinch Stole Christmas, take part in themed activities and enjoy cookies. Barnes & Noble, 3454 Erie Blvd. E., DeWitt. Free. 449-2948.

MONDAY, DEC. 2

Dickens Christmas in Skaneateles.

Sally’s Storytime. 10:30-11 a.m.; also Dec.

Noon-4 p.m.; Saturdays & Sundays through Dec. 22; also Dec. 24. See Nov. 29 listing.

3, 9, 10, 16 & 17. For ages 3-5. Maxwell Memorial Library, 14 Genesee St., Camillus. Free. 672-3661.

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Family Times December 2013

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

meeting of mothers and expectant mothers of multiples. Ruby Tuesday, 3220 Erie Blvd. E., DeWitt. Reserve: 308-0277.

THURSDAY, DEC. 5 The Music Man. 8 p.m. (preview); through

Dec. 21. In this musical, fast-talking salesman Harold Hill cons the people of River City, Iowa, into buying instruments and uniforms for a boys’ band he vows to organize. A cast of professional and local actors, and performers from a partnership with the Hillside Family of Agencies, Arc and Elmcrest Children’s Center, fills this production. Red House Arts Center, 201 S. West St., Syracuse. $15/ preview performance; $30/regular performance. 425-0405.

December 2013 Storytime. 10:30 a.m.; also Dec. 12, 19 & 26. A

The Nutcracker. 7 p.m.; also Dec. 7. Syracuse

lively mix of stories, songs and rhymes makes this a special time for parents and preschoolers. Betts Branch Library, 4862 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Free. 435-1940.

City Ballet artists perform the tale of a young girl and her dashing Nutcracker Prince. Mulroy Civic Center, 421 Montgomery St., Syracuse. $28.65$59.55/adult. 435-2121. www.ticketmaster.com.

Polar Express Storytime. 7 p.m. Kids can

FRIDAY, DEC. 6

put on pajamas and hear the Chris Van Allsburg book read, plus have some hot cocoa and cookies. Barnes & Noble, 3454 Erie Blvd. E., DeWitt. Free. 449-2948.

Preschool Storytime. 10:30 a.m.; also Dec.

12 & 19. Children ages 3-5 can hear stories, sing songs and enjoy finger play. Soule Branch Library, 101 Springfield Road, Syracuse. Free. 435-5320. Dec. 15. See trees, wreaths and special displays that create a winter wonderland. The event raises funds for the Everson Museum of Art. Everson Museum of Art, 401 Harrison St., Syracuse. $5/ adults; free/under 10; $10/combo ticket including The Art of Video Games admission. 474-6064.

All I Want for Christmas Is …! 7 p.m.;

Christmas Crafts. 10-11:30 a.m. Kids ages

Soule Road Craft Fair. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. More

Breakfast with Santa at Beaver Lake. 9

a.m.-noon; also Dec. 14. Enjoy a meal of pancakes, sausage and a drink. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. Breakfast: $3-$5/person. Admission: $3/vehicle for parking. Registration required: 638-2519.

through Dec. 15. The Covey Theatre Company presents this musical show about three youngsters who visit Santa Claus at the North Pole and learn that what you want is not always what you need. Mulroy Civic Center, 421 Montgomery St., Syracuse. $16. Tickets: www.thecoverytheatrecompany. com.

10 a.m.-5 p.m.; also Dec. 8. Dozens of crafters, as well as food and music. Nottingham High School, 3100 E. Genesee St., Syracuse. $2/adult; free/age 16 & younger or 65 & older. 472-5478.

The Music Man. 8 p.m.; through Dec. 21. See

SATURDAY, DEC. 7

ages 6 to 12 can hear holiday stories, make crafts and enjoy snacks. Hazard Branch Library, 1620 W. Genesee St., Syracuse. Free. 435-5326.

Plowshares Craftsfair and Peace Festival.

See Nov. 29 listing. Dec. 5 listing.

Storytime Fun. 3:30 p.m.; also Dec. 13. Kids

a.m.; also Dec. 8, 14, 15 & 21. See Dec. 1 listing.

6-12 can make crafts using paper, felt and other provided materials. Paine Branch Library, 113 Nichols Ave., Syracuse. Free. Registration required: 435-5442.

Syracuse Crunch. 7 p.m. Vs. Norfolk Admirals.

Festival of Trees. Noon-5 p.m.; daily, through

Breakfast with Santa at the Zoo. 9 or 11

Montezuma Birding Van Tour. 9 a.m.-

noon. Hop in the van for an excursion to the sanctuary’s birding hot spots and have a chance to see bald eagles, tundra swans, rough-legged hawks and more. Montezuma Audubon Center, 2295 Route 89, Savannah. $12.50/adult; $7.50/child. 365-3588.

than 120 crafters and vendors offer buyers a chance to finish their holiday shopping. Soule Road Elementary School, 8338 Soule Road, Liverpool. 289-6179.

Literature Live: The Grinch. 10 a.m.-8

p.m.; also Dec. 8. Beloved literary characters jump off the pages of books in this series; this weekend meet Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch. The Strong National Museum of Play, 1 Manhattan Square, Rochester. Admission: $13; free/younger than 2. (585) 2632700. www.museumofplay.org.

