Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent July/August 2016 by RocParent

Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent â&#x20AC;˘ July/August 2016

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Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent â&#x20AC;˘ July/August 2016

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JULY/AUGUST 2016

INSIDE Vol.23 Number 4

A Heavenly Haven for Animals

A VISIT TO THE WATKINS GLEN FARM SANCTUARY

more features

12 Take a Walk on

the Wild Side of Western New York

18 All About Art –

22 Secrets of Creative

THE IMPORTANCE OF VISUAL ARTS IN LEARNING & DEVELOPMENT

Families – 10 WAYS TO ENCOURAGE CREATIVE KIDS

46 | C ALENDAR OF EVENTS + July Events + August Events + Summer Fairs & Festivals

on the cover

62 | FIVE PLACES All Things Art

181 Things To Do in July & August Take a Walk on the Wild Side A Visit to the Watkin's Glen Farm Sanctuary The Importance of Visual Arts 10 Ways to Encourage Expressive Kids How to Create Your Own Little Free Library

this month's contributors

that can be found in the Finger Lakes region. [Page 10 & 24]

SUE HENNINGER is a monthly contributor to Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent who enjoys writing about the unique people, places, and events

DEBRA JACOBSON is a Rochester freelance writer with degrees in early childhood education and communication/journalism. [Page 18]

Author, journalist, and writing coach CHRISTINA KATZ wrote this article when she wasn't shuttling her daughter back and forth to school and dance classes.[Page 22] DEENA VIVIANI is a

46 12 26 18 22 34

Rochester-based Young Adult Services Librarian who writes reviews for VOYA and the RACWI Newsletter. [Page 20] MALIA JACOBSON is an award-winning health and parenting journalist and mom of three. [Page 32]

LARA KRUPICKA, along with her husband and daughter, created and installed a Little Free Library at their home. They love watching books disappear from their library and new ones appearing. [Page 34]

Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent • July/August 2016

ONLINE

july + august

WHAT YOU CAN FIND AT WWW.ROCPARENT.COM SWEET SUMMERTIME

This July & August you can find online exclusive summer content like where to pick blueberries, our best summer activities and much more!

FAMILY FAVORITE WINNERS ANNOUNCED! We asked and you answered! From favorite museum to favorite place to get ice cream, we asked local parents to give us the scoop on the best that Rochester has to offers. We’ve tallied the results and you can now find the list of our Family Favorite Award Winners on our website at www.RocParent.com

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BEST SUMMER EVER Summer is here! Grab the kids and the car keys and get ready to explore all that the Rochester and Upstate New York area has to offer. Each day we’ll highlight a new activity for your family. From museums and cultural attractions to beaches and beyond, our ultimate summer fun guide is here to help you make this the BEST SUMMER EVER.

GREAT GIVEAWAYS

Summer is here and so are our awesome giveaways to enjoy getting out and about in the Rochester area. Check out and enter to win tickets to: • Red Wings home games • Rhinos Soccer games • Roseland Park • Wake Pake • Seabreeze Park • and more....

Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent â&#x20AC;˘ July/August 2016

EDITOR'S NOTE

Staff

By Jillian Melnyk

PUBLISHER Barbara Melnyk mail@GVParent.com

kindness & care T WHAT’S ON YOUR MIND? Email our Publisher, Barbara: mail@GVParent.com Email our Editor, Jillian: editor@GVParent.com

here has been a lot of news lately about what it means to offer kindness, protection and care to animals. We’ve been asking ourselves questions about what place animals have in our society and what role we have in protecting them. This month, we offer two great articles that share information about how to care for and show compassion for our animal friends – one about rescued farm animals and the other about animals in the wild. It’s important to remember that we aren’t alone on this planet and we can’t go around functioning as if we are. It’s essential to respect and care for the other creatures around us and to teach our children at a young age about the importance of respecting what lives around us. This summer, while you travel around and enjoy the rest of your vacation activities, be kind to each other, but remember to be kind to the animals, too.

With love,

jillian 8

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EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Jillian Melnyk editor@GVParent.com ONLINE EDITOR Carol Harvey ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Ken Stevens CREATIVE DIRECTOR Jillian Melnyk graphics@GVParent.com CALENDAR EDITOR calendar@GVParent.com DISTRIBUTION Northstar Delivery Basic subscription rate: $25/year. Send subscription inquiries and changes to address below. Copyright 2016, by GVP, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. Distribution of this magazine does not necessarily constitute an endorsement or necessarily reflect the opinions of this publication.

HOW TO CONTACT US:

Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent Magazine P.O. Box 25750 Rochester, NY 14625 p: 585-348-9712 www.RocParent.com mail@gvparent.com

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Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent â&#x20AC;˘ July/August 2016

BUZZWORTHY IN TOWN

2016 WXXI/PBS KIDS WRITERS CONTEST WINNERS ANNOUNCED WXXI is proud to announce its 12 local winners in the annual WXXI/PBS Kids Writers Contest. The Writers Contest encourages children in grades Kindergarten through 3rd in communities across the region to celebrate the power of creating stories and illustrations by submitting their own original pieces. The 12 winners were selected by a panel of judges who chose them from a number of local contest entries.

The winners for the 2016 WXXI/PBS Kids Writers Contest are: Kindergarten 1st Place: Kyle S. – Rush, NY – “Flick and the Bad Alien” 2nd Place: Delilah A. – Fairport, NY – “Magical Buttons” 3rd Place: Ellie R. – Hilton, NY – “Fuchsia the Princess” 1st Grade 1st Place: Jodi M. – Victor, NY – “Moose Kisses” 2nd Place: Lyla B. – Rochester, NY – “The Golden Plum” 3rd Place: Samantha M. –

Victor, NY – “The Ice Cream and the Job” 2nd Grade 1st Place: Alec Xander B. – Arkport, NY – “One Day at a Shelter” 2nd Place: Lillyanna B. – Rochester, NY – “The Scary Treasure Hunt” 3rd Place: Rebecca C. – Fairport, NY – “All About Me” 3rd Grade 1st Place: Rebecca M. – Victor, NY – “Rumpleschoolskin”

2nd Place: Olivia B. – Webster, NY – “The Case of the Missing Diamond” 3rd Place: Alexander W. – Rochester, NY – “My Dream” All kids who submitted a story received a certificate of participation, and each winner of this year’s contest also received a backpack full of summer learning resources. Visit http://interactive.wxxi. org/kids/writers to see these creative stories and imaginative artwork.

GRANTS FOR JEWISH SUMMER FUN AND LEARNING BENEFIT 69 AREA STUDENTS

The Farash Institute for Jewish Education announces that its very first grant initiatives – those for both its Freddy Fund and One Happy Camper summer programs – have had an outstanding response from the

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community that has resulted in awarding $116,279 to 69 area children. “Our inaugural year has proven to be hugely successful for these new programs. We are very encouraged by the

enthusiasm with which they have been embraced by our community,” says Institute Board Chair Richard Goldstein. “Besides being the best way to build life-long Jewish learning and identity, which are the overarching goals, immersive summer programs also help kids to acquire confidence and other valuable life skills – all while just having fun.” Funded by a grant of $880,000 from the Max and Marian Farash Charitable Foundation in 2014, the Farash Institute’s One Happy Camper program offers incentive grants of up to $1,800 for first-time campers throughout nine counties of the Greater Rochester area to attend a Jewish not-for-profit

overnight camp. The program is a partnership with the Foundation for Jewish Camp (www. onehappycamper.org), and is currently offered in more than 40 North American communities for campers in grades two through 12. Camps are located all over the U.S. and Canada, and some have specific interests ranging from science and farming to service and special needs. In all, the Max and Marian Farash Charitable Foundation has invested more than $1 million in the Institute’s summer programs, and is thrilled with its tangible success. To learn more visit farashinstitute.org or call (585) 434-2700, ext. 203.

DO YOU KNOW AMERICA'S NEXT TOP YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR? The Young Entrepreneurs Academy teaches kids ages 11-18 how to turn their passions, skills and talent into great business ideas. YEA! provides students the instruction on how to come up with a big idea, pitch that idea and get real funding. Students will graduate YEA! as the CEO of their own, real, legally registered business. Do you know a student with the determination and creativity to succeed in the Academy? In Rochester, YEA! classes are offered once a week, after school from October through May at the University of Rochester and at the Excellus BlueCross BlueShield headquarters downtown. Apply today at yeausa.org.

YEA! Graduate, Rachel Zietz, 15 years old “I am a lacrosse player. In YEA! I learned how to take my love of lacrosse and improve the game with my own line of lacrosse re-bounders and goals. I got real funding and launched Gladiator Lacrosse in YEA!. Two years later I have passed the million dollar mark in sales, and pitched to the “sharks” on ABC TV’s “Shark Tank!” View more student success stories and apply online at yeausa.org!

Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent • July/August 2016

// FEATURE STORY //

WORDS SUE HENNINGER

take a walk on the w ild side OF WESTERN NEW YORK

othing beats a summer road trip! July and August are the perfect months to head west toward Buffalo and check out two of these great park discoveries.

IROQUOIS NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE / IMAGE COURTESY USFWS

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IROQUOIS NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE / IMAGE COURTESY USFWS

Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge The History

Established in 1958 through the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (which protects migratory species), the Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge (INWR) has the reputation of being one of the best kept secrets of western New York. Located midway between Rochester and Buffalo, this 11,000 acre park, called “Alabama Swamp” by locals, is worth a visit by anyone who loves spending quality time off the beaten path. Refuge Manager Tom Roster has twenty five years of experience in Fish and Wildlife Refuges, eleven of which he’s spent at INWR. Tom explains that there are 560 National Wildlife Refuges in the United States amounting to 100 million acres of protected land! The western New York park has two primary purposes. “The main reason we’re here is to benefit the wildlife,” Tom explains. With its varied native habitats IF YOU GO that include forested Iroquois National wetlands, grasslands, Wildlife Refuge brushland, emergent 1101 Casey Road, Basom, NY marshes, and transi(585) 948-5445 tional area, the park www.fws.gov/refuge/Iroquois/ is an ideal sanctuary • Trails are open daily from for about 260 species dawn to dusk. The Visitor of birds. Bald eagles, Center is open Monday-Frisandhill cranes, great day from 7:30 am to 4pm blue herons, and • Admission is free egrets are some of the more unusual birds that you might run across during your visit. The secondary purpose of INWR is to encourage public use for recreational activities, environmental education, and BEAVER LAKE NATURE

Rock City Park 505 Route 16, Olean, NY (866) 404-7625 www.rockcitypark.com/ • Open May 1-October 31 9am to 6pm daily • Admission is $5/person, $3/children 6-12, five and under free CENTER

CONTINUED >>> Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent • July/August 2016

for INWR beyond its physical boundaries.

IROQUOIS NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE / IMAGE COURTESY USFWS

photography. The park is supported in this by a nonprofit organization, Friends of Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge, Inc. These dedicated volunteers fundraise, sponsor nature-related events, and maintain the trails, along with many other essential tasks. “They’re our biggest asset because many of them are part of the local community,” Tom says. He adds that the Friends and other refuge volunteers log about six to seven thousand hours of work a year, in addition to supporting and advocating

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offering plenty of opportunities to see a diversity of wildlife. If you’re quiet We want to and observant you’ll ensure that people What to Do probably encounter now, and in future There ducks, geese, baskgenerations, have the Your first stop ing turtles, snakes, opportunity to be should be the turkey vultures, and recently remodexposed to nature and rabbits. If you’re eled Visitor Center lucky you may even to enjoy it." where you can spot a deer or a fox, – TOM ROSTER, REFUGUE browse through the he says. Life on the MANAGER AT IROQUOIS exhibits, look at the refuge tends to be quietNATIONAL WILDLIFE Great Lakes Fish Tank, er in the summer, but July REFUGE and get a general overview and August are ideal months of the habitats and wildlife in the to see a lot of eagle activity around park. You can also pick up a trail map the nests where the immature eagles flex and checklist of things you might see, and their wings as they learn to fly. borrow a pair of binoculars if you forgot to bring your own. Long-term Benefits There are four main trails on the A day trip to INWR is a great way for refuge. Feeder Road and Onondaga are families to get out of the city and reconnect basic in and out walking trails. Accordwith the land around them. “We want ing to Tom, Kanyoo is the most popular refuge trail for younger children and school to ensure that people now, and in future generations, have the opportunity to be groups because it has two loops of varying exposed to nature and to enjoy it,” Tom distance and interpretive signage. Swalasserts. He notes that encouraging young low Hollow is his favorite hike because it people to be land stewards and consermeanders through several habitats and has vationists is key to achieving this goal. an elevated boardwalk through the marsh,

“

Spending time outdoors fosters an appreciation of plants and wildlife that translates into being more conscious of choices you make in your everyday life, he explains. Examples of this might be recycling rather than throwing everything in the trash, or not using pesticides that impact pollination. Another is coming to view the landscape around you differently. Some might look at the brush on the refuge and find it ugly but it provides an essential habitat for many creatures. “Not everything is a perfect green lawn,” Tom declares. Last but not least? “You may even decide to work for us!” he says.

Special Programs

INWR has regularly scheduled bird walks, owl prowls, and photography programs, all of which are designed to help people of all ages become familiar with native plants and species. Other programs are the Youth Fishing Derby (all ages) held each June, the Young Waterfowler’s Program, and the Youth Turkey Hunt (ages 12-15). Additionally there’s an annual “Spring into Nature” celebration featuring children's activities to “welcome spring back to the swamps."

