June 2023

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Paul M. Kline

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Paul M. Kline

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Michele Miller

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Karen Wawszczyk

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Michelle Richter

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Barbara Blackburn • Donna Phillips

Shannon Carpenter • Deborah Williams

Kathy Lundquist • Mike Daugherty

Meagan Ruffing

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Where It’s At!

Happy Father’s Day!

Features:

6 n 10 Fun and Creative Ways to Celebrate Dad by Rebecca Hastings

8 n Have Attitudes About Stay-AtHome Dads Changed? by Christopher A. Brown

9 n Swim Tips to Make Summer a Splashing Success by Rebecca

What’s New... IN THE KIDBIZ web.finds

SAFE PLAYGROUNDS ARE ESSENTIAL INFRASTRUCTURE

MAKE YOUR OWN FATHER’S DAY TROPHY CARD

Get crafty this Father’s Day and send a card that can be transformed into a fun desktop decoration. This “Make your Own Trophy” Father’s Day card will keep the kids (and Dad) busy on Father’s Day. The card is printed onto high quality TruCard, a specialist greetings card material that is glossy coated and scratch-proof on the outside, and uncoated on the inside so it’s easy to write on, and is used for high-quality greeting cards that last. The card is blank inside for your own message. Designed and printed in the UK. ($3.79 U.S. plus shipping.) Order it at https://yeticardsandgifts.com/collections/fathers-day/products/ make-your-own-trophy-fathers-day-card

PERSONALIZED BOBBLEHEAD!

You can’t find a more personalized gift than this! Choose a body, upload a photo, and you have a customized bobblehead of dad! Choose from cartoon and movie characters such as Darth Vader and Batman, or various professions such as sports figures or even an astronaut! Female characters are available, too, when mom has a special occasion. From Statue Gift. ($59.98 for the item pictured; prices vary by choice.) Check out the details at https://www.statuegift.com/collections/cartoon-movies

Six in seven U.S. adults want their local government to make investments that ensure children have access to safe and inclusive playgrounds, according to the latest National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) Park Pulse poll.

Ninety-five percent of all park and recreation agencies include playgrounds as a part of their essential infrastructure. Ensuring children have access to safe and inclusive play opportunities is of the highest priority.

The National Recreation and Park Association offers the industry-leading certification program in playground safety, the Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI) certification program. The CPSI certification program provides the most comprehensive and up-to-date training on playground safety issues.

EXPECTANT DAD MUG

For the dad-in-waiting, we loved the message on this mug! Comes in two sizes, 11 ounces and 15 ounces. (Price starts at $22.46 with free shipping in the U.S.) By Hot Design Gifts, Etsy. Order it at https://www.etsy. com/listing/1016711140/fathers-day-gifts2023-first-time-dad

DIY PHOTO FRAME

Older kids can help make this “We’re Nuts About You Dad” keepsake that starts out with an unfinished wood or MDF frame, a family photo sized to fit the frame, acrylic craft paint, vinyl decals or alphabet stickers for the lettering, assorted nuts in various shapes and sizes, and Elmer’s Craft Bond Glue to affix them to the painted frame. Choose a frame that stands by itself or be sure to attach a frame hanger on the back. Full details can be found at https://www.happinessishomemade.net/nuts-about-you-photo-frame-gift-idea/

The NRPA provides a 12-point playground safety checklist called “The Daily Dozen,” which can help you learn to identify safety hazards at your neighborhood playground. Those 12 points include proper surfacing soft enough to cushion a fall; accessibility of equipment and location to allow opportunities for children with disabilities to play; a design which makes it easy for a parent or caregiver to provide adequate supervision; age appropriate equipment; proper equipment for use on public playgrounds (heavy metal swings, free swinging ropes, for example, are not acceptable); adequate use zones (the area around playground equipment onto which a child would fall, usually a minimum of 72 inches); protrusion and entanglement hazards; potential for head and neck entrapment; trip hazards; crush, shear, and sharp edges hazards; proper maintenance; and inspection by a certified inspector.

For more details on “The Daily Dozen” and how to become a certified playground safety inspector visit www.nrpa.org/siteassets/the-dailydozen-12-point-playground-safetychecklist.pdf.

It’s time to celebrate dads! We had fun searching for unusual ideas to make dad’s special day a bit more fun! Some are custom made or may have to be shipped internationally, so don’t delay in making your choice!

“I was taken by surprise by the amount of love my kids can deliver to the entire family. When helping to raise my two kids into emotionally literate little people, and giving them respect as individuals within our family that I never had, they exploded with kindness, love, emotional truths, and trust. It has made me seek therapy to unravel the mess I learned to bottle up. In reality, they are a great example of what I strive to be as an emotional, loving, and empathetic person.”

10 Fun and Creative Ways to Celebrate Dad

— by Rebecca Hastings

Every dad needs reminders of how much he is loved and valued. While you don’t want to forgo the handmade cards and the offbeat kid ideas, these 10 ways to celebrate dad are sure to remind him of how much you care and give everyone some fun along the way.

1) Scavenger Hunt: This works for kids of all ages, plus it can be as involved as you want it to be. Come up with fun clues like “As a dad I could not ask for better, your next clue is where you find a letter,” to lead dad around the house to find a Father’s Day prize. You can make up your own clues or download a set from Etsy. You’re sure to get lots of giggles from kids every step of the way.

To make this work with older kids, you can even take the hunt beyond the house to go to places around town. Give him a clue when he arrives at each location, eventually ending up at a favorite restaurant or event like a baseball game or concert.

2) Memory Lane: Even the most macho dads can appreciate a little trip

down memory lane, especially for Father’s Day. Break out some old photos and create a short movie full of memories for him. This is the perfect project for tweens and teens to take charge of. For younger helpers, get photos printed and have them create a poster of memories.

It’s even great to get photos from before dad was, well, a dad. Give him the chance to tell stories about who he was as a kid and before he embraced dad life.

3) Finish a Project: Every dad we know has some project they started that they never got around to finishing because dad life is busy. Work together to help him finish a project. Whether it’s finally building the shelves he needs or planting the garden he dreams of, working together will make the project even sweeter.

4) Challenge: This can be as crazy as you want it to be. Think outdoor races or a bake-off. Maybe a game of basketball or chess. Discover a fun challenge you can do for some friendly competi-

tion and time together.

5) Serve Him: This is not giving him a coupon for help in the yard or washing his car. This is about actually doing it. Surprise dad and wash the car inside and out. Pack his lunch for the next day. Take care of a job he always does so he can put his feet up and relax. Bonus points if you bring him some lemonade and cookies!

6) Explore a Favorite Spot: Does he love a certain hiking trail or beach? Maybe there’s a bookstore that he never has time to meander through or that hardware store that he loves. Even a coffee shop that makes his favorite latte.

From Left, Calvin (They/ Them) age 8, Sonia (She/ Her) age 11, Zach (He/Him) age 46)

Find a place you know he enjoys and get him there.

You can have him go on his own if he likes some quiet time to himself or make it a family affair if that’s more his speed. No matter how you do it, just make sure it’s one of his favorite places.

7) Discover a New Place: It’s easy for parents to get so caught up in the day-to-day that they run out of time for exploring new places. Give dad the gift of exploration.

You can go old school and road trip with no plan in mind, but it’s usually better to have a few ideas up your sleeve. Websites like OnlyInYourState.com can help you find everything from wacky restaurants, hikes you never knew about, abandoned places, and even road trip trails to take you on an adventure to the state’s best ice cream spots, breweries, and more.

8) Make a Summer Bucket List (Dad Edition!): Even dad has a list of things he’d love to do. Sometimes it gets buried under work and baseball practice and goodnight stories. Father’s Day is the perfect time to dust it off!

Get a poster and some markers or create a shared family list on your phone

for Dad’s Summer Bucket List. Ask him what he wants to do before summer is over. And it can’t be all work and house things. Make sure he has fun little outings like going to his favorite ice cream shop and some bigger ideas like boogie boarding at the state beach. Even reading through a favorite book or seeing a movie counts!

The only requirement: make time for the things on the list. Putting them on the calendar is the key to making them happen.

9) Favorite Foods: From sunup to sundown, fill the day with dad’s favorite foods. Does he love a Caffè Americano and donuts? Maybe a protein shake from that place across town? How about burgers and fries? Add a milkshake? You got it!

Whatever it is, the day isn’t about what the kids like (sorry kids!). It’s a chance for dad to eat the things he loves and enjoy every bite. He doesn’t even have to share!

10) More Than a Day: The fun doesn’t have to last for just one day. Make it an overnight or a weekend. Plan a family vacation that you know he’d love. It doesn’t need to be far or expensive (although that resort he’s dreamed about isn’t a terrible idea!). Think about things he loves and start there.

Does he love the outdoors? Maybe a campout is a perfect idea (even in the backyard!). Is he a museum guy? Plan an overnight to go to an art installation or even a fun place like the Spy Museum. Whatever dad likes, you can find a place he will enjoy. And the best part? The time you’ll have together!

Rebecca Hastings is a former elementary teacher who traded the classroom for writing when she stayed home with her three children. Passionate about authenticity, faith, and family, you can find her at RebeccaHastings.net and on Amazon. In real life, she can often be found typing words, driving her kids places, or wherever there is chocolate.

“I love connecting with them and seeing them smile and giving them lots of hugs and kisses.”

Jose

What’s your attitude toward stay-at-home dads?

Do you view them positively or negatively?

No matter your attitude, you’re undoubtedly aware that more dads than ever have made this choice. Stay-athome dads reached a record high in 2021.

Historically, Americans have viewed stay-at-home dads ambiguously at best and downright negatively at worst. But if you’ve paid attention to the media lately, you’d think that most Americans have a positive view of dads choosing to take care of the home front while moms or partners take on the role of sole breadwinner.

But according to a recent study, while Americans’ views have become more positive, they’re conditional. They depend on why dads choose to stay-athome.

The study reviewed portrayals of stay-at-home dads in 94 articles published in leading newspapers and magazines from 1987 to 2016. The lead researchers concluded that:

Have Attitudes About StayAt-Home Dads Changed?

— by Christopher A. Brown

“…news portrayals of stay-at-home dads have indeed become more positive over time. But the growing support for full-time caregiver fathers is conditional. Dads who lost their jobs because of involuntary unemployment are viewed sympathetically, especially since the Great Recession. But dads who are able to work, but choose to stay home with children instead, are still described negatively. As much as we’d like to think that the gender-bending phenomenon of (slightly) increasing numbers of dads at home is a harbinger of more fundamental gender liberalization, our results suggest that this is not unambiguously the case.”

But what about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, you say?

After all, this analysis included only one of the two most recent economic shocks. The pandemic forced many dads into the home either because they lost their jobs or had to work from home.

Well...the study extended the period of time through 2021 to consider the impact of the pandemic. Even taking the impact of the pandemic into account, the researchers concluded:

“Over the period we studied, staying home became more common among dads—especially after the Great Reces-

sion of 2007-9. But the number of dads who reported they were home specifically to take care of children was still very low—less than two percent in 2021. And prior to the pandemic, rates of staying home had begun to go down among dads of younger children, declining almost to pre-Great Recession levels by 2019. These patterns also suggest that the postrecession increase in dads staying home was not a result of long-lasting changes in attitudes and ideologies about gender and work, but rather was a temporary response to economic precarity.”

In other words, the more things change, the more they remain the same. We have a more positive view of stay-athome dads generally speaking, but that view has changed gradually over the past few decades with little or no impact from recent economic shocks. Moreover, the more positive view is limited to dads who have no other choice than to stay at home.

So, what’s a stay-at-home dad to do and think? I say, “Make the choice that’s right for you and your family. Don’t worry about what anyone else thinks.” And isn’t that what we want for all dads and families?

To learn more visit the National Fatherood Initiative at fatherhood.org.

Rebecca Hastings

Swim Tips to Make Summer a Splashing Success

Swimming is one of the great joys of summer. There’s something magical about cooling off and splashing in the water that kids and parents love. But it can also be tricky to navigate. Reluctant swimmers, lessons, age-appropriate activities, and swim safety, make it essential to have a game plan for summer swimming that keeps everyone safe and having fun.

Safety First

Safe swimming is the foundation for a successful swim experience for everyone. While we all have different experiences, there are a few safety musts for all swimmers (even parents!).

• Never swim alone. Having another person there helps reduce the risk of drowning according to health and safety investigator Caitlin Hoff because there is someone else there to get help if needed.

• Ideally, have a lifeguard or designated person to watch the water. This helps to have a bird’s eye view of everything happening in the water.

• Be realistic about abilities. Know people’s abilities in the water and keep them in mind when around any bodies of water including pools, lakes, and the ocean.

• Know CPR. It’s easy to think you know what to do in an emergency, but official CPR training will help eliminate hesitation when seconds

count.

• Have a phone. Keep a phone nearby to call 911 quickly in an emergency.

• Use approved devices. Ensure you and your child wear approved life jackets. Setting an example for kids is important, but it is even more important that you can help if something goes wrong. Emergencies happen quickly, and everyone needs to be prepared. The Red Cross recommends life jackets in the following situations:

• For small kids and weak swimmers: anytime they are near water.

• For everyone: when they are on or in open water, boating, doing water-based sports, or around cold water/ice.

Learn Well

Learning to swim is an important follow-up to general safety near the water. Kids as young as one-year-old can start to learn about being in the water safely and build up to learning to swim. Keep in mind, a one-year-old is not learning to swim as much as they are learning to be comfortable in the water. A certified instructor will help teach the fundamentals of swimming as well as the most important skill — floating.

Learning how to tread water and float are excellent life preservation skills for people in case of a water emergency.

The importance of this cannot be overlooked as this skill can keep your child alive until help arrives.

A note for adults — It is never too late to learn these skills. If you don’t know how to swim or cannot swim well, seek lessons from an instructor who works with adults.

When to introduce your child to the water depends on so many circumstances, but the earlier you start, the more time they have to learn and grow into a strong, confident swimmer.

Addressing Issues

Swimming and water play aren’t fun for everyone. Sometimes kids are reluctant to be near the water or have fears based on previous experiences. Other times, parents are uncertain so they avoid the water to keep everyone safe. The best solution is to address water issues honestly and with patience.

Reluctant swimmers: Take a calm, non-pressured approach to water exposure and learning. Find an instructor that has experience with reluctant swimmers to help. Pushing kids in the water so they “get over it” is never a good solution. Neither is avoiding water altogether. Exposing kids in a safe, encouraging way is the most beneficial approach.

Refusal to swim: Learning basic water skills is a lifelong safety lesson. If your child refuses to try, it can be tempting to give in, thinking it’s not essential. However, a general level of comfort and ability in the water could be lifesaving later on. Be firm in your resolve to walk through this with your child so they have what they need to be safe in a water situation.

Fear after a water event: If your child experiences or sees a scary water event, it can feel scary for them to try swimming again. Give your child space to talk about the issue. Consider talking to your pediatrician or a counselor to help process the event and how to move forward.

Have Fun

Whether you are at the pool, a lake, or the ocean, swimming should be fun! These tips will help you ensure water play is something you and your child look forward to in the summer — safely and happily!