Festival of Trees. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; daily, through Dec. 15. See Dec. 6 listing.

continued on page 32

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Family Times December 2013

continued from page 31

Teddy Bear Tea. Noon-2 p.m. Children, teddy

bears and adults can enjoy food, entertainment, children’s crafts, and tea. Sponsored by the Everson Museum of Art. Oncenter, 800 S. State St., Syracuse. $25/adult; $20/child. Reservations required: 474-6064. www.everson.org.

Literature Live: The Grinch. Noon-5 p.m. See Dec. 7 listing.

Festival of Trees. Noon-5 p.m.; daily, through Dec. 15. See Dec. 6 listing.

Freckleface Strawberry. 2 p.m. See Dec. 7 listing.

All I Want for Christmas Is …! 2 p.m.; through Dec. 15. See Dec. 6 listing.

Carry Lazarus Presents Extraordinary … Live. 3 p.m. Performance

features some of Central New York’s most talented high school singers, musicians and dancers. A benefit for young artists. Landmark Theatre, 362 S. Salina St., Syracuse. $10. 475-7980.

A Holiday Festival of Carols. 4 p.m. Syr-

acuse Children’s Chorus performs this traditional concert including candlelight singing and yuletide carols, with the audience joining in for “Stille Nacht.” Most Holy Rosary Church, 111 Roberts Ave., Syracuse. $15-$22. 478-0582. www.SyracuseChildrensChorus.org.

MONDAY, DEC. 9 Toddler Dance Party. 10:30 a.m.; also Dec. 30. Toddlers, accompanied by a caregiver, can dance to tunes. Hazard Branch Library, 1620 W. Genesee St., Syracuse. Free. 435-5326.

Bluebird Music Together Demo Class.

Noon. Children from infants to kindergartners, with a caregiver, can discover the joys of live music. Fairmount Community Library, 406 Chapel Drive, Syracuse. Free. 440-2547.

Bluebird Music Together Demo Class, Dec. 9 Freckleface Strawberry, The Musical.

11 a.m. & 2 p.m.; also Dec. 8. Dormouse Theatrics presents this play based on the book by actress Julianne Moore, about a girl who wants to get rid of her freckles but learns they make her different and special. $15/age 13 & up; $12/ages 6-12; $10/age 5 & younger. Atonement Lutheran Church, 116 W. Glen Ave., Syracuse. 546-3224. www.DormouseTheatrics.org.

A World of Puppets. 11 a.m. Michelle

Costa of theatreFiguren performs “Star Mother’s Youngest Child.” International Mask and Puppet Museum, 518 Prospect Ave., Syracuse. $8. Reserve: 476-0466.

The Nutcracker. Noon & 5 p.m. See Dec. 6 listing.

Snow White. 12:30 p.m. See Nov. 30 listing. Sciencenter Showtime. 2 p.m. Learn about

black bears and find out how they keep warm. Sciencenter, 601 First St., Ithaca. Admission: $8/ adults; $7/seniors; $6/ages 3-17; free/under 3. (607) 272-0600.

The Music Man. 2 & 8 p.m.; through Dec. 21. See Dec. 5 listing.

Family Times December 2013

Polar Express Pajama Party. 5:30-8:30

p.m.; also Dec. 13 (sensory-friendly event) & 21. Kids can come in pajamas and make crystals and whistles, and concoct and eat liquid nitrogen ice cream. The movie The Polar Express is shown at 7 p.m. MOST (Museum of Science & Technology), 500 S. Franklin St., Syracuse. Party and movie ticket: $13.50/adults; $9.50/under age 12 or over 65. Reservations recommended: 425-9068, Ext. 2132. www.most.org.

All I Want for Christmas Is …! 7 p.m.; through Dec. 15. See Dec. 6 listing.

Syracuse Crunch. 7 p.m. Vs. Norfolk Admirals. See Nov. 29 listing.

SUNDAY, DEC. 8 Breakfast with Santa at the Zoo. 9 or 11 a.m.; also Dec. 14, 15 & 21. See Dec. 1 listing.

Plowshares Craftsfair and Peace Festival. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. See Dec. 7 listing.

Festival of Trees. Noon-5 p.m.; daily, through Dec. 15. See Dec. 6 listing.

TUESDAY, DEC. 10 Natural Holiday Decorations. 10 a.m. or

6 p.m. Make your own ornaments using natural materials and motifs. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. $15/person; $3/parking. Preregistration required: 638-2519.

Festival of Trees. Noon-5 p.m.; daily, through Dec. 15. See Dec. 6 listing.

Teen MOPS. 4-6 p.m. 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. 569-2542.

Little Makers: Make Snow. 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Children ages 5-8 can read a story and learn about snow, then make their own snow and snowflakes, indoors! Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free. Registration required: 637-6374.

December 2013 WEDNESDAY, DEC. 11 Bluebird Music Together Demo Class.

10:30 a.m. Children from infants to kindergartners, with a caregiver, can discover the joys of live music. Onondaga Free Library, 4840 W. Seneca Turnpike, Syracuse. Free. 440-2547.