Rock City Park The History

Unusual rock formations drew me to this park, located about an hour south of Buffalo. What I wasn’t prepared for was the rich vein of history that weaves through it. Dale Smith who, along with his wife Cindy, has owned Rock City for the past fourteen years, was quick to fill me in with the details. The park first became popular as a vacation destination in the 1890’s. Dale explains that there was an easily-accessible electric trolley system that ran the nearly hundred mile radius between New York and Pennsylvania, transporting guests to Olean’s glamorous Bon Air Hotel. The hotel sported a lecture hall, a shooting gallery, and a dance pavilion. Two of its more notable patrons included the last heavyweight champion of bare-knuckle boxing, John L. Sullivan, and John Phillip Sousa along with his band. With the arrival of the automobile and readily-accessible entertainment like movies, park attendance dropped until the 1950’s, when Rock City experienced a revival as a tourist attraction. Having spent the majority of their working lives running the family hardware business, Cindy and Dale purchased Rock City when they retired as a way to relax and enjoy nature. “We meet interesting people every day,” Dale declares. “We get tourists from places like Connecticut, Tennessee, and Minnesota, and even Switzerland.” There’s plenty of local interest in Rock City as well, between school field trips

ROCK CITY PARK / IMAGE COURTESY KAREN-LEE DUQUETTE

and people who used to live in the area bringing their friends and family members back to see the unusual formations.

What to do There

According to Dale, Rock City is the largest outcropping of a quartz conglomerate (a sedimentary rock with quartz pebbles in it) in the United States. “Some formations are as big as a house,” he says. “It’s a spectacular sight; kids love it!” Stop at the main building and pick up a trail guide when you arrive. This is also a good time to check out the continuously-playing movie that

features both a brief history of the park and a virtual tour of some of its highlights. The hike around the park is about a mile and not too strenuous, though you should wear comfortable walking shoes. Once you venture onto the outdoor trail, some of the formations you’ll see include the “Fat Man Squeeze” where you have to push yourself through two giant boulders, the “Dining Hall Pass” which is an open-ended cave, and “Map of New York” a rock formation that Dale says looks just like New York State. His favorite stop on the path is “Three Sisters.” “It’s the most eye-catching,” he says. “It’s a giant formation that’s CONTINUED >>>

Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent • July/August 2016

very picturesque; a good place for family photos.” Towering rocks may not be the only thing you see at Rock City. There are plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing as well. Chipmunks and native birds abound and many visitors have spotted rabbits and porcupines. If you’re more into plants, Dale says there are nice patches of mountain laurel to enjoy, along with sassafras trees. His grandson even makes walking sticks out of the sassafras limbs and sells in the gift shop. The shop also has semi-precious stones and fossils, t-shirts, sweatshirts, and various other souvenirs. There is a food vendor or you can bring a picnic lunch to enjoy after the hike. Leashed pets are welcome. The park closes in inclement weather, so call ahead if you have any doubts.

Special Events

Rock City Park hosts two events each year. Each spring there’s an Arts and Crafts Show. In October, they hold a Gem and Mineral Show which Dale says is especially popular with children. Kids are intrigued by the colors and shapes of the many rocks, minerals, and gems, but there is one activity that invariably thrills them the most. You can purchase a geode from a vendor who then uses a special tool to crack it open right in front of you. There’s something unique and surprising inside every one and Dale notes that the novelty never seems to wear off!  Sue Henninger is a freelance writer who enjoys writing about the unique people, places, and events that can be found in the Finger Lakes Region and beyond. Contact her at SueHenninger.com & via email at sue@suehenninger.com

ROCK CITY PARK / IMAGE COURTESY KAREN-LEE DUQUETTE

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Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent â&#x20AC;˘ July/August 2016

// FEATURE STORY //

WORDS DEBRA JACOBSON

all about art THE IMPORTANCE OF VISUAL ARTS IN LEARNING & DEVELOPMENT

s parents we make decisions early on in our children’s lives that have a huge impact on their development. Many parents think only of math, science, history and the English language as the focus of their child’s education. But visual arts (drawing, painting, photography, 2-D and 3-D objects) are also important for healthy development — particularly during grades K-6.

Many traits are developed early on whichcontribute to skills and experiences that increase confidence and develop mature, thoughtful and capable adults. Research shows that American creativity is declining, and this decline is most evident in children in grades K-6. How does a child learn and

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develop through the visual arts? Here are but a few of the many ways:

Early Expression

“Drawing precedes written work,” says Judy Gohringer, artist and retired K-12 art teacher, Rochester City School District.

“Children internalize a thought or experience when they use their hand to draw it.” Gohringer compares it to yoga — internalizing a new concept or experience happens when it is done with the mind and body together.

Early stages of a child’s development utilize art as a way of showing what they can’t quite yet articulate. This is their way of communication and self-expression. As adults, we often look at the end result whereas a child focuses on the reflective, analysis process. Their work in the visual arts demonstrates their reaction to real events, stories they have heard or experiences they have had. As a parent we can choose to pay IMAGE COURTESY YOUNG attention to this AUDIENCES ARCHIVES and encourage this expression. Early drawings usually represent the child himself, what he is doing and how he feels. Notice and perhaps even ask the child a few questions. What else is in the picture? Who else is shown? Ask her to title it or write or say a few words to describe it. A parent shouldn’t tell the child to be creative, as this might contribute to the child freezing up, or being self-conscious. Children are innately creative on their own. Rather offer an experience or idea and supply the materials; create the time and space and it will happen. Discuss their work with them and glean what they are expressing through their work. Use this as a form of communication with them, encouraging them to have a dialogue about it if they want to.

Confidence

When art teachers present a project to their classes, some kids may think they can’t complete it. The same may be true at home when a parent and child work on an artistic project together. Consider doing it in short periods of time and see it as a process. When the child does finish the project and sees the final piece, it encourages a sense of accomplishment, pride and ownership. Maureen Lockner, Visual Arts Teacher, Genesee Community Charter School (Grades K-6) shares an example of a child in her class who gained empowerment and independence by trying time and time again to complete something successfully. The task was to make a flat paper stand up without using tape, only scissors and paper. After four or five tries he finally got it and the entire classroom table of children cheered and clapped! He felt a great sense of accomplishment.

Physical Coordination

Small and large muscle development is imperative to learning (See Sir Ken Robinson’s Ted Talks). “If you are not moving you are not learning,” says Lockner. “Effort, enthusiasm, expresCONTINUED >>> Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent • July/August 2016

sweeping versus holding them up. They then note the difference, or perhaps they push down harder to see what happens.

Important social skills are learned through the visual arts. Lydia BodWork Habits & die-Rice, artist, CEO of Young Audiences Responsi(YA) and former bility Children RGE, ManagTeaching internalize a thought or er of Public kids early Affairs and experience when they use on about Corporate appreciattheir hand to draw it." Contributions, ing other’s recently held – JUDY GOHRINGER, ARTIST AND RETIRED K-12 works of art ART TEACHER, ROCHESTER CITY SCHOOL a workshop carries over to DISTRICT on doodling the workplace (Doodle Share) at as an adult. In art her alma matter, Brown there is no right or University. She learned that wrong – just one individadults often forget how to play and rid ual’s interpretation. Learning that simple themselves of the judgmental mindset. She principle assists in the ability to later trust showed visuals of graffiti on a wall, painted that others will accept one's own ideas, fingernails, sidewalk doodles, and more to expressions, and thoughts and to likewise prove that doodling is everywhere. After listen to others’ ideas. Creating art together a quick 5 seconds of visuals, participants in the classroom rids embarrassment and were asked to draw a shape, switch papers, judgment and places kids all in the same draw another shape and keep switching. playing field. Additionally, responsibilities The results were varied, creative and such as sharing with others, caring for materials and cleaning up are introduced early surprisingly free from concept of intellect. Something so simple proved to be a form through classroom and home art projects. of stimulating self-expression. Boddie-Rice

“

IMAGE COURTESY YOUNG AUDIENCES ARCHIVES

siveness are all outcomes of movement.” Deskwork in art (coloring sheets, cutting shapes, etc.) should not be discounted, however they are less complex and effective in overall creative growth and reasoning. Lockner uses large motor skills by having her class hold their paintbrushes down and

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Appreciation of Others & Their Individuality

calls these “brain breaks” and “warm-ups” and highly suggests this type of exercise for children. Boddie-Rice’s work through Rochester’s Young Audiences is broad and impressive. The strength of YA is in the fact that it is not a technique-driven organization. It brings the field trip to the classroom by offering talented multi-disciplinary artists that meet the kids where they are in their process.

Problem-Solving & Decision-Making Opportunities

“We need to offer children more opportunities for out-ofthe-box thinking, which is also called non-rule-governed thinking,” states Gohringer. She believes open-ended learning is key in assisting the exploration a child’s needs to develop creativity and problem solving techniques. By introducing a project that has more than one result, answer or outcome, a child embarks on the world of creative thinking, problem solving, and individual contribution. Recognizing space, dimension, and how components in a visual art piece are framed is a key developmental stage. Fitting components into a larger picture, layering or overlapping is all part of the decision-making process. Boddie-Rice reflected on her own educational path and how she conquered geometry not based on theory but on mastering the constructions — the creative experiences and learned way of thinking — from early artistic exploration. She attributes the development of divergent, creative thinking and the ability to see the total, to her mastery of geometry. These same powerful tools also laid the foundation for handling executive operational management tasks.

Abstract Thinking

Michele Cardulla, Publisher of Lake Affect Magazine and Teaching Artist for Young Audiences, likes to combine reading a story or showing a short film that pertains to the art project children are about to embark on. “It’s pairing — like adults pair a good wine with the meal that follows,” says Cardulla. She encourages abstract thinking by layering multiple pieces onto one finished project. Her recent project at Louis A. Cerulli School #34 in Rochester focused on the theme of horses and the Native American culture. Children used abstract thinking by drawing or placing cut out paper – a circle around the eye helped the horse see better, for instance. Or lightening bolts on their legs made them run faster. Her “Meatless Mondays” program introduces abstract connections. By creating artistic pizzas with layered cutout materials the finished work represents “meatless” toppings and the concept of healthy eating. Each creation is unique, colorful and introduces the choice these kids have on becoming “meatless” after studying how this impacts their lives and the world around them. Rochester offers endless ideas for daily in-home or weeklong programs for kids to explore art. Let your kids become intense art makers and see what gifts they naturally possess or certainly are capable of developing.  Debra Jacobson is a Rochester freelance writer with degrees in early childhood education and communication/journalism. She owns and operates her own art business and sells her work locally. Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent • July/August 2016

// FEATURE STORY //

WORDS CHRISTINA KATZ

secrets of creative families 10 WAYS TO ENCOURAGE EXPRESSIVE KIDS

ometimes a parent's "the-arts-just-aren't-necessary" attitude can tragically squelch a young person's creative aspirations. Whereas a parent who is too gung-ho about a child's talents, may not realize that hijacking dreams robs a child of healthy feelings of ownership and independence. Fortunately, many parents find the balanced middle. They figure out how to quietly stand behind a young person's aspirations without taking over, and find ways to supportively usher their child towards creating a colorful future. As parents of creative kids, how can we banish black-and-white, all-or-nothing thinking about the arts, and tap into our expressive parenting power instead? Here are ten tips that will help you encourage your kids to create the future that best suits them.

Be creative yourself.

Want creative kids? Start by being creative yourself. Before you can encourage your child to pursue her creative dreams, you have to

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nurture your own dreams. I work at home as a writer, an author, and a writing coach. My home office is an explosion of creative accomplishments. My husband is a theater actor, director, and producer. His program mounts three or four theatrical productions a year. Our daughter has also developed her own creative hobbies over the years, like singing, dancing, acting, designing, and drawing.

Encourage hobbies.

If last year's hobby was knitting and this year's hobby is painting, that's fine. Never force your kids to continue hobbies that no longer interest them. As long as the supplies are affordable and the experience is enriching, variety is good. And when a hobby sticks around, that works, too. Hobbies need to be about the joy of doing. The last thing a hobby should be about is perfection or competition. If you are overly involved in your child's hobbies, take a step back. That's their thing. Why not find your own?

Expose your family to the arts.

Art appreciation can be a family affair without becoming expensive. Surely you are not the only family in the neighborhood interested in exposing your family to culture. Team up with other families attend shows and events at group discount rates. Check local museums for free days and local theaters for meet-the-actors shows. You can also find cultural opportunities through the public library, in local theaters, at the local community center, via local schools and colleges, and by taking advantage of special broadcasts at your local movie theater. (Our monthly calendar of events -- www.rocparent. com/calendar -- is full of upcoming performances and arts-related events!)

Make room for imagination.

The magic of creativity often happens in private. How often do you all scatter to your own corners of the house to read, create, or simply have some space for imagination? Forget the idea that positive results only come from measured formulas and strictly followed recipes. Heights of beauty and transformation in art are often achieved through immersion in an imaginative process. Structured arts and crafts projects are fine, but release your kids to their own creative devices, as well.

Explore a range of forms.

Art has many types. A partial list includes dancing, singing, fine art (painting, sculpture, architecture, music and poetry), theater arts, photography, collage, film, printmaking, mosaics, crafts, and calligraphy. If your local school district has cut back on arts programming, see if you can counterbalance the shortage by joining a local cultural center or picking up classes through your local library or art supply shop. Don't be shy about asking about scholarship programs if costs exceed your budget.

Relax about messes.

Your perfectionism may cost your kids creative growth. Artists often have to try something dozens of times before they get the hang of even a simple brushstroke. Adopt a practicemakes-proud attitude. If you notice your child craving space to spread out and practice work, try to create some. Make CONTINUED >>> Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent â&#x20AC;˘ July/August 2016

room for projects to be spread out for several days or however long they take. Find nooks and crannies of your home that can support ongoing creative messes. Drop the pressure to immediately clean up after every sitting. Take good care of art tools but allow for a bit of creative chaos.

Test-drive a variety of techniques.

Within many approaches to one art form, you will constantly face lots of choices. So why not let your little artist explore a variety of methods as deeply as she likes over time? For example, your local dance studio probably offers ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical, acrobatics, and hip-hop. Within theater you will find plays, musicals, ballet, and opera. Within painting you will find oil, pastel, acrylic, watercolor, ink, and many more. Technique classes for kids can provide a solid foundation for more in-depth study later in life.

Bankroll dreams gradually.

