Family Times January 2022 by Family Times

JANUARY 2022

FREE

HOW TO KEEP CHILDREN MOTIVATED FOR SECOND SEMESTER

TIPS FOR ORGANIZING YOUR HOME IN THE NEW YEAR

the winter issue

WINTER ACTIVITIES GUIDE

Skiing and snowboarding lessons, indoor play spots and more

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FAMILY TIMES JANUARY 2022

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CONTENTS

JANUARY 2022

EDITOR’S NOTE

QUESTION OF THE MONTH

EDUCATOR OF THE MONTH

315 BULLETIN

TREAT YOURSELF

View more than 200 species of animals at the Rosamond Gifford Zoo.

EDUCATION

FEATURE

NUTRITIONAL CONTENT

ACTIVITIES

Five ways to avoid the mid-year elementary school blues.

Liz Bremer, owner of Put it Simply Organizing, offers some tips for reducing clutter.

Is a busy schedule keeping you from your goals? Check out our tips and tricks.

We round up the best places for skiing and snowboarding lessons, indoor play, and more in our Winter Family Guide.

FAMILY FUN

24 CALENDAR A D V E R T I S E R ’ S I N D E X Canterbury Stables....................................................5 Commerce Chenango...............................................7 Crouse Hospital.........................................................9 Food Bank of CNY................................................. 18 Hematology-Oncology Associates of CNY........9 Inlet................................................................................2 La Fleur De Beaute....................................................7 Pediatric Associates................................................ 18 Premier Promotions - Winter Fest.......................5 Smith Housewares & Restaurant Supply.............2 MICHAEL DAVIS PHOTO

FAMILY TIMES JANUARY 2022

FROM THE

THE PARENTING GUIDE OF CENTRAL NEW YORK

EDITOR Happy 2022! What are your resolutions for the new year?

Are you hoping to eat better or lose weight, but your busy schedule keeps getting in the way? Molly Morgan offers some tips for staying on track on page 16. Or maybe you’re hoping to be more organized in 2022. I recently talked to Liz Bremer, a certified professional organizer and the owner of Put it Simply Organizing, about some ways you can declutter your home – and get the entire family involved (page 14). January is also a great time to get out of the house and explore all that Central New York has to offer during the winter months. Turn to page 19 for a list of skiing and snowboarding lessons, indoor play spots, and much more. Rounding out our January digital issue: Sarah Lyons shares some ways to keep your children motivated for the entire school year (page 12); I treat myself to a visit to the Rosamond Gifford Zoo (page 11); and Janelle Davis talks to Tim Herron, a local music teacher, in this month’s Educator of the Month feature (page 8). Wishing you a safe and happy New Year!

JANUARY 2022 | ISSUE NO. 235

GENIUSES AT WORK PUBLISHER/OWNER William Brod EDITOR IN CHIEF Courtney Kless CourtneyK@familytimescny.com CONTENT DIRECTOR Steve Guglielmo PHOTOGRAPHY EDITOR Karley Harmon CIRCULATION DIRECTOR Tom Tartaro CREATIVE SERVICES MANAGER Karley Harmon GRAPHIC DESIGNER Renate Wood CONTRIBUTORS Neil Davis Jr., Tammy DiDomenico, Eileen Gilligan, Molly Morgan, Janelle Davis, Laura Livingston Snyder, Christy Perry Tuohey, Natalie Davis SALES MANAGER Tim Hudson (ext. 201) ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS Lesli Mitchell (ext. 204) LMitchell@familytimescny.com Anne DeSantis (ext. 203) ADesantis@familytimescny.com

COURTNEY KLESS EDITOR IN CHIEF

CONTROLLER Chris Burton (ext. 202) CBurton@familytimescny.com ADDRESS

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

INSIDE Family Times readers share their New Year’s resolutions on page 6. Visit our social media pages to answer the February Question of the Month.

Advertising deadline for April is March 16. Calendar deadline for April is March 3. Advertising deadline for February is Jan. 14. Calendar deadline for February is Jan. 5. Design by Renate Wood Cover Photo by iStock

FAMILY TIMES JANUARY 2022

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P O N Y C A M P 2 0 2 2 — D E T A I L S C O M I N G S O O N FAMILY TIMES JANUARY 2022

QUESTION of the MONTH

What is your 2022 New Year’s Resolution? “To continue to stay cancer-free. Four years remission from breast cancer.”

“To give back more to my community.”

“To start step aerobics, to paint the living room and kitchen walls.”

– Vanessa

– Maddy

North Syracuse

– Mandy

Syracuse

LaFayette

“Prioritize what’s important – family, relationships, personal growth.” – Alise

“Hike mountains/spend time with family.”

Fayetteville

– Connie

Fulton

“Learn frisbee golf, learn Hebrew, grow lemon trees.”

“Be healthier.”

– Trina

– Alyssa

Fabius Syracuse

“Spend more time with family!” “To stay healthy.”

– Katie

Auburn

– Carol

Jamesville

Visit our social media pages to answer the February Question of the Month! @FAMILYTIMES

@FAMILYTIMESCNY

@CNYFAMILYTIMES

QUESTION OF THE MONTH

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FAMILY TIMES JANUARY 2022

Tim Herron, Music Teacher By Janelle Davis 1. What is your background and what/where are you teaching now? Throughout my music career, I have always taught private lessons. I have a degree in performance from SUNY Oswego. The year after I graduated, I was asked to teach as an adjunct professor for the Oswego jazz lab group. I started getting asked to do things like teach music groups at CNY Pace. I did that for 10 years until the pandemic started. I ran music groups at Elmcrest Music Center. Then I started teaching in Auburn at Spotlight Studios. I started just filling in and then they asked me to teach permanently, so I’ve been there since 2017. I have also been the music teacher at Most Holy Rosary for four years. So, I do a variety of music-based things. 2. You obviously love music. Is there an instrument that you enjoy teaching more than the others? I’m a guitar player by nature. That is probably my favorite to teach, but I also like to teach piano. It’s a go-to instrument to learn because it is so accessible. Kids pick it up way quicker than guitar. It may seem complicated, but it isn’t. I always

steer younger kids to piano. I see a lot of lights turned on with piano, and a lot of frustration with guitar. But I love to teach guitar to those who have been doing it for a while and show them my techniques. 3. Can you tell us more about what you do at Spotlight Studios? We are a part of what’s called Mozaic, which used to be the Arc. Spotlight Studios is an arts-based center for adults with disabilities. The music department there is the biggest department. There are music classes, and we also have showcase nights, where performance groups perform a show once a month. They sing and dance in front of a live audience. One of the things we did in one of my classes was make a Christmas album that we won a SAMMY for. We also just did an original music project where students wrote their own songs and entered them into The Danny Awards. We’ve done a lot of cool and interesting things. We’re just trying to get it back to where we can perform in-person again. Right now, our performances are live streams on Facebook.