Festival of Trees. Noon-5 p.m.; daily, through Dec. 15. See Dec. 6 listing.

Anime Night. 6-8 p.m. Teens in grades 7-12

can watch and discuss anime. There are drawing contests, refreshments, trivia and games. Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool. Free. 4570310. lpl.org.

The Music Man. 8 p.m.; through Dec. 21. See Dec. 5 listing.

THURSDAY, DEC. 12 MOMS Club of Syracuse-East. 9:30 a.m.

Gathering for local kids and moms. Manlius United Methodist Church, 111 Wesley St., Manlius. Free. 395-5009. http://momsclubofcuseeast.webs.com/.

Drop in For Crafts. 9:30 a.m.-8 p.m. Make

seasonal crafts with provided materials; for preschoolers to sixth-graders, with a caregiver. Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool. Free. 457-0310. lpl.org.

Festival of Trees. Noon-8 p.m.; daily, through

The Music Man. 8 p.m.; through Dec. 21. See Dec. 5 listing.

FRIDAY, DEC. 13 Festival of Trees. Noon-5 p.m.; daily, through Dec. 15. See Dec. 6 listing.

Festival of Lights. 6-8:45 p.m.; also Dec. 14,

20 & 21. Families board horse-drawn wagons for rides through the decorated park up to the clubhouse, decorated as the North Pole, where Santa waits to visit with youngsters and treats are provided. Burnet Park, Coleridge Avenue at Burnet Park Drive, Syracuse. Free. 473-4330.

Annie. 7 p.m.; through Dec. 21. Syracuse Chil-

Gingerbread Cookie Decorating. 3:30-

4:30 p.m. Children ages 6-12 can listen to the story of the Gingerbread Man and decorate their own cookies; cookies and decorations provided. Paine Branch Library, 113 Nichols Ave., Syracuse. Free. Registration required: 435-5442.

Holiday Family Fun Night. 5-8 p.m. Kids

dren’s Theatre presents the musical about the plucky orphan, with Mike Finn as Daddy Warbucks, Sofia Benderski in the title role, and four casts totaling 280 children. Mulroy Civic Center, 421 Montgomery St., Syracuse. $18.50/adults; $16.50/ senior citizens & students; $10/age 12 & younger. 432-KIDS. www.ticketmaster.com.

can visit with Santa, have milk and cookies, and put on temporary tattoos. KidzClub Indoor Play and Party Place, Three Rivers Plaza, 219 Route 57, Phoenix. $10/child ; free/adults & non-walking siblings. Register: 695-2211. www.kidzclubfun.com.

Mike Waters Talk & Signing. 7 p.m.

Sensory Friendly Time at the MOST.

through Dec. 15. See Dec. 6 listing.

5:30-7:30 p.m. Presented by CNY SPD Parent-Connections, it’s a chance for children with sensory processing disorders to experience the museum. This month’s session doubles as a Polar Express pajama party, with a chance to see the movie with the IMAX sound turned down. MOST (Museum of Science & Technology), 500 S. Franklin St., Syracuse. IMAX tickets: $9.50/adults; $7.50/ages 2-11 and senior citizens; cost for the event is $4 more per person. Reservations: 425-9068, Ext. 2132. www.most.org.

Author of Legends of Syracuse Basketball talks about this compendium of stories. Barnes & Noble, 3454 Erie Blvd. E., DeWitt. Free. 449-2948.

All I Want for Christmas Is …! 7 p.m.; The Music Man. 8 p.m.; through Dec. 21. See Dec. 5 listing.

SATURDAY, DEC. 14 Last Chance Run and Breakfast. 8:30-11

a.m. An 8-mile trail walk or run and an all-you-caneat breakfast. Highland Forest, Route 80, Fabius. Registration: $10/general; $5/under 12; $20/family maximum. Admission: $1/person. 449-9615.

Dec. 15. See Dec. 6 listing.

continued on page 34

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continued from page 33

Holiday Family Fun Night, Dec. 13

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Family Times December 2013

December 2013 Breakfast with Santa at the Zoo. 9 or 11 a.m.; also Dec. 15 & 21. See Dec. 1 listing.

Festival of Trees. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; daily, through Dec. 15. See Dec. 6 listing.

The Adventures of Rudolph. 11 a.m. In a

narrated ballet performed by students from Dance Centre North, Rudolph is again called upon to save Christmas, this time from an evil witch who has kidnapped the elves. Presented by CNY Arts. Mulroy Civic Center, 421 Montgomery St., Syracuse. $10-$19. 476-7372. www.cnyarts.org.

Pictures with Santa. 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Kids can listen to a musical family storytime, make a craft and get their pictures taken with Santa in front of the fireplace. Don’t forget your camera! Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free. 637-6374.

Woodwind Quintet. 2 p.m. See the Sym-

phoria quintet perform music for the whole family. Paine Branch Library, 113 Nichols Ave., Syracuse. Free. 435-5442.

Cupcakes ‘n’ Kinect. 2-4 p.m. Teens can decorate their own cupcakes to eat or take home, and also play Kinect. Paine Branch Library, 113 Nichols Ave., Syracuse. Free. Registration requested: 4355442.