Don't drop a lot of cash up front or you may inadvertently set the stage for, "You'll like it because I paid for it," which is always

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a lot of pressure. Go for low-commitment opportunities initially and then streamline along lines of interest as kids mature. For a dancer, you could start with tap dancing then add a new style each year according to her tastes and talents. If you expand as your child's abilities grow, your child will be ready for a more intensive level of participation around middle school, which often benefits kids at this developmental juncture.

water. They don't mix well in young children, who are more likely to benefit from variety and flexibility in self-expression. As a parent, strive to be that supportive, guiding presence so you can help your children make choices that are expressive and sensible. And while they are occupied, why not get out your own journal, knitting, or paints? Follow your child's example and you'll soon be busy figuring out what is in you that is longing to be expressed. ď&#x20AC;Ť

Seek out appropriate mentors.

Author, journalist, and writing coach Christina Katz wrote this article when she wasn't shuttling her daughter back and forth to school and dance classes.

Parents can't be everything to every child they raise. As kids get older, they need real-life mentors to help teach them lessons about living happily in the world. Kids benefit from having multiple influences, beyond the usual teachers, coaches, and instructors, who can stretch and challenge them in a particular pursuit. Explore apprenticeships, tutoring, or private lessons with safe, knowledgeable professionals who can serve as living, breathing examples of success.

Banish pressure.

Creativity and pressure are like oil and

Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent â&#x20AC;˘ July/August 2016

// FEATURE STORY //

WORDS SUE HENNINGER

“

A HEAVENLY HAVEN FOR ANIMALS A VISIT TO THE WATKINS GLEN FARM SANCTUARY

or some animals being put out to pasture is a beginning, rather than an ending. At Farm Sanctuary, 500 previously mistreated and neglected farm animals now enjoy a peaceful existence on 175 acres in the bucolic Finger Lakes region.

The Watkins Glen Farm Sanctuary was established in 1986 as a small haven for farm animals rescued from harmful situations. Today, cattle, pigs, goats, sheep, donkeys, and a variety of birds, all make their home on the farm. A recent addition to the group has been maltreated alpacas. Over the years the original upstate New York Sanctuary has added some new buildings to accommodate both its growing clientele and the many human visitors who flock to meet them each year. As an organization, Farm Sanctuary has expanded to include two other locations in California.

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What’s a Farm Sanctuary?

Farm Sanctuary bears no resemblance to a farm tour or a petting zoo, explains Michelle Wafner, the Sanctuary’s Director of Visitor Experience for sixteen years. The difference? “Our animals aren’t used for anything at all," she says. "They don’t work for us and they’re not used for food or to entertain us. Here they’re just allowed to be who they are.” Most people don’t have the chance to have direct interaction with farm animals, she adds, so they tend to think of them as a dumb, unfeeling group, rather than as animals with needs and distinct personalities like cats or dogs. It’s amazing to see people become interested in farm animals once they discover that the misconceptions they held about them are untrue. Given this, it’s a wonderful experience for families to be able to simply spend time observing how the various animals behave in a natural setting with plenty of space to move around in. Kids

“

slaughterhouse operator found are welcome to touch many himself unable to go about of the animals, and are “business as usual” with encouraged to pet a Our animals a friendly young turcow or give a pig a aren’t used for anything key, a call was made belly rub. After a to Farm Sanctuary. guided tour, famat all. They don’t work for Sadly, no space was ilies are free to us and they’re not used available. However, wander around for food or to entertain us. shortly afterwards and watch the Here they’re just allowed Turpentine, the animals go to be who they are." Sanctuary’s treaabout their daily sured, attention-lovlives. – MICHELLE WAFNER, THE ing turkey, unexSANCTUARY’S pectedly died of heart Who Lives DIRECTOR OF VISITOR failure. “Hank” was given EXPERIENCE There? Turpentine’s old spot, just in There is no “typical” resithe nick of time and he is happily dent of the Sanctuary, though all adjusting to life at his new residence. You the animals and birds there have suffered in can find more rescue stories at: http://www. some way. Goats, Patrick and Delilah, were farmsanctuary.org/the-sanctuaries/resdiscovered with many untreated foot and leg cued-animals/2015-rescues/ ailments in a small pen in Long Island. After receiving medical treatment at Cornell University Hospital for Animals the two came to A Place to Learn live at the Watkins Glen farm and recently Start your visit to Farm Sanctuary at the added twin daughters to their small family. Visitor Center which is well-stocked with Like people, animals don’t live forever. literature, videos, and displays about issues But sometimes a door closing for one farm relating to farm animals. There you can sign friend opens a window for another. When a up for the hour-long tour which begins with

“

COMING SOON!

Farm Sanctuary is currently constructing three new “Tiny Houses” which will each have their own bathroom.

VISITING Farm Sanctuary

3100 Aikens Road, Watkins Glen 607-583-2225 ex. 221 www.farmsanctuary.org/the-sanctuaries/watkins-glen-ny/ • June, July, and August Hours: The Gift Shop and Visitor Center are open from 10:30am to 5pm Wednesday thru Sunday. Guided tours are held on the hour. The first tour is at 11am, and the last tour is at 3pm. • Cost: Adults/$10, children under 12/$5. Children under three are free. • Picnicking is allowed, as long as food items are vegan. Limited snacks are also available for purchase. • Please leave your pets at home.

Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent • July/August 2016

a short video highlighting both the mistreatment of many farm animals and Farm Sanctuary’s mission. Friendly and informative tour guides lead visitors around the Sanctuary to meet the animals and hear about their rescue stories. While younger children are mostly interested in seeing and touching the farm animals, Michelle says that older children and adults usually want to hear more about the various experiences the animals have lived through and about some factory farming in the United States contributes to animal mistreatment. Michelle is often asked if a family that enjoys eating meat on a regular basis would be as comfortable visiting Farm Sanctuary as a family committed to vegetarianism or veganism. “We try to make the whole experience welcoming and nonjudgmental…We recognize that not everyone is a vegan,” She responds, adding that all types of questions and dialogue are encouraged and all the information presented is factual. However, the Sanctuary founders, staff, and supporters do hope to educate and inspire those who visit to think about making conscious lifestyle choices once they return home. Deciding what foods to eat, what clothes to wear, and thinking about how to reduce the consumption of animal products are all topics they encourage families to talk about together after their visit.

Staying Connected with your New Friends Farm Sanctuary offers not only a place to spend a day with a diverse group of rescued farm animals, but two opportunities to con-

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tribute to their health and well-being. The “Adopt a Farm Animal Project” is a program where families can sponsor an animal that resides at Farm Sanctuary. The family becomes the adoptive “parent” and will receive a photograph of their new family member, along with a private tour to meet their adoptee. The “Farm Animal Adoption Network” allows people to physically adopt animals into their homes. The Farm Sanctuary website also shares information about how families can become political advocates for farm animals in terms of promoting legislation that will better benefit and protect them. Rescuing farm animals is a critical step but one which is limited in scope, Michelle asserts adding, “We want to change the world for the better.”

Stay Awhile

If a day trip isn’t enough time on the farm for your family, there are three onsite Bed & Breakfast cabins available for rental. With a 4-5 person occupancy, a public bathroom nearby, and a cooked vegan breakfast, these are a wonderful option for families who want to relax and spend more time socializing with the animals or even volunteering to help with their care. Evenings on the farm are one of Michelle’s favorite times and she highly recommends trying an overnight stay. “Our land borders the state forest (Sugar Hill) so it’s peaceful and calm then. You can sit on porch and watch the sunset.”

Fun on the Farm

It’s not all serious at the Sanctuary! A number of special events are held there, two of which will be appealing to families. “Pignic,” an annual 4th of July party for all ages, includes vegan hotdogs, potato salad, watermelon, and lemonade, along with a tour, farm crafts and other fun activities. If you’ve never tried a vegan meal or a nontraditional Independence Day celebration, this is a really enjoyable way to do so, Michelle says. “Celebration of the Turkeys,” where the popular bird is the guest of honor rather than the main course, is something Michelle looks forward to every November. The unique turkey feeding ceremony consists of bales of hay adorned with squash and pumpkin pies. Once the table is set, the turkeys rush in to devour their holiday meal. “It’s really silly but so fun to watch!” Michelle notes. The fowl-focused meal is followed by a more formal dinner with guest speakers at the Harbor Hotel in the village of Watkins Glen, that’s most appropriate for older children and their parents.  Sue Henninger is a freelance writer who enjoys writing about the unique people, places, and events that can be found in the Finger Lakes Region and beyond. Contact her at SueHenninger.com & via email at sue@suehenninger.com

Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent • July/August 2016

BOOK NOOK

By Deena Viviani

On Your Mark, Get Set... Read!

elebrate Summer Reading at your library and the Summer Olympics in Brazil with these sports themed books. Need more ideas? Visit your local library and sign up for their Summer Reading Programs today!

JULY 15TH IS “I LOVE HORSES” DAY! READ ABOUT OUR EQUINE FRIENDS HERE: PICTURE BOOKS Midnight: A True Story of Loyalty in World War I Written by Mark Greenwood & Illustrated by Frané Lessac Moonhorse By Mary Pope Osborne The Princess and the Pony By Kate Beaton MIDDLE GRADE Cowgirl Katie Written by Fran Manushkin & Illustrated by Tammie Lyon Horses of the Dawn trilogy By Kathryn Lasky Silver Pony Ranch series Written by D.L. Green & Illustrated by Emily Wallis Some Kind of Courage By Dan Gemeinhart YOUNG ADULT Catch Rider By Jennifer H. Lyne Horses of Oak Valley Ranch series By Jane Smiley Racing Savannah By Miranda Kenneally Wild Hearts By Jessica Burkhart

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Dino-Swimming Written by Lisa Wheeler & Illustrated by Barry Gott Carolrhoda, 2015, hardcover, $16.99, Ages 4-6

The Land Sharks and the Algae Eaters take to the pool in this heated dinosaur swimming competition! Triceratops, T-Rex, Pterodactyl, and more are represented in the latest addition to the dino-sports series. Sure to please dinosaur and sports fans alike!

Clothesline Clues to Sports People Play

Written by Kathryn Heling and Deborah Hembrook & Illustrated by Andy Robert Davies Charlesbridge, 2015, hardcover, $14.95, Ages 3-5 Who uses a catcher’s mitt? How about shin guards? Look at the pictures, read the clues, and guess which sports the people in this book play. A fun, rhyming story with kid-friendly riddles all in one.

Katie Woo: Cartwheel Katie

Written by Fran Manushkin & Illustrated by Tammie Lyon Picture Window Books, 2015, paperback, $5.95, Ages 5-7 After seeing a gymnastics competition on TV, Katie wants to be a gymnast. But summersaults and cartwheels are hard. Should Katie give up or try again? Join Katie in this early reader as she learns about persistence and practice.

Roller Girl

By Victoria Jamieson Dial, 2015, paperback, $12.99, Ages 9-12 Astrid joins the junior derby summer camp, but she struggles to stay on her feet in this full color, award-winning graphic novel. The author nails the realities of changing friendships and interests between tween-aged friends. A definite winner with a cool cast of derby characters.

Booked

By Kwame Alexander Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2016, hardcov-

er, $16.99, Ages 10-14 Twelve-year-old Nick is great at soccer, bad at paying attention in English class, and upset by his parents’ announcement, but his best friend, teachers, and maybe girlfriend help him through. This fast-paced novel-in-verse uses first-person, second-person, and blackout poetry to tell the story of a smart guy dealing with a bad hand.

The Boys in the Boat (Young Reader’s Adaptation)

By Daniel James Brown Viking, 2015, hardcover, $17.99, Ages 10-14 In 1936, the American eight-oar crew team won gold in the Olympics despite their humble beginnings, Depressionera upbringing, and Nazi-run Olympic Games. A riveting tale that is both heartwarming and chilling.

The Edge

By Roland Smith Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2015, hardcover, $17.99, Ages 12-18 After nearly reaching the summit of Mt. Everest, Peak Marcello is approached by a billionaire looking for a team of teens to climb mountains across the globe for a documentary. When they reach the Kush Mountains of Afghanistan, his mom is kidnapped. Suddenly Peak has more than his climbing reputation at stake. This survival adventure is a quick teen hit.

Play On

By Michelle Smith Spencer Hill Contemporary, 2015, paperback, $9.95, Ages 14-18 High school senior Austin is the star pitcher of his South Carolina school where he follows in his dead father’s shadow. When Marisa arrives with a painful history of her own, he falls for her hard despite her warnings. This baseball themed romance is captivating and sweet with a great narrator who has a team of friends on his side.  Deena Viviani is a Young Adult Services Librarian who writes reviews for VOYA and the RACWI Newsletter. Read more reviews on her blog www.deenaml. livejournal.com or send her a note at DeenaViviani@hotmail.com – she loves to hear from readers!

Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent • July/August 2016

RAISING BABY

By Malia Jacobson

summer greens RAISING A BABY WHO LOVES VEGGIES

lanning to start your baby on solid food this season? Think green. Research shows that babies who eat a wide variety of vegetables and fruits before their first birthday are more likely to be veggie-lovers at age six. Here’s how to get more of summer’s best produce on your baby’s plate.

SALAD FOR TWO When it comes to trying new foods, science shows that little ones are more likely to eat up if they see you enjoying the food, too. So sit down for regular meals with your baby and serve yourself a big helping of greens. Soon enough, baby will follow suit. Eating together will also help teach healthy mealtime routines.

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SPICE IS NICE Many parents believe that baby food needs to be bland, but research shows that babies prefer the flavors of foods that they experienced in the womb via mom’s culinary tastes. In one study, babies preferred the taste of breastmilk after their mothers had eaten garlic. Don’t salt baby’s food (babies don’t need excess sodium), but don’t shy away from garlic, onions, or aromatic spices like cinna-

mon, ginger, and nutmeg that you enjoy. You may discover that your baby loves curry as much as you do. SWEETEN THE DEAL New parents often hear that babies shouldn’t taste fruits before they learn to like veggies. Thankfully, that old wives’ tale is unproven. In fact, research shows that babies like vegetables more when they’re paired with something sweet. Bring on

the pureed peaches! FROWN TOWN Your baby’s expression of disgust at her first taste of strained peas makes a Facebook-worthy photo. But happily, it’s not a true indicator of her dislike for vegetables. One study shows that nearly all babies make some sort of funny face upon introduction to solid foods — 95 percent squint and nearly half wrin-

kle their noses — but those adorably shocked expressions are fleeting. In the study, the babies who squinted ate more slowly, but after a little over a week of exposure to the new food, they learned to accept it. Interestingly, the funny expressions persisted throughout the week, even as the babies gradually ate more and more.