4. What are you most proud of from all of your different music education “roles?” There are a couple things. One of the coolest things that I’ve done is making the Christmas album with my Spotlight students and getting the SAMMY. Also, my concerts at Most Holy are really cool. I try to take a different approach to them. For our spring concert, we did a tribute to The Beatles – from Pre-K to sixth grade, all Beatles songs. Another thing that I’m proud of is when I worked with a boy, Sultan. He contacted me when I started working with adults with disabilities. He has cerebral palsy and he wanted to learn the guitar. For a year and a half to two years, we started redesigning and I started building things to accommodate him to be able to play the guitar. It made him so happy to be able to play. I love that I get to teach my kid, too. I get to be his music teacher at school and also for private lessons. Janelle Davis is a freelance writer living in Fairmount with her family.

Know an educator who deserves a mention? Email courtneyk@familytimescny.com. 8

EDUCATOR OF THE MONTH

PHOTO BY JULIA CHRISTINE PHOTOGRAPHY

Crouse Health’s family-centered maternity care goes beyond the expected when you’re expecting, providing around-theclock care and support throughout all phases of pregnancy — before, during and after delivery. That’s why our diverse team of highly regarded OB/GYN physicians, nurses, midwives and doulas delivers more babies than any other hospital in Central New York. Along with 24-hour in-house OB and anesthesia coverage, Crouse offers the most comprehensive resources and services to make your birth experience special — from an array of pre-birth classes, lactation support and integrative therapies, to personalized post-delivery care for both mom and baby. Thankfully, most births go as planned. Yet it’s reassuring to know the region’s highest level of specialized newborn care is only available in our Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

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When it comes to learning your risk of cancer – including breast cancer – knowledge is power. That’s why Hematology-Oncology Associates of CNY is proud to offer comprehensive Cancer Genetics Testing and Counseling with specially trained experts. Available to anyone – not just HOA patients – Cancer Genetics Testing and Counseling: • helps you and your family make better-informed decisions about your healthcare • is covered by most insurance plans • begins with a simple blood sample To see if Cancer Genetics Testing and Counseling is right for you, talk with your doctor and take our five-minute survey at hoacny.com/cancergenetics or by scanning this code.

FAMILY TIMES DECEMBER 2022

MOST NAMES New Presenting Sponsor FOR BE THE SCIENTIST

he Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science & Technology, which recently celebrated 40 years, has a new presenting sponsor for its Be the Scientist program – Amazon.

Held on the last Saturday of each month, the program allows visitors to explore careers in STEM. Upcoming topics include: Be the Robotics Engineer; Be the Drone Operator; Be the Orthopedist; and Be the Zoologist. “We are overwhelmed with excitement to work with Amazon and welcome them into our community,” said Lauren Kochian, MOST president, in a press release. “Especially with a program like Be the Scientist, having funding to support career exploration makes a difference in the thousands of students we serve each year. Hands-on education is critical to fill a huge and growing STEM career pipeline, and Amazon’s support enables the MOST to continue to grow this program. We can’t thank Amazon enough for their contribution to the MOST.” For more information, visit most.org/learn/be-the-scientist.

GIRL SCOUTS OF NYPENN PATHWAYS Wins International Award

he Girl Scouts of NYPENN Pathways (GSNYPENN) Council was recently recognized at the 18th Annual International Business Awards, winning a Bronze Stevie® Award for its 2020 Annual Impact Report. A virtual ceremony was held on Dec. 8. “Our 2020 Annual Impact Report was designed to commemorate the extraordinary efforts of our girl and adult members, staff, and community partners during a once-in-a-lifetime event: the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Wendy Cobrda, GSNYPENN chief marketing and strategy officer, in a press release. “Our goal was to communicate the gravity of the situation and the duality of our membership year (beginning normally on Oct. 1, 2019, and taking a sharp turn in midMarch 2020), while highlighting the joyous spirit of our members who continued to earn their highest awards, kept each other comforted during the crisis, and quickly pivoted when in-person activities were no longer safe.” For more information about GSNYPENN, visit www.gsnypenn. org. 10

315 BULLETIN

BLIPPI THE MUSICAL Coming to Syracuse

s your child a fan of Blippi? The YouTube star will make several stops in Upstate New York, including one at Syracuse’s Landmark Theatre on March 1. Tickets start at $27.50 and are available for purchase via Ticketmaster. For more information, visit landmarktheatre.org/ event/blippi-the-musical.

WONDERWORKS SYRACUSE Hosts Homeschool Days

re you the parent of a homeschooler or virtual learner? Homeschool Days are returning to WonderWorks Syracuse, with discounted rates ($12 per person) available each weekday before 3 p.m. The promotion will run through the end of February. For more information, visit wonderworksonline. com/destiny/homeschool.

For more community news, visit cle. communityguide.familytimescny.com/arti il ema , item news To submit a courtneyk@familytimescny.com.

MICHAEL DAVIS PHOTOS

Treat Yourself View more than 200 species of animals at the Rosamond Gifford Zoo | BY COURTNEY KLESS

ow that winter is in full swing, are you suffering from cabin fever? I know I am.