Your Best Summer is One Word Away

Summer is the great playtime of the year. There’s beach time and pool time. Lazy days on hammocks and fun days exploring. There are books to be read and parties to attend, and things to pick up, and it just keeps going. Summer is like recess; a break from the responsibilities. Except when it’s not.

I find myself holding this idea that summer should be FANTASTIC and FUN and SUN. But there’s still laundry and cooking and vacuuming. The bills keep coming and the everyday-ness of life still happens.

How can we enjoy summer for the respite that it is, while still living in the real world?

I’m watching calendar days fly by, and I’m filled with equal parts excitement and dread. Our family routines will all change in just a few short weeks when spring officially becomes summer. I want to enjoy every minute before we start back-to-school shopping and setting alarm clocks.

Let’s not kid ourselves into thinking this starts on June 21. No, summer starts around here when the kids finish school. And it’s not even the last day of school. It’s when school responsibilities give

— by Rebecca Hastings

way to school fun days, and homework dwindles as after-dinner playtime extends. We’re close around here, and I’ve found one way that helps me get through it — and enjoy it.

I was inspired a few years ago when I watched a webinar by Lysa Terkeurst. It was around the time she launched her book The Best Yes (which I highly recommend). Everything she said made sense and I found myself nodding along, but one thing stuck with me well beyond the webinar.

The book is based on the premise that we must choose the best “yeses” for our life. If we say YES to everything, we miss out on things we may really want. Instead, we have to choose only the best things to say yes to.

To help with this, she introduced the idea of choosing a word. When faced with the season ahead, she chose one word that would become her litmus test for all other things that season. I don’t remember what her word was, but I remember that it felt easy. It wasn’t one more thing on my endless lists. No, this idea brought freedom.

I thought about it and realized that I couldn’t come up with one word. There were too many things that were impor-

tant. Instead of putting too much pressure on myself (or giving up completely) I came up with three: family, books, and relaxation. These were the very things my family needed most that summer.

Every time we had an opportunity to do something, an invitation, a request, a plea, I ran my litmus test: does it support family, books, and relaxing? If the answer was yes, we ran to it. If the answer was no, it permitted me to say it wasn’t right for us right now. It gave me the permission and framework I needed to let go of things that didn’t serve us well, and it felt great.

Your words will be different. My words this year will be different (although I’m thinking that family one is sticking around!) I’m still picking my words. Here are a few ideas to get you thinking:

• family

• peace

• joy

• fun

• adventure

• helpful

• quiet

• busy

• relaxed

• home

• water

• outdoors

These are just a few ideas! Your summer can have whatever look you want it to. Choosing a word (or a few) that are the goals you have for this season will enable you to make choices that give you the very summer you want.

Yes, there are things we still need to do. The laundry needs to get done (although maybe less if you spend long days in bathing suits). We still need to feed our people (but maybe relaxed means simple meals outside or more takeout.) Work needs to happen, and the lawn still needs to be mowed. But when we make our choices through the lens we want to look through, it will be a lot more enjoyable.

We get to choose how our summer goes.

This test is not one more thing to do. It is the very thing that will free you to let go so you can create your best summer ever!

What words will YOU use to create your best summer ever?

Making The Right Camp Choice

Summer camps have become an absolute necessity for many working parents who need coverage during the weeks when school is no longer in session, but camp has always been an important experience for children.

Summer camp provides numerous benefits, many of which last a lifetime.

Camp experiences allow children to make new friends, relate to adult supervisors other than their parents, develop a sense of independence and self-confidence, as well as the ability to work with others as a team.

In today’s technology-oriented world, summer camp gets kids away from their screens and outdoors to interact with the natural world. Sports and physical activities get kids moving — literally — toward increased fitness levels.

Camp is a natural extension of the classroom — today’s camps offer many traditional activities such as swimming, arts and crafts, and hikes, but there are many creative and exciting opportunities to explore specific areas such as performing in a theater production, learning to dance, riding a horse, or trying gymnastics.

Choosing a camp is a very individual decision based on many factors. Some important questions to ask are:

1) How does the camp recruit its staff? What type of training do the camp counselors have? How old are they? Are background checks done? Do they have first aid training?

2) What is the ratio of counselors to campers? Day camp guidelines call for 1:8 for children ages 6-8; 1:10 for children ages 9-14; and 1:12 for ages 15-18.

3) Ask about return rates. How many staff members return each year? How many campers return? Ask for references — talk to some parents who have recently sent their children to the camp.

Visit the American Camping Association’s website at www.aca.org for more complete parent checklists to help you determine if your child is ready for a summer camp experience and the questions to ask when “interviewing” a camp to see if it’s a good fit for your child and your family.

Summer Dance Workshop

Classical Camp

Vocal Camp

2023

Classical Camp

July 24 - July 28

Small and large ensembles, theory, piano, and conducting classes.

Vocal Camp

July 24 - July 28

Choral and small group ensemble rehearsals, musical literacy courses, sight reading, and, movement.

Jazz Camp

July 31 - August 4

Jazz Camp

Musical Theater

Songwriting, piano, Theory, Jazz Improvisation, Jazz Combos

Musical Theatre Camp

July 31 - August 4

Immerses student in all aspects of a theatrical production. Vocal lessons, dance lessons, acting lessons

The Summer Arts Institute is designed for students in grades 7-12.

Registration Cost: $200.00 per week

For more information, contact Dr. Rick Fleming at 716-878-6504 or fleminrl@BuffaloState.edu

Register online at www.music.buffalostate.edu/summer-music-institute

Daddy Daddy The Track

– by Shannon Carpenter

Tips and Tricks for the Great American Road Trip

The Great American Road Trip Season is upon us. It’s like baseball season but with more bears. The family road trip finds its heart in the tradition. Fathers head out like ancient explorers. Our steeds are our minivans, our companions are toddlers, and the gas station bathroom is our oasis. On these road trips, we get a chance to make the memories that will last.

I’m lucky enough that I get to take an expedition with my three kids every year. Our destinations are the weird and unusual. As we all know, it’s the gas mileage you make on the way that really matters.

A group of dads joins my family and we set out. Typically, we rack up around twelve hundred miles on forgotten pavement. The motto is that we aren’t adventuring until we’ve hit a dirt road somewhere. We’ve been doing this since the kids were less than six months old, and I’ve loved every minute of it. I’ve also learned the do’s and don’ts that I can pass on to the next generation of parents.

1) Bears always have the right of way. You would think this would be a no-brainer, and yet, here we are.

2) Place an activity basket between the seats. Get a basket

filled with coloring books, car toys, crayons, or whatever else. And not the toys they have at home. Go to the dollar store and make a big deal out of it. These are things that aren’t touched prior to the trip so they keep their magic about them.

3) Trash bags should be everywhere. All the time. You know why.

4) Care kit. You are going to forget something. No matter how much you prepare, diaper or butt cream is not going to be where it’s supposed to be. Do yourself a favor and the week before, make a care kit containing a duplicate of all the essentials your kid will need. I once left home for a threeday trip and forgot my kid’s luggage.

5) Seek out the goofy. Not every stop has to be a majestic attraction. Take time to see weird things because it’s these stops that will be a core memory. My kids don’t remember seeing Calamity Jane’s grave. They do remember seeing the giant jackalope. Yes, they are tourist traps. Allow yourself to be caught.

6) Schedule stuff for yourself. As parents, we often ask ourselves “Will the kids enjoy this?” Sometimes the better question is “Will I enjoy this?” For example, my kids have no idea who

Mickey Mantle was. To me, he is a part of Americana. Stopping at his boyhood home was a thrill for me. To my kids, it was just a house. As was the birthplace of John Wayne, Roy Rogers, Johnny Cash, General George Pershing, Mark Twain — and okay, maybe I do this one a little too much.

7) Order food through one person. When sixteen kids and five dads walk into a local diner, the eyes of the waitress fall. I know that she is silently praying that she wins the lottery, so she doesn’t have to be here. However, we have a system. The dads gather all the orders, and then the waitress only talks to us. We streamline the process. Now that my kids are teens, they text me their orders.

8) Quit early and go to pools often. On those long travel days, knock off a bit earlier than you normally would. The kids are tired, you’re tired, and that’s not the reason you are doing this. And with a pool as the promise after a long day, it gives the kids something to look forward to. Normally, our goal is to be at the hotel by three or four in the afternoon. We give up travel time just so we can have family time. This is especially good for kids that are younger.

9) Under no circumstances should you eat gas station sushi. Don’t ask me how I know this.

10) Wildlife is wildlife. For the love of all that is holy, don’t try to pet the moose, bear cub, or possum that is foaming at the mouth. Please remember to remind your toddlers about this!

Shannon Carpenter is the father of three and has been a stay-at-home dad since 2008. He’s the author of the book “Stayat-Home Dad: Your Essential Manual for Being an Awesome Full-Time Father” as well as the co-host of Dadhouse Pod. In addition to his writing on parenting, he is also a humor writer trained through the famous Second City. And we all know that having a sense of humor is essential to surviving parenthood!

African Lion Safari

Go “On Safari!™” and get closer than you ever imagined to over 1,000 exotic birds and animals from around the world. Drive through 9 km of safari trail in your own car or take a guided air-conditioned Safari Tour Bus. Open daily May 6 - September 4 and select dates from September 5 to October 8 2023.

1386 Cooper Rd., Cambridge, Ontario, Canada N1R 5S2 • 1-800-461-WILD (9453) www.lionsafari.com

See ad on page 21

Aquarium of Niagara

Go on an aquatic adventure at the Aquarium of Niagara! Meet more than 120 species of animals including rescued seals and sea lions, penguins, jellyfish, and more. Enjoy presentations, hands-on animal interactions, and educational demonstrations. Open daily at 9am.

701 Whirlpool St., Niagara Falls, NY 14301 • 716-285-3575

www.aquariumofniagara.org

Arcade and Attica Railroad

See ad on page 23

Come aboard the Arcade & Attica Railroad and step back in time on our 2 1/2 hour excursion. May - December with many special events. Be sure to visit our website.

278 Main Street, Arcade, NY 14 009 • 585-492-3100

www. aarailroad.com

Bird Kingdom

See ad on page 20

Bird Kingdom is the World’s Largest Free-Flying Indoor Aviary. This World Class Attraction is a 5 minute Walk from Niagara Falls. (Open All Year) Encounter Exotic Birds, Animals and Reptiles as you search for the legendary Lost Kingdom.

5651 River Road, Niagara Falls, Ontario L2E 7M7 • 905-356-8888

www.birdkingdom.ca

Buffalo Zoo

See ad on page 20

Open daily, the Buffalo Zoo features a diverse collection of exotic animals and plant life. Stop by during the day to explore the exhibits and come back at night for Zoomagination: The Festival of Lanterns and Lights all summer long!

300 Parkside Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14214 • 716-837-3900

www.buffalozoo.org

Discover Niagara Shuttle

See ad on page 21

Enjoy a day of discovery as you connect to over 17 destination sites along the 14 mile route from the “Falls to the Fort” on the free Discover Niagara Shuttle. Park and discover!

716-222-0729

www.discoverniagarashuttle.com

Hidden Valley Animal Adventure

See ad on page 20

Nestled in the hills of Varysburg in Wyoming County, Hidden Valley Animal Adventure is one of Western New York’s most unique attractions. Escape to the wild with an hour-long guided safari tour, or self-drive through the park, for up close and personal interactions with animals from around the world including camels, zebra, llama, elk, bison and many more.

2887 Royce Road, Varysburg, NY 14167 • 585-535-4100

www.hiddenvalleyadventure.com

See ad on page 23

As of our issue print date, the following events were scheduled for 2023. Be sure to check websites for the most current information and registration requirements.

June

2-4 • Geneseo Air Show

Geneseo

nationalwarplanemuseum.com

2-4 • Allegany Nature

Pilgrimage

Allelgany State Park

alleganynaturepilgrimage.com

4 • The King’s Birthday Youngstown oldfortniagara.org

4 • Independence Day Celebration Mumford

gcv.org

9-11 • Ten Mile

Garage Sale Lewiston

wnypapers.com

10 • Safety Fair & Touch aTruck

Lewiston

nypa.gov/niagarapowervista

10-11 • Civil War Garrison Youngstown oldfortniagara.org

Continued on page 24

Attractions

Midway State Park

Make lasting memories at one of the oldest amusement parks in the nation! Family friendly atmosphere with nostalgic rides, arcade, gokarts, mini-golf, gift shop, museum, and great food! Open Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day (see our website for days/hours).

4859 Route 430, Bemus Point, NY 14712 • 716-386-3165 parks.ny.gov/parks/midway

Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours

See ad on page 22

On a 45-minute jetboat tour of the Niagara River, Whirlpool Jet gives guests a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to comfortably experience the Niagara Gorge. Get soaked on the Wet Jet or choose wet or dry seating on the Freedom Jet, and join us for a tour of our whitewater playground. Great for all ages 4+.

115 S Water Street, Lewiston, NY 14092 • 888-438-4444 www.whirlpooljet.com

See ad on page 23

“Your Profile Could Have Been Here! We publish the “Summer GO! Guide” every year in our June issue.

Mark your calendar for our 2024 “Summer GO! Guide”.

Contact Paul Kline at 716-836-3486 to secure your space for next year!”

Arcade & Attica Railroad

“Come aboard the Arcade & Attica Railroad and step back in time on our 2 1/2 hour excursion!” TRAIN EXCURSIONS MAY – DECEMBER with many special events

278 Main St. • Arcade, NY 14009 585-492-3100

www. aarailroad . com

MakingMemories

Located on the shores of beautiful Chautauqua Lake, Midway State Park is a family treasure.

Originally established in 1898 as a trolley park, Midway State Park is one of the oldest continually operating amusement parks in the nation.

Midway State Park offers a family friendly atmosphere that visitors have come to love.

Patrons can take a nostalgic ride on the vintage carousel, play a game of mini golf, take a spin on the tilt-a whirl and ride the go-karts, or watch their children enjoy themselves on the many kiddie rides. And, while some may prefer to relax while enjoying cotton candy, others can stop by the Gift Shop or test their skills at classic midway games.

SUMMER

As of our issue print date, the following events were scheduled for 2023. Be sure to check websites for the most current information and registration requirements.

June cont.

10-11 • Allentown Art Festival Buffalo allentownartfestival.com

10-11 • Celtic Faire Mumford gcv.org

10-11 • Strawberry Festival Forestville merrittestatewinery.com

11 • Fairy Festival Buffalo buffalogardens.com

11 • 26th Annual Duck Race Olcott Harbor olcott-newfane.com

16-18 • Kenmore Days Kenmore villageofkenmore.org

17 • Honoring Juneteenth Mumford gcv.org

17 • Dragon Boat Festival Buffalo RiverWorks hopechestbuffalo.org

Continued on page 25

Campgrounds

Houghton Letchworth KOA

Only 12 miles from Letchworth State Park, this tranquil, family-owned KOA offers more than 80 sites for trailers & tents, along with cabins to rent. Enjoy themed-weekends, catch-and-release fishing, playgrounds, a general store, indoor & outdoor heated pools and a fun-filled lodge!