STAY THE COURSE Similarly, don’t be afraid of rejection — researchers recommend offering your baby a vegetable until he rejects it three times, by pushing the food away or turning his head. After a trio of rejections, put the food away and try again the next day. Soon, your little sprout will be asking for seconds. 

SLOW STARTER Don’t worry if your baby doesn’t gobble down her first serving of carrots. In the same study, parents offered their babies the same vegetable over a period of eight days and found that by day eight, the babies were consuming three times as much as on the first day.

Malia Jacobson is an award-winning health and parenting journalist and mom of three. Her latest book is Sleep Tight, Every Night: Helping Toddlers and Preschoolers Sleep Well Without Tears, Tricks, or Tirades.

farm market fun

A FEW OF OUR FAVORITE PLACES TO BUY FRESH VEGGIES THIS SUMMER Scottsville Midweek Farmers’ Market 61 Main St, Scottsville, NY 14546 www.scottsvilleny.org Rush Farmers’ Market 6200 Lima Rd., Rush, NY 14543. Pittsford Farmers' Market Pittsford Colony Plaza, 3400 Monroe Avenue, Pittsford, NY 14534 www.townofpittsford.org Monroe Village Farmers’ Market 730 Monroe Avenue, Rochester, NY 14607 www.monroevillagefarmersmarket.org Webster’s Joe Obbie Farmers’ Market 1028 Ridge Road, Webster, NY14580 www.webstersjoeobbiefarmersmarketinc.org Canandaigua Farmers' Market 167 Mill Street, Canandaigua, NY 14424 www.canandaiguafarmersmarket.com Irondequoit Farmers' Market 1280 Titus Avenue, Rochester, NY 14617 www.irondequoit.org Penfield Farmers' Market 1801 Fairport Nine Mile Point Road, Penfield, 14526 For a complete list of local area farm markets, visit our website at www.rocparent.com

Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent • July/August 2016

YOUR FAMILY ACTIVITIES

By Lara Krupicka

Shhh! How to Create Your Own Little free Library

y family loves to read. And we love sharing great books with others and discovering new reads. So when I heard about the Little Free Library movement, I knew we had to get involved. These small bookfilled structures situated along neighborhood sidewalks encourage passers-by to take home any book they fancy and invite them to participate by donating books in return if they wish. In our case though, we didn't only want to visit a Little Free Library – we wanted to host one. If you would like to do the same, then read on!

Little libraries come in all shapes and sizes. You could put out a plastic container of books with a sign inviting people to take a book. Or, if you have basic construction skills or know someone who does, you could build a wooden library. Just follow these eleven steps. DECIDE ON A DESIGN. What type of roof will your library have? Will the peak face the front or the side? Double door or single? One shelf or two? Do you want to make it in the shape of your favorite object? How much of an overhang will you leave on your roof? This may sound like a lot to consider for such a simple building. However, it all makes a difference when it comes down to construction. Once you have made those decisions, you will want to plot out measurements for each piece of your library floor, sides, door, window, back,

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roof. A common finished size for Little Free Libraries is 20" wide x 18" to 28" tall x 12" to 15" deep. GATHER MATERIALS. You will need: • 5/8" plywood for the structure itself • 4" x 4" post for mounting it on • nails or screws • wood glue • caulk • exterior-grade paint • hinges • door handle • acrylic sheet for a window in the door • hook and eye to latch door closed Some library stewards aim for an environment-friendly creation by salvaging construction supplies from what they already have.

CUT AND SAND THE WOOD. Measure and mark the dimensions of each piece. Then, using a circular or table saw, cut the pieces to size. For the front of your library, you will also need to mark the opening for your door and cut it out. Then, in the piece you removed, you will want to cut the opening for your window. For the window itself, cut a piece of acrylic one inch larger than your opening (to overlap ½" on all sides). If you don't

own a saw and can't borrow one, bring your measurements when you purchase the wood. Many lumber and big box stores will cut to order for free or a nominal fee. Once your wood is cut, sand it. Start with a rough grade of sandpaper and sand each piece, making passes with increasingly finer grits. Your patrons will appreciate not having their clothing catch on a rough door or splinters in their fingers as they pull a book out.

PAINT THE LIBRARY. Before you assemble your building, mark which side of each piece will face inside. Paint those first rather than awkwardly reaching inside a finished library. When the paint has dried, flip the pieces over and paint the outside, unless you are painting a special design on the exterior, in which case you should assemble your library before painting the rest. Get kids involved in the painting process – they’ll love helping with this step! ASSEMBLE YOUR LIBRARY. Position the sides of your library at the edge of the floor piece, painted sides facing in. Drill pilot holes before nailing or screwing them together. Do this for both sides and back. Then place the front piece with cutout in position and fasten as you did the others. For added stability, you can run a line of wood glue along the edge of each board before fastening. ATTACH THE WINDOW AND DOOR. Attach the acrylic sheet to the backside of the door: center the acrylic atop the door interior, insert short screws with washers snug against the edges of the window so that the heads overlap the acrylic to hold it in place. Fasten the hinges on the door, ensuring it hangs plumb as you do so. Then attach the handle and hook and eye. CAULK THE INTERIOR. Run a bead of caulk along all the corners where the sides of your building meet. You may want to leave the edges where the walls meet the floor untouched. In the event that moisture enters your library, it will have a place to escape. ATTACH THE ROOF. Match your roof pieces at the peak, measuring for an even overhang on all sides. Clamp

in place and fasten as you did the sides. Then caulk inside along all roof and wall joints. INSERT YOUR LIBRARY POST. Dig a posthole approximately two feet deep. Drop in your post. Using a level to position the post upright in all directions, fill halfway with crushed stone followed by sand, tamping down between layers. To make it even sturdier, mix and pour concrete around the base. MOUNT YOUR LIBRARY TO THE POST. You could add two angle braces (like those used on mailboxes) for extra support. HOST YOUR GRAND OPENING! Fill library with books, leaving space for visitors to add their own contributions. Attach a Little Free Library charter sign (obtained through littlefreelibrary.org), if you have one. Then invite your friends and neighbors for an unveiling party! Serving as Little Free Library stewards (as owners are called) can be satisfying for kids and adults alike – watching cars pause in the street to look at your building, receiving messages from friends about the books from your library their kids are reading, venturing out to see what new books have appeared and which ones have been claimed. The few hours of work that go into building one pay off many times over in community interactions and promoting literacy. 

Lara Krupicka, along with her husband and daughter, created and installed a Little Free Library at their home. They love watching books disappear from their library and new ones appearing.

Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent • July/August 2016

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after-school & weekend activity guide Looking for enrichment programs and what to do with the kids after-school or on the weekends? Here is an array of activities for children after the final bell rings. After School Programs & Child Care Art Instruction Dance Programs Drama & Theater Enrichment, Special Learning & Tutoring Music Programs Sports & Athletics Classes and Programs

PLUS...

CHECK OUT OUR ONLINE AFTER-SCHOOL & WEEKEND ACTIVITIES DIRECTORIES AND ALL OF OUR

FAMILY-FOCUSED DIRECTORIES ONLINE FOR MORE GREAT RESOURCES AND ARTICLES

www.RocParent.com for you 24/7!

Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent â&#x20AC;¢ July/August 2016

after-school & weekend activity guide

Looking for more After-School Programs and Ideas?

Visit our website at

www.RocParent.com 38

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after-school & weekend activity guide

Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent â&#x20AC;˘ July/August 2016

after-school & weekend activity guide

Choosing After-School Activities By Heidi Smith Luedtke, PhD

he intense demands of school work may cause you to hesitate when it comes to after-school time. Although you don’t want to overload your child’s schedule, the academic, social and physical benefits of extracurricular programs are hard to ignore.

The Afterschool Alliance, an information clearinghouse and advocacy group, reports that kids who participate in after-school programs have better school attendance, higher grades and loftier aspirations about graduation and college attendance. They’re less likely to use drugs or get into trouble with police, and because they log less screen time, kids in after-school programs are at lower risk of obesity. Kids also develop social and leadership skills in after-school programs, as they interact with peers in cooperative roles and mentoring relationships. Now that’s an impressive list of benefits. Before signing up, do your homework. These tips will help you choose the perfect program. CONTENT If possible, let kids choose activities based on their personal interests, says Susan Kuczmarski, EdD, author of

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after-school & weekend activity guide The Sacred Flight of the Teenager: A Parent’s Guide to Stepping Back and Letting Go. Help your child find activities that reflect who they are and what they want to learn, instead of imposing your preferences on them. Kids flourish when they’re deeply engaged. QUALITY After-school programs aren’t created equal. "The best programs offer much more than homework help," says Sara Hill, PhD, Senior Consultant for the National Institute on Out-of-School Time. "Discipline-based activities that allow kids to create a quality product over a period of time are best," she says. For instance, kids might learn math and science by building a boat or practice art and leadership by putting on a play or musical. STAFFING You’re looking for more than a babysitter. Staff members should be professionals with bona fide skills and experience. Programs with strong community connections usually have the best resources, Hill says. Kids may get to work with artists, scientists, and athletes from local organizations, like museums and colleges. These opportunities expose kids to real-life role models. MOVEMENT After-school sports show kids the value of practice and encourage persistence. But the benefits of exercise are even bigger. John Ratey, MD, Associate Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School and author of Spark: The Revolutionary New Science of Exercise and the Brain, prescribes exercise for kids with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (and everyone else) because exer-

cise boosts mood, improves learning and memory, and relieves stress. LEADERSHIP Extracurricular activities, including sports and clubs, are ideal places for kids to explore and practice what it means to be a group leader, explains Kuczmarski. When kids take responsibility for organizing group work and producing results, they learn valuable social skills. Encourage your child to take on leadership roles whenever possible. LOGISTICS "Rather than causing burnout, after-school activities can provide balance to a class schedule that is overly academic," Kuczmarski says, "if locations and timing fit your lifestyle." It’s okay to keep kids busy, but avoid signing on to so many programs that you’ll be scrambling from one to the next. Pay attention to cost as well. Good programs don’t necessarily cost big bucks. Many quality programs receive funding from grants and community partnerships. As you weigh the options, keep in mind this goal: You want your child to be a well-rounded citizen and a healthy, happy person, reminds Hill. After-school activities can provide enrichment, adventure and variety. They shouldn’t be driven by high-stakes testing and they shouldn’t be box-fillers for college applications. Kids don’t want to participate in programs that are just more school after school. 

Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent • July/August 2016

after-school & weekend activity guide

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after-school & weekend activity guide

Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent â&#x20AC;˘ July/August 2016

after-school & weekend activity guide

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after-school & weekend activity guide

Looking for even more After-School Programs?

Visit our online directory of After-school and weekend activities

at www.RocParent.com

Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent â&#x20AC;˘ July/August 2016

CALENDAR

JULY & AUGUST EVENTS

Activities • Exhibits • Theater • Storytelling • Shows • Family Fun • Outdoor Adventures Parenting Programs • and lots more for families to do in & around Rochester!

PLAYING WITH POLITICS NOW ON DISPLAY AT THE STRONG

ast your ballot and explore the satirical side of campaigning at the new Playing with Politics display now open at The Strong® museum! The display includes dozens of rarely seen artifacts from The Strong’s collections of political playthings, such as White Houseinspired paper houses

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and puzzle sets; Barbie for President dolls; political-party-inspired board games, playing cards, and jigsaw puzzles; Presidentialthemed paper doll sets and games featuring the Bush, Kennedy, and Reagan families; and more. Playing with Politics will be on display at the museum

through November 14, 2016, and is included with general museum admission fees.

WHERE The Strong National Museum of Play, One Manhattan Square, Rochester, NY 14607 ADMISSION Ages 2 and older $14, under age 2 free, members free. MUSEUM HOURS Monday–Thursday, 10am-5pm.; Friday and Saturday, 10am-8 pm and Sunday, noon-5 pm. MORE INFO 585-263-2700, museumofplay.org

CALENDAR OF EVENTS • LOCAL FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES 14 * Thursday

calendar guide: August ��50 September ��57 Summer Fairs ��59

WXXI & Central Library Exploration Stations This is

11 * Monday Invasive Species Week Want to

work hands-on in the field conserving our local ecosystem? Join us at the Zoo and in our local parks for hands-on invasive species citizen science programs. Come and experience guided hikes through Lower Seneca Park, where you will learn ... 10am - 4pm. Seneca Park Zoo, 2222 St Paul Street, Rochester 14621. senecaparkzoo.org

Sensory Friendly Films -BFG AMC

is proud to partner with the Autism Society to bring you unique movie showings where you can feel free to be you! We turn the lights up, and turn the sound down, so you can get up, dance, walk, shout or sing! 7pm. AMC Webster 12 Movie Theatre, 2190 Empire Blvd., Webster 14580.