Get some fresh air – and learn about animals – at the Rosamond Gifford Zoo. Located in Burnet Park, the zoo was founded in 1914, and houses more than 200 different species, according to its website, ranging in size from poison dart frogs to Asian elephants. Tickets cost $9 for adults ($5 if you visit during Snow Leopard Day in January and February), and can be purchased online or at the door.

my personal favorite, the Humboldt penguins. Afterwards, we checked out two of the zoo’s indoor exhibits: Social Animals (primates, lemurs, porcupines) and Diversity of Birds (exotic birds in a tropical rainforest setting). All in all, it took us about an hour to walk around the entire zoo. It is definitely worth a visit during the winter months – just make sure to bundle up! Please note: Visit the zoo’s website, rosamondgiffordzoo.org, for current information about COVID regulations.

This was my third time visiting the zoo. We started with the 0.5-mile Wildlife Trail, learning about numerous animals along the way (many of which like the colder weather), including camels, a red panda, a snow leopard, an Andean bear, an Amur tiger, and

TREAT YOURSELF

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

IF YOU GO

ROSAMOND GIFFORD ZOO

Where: 1 Conservation Place, Syracuse. When: Daily from 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. More information: (315) 435-8511. rosamondgiffordzoo.org.

FAMILY TIMES JANUARY 2022

Mid-Year Elementary School Blues How to Keep Kids Motivated the Entire School Year | BY SARAH LYONS

acking lunches, doing nightly homework, studying for spelling tests, and scrambling about during the morning rush; the thrill of a new school year has worn off and kids start to drag their feet a little more on school mornings as they return for the start of the second semester. How do you keep kids motivated to finish out the last months of the school year strong?

Set Goals It’s important to let your child know you have high expectations for them throughout the year, not just first semester. Work with your child to set goals for success and reward them for meeting their goals. Some kids may

EDUCATION

need an academic goal, while others need goals such as no tardies for the quarter or turning all assignments in on time. Communicate with your child’s teacher to come up with some beneficial goals for your child. Rewards could include a special outing as a family, going out for ice cream, picking out a special toy, or extra screen time.

Stay Positive As parents who are tired of packing lunches and reminding children to put their shoes on for the fifth time in one morning, it can be hard to stay positive. However, a positive attitude can go a long way for both parents and kids. Focus on the excitement of learning, seeing friends, and upcoming events to encourage your child that

ISTOCK PHOTO

school is still as fun as it was back in August. Your positive attitude will become contagious, and your child will start to get excited about school again too.

Show an Interest One thing that can have a huge impact on your child’s excitement about school is their parents’ interest. When your child returns home from school ask him about his day, his friends, and the highs and lows of the day. Listen attentively and ask questions. When it is homework time, be available to help and answer questions. When parents are excited and interested in the goings on at school, kids will be too.

Get Involved Kids who are involved in school activities tend to be more excited about school. Encourage your child to join clubs and after school activities where they will be around school friends. Parents can also get involved at the school to break up the

mid-year blues. When kids see their parents working at the school, it shows them that you value their time there. Check with your school to see what volunteer opportunities are available.

Continue Healthy Habits Encourage your child to get a good night’s rest, eat a healthy breakfast, and focus on good study habits. An afterschool routine to complete homework and chores will help your child fall back into the school schedule after winter break. Set aside time for free time as well. Host a play date, have a movie night, go to the park if weather allows, and schedule time for fun and relaxation so kids don’t get too bored with their routine. If the mid-year blues are still getting to your child, don’t hesitate to contact your child’s teacher to discuss a plan to get your child back on track. Soon enough the days will begin to get longer, the temperatures warmer, and school will be out for summer once again.

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(315) 682-2835 FAMILY TIMES JANUARY 2022

Easy Ways to Organize Your Home Liz Bremer, owner of Put it Simply Organizing, offers some tips for reducing clutter BY COURTNEY KLESS

FEATURE

ISTOCK PHOTO

he start of a new year is the perfect time to reduce clutter in your home. And the benefits of doing so are numerous.

“The biggest one I would say is reduced stress,” said Liz Bremer, a certified professional organizer and the owner of Put it Simply Organizing in Manlius. “You are saving time by not spending time looking for things. You’re saving money by not buying things that you already have. It improves relationships. I’ve had clients say that getting organized has saved their marriage. Being more efficient. All of these things are great.” Read on for Bremer’s tips about how to organize your home – and get the entire family involved in the process.

Where to Start Are you feeling overwhelmed and aren’t sure where to start? Bremer recommends identifying the rooms or areas in your house that are causing you the most stress – and begin there. If you aren’t sure of the answer, start with the spaces that you use most (such as the kitchen, a bedroom, or a bathroom), and avoid storage areas. “A lot of people say, ‘Oh, I’ll start in storage areas, then I can clean them out and have more room to store stuff.’ That’s usually just counterproductive,” said Bremer. Another common pitfall is zig-zag organizing, or jumping from one room to another to another. “I really encourage people to stick to one space, start it, finish it, then move on to the next space,” said Bremer. “That’s the best methodology.” Last, but not least, make sure that you are getting rid of items as you go otherwise “you’re just kind of moving things around,” said Bremer. “If you really want to make big changes, you want to purge.”

Organizing Items in Your Home Paperwork, Artwork It’s no secret that children bring home a lot of papers from school. To help keep everything organized, create a space where they can put those papers each day, such as a labeled bin for each child. Later, parents can go through those bins and decide what to keep – or throw away. “They’re getting rid of any daily work, like math worksheets. Those aren’t sentimental things that you tend to want to keep,” said Bremer. “The things that you do want to keep, I encourage parents to have a bin for each child with keepsakes.”

one or two toys that encourage reading, one or two that encourage dexterity; that kind of thing,” said Bremer. “Put the other toys that have a similar function away. Then once every two months, rotate the toys out. Sometimes that’s a good way to do it if you’re feeling like, ‘Oh, there’s just so much.’”

Clothing Clothing is another source of clutter. “Young kids grow quickly, so it’s important to understand where each kind of size is,” said Bremer. “In every child’s closet that I work in, I set up a container or basket for outgrown clothes. On a daily basis as you’re pulling out clothes and you’re like, ‘Wow, I didn’t know this was in here. This is way too small,’ chuck it in the basket.” Once the basket or container is full, you can put the clothes in a bin (labeled by size) and keep them for a younger sibling – or donate them.