Sciencenter Showtime. 2 p.m. Find out

what real physicists do. Sciencenter, 601 First St., Ithaca. Admission: $8/adults; $7/seniors; $6/ages 3-17; free/under 3. (607) 272-0600.

Theater performs “Grandfather Frost’s Stories of Russia.” International Mask and Puppet Museum, 518 Prospect Ave., Syracuse. $8. Reserve: 4760466.

Snow White. 12:30 p.m. See Nov. 30 listing. ly-friendly movie—with popcorn! Maxwell Memorial Library, 14 Genesee St., Camillus. Free. 672-3661.

Elf Puppet Workshop. 2 p.m. Kids ages 8-14

can make an elf puppet with an Open Hand Theater staffer. Betts Branch Library, 4862 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Free. Reservations required: 435-1940.

Syracuse Crunch. 7 p.m. Vs. Rochester Americans. See Nov. 29 listing.

A Family Christmas Pie. 7:30 p.m. Syracuse Vocal Ensemble performs; appearance by Dance Theater of Syracuse. Pie reception and family photo booth after concert. Holy Cross Church, 4112 E. Genesee St., DeWitt. $29/adults; $18/seniors; $5/ students; $40/two adults with children 12 & under. 687-9551.

listing.

SUNDAY, DEC. 15

The Music Man. 2 & 8 p.m.; through Dec. 21.

Breakfast with Santa at the Zoo. 9 or 11 a.m.; also Dec. 21. See Dec. 1 listing.

Gift Making. 2:30-4:30 p.m. Kids can make

Holidays with the Animals. 10 a.m.-3

Festival of Lights. 6-8:45 p.m.; also Dec. 20

p.m. Watch as animals throughout the zoo receive “presents”—new toys that give them a chance to play and demonstrate natural behaviors. Rosamond Gifford Zoo at Burnet Park, 1 Conservation Place, Syracuse. Admission: $8/adults (ages 19-61); $5/ over age 62; $4/ages 3-18; free/age 2 and younger. 435-8511.

creative gifts for family and friends; for ages 6 to 12. Hazard Branch Library, 1620 W. Genesee St., Syracuse. Free. 435-5326. & 21. See Dec. 13 listing.

Maxwell Family Movie. 1 p.m. A fami-

through Dec. 15. See Dec. 6 listing.

Annie. 2 & 7 p.m.; through Dec. 21. See Dec. 13

See Dec. 5 listing.

A World of Puppets. 11 a.m. Open Hand

All I Want for Christmas Is …! 7 p.m.;

Winter Solstice Concert. 7 p.m. Syracuse

Community Choir performs a family-friendly concert with the theme “Earth, Air, Fire, Water.” St. Paul’s Episcopal Cathedral, 310 Montgomery St., Syracuse. $15-$25/sliding scale for adults; free/children. 428-8151. Syracusecommunitychoir.org.

Festival of Trees. Noon-5 p.m. See Dec. 6 listing. continued on page 36

Christmas Trees

Open Nov. 29th 1850 Rte. 91, between Rt. 80 & 20 Pompey, NY • Cut your own and precut trees • Beautiful Fraser and Canaan Firs to 12 feet • $5 per foot, $25 minimum. Over 10 ft. $6/ft. • Fresh wreaths, roping & tree stands • Free wagon ride • Free baling & drilling • Farm store: Alpaca yarn, clothing/socks, local honey/maple syrup/local artisans Fridays: 1-5pm • Weekends: 9-5pm Weekdays by appointment 315-683-5860 www.springsidefarm.net

Memories that will last a lifetime!

Tune in Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2014, at 9:20 a.m., for columnist Maggie Simone’s preview of what’s in the next edition of Family Times!

WHAT: A performance featuring some of Central New York’s most talented high school singers, musicians and dancers WHEN: Sunday, December 8th at 3:00pm WHERE: Landmark Theater, Syracuse HOW MUCH: $10 ticket goes to fund to help young artists afford lessons, instruments and other opportunities

on the air with

Ted & Amy in the Morning

CALL 475-7980 to order tickets SEE YOU THERE!

Family Times December 2013

continued from page 35

Gingerbread House Creation. 2-4 p.m.

The Adventures of Rudolph, Dec. 14

All ages of participants can craft their own gingerbread house and decorate it with frosting and candy; materials provided. DeWitt Community Library, Shoppingtown Mall (below food court), 3649 Erie Blvd. E., DeWitt. Free. Registration required: 446-3578.

Annie. 2 p.m.; through Dec. 21. See Dec. 13 listing.

All I Want for Christmas Is â&#x20AC;Ś! 2 p.m. See Dec. 6 listing.

A Family Christmas Pie. 3 p.m. Syracuse

Vocal Ensemble performs; appearance by Dance Theater of Syracuse. Pie reception and family photo booth after concert. United Methodist Church, 604 Oswego St., Liverpool. $29/adults; $18/seniors; $5/ students; $40/two adults with children 12 & under. 687-9551.

MONDAY, DEC. 16 See Ongoing Events

TUESDAY, DEC. 17 Make a Wooden Christmas Tree. 6:30-8

p.m. Kids age 10 and older and adults can make a wooden Christmas tree decoration that lights up. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. $5/materials. Registration required: 637-6374.