Hochstein at High Falls Concert Series - Dady Brothers The noontime, 10-week

summer concert series Hochstein at High Falls runs June 9 to August 18, 2016, on Thursday afternoons, beginning at 12:10 pm at the Granite Mills Park near the Pont de Rennes bridge at 104 Platt Street. 12 10pm. Granite Mills Park at High Falls, 60 Browns Race, Rochester 14614. . hochstein.org/Calendar/ Hochstein-at-High-Falls

15 * Friday

The Hill Cumorah Pageant The

Koo Koo Kanga Roo AllAges Concert–SOLD OUT This

Pageant is held only July 8-9 and 12-16. Experience a great outdoor theatrical production. This family-friendly features a hillside stage and a cast of 750 brings to life stories from the Bible & Book of Mormon. Parking & admission are free. 9 15pm. Hill Cumorah, 653 NY-21, Palmyra 14522.

event has been sold out Strong National Museum of Play, One Manhattan Square, Rochester 14607. 263-2700. www.museumofplay.org/

Tales and Tails Story Time

13 * Wednesday Wegmans Concerts by the Shore - Greece Jazz Band Enjoy the cool

breeze and a free concert. Refreshments available in the park, bring a picnic supper and a blanket for a family fun evening. 7pm - 9pm. Ontario Beach Park, 4800 Lake Ave., Rochester 14613. 865-3320. ontariobeachentertainment.org R

series features classic fairy tales with a twist. The kids help fairy tale characters solve problem through hands-on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) activities. Come to the Children’s Center to play with The Three ... 11am - 4pm. Central Library of Rochester and Monroe County, 115 South Ave., Rochester 14604. 585-428-8150. www.libraryweb.org

Story hour with farm animal visitor! Come for stories and meet a new farm animal friend. The event is free of charge and open to the public, but no buses please. No registration is required. 11am. Wickham Farms, 1821 Fairport Nine Mile Point Road, Penfield 14526. 377-3276. wickhamfarms.com

Animal Tales Story Time at Lollypop Farm Snuggle

up on a fluffy pillow and enjoy an animal-themed story or two and a humane education component. It’s

a great way to introduce the wonder of animals to the little ones of the family. Held every Friday in the Indoor Barn Classroom. 11:30am. Lollypop Farm, 99 Victor Rd., Fairport 14450. 223-1330 x 173. lollypop.org

16 * Saturday Sci-fi Summer: Galactic Warriors Stop by a “Jedi” training camp presented by the Rochester Fencing Club. Join in interactive demonstrations of fencing etiquette, basic footwork, and blade work. Create a foam light saber to take home. Included with general museum admission fees. 11am - 4pm. Strong National Museum of Play, One Manhattan Square, Rochester 14607. 263-2700. www.museumofplay.org

Saturday Night Telescope Viewing Free telescope viewing on

Saturday nights from dark till about 10 p.m. when weather in downtown Rochester is favorable and volunteer telescope operators are available. 7:30pm. Strasenburgh Planetarium, 657 East Ave., Rochester 14607. 697-1945. www.rmsc.org/ StrasenburghPlanetarium R

At Day at the CNC Calling kids of all ages for a forest adventure! Plan to get dirty and wet as we head off trail for guided exploration of CNC’s secret treasures. Bring lunch and take advantage of free time to explore on your own. Parental supervision is required. 11am 2pm. Cumming Nature Center, 6472 Gulick Rd., Naples 14512. www.rmsc.org/cumming-naturecenter Civil War Reenactment & Encampment July 16 & 17,

10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day. The Historic Village takes on the guise of a border town, in which civilians tried to maintain normal lives while the war raged on. Two battles each day demonstrate mounted cavalrymen and infantry man...

10am - 4pm. Genesee Country Village and Museum, 1410 Flint Hill Rd., Mumford 14511. 585-2948218. www.gcv.org

Madagascar Day Join the

Seneca Park Zoo Society docents as they share their amazing conservation efforts to protect Madagascar’s unique biodiversity. Enjoy games, biofact touch tables, and stories from our docents. 10am - 4pm. Seneca Park Zoo, 2222 St Paul Street, Rochester 14621. senecaparkzoo.org

Rochester Rhinos vs Montreal 4/23 - It’s Rhino

season! Enjoy the opening of the soccer season’s first game with family and friends. Check the website for game day specials and promotions. 705pm. Rhinos Stadium, 460 Oak St., Rochester 14608. 454-3000. www.rhinossoccer.com

17 * Sunday Community Garage Sale

Treasures await you and bargains abound...the sheer number and variety of items available at these sales defy easy description. But whatever you consider the right stuff, you have a good chance of finding it at Community Garage Sales and Superfleas. 8am - 2pm. Rochester Public Market, 280 N. Union St., Rochester 14605. 428-6907. www.cityofrochester.gov

Jungle Jog Make your run count at Rochester’s wildest 5K while supporting the Zoo’s education and conservation programs! With three race options for participants of all ages and abilities, this annual event is the perfect family tradition. COST: 5K 8:30am - Noon. Seneca Park Zoo, 2222 St Paul Street, Rochester 14621. senecaparkzoo.org

PLEASE NOTE:

Dates and times for all calendar and ongoing events are subject to change. Please call the numbers provided or visit their website to confirm event information.

WANT TO SEE YOUR EVENT IN PRINT & ONLINE?

To submit an event to our calendar e-mail: calendar@GVParent.com NEW: Submit your calendar events online at www.RocParent.com/calendar/calendar-submit All entries must be received by the 10th of the month prior to publication in order to be considered. Events printed as space permits.

Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent • July/August 2016

CALENDAR OF EVENTS • LOCAL FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES The Streets of Rochester The museum’s archives are opened with this presentation of a selection of vintage street scenes in the Flower City. Antique autos, trolleys, buses and trucks will be seen, along with the neighborhoods and downtown of long ago. Showings at 12:30. 11am - 5pm. New York Museum of Transportation, 6393 East River Rd, West Henrietta 14586. www.nymtmuseum.org The Dog Film Festival The Dog Film Festival is a cinematic celebration of the remarkable bond between pets and people. Perfect for dog lovers of all ages, the festival comprised of two separate programs of entirely different canine-themed films; one at 11 a.m. and th... 11am - 3pm. Little Theatre, 240 East Avenue, Rochester 14604. 6145802445. www.dogfilmfestival.com Sci-fi Summer: Galactic Warriors Stop by a “Jedi” training

camp presented by the Rochester Fencing Club. Join in interactive demonstrations of fencing etiquette, basic footwork, and blade work. Create a foam light saber to take home. Included with general museum admission fees. 1pm - 4pm. Strong National Museum of Play, One Manhattan Square, Rochester 14607. 263-2700. www.museumofplay.org

18 * Monday National Zoo Keeper Week

Discover a day in the life of a zoo keeper! Join keepers and staff for activities and displays about their work here at the Zoo. Animal demonstrations will focus on how our animals interact with their most trusted caretakers. Have conversations ... 10am - 4pm. Seneca Park Zoo, 2222 St Paul Street, Rochester 14621. .senecaparkzoo.org R

20 * Wednesday Movie at the Central Library: The Lion Guard: Return of the Roar Every Wednesday this summer,

the Children’s Center will be showing a different movie that will start promptly at 1:00 pm. This Wednesday, on July 20, we are excited to bring you The Lion Guard: Return of the Roar. This movie is the pilot for the ... 1pm - 2pm. Central Library of Rochester and Monroe County, 115 South Ave., Rochester 14604. 585428-8150. www.libraryweb.org

Wegmans Concerts by the Shore - Skycoasters Enjoy the

cool breeze and a free concert. Refreshments available in the park, bring a picnic supper and a blanket for a family fun evening. 7pm. Ontario Beach Park, 4800 Lake Ave., Rochester 14613. 865-3320. ontariobeachentertainment.org R

www.RocParent.com

21 * Thursday Redwings vs Syracuse Chiefs

Let’s go out to the Ball Game! Watch as the Rochester Redwings take on their rivals, enjoy the action and check out the website for game updates. Pete Rose, Major League Baseball’s all-time hits leader with 4,256, will be at Frontier Field 705pm. Frontier Field // Red Wings Baseball, 1 Morrie Silver Way, Rochester 14608. 454-1001. redwingsbaseball.com/

Rochester 14607. 271-4320. www.rmsc.org

Community Garage Sale Red Wings vs Syracuse Chiefs Let’s go out to the Ball Game! Watch as the Rochester Redwings take on their rivals, enjoy the action and check out the website for game updates. 705pm. Frontier Field // Red Wings Baseball, 1 Morrie Silver Way, Rochester 14608. 454-1001. redwingsbaseball.com

Hochstein at High Falls Concert Series - Jackson Cavalier & the Fevertones

The noontime, 10-week summer concert series Hochstein at High Falls runs June 9 to August 18, 2016, on Thursday afternoons, beginning at 12:10 pm at the Granite Mills Park near the Pont de Rennes bridge at 104 Platt Street. 12 10pm. Granite Mills Park at High Falls, 60 Browns Race, Rochester 14614. . hochstein. org/Calendar/Hochstein-at-High-Falls

WXXI & Central Library Exploration Stations This is series features classic fairy tales with a twist. The kids help fairy tale characters solve problem through handson STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) activities. Come to the Children’s Center to play. 11am - 4pm. Central Library of Rochester and Monroe County, 115 South Ave., Rochester 14604. 585428-8150. www.libraryweb.org

22 * Friday Animal Tales Story Time at Lollypop Farm Snuggle up on

a fluffy pillow and enjoy an animalthemed story or two and a humane education component. It’s a great way to introduce the wonder of animals to the little ones of the family. Held every Friday in the Indoor Barn Classroom. 11:30am. Lollypop Farm, 99 Victor Rd., Fairport 14450. 223-1330 x 173. lollypop.org

Tales and Tails Story Time

RMSC After Dark: Intergalactic Rochester to Mission

Control-the party of the summer is coming in for a landing at RMSC. Journey through outer space at the Museum and Strasenburgh Planetarium. Live music, dancing (moonwalk anyone?), cash bars and food trucks. Must be 21 + to attend 7pm - 11pm. Rochester Museum and Science Center, 657 East Ave.,

24 * Sunday

23 * Saturday Morning Birdsong Hike Natureseekers listen for morning birdsong and spot spring birds along the trails. Hikers might come across BlackThroated Blue Warbler or an Indigo Bunting. 8am - 10am. Cumming Nature Center, 6472 Gulick Rd., Naples 14512. . www.rmsc.org/ cumming-nature-center

25th Annual Native American Dance & Music Festival

25th Annual Native American Dance & Music Festival-Seneca/ Haudenosaunee culture and traditions, Bridge between Native and non-Native cultures, 10AM-6PM Join us for the 25th annual Native American Dance & Music Festival at Ganondagan! 10am - 6pm. Seneca Art & Cultural Center at Ganondagan, 7000 County Road 41, Victor 14564. www.ganondagan.org

Sensory Friendly Films -Ice Age: Collision Course AMC

is proud to partner with the Autism Society to bring you unique movie showings where you can feel free to be you! We turn the lights up, and turn the sound down, so you can get up, dance, walk, shout or sing! 10am. AMC Webster 12 Movie Theatre, 2190 Empire Blvd., Webster 14580.

Sci-fi Summer: Aliien Encounters Pose for a photo with

a friendly alien and a give a high five to a mischievous Martian. Dress up as a creepy alien in the cosmic costume shop and accessorize with your very own googly-eyed headband. Included with general museum admission fees. 11am - 4pm. Strong National Museum of Play, One Manhattan Square, Rochester 14607. 263-2700. www.museumofplay.org

The Magical Music of Disney Experience the magic of Disney, live in concert! Watch scenes from your favorite Disney movies on the big screen at Kodak Hall while the RPO performs from some of the most beloved Disney scores 7pm. Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre, 60 Gibbs St., Rochester 14604. www.rpo.org

Medina Railroad Summer Event Enjoy a 2hr train ride along

the Erie Canal. Our museum has over 7,000 artifacts and a huge HO scale train layout measuring 204ft x 14ft. We will also have a Chinese Auction, 50/50 raffle and a car show (weather permitting) Reserve your seats soon! 9am - 5pm. Medina Railroad Museum, 530 West Ave., Medina 14103. 585-798-6106. railroadmuseum.net

Sci-fi Summer: Aliien Encounters Pose for a photo with

a friendly alien and a give a high five to a mischievous Martian. Dress up as a creepy alien in the cosmic costume shop and accessorize with your very own googly-eyed headband. Included with general museum admission fees. 1pm - 4pm. Strong National Museum of Play, One Manhattan Square, Rochester 14607. 263-2700. www.museumofplay.org/

26 * Tuesday Sensory Friendly Films -Ghostbusters AMC is proud to

partner with the Autism Society to bring you unique movie showings where you can feel free to be you! We turn the lights up, and turn the sound down, so you can get up, dance, walk, shout or sing! 7pm. AMC Webster 12 Movie Theatre, 2190 Empire Blvd., Webster 14580.

Movies in the Park: Jaws The

Monroe County Parks Department will show Jaws at Ontario Beach on July 26th, and Star Wars: The Force Awakens at Highland Park on August 2nd. Pre-movie concert at 7 PM 7pm. Ontario Beach Park, 4800 Lake Ave., Rochester 14613. www2.monroecounty.gov/parks

27 * Wednesday Wegmans Concerts by the Shore - Atlas Enjoy the

CALENDAR OF EVENTS • LOCAL FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES Movie at the Central Library: Snow White and the Seven Dwarves Join us in the Children’s

Center of the Central Library of Rochester and Monroe County to see Disney’s classic movie, Snow White and the Seven Dwarves. Rated G, the movie follows the Grimm tale of how Snow White, who is pursued by a jealous queen... 1pm - 2:30pm. Central Library of Rochester and Monroe County, 115 South Ave., Rochester 14604. 585-428-8150. www.libraryweb.org

28 * Thursday Hochstein at High Falls Concert Series - The White Hots The noontime, 10-week

WXXI & Central Library Exploration Stations This is

series features classic fairy tales with a twist. The kids help fairy tale characters solve problem through hands-on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) activities. Come to the

Children’s Center to play. 11am 4pm. Central Library of Rochester and Monroe County, 115 South Ave., Rochester 14604. 585-428-8150. www.libraryweb.org

29 * Friday Animal Tales Story Time at Lollypop Farm Snuggle up on

30 * Saturday

Survivors Night at Frontier Field Come celebrate cancer

survivorship with UR Medicine’s Wilmot Cancer Institute on Friday, July 29 at Frontier Field, 333 Plymouth Ave N, Rochester, 14608. All cancer survivors and patients as well as their friends and family and URMC employees are... 7pm - 10pm. Frontier Field // Red Wings Baseball, 1 Morrie Silver Way, Rochester 14608. (585) 276-4715. teamraiser.rochester.edu

Tales and Tails Story Time

Story hour with farm animal visitor! Come for stories and meet a new

farm animal friend. The event is free of charge and open to the public, but no buses please. No registration is required. 11am. Wickham Farms, 1821 Fairport Nine Mile Point Road, Penfield 14526. 377-3276. wickhamfarms.com