Get the Whole Family Involved “As parents, our real true goal with our children is to teach them how to become independent and do things themselves, and to provide them with skills that they can use throughout their lives,” said Bremer. “Organizing is a skill that everyone will need and use throughout their whole life, so get them involved as much as possible.” One way to do that is by getting kids involved with the purging process. Teach them about charity, and encourage them to donate things they no longer use or love. “Rather than going one-by-one, and saying, ‘I don’t want this, I want this,’ just say, ‘Here’s a huge pile. Pick your top 10 treasures,’” said Bremer. “That’s a great strategy for kids. They handle it really well, better than adults, to be honest.” But perhaps most importantly, make sure your children are onboard before implementing a new organization system in their spaces – “it’s more likely they’re going to want to maintain it,” said Bremer.

Final Thoughts If you are still feeling overwhelmed, don’t be afraid to ask for help from an organized friend or professional. “Sometimes being intimate with your own stuff is just too hard to do by yourself,” said Bremer. Courtney Kless is the Editor in Chief of Family Times. She lives in Camillus with her husband.

Toys Do you feel like you are always stepping on, or around, toys? If your home has space, Bremer recommends having two areas for children’s stuff: a playroom or finished basement where they’re actively playing and learning, and a bedroom where they can keep quiet activities (such as books and stuffed animals) – that way, they “understand what activities they’re supposed to do in each space,” she said. Then, every 3-6 months, parents should go through each area and remove any toys and other items that aren’t being used, or that aren’t age appropriate. If you want to save the toys for a younger sibling, create a labeled bin for them in a storage area. “If you still have too many toys that you can’t part with, I often recommend a toy rotation, where you’re saying, ‘Alright, let’s have

Did you know January is National Get Organized Month?

FAMILY TIMES JANUARY 2022

Nutrition in No Time Are you always on the go? These tips will help you stay on track in 2022 | BY MOLLY MORGAN

hort on time? Busy schedule? No time to cook? If you can’t figure out what to make for dinner, these tips and tricks can help you to stick to your food and nutrition goals – even with the craziest of schedules.

Make a Plan Eating healthier doesn’t happen by accident. Taking the time to have a food plan for the week for you and your family can make all the difference. Start by mapping out the week ahead and ask yourself a series of questions: What should we have for breakfast? What will we need to pack for lunches? What nights will we be at home for dinner? What nights will we have time to cook? Once you answer these questions, you can start to get a sense of how meals will shape up for the week, and you can start to fill it in with food choices for meals. After your plan is drafted, you can compile your grocery shopping list and stock up on the ingredients necessary to make the plan happen.

for Monday night. Over the weekend, when you have some down time, you can get the meal ready to go into the oven and have the salad prepared and ready to go. This will allow for a quick and easy dinner on nights when your schedule is super crazy. You can also pre-roast batches of vegetables for the week or slice vegetables for dinners like taco night. Get your children involved in the food preparation too. Depending on the age of your children, you can adjust tasks to be age appropriate. Check out the Kids Cook Monday website for a list of age-appropriate kitchen tasks.

Utilize Tools There are lots of helpful tools available to make healthier eating easier, from convenience foods and apps to services and kitchen gadgets.

Prep Ahead

Convenience foods can help save time and add quality nutrients to a meal – frozen vegetables, whole grain rice mixes or prepared sauces can be a timesaver. Here are few quick specific examples:

For super busy weeks, you can do some food preparation ahead of time. For example, prep ahead of time baked rigatoni and salad

• Stock up on bags of frozen vegetables, which can be a perfect addition to dinners like stir-fry vegetables for a stir-fry meal or

NUTRITIONAL CONTENT

ISTOCK PHOTOS

fajita vegetables for taco night, and you can even serve prepared frozen vegetables as a side dish to go with a meal. • Quick cooking whole grain boxed grain mixes like seasoned quinoa or brown rice. These tend to be pre-cooked, so the preparation time is less. These are typically found in the rice section of the grocery store. • Prepared sauces are a perfect addition to meals like spaghetti to go with whole grain pasta, pizza sauce for DIY pizzas or guacamole for taco night. As far as phone apps, a great time saver is the Instacart app. If your grocery store participates with the service, it is worth giving it a try! Instacart allows you to grocery shop from the app and then drive up to the grocery store to pick-up your groceries. Depending on where you live, you can even have the groceries delivered to your home. It will cost you a bit more for each item you buy, but you may find you stick to your grocery list more, which could ultimately save money. A meal kit service can also be great for super busy weeks. It can help you find some new recipe and meal ideas. Meal kit services like Green Chef, HelloFresh or Blue Apron will allow you to select a number of meals (the number depends on your subscription level) and ship all the ingredients along with the recipe. A bonus is that most ingredients arrive pre-portioned, ready to be utilized in the recipe and require minimal preparation. Kitchen gadgets like the Instant Pot or slow cookers can be very helpful when preparing meals for busy weeks. The slow cooker is great for chili, soups, roasted meats and stews, and the Instant Pot – which cooks food under pressure – lets you prepare a soup or meal in a matter of minutes. Work meals that utilize these kitchen gadgets into nights when you are short on time. Wishing you the healthiest New Year yet!

Instant Pot Lemon Chicken Serves six

INGREDIENTS: • 6-8 boneless skinless chicken thighs • ½ teaspoon garlic powder • 2 tablespoons olive oil • 3 tablespoons butter • 1 small sweet onion, chopped • 4 cloves garlic, minced • 1 teaspoon basil • 1 teaspoon oregano • Juice of 1 lemon and lemon zest • 1/3 cup low sodium chicken broth

DIRECTIONS: 1. Use the sauté feature on the Instant Pot and add the olive oil. Then, add the chicken breasts and cook to sear on each side. Once the chicken is lightly browned on each side, set aside. 2. Add the butter to the Instant Pot and then add the onion and garlic. Cook for 3 minutes. Then add the basil, oregano, lemon juice, lemon zest and chicken broth. 3. Add the chicken back to the pot. Seal the lid on the pot and adjust the pressure cook time to 7 minutes (note: it will take about 7 – 10 minutes to heat up). When it is done cooking, allow the steam to naturally release or follow the instructions to carefully quickly release the steam. Serving suggestion: serve over cooked brown rice with roasted broccoli.