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 18 Teen Decoupage. 6-8 p.m. Kids in grades

7-12 can learn how to decoupage using provided materials and keep what they design. Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool. Free. Registration required: 457-0310. lpl.org.

The Music Man. 8 p.m.; through Dec. 21. See Dec. 5 listing.

THURSDAY, DEC. 19 Cupcake Wars. 4:30 p.m. Kids ages 9-12 will

decorate cupcakes and compete for prizes. Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool. Free. Registration required: 457-0310. lpl.org.

The Music Man. 8 p.m.; through Dec. 21. See Dec. 5 listing.

FRIDAY, DEC. 20 Toddler Dance Party. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Kids

ages 18 months-5 years old, with caregivers, can dance with their friends. There will be musical instruments, bubbles and more. DeWitt Community Library, Shoppingtown Mall (below food court), 3649 Erie Blvd. E., DeWitt. Free. 446-3578.

Festival of Lights. 6-8:45 p.m.; also Dec. 21. See Dec. 13 listing.

Annie. 7 p.m.; through Dec. 21. See Dec. 13 listing.

Syracuse Crunch. 7 p.m. Vs. Binghamton Senators. See Nov. 29 listing.

The Music Man. 8 p.m.; through Dec. 21. See Dec. 5 listing. MATT HUTCHINSON PHOTO

Family Times December 2013

SATURDAY, DEC. 21 WINTER BEGINS Breakfast with Santa at the Zoo. 9 or 11 a.m. See Dec. 1 listing.

Annie. 10 a.m., 2:30 & 7 p.m. See Dec. 13 listing.

Snow White. 12:30 p.m. See Nov. 30 listing. Movie: Elf. 2 p.m. See the PG-rated holiday film on the big screen at Betts Branch Library, 4862 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Free. 435-1940.

Sciencenter Showtime. 2 p.m. Find out

what astronauts might eat on a Mars mission. Sciencenter, 601 First St., Ithaca. Admission: $8/ adults; $7/seniors; $6/ages 3-17; free/under 3. (607) 272-0600.

The Music Man. 2 & 8 p.m. See Dec. 5 listing. Festival of Lights. 6-8:45 p.m. See Dec. 13

Cocoa, Cookies and Christmas Classics. 2-3:30 p.m. Enjoy cocoa and cookies while watching How the Grinch Stole Christmas (1966, 26 minutes) and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964; 47 minutes). Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free. Registration required: 637-6374.

Family Holiday Comedy Spectacular. 2 & 7 p.m. Performers amuse, awe and mystify audiences with comedy, stunts and magic, featuring Wacky Chad, Wade Live and more. Volunteers can also get into the act. CNY Jazz Central, 441 E. Washington St., Syracuse. $12/adults; $8/children. http://familyholiday.eventbrite.com. 635-7752.

MONDAY, DEC. 23 See Ongoing Events

THURSDAY, DEC. 26 KWANZAA BEGINS Drop in For Legos. 3-8 p.m. Children ages 5-11 can create with Legos; Duplos available for preschoolers. Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool. Free. 457-0310. lpl.org.

FRIDAY, DEC. 27 Music and Face Painting. 2 p.m. Donna Butterfield presents an interactive music and story program. Central Library, Galleries of Syracuse, 447 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Free. 435-1900.

SATURDAY, DEC. 28 Snow White. 12:30 p.m. See Nov. 30 listing.

listing.

TUESDAY, DEC. 24

SUNDAY, DEC. 22

See Ongoing Events

Theater and Comedy Workshop. 11 a.m.

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 25

local birds and the Christmas Bird Count. Sciencenter, 601 First St., Ithaca. Admission: $8/adults; $7/seniors; $6/ages 3-17; free/under 3. (607) 2720600.

CHRISTMAS

Syracuse Crunch. 7 p.m. Vs. Norfolk Admirals.

& 4 p.m. Standup comedian Dan Frigolette leads a fun improv workshop for kids ages 5-17. CNY Jazz Central, 441 E. Washington St., Syracuse. $40/ two-hour workshop. Register: http://kidstheater. eventbrite.com. 635-7752.

See Ongoing Events

Sciencenter Showtime. 2 p.m. Learn about

See Nov. 29 listing. continued on page 38

Family Times December 2013

continued from page 37

Theatre and Comedy Workshop, Dec. 22

SUNDAY, DEC. 29

THURSDAY, JAN. 2

ONGOING EVENTS

See Ongoing Events

The Wizard of Ahs. 2 p.m. Ray Cerio per-

A Christmas Carol. Shows through Dec. 29. A

MONDAY, DEC. 30

Disney on Ice: Passport to Adventure.

Make Fun. 11 a.m.-2 p.m., daily through Jan. 3.

Drop in and make cool things at the library; ages 6 to 12. Hazard Branch Library, 1620 W. Genesee St., Syracuse. Free. 435-5326.

TUESDAY, DEC. 31 Noon Year’s Eve. 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Ring

in the new year at the zoo with crafts, games, and a ball drop and sparkling cider toast at noon. Rosamond Gifford Zoo at Burnet Park, 1 Conservation Place, Syracuse. Admission: $8/adults (ages 19-61); $5/over age 62; $4/ages 3-18; free/age 2 and younger. 435-8511.