7632 Centerville Rd., Houghton, NY 14744 • 585-567-4211

www.HoughtonKOA.com

Sleepy Hollow Lake

See ad on page 26

Family friendly campground that offers a wide variety of activities and events. RV, tent and cabin available. Many on-site and planned activities for the entire family. We offer a lake, swimming, fishing, kayaking, tennis, mini golf, themed weekends, rec hall and more!

13800 Siehl Rd., Akron, NY 14001 • 716-542-4336

www.sleepyhollowcamp.com

Fairs & Festivals

Old Home Days

See ad on page 26

The Jolly Boys of Williamsville are proud to sponsor the 45th annual Old Home Days. This year, Bank on Buffalo has become a major corporate sponsor to help us with the event. All proceeds are donated to youth groups in the area.

Island Park, 5565 Main Street, Williamsville, NY 14221

www.oldhomedayswilliamsville.com

Family Programs

JCC Buffalo

See ad on page 35

With 2 convenient locations, the JCC features 2 heated indoor pools, a heated outdoor pool, playgrounds, sand volleyball, pickleball, snack shack, and everything else needed for the best summer ever! Join us for Day Camp for children in Grades K-10, relax at the pristine outdoor pool, make new friends, fly down the Dual Zipline, climb the rock wall, and so much more!

787 Delaware at Summer in Buffalo, NY 14209 • 716-886-3172

2640 North Forest Rd. (behind UB at Audubon), Amherst, NY 14068 • 716-688-4033

www.jccbuffalo.org

Farms & Markets

Becker Farms & Vizcarra Vineyards

See ad on page 18

Open every day! Kids welcome, pick your own berries, farm market, pies, ice cream, farm animals, play ground/picnic area. Visit Vizcarra Vineyards and Becker Farms and Becker Brewing Company for wine and beer tastings!

3724 Quaker Rd., Gasport, NY 14067 • 716-772-2211

www.beckerfarms.com

See ad on page 26

Greg’s U-Pick Farm

An in the dirt, educational, hands on experience for the entire family! CSA shares, U-pick strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and pumpkins available. Visit our farm market and bakery for fresh produce, pies, and more! Bring a group, book a field trip. Pick here! Grow here! Have fun here!

9270 Lapp Road, Clarence Center, N Y 14032 • 716-741-4239

www.gregsupick.com

Hamburg Farmers Market

SUMMER FUN

See ad on page 35

The Hamburg Farmers Market is open for their 46th season! With a rotation of 75+ vendors, the market provides a way for communities to access fresh fruits, vegetables and other locally sourced products! Come visit us and find out more!

21 Church Street, Hamburg, NY 14075 • 716-649-7917

www.southtownsregionalchamber.org

Hands-On Fun!

As of our issue print date, the following events were scheduled for 2023. Be sure to check websites for the most current information and registration requirements.

See ad on page 29

Buffalo & Erie County Public Libraries

The 37 Buffalo & Erie County Public Libraries & the “Library on Wheels” bookmobile provide a variety of year-round, all-ages programs, services, youth sports kits, resources, and more. Libraries are for everyone. And, libraries are fine free – plus library cards are free! Visit us soon! • 716-858-8900

See ad on page 29

June cont.

17 • Animal Play Day West Falls hawkcreek.org

www.BuffaloLib.org

Clay Hands Pottery

Paint yourself silly this Summer! It’s easy, pick your piece from a large selection of pottery and choose your paints to make your one of a kind creation! Clay Hands offers birthday parties and girls night out, scouts, bridal parties and so much more!! Gift Certificates Available.

10086 Main Street, Clarence, NY 14031 • 716-759-1208

www.clayhandspottery.com Please include your phone number.

See ad on page 26

Designing Dish

Everyone is an artist at Designing Dish – a paint your own pottery store featuring Glass Fusing. Now offering Pottery To Go Kits for individuals and for groups, field trips and private parties. Celebrate summer by visiting us. Facebook and Instagram.

138 Grey St., East Aurora, NY 14052 • 716-655-4456

www.designingdish.com

See ad on page 27

Powerful Fun at the Niagara Power Vista!

Exciting activities and fun special events for all ages at the Niagara Power Vista. A top-rated destination on TripAdvisor, we are open year-round, with Free admission and parking. 50+ Interactive exhibits, including 4D simulated ride. Only minutes from the Falls – Free seasonal shuttle. ACA compliant.

5777 Lewiston Road (Route 104), Lewiston, NY 14092 716-286-6661

www.NYPA.gov/NiagaraPowerVista

Horseback Riding

Greendale Farm

See ad on page 20

17 • 8th Annual Mermaid Festival Olcott olcott-newfane.com

17-18 • Lewiston GardenFest Lewiston lewistongardenfest.com

18 • Free Admission for Dads Mumford gcv.org

24 • Kids Fishing Derby Olcott olcott-newfane.com

24-25 • Free Fishing Days

All Fresh Waters of NY State www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/44804.html#Days

29-July 2 • Ellicottville Rodeo Ellicottville ellicottvillerodeo.com

Greendale Farm has been serving WNY with quality riding programs for over 30 Years! Enjoy guided trail rides through 100 acres of the beautiful Holland Hills. Currently scheduling summer adult trail rides. Reservations are required. Call today!

10379 Crump Rd., Holland, NY 14080 • 716-479-2020

See ad on page 26

Continued on page 28

BUFFALO

CORNHOLE CORNHOLE

Look Forward to

SUMMER July

As of our issue print date, the following events were scheduled for 2023. Be sure to check websites for the most current information and registration requirements.

1-3 • The Siege of Fort Niagara Youngstown oldfortniagara.org

1, 8, 22, 29 • Free Family Saturdays Artpark artpark.net

3 • Fireworks & Concert Olcott olcott-newfane.com

4 • Patriot’s Day Parade Olcott olcott-newfane.com

1-Aug. 13 (weekends only) • Sterling Renaissance Festival Sterling sterlingfestival.com

7-9 • Pirate Festival Olcott olcott-newfane.com

8-9 • Taste of Buffalo Buffalo tasteofbuffalo.com

11-14 • Old Home Days Williamsville oldhomedayswilliamsville.com

Continued on page 30

Indoor Recreation

Buffalo Turners Gymnastics – “Sound Mind, Sound Body.” Buffalo Turners, the oldest gymnastics club in Western New York, offers instruction for students, 3 to 18 years. Children develop confidence, strength and body awareness. But most of all, learning gymnastics is fun!

3200 Elmwood Avenue, Kenmore, NY 14217 • 716-877-2700

www.BuffaloTurnersGymnastics.com

Cornerstone Ice Arena

See ad on page 27

Everything’s better on ICE! If skating isn’t your thing - or you just want a change of pace – check out our Ice Bumper Cars! Rides are 10 minutes long during our public sessions or you can book a private party for up to 25 people with 12 cars. Pre-register at www.CornerstoneIceArena.com.

1 Grigg Lewis Way, Lockport, NY 14094 • 716-438-7698

www.CornerstoneIceArena.com

Gymnastics Unlimited

See ad on page 27

Flip into summer with us! Your child will be head over heels joining our classes, fun mini day camp, birthday parties, open workout or open tumbling!

70 Weiss Ave., West Seneca, NY, 14224 • 716-677-0338

www.gymnastics-unlimited.net

Urban Air Adventure Park

See ad on page 27

Urban Air is the ultimate indoor adventure park and a destination for family fun. Our park features attractions perfect for all ages and offers the perfect destination for unforgettable kids’ birthday parties, exciting special events and family fun.

Walden Galleria – 1 Galleria Dr., Buffalo, NY 14225 • 716-568-7083 www.UrbanAirBuffalo.com

See ad on page 22

Living History

Genesee

Country Village & Museum

Fun activities for all ages at New York’s largest living history museum! Less than 1 hour from Buffalo, Genesee Country Village & Museum has fun for the whole family as costumed historical interpreters bring to life in a living, working 19th-century village. Visit www.gcv.org to learn more and purchase tickets online.

1410 Flint Hill Rd., Mumford, NY 14511 • 585-538-6822

www.gcv.org

Old Fort Niagara

See ad on page 27

Old Fort Niagara offers exciting living history programs and authentic 18th century buildings and fortifications. The Fort presents daily history adventures and a full calendar of special events that are fun for the whole family. Connect with Niagara’s past as you walk in the footsteps of history.

102 Morrow Plaza, Youngstown, NY 14174 • 716-745-7611 www.oldfortniagara.org

See ad on page 29

SUMMER

As of our issue print date, the following events were scheduled for 2023. Be sure to check websites for the most current information and registration requirements.

July cont.

14-16 • Galbani Italian Heritage Festival Hertel Avenue, Buffalo buffaloitalianfestival.com

15 • Fairy House Festival Lewiston artpark.net

15 • BurgerFest Hamburg hamburgburgerfest.com

15 • Porter-on-theLake Summerfest Youngstown niagarariverregion.com

16 • 716 Day ($7.16 Admission) Buffalo buffalogardens.com

18-23 • Chautauqua County Fair Dunkirk chautauquacountyfair.org

20-23 • Christmas in July Weekend Olcott olcott-newfane.com

Museums

Buffalo AKG Art Museum

The Buffalo AKG Art Museum—formerly the Albright-Knox Art Gallery—is now open, and the museum can’t wait to welcome you. Visit www.buffaloakg.org to get your tickets in advance and plan your exciting new experience at the Buffalo AKG.

1285 Elmwood Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14222 • 716-882-8700

www.buffaloakg.org

Buffalo Museum of Science

See ad on page 31

Visit Seymour mastodon, feel hurricane-force winds, build and test race cars, get up close to hundreds of insects, make interstellar discoveries, hone your senses through exploration in SensERIE, and so much more! Reinventing Reality traveling exhibit open through June 18.

1020 Humboldt Parkway, Buffalo, NY 14211 • 716-896-5200

www.sciencebuff.org

Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum

See ad on page 31

Family-friendly museum with exhibits, carrousel rides, and kiddie rides. Children’s Gallery activities, special events, and party room. Museum housed in the historic Allan Herschell Company factory building. Once around is never enough!

180 Thompson Street, N. Tonawanda, NY 14120 • 716-693-1885

www.carrouselmuseum.org

National Comedy Center

See ad on page 27

Named the “Best New Museum” in the country by USA Today, the National Comedy Center provides a fun & laugh-filled interactive experience for the entire family. Their LaughSafe program keeps the experience safe, touch-free & worry-free. Less than 90 minutes from Buffalo.

203 West Second St., Jamestown, NY 14701 • 716-484-2222

www.comedycenter.org

Nature & Outdoors

Adventure Calls Outfitters, Inc.

See ad on page 37

Come experience Letchworth State Park as only we can show you - from the bottom up! Paddle class I/II ra pids on our guided trips. Perfect for families with younger children and novice paddlers.

P.O. Box 391, LeRoy, NY 14482 • 888-270-2410

www.adventure-calls.com

Parks

New York State Parks

See ad on page 23

From swimming to golfing to camping to the wonder of Niagara Falls, experience your local state parks this summer! Visit www.parks.ny.gov to find your next adventure.

250 throughout New York State www.nysparks.com

See ad on page 37

Continued on page 32

Whether at home or in the car on a road trip, “Would You Rather?” questions can strike up some fun conversations .

Here are some QUESTIONS you can ask your child!

Would you rather eat pizza or ice cream as your only meal for the rest of your life?

Would you rather visit the National Parks or visit amusement parks?

Would you rather ride in a hot air balloon or a helicopter?

Would you rather live without a TV or without a computer?

Would you rather be able to fly like a bird or swim like a fish?

Be Sure to Tell Our Advertisers

You Saw Them in the WNY Family

Theatre & Entertainment

Niagara University Theatre

NU Theatre, the producing arm of the Dept. of Theatre & Fine Arts, has been proudly entertaining and educating audiences since 1964. Summer shows tour and perform on-campus.

P.O. Box 1913, Niagara University, NY 14109 • 716-286-8329 theatre.niagara.edu

As of our issue print date, the following events were scheduled for 2023. Be sure to check websites for the most current information and registration requirements.

2-5

2-6

2-6

3-6

SUMMER FUN

As of our issue print date, the following events were scheduled for 2023. Be sure to check websites for the most current information and registration requirements.

August cont.

Animal Adventures

What kid doesn’t have a favorite animal? Choose “Animal Adventures” as your family’s summer theme and make time to explore the places animals of all kinds call home, both near and far, large and small. Not only will the kids learn a thing or two, but so will the grownups!

BUFFALO ZOO

300 Parkside Ave. Buffalo, NY 14214

(716) 837-3900

buffalozoo.org

You may not realize it, but the Buffalo Zoo is the nation’s 3rd oldest zoo, tracing its earliest history back to 1870 when a pair of deer presented by a prominent citizen was housed on a small plot of land in Delaware Park. When’s the last time you were a tourist in your own town and visited the Zoo? Exhibits completed in recent years include Otter Creek, which features a waterfall, stream, and shallow pool allowing children to be eye-to-eye with river otters; Sea Lion Cove, with its 160,000 gallon salt water pool, where tiered seating for humans accommodates daily feeding demonstrations with these charismatic marine mammals; and Rainforest Falls, a two-story atrium with layers of rockwork, lush vegetation, and a dramatic waterfall cascading 25 feet to the ground, that houses anteaters, ocelots, capybara, dwarf caiman and dozens of colorful birds and several species of monkeys. Braver visitors can enter a cave inhabited by vampire bats, piranha, and anaconda snakes! Open 362 days a year, 10am-4pm.

ROSS PARK ZOO

60 Morgan Road

Binghamton, NY 13903 (607) 724-5461

rossparkzoo.org

An official Path Through History Site! Ross Park Zoo officially opened in 1875, and is currently the fifth oldest zoo in the country. A historical, family attraction, this

continued on page 34

3-6 • Eden Corn Festival Eden edencornfest.com

3-31 Thursdays ONLY • Kids Free Days Mumford gcv.org

9-20 • Erie County Fair Hamburg ecfair.org

12-13 • Lewiston Art Festival Lewiston artcouncil.org

13 • Law Enforcement Day Olcott Beach olcott-newfane.com

19-20 • Fiddlers’ Fair & Making Music Weekend Mumford gcv.org

19-20 • Living History Weekend Youngstown oldfortniagara.org

20 • Olcott Beach Carousel Park’s 21st Anniversary Olcott Beach olcott-newfane.com

Continued on page 35

quaint facility is home to more than 100 different species of animals, including African penguins, red pandas, wallabies, and Amur tigers. Seasonal: April through November.

SENECA PARK ZOO

2222 St. Paul Street

Rochester, NY 14621 (585) 336-7200

senecaparkzoo.org

Animals from all over the world are represented at the Seneca Park Zoo. In 2018, the Zoo opened a 5-acre expansion of Animals of the Savanna and new Cold Asia habitats, dramatically upgrading animal habitats and introducing new species. Also added was the Trailside Café, offering visitors a new contemporary food service amenity with indoor seating. Next on their list for growth is the 1.5 million-cubic-foot Tropics Complex, which will be the only one of its kind in North America. Slated to open in 2025, it will boast new and unique play features, vantage points at multiple elevations, and an indoor rainforest will draw year-round visitors. We particularly liked this zoo’s many shaded areas which make for a more pleasant visit on hot summer days.