FAMILY TIMES JANUARY 2022

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WINTER ACTIVITIES GUIDE

@FAMILYTIMESCNY

@CNYFAMILYTIMES

winter FAMILY FAMILY GUIDE GUIDE Whether you’re looking to get out of the house and embrace the cold weather, or would rather stay indoors, we’ve got you covered with our guide to winter activities. Please note: Visit each website for more information about current COVID-19 guidelines. FAMILY TIMES JANUARY 2022

snow tubing cross-country skiing snowshoeing ice skating hiking

Skiing and Snowboarding Lessons Are you hoping to sign up your child for skiing or snowboarding lessons? These mountains and ski hills are the perfect place to start – and they’re all an hour or less from Syracuse.

sledding

FOUR SEASONS GOLF & SKI CENTER

sleigh rides

The closest option on this list, Four Seasons offers a four-week and a six-week program for first-time skiers and snowboarders, as well as one day lessons. This year, parents can also purchase a “Ski With Your Kids” pass. Where: 8012 E. Genesee St., Fayetteville. More information: fourseasonsgolfandski.com.

GREEK PEAK MOUNTAIN RESORT At Central New York’s largest ski resort, there are plenty of options for all ages (and skill levels), including group lessons, family lessons, Learn to Ski/Snowboard packages, and full and half-day programs for children. While you’re there, make sure to also check out its adventure center and indoor water park, which is kept at 84 degrees year-round. Where: 2000 Route 392, Cortland. More information: greekpeak.net.

LABRADOR MOUNTAIN AND SONG MOUNTAIN Families can choose from a variety of lessons and packages: Learn-to-Ski Pac (ages 8+), Learn-to-Snowboard Pac (ages 8+), Song Bird/Kids’ Towne (ages 4-12), and group lessons (ages 8+). Reservations are required. Afterwards, stop by The Last Run or Heuga’s Alpine for a bite to eat. Where: 6935 Route 91, Truxton (Labrador Mountain); 1 Song Mountain Road, Tully (Song Mountain). More information: skicny.com.

SKANEATELES SKI CLUB Run by volunteers, Skaneateles Ski Club offers group ski lessons (children must be ages five and up), as well as private lessons for all ages – you don’t have to be a member to sign up. But keep in mind, families must bring their own equipment. Where: 2995 State Route 174, Marietta. More information: skiskan.com.

MICHAEL DAVIS PHOTO

WOODS VALLEY SKI AREA Located about an hour from Syracuse, Woods Valley provides instruction in private, semi-private, and group settings. Learn to Ski and Learn to Snowboard packages are also available, and include a group lesson, lift pass, and equipment rental. Where: 9100 Route 46, Westernville. More information: woodsvalleyskiarea.com. 20

WINTER ACTIVITIES GUIDE

ALLYN ICE ARENA

Winter Activities Guide Central New York has no shortage of outdoor activities during the winter months. These are some of the best places to hike, snowshoe, ice skate, and more.

Where: 97 State St., Skaneateles. More information: auburnymca.org/ice-programs.

BALTIMORE WOODS NATURE CENTER Where: 4007 Bishop Hill Road, Marcellus. More information: baltimorewoods.org.

BEAVER LAKE NATURE CENTER Where: 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. More information: onondagacountyparks.com/parks/beaver-lake-nature-center.

CAMILLUS ERIE CANAL PARK Where: 5750 Devoe Road, Camillus. More information: eriecanalcamillus.com.

CAMILLUS SKI HILL Where: 401 Blackmore Road, Camillus. More information: camillusskihill.com.

CLARK RESERVATION STATE PARK Where: 6105 E. Seneca Turnpike, Jamesville. More information: parks.ny.gov/parks/clarkreservation.

CLINTON SQUARE ICE RINK Where: 2 S. Clinton St., Syracuse. More information: skatesinthecity.com/clintonsquare.

FOUR SEASONS GOLF & SKI CENTER Where: 8012 E. Genesee St., Fayetteville. More information: fourseasonsgolfandski.com.

GREAT SWAMP CONSERVANCY Where: 8375 N. Main St., Canastota. More information: greatswampconservancy.org.

GREEK PEAK MOUNTAIN RESORT Where: 2000 Route 392, Cortland. More information: greekpeak.net.

GREEN LAKES STATE PARK

MICHAEL DAVIS PHOTO

Where: 7900 Green Lakes Road, Fayetteville. More information: parks.ny.gov/parks/172/details.aspx.

HIGHLAND FOREST Where: 1254 Highland Park Road, Fabius. More information: onondagacountyparks.com/parks/highland-forest. continued on page 22 FAMILY TIMES JANUARY 2022

MICHAEL DAVIS PHOTO

continued from page 21

KENNEDY ARENA Where: 500 W. Embargo St., Rome More information: romenewyork.com/kennedy-arena.

LABRADOR HOLLOW UNIQUE AREA Where: Labrador Road, Tully. More information: dec.ny.gov/lands/37070.html.

LIME HOLLOW NATURE CENTER Where: 338 McLean Road, Cortland. More information: limehollow.org.

OSCEOLA TUG HILL CROSS COUNTRY SKI CENTER Where: 1486 Osceola Road, Camden. More information: uxcski.com.

ROGERS ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION CENTER Where: 2721 NY-80, Sherburne. More information: friendsofrogers.org.

SELKIRK SHORES STATE PARK

MEACHEM ICE RINK

Where: 7101 State Route 3, Pulaski. More information: parks.ny.gov/parks/84/details.aspx.

Where: 121 W. Seneca Turnpike, Syracuse. More information: syracuse.recdesk.com.

SUNNYCREST ICE RINK

MIDSTATE ATHLETIC COMMUNITY CENTER Where: 5575 Meltzer Ct., Cicero. More information: midstateny.org.

ONEIDA SHORES PARK Where: 9400 Bartell Road, Brewerton. More information: onondagacountyparks.com/parks/oneidashores-park.

ONONDAGA LAKE PARK Where: 106 Lake Drive, Liverpool. More information: onondagacountyparks.com/parks/onondaga-lake-park.

Where: 698 Robinson St., Syracuse. More information: skatesinthecity.com/sunnycrest.