First Night CNY. 5 p.m.-midnight. Walk

through Lights on the Lake and hear live outdoor music. A fireworks display concludes the event at midnight. Onondaga Lake Park, Onondaga Lake Parkway, Liverpool. Free. 471-9597.

forms magic. Central Library, Galleries of Syracuse, 447 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Free. 435-1900. 7 p.m.; through Jan. 5. Onondaga County War Memorial, 515 Montgomery St., Syracuse. $15-$65. 435-2121.

FRIDAY, JAN. 3 Disney on Ice: Passport to Adventure. 7 p.m.; through Jan. 5. See Jan. 2 listing.

SATURDAY, JAN. 4 Disney on Ice: Passport to Adventure. 11 a.m., 3 & 7 p.m.; through Jan. 5. See Jan. 2 listing.

SUNDAY, JAN. 5 Disney on Ice: Passport to Adventure. 11 a.m. & 4:30 p.m. See Jan. 2 listing.

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 1 NEW YEAR’S DAY See Ongoing Events

Family Times December 2013

music-driven adaptation of the Charles Dickens tale of holiday redemption. Syracuse Stage, 820 E. Genesee St., Syracuse. $30-$54/age 40 and older; $20/ under age 18; $35/under 40. Discounts for others available. 443-3275. www.SyracuseStage.org.

Lights on the Lake. 5-10 p.m., daily; through

Jan. 12. Drive through the annual light extravaganza featuring two miles of life-size displays, themed sections, animated scenes and the memorable grand finale. Onondaga Lake Park, Onondaga Lake Parkway, Liverpool. $10/car, Monday-Thursday; $15/car, Friday-Sunday. 453-6712.

Erie Canal Museum Gingerbread Gallery.

Daily, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; (Closed Dec. 25 & Jan. 1.); through Jan. 5. Dec. 24 & 31: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Street scene from the 1800s features more than 40 gingerbread houses made by amateurs and professionals. Erie Canal Museum, 318 Erie Blvd. E., Syracuse. $5/adults; $4/seniors; $2/age 12 & under. 471-0593, Ext. 15.

Horsedrawn Hay or Sleigh Rides. 11

a.m.-4 p.m.; weekends through March 3. Daily, Dec. 23-Jan. 1. Twenty-minute ride into the woods at Highland Forest, 1254 Highland Park Road (off Route 80), Fabius. $6/person; $3/age 5 & under. Registration required: 683-5550.

My child would never gamble Dickens Christmas in Skaneateles.

Noon-4 p.m., Saturdays & Sundays through Dec. 22; also Dec. 24. Lakeside village fills with Victorian characters, horse-and-carriage rides, carolers, live music, roasted chestnuts and more merriment inspired by English author Charles Dickens. Village of Skaneateles, Route 20. Free. 685-0552.

Critz Farms Holiday Traditions. Week-

ends, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; through Dec. 22. Wagon rides through tree fields to cut your own. Holiday items on sale in the gift shop and barn. Critz Farms, 3.5 miles south of Route 20 on Route 13, Cazenovia. Free admission. 662-3355. www.critzfarms.com.

Great Swamp Conservancy Nature Trails.

Daily, dawn to dusk. Visitors can grab their walking shoes (or snowshoes) and explore 4.5 miles of well-groomed, flat trails. Open year round. Cross-country skis and snowshoes for rent for $3/ day. 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. Hik-

ing 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. 4007 Bishop Hill Road, Marcellus. 673-1350.

Barnes & Noble Storytimes. Thursdays, 10 a.m. Join a storytime for toddlers and preschoolers that’s features a book, songs and coloring. Barnes & Noble, 3454 Erie Blvd. E., DeWitt. Free. 4492948.

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.

(Excluding holidays.) First Steps: (Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 9:30 a.m.) for children who are good walkers. Fabulous 4s and 5s: (Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m.) for preschoolers to get skills to prepare for reading. Terrific 2s and 3s: (Wednesdays,10:30 a.m.) kids can learn letters, sounds and words. Cuddletime: (Thursdays, 9:30 a.m.) for babies not yet walking and an adult. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free. 637-6374.

Petit Branch Library Storytimes. Tues-

days, 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.

Weekend Walks With a Naturalist. Sat-

urdays and Sundays, 2 p.m. Nature discovery hike with different topics each weekend. Beaver Lake Nature Center, Route 370, Baldwinsville. Admission: $3 per vehicle. 638-2519.

Syracuse Go Club. Every Monday, 7-10 p.m. Wegmans sit-down dining area, 6789 E. Genesee St., Fayetteville. Club devoted to the ancient Chinese game of Go; players of all ages. Free. 4799073.

Regional Market Farmers’ Market.

Saturdays, 7 a.m.-2 p.m. Shop seasonal produce, meat, fish, poultry, eggs, specialty foods and more on display throughout covered sheds; heated shops of Regional Market Commons feature gift and unique items including jewelry, paintings and home decor. Also, flea market, Sundays, 7 a.m.-3 p.m. 2100 Park St., Syracuse. 422-8647.