ROSAMOND GIFFORD ZOO AT BURNET

PARK

1 Conservation Pl. Syracuse, NY 13204 (315) 435-8511

rosamondgiffordzoo.org

Located in the heart of Central New York, the accredited Rosamond Gifford Zoo at Burnet Park is home to more than 700 animals and is a special place where species, many of them endangered, are nurtured and celebrated. Right now, they have baby elephant twins, born in October of 2022! Elephants have a 22-month gestation period, and elephant twins make up only 1% of all elephant births. Among others, the zoo’s animal collection includes Asian elephants, Amur tigers, snow leopards, Humboldt penguins, a variety of primates, many species of tropical birds and fish, and the only giant Pacific octopus in upstate New York! Indoor and outdoor exhibits, an amazing gift shop, Jungle Café, a variety of special events, education programs for all ages, as well as animal demonstrations and encounters guarantee an entertaining, educational and memorable visit for all. Open Daily 10am-4:30pm, 362 days a year.

TORONTO ZOO

2000 Meadowvale Rd Toronto, ON M1B 5K7, Canada (416) 392-5900

torontozoo.com

The Toronto Zoo has over 3,000 animals representing over 300 species and 10 kilometers (about 6.2 miles) of walking trails. The Zoo is divided into seven zoogeographic regions — Americas, Tundra Trek, Australasia, Eurasia Wilds, Africa, IndoMalaya, and Canadian Domain, plus a Kids Zoo and a Discovery Zone. Encompassing 710

acres, it’s a place to spend your entire day — and be sure to wear comfortable shoes. Strollers are a must — bring your own; rentals (including double strollers, wagons, and “safari cars”) are available for a fee, dependent upon availability. What amazed us the most on our visit was the “cageless” housing of elephants and lions in natural, open habitats. This. HUGE zoo is definitely worth the trip! Open year round; summer hours are 9:30am-7pm.

HIDDEN VALLEY ANIMAL ADVENTURE

2887 Royce Rd.

Varysburg, NY 14167 (585) 535-4100

hiddenvalleyadventure.com

Hidden Valley Animal Adventure is the creation of the late Hans Boxler, a successful Wyoming County dairy farmer. Hans grew up with a love for animals. In 2002, he bought some bison and elk, and then eventually a camel. People were curious and stopped to ask about the unusual animals. This is how the vision of Hidden Valley was born — a place where Hans could share his passion for animals and this picturesque valley with the public (not to mention to help cover the cost of feed). Park guests enjoy a Wild Game Safari drive-thru experience, taking their own personal vehicles over 2.3 miles of trails on 63 acres of land. Guests can choose to purchase grain to feed and get up close and personal with some 300 animals. Guests may also visit the “Small Animal Adventure” where they walk among the smaller, friendly animals. Altogether, Hidden Valley is home to over 400 animals representing 40 species from around the world. Open seasonally.

WICKHAM FARMS

1315 Sweets Corners Rd. Penfield, NY 14526 (585) 377-3276

wickhamfarms.com

Spend your day at Wickham Farms, offering farm fresh fun for families — a working farm hosting Rochester’s Lavender Festival (July), Sunflower Spectacular Festival (August), Honeycrisp Apple

As of our issue print date, the following events were scheduled for 2023. Be sure to check

23-Sept. 4 • New York State Fair Syracuse nysfair.ny.gov

26 • Urban Farm Day Tours Buffalo urbanfarmday.com

27 • Nels Ross Comedy Variety Show Olcott Beach Carrousel Park olcott-newfane.com

Continued on page 39

ANIMAL ADVENTURES continued...

Festival (September), and Fall Festival (October).

Visit in the summer to enjoy outdoor activities. Between a jumping pillow, giant corn box, duck races, and 18-hole miniature golf course, they have an activity to please every age and interest. Kids can take a ride on the kiddie train and feed the farm animals. Enjoy an aromatic stroll in a Lavender field the size of a football field! As summer ends and fall begins, take a trip to the farm for the Sunflower Spectacular and to pick apples in their beautiful orchard.

Fall at the farm is the time for hayrides, wandering through two corn mazes, and trying out apple cannons. Pick the perfect pumpkin in the pumpkin patch. Mums and corn stalks are available to help you decorate your home.

No visit to the farm is complete without stopping by the main barn to check out the lunch menu, ice cream, cookies, and in the fall, delicious donuts and cider.

NETTLE MEADOW FARM & ARTISAN CHEESE

484 South Johnsburg Rd.

Thurman, NY 12810

(518) 623-3372

nettlemeadow.com

Nettle Meadow Farm is a 50-acre goat and sheep farm and cheese company, as well as home to over 300 goats, several dozen sheep, and a variety of farm sanctuary animals. They make several varieties of soft goat cheeses. Simply Sheep, is made from all sheep’s milk. Visitors with a love of animals and cheese are welcome! Their Kemp Animal Sanctuary is a 501(c)3 tax exempt organization and is currently home to well over 150 sanctuary animals. These creatures are a combination of older or differently-abled sheep and goats from Nettle Meadow’s production herd and farm animals such as llamas, horses, donkeys, chicken, ducks, turkeys, pigs, cats, bunnies, peacocks, and more!

THISTLE CREEK

ALPACA FARM

1091 Ostrander Rd.

East Aurora, NY 14052

(716) 725-8238

Thistlecreekalpacas.com

facebook.com/ThistleCreekAlpacas

This small family-owned farm offers one-hour farm tours, by appointment only, for $10 per person. They will introduce you to the alpacas, provide a brief history, and fun facts. They allow questions and pictures. Finish up with a tour of their alpaca fiber store. You can also view their other animals, chickens, peacocks, and pigs. Check out their Facebook page to learn much more about them.

LAMB FARMS, INC.

6880 Albion Rd. Oakfield, NY 14125 (585) 948-5777

lambfarmsinc.net

Lamb Farms does not own a single lamb! It is a combination of two dairy farms and a calf facility located primarily in the town of Oakfield and a heifer facility in the town of Alabama. Tours are open to the public, but arrangements must be made in advance. There is a

form on their website for tour requests, which they require no less than 5 days in advance. Gather some friends and their kids and head out for a wonderful, educational experience where you can watch cows being milked, walk through the barns and pet a calf. Learn exactly where your food comes from!

OLD MCDONALD’S FARM VILLAGE

14471 County Rte. 145 Sackets Harbor, NY 13685 (315) 583-5737

oldmcdonaldhasafarm.com

Combining fantasy with reality, Old McDonald’s Farm has been hosting families and school children since 1986! Visit more than 1,000 animals from cows and camels to reindeer! Themed hayrides, pony rides, mini golf, gift shop, and cafe including ice cream all await. Tour the modern dairy and experience what goes on to produce milk. Spend the day on the farm in Sackets Harbor. If you like animals, you will love Old McDonald’s Farm! Open May until Halloween.

Lamb Farms, Inc.

Thistle Creek Alpaca Farm

Erie Canal Communities Celebrate with Free Summer Events!

— by Deborah Williams

“I’ve got a mule and her name is Sal Fifteen miles on the Erie Canal She’s a good old worker and good old pal Fifteen miles on the Erie Canal

We haul’d some barges in our day Filled with lumber, coal and hay We know every inch of the way From Albany to Buffalo”

There is an air of excitement and energy along the Erie Canal “from Albany to Buffalo” this season as some canal communities celebrate their bicentennials with new attractions and activities. The entire canal system is preparing for the grand 2025 bicentennial of the state’s and arguably the nation’s most remarkable waterway.

The New York State Canal Corp. and New York Power Authority have partnered with local providers to offer FREE excursions across the canal corridor. The On the Canals programs are scheduled throughout the summer and early fall.

Always wanted to kayak on the local waters but don’t have a kayak or any

experience? Take a guided kayak tour of the Buffalo River upstream towards Tift Nature Preserve or downstream to Canalside. Or try a kayaking adventure from North Tonawanda along the Erie Canal —perfect for all skill levels or newcomers to kayaking.

Artists or would-be artists are invited to channel their inner Picasso at various locations along the canal in June for “en plein air” painting sessions. The term is a French name for painting “out of doors.” The sessions, led by artist Gail Talmadge, provide all necessary supplies including easels, stools, canvases, water, paints, and brushes, as well as helpful step-by-step instruction and guidance to complete an artistic masterpiece within the two-hour class. Various sessions are offered for different age groups.

There are also boat tours, bike tours, walking tours and bird walking tours — all offered as part of the On the Canals program. Some of the tours are handicapped accessible with special adaptive equipment.

The tow path that mules such as Sal once walked is now a 360-mile bike path. This year marks Parks & Trails 25th Bike Tour. The eight-day, 400-mile tour begins July 9 and ends July 16.

For those not ready for such an ambitious undertaking, sign up for the Canalway Challenge. Depending on levels of fitness there is a goal for everyone ranging from 1st Mile, 15-mile, 90-mile, 180-mile and 360 miles. These challenges can be achieved in a wheelchair, walking, biking, or paddling a canoe or kayak. The challenge can be achieved in one day or throughout the season.

A BIT OF CANAL HISTORY

While families are walking along the path at a leisurely pace, consider the job of the mule drivers. During the 19th century that demanding job was often held by boys and occasionally girls as young as eight years old. They walked 15 to 20 miles each day in all weather and often slept with the animals at the end of the day. Some worked alongside their families and other were orphaned immigrants whose parents did not survive the transatlantic journey. Low wages and rough working conditions marked the life of the mule driver.

Construction of the canal began at sunrise on July 4, 1817, in Rome — an appropriate name for the birthplace of a project that would turn New York into the Empire State.

Canal commissioner Samuel Young began the proceedings with this prediction: “By this great highway, unborn millions will… hold a useful and profitable intercourse with all the maritime nations of the earth.”

The cannons at the nearby arsenal boomed and Judge John Richardson, the

canal’s first signed contractor, drove his team of oxen forward, inaugurating the construction of the Erie Canal.

Eight long years later the cannons again sounded — this time in Buffalo to herald the official opening of the 363-mile-long canal. Gov. DeWitt Clinton, a strong advocate of the canal, and other dignitaries were on board the packet Seneca Chief, drawn by four gaily decorated gray horses. The date was Oct. 26, 1825, which proved to be a most momentous date in the history of Buffalo, New York, and the nation.

The moment the Seneca Chief pulled away from the docks, the cannon fire began in a “cannon telegraph,” an elaborately choreographed progression of gunfire. As each shot was fired, the next gun went off — all the way from Buffalo to the southern tip of New York Harbor and back again.

“America can never forget to acknowledge that they have built the longest canal in the world in the least time, with the least experience, for the least money, and to the greatest public benefit,” said Cadwallader D. Colden at one of the many ceremonies marking the canal’s completion. His grandfather had advanced the idea of inland water travel back in 1724.

While Clinton was surely the father of the original canal, Theodore Roosevelt can be called the father of today’s Erie Canal, the third version. As New York governor, his initiative and foresight led him to create the Committee on Canals, addressing the decline of the state’s canals and facilitating their rebirth. In 1903, the State Legislature authorized construction of the New York State Barge Canals and construction was completed in 1918.

In 2000, the New York State Canal System was named the 23rd National Heritage Corridor. Administered by the National Park Service, it includes 524 miles of navigable waterway and all the cities, towns, and villages along the canal system which includes the Erie Canal, the Oswego Canal, the Seneca and Cayuga Canal and the Champlain Canal.

Here is a sampling of celebrations and special projects in various canal towns:

BUFFALO

Look Forward to

SUMMER FUN

As befitting its standing as the terminus of the Erie Canal and the largest city on the canal, the Buffalo Maritime Center is constructing a grand bicentennial project in Buffalo at the very site where the original canal ended.

Everyone is invited to come down to Canalside and watch the construction of a replica of the famous Seneca Chief in the Longshed Building and hear stories about the boat and its construction. It is a traditionally built, full-sized reproduction of the boat that opened the canal.

For the past two years, visitors from across the country and the world have been stopping at the Longshed to watch volunteers under the direction of master boat builders painstakingly create the 73-foot, 20-ton wooden boat. It will be launched next May. Children leave with a souvenir block made from scraps from the boat wood.

Be sure to go upstairs for a prime view of the construction progress. There are also exhibits and videos about the canal’s history.

The area On the Canals program offers kayak tours just down the boardwalk from the Longshed. There are also Niagara River kayak tours offered by Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper.

LOCKPORT

Today’s canal still travels the route of the original canal right through the center of Lockport. The city has several bicentennial projects celebrating the seemingly insurmountable challenge of conquering nature by blasting through the massive ledge of solid rock known as the Niagara Escarpment.

Construction of the canal through the area was the most difficult of the entire canal and took two years of exploding and digging, and the building of two

continued on page 40

As of our issue print date, the following events were scheduled for 2023. Be sure to check websites for the most current information and registration requirements.

September

2-3 • National Buffalo Wing Festival Highmark Stadium buffalowing.com

2-3 • 1812: The Forgotten War Youngstown oldfortniagara.org

7-10 • Niagara County Peach Festival Lewiston niagarariverregion.com

16 • Enchanted Wild Fest West Falls Hawkcreek.org

23-24 • Wildlife Festival Lewiston nypa.gov/niagarapowervista

30-Oct.1 • Agricultural Fair Mumford gcv.org

sets of five locks so that two-way traffic would be served.

“We have reconstructed three of these locks with the goal of having the entire Flight of Five Locks rehabilitated by 2025 if we can raise the needed funds,” explained David Kinyon, chairman of the Lockport Locks Heritage District Corp. “We are continuing our popular demonstrations of the working of the restored locks on Saturdays.”

The demonstration includes a replica of an early 19th century boat named the Erie Traveler built by the Buffalo Maritime Center.

Next to the Flight of Five is another well-liked project that will be completed this year. It is the Lock Tenders Tribute Monument designed to recreate an iconic 1897 photograph of Lockport Lock Tenders seated on the stone stairway in the locks. The monument consists of life-sized bronze sculptures of the Lock Tenders. So far, eight statues have been installed and the remaining six will be installed in time for a dedication ceremony on September 16. It has already become a favorite photo site.

Filming will begin this summer for a documentary of the remarkable technological feat accomplished in Lockport 200 years ago. The film is titled “America’s Staircase” and will be completed and shown in 2025.

Lockport is one of three canal towns with a handicapped accessible kayak launch. It is a popular feature at Wide Waters Marina. The city has also been selected as one of three provisional Trail

Towns for 2023 by Parks & Trails New York and the Canal Corp.

Lockport boasts the only set of double locks on the canal and the best way to experience the canal and locks is to “lock through” aboard one of the boats operated by Lockport Locks & Erie Canal Cruises. Beyond learning more about the history of the canal in Lockport you can enjoy hearing canal songs including “I’ve got a mule….”