Morning Birdsong Hike Natureseekers listen for morning birdsong and spot spring birds along the trails. Hikers might come across BlackThroated Blue Warbler or an Indigo Bunting. 8am - 10am. Cumming Nature Center, 6472 Gulick Rd., Naples 14512. www.rmsc.org R

Super Saturdays & Backto-School Education and Enrichment Fair Presented by Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent School may be a

few weeks away, but come to the Mall and enjoy activities as you learn about all the things to do once the school bell rings again Hands-on activities, performances and more. 10 am - 3 pm. Eastview Mall, Victor. For complete information, visit www.RocParent.com

Sci-fi Summer: Starships and UFOs Meet David Ramsay, who

appeared in the 1997 alien battle film Starship Troopers. See his costume

and learn about his experience working on the film. Snap a selfie with the TARDIS, a spaceship used in the British sci-fi television show, Doctor Who. 11am - 4pm. Strong National Museum of Play, One Manhattan Square, Rochester 14607. 263-2700. www.museumofplay.org

Princess & Superhero Gala and Runway Show to benefit CLOVES Syndrome Community

Charity Event To Benefit: CLOVES Syndrome Community (Congenital Lipomatous Overgrowth Vascular Epidermal Nevi Spinal/Skeletal Anomolies) In Honor of Victor Padilla—CLOVES SATURDAY, JULY 30TH, 4:30—7:00 PM @ SWEET & SASSY 3400 Monro... 4:30pm 7pm. Sweet & Sassy, 3400 Monroe Ave., Pittsford 14618. 7165367514. https://www.facebook.com/ events/238023059914332/ R

31 * Sunday Community Garage Sale

Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent • July/August 2016

CALENDAR OF EVENTS • LOCAL FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES Union St., Rochester 14605. 428-6907. www. cityofrochester.gov/garagesales/

Sci-fi Summer: Starships and UFOs

Meet David Ramsay, who appeared in the 1997 alien battle film Starship Troopers. See his costume and learn about his experience working on the film. Snap a selfie with the TARDIS, a spaceship used in the British sci-fi television show, Doctor Who. 1pm - 4pm. Strong National Museum of Play, One Manhattan Square, Rochester 14607. 2632700. www.museumofplay.org

Parenting Village’s 4th Annual Summer Bash Parenting Village’s 4th

Annual Summer Bash is a free family festival where families get to experience the concept: “It takes a village to raise a child.” Local family-related businesses will create a united circle around the park’s perimeter a... 2pm 6pm. Rothfuss Park, 1648 Five Mile Line Road, Penfield 14526. www.parentingvillage.org

August 02 * Tuesday Red Wings vs Pawtucket Let's go out to the Ball Game! Watch as the Rochester Redwings take on their rivals, enjoy the action and check out the website for game updates. 705pm. Frontier Field // Red Wings Baseball, 1 Morrie Silver Way, Rochester 14608. 454-1001. redwingsbaseball.com

SUMMER BASH! Parenting Village's 4th Annual Summer Bash is a free family festival where families get to experience the concept: "It takes a village to raise a child." Join local families and area family-related businesses that will offer engaging children’s activities while providing information to parents about their organizations. The Bash includes mini-classes, activity tables with hands-on demonstrations, bounce houses, food trucks, and lots of opportuni50

ties to play and connect with other families as well as a silent auction with amazing local prizes. The welcoming atmosphere offers something for everyone, and gives parents and their children a taste of this village without any borders. You don't want to miss this awesome event!

www.RocParent.com

WHEN Sunday, July 31st 2-6pm WHERE Rothfuss Park, 1648 Five Mile Line Rd, Penfield, NY 14526 COST Free!

Movies in the Park: Star Wars: The Force Awakens The Monroe County Parks

Department will show Jaws at Ontario Beach on July 26th, and Star Wars: The Force Awakens at Highland Park on August 2nd. Pre-movie concert at 7 PM 7pm. Highland Park, 1440 South Ave., Rochester 14620. www2.monroecounty.gov/parks

03 * Wednesday Rochester Rhinos vs Richmond Enjoy the game with family and friends. Check the website for game day specials and promotions. 705pm. Rhinos Stadium, 460 Oak St., Rochester 14608. 454-3000. www.rhinossoccer.com Wegmans Concerts by the Shore - Orient Express Band Enjoy the cool

breeze and a free concert. Refreshments available in the park, bring a picnic supper and a blanket for a family fun evening. 7pm. Ontario Beach Park, 4800 Lake Ave., Rochester 14613. 865-3320. ontariobeachentertainment.org

Movie at the Central Library: Cool Runnings You can sprint or you can bobsled,

but however you choose to do so, get yourself to the Children’s Center of the Central Library of Rochester and Monroe County by 1:00 on Wednesday, August 3 so you won’t miss a second of the free showing of Cool ... 1pm - 2:30pm. Central Library of Rochester and Monroe County, 115 South Ave., Rochester 14604. 585-428-8150. www.libraryweb.org

CALENDAR OF EVENTS • LOCAL FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES Red Wings vs Pawtucket Let's go out to the Ball Game! Watch as the Rochester Redwings take on their rivals, enjoy the action and check out the website for game updates. 705pm. Frontier Field // Red Wings Baseball, 1 Morrie Silver Way, Rochester 14608. 454-1001. redwingsbaseball.com R

04 * Thursday Hochstein at High Falls Concert Series - Multibird

Park Ave Festival The festival stretches 1¼ miles from Alexander Street at its west end to Culver Road at the east. Exhibitors set up from curb to sidewalk, and Park Avenue itself closes to vehicular traffic, filling from end to end with festival-goers. Park Ave, Park Ave, Rochester 14607. 473-4482. www.rochesterevents.com

05 * Friday

Tales and Tails Story Time

Laura Ingalls Wilder Days

Animal Tales Story Time at Lollypop Farm Snuggle up on

a fluffy pillow and enjoy an animalthemed story or two and a humane education component. It's a great way to introduce the wonder of animals to the little ones of the family. Held every Friday in the Indoor Barn Classroom. 11:30am. Lollypop Farm, 99 Victor Rd., Fairport 14450. 223-1330 x 173. lollypop.org/education

06 * Saturday Rochester Rhinos vs Wilmington Enjoy the game

with family and friends. Check the website for game day specials and promotions. 605pm. Rhinos Stadium, 460 Oak St., Rochester 14608. 4543000. www.rhinossoccer.com R

August 6 & 7, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day. Celebrate the stories of Laura Ingalls Wilder, one of the most popular writers of 19th-century frontier life, at Laura Ingalls Wilder Days! 10am - 4pm. Genesee Country Village and Museum, 1410 Flint Hill Rd., Mumford 14511. 585-2948218. www.gcv.org R

Build a Fairy House/Elf fortress Construct a fairy house

using all natural materials. The houses will become part of the nature center. Plan on getting dirty! For children of all ages. 11am. Cumming Nature Center, 6472 Gulick Rd., Naples 14512. www.rmsc.org/cummingnature-center

Sci-fi Summer: Rebels and Imperials Take pictures with

characters from the 501st and Rebel Legions. Check out the R2-D2 Builder’s Club, a group of builders

who make versions of the Star Wars character. Create your own set of Star Trek, Star Wars, and Doctor Who popsicle stick puppets 11am - 4pm. Strong National Museum of Play, One Manhattan Square, Rochester 14607. 263-2700. www.museumofplay.org/ R

07 * Sunday Community Garage Sale

Sci-fi Summer: Rebels and Imperials Take pictures with

characters from the 501st and Rebel Legions. Check out the R2-D2 Builder’s Club, a group of builders who make versions of the Star Wars character. Create your own set of Star Trek, Star Wars, and Doctor Who popsicle stick puppets 1pm - 4pm. Strong National Museum of Play, One Manhattan Square, Rochester 14607. 263-2700. www.museumofplay.org/

Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent • July/August 2016

CALENDAR OF EVENTS • LOCAL FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES 08 * Monday

11 * Thursday

A Time to Drum and Sing Along with Topher Holt Topher

Teddy Bear Picnic Children

is coming to the Kate Gleason Auditorium on Monday, August 8 from 10:30-11:30am. Topher plays at libraries, museums, etc. all over Monroe County, and if you haven’t had a chance to see him yet, you’ll want to be sure to get here early to g... 10:30am - 11:30am. Central Library of Rochester and Monroe County, 115 South Ave., Rochester 14604. 585-428-8150. www.libraryweb.org

09 * Tuesday Wee Read: Things that Go!

Join us for songs, stories and toys! Every Tuesday at 10:00am, parents are invited to bring babies and toddlers to the Children’s Center of the Central Library of Rochester and Monroe County to enjoy a variety of fun early literacy activities suc... 10am - 11am. Central Library of Rochester and Monroe County, 115 South Ave., Rochester 14604. 585428-8150. www.libraryweb.org

10 * Wednesday 45th Anniversary of Walnut Hill Driving Competition Every

summer since 1971, a little oasis just south of Pittsford Village transforms into a Victorian country fair. It’s the Walnut Hill Carriage Driving Competition and this August 10-14 it celebrates its 45th anniversary. 8am - 5pm. Walnut Hill Farm, 397 West Bloomfield Road, Pittsford 14534. 5857461080. www.walnuthillfarm.org

Movie at the Central Library: Norm of the North Wednesday

is movie day in the Children’s Center of Rochester and Monroe County. This Wednesday, August 10, we will be showing the PG rated movie Norm of the North at 1:00pm. When a real estate development invades his Arctic home, Norm and his thr... 1pm - 2:30pm. Central Library of Rochester and Monroe County, 115 South Ave., Rochester 14604. 585-428-8150. www.libraryweb.org

Wegmans Concerts by the Shore - Crazy Firemen Enjoy

the cool breeze and a free concert. Refreshments available in the park, bring a picnic supper and a blanket for a family fun evening. 7pm. Ontario Beach Park, 4800 Lake Ave., Rochester 14613. 865-3320. ontariobeachentertainment.org

www.RocParent.com

can bring their favorite friend to our Teddy Bear Picnic!! It’s an afternoon of games, crafts, stories and treats right here at the museum! $6.00/ person. 11am 2pm. Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum, 180 Thompson St., North Tonawanda 14120. 716-693-1885. carrouselmuseum.org

WXXI & Central Library Exploration Stations This is

Hochstein at High Falls Concert Series - Cammy Enaharo The noontime, 10-week

12 * Friday Tales and Tails Story Time

Animal Tales Story Time at Lollypop Farm Snuggle

up on a fluffy pillow and enjoy an animal-themed story or two and a humane education component. It's a great way to introduce the wonder of animals to the little ones of the family. Held every Friday in the Indoor Barn Classroom. 11:30am. Lollypop Farm, 99 Victor Rd., Fairport 14450. 223-1330 x 173. lollypop.org/education

Rochester Celtic Fest Friday

5P - 10P; Saturday 12P - 10P Just $8 Entrance of $12 Weekend Pass Celebrate a weekend of Celtic Culture with Irish performance, vendors, food and drink! Noon - 10pm. MLK Park at Manhattan

CALENDAR OF EVENTS • LOCAL FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES

Summer is here! Grab the kids and the car keys and get ready to explore all that the Rochester and Upstate New York area has to offer. Each day we’ll highlight a new activity for your family on our website. From museums and cultural attractions to beaches and beyond, our ultimate summer fun guide is here to help you make this the BEST SUMMER EVER.

www.RocParent.com

FIND MORE! FOR MORE CALENDAR EVENTS AND PLACES TO GO, CHECK OUR WEBSITE WHERE YOU WILL FIND: Access to events by month and day Review events by selection of library, storytimes, free events, sports, outdoor fun and more... New events posted weekly

WWW.ROCPARENT.COM Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent • July/August 2016

CALENDAR OF EVENTS • LOCAL FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES Square, 353 Court St., Rochester 14607. www.RochesterCelticFestival.com

or sing! 10am. AMC Webster 12 Movie Theatre, 2190 Empire Blvd., Webster 14580.

Friday Craft Friday is Craft day in

Red Wings vs Scranton/ WB Let's go out to the Ball Game!

the Children’s Center of the Central Library of Rochester and Monroe County. Come create a new project every week anytime between 1:00 and 4:00pm while supplies last. Please come join us on August 12. For more information, ... 1pm - 4pm. Central Library of Rochester and Monroe County, 115 South Ave., Rochester 14604. 585-428-8150. www.libraryweb.org

Watch as the Rochester Redwings take on their rivals, enjoy the action and check out the website for game updates. 705pm. Frontier Field // Red Wings Baseball, 1 Morrie Silver Way, Rochester 14608. 454-1001. redwingsbaseball.com

14 * Sunday Community Garage Sale

Red Wings vs Scranton/ WB Let's go out to the Ball Game!

13 * Saturday Sci-fi Summer: Galactic Warriors Stop by a “Jedi” training

camp presented by the Rochester Fencing Club. Join in interactive demonstrations of fencing etiquette, basic footwork, and blade work. Create a foam light saber to take home. Included with general museum admission fees. 11am. Strong National Museum of Play, One Manhattan Square, Rochester 14607. 263-2700. www.museumofplay.org

Trolleys at Twilight Many trolley companies across the country once created popular amusement parks and picnic grounds. The New York Museum of Transportation recreates an evening at an old-time “trolley park” with the happy sound of the calliope in the background. 4pm - 8pm. New York Museum of Transportation, 6393 East River Rd, West Henrietta 14586. 533-1113. www.nymtmuseum.org

Ngorongoro Crater Day Join

us in A Step Into Africa and immerse yourself in the biodiversity and culture of the Ngorongoro Crater. Discover the ways of the Maasai and how these unique people live sustainably and in harmony within their ecosystem. 10am - 4pm. Seneca Park Zoo, 2222 St Paul Street, Rochester 14621. . senecaparkzoo.org/event/ ngorongoro-crater-day/

Sensory Friendly Films -Pete's Dragon AMC is proud to partner

with the Autism Society to bring you unique movie showings where you can feel free to be you! We turn the lights up, and turn the sound down, so you can get up, dance, walk, shout

www.RocParent.com

Sci-fi Summer: Galactic Warriors Stop by a “Jedi” training

Red Wings vs Scranton/ WB Let's go out to the Ball Game!