MUSEUMS Corning Museum of Glass. 1 Corning

Glass Center, Corning. Daily 9 a.m.-5 p.m. $14/ adults; free/age 19 and under. (607) 937-5371. Ongoing: You Design It, We Make It: Glassblowers choose from among designs submitted by young visitors and create that work on the spot.

wanna BET? It’s not just nickels and dimes...

Gambling is dangerous. What might seem like harmless fun at first can become an obsession; it’s addictive and can lead to other risky behaviors. More than financial health is at risk.

Erie Canal Museum. 318 Erie Blvd. E., Syra-

cuse. Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; closed holidays. Free. 471-0593. Interactive exhibit: Work the Weighlock. The Stonecutters: Exhibit reveals the fascinating world of the stonecutters and quarrymen who built the 83 locks and 18 aqueducts along the 363-mile Erie Canal.

Everson Museum of Art. 401 Harrison St.

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

H. Lee White Museum and Maritime Center. W. First St., Oswego. Monday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $7/adult; $3/teen; free/age 12 & under. 342-0480. Exhibits highlight more than 400 years of maritime history. Vessels on display include: New York State Derrick Boat 8 from the Canal System, schooner Ontario and Eleanor D, the last U.S. commercial fishing vessel to work Lake Ontario.

International Mask and Puppet Museum. 518 Prospect Ave., Syracuse. Fridays by appointment. First two Saturdays of the month, 10 a.m.-noon (October-April). 476-0466. Permanent collection includes masks, marionettes, shadow puppets and more.

Museum of Science and Technology (MOST). 500 S. Franklin St., Armory Square,

Syracuse. Tuesdays-Sundays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Museum admission: $8/adults; $7/seniors and ages 2-11. IMAX admission only: $9.50/adults; $7.50/children and senior citizens; additional show, $5/adults; $4/ children and senior citizens (473-IMAX). Combo museum and single-admission IMAX tickets: $12/ adults; $10/children and seniors. Planetarium (only available with museum admission): $2. 4259068. Hands-on science center features the Bristol Omnitheater, Science Playhouse, Earth Science Discovery Cave, Technotown, and Flight and Space Exhibit. Silverman Planetarium shows “Zoo in the Sky,” for kids under age 8, Saturdays, Sundays and school holidays, 11:15 a.m.; “Seasonal Sky” Saturdays, Sundays and school holidays, 3:15 p.m.

Onondaga Historical Association Museum. 321 Montgomery St., Syracuse.

Wednesday-Friday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Saturday & Sunday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Donation. 428-1864. Syracontinued on page 40

In Onondaga County 46% of students in grades 7-12 reported gambling last year.

Kids that gamble are: more likely to drink more likely to smoke more likely to be in trouble with the law For more information contact:

(315) 471–1359

www.PreventionNetworkCNY.org Family Times December 2013

DATE!

, April 5. y a d r u t Sa 3 p.m E SAVE TH

ter 10 a.mE.mpire Es,xSpyraocCuseen

continued from page 39

ground NYS Fair

cuse’s only comprehensive local history museum, with exhibits on architecture, local industries, transportation and more.

Rosamond Gifford Zoo at Burnet Park. 1 Conservation Place,

Syracuse. Daily, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. $8/adults; $5/senior citizens; $4/children; free/age 2 and younger. 435-8511. Ongoing attractions include Humboldt penguins.

about & meet repre tion se n ma ta r o f

Parks & Beaches

es from tiv

Ge t

Sciencenter. 601 First St., Ithaca. Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.;

Day Camps Sports Camps

Arts & Music Camps Overnight Camps

Educational Summer Programs

Amusement Parks Camp Grounds

Plan your summer fun (and have a ball) at Family Times’ annual Summer Fun Fair!

Museums Attractions!

Family Adventures Fun on -and in- the Water

Day-Trip Destinations

Sporting Events, Equipment & Rentals

Vacation Rentals

Fairs & Festivals

Concerts & Performing Arts

(315) 472-4669

sponsorship opportunities and booth & ad packages.

All Times Events, 1415 W. Genesee St., Syracuse, NY 13204

Sunday, noon-5 p.m. Admission: $8/adults; $7/seniors; $6/ages 3-17; free/ under 3. (607) 272-0600. www.sciencenter.org. Inspires people of all ages to discover the excitement of science through exhibits and programs.

Strong National Museum of Play. 1 Manhattan Square, Rochester. Admission: $13; free/younger than 2. (585) 263-2700. Permanent exhibits include National Toy Hall of Fame with inductees such as alphabet blocks, Barbie, Crayola crayons, G.I. Joe and the ever-versatile cardboard box. Also, super-sized kids’ market and more; lunch available at Bill Gray’s Skyliner Diner.

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 Dec. 4 for the January issue.

Just a Click Away! www.FamilyTimes.biz

Online Parenting Resources Available 24/7 40

Family Times December 2013

what’s on this year’s

Wish List?