BROCKPORT

The village of Brockport, known as “Victorian Village on the Erie Canal,” is named after one of its founders, Heil Brockway. For two years, from 1823 to 1825, Brockport was the western terminus of the Erie Canal. Brockport was named the first Empire State Trail Town in 2022.

Brockway was heavily involved in canal trade and had a boatyard that at one time built more canal packet boats than any other in the world. He also operated a packet line from Rochester to Buffalo.

This year is Brockport’s bicentennial and the Low Bridge, High Water Festival on June 10 will celebrate both the opening of the canal season and the village’s bicentennial. The festival features water and land-based activities, musical performances, kayaking, and a bike rodeo. There will be a kayak flotilla and free kayaks for visitors to use with instructions for newcomers.

Every Thursday during July and August, there will be live concerts along the canal. On the Canals programs include kayak excursions, community bike rides and creative workshops on the

The Seneca Chief

Colonial Belle

canal. Brockport is also proud of its totally handicapped accessible kayak dock.

PITTSFORD

Pittsford is known as a bustling canal village with one of the earliest and best-preserved collections of 19th century structures in the region. The village was designated a National Historic Preserve America community. This canal community parallels the original Erie Canal and the depressions in the yards of homes along South Street marks the original canal.

Don’t miss a tour on the Sam Patch, designed as an old-fashioned canal packet boat. Long and narrow to accommodate the constricted demands of the early canal, packet boats were pulled by mules or horses, carried mostly passengers, and provided food and sleeping quarters. When Cher was in the neighborhood for a concert, she cruised on the Sam Patch.

FAIRPORT

Fairport, one of the crown jewels of the Erie Canal, is also home to the Colonial Belle, the largest tour boat on the Erie Canal. The town celebrated its bicentennial last summer with a grand party and flotilla of boats. It is most proud of its new pedestrian walkway filled with flowers and Adirondack chairs.

The town continues to be a trendsetter in offering accessible kayaking and biking. The accessible kayak dock is next door to the Erie Canal Boat Co., the canal leader in making it possible for more people to enjoy kayaking and biking. The company’s Adaptive Paddling and Cycling Center is committed to the advancement of the canal as a recreational asset for all.

On the Canals programs include painting workshops for adults and kids (ages 10-17). There also will be four guided boat and walking tours in July and August. The 30-minute walking tour is led by the town historian. The walk is followed by a threehour cruise aboard the Colonial Belle through Lock 32 in Pittsford and then back to Fairport.

SYRACUSE

Syracuse is not only the center of the Erie Canal but home to the Erie Canal Museum whose very building tells the canal’s history. It is housed in the 1850 Weighlock Building, which was used to weigh boats and cargo to assess tolls. On the National Register of Historic Places, it is the only remaining canal weighlock of its kind in the world and houses what is considered the country’s premier canal museum.

continued on page 42

Fairport Pedestrian Landing

Lockport Canal Pittsford, NY

Out of seven weighlocks on the canal it was busiest, in part because it sat at the juncture of two canals — the Erie and the Oswego — that met in downtown Syracuse. The building was always open and regularly weighed four boats an hour, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. One of the most popular museum exhibits is the full-size canal boat that people can go inside and see how people lived on canal.

The area’s On the Canals programs include tours of the Weighlock Building and Lock 24 in Baldwinsville. There will also be sketching workshops at the museum, Camillus Canal Park, and Chittenango Landing Canal Boat Museum.

“We are also doing a deeper dive into the canal history to tell the untold stories of the canal as part of our ongoing lecture series and we are continuing our walking tours to Clinton Square where the canals met,” explained Derrick Pratt,

Travel Tip of the Month:

For information on the canal visit: eriecanalway.org and canals. ny.gov. For information about On the Canals programs visit onthecanals.com. Advance registration is required for the free activities.

For Seneca Chief information visit buffalomaritimecenter.org.

For Lockport visit locksdistrict.com and lockportlocks.com for cruise information.

For Brockport visit brockportny.org.

For Pittsford visit townofpittsford.org.

For Fairport visit village.fairport.ny.us.

For Syracuse (Erie Canal Museum) visit eriecanalmuseum.org.

TROY

The Champlain Canal which connects to the Erie Canal in the east is celebrating its bicentennial this year. It was fully operational from Troy to Lake Champlain in 1823 and is considered the oldest continuously operating canal in the country. Waterford at the confluence of the Erie and Champlain canals is a good place to begin your exploration by stopping at the Waterford Harbor Visitor Center.

This is an area steeped in history where the most decisive battles of the American Revolution were fought in 1777. A highlight of the area is Saratoga National Historical Park, the site of the Battle of Saratoga, the turning point in the Revolutionary War after British General John Burgoyne surrendered to the colonists.

There are numerous places along the Canalway Trail that are accessible and several that offer adaptive bikes and kayaks. Visit eriecanalway. org/1st-Mile for details.

director of education for the museum.

Mule Driver Statue, Syracuse

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

Summer is definitely the ultimate time of year in Western New York to spend the majority of your free hours outdoors! Whether you enjoy your backyard swimming pool or town pool, your local park, playground or nature trail, bike riding or roller blading, we definitely have to make the most of our warm, sunny days. If you’re looking for a day trip or weekend getaway adventure with the kids, try one of these options!

CANALSIDE BUFFALO

44 Prime Street Buffalo, NY 14202 (716) 436-7100

buffalowaterfront.com/canalside

Of course, we start out close-to-home! Buffalo’s legacy as one of our nation’s most important transportation and industrial centers rose from our impressive waterfront. The result of over $300 million in new development, Canalside hosts over 1,000 annual events. Every summer, outdoor yoga, children’s games, and Thursday at Canalside concerts take place along the district’s Central Wharf. Children will love riding the Buffalo Heritage Carousel, originally built in North Tonawanda in 1924, now fully restored and housed in a gorgeous octagonal building designed by New Energy Works. A solar array roof, provided by Tesla, powers the carousel!

Across the street, LECOM Harborcenter attracts hockey players from around the world by hosting amateur and college tournaments at its two NHL-sized rinks. Sports and food fanatics are flocking to the two-story Southern Tier Brewing Company that features over 70 televisions, including a 38-foot-tall screen for the big games.

The waterfront is also home to America’s largest inland Naval Park, the Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park. The Erie Basin Marina features an observation tower with breathtaking views of Buffalo and Canada. The historic Buffalo Lighthouse welcomes you to the Buffalo River. And the nearby Outer Harbor features miles of bike trails and lakefront parks.

Rent a kayak or try out a waterbike. Adult and children’s paddle boats are also available. Just want to relax on the water? Take a cruise aboard the Queen City Ferry, the Spirit of Buffalo or Buffalo Harbor Cruises to see it all! You won’t have to go very far to be a tourist in your own town!

continued on page 44

PANAMA ROCKS SCENIC PARK

11 Rock Hill Rd.

Panama, NY 14767

(716) 782-2845

panamarocks.com

Panama Rocks was established in 1885, even before the state park system was created. Experience 15 acres of the Paleozoic ocean floor at the Panama Rocks Scenic Park. It’s a magical natural landscape of winding corridors between 60-foot-high rocks. Hike the trails around the rocks and navigate through the nooks, crevices, and caves. The park includes informational signs that explain the geology, as well as an educational treasure hunt for the kids, and picnic tables for lunch. We would recommend it for school-age kids and up or those who have babies or young toddlers in a carrier due to the steep drop-offs. This is NOT a place for little one to run free! Panama Rocks also offers an ax-throwing range for guests ages 11+. They are open daily from the first weekend of May through the last weekend of October, 10am to 5pm.

WHIRLPOOL JET BOAT TOURS

115 S Water Street

Lewiston, NY 14092

(888) 438-4444

whirlpooljet.com

Head up north a bit to experience “Niagara’s Ultimate Adventure” on a 45-60 minute jet boat tour through the Class V Devil’s Hole rapids of the Niagara River. Guests will enjoy awe-inspiring scenery and learn about the history of Niagara on a wet or dry tour. Specially designed 1,500 horsepower jet boats plunge directly into the rapids, scooping up hundreds of gallons of water and delighting guests! Great for ages 4 and up. The boarding location on the U.S. side is on Lewiston’s waterfront, down behind the Griffon Brewery and Gastropub.

SKY HIGH AERIAL ADVENTURE PARK

At Holiday Valley

6557 Holiday Valley Rd.

Route 219

Ellicottville, NY 14371

(716) 699-2345

holidayvalley.com

Holiday Valley isn’t just for skiing! In summer, near the Tannenbaum Lodge at the western end of Holiday Valley, Sky High offers an Aerial Park, a Climbing Forest, a Mountain Coaster and Gem Mining, plus chairlift rides and mountain biking! The largest in New York State and 3rd largest in the U.S., Sky High Aerial Park is a series of platforms, obstacles, bridges and ziplines built in a 5-acre section of the woods and the challenge is to navigate through all the platforms of a course.

Bridges may be a log, hanging chunks of wood, or other obstacles or ladders, and the challenge is to get across to the next platform. It is not all strength; it is more strategy and balance. There are 13 courses with varying levels of difficulty. Open daily June 17 – September 4, weather permitting. Check their website for open dates further into the fall.

The Sky Flyer Mountain Coaster is similar to a roller coaster but it’s built on a mountain. One or two riders sit in a “car” attached to rails that pulls you up the hill, then it follows a zig zagging spiraling path down the mountain. Riders are able to control their speed with brakes on the car. The driver must be at least 8 years old and 54” tall, and be able to demonstrate they understand the staff’s instructions to be a driver. Children must be at least 3 years old and over 38” (without shoes) to accompany a driver who is at least 16-years-old.

You can also pan for gems in an old-fashioned mining sluice at Mr. Happy Gem Mining. Targeted to children as young as 2, the experience mimics old-fashioned panning for gold. Each miner purchases a bag of sand that contains either gems or fossils. The contents of the bag are dumped into a frame with a screen on the bottom. Miners wash the sand away with water that runs through a 65-foot-long sluice and the treasures are left in the pan. An identification card is included for children to learn more about their gems or fossils.

If you have teen or adult mountain bikers, you can load your mountain bike on the chair lift to Spruce Lake to ride the trails at the top of the mountain! Or, if something a bit more tame is your choice, just ride the chair lift to the top, explore the lake, and walk the trail down. Available Saturdays and Sundays from June 17 through October 29, 11am to 5pm.

continued on page 46

Sky High Aerial Adventure Park, Mountain Coaster

GLIMMERGLASS STATE PARK

1527 County Highway 31

Cooperstown, NY 13326

(607) 547-8662

parks.ny.gov/parks/glimmerglass/amenities.aspx

Glimmerglass State Park overlooks beautiful Otsego Lake, nicknamed “Glimmerglass” by James Fenimore Cooper in his Leatherstocking Tales. Open year-round, each season brings a multitude of outdoor recreational activities for visitors to the park. Campsites, cabins and lodging invite you to enjoy biking, fishing, hiking, playgrounds, and an accessible swimming beach in summer. During your visit, take time to tour Hyde Hall, a beautiful, historic 50-room country house (see hydehall.org).

If you have baseball fans in the family, be sure to make time to check out the National Baseball Hall of Fame while you’re in Cooperstown (baseballhall.org).

THE PRESERVE AT ANIMAL ADVENTURE

42 Pease Rd. Harpursville, NY 13787 (607) 760-4429

theanimaladventurepreserve.com

The Preserve at Animal Adventure is an interactive, educational drive thru adventure, hosted on over 100 acres in beautiful upstate New York. Owner Jordan Patch has opened the gates to his once private preserve, sister facility to Animal Adventure Park, to share a new adventure with you! Home to 100s of animals, your self-driven adventure will take you through grassland, scrub brush, and deep forests as you explore and experience geographically designated paddocks: Aussie Eurasia, The Americas, Africa & Giants of Africa. This interactive experience will allow guests to offer their fortified diets to the animals that call the preserve home.

Being a “free choice” space, the animal inhabitants can choose if they wish to engage guests in their vehicles. You are joining them, in their environment! No two visits are ever the same. Bring your camera for breathtaking views and amazing animal encounters.

Inexpensive Backyard Fun: 36 Ways to Spend The Sunny Days of Summer

— by Christina Katz

Short on funds this summer? A lack of cash does not have to mean a shortage of summer fun!

Outdoor ecstasy for your cooped up kids is as close at hand as your backyard. Even when these fun ideas are not completely free, they are still pretty darn cheap.

So, open up the back door and let the kids out while you let the summer fun in. These activities are fun for kids of all ages, grown up kids included.

If you’re not sure of the “how-to” of any items on the list — that’s what Google is for! Encourage your older kids to help with the search for directions.

1. Build a worm box.

2. Play “Kick the Can.”

3. Stage a backyard puppet show or play.

4. Use a wagon as a mobile sandbox.

5. Experiment with original sun tea combinations.

6. Be a backyard geologist.

7. Arrange a stuffed animal parade.

8. Chase moths, butterflies.

9. Host a neighborhood “Trashion Show” — dress up using trash or other reclaimed items to design a new outfit. This project will help kids to learn the value of items after their initial purpose to reduce waste in a fun way!

10. Drape together a napping tent.

11. Paint large stones bright colors for the walkway.

12. Host a neighborhood water balloon fight.

13. Construct a ladybug house.

14. Wash the car (or the dog).

15. Come up with alternatives to the lemonade stand.

16. Create an over-sized map for an outdoor treasure hunt.

17. String together a giant bubble wand.

18. Pretend to be a professional outdoor photographer. You might be surprised with the results!

19. Fill a wading pool with mud instead. Hosing everyone off later will bring lots of giggles!

20. Set up the sprinkler or slipperyslide.

21. Arrange a fairy garden.

22. Use sidewalk chalk somewhere besides the sidewalk.

23. Construct a city out of recycled items.

24. Grow some plants from seed.

25. Erect and attempt an obstacle course.

26. Break out the bathing suits and body paints.

27. Shape a bug maze with tiny rocks.

28. Draw or paint what you see in “En Plein Air.”

29. Fill and bury a time capsule.

30. Cut and arrange flowers.

31. Squirt empty cans off of a ladder.

32. Prepare a sunset picnic.

33. Put fresh batteries in the walkietalkies.

34. Chase fireflies with recycled jars.

35. Play past-your-bedtime flashlight tag.

36. Camp out in the yard overnight.

Fun Yard Games to Keep On-Hand

Croquet

Wiffle Ball bats and balls

Frisbees

Summer Splurges to Try At Least Once

• See an evening play outdoors

• Spend the day at a theme park

• Take a weekend road trip

• Attend a state fair

• Patronize a drive-in movie theater

• Find the nearest rodeo

• Do your shopping at a Farmer’s Market

Nerf footballs

Badminton

Soccer ball with cones

Author, journalist, and writing coach

Christina Katz loves to enjoy time outdoors in the yard with her family and pets all summer long.

Mom Inspired YouTube ChalLenges

— by Cheryl Maguire

In an attempt to break the deafening teen silence during breakfast, I began a conservation.

“So I saw a meme . . .”

Laughter erupted from my twin teens.