Watch as the Rochester Redwings take on their rivals, enjoy the action and check out the website for game updates. 1 35pm. Frontier Field // Red Wings Baseball, 1 Morrie Silver Way, Rochester 14608. 454-1001. redwingsbaseball.com

15 * Monday Get Moving: Stories for all ages Make sure you pack along

some extra pep and energy when you come to the Get Moving: Stories for all ages program that will be held in the Kate Gleason Auditorium of the Central Library of Rochester and Monroe County. 10:30am 11:30am. Central Library of Rochester and Monroe County, 115 South Ave., Rochester 14604. 585-428-8150. www.libraryweb.org

16 * Tuesday Wee Read: Splash! Join us for

songs, stories and toys! Every Tuesday at 10:00am, parents are invited to bring babies and toddlers to the Children’s Center of the Central Library of Rochester and Monroe County to enjoy a variety of fun early

CALENDAR OF EVENTS • LOCAL FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES literacy activities. 10am - 11am. Central Library of Rochester and Monroe County, 115 South Ave., Rochester 14604. 585-428-8150. www.libraryweb.org

17 * Wednesday

Happiest Hour Play with a

purpose at the Happiest Hour, a fundraiser to support The Strong. The Happiest Hour is The Strong’s afterhours event for adults only. 5:30pm - 9:30pm. Strong National Museum of Play, One Manhattan Square, Rochester 14607. 263-2700. www.museumofplay.org/

Movie at the Central Library: Hotel Transylvania 2

Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) activities. 11am - 4pm. Central Library of Rochester and Monroe County, 115 South Ave., Rochester 14604. 585-428-8150. www.libraryweb.org

Ontario Beach Park, 4800 Lake Ave., Rochester 14613. 865-3320. ontariobeachentertainment.org

18 * Thursday

19 * Friday

Let's go out to the Ball Game! Watch as the Rochester Redwings take on their rivals, enjoy the action and check out the website for game updates. 705pm. Frontier Field // Red Wings Baseball, 1 Morrie Silver Way, Rochester 14608. 454-1001. redwingsbaseball.com/

Batavia Survivors Night

Join UR Medicine’s Wilmot Cancer Institute Friday, August 19 as we celebrate cancer survivorship at Dwyer Stadium at 299 Bank Street, Batavia, 14020. All cancer survivors and their friends and family are invited as the Muckdogs play ball!. 7pm - 10pm. Dwyer Stadium - Batavia Muckdogs, 299 Bank Street, Batavia 14020. (585) 344-3050. teamraiser. rochester.edu

Wednesday is movie day this summer in the Children’s Center of the Central Library of Rochester and Monroe County. This week, Wednesday, August 17, we will be showing Hotel Transylvania 2, which is rated PG from 1:00 – 2:30 pm. 1pm - 2:30pm. Central Library of Rochester and Monroe County, 115 South Ave., Rochester 14604. 585-428-8150. www.libraryweb.org

Wegmans Concerts by the Shore - The Invictas Enjoy

WXXI & Central Library Exploration Stations This is

the cool breeze and a free concert. Refreshments available in the park, bring a picnic supper and a blanket for a family fun evening. 7pm.

series features classic fairy tales with a twist. The kids help fairy tale characters solve problem through hands-on STEAM (Science,

Animal Tales Story Time at Lollypop Farm Snuggle up on

Red Wings vs Buffalo Bisons

Hochstein at High Falls Concert Series - Mounafanyi Pan-African Percussion and Dance The noontime, 10-week

is required. 11am. Wickham Farms, 1821 Fairport Nine Mile Point Road, Penfield 14526. 377-3276. wickhamfarms.com

Red Wings vs Buffalo Bisons

Tales and Tails Story Time

Story hour with farm animal visitor! Come for stories and meet a new farm animal friend. The event is free of charge and open to the public, but no buses please. No registration

20 * Saturday Snakes and Friends Day Join

our docents and staff for interactive reptile touch tables, and meet some of our reptiles up close and personal during our Animal Encounters. Find out how Seneca Park Zoo has worked to help conserve reptiles in their natural habitat. 10am - 4pm. Seneca Park Zoo, 2222 St Paul Street, Rochester 14621. senecaparkzoo.org

Old-Time Fiddlers' Fair August

20 & 21, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. The Fiddlers' Fair features non-stop music by hundreds of musicians from across the state - from well known professionals to young beginners. 10am - 5pm. Genesee Country

Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent • July/August 2016

CALENDAR OF EVENTS • LOCAL FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES Village and Museum, 1410 Flint Hill Rd., Mumford 14511. 585-2948218. www.gcv.org R

The Ice Cream Tour Learn about the making and selling of ice cream, one of Rochester's earliest businesses. You'll be treated to a dish of special ice cream. Meet-Cemetery Office at South Entrance. $7 per person. 11am. Mount Hope Cemetery, 791 Mt. Hope Avenue, Rochester 14620. 461-3494. fomh.org Sci-fi Summer: Cosmic Creations See out-of-this-world

creations by local artists, such as Gil Merritt’s pipe cleaner characters and Dave Pollot’s creature paintings. Take a peek at the inner workings of electronic devices. Visit the craft station and use circuit boards and metallic 11am - 4pm. Strong National Museum of Play, One Manhattan Square, Rochester 14607. 263-2700. www.museumofplay.org/

Rochester Rhinos vs Pittsburgh Enjoy the game

with family and friends. Check the website for game day specials and promotions. 605pm. Rhinos Stadium, 460 Oak St., Rochester 14608. 4543000. www.rhinossoccer.com

21 * Sunday Sci-fi Summer: Cosmic Creations See out-of-this-world

creations by local artists, such as Gil Merritt’s pipe cleaner characters and Dave Pollot’s creature paintings. Take a peek at the inner workings of electronic devices. Visit the craft station and use circuit boards and metallic 1pm - 4pm. Strong National Museum of Play, One Manhattan Square, Rochester 14607. 263-2700. www.museumofplay.org/

Community Garage Sale

24 * Wednesday Movie at the Central Library: Shaun the Sheep Wednesday

www.RocParent.com

is movie day this summer in the Children’s Center of the Central Library of Rochester and Monroe County. This week, Wednesday, August 17, we will be showing Hotel Transylvania 2, which is rated PG from 1:00 – 2:30 pm. In this film, Drac... 1pm - 2:30pm. Central Library of Rochester and Monroe County, 115 South Ave., Rochester 14604. 585-428-8150. www.libraryweb.org

Wegmans Concerts by the Shore - Neil Van Dorn Band

Enjoy the cool breeze and a free concert. Refreshments available in the park, bring a picnic supper and a blanket for a family fun evening. 7pm. Ontario Beach Park, 4800 Lake Ave., Rochester 14613. 865-3320. ontariobeachentertainment.org R

25 * Thursday Next to New Sale at Saint Anne Church The Saint Anne

Church Next to New Sale will be held from Thursday to Saturday, August 25, 26, 27, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. This high quality sale is held in the Church social hall and garage adjacent to the parking lot. 9am 6pm. Saint Anne Church, 1600 Mt. Hope Avenue, Rochester 14620. . www.ourladyoflourdessaintanne.org

26 * Friday Tales and Tails Story Time

Animal Tales Story Time at Lollypop Farm Snuggle up on

27 * Saturday Sensory Friendly Films -Pete's Dragon AMC is proud to partner with the Autism Society to bring you unique movie showings where you can feel free to be you! We turn the lights up, and turn the sound down, so you can get up, dance, walk, shout or sing! 10am. AMC Webster 12 Movie Theatre, 2190 Empire Blvd., Webster 14580. .

Sci-fi Summer: Space Cadets

Journey to outer space at astronaut training camp. Strap on a pretend jetpack and blast through a variety of physical challenges, including leaping over space rocks. View a glowing cosmos and a variety of light-up toys in the ultraviolet room. 11am - 4pm. Strong National Museum of Play, One Manhattan Square, Rochester 14607. 263-2700. www.museumofplay.org/ R

CALENDAR OF EVENTS • LOCAL FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES 28 * Sunday Red Wings vs Scranton/WB Let's go

out to the Ball Game! Watch as the Rochester Redwings take on their rivals, enjoy the action and check out the website for game updates. 405pm. Frontier Field // Red Wings Baseball, 1 Morrie Silver Way, Rochester 14608. 454-1001. redwingsbaseball.com/

Sci-fi Summer: Space Cadets Journey to outer space at astronaut training camp. Strap on a pretend jetpack and blast through a variety of physical challenges, including leaping over space rocks. View a glowing cosmos and a variety of light-up toys in the ultraviolet room. 1pm 4pm. Strong National Museum of Play, One Manhattan Square, Rochester 14607. 263-2700. www.museumofplay.org/

Presents our Newest Event!

Community Garage Sale Treasures await

you and bargains abound...the sheer number and variety of items available at these sales defy easy description. But whatever you consider the right stuff, you have a good chance of finding it at Community Garage Sales and Superfleas. 8am - 2pm. Rochester Public Market, 280 N. Union St., Rochester 14605. 428-6907. www.cityofrochester.gov/garagesales/

29 * Monday Red Wings vs Scranton/WB Let's go

out to the Ball Game! Watch as the Rochester Redwings take on their rivals, enjoy the action and check out the website for game updates. 705pm. Frontier Field // Red Wings Baseball, 1 Morrie Silver Way, Rochester 14608. 454-1001. redwingsbaseball.com/

30 * Tuesday Red Wings vs Syracuse Chiefs Let's go

31 * Wednesday Red Wings vs Syracuse Chiefs Let's go

Wegmans Concerts by the Shore Ruby Shooz Enjoy the cool breeze and a

free concert. Refreshments available in the park, bring a picnic supper and a blanket for a family fun evening. 7pm. Ontario Beach Park, 4800 Lake Ave., Rochester 14613. 865-3320. ontariobeachentertainment.org

Movie at the Central Library: Happy Feet Tap dance your way to the Children’s

Center of the Central Library of Rochester and Monroe County at 1:00pm on Wednesday, August 31 to see the old favorite Happy Feet, which is rated PG. People of all ages love this movie because it is about the... 1pm - 2:30pm. Central Library of Rochester and Monroe County,

www.RocParent.com Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent • July/August 2016

CALENDAR OF EVENTS • LOCAL FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES

NOTE: DATES ARE LISTED AS MONDAYSUN TO INCLUDE THE WEEKEND

JULY 11-17

YATES COUNTY FAIR - July 12-16. See JULY 12

ONGOING

RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL - JULY 2-AUG 14, WEEKENDS ONLY An authentic English Renaissance village is created every Sat. and Sun. July 2 through August 14 with continuous live entertainment, old world rides, games, artisans, and food. 10am-7pm. 15385 Farden Rd, Sterling, NY. 800-879-4446. www.SterlingFestival.com

JULY 4-10

YATES COUNTY FAIR - JULY 12-16 Exhibits, tractor pulls, jousting, family activities, food, games, contests and live entertainment. 10am-11pm. 2370 Old Route 14A, Penn Yan. 315-536-3830 www.yatescountyfair.org GENESEO AIRSHOW - JULY 8-10 “The Greatest Show on Turf” is the theme of this year’s airshow. Featuring World War II war birds, as well as other classic aircraft. (gates open daily at 6am.) Military re-enactments, displays and food. 6am-dark. $25 under 12yrs. Free. Geneseo Airport, Big Tree Lane off Route 63, Geneseo. 243-2100. www.1941hag.org HILL CUMORAH PAGEANT - JULY 8-9, and 12-16 Outdoor drama based on the Book of Mormon. Hollywood special effects, and a costumed cast of over 650 provide a spectacular show. 9:15pm. The Hill Cumorah, Highway 21 between the villages of Palmyra and Manchester. 315-597-5851. www.hillcumorah.org CORN HILL ARTS FESTIVAL - JULY 9-10 Enjoy the Historic Corn Hill Neighborhood, Free Admission. Experience 400+ Original Artists, 4 Stages of Live Music, Food & Family Fun. Also this year: The Fairy Houses Tour! 10am-6pm Corn Hill District, Rochester. www. CornHillArtsFestival.com FINGER LAKES LAVENDER FESTIVAL JULY 9-10 Stroll through fragrant fields. Harvest your own bouquet of fresh lavender. Many artistic and culinary delights. 9am - 5pm. Lockwood Lavender Farm, 1682 West Lake Road, Skaneateles, NY 13152. www. fingerlakeslavenderfestival.blogspot.com

www.RocParent.com

HILL CUMORAH PAGEANT - JULY 8-9,, 12-16 See July 8 THE CANANDAIGUA LAKE MUSIC FESTIVAL - JULY 15-24 11h Anniversary Season. Subscribe to one or all of the ticketed formal concerts at FLCC Concert Hall with pre-concert chatTimes. Venues vary. www.lakemusicfestival.org FESTA ITALIANA - JULY 16-18 Arts and Crafts, live entertainment, food, children’s activities and more. Italian American Community Center, 150 Frank DiMino Way. 594-8882. www.iaccrochester.org DOWNTOWN CANANDAIGUA ARTS & MUSIC FESTIVAL - JULY 17-19 Artists, crafters, food vendors and sponsors gather on Main Street in Canandaigua for this annual rite of summer. Bristol Mountain Mobile Aerial Adventure Park and kids activities. Fri 12-7pm, Sat & Sun 10am-5pm. Downtown Canandaigua. www.canandaiguaartfestival.com CIVIL WAR RE-ENACTMENT - JULY 16-17 Hundreds of re-enactors recreate Civil War life in 1863 with two battles daily and townsfolk offering concerts and vignettes depicting civilian life during the war. 10am-4pm. Free with admission. Genesee Country Village & Museum, 1410 Flint Hill Rd., Mumford. 538-6822, www.gcv.org HEMLOCK “LITTLE WORLD’S” FAIR - JULY 19-23 Amusement rides, 4-H events, harness racing, food, concerts, demolition derbies, truck pulls, talent show & more. 9:00am-midnight. $12$14, children 3 and under free. Free parking. 7370 Water St., Hemlock. 367-3370. www. hemlockfair.org