SUNY MORRISVILLE ICEPLEX Where: 105 Madison Road, Morrisville. More information: iceplex.morrisville.edu.

THREE RIVERS ATHLETIC COMPLEX Where: 2725 West Entry Road, Baldwinsville. More information: lysanderhockey.com/trac.

WOODS VALLEY SKI AREA Where: 9100 Route 46, Westernville. More information: woodsvalleyskiarea.com.

WINTER ACTIVITIES GUIDE

BILLY BEEZ

Indoor Play Spots Are you looking for a place where your kids can release some of their pent-up energy – and stay warm in the process? Check out these local destinations.

Located inside Destiny USA, this indoor play space features slides, ball pits, tunnels, trampolines, and sports courts. There is also a Mini Beez area for younger children. Where: Destiny USA, 9090 Destiny USA Drive, Syracuse. More information: billybeezus.com/location/destiny-usa.

CENTRAL ROCK GYM Central Rock Gym recently underwent an expansion, and now offers 22,000 square feet of terrain for rock climbing. Families can purchase a day pass or check out one of its youth programs – either way, no experience is necessary. Where: 600 N. Franklin St., Syracuse. More information: centralrockgym.com/syracuse.

PLAY SPACE Play Space first opened in 2017, moving into a larger space this past summer. Children ages 8 and under can explore a variety of hands-on exhibits – a farm, steamboat, and the Wegmans Market Café, to name a few. Where: 100 North St., Suite 2, Auburn. More information: playspaceabc.com.

SKY ZONE Children and teens can bounce off the walls, literally, at this indoor trampoline park. Sky Zone’s other attractions include SkySlam, ultimate dodgeball, a ninja warrior course, and, its newest addition, the Sky Tower. Where: 3179 Erie Blvd E., Syracuse. More information: skyzone.com/syracuse.

THE WARRIOR FACTORY SYRACUSE Are you a fan of American Ninja Warrior? During the gym’s open play sessions, families can try obstacles from the popular TV show, including a spider climb, rings, and warped walls. Just don’t forget a pair of sneakers! Where: 170 Township Blvd, Suite 20, Camillus. More information: syracuse.thewarriorfactory.com.

ISTOCK PHOTO

WONDERWORKS WonderWorks houses to more than 100 science-themed exhibits, covering topics such as extreme weather, space, and light and sound. Children can also visit the laser tag arena or take on swinging steps and a tremor bridge on the Canyon Climb, a three-level ropes challenge course. Where: Destiny USA, 9090 Destiny USA Drive, Syracuse. More information: wonderworksonline.com/destiny.

FAMILY TIMES JANUARY 2022

January

Please note: This calendar was up-to-date at

the time of publication. Please call the sponsoring organization’s phone number or visit the website to confirm event details.

SATURDAY, JAN. 1 NEW YEAR’S DAY

Nikon Small World. 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; through

Jan. 30. View the work of photomicrographers from a variety of scientific disciplines. Museum of Science and Technology (MOST), 500 S. Franklin St., Armory Square, Syracuse. Included with admission: $12/adults; $10/children ages 2-11; $10/seniors (65+); free/under 12. (315) 425-9068. most.org.

Disney on Ice. noon & 4 p.m.; also Jan. 2.

Characters from a variety of Disney films – including Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck and Goofy, as well as characters from Moana, Frozen, and Fantasia – appear in Disney On Ice presents Mickey and Friends. Upstate Medical University Arena at the Oncenter War Memorial, 515 Montgomery St., Syracuse. $15-$85 (plus fees). (315) 435-2121. disneyonice.com.

CALENDAR

Try Snowshoeing. 12:30 p.m.; Saturdays &

Sundays, through Feb. 27. In this snowshoe clinic, participants will receive instructions and go on a short hike. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. $5/person. Call the day of the hike to register and check conditions: (315) 638-2519.

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

Jan. 14. Drive through the annual light extravaganza featuring two miles of life-size displays, themed sections, and a grand finale. Onondaga Lake Park, Onondaga Lake Parkway, Liverpool. $6/car, Monday and Tuesday; $10/car, Wednesday and Thursday; $20/car, Friday-Sunday. Tickets must be purchased in advance: lightsonthelake.com.

TUESDAY, JAN. 4 Homeschool Hangout. 1:30-2:30 p.m. Families can get together for games, crafts, and activities. This year, there will be two sessions: one for all ages, and one for tweens ages 10-13. Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool. Free. Registration required: (315) 457-0310. lpl.org.

Teen Tuesday. 4-5 p.m.; repeats every Tuesday through Jan. 25. Teens in grades 6-8 can take part in a different activity each week. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free. Registration required: (315) 637-6374. fflib.org.

Paracord Bracelet Craft for Teens. 4-6 p.m.

SUNDAY, JAN. 2 Disney on Ice. noon & 4 p.m. See Jan. 1 listing.

MONDAY, JAN. 3 See Ongoing Events

Tweens and teens can create their own paracord bracelet – and learn about some ways they can use it. NOPL Brewerton, 5440 Bennett St., Brewerton. Free. Registration required: (315) 676-7484. nopl. org/events.

Winter Storytime. 6:30-7 p.m. Attendees can

enjoy stories about winter and make their own snowflake craft. NOPL North Syracuse, 100 Trolley Barn Lane, North Syracuse. Free. (315) 458-6184. nopl.org

ISTOCK ILLUSTRATION

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 5 Weekday Snowshoe Jaunt. 1 p.m.;

Wednesdays, through Feb. 16. Take a walk around the grounds of Beaver Lake Nature Center. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. Free with nature center admission ($5/vehicle). Registration required the day of the event: (315) 638-2519.

Breakout Escape Room. 4:15-5 p.m. Children in grades 2-5 must solve puzzles and riddles to “break out” before time expires. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free. Registration required: (315) 637-6374. fflib.org.

Family Trivia Night. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Teams of

six or less can answer questions about pop culture during this virtual event. Community Library of DeWitt and Jamesville, 5110 Jamesville Road, Jamesville. Free. Registration required: (315) 4463578. CLDandJ.org.