“It’s pronounced MEEEM, not MEH-MM. You sound like Elle’s mom who said MeeMee,” my teen daughter corrected me.

Just for the record — I’m not alone. There is an entire article written about how to pronounce meme at https://www. wikihow.com/Pronounce-Meme.

I didn’t let the laughter or mispronunciation deter me. If I did, I would never communicate with my twin teenagers.

“Anyway, as I was saying, I saw a MEME that said, ‘If some YouTube star could create a ‘Clean Your Room Challenge’ or even a ‘Put Your Clothes in the Hamper Challenge’ that would be awesome.’ I thought that might interest either one of you.”

“Um, where did you see that one? Facebook?” she retorted with a snickering implication (since I’ve heard it before) that Facebook is for “old people” and “irrelevant.”

Again, I didn’t let a little snicker or insinuation deter me.

“As a matter of fact, I did see it on Facebook and I think it sounds like a great idea. Maybe next time you are bored you can start shooting some scenes.”

And then I got the obligatory eyeroll followed by a “Yeah, whatever mom.”

My twin teens may not be up for the challenge, so I’m going to put the call out to the rest of the entrepreneurial teens out there. I’ll even expand on the meme and provide you with some detailed suggested shots, along with another possible challenge. Here goes:

CLEAN YOUR ROOM MILITARY STYLE CHALLENGE

Actor required: Military Drill Sergeant

Opening Scene: I suggest a “before” scene of a messy room. I might be able to persuade my daughter to provide a sample since her room would be perfect, with clothes on the floor, drawers left open, and since she is an artist there is plenty of paint splatter, and of course, an unmade bed.

Challenge: To clean your room in order to pass inspection by a military drill sergeant.

End Scene: Again, I would be willing to offer up my daughter as a participant. Here you would show the teen transforming the messy room into a spotless oasis. Then you could pan to the military drill sergeant completing an inspection. It would end with a quarter being bounced off the bed to test the tightness of the sheets and me (or another mom) smiling the biggest smile you have ever seen.

PUT YOUR CLOTHES IN THE HAMPER CHALLENGE

Actor required: Physical Trainer — I would recommend Sean T from the Insanity workouts — he really knows how to whip people into shape.

Opening Scene: Again, feel free to use my house. You can take your pick of bedrooms, bathrooms, or the entry hallway. I guarantee you will find a mountain of clothes strewn on the floor.

Challenge: To place all clothes in the laundry hamper in under five seconds without allowing it to touch the floor.

Training: Since this is a tough one and requires some strength training, I would then pan to Sean T with a full workout plan in place including squats, lunges, along with some arm extensions.

End Scene: Sean T would have his

stopwatch set while the participant (my daughter would be perfect for this — I’m just throwing it out there) completes a set of challenging obstacle courses involving different size hampers and a variety of clothes such as T-shirts, shorts, pants, underwear, and socks.

CLOSE THE DRAWER, DOOR & TURN OFF THE LIGHTS CHALLENGE

NOTE: This challenge also includes the refrigerator door!

Actor Required: A Karate Instructor similar to Mr. Miyagi from the movie “The Karate Kid.”

Challenge: After opening a drawer, or door, or turning on the lights, the teen would need to close the drawer/door (or turn off) before leaving the room.

Training: This seems to require a lot of practice and effort to complete so I would recommend a training session similar to the “Wax On-Wax Off” scene in the movie “The Karate Kid”, except it, would involve “Turn On-Turn Off” or “Open-Close” training.

End Scene: The participant (just putting it out there — my daughter’s schedule is wide open which I can attest to by the number of times I’ve heard her say, “I’m bored”) would be timed by the karate instructor on how fast they can open and close a drawer/door or turn on and off a light.

This should be enough to get the ball rolling. I have plenty of other ideas we can discuss in more detail like “Eat Your Vegetable Challenge,” “Cook Your Own Meal Challenge,” or “Do Your Own Laundry Challenge,” but I don’t want to overwhelm you with ideas. After you put out a few videos, we can talk some more.

Now if you will excuse me, I have to go pick up some clothes from the floor.

Cheryl Maguire holds a Master of Counseling Psychology degree. She is married and is the mother of twins and a daughter. Her writing has been published in The New York Times, National Geographic, Washington Post, Parents Magazine, AARP, Healthline, Your Teen Magazine, and many other publications.

— by Dr. Donna Phillips

June is the month of doing! There is so much going on! We are busy outdoors planting gardens, mowing lawns, washing cars and sidewalks, building and fixing, playing sports, biking, hiking… the list goes on and on. June is also the month of Dads! Dads are often viewed as “doers” and children love to “do” with them! What better way to celebrate fathers than with books that invite children and dads to do things together! Here are some new titles to consider.

One of the most important things a father can do for a child is to spend time reading to and with them. Experience shows that children who are mentored and nurtured through books with their father do better in school and in life. This is the First Book I Will Read to You (Viking, New York, 2023, $18.99), written by Francesco Sedita and sensitively illustrated by Magenta Fox, is the perfect book for a first-time father! It is a gentle howto book about reading to a child for the first time. After the bedtime ritual, Dad must decide what and where to read. He carries on

a conversation (language is essential for child development) with his new baby as they walk the house. He imagines all of the places he can read in the future and all of the things he will say, and all the things they can do as they grow together and bond. This is a must for all new fathers and even experienced ones. It is never too late to begin to read to your child.

A Bed of Stars (Candlewick Press, Somerville, 2023, $18.99), written and illustrated by Jessica Love, is an adventure story about a father and his young son who go camping in the desert to learn about what can be found there and “to shake hands with the universe.” They explore flowers, animal tracks, and sand dunes. They see the sun set as they build a fire, and sleep under the stars. They see the sunrise and greet the birds, and bugs, and animals that live there. The weekend is filled with wonder and excitement as they explore and learn together and the memories that are created will last forever, as they connect to each other, the magic of the world around them, and the

universe. This would be a great adventure in the woods, by the beach, in the mountains, or even in your own backyard… anywhere you want to go! This book might help you plan your next adventure.

If you decide to go on an adventure, you might want to bring From Here to There: A First Book of Maps (Candlewick Press, Somerville, 2023, $18.99), written by Vivian French and illustrated by Ya-Ling Huang. Anna wants to make a map of how to get to her friend’s house and dad has offered to help her. Together they explore the route and record details. He shows her different kinds of maps and even shares a “map” of their family tree. Together they create a map of her trip, complete with roads, buildings, and

signs, and Anna adds illustrations to go with it! This story idea would be perfect for your next adventure as a recap of a trip and might even include illustrations and photos of the things that you saw and did together.

What is an adventure without weather? If you are looking for a book to learn more about the many aspects of the weather, My First Guide to Weather (Big Picture Press, Somerville, 2023, $19.99), written by Camilla de la Bedoyere and colorfully illustrated by Cinyee Chiu, provides details and illustrations that make it easy to understand and intriguing. Explore What is Weather?, Changing Weather, World Weather, and Extreme Weather. Learn the vocabulary of the science of meteorology as you investigate the details on each page and even go on a hunt to find a peregrine falcon that is hidden in almost every scene. This is a book that will be apcontinued on page 52

– by Peggy Gisler and Marge Eberts

Are Textbooks Becoming Obsolete?

Question: During the Pandemic, my children’s classes were on the computer. This year they have been back in school and are still spending a lot of their time on the computer. In fact, they do not even have textbooks for all of their classes. Are textbooks becoming obsolete? What are advantages and disadvantages of so much online learning?

— Questioning

The Pros and Cons of Yearround Schooling

Question: As our school district switches to yearround schooling next year, I wonder what the advantages of doing this are, as well as the disadvantages. I hate seeing the kids’ long summer vacation vanish. Just how widespread is year-round schooling in the United States? — Unhappy

Answer: With all the talk, parents are likely to think that year-round schooling is becoming the norm everywhere. This simply isn’t true. Only about 10 percent of all public schools have year-round schooling. The most common schedule is 45 days of schooling followed by a 15-day break. The usual holidays are built into the schedule, and the summer break is 30 days. The next most common schedule is 60 days of school followed by a 20-day break with a 4-week summer break. And some schools have a 90 – 30 schedule with a 35-day summer recess.

The typical length of the school year remains 180 days. It is usually the same with most year-round schedules although some school districts may add as many as 20 extra days.

Some year-round schools operate on a multi-track system in which students are assigned to one of four or five tracks. At any one time, one of the tracks is not attending school — thus expanding the capacity of the school. This works smoothly in elementary school but makes it more difficult to schedule high school courses.

The number one plus to year-round school, according to advocates, is that it reduces summer learning loss. Shorter breaks can help students retain material that they learned during the school year. A significant advantage at some schools is that an enrichment session may be offered between regular sessions that gives excelling students a chance to explore new areas of interest. And at some schools, remediation is offered during the intersession which can help struggling children build basic skills and reduce their chance of failing. Intersession programs may last all day, with morning classes and extracurricular activities in the afternoon, or just half a day. Another advantage to year-round schooling is that it reduces burnout for both students and teachers.

Year-round schooling does have some disadvantages. For parents, it complicates finding child care and making family vacation plans. For teachers, it limits their time to attend summer school or to get jobs to increase their income. It also makes it more difficult to improve school facilities and costs districts more to operate. Furthermore, it does not give students the opportunity to participate in lengthy summer recreation activities.

Loads of studies have been trying to determine if year-round schools really have advantages. The results are quite mixed. Overall, the results may be positive — but not significantly so. In addition, the challenge of switching to a year-round school is made more difficult by the need to convince both teachers and parents of the benefits of the plan.

Answer: There is decidedly a rush for children to go online to learn. Teachers who are technologically savvy are all for this. They point out the computer is a tool that students need to learn to use in this digital age and want them on the computer from their first days in kindergarten.

No less a computer guru than Bill Gates has predicted that textbooks will become obsolete as software is changing how students learn. This certainly appears to be the trend with high school and middle school students no longer using textbooks in many of their classes. While K-3 students are now on computers, textbooks are typically the way they are still learning to read.

Those educators who are on the computer bandwagon list the following advantages of online learning over traditional textbooks:

• Virtual learning offers students the opportunity to go beyond the classroom walls from field trips to seeing government in action.

• Online learning devices are lighter for students to carry around in their backpacks than textbooks.

• Students find it easier to stay organized as all papers, notebooks, and folders are in one place.

• Online learning is up to date while textbooks are frequently outdated.

• It is environmentally friendly with far less consumption of paper.

• Teachers can immediately see if students have mastered a concept.

Helping all parents make their children’s educational experience as successful as possible

these FUN DAYS during

June 1st

International Children’s Day

June 4th

Hug Your Cat Day

June 7th

Chocolate Ice

June

preciated on both sunny and rainy days. Adventure on!!

There is nothing like the excitement of June. School is out, the weather is inviting, and summer adventures await! These books are sure to inspire and entice Dad into planning your summer field trips and travels.

Happy Father’s Day and happy dad adventures!

• Students can highlight and take notes without ruining textbooks.

• Learning can be personalized for individual students’ needs so everyone completes assignments.

• Learning disabled students have additional aids like text reading.

• Online learning can be more fun. Not all educators are enthusiastic about replacing textbooks with electronic devices for these reasons:

• Eliminating textbooks would change how teachers teach.

• Teachers would need to learn how to achieve the maximum learning benefits for individual students from electronic learning.

• Students can be distracted by games and by social media.

• Some subjects (math and English) do not change and do not need to be updated.

• Schools will need to provide electronic devices and internet connectivity to all families.

• Too much screen time can induce learning fatigue and boredom.

Dr. Donna Phillips is an associate professor in the College of Education at Niagara University where her specialty is literacy and children’s literature. She lives on Grand Island, NY and is the mother of two adult children and the grandmother of one.

Parents should send questions and comments to dearteacher@dearteacher.com, and visit the dearteacher.com website to learn more about helping their children succeed in school.

Parents, These Are the Pictures You Should Take at High School Graduation

— by Katy M. Clark

One of the best parts of my son’s high school graduation was unexpected.

It wasn’t the processional, with hundreds of young people looking dapper in their caps and gowns marching onto the football field.

It certainly wasn’t the speeches — although, thankfully, the ones at my son’s graduation were short and generated a few good laughs.

It wasn’t the fact that I teared up. (No surprise there.)

The unexpected part of my senior’s high school graduation that I came to love was what I called the “after party” — the time after the ceremony, when my son moved from friend group to friend group, hugging, shaking hands, and snapping pictures.

He hugged his best friends since kindergarten, then posed with new classmates he met as a high school senior. He shook hands with teammates from all the sports he’d played over the years. Then he caught up with the gang he’d known since preschool. It was amazing to see him mark this moment with so many kids from so many different activities and parts of his life.

And it made me think.

Parents, we should take pictures with each other at high school graduation. Wouldn’t it be awesome to congratulate, honor, and recognize all the

parents who walked alongside us and our high school graduates to this day?

I’d start with the parents I met at daycare, the ones I saw at drop off or pick up when our kids were so little. They were some of the first friends I made as a new parent. We made strides together in our early attempts to balance work and parent life.

Next, I’d want pictures with the playgroup moms who welcomed me and my messy, loud, crying tot into their homes on a rotating basis. And the summertime moms, with whom I visited the beach or pool or did anything to get the kids out of the house for a few hours. These moms made me feel less alone and sprinkled my days with the sunshine of adult companionship.

Then there were the birthday party parents. We spent dozens of weekends with each other at miniature golf, laser tag, or bounce house venues, and we weathered the noise and mirth of crowded venues like Chuck E. Cheese on Saturday afternoons for what seemed like five years in a row.

I’d want pictures with the room volunteer parents. Together we manned craft tables at holiday celebrations, helped small groups with reading or spelling, and ran activities in the hot sun on Field Day.

A big shout out to the parents who chaperoned field trips. They know how

hard it is to keep a group of youngsters from wandering off on your watch! I’d snap a picture of that mom who partnered with me on a middle school overnight trip. Without her, I don’t know how I would have endured a rowdy group singing the Spongebob Squarepants theme song over and over, for the umpteenth time.

I’d want pictures of the church parents who greeted my family every Sunday, prayed for my child, taught his youth group and Sunday school classes, and walked alongside my child in his faith journey from tot to teen.

Also, I’d pose for pictures with the sports team parents. They cheered for my kid as I cheered for theirs. They shivered with me in the rain by soccer fields and sometimes shared blankets in the hockey rink so our butts didn’t freeze.

Looking around the crowd after my son’s high school graduation, there were so many more parents I didn’t know and whose photos someone else might treasure. The parents who helped with scout troops, or debate, or the robotics teams. Parents who prepped for band competitions or theater performances. Parents who ran the parent-teacher organizations.

If I were to attend a high school graduation all over again, I’d snap pictures with all the people who had been part of our family’s journey to this momentous occasion. I’d hug and high five these other adults. After years of trying to coordinate our schedules to hang out, we were actually all at the same event. Our gathering was something to commemorate and celebrate.

Because we did it! We helped shepherd each other’s kids from toddlers into young adults. Together, we made raising our kids a little easier, less lonely, and a lot more fun.