JULY 18-24

THE CANANDAIGUA LAKE MUSIC FESTIVAL - JULY 15-24. See July 15. HEMLOCK “LITTLE WORLD’S” FAIR - JULY 19-23. See July 19. MACEDONIAN FESTIVAL - JULY 22-24 Folk music, food, performances and costumes and activities that are representative of both the past and present of Macedonian culture. St. Dimitria Macedonian Orthodox Church

Grounds, 235 Telephone Rd., W. Henrietta. 3346675, www.macedonianfest.com ONTARIO COUNTY FAIR - JULY 26-30 Amusements, rides, games, rodeo, horse drawn wagon rides, 4-H displays, auto racing, food and activities. Ontario County Fairgrounds, 2820 County Rd 10, Canandaigua. 394-4987. www. ontariocountyfair.org NATIVE AMERICAN DANCE & MUSIC FESTIVAL - JULY 23-24 Traditional dancers, musicians, storytellers, and artists sharing their cultural heritage, crafts and arts. Also popular children and adult workshops. 10am-6pm. Ganondagan State Historic Site, 1488 State Rd. (Rte. 444) Victor, 14564. 7421690. www.ganondagan.org ORLEANS COUNTY FAIR - JULY 25-30 “The Greatest Little Fair in WNY”. Hands on activities and free entertainment as well as the many exhibits will leave you with more choices than you can imagine. Orleans Co Fairgrounds, 12690 Route 31, Albion 14411, www.orleans4hfair.com SPENCERPORT CANAL DAYS - JULY 30-31 Arts & Crafts, live music, children’s activities, incl. games & face painting, classic car show, wine tasting, and the Canaligator Race. Union St., Downtown Spencerport. www. spencerportcanaldays.com. WATERFRONT ART FESTIVAL - JULY 30-31 Juried items on display & for purchase. Handmade crafts, cottage industry products & artwork by 170 artists. Enjoy cool, outdoor breezes & ample shade. 10am-5pm. Kershaw Park (Lake Shore Dr.), Canandaigua, 14625. 671-9102. www.waterfrontartfestival.com

JULY 25-31

ORLEANS COUNTY FAIR - JULY 25-30 OSWEGO HARBORFEST - JULY 28-31 Enjoy activities for the entire family, music, crafts, midway rides. Concerts held in many parks. Children’s activities. Use the Park & Ride parking areas located at SUNY Oswego, Rt. 104 West. www.oswegoharborfest.com ANNUAL GLORIOUS GARLIC FESTIVAL AUG 6-7 Browse the 30+ vendors, tour the vineyards and see the winery. Enjoy live music, cooking demos, great food and award-winning, hand-crafted wine. Free admission & parking. 11am-5pm. Fox Run Vineyards, 670 State Rte 14, Penn Yan. 800636-9786. www.foxrunvineyards.com

CALENDAR OF EVENTS • LOCAL FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES

AUGUST 1-7

PHELPS SAUERKRAUT FESTIVAL – August 5-7 50th Anniversary! Family Fun for all ages. Arts & Crafts, Kraut Idol, Cabbage Bowling, 20K Road Race, a Giant Parade, Live Music, Mustang Rally Car Show, and a fantastic Fireworks Display. Fireman’s Field, Ontario St., Phelps. 315-5482222. http://phelpsny.com/ CHALK WALK & ARTS FEST – AUG 6 Includes sidewalk chalk art, live music, and a juried arts and crafts show and sale. Watch featured chalk artists starting at 9am outside Dansville Library. 9am-5pm. Historic downtown district of Dansville. 335-6920. www. dansvillechamber.com PARK AVE SUMMER ARTS FEST - AUG 6-7 A 1.25 mile route filled with unique shopping, food & entertainment, arts & crafts, as well as three stages of musical acts. Parking in area lots & on side streets. No pets. 10am-6pm. Park Avenue (Alexander to Culver), Rochester, 4734482. www.rochesterevents.com MONROE COUNTY FAIR - AUG 4-7 Family carnival rides, games, 4-H displays and competitions, music, live entertainment, local foods and drinks. Visit the website for daily events. www.mcfair.com FINGER LAKES RIESLING FESTIVAL & CANANDAIGUA ROTARY PIER FESTIVAL - AUG 6-7 Benefiting the Canandaigua YMCA & charities of the Canandaigua Rotary. Riesling wine and NYS craft beer, seminars, cooking demonstrations, an arts & crafts fair, live music and local farmers market. Festival events Sat & Sun 10am-5pm. Activities for children of all ages. Sat 4pm free concerts, Flint Creek & Taran. 9:30pm fireworks. Canandaigua City Pier and the NY Wine & Culinary Center, 800 S. Main St, Canandaigua. 899-3226. www.rieslingfestival.com

AUGUST 8-14

PAGEANT OF STEAM - AUG 10-13 Display of antique farm equipment dating back to early 1900’s, parades, tractor pulls, flea market, live music, displays, demos & food. 8am-8pm. Pageant Fair Grounds, Gehan Rd. off Rt. 5 & 20 E, Canandaigua. 315-331-4022. www.pageantofsteam.org BROCKPORT SUMMER ARTS FESTIVAL AUG 13-14 Events will include the popular Duck Derby; over 100 artists and crafts-people, great music and food and activities for kids. 10am-6pm. Main Street, Brockport. www.brockportartsfestival.com

10am-10pm. Wayne County Fair Grounds, 250 W. Jackson St. Palmyra. www.waynecountyfair.org

AUGUST 15-21

UKRAINIAN ARTS & CRAFT FESTIVAL AUG 18-21 The Festival has offers tradition Ukrainian foods, dance, Arts and Crafts. The Ukrainian Stage offers a variety of entertainment including Traditional Ukrainian Folk Dancers and Singers. St. Josaphats, 940 Ridge Road East, Rochester. 266-2255. www.rochesterukrainianfestival.com MOUNT MORRIS ITALIAN FEST - AUG 19-21 Arts, crafts, traditional Italian food, live entertainment. This 3-day event sponsors the famous local “IDOL” contest! Main St, Mount Morris. www.mountmorrisitalianfest.com OLD TIME FIDDLER’S FAIR - AUG 20-21 Fiddlers of all skill levels are invited to perform onstage. Visit all the stages where all ages, styles and experience play. Free workshops. 10am-5pm. Free with admission. Genesee Country Village & Museum, 1410 Flint Hill Rd., Mumford. 538-6822. www.gcv.org

AUGUST 22-28

NEW YORK STATE FAIR - AUG 25-SEPT 5 New York State’s largest annual event; an exciting mix of big-name entertainment, mouthwatering food, captivating exhibits and thrilling attractions. Continues through September 1. 8am-10pm. advance sale tickets available, 12 & under free. Empire Expo Center, 581 State Fair Blvd., Syracuse. 800-475-FAIR. www.nysfair.org

AUGUST 29 – SEPTEMBER 4

NEW YORK STATE FAIR - AUG 25-SEPT 5. See AUG 25 NEW YORK STATE FESTIVAL OF BALLOONS - SEPT 1-5 Hot Air Balloons, Arts & Crafts Vendors, live entertainment, food, rides, children’s games and activities. No pets. 6am to dusk. Dansville Municipal Airport- entrance on Maple St., Dansville, 14437, 335-2076. www.nysfob.com

SEPTEMBER 5–11

CLOTHESLINE ARTS FESTIVAL - SEPT 10-11 Enjoy family art activities and visit the museum, food vendors, live entertainment and more. Rain or shine! 10am-6pm. $5 (MAG members $4) 10 and under free if accompanied by an adult Memorial Art Gallery, 500 University Ave. 2768900. www.mag.rochester.edu

SEPTEMBER 12-30

WILDLIFE FESTIVAL - SEPTEMBER 24-26 See more than 50 exhibitors and vendors. Free event. Get hands on experience in outdoor activities and with rare and exotic animals.10am5pm. Niagara Power Vista Visitors Center, 5777 Lewiston Rd, Lewiston. 716-286-6661. www. nypa.gov/vc/niagara.htm NAPLES GRAPE FESTIVAL - SEPT 24-25 The grapest festival in the land! Arts and Crafts, wine tasting, food, Grape pie contest, family entertainment, live music. Please leave pets at home. Naples High School Grounds, Naples, NY www.naplesvalleyny.com

WAYNE COUNTY FAIR - AUG 15-20 Exhibits, Farm animals, food vendors, rides and live entertainment, talent show, cooking demos and more. Fun for the entire family. No pets.

Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent • July/August 2016

CALENDAR OF EVENTS • LOCAL FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES

115 South Ave., Rochester 14604. 585-428-8150. www.libraryweb.org R

September

Red Wings vs Leigh Valley Let's go out to the Ball Game! Watch as the Rochester Redwings take on their rivals, enjoy the action and check out the website for game updates. 705pm. Frontier Field // Red Wings Baseball, 1 Morrie Silver Way, Rochester 14608. 454-1001. redwingsbaseball.com/

01 * Thursday Red Wings vs Leigh Valley Let's go out to the Ball Game! Watch as the Rochester Redwings take on their rivals, enjoy the action and check out the website for game updates. 705pm. Frontier Field // Red Wings Baseball, 1 Morrie Silver Way, Rochester 14608. 454-1001. redwingsbaseball.com/

02 * Friday Tales and Tails Story Time Story hour with farm animal visitor! Come for stories and meet a new farm animal friend. The event is free of charge and open to the public, but no buses please. No registration is required. 11am. Wickham Farms, 1821 Fairport Nine Mile Point Road, Penfield 14526. 377-3276. wickhamfarms.com R

Animal Tales Story Time at Lollypop Farm Snuggle up on a fluffy pillow and enjoy

an animal-themed story or two and a humane education component. It's a great way to introduce the wonder of animals to the little ones of the family. Held every Friday in the Indoor Barn Classroom. 11:30am. Lollypop Farm, 99 Victor Rd., Fairport 14450. 223-1330 x 173. lollypop.org/education

www.RocParent.com

05 * Monday Rockets, Robots & Ray Guns Exhibit Closing Last chance to learn about the ways

that science-fiction books, toys, movies, and video games have captured people’s imaginations and shaped the way they play. Travel to distant futures and faraway galaxies to explore key themes such as space heroes, Strong National Museum of Play, One Manhattan Square, Rochester 14607. 2632700. www.museumofplay.org/

09 * Friday Animal Tales Story Time at Lollypop Farm Snuggle up on a fluffy pillow and enjoy

Tales and Tails Story Time Story hour with

farm animal visitor! Come for stories and meet a new farm animal friend. The event is free of charge and open to the public, but no buses please. No registration is required. 11am. Wickham Farms, 1821 Fairport Nine Mile Point Road, Penfield 14526. 377-3276. wickhamfarms.com

The Force at Play Exhibit Closing Last

chance to learn how the Star Wars movie franchise revolutionized play and playthings in the exclusive The Force at Play—a companion exhibit to Rockets, Robots, and Ray Guns. View dozens of artifacts from The Strong’s collections.... Strong National Museum of Play, One Manhattan Square, Rochester 14607. 263-2700. www.museumofplay.org/

10 * Saturday Rochester Rhinos vs New York Enjoy the

game with family and friends. Check the website for game day specials and promotions. 505pm. Rhinos Stadium, 460 Oak St., Rochester 14608. 454-3000. www.rhinossoccer.com

2/15/13

are you planning a party? CHECK OUR PARTY & CELEBRATION GUIDE FOR ARTICLES & GREAT PARTY IDEAS!

WWW.ROCPARENT.COM Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent â&#x20AC;¢ July/August 2016

FIVE

PLACES

By Debra Jacobson

all things art FIVE PLACES TO ENJOY ART

ntroduce your kids to our city’s great places to enjoy art. Spark their inner creativity and show them all styles of art. Make a day of it traveling from one studio to another or spread it out over several weekends. You may even get some ideas to elaborate on at home.

ANDERSON ALLEY ARTISTS // PETER & JUDY GOHRINGER

Artisan Works

565 Blossom Road, Suite L, Rochester, NY 14610, 585-288-7170, www.artisanworks.net A cross between an art gallery and an incubator for emerging artists, you’ll see an impressive collection of artwork, antique cars, neon signs and nostalgia pieces. Wind through the many areas of Artisan Works and see a number of artist’s work and creations! Visit the unique works in sculpture, painting, and roughly 500,000 items in this spectacular 40,000 square foot renovated factory building.

Anderson Alley Artists 250 Goodman Street North, Rochester NY 14607, www.andersonalleyartists.com

Anderson Alley Artists is a community of artists with studios on the 2nd, 3rd and 4th floors of the Anderson Arts Building (a former shoe factory). In the heart of Rochester’s Neighborhood of the Arts, this is a treasure to introduce your kids to, but plan to go back as one visit won’t be enough. Kids will love interacting with the artists and asking questions or being shown the wide variety of different art forms.

www.RocParent.com

Rochester Contemporary Art Center

137 East Avenue, 14604 Rochester, NY, 585461-2222, www.rochestercontemporary.org Visit this downtown location with your kids to get a sense of what contemporary art is about. This art center includes special events, current rotating exhibitions and public art with site-specific installations. Don’t miss the 6”x6” annual show where kids are encouraged to submit a piece of art. This gallery will wow your kids!

Memorial Art Gallery

500 University Avenue, Rochester NY 14607, 585-276-8900, www. mag.rochester.edu Introduce your kids to the many varieties of art in MAG’s permanent collection and traveling exhibitions. Strolling through the gallery may be for the older child, as a quiet nature is important. For the budding artist, enroll your child in their creative workshop classes where kids can see explore their creativity and imagination.

RIT's Gallery r

100 College Avenue, Rochester, NY 14607, 585-256-3312, www.galleryr.rit.edu Gallery R is RIT’s metro art space which features exhibitions and projects by RIT students, faculty, alumni and visiting artists. The gallery is open to the public Thursday – Sunday, 1-5pm. If your child is art-oriented or interested in a variety of art forms, take them to see this gallery!

Rochester & Genesee Valley Parent â&#x20AC;˘ July/August 2016