THURSDAY, JAN. 6 ONLINE: Textiles for Kids. 4-5 p.m.; repeats

every Thursday through Jan. 27. Each week, children in grades K-4 can learn about textiles – and how to make them. Community Library of DeWitt and Jamesville, 5110 Jamesville Road, Jamesville. Free. Registration required: (315) 446-3578. CLDandJ.org.

Pipe Cleaner and Bead Crafts. 4:15-5 p.m.

Children in grades PreK-2 can use pipe cleaners and beads to make a craft. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free. Registration required: (315) 637-6374. fflib.org.

Narwhal & Jelly Fan Club. 2-3 p.m. Children in

grades K-2 can play games, create a themed craft, and more. Onondaga Free Library, 4840 W. Seneca Turnpike, Syracuse. Free. Registration required: (315) 492-1727. oflibrary.org.

SUNDAY, JAN. 9 See Ongoing Events

MONDAY, JAN. 10 Pokémon. 6-7 p.m.; also Jan. 24. Children in

grades 2-5, of all experience levels, can play Pokémon. Onondaga Free Library, 4840 W. Seneca Turnpike, Syracuse. Free. Registration required: (315) 492-1727. oflibrary.org.

Pregnancy Mental Health (Virtual). 6-7:30

p.m. Attendees can join Tracy Torelli, a licensed clinical social worker, and CNY Doula Connection for information about coping with new changes, anxiety surrounding having a new baby, and more. Free. Registration required: (315) 707-8097. cnydoulaconnection@gmail.com.

Chess Club. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Families can play

chess. NOPL Brewerton, 5440 Bennett St., Brewerton. Free. Registration required: (315) 6767484. nopl.org/events.

Homeschooling 101 for Parents. 7-8 p.m.

Parents of homeschoolers can learn about a new topic each month – January’s topic is avoiding burnout. A Zoom link is also available. Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool. Free. Registration required: (315) 457-0310. lpl.org.

FRIDAY, JAN. 7

TUESDAY, JAN. 11

See Ongoing Events

Homeschool STEAM Club. 1:30-2:30 p.m.

SATURDAY, JAN. 8 Harry Potter 20th Anniversary Celebration. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Celebrate the 20 th anniversary of the popular books and movies with a selfie station, break out room and more. There will also be a screening of Harry Potter and The Sorcerer’s Stone at 12:30 p.m. (registration is required for that event). Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool. Free. (315) 457-0310. lpl.org.

Homeschooling children ages 5-10 can learn about science, technology, engineering, art, and math through hands-on activities. Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool. Free. Registration required: (315) 457-0310. lpl.org.

Homeschool STEAM Club+. 1:30-2:30 p.m.

Homeschooling children ages 10-13 can learn about science, technology, engineering, art, and math through hands-on activities. Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool. Free. Registration required: (315) 457-0310. lpl.org.

Paws to Read. 10-11 a.m.; also Jan. 15, 22 &

29. Families can read to a friendly dog from Paws of CNY. Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool. Free. (315) 457-0310. lpl.org.

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

Kids Talking Hands with Miss. Windy.

Drop-in Winter Crafts. 4-7 p.m. Families can

10:30-11 a.m.; also Jan. 22. Join Miss. Windy for an introduction to sign language. There will be a new theme each session. Manlius Public Library, 1 Arkie Albanese Ave., Manlius. Free. Registration required: (315) 682-6400. manliuslibrary.org.

share their current projects. NOPL Cicero, 8686 Knowledge Lane, Cicero. Free. Registration required: (315) 699-2032. nopl.org/events.

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 12 Geometric Canvas Painting. 4:15-5 p.m.

Children in grades 2-5 can use paint and canvas to make fun designs. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free. Registration required: (315) 637-6374. fflib.org.

Spanish Lesson – Holidays in Spain. 6 p.m.

Attendees can learn about New Year traditions in Spain – and celebrate Three King’s Day. Fairmount Community Library, 406 Chapel Dr., Syracuse. Free. Registration required: (315) 487-8933. fairmountlibrary.org.

Teen Trends to Go. 6-7 p.m. Teens ages 13-19

can pick up a kit, then visit the library’s Facebook page to learn how to create a customized ceramic mug. Baldwinsville Public Library, 33 E. Genesee St., Baldwinsville. Free. Registration required: (315) 457-0310. bville.lib.ny.us.

THURSDAY, JAN. 13 Trail Tales. 1 p.m.; also Jan. 27. Children ages 3-5, accompanied by a caregiver, can hear two stories, and go on a themed hike. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. Free with nature center admission ($5/vehicle). (315) 638-2519.

Teen Game Hour. 4-5 p.m. Teens can play

Among Us, board games and more. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free. Registration required: (315) 637-6374. fflib.org.

Battle Bot Challenge. 4:15-5 p.m.; also Jan.

19. Children in grades PreK-2 can decorate a Dash Robot – and compete against other robots. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free. Registration required: (315) 6376374. fflib.org.

Moonlight Skiing and Snowshoeing. until 9

p.m.; daily through Jan. 17. Venture onto Beaver Lake’s 10 miles of trails (if the snow cover is adequate) lit by the moon. Bring a flashlight and a friend for safety. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. Free with nature center admission ($5/vehicle). (315) 638-2519.

ONLINE: STEAM Club Jr. 4-4:45 p.m.; repeats

every Tuesday through Jan. 25. During each session, children in grades K-4 can complete STEAM activities. This month’s themes are: Zoetrope Animation (Jan. 11); Snowman Slime (Jan. 18); and Crystalize Your Name (Jan. 25). Community Library of DeWitt and Jamesville, 5110 Jamesville Road, Jamesville. Free. Registration required: (315) 446-3578. CLDandJ.org.

Families can play board games, make crafts and more. Maxwell Memorial Library, 14 Genesee St., Camillus. Free. (315) 672-3661. maxwellmemoriallibrary.org.

Young Writers. 4:30-5:30 p.m. Teens can

create winter crafts, including a snowman ornament and tissue paper polar bears. NOPL North Syracuse, 100 Trolley Barn Lane, North Syracuse. Free. (315) 458-6184. nopl.org.