Katy M. Clark is a writer and mom of two who embraces her imperfections on her blog “Experienced Bad Mom.” She is also an award-winning writer whose work has appeared on Scary Mommy, Today’s Parent, and Your Teen for Parents. Her articles have been published in Pregnancy, Washington Parent, and more. This article was originally published by Your Teen for Parents, the premier resource for parents of teenagers.

RAISING DIGITAL KIDS

— by Mike Daugherty

The Future of Broadcasting

As the world of esports continues to grow at an exponential rate, opportunities for careers within the industry are more abundant than ever. One such career that has gained significant popularity is shoutcasting, also known as esports commentating. If your child has expressed an interest in becoming a shoutcaster, you may be wondering how to support them in their journey. Let’s look at the skills and experiences your child can develop to excel in the exciting world of shoutcasting.

Know Your Games, Teams & Players

First and foremost, having a deep understanding of the games and the esports scene is essential for any aspiring shoutcaster. Yes, I am suggesting your child study video games. Encourage your child to explore various games and genres, focusing on the ones they enjoy the most. They should familiarize themselves with the professional esports scene, including major tournaments, teams, and players. Keeping up with industry news and engaging in online discussions will allow them to stay relevant with their audience.

Practice, Practice, Practice

Shoutcasters must be able to articulate their thoughts clearly and concisely, both in high-pressure situations and during downtime between games. Encourage your child to practice public speaking by participating in school events, debate clubs, or community theater. This will help them become more comfortable and confident in front of an audience. If those are not options, encourage them to practice being a radio DJ in their bedroom. The goal is to develop their public speaking skills through practice.

Learn from the Pros

One of the best ways for aspiring shoutcasters to learn the ropes is by studying the professionals. Encourage your child to watch popular shoutcasters and analyze their techniques, delivery, and style. They should take notes on what they like and dislike, and then practice incorporating these elements into their own shoutcasting.

Build Their Presence

In today’s digital age, building an online presence is essential for any aspiring shoutcaster. Encourage your child to create accounts on popular platforms such as Twitch, YouTube, and social media sites. They can start by shoutcasting their own gameplay or commentating on replays of professional matches. Creating consistent content will help them build an audience and showcase their skills to potential employers. There are opportunities for young adults to get paid for their commentary and analysis. This can involve working with teams or organizations to provide commentary for their games or events, or partnering with companies to create sponsored content. They may also be able to earn money through streaming platforms where viewers can subscribe to their channel or donate money to support their content.

Network

Networking is crucial for success in any field, and shoutcasting is no exception. Encourage your child to attend esports events, conventions, and tournaments to connect with industry profes-

sionals, other aspiring shoutcasters, and fans. Building a strong network will provide them with valuable connections and opportunities for growth.

CREATE A PODCAST

A career in shoutcasting shares many similarities with other forms of broadcasting, such as podcasting. In fact, starting a podcast can be an excellent way for aspiring shoutcasters to hone their communication skills, develop their unique style, and build an audience. If your child is interested in creating a podcast, the following steps will guide them through the process of launching and growing their show.

Choose a Topic

Selecting a topic or theme for the podcast is the first step in the creation process. Encourage your child to choose a subject they’re passionate about, as this will make it easier for them to produce engaging and informative content consistently. This could be a podcast about esports, gaming strategies, or interviews with players and industry professionals.

Plan It Out

Help your child decide on the format and structure of their podcast, such as the length of each episode, the style of the show (interview, solo commentary, panel discussion), and whether they’ll include segments, music, or sound effects. Planning the format will give their podcast a cohesive and professional feel.

Gear Up

To record a podcast or be a shoutcaster, your child will need some basic equipment, such as a computer, a microphone, and headphones. Additionally, they’ll need recording and editing software, such as Audacity, GarageBand, or Adobe Audition. These tools will allow them to record, edit, and export their podcast episodes.

Audio Editing

High audio quality is crucial for successful casters. Encourage your child to learn the basics of audio editing, including how to adjust volume levels, remove background noise, and add music or sound effects. There are many online tutorials and resources available to help them master these skills.

Schedule and Branding

Creating a consistent schedule and branding for the podcast is essential for building an audience. Help your child decide on a release schedule (weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly) and create eyecatching cover art and a memorable podcast name. Consistency in branding and schedule will make it easier for listeners to find and follow their podcast.

Record, Edit, and Publish

Once your child has planned their podcast and purchased the necessary equipment, they can begin recording episodes. Encourage them to rehearse and prepare beforehand, ensuring a smooth recording process. After recording,

they’ll need to edit the audio to remove any mistakes, add music, and create a polished final product. Your child will need to find a podcast hosting platform to upload and distribute their episodes. Popular options include Libsyn, Anchor, and Podbean. These platforms will generate an RSS feed for their podcast, which allows listeners to subscribe and receive new episodes automatically.

Promote and Engage

Once the podcast is live, help your child promote their show through social media, forums, and other online communities related to their podcast’s topic. They can also reach out to friends, family, and acquaintances to spread the word about their podcast. Networking with other podcasters and collaborating on episodes can also help grow their audience. Encourage your child to interact with their listeners through social media, email, or podcast reviews. Responding to feedback, answering questions, and engaging in discussions with the audience will help build a loyal fan base and provide valuable insights for future episodes. Much of this will be based on the age of your child and what you feel is appropriate.

The journey to becoming a successful shoutcaster requires dedication, passion, and a commitment to learning and growth. As a parent, supporting and nurturing your child’s interests in gaming, communication, and analysis will pave the way for their success in the exciting world of broadcasting.

Mike Daugherty is a husband, father of three young children, author, speaker, Google Innovator, and possible Starbucks addict. He is a certified educational technology leader who has served in a variety of roles through his twenty-year career in public education. Currently, Mike is the Director of Technology for the Chagrin Falls Exempted Village School district in Northeast Ohio. As an IT director he has developed creative, well thought out solutions that positively impact teaching and learning.

It will be four years this August that I have been divorced. So I feel like I have a pretty good grasp on the things you should and should not do when trying to co-parent with your children’s other parent.

I have made plenty of mistakes along the way but I am here to tell you that I am still crushing it as a single mom in light of some of the oopsies I have made over the years. When you never intended to get divorced, knowing what comes next and how to roll with it can come with learning as you go, and that’s exactly what I did. As a marriage and family therapist who works with clients who are divorced, going through a divorce, or remarrying and starting their blended families, I have seen a lot of different parenting styles. Here are my top 7 co-parenting dos and don’ts.

*This list is based on the ability to coparent with a healthy individual. Please do not use these tips in place of your current decree or in lieu of anything court-mandated. These are suggestions meant to help people who are able to coparent.

Do allow your kids time to talk to the other parent on the phone. You might have a set time and day when this happens or maybe you allow your kids to call whenever they want to. Either way, do allow your children the time they need to have a good conversation with the other parent. Don’t hover nearby to eavesdrop. Give your kids space and autonomy to foster that relationship.

Don’t talk badly about the other parent. There may be days when your ex-spouse upsets you and all you want to do is spat something back. Don’t. If you

— by Meagan Ruffing Dos and Don’ts in the

Co-Parenting World

Meagan Ruffing is a parenting journalist, mental health therapist, and single mom who tries to do her best each day. She doesn’t always get things right but continually strives to do better.

a friend. In the first few days of my divorce, I used to sleep in my kids’ beds and would rotate each night when I was having a hard time. You do what you need to do to get through the sleepless nights. Each one has made me so much stronger now that I’m a few years out.

must, save those words for the privacy of your own home when you are alone or when you’re out with friends and in a safe and confidential space. It’s important that your kids not hear bad things come out of your mouth about their other parent. This discredits the other parent and it discredits you as well. Keep things clean and civil. Most divorce decrees have this written in. If yours does not, consider adding it in if it’s something that has become an issue for you.

Do let your kids tell you when they miss their other parent. The first few months, even up to a year, my kids were so confused about how they should feel when they were with one parent but not the other. It was hard for them to understand why mom and dad were in two different homes and they couldn’t have access to either of us like they used to. Create that space for them to come to you and tell you that they miss dad or mom. Validate them by saying, “I know you do. Guess what? You get to see him in 2 days! Or, would you like to write him a letter?” Depending on when your children will see the other parent will determine how you might address this. Maybe a quick phone call would be helpful or simply talking through it.

Don’t call the kids (or the other parent) repeatedly when they’re not with you. Be respectful of their time with the other parent when they’re gone. I know it’s hard and I know you miss them but this is their time with that parent. Set something up in advance with the other parent so you both know when it’s okay to call. If you’re really missing your kids and it is only day one of the weekend, do something nice for yourself or call

Do help your children celebrate the holidays with the other parent. If it’s Father’s Day and they want to do something nice for their dad and ask you to pick something up, do it. Just be sure the gift is something appropriate from the kids and not something from “you,” especially if dad is remarried or in a relationship. My kids still like to do things for their grandparents on their dad’s side of the family so when the opportunity arises, and they ask me, I let them pick up a few things.

Don’t make your kids feel bad when they forget things at the other parent’s house. I read this somewhere early on after my divorce and it has been a really helpful tip for me to remember. Just the other day, my daughter forgot her jacket at her dad’s. My first reaction was frustration and I was about to say something that would reflect that but stopped and thought, “What purpose is that going to serve?” I changed my mind and said, “It’s okay. You can borrow one of mine and we’ll pick it up after school.” I know this isn’t always easy but just try to remember that shuffling their stuff back and forth can take a toll on everyone.

Do be gentle with yourself when you have those days of feeling triggered. You were once in love with this person who is no longer in your life the way they used to be. Seeing them at drop-offs or hearing them on the phone can trigger certain reactions. Take a deep breath and let yourself feel what you need to feel. I have to remind myself of this one when I get emotional at times and can’t figure out why. Well, the “why” is because I shared a life with this person and seeing them brings up waves of grief for me at times.

The dos and don’ts of each coparenting relationship will look different for everyone. If some of these that I’ve written out don’t work for you, that’s okay! Find the ones that do and celebrate the times when things feel in sync. Time will go by and things will get better.

5 Ways That Fathers Help Prevent Teen Dating Violence

Dads’ Resource Center is on a mission to make sure that fathers know they play an important role in helping to prevent teen dating violence. When Dad takes an active role, less teen dating violence happens, and for numerous reasons.

“One of the most fundamental elements of fatherhood involves a father being present to model what a man should be to his children,” said Dads’ Resource Center founder Dr. Joel N. Myers. “A son learns best how to live a life of integrity and accountability when he sees him embody these characteristics. Similarly, he learns to treat women with grace and dignity by seeing his father do the same. And a daughter is more likely to expect the men in her life to treat her with respect and dignity when she benefits from growing up with the respect, ongoing love and nurturance of her father.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), teen dating violence affects millions of young people. It can include physical violence, sexual violence, psychological distress, and stalking. It can have a long-lasting impact on the child’s well-being.

The CDC also reports that 1 in 11 female and 1 in 14 male high school students have experienced physical dating violence in the last year. When it comes to sexual dating violence among high school students, 1 in 8 females have experienced it, as have 1 in 26 males.

Here are five ways that fathers help prevent dating violence:

• Be a role model. How you act toward women will greatly influence both how your son acts toward women and the norms your daughter develops about the men in her life. Always be respectful toward women.

• The connection between a father and his children is vital for them to develop their confidence and self-worth. Be supportive of your children and help them build up their resiliency and sense of self, which will make them better able to avoid, or deal with, these types of perilous situations.

• Talk to your children about setting appropriate boundaries with others. Help them to understand the lines they need to draw to protect themselves — physically, mentally, and emotionally.

• Educate yourself on dating abuse. Loveisrespect.org has good information on the different types of dating abuse.

• Have an ongoing discussion with your children about what is going on in their lives. This includes talking about routine things, because that keeps the lines of communication going so that you can talk to them about these kinds of issues and they feel they can talk to you about these sensitive things.

“So many issues that teens are impacted by are linked to the relationship the children have with their father,” explains Dads’ Resource Center Executive Director Jeff Steiner. “It’s important that fathers play a big role in the lives of their children, even more so after a divorce takes place. When they do this, the children will be far better off, and their well-being will be much more secure.”

Dads’ Resource Center was started by Dr. Myers, a father of eight and the founder and CEO of AccuWeather. The mission is to help combat the issues associated with children growing up without their fathers in the home. At its heart, the center is a child advocacy organization that aims to ensure that each child has the appropriate involvement and contributions from both parents. To learn more, visit dadsrc.org.

P otential Growth

Th ri 

Strategies

in either the egg or the sperm fails to separate properly. The extra chromosome is replicated in every cell of the body. Ninety-five percent of all people with Down syndrome have Trisomy 21.

Facts About Down Syndrome

Source: National Association for Down Syndrome

What is Down Syndrome?

Down syndrome is a genetic condition that causes delays in physical and intellectual development. It occurs in 1 in every 792 live births. Individuals with Down syndrome have 47 chromosomes instead of the usual 46. It is the most frequently occurring chromosomal disorder. Down syndrome is not related to race, nationality, religion, or socioeconomic status. The most important fact to know about individuals with Down syndrome is that they are more like others than they are different.

Diagnosis

Down syndrome is usually identified at birth or shortly thereafter. Initially the diagnosis is based on physical characteristics that are commonly seen in babies with Down syndrome. These include low muscle tone, a single crease across the palm of the hand, a slightly flattened facial profile, and an upward slant to the eyes. The diagnosis must be confirmed by a chromosome study

(karyotype). A karyotype provides a visual display of the chromosomes grouped by their size, number, and shape. Chromosomes may be studied by examining blood or tissue cells.

Cause

Down syndrome is usually caused by an error in cell division called nondisjunction. It is not known why this occurs. However, it is known that the error occurs at conception and is not related to anything the mother did during pregnancy. It has been known for some time that the incidence of Down syndrome increases with advancing maternal age. However, 80% of children with Down syndrome are born to women under 35 years of age.

Types of Down Syndrome

There are three chromosomal patterns that result in Down syndrome:

1) Trisomy 21 (nondisjunction) is caused by a faulty cell division that results in the baby having three #21 chromosomes instead of two. Prior to or at conception, a pair of #21 chromosomes

2) Translocation accounts for only 3% to 4% of all cases. In translocation, a part of chromosome #21 breaks off during cell division and attaches to another chromosome. The presence of an extra piece of the 21st chromosome causes the characteristics of Down syndrome. Unlike Trisomy 21, which is the result of random error in the early cell division, translocation may indicate that one of the parents is carrying chromosomal material that is arranged in an unusual manner. Genetic counseling can be sought to ascertain more information when these circumstances occur.

3) Mosaicism occurs when nondisjunction of chromosome #21 takes place in one of the initial cell divisions after fertilization. When this happens, there is a mixture of two types of cells, some containing 46 chromosomes and some 47. The cells with 47 chromosomes contain an extra 21st chromosome. Because of the “mosaic” pattern of the cells, the term mosaicism is used. This type of Down syndrome occurs in only one to two percent of all cases of Down syndrome.