Have your next event at Green Lakes Lanes! • Birthday Parties • Rehearsal Dinners • Fundraisers • Corporate Events • Anniversaries 7930 E. Genesee St., Fayetteville (315) 637-6000

Wear It Again Kids & Family Too! Come get the latest clothing and products for this season and save money while doing it! 5962 Rt 31, Cicero 288-4833

Find great toys and games you won’t find at mass market stores at the HABA Toy Outlet.

4407 Jordan Rd. Skaneateles (315) 685-6660. Open 6 days a week.

At North East Academy of Martial Arts we have many martial arts programs to choose from: Lil Dragons, Childrens Karate, Teen/Adult Karate, Cardio Kickboxing or Muay Thai Call 315-699-3866 or stop in at our Cicero location in Country Max Plaza, 5962 Rt. 31

CNY Gym Centre offers gymnastics training for all ages and abilities; recreational, competitive, special needs, parent plus tot and more! Shoppingtown Mall 3649 Erie Blvd. E., Dewitt • 437-4535

Throw a Glamour Party at Snip-Its! Or, choose from our other themes: Hollywood • Rock Star • Spa For all occasions parties at Snip-its are really snazzy! 5663 E Circle Dr Cicero • (315) 452-5437 www.snipits.com

Looking for holiday gift ideas? Come to Sweet Arrival! Baby clothes hand-rolled to resemble treats packaged in mini keepsake suicases. They make fabulous baby shower gifts!

Great Northern Mall 4155 St. Rte 31, Liverpool • 622-4600 www.cnygymcentre.com

Downtown Dance Studio School of Ballet & Dance Education 300 W. Gensee St., Syracuse 422-7500 www.dds-syr.com

(315) 632-0186 www.sweetarrival.com

Celebrate Christmas with us at Gigi’s Playhouse Syracuse! December 7 • 4-6pm Stay for the Polar Express from 6-8PM 5885 E. Circle Dr., Suite 250, Cicero Open to all & fun for all ages!

www.gigisplayhouse.org/syracuse Family Times December 2013

BACK PACK

To advertise call 472-4669 and press 2. January Issue Deadline: Dec. 12, 2013

CLASSIFIED DIRECTORY

Pet ServiceS

activitieS body recognition class

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

after ScHool

HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA FROM HOME. 6-8 weeks ACCREDITED. Get a diploma. Get a job.1800-264-8330 www.diplomafromhome.com.

emPloyment Looking for RN’S-immediate

placement in a correctional facility in your area. 1 year exp. req’d, ER exp. a plus. Apply today 866-387-8100 ext 202 or email: recruit@whiteglovecare.net

Sunshine Horses,Inc

***VOLUNTEERS NEEDED*** IN CENTRALSQUARE Re-homing CNY’s horses for over 10 years Experience encouraged, but not required. www.sunshinehorses.org

ServiceS DirecTV - Over 140 channels only $29.99 a month. Call Now! Triple savings! $636.00 in Savings, Free upgrade to Genie & 2013 NFL Sunday ticket free!! Start saving today! 1-800-270-9140.

HealtH & WellneSS Marriage & Family Therapist

Onondaga Youth Hockey

Now accepting season registrations for players and goalies ages 4-18. www.eteamz.com/oyha

Emily Souve, M.A., LPMFT CNY Marriage & Family Therapy Place Emily.souve@yahoo.com/315-454-2454

leSSonS Horseback Riding Lessons Bylund Hill Stables Jen Bylund 315-391-7559 www.CazenoviaHorses.com Jen@bylundstables.com

artiStS

muSic Family Variety Entertainment

ALL child & family friendly events offering: magic, balloons, juggling, puppetry, clowns, escape artistry, storytelling & more!! Early booking discount ** 414-459-9264 marcthezani@gmail.com / marcthezani.com

automotive $18/Month Auto Insurance - Instant Quote - Any Credit Type Accepted - Get the Best Rates In Your Area. Call (800) 869-8573 Now. AUTOS & TRUCKS

WANTED!! TOP $$$ PAID CALL US 1ST ~ 278-5801

educational ServiceS Attend College

online from home *Medical, *Business, *Criminal Justice, *Hospitality. Job placement assistance. Computer available. Financial aid if qualified. SHEV Authorized. 800-494-3586 www.CenturaOnline.com

Family Times December 2013

!!! Used Music Instruments Fall Sale !!!

Why Pay Rent when you can play for Keeps? Appts. only please: 315-478-7840 contact@signaturemusic.org www.signaturemusic.org

Five Star Clutter Removal

315-952-5280 residential snow removal-city of Auburn www.fivestarclutterremoval.com

John’s Professional Window Cleaning Residential & Commercial ~ 315-451-6712 FULLY INSURED www.professionalwindowcleaning.com

Painting, Remodeling, Flooring, door & window

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

SNOWPLOWING

RESIDENTIAL and COMMERCIAL Call (315) 727-0141 BH Enterprises

What’s in our Back Pack Giveaway? Complimentary Registration ($100 value) Onondaga Youth Hockey Initiation to Hockey Session #2 - Starts January 5, 2014 Visit www.eteamz.com/oyha for full schedule To enter: Send all contact information to promotions@familytimes.biz with “OYHA” in the subject line. Entry deadline December 15, 2013

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Family Times December 2013

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A Great Holiday Gift for your Child or Grandchild