Regardless of the type of Down syndrome a person may have, a critical portion of the 21st chromosome is present in some or all of their cells. This additional genetic material alters the course of development and causes the characteristics associated with the syndrome.

Learning & Development

It is important to remember that

while children and adults with Down syndrome experience developmental delays, they also have many talents and gifts and should be given the opportunity and encouragement to develop them.

Most children with Down syndrome have mild to moderate impairments but it is important to note that they are more like other children than they are different. Early Intervention services should be provided shortly after birth. These services should include physical, speech and developmental therapies. Most children attend their neighborhood schools, some in regular classes, and others in special education classes. Some children have more significant needs and require a more specialized program.

Some high school graduates with Down syndrome participate in postsecondary education. Many adults with Down syndrome are capable of working in the community, but some require a more structured environment.

Health Issues

Many children with Down syndrome have health complications beyond the usual childhood illnesses. Approximately 40% of the children have congenital heart defects. It is very important that an echocardiogram be performed on all newborns with Down syndrome in order to identify any serious cardiac problems that might be present. Some of the heart conditions require surgery while others only require careful monitoring.

Children with Down syndrome have a higher incidence of infection, respiratory, vision and hearing problems as well as thyroid and other medical conditions. However, with appropriate medical care most children and adults with Down syndrome can lead healthy lives. The average life expectancy of individuals with Down syndrome is 60 years, with many living into their sixties and seventies.

Prenatal Diagnosis

Two types of procedures are available to pregnant women: screening tests and diagnostic tests. The screening tests estimate the risk of the baby having Down syndrome. Diagnostic tests tell whether or not the baby actually has Down syndrome.

To learn more visit www.nads.org.

ChoicesWellness

Is Something Stuck in Your Child’s Nose?

Try a ‘Mother’s Kiss’

How you can help your child — and when to see a doctor

Source: Cleveland Clinic

There goes your little one again, darting across the room to grab something they spotted on the floor. Inquisitive and fearless, children love to experiment. If they find a coin on the floor, it’s just as likely to go in their nose as in their piggy bank.

Foreign bodies stuck in the nose are a common occurrence in children ages 2 to 5 — and sometimes even for children as old as 7 or 8.

“Kids are more likely to put small things like beads or popcorn kernels in their noses, but I see a whole variety of things, too,” says pediatric emergency medicine specialist Purva Grover, MD.

Dr. Grover provides some insight on what you need to know if your child lodges something in their little nostril.

What are the signs of trouble?

Parents typically know when their child has put something in their nose. You’ll often see them contemplating the act from across the room, and as soon as you get to your little one, the object gets crammed into their nose.

But sometimes doctors find foreign objects during a routine office exam.

“This happens more often with older children who don’t want to get in trouble or those with developmental delays who can’t tell a parent what happened,” says Dr. Grover.

If you don’t see your child put anything in their nose, but you think there might be a problem, watch for these signs:

• A foul-smelling odor coming

from just one side of the nose.

• Symptoms similar to a sinus infection, like high fever or dark green mucus coming from the nose.

If there is something stuck in your child’s nostril, it’s important to act quickly — either try to remove it or take your child to the doctor right away.

“If you wait, an infection can develop,” she warns. “In rare cases, especially if it’s left in the nose overnight, the object can get sucked into the airway and possibly cause choking.”

Try a ‘Mother’s Kiss’ for Removal

Most foreign objects in the nose won’t come out unless a parent or doctor removes them — especially for small children, who aren’t very good at blowing their noses.

There are two important things to remember if this happens to your child:

1) Try once, then get help

Make only one attempt to remove the object on your own, unless you believe the situation is life-threatening. The more times you try, the less cooperative your child will be when the doctor tries to remove it. This increases the likelihood of needing an operation to remove the object.

2) ‘Mother’s kiss’

method

If you do try to handle the situation at home, use the “mother’s kiss” method, which works best for small, hard objects like beads. Follow these steps for the kiss method:

• Place your mouth over your child’s mouth.

• Hold the nostril that isn’t blocked closed with a finger.

• Blow gently into your child’s mouth.

You can use this process to remove hard objects without a doctor’s help. One study found that a mother’s kiss was a safe and effective technique for removing foreign objects from the nose and in some cases, it can prevent the need for general anesthesia.

Using this gentle pressure to force the object out is successful about 60% of the time, but a doctor typically will need to remove softer objects made of foam or tissue.

Lastly, Look for Other Objects

“Putting foreign objects in the nose is a habitual thing,” says Dr. Grover. “This means that if your child has put something in their nose, then they’re likely to have also tried putting something somewhere else, like maybe in an ear, too.”

So, if you find one stuck object, don’t forget to look for more. While it’s almost impossible to keep every small item away from your child’s little hands, knowing how to proceed in case something does get lodged in their nose can save you some worry.

Dog Days of Summer S

ummer is finally here! Time to get out and have fun with the entire family, including the dog. Here are 10 activities to create a memorable season, rain or shine. But before you head out, make sure Rover has parasite protection from fleas, ticks, heartworm, and up to date pet ID.

Take a Hike

WNY has lots of great parks perfect for hiking and good for everyone’s health. Make sure your dog is socialized with people, other canines, and not prone to chasing after interesting critters along the way. Keep weather in mind so overheating is not an issue. Bring water for you both to keep hydrated. Keep your dog on a leash and remember the bug spray, sunscreen and poop bags as well.

Go Camping

Summertime means pet playtime! It’s perfect for camping with family, friends, and pets. Whether you’re a backpacker, like to overnight in a pup tent, or prefer glamping for an extended stay, your dog can be a great enhancement to your summer camping plans. Make sure you and your dog are prepared by researching the campsite and bringing the right gear (including pet ID tag and microchip and first aid kit) and have fun.

Throw a Puppy Party/ Host Doggie Dinner

Does your dog have her own circle of friends? Want to introduce her to your other friends with dogs? Invite them for a deck or backyard party. Choose a theme, buy (or make) some doggie treats, and celebrate the summer. If your dog has certain toys they aren’t wild about, consider holding a pet toy exchange for entertainment.

Make Outdoor Summer Treats

You can make your own tasty treats (and probably save money as well!). Cut chunks of fruit such as watermelon into cubes and freeze. Make ice cubes using chicken broth. Check out recipes for pupsicles and soft serve treats. These are terrific on a hot afternoon. We suggest offering these treats outdoors so that you don’t end up with sticky residue on your floors.

Head to a Dog Park

More than a dozen dog parks are waiting for you and your dog in Erie and Niagara counties. It’s great playtime for pets to see their friends off-leash. A

first-time visit can be overwhelming so make sure your pooch is comfortable, and go at a quieter time if you aren’t sure how your dog will respond. Also note that most off-leash parks have vaccination and spay/neuter rules. They usually have plenty of poop bags for clean up, but it’s good to come prepared!

Head to the Ball Park

Did you know the Bisons host monthly Dog Days at Sahlens Field? You can cheer on the Bisons (or competitor) with your furry best friend next to you. While you enjoy a hotdog and Cracker Jacks, remember treats for your pet. Check the Bisons schedule for upcoming dog friendly dates and stop by the Pet Emergency Fund table.

Create a Paw Painting

It’s likely your dog has hidden talents — no, not hiding food around the house but artistic abilities! Let her express her inner Picasso with a paw painting. To create a masterpiece, buy some non-toxic washable paint and large canvas or paper. Dip your dog’s paw in the paint and have them walk across or paw at it for a treat. While the paint dries, finish with an outdoor bath.

Take Your Dog to Dinner

An increasing number of area restaurants invite your dog to sit next to you while you dine. Those with patio seating often encourage taking your dog along for al fresco dining. Make sure to bring your dog’s water dish and some of her treats to munch on while you enjoy your own order.

Arrange a Pet Portrait Sitting

Many families have portraits of humans but what about the dog? You can commission something frameable by a professional or snap your own pet portrait. Better yet, take selfies of you and your best four-legged friend. A Shutterfly or other book can help you remember these treasured times in years to come.

Go for a Dip

If you have a built-in or above ground pool — great! Swimming is great exercise for you and Fido. For those of us who don’t, get a plastic kiddie pool or sprinkler for some cooling fun. Fill the kiddie pool with a few inches of water then toss in some kibble, other treats, or a rubber ducky for your dog to retrieve. Try playing fetch through the sprinkler or invite your dog to follow you through as you both are refreshed. Make sure to have plenty of towels on hand to dry off

Fido before coming back inside. Summer is short in Western New York so make sure you and your pet make the most of it!

The Niagara Frontier Veterinary Society is comprised of more than 75 small animal hospitals and more than 220 practitioners in Erie and Niagara Counties. It exists to advance public awareness and understanding of proper pet health care, veterinary services, and the veterinary profession.

— Courtesy of the Niagara Frontier Veterinary Society

SWEET & SOUR COLESLAW

Free of: DAIRY, EGGS, SOY, PEANUTS, TREE NUTS, FISH, SHELLFISH, WHEAT, GLUTEN, VEGAN

Yield: 16 servings

We were trying to figure out what the family should have for a special meal for Father’s Day. Wanting to keep it simple enough for the kids to prepare, dad proposed sub sandwiches with potato salad and coleslaw.

The sandwich was easy enough. The challenge for us was the traditionally mayonnaise laden salads. We’re dealing with egg and milk allergies, so we had to find another option. And as we searched for something new, we stumbled upon something old — and delicious. I’m not sure when mayo and the

sweeter salad dressing first got added to potato and cabbage, but there are recipes that date back further using other handy — and less perishable ingredients. They have the added benefit of being safe at room temperature, perfect for picnics and summer gatherings where you don’t need to refrigerate.

The two recipes below are just two of many varieties of coleslaw and potato salad. They are highly adaptable, so add your own ingredients to suit your family’s taste. Both salads are even better the next day, so you can make in advance. Happy Father’s Day!

Sweet & Sour Potato Salad

Free of: DAIRY, EGGS, SOY, PEANUTS, TREE NUTS, FISH, SHELLFISH, WHEAT, GLUTEN, can be VEGAN*

Yield: 8-12 servings

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 20-30 minutes

3 pounds red or Yukon gold potatoes, cubed (no need to peel!)

8 slices bacon*, cut into smaller pieces

1 small onion, diced

1/2 cup apple cider vinegar

1/4 cup water

3 tablespoons sugar

Salt and pepper to taste

In a large pan, cover the potatoes with water. Bring to a boil, and cook for about 20-30 minutes until the potatoes can be pierced easily with a fork. Drain.

In a frying pan, fry the bacon until browned. Remove the bacon from the pan, set aside. In the same pan with bacon drippings, add the onions, cook over medium heat until softened, about 6-8 minutes. Remove pan from heat. Stir the vinegar, water, sugar, salt, pepper and bacon to the bacon drippings and onion. Pour the hot mixture over the potatoes; toss until well coated. Serve at room temperature.

*Vegan adaptation: Omit bacon, replace with 1/2 cup canola oil

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 0 minutes

2 16oz bags coleslaw mix (or 1 medium head of cabbage, shredded)

1 small onion, diced

1 cup shredded carrots

1/2 cup sugar

1/2 cup apple cider vinegar

1/4 cup canola oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Mix all ingredients together. Refrigerate for several hours, better overnight or even days later. Will last in the refrigerator for at least a week. NOTE: there will be a lot of liquid after coleslaw sits for a while. You can drain the excess liquid or serve with a slotted spoon.

If you have any questions about our column, e-mail Kathy at allergy@ roadrunner.com. For further information about food allergies, contact FARE www.foodallergy.org, or call 1-800-9294040.

Kathy Lundquist is a Western New York parent whose son, now an adult, was born with severe food allergies. Over the last two decades, she has worked tirelessly, in a variety of capacities, to increase community awareness about food allergies.

THE KIDDIE GOUR ME T

— by Barbara Blackburn

The rooster crows and howls off Englewood Avenue at the Howling Rooster. After kids are seated appropriately, they can be entertained with coloring books and crayons. The pages will be torn out and placed on the bulletin board for display. The Kids’ Menu on the regular menu is for those seven and under (younger than most kids’ menus). Items include Egg Homefries & Toast ($2.99), Grilled Cheese & Fries or Mac & Cheese (both $4.99), Chicken Fingers & Fries and Hot Dog & Fries (both $5.99).

The Howling Rooster Restaurant & Bar

529 Englewood Ave. Tonawanda, NY 14223

838-4440

thehowlingrooster.com

~ SPOONS ~ FOOD 4.5/5

SERVICE 5/5

FAMILY FRIENDLY 5/5

I have a talent for ordering what the restaurant has on the menu but doesn’t have in the kitchen. That’s what happened with the Fried Pretzel Sticks and the special Guava drink. So, I settled for the Grand Rooster ($18.99). The grilled chicken breast topped with a marinated tomato, arugula, fresh mozzarella cheese, pesto and glaze, served on a brioche roll, was something to cock-a-doodle-doo about. It was both big on taste and certainly size. With it, I got a plenteous plateful of Tater Tots. In actuality, the tots are like French-style mashed potato fritters, in my mind and in my mouth.

Dad, being a fan of mushrooms and a fun guy, picked the Fun-Guy Burger ($18.99). Sautéed mushrooms and Swiss cheese with lettuce, tomato and onion made this fun for the taste buds. He almost chose another fun food: Three Amigos Tacos, with spicy slaw, pickled red onions, Cotija cheese and Bawk Bawk sauce. The burger shared the plate with some of that captivating to the palate coleslaw. Had he ordered the tacos, he would have had his choice of Flat Iron Steak, Seasoned Chicken, or Mahi Mahi ($19.99, $15.99, or $17.99).

The Howling Rooster features quite a few interesting choices; hopefully they will find their way to your table on your visit. For an Appetizer & Salad choice there is Pork Belly Stack — crispy pork belly, fresh mozzarella cheese, arugula, and house steak sauce ($14.99). Crispy Coconut Cauliflower ($12.99) is a creative way to serve that vegetable with coconut chili lime glaze.

We must admit that we were there during restaurant week but too early for the specials, so we were able to study the regular breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus.

Benny’s Corner has some popular selections, with some new twists, such as the Benedict Arnold — a buttermilk biscuit, with a sausage patty, poached eggs, and sausage gravy. Then there is the Crabby Benny — crab cakes topped with poached eggs and Hollandaise sauce on a toasted English muffin.

Looking to strike up a conversation with your child?

Here

are some

FUN QUESTIONS to get things going!

What is your favorite book?

What is the hardest part about going to school?

We asked for the “artistically arranged” dessert tray and selected the striped berry cheesecake parked in a minimal graham cracker crust (the way I prefer), with a pleasantly palatable taste and texture ($9.00). Prices are higher these days, and so it was with all of those gorgeous sweets on the tray. Another confession we must make is that we ordered dessert first. It’s better for the teeth that way. Plus, you know what they say about life being short... Anyway, we saved some morsels for a sweet ending. *Source

Barbara Blackburn has been writing The Kiddie Gourmet column for 35 years, beginning when her son and daughter were eating from the Kids’ Menu; now her grandchildren have taken over that important job!

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