FRIDAY, JAN. 14 Guided Moonlight Snowshoe Hike. 7 p.m.;

also Jan. 15. Explore the woodlands and frozen marshes on snowshoes with a guide; space is limited. Program is only offered when conditions are acceptable. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. Free with nature center admission ($5/vehicle). Registration required the day of the hike: (315) 638-2519.

SATURDAY, JAN. 15 Create Your Own: Edible Hot Cocoa Slime. 10-10:15 a.m. Attendees can create edible hot cocoa slime. Manlius Public Library, 1 Arkie

FAMILY TIMES JANUARY 2022

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

A Fairy Good Time. 2-3 p.m. Children in grades K-3 can make a magical wand, fairy jar, and fairy door. Onondaga Free Library, 4840 W. Seneca Turnpike, Syracuse. Free. Registration required: (315) 492-1727. oflibrary.org.

Nature Club. 2-3 p.m. Attendees can learn about

animal tracks – then try to find some. This session will also include a craft. Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool. Free. Registration required: (315) 457-0310. lpl.org.

SUNDAY, JAN. 16 See Ongoing Events

MONDAY, JAN. 17

MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY DIY Book Nook for Teens. 9:30 a.m.-8 p.m.

Teens can drop in and create their own bookshaped placeholder – or take the materials home. NOPL Brewerton, 5440 Bennett St., Brewerton. Free. (315) 676-7484. nopl.org.

Style for Your Snowman Drop-In Craft.

9:30 a.m.-8 p.m. Stop by during the library’s hours to create some accessories for your next snowman. NOPL Brewerton, 5440 Bennett St., Brewerton. Free. (315) 676-7484. nopl.org.

Martin Luther King Jr. Storytime. 2-3 p.m.

Attendees can read about Martin Luther King Jr. and other important people who contributed to the Civil Rights movement. NOPL North Syracuse, 100 Trolley Barn Lane, North Syracuse. Free. (315) 458-6184. nopl.org.

TUESDAY, JAN. 18 Teen Craft: Washer Necklaces and Bracelets. 4-5 p.m. Teens can learn how to create a necklace or bracelet – or both. NOPL Cicero, 8686 Knowledge Lane, Cicero. Free. Registration required: (315) 699-2032. nopl.org/events.

Change Sings Storytime. 6-7 p.m. Attendees

can read the new picture book by Amanda Gorman. NOPL North Syracuse, 100 Trolley Barn Lane, North Syracuse. Free. (315) 458-6184. nopl.org.

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 19 Zoom Farm. 10 a.m.; also Jan. 26. Children can

learn about animal health care, nutrition and more during a Zoom tour of Old McDonald’s Farm. Fairmount Community Library, 406 Chapel Dr., Syracuse. Free. Registration required: (315) 4878933. fairmountlibrary.org.

THURSDAY, JAN. 20

THURSDAY, JAN. 27

Teen Mindfulness Matters: Creating a Joy Space. 7-8 p.m. Attendees in grades 5 and

STEAM: Intro to Coding. 4-5 p.m. Attendees

up can learn how create a space to support their well-being. This session will also include a craft – a mini Zen garden. Onondaga Free Library, 4840 W. Seneca Turnpike, Syracuse. Free. Registration required: oflibrary.org. (315) 492-1727.

can build a catapult, learn how to make frost, and more. NOPL Cicero, 8686 Knowledge Lane, Cicero. Free. Registration required: (315) 699-2032. nopl.org/events.

CALENDAR

Sandpaper Printing. 4:15-5 p.m. Children in

See Ongoing Events

grades PreK-2 can use Crayons, sandpaper, and fabric to create fabric prints. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free. Registration required: (315) 637-6374. fflib.org.

SATURDAY, JAN. 22

After School STEM. 4:30. Join Miss Patience

FRIDAY, JAN. 21

Winter Living Celebration. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. This annual festival features crafts for children, horsedrawn sleigh rides, sled dogs, and more. Rogers Environmental Education Center, 2721 NY-80, Sherburne. Free. (607) 674-4733. friendsofrogers. org.

SUNDAY, JAN. 23 See Ongoing Events

MONDAY, JAN. 24

for fun STEM activities. Recommended for children ages 4-8. Fairmount Community Library, 406 Chapel Dr., Syracuse. Free. Registration required: (315) 487-8933. fairmountlibrary.org.

FRIDAY, JAN. 28 See Ongoing Events

SATURDAY, JAN. 29 Create Your Own: Colorful Snow Paint.

See Ongoing Events

10-10:15 a.m. Attendees can create colorful snow paint. Manlius Public Library, 1 Arkie Albanese Ave., Manlius. Free. (315) 682-6400. manliuslibrary.org.

TUESDAY, JAN. 25

Be the Scientist. 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Explore the

Teens Reading Club. 4-5 p.m. January’s book

is One of Us is Lying by Karen M. McManus. NOPL Cicero, 8686 Knowledge Lane, Cicero. Free. Registration required: (315) 699-2032. nopl.org/ events.

Hot Chocolate Bombs for Teens. 6-7 p.m.

Teens in grades 7-12 can create their own hot chocolate bombs. NOPL North Syracuse, 100 Trolley Barn Lane, North Syracuse. Free. Registration required: (315) 458-6184. nopl.org/events.

Let’s Create! Unpredictable Art. 7-8 p.m.

activities of a robotics engineer. Museum of Science and Technology (MOST), 500 S. Franklin St., Armory Square, Syracuse. Included with admission: $12/adults; $10/children ages 2-11; $10/seniors (65+); free/under 12. (315) 425-9068. most.org.

SUNDAY, JAN. 30 See Ongoing Events

MONDAY, JAN. 31 Family Table Top Game Night. 5-8 p.m.

Children ages 3 and up can create process art. Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool. Free. Registration required: (315) 457-0310. lpl.org.

Families can play a variety of board games. NOPL Brewerton, 5440 Bennett St., Brewerton. Free. Registration required: (315) 676-7484. nopl.org/ events.

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 26

ONGOING EVENTS

Paper Plate Animal Crafts. 3:30-4:30 p.m.

Central Library Storytimes. Children’s Story

Kahoot Trivia Challenge. 4:15-5 p.m. Children

Community Library of DeWitt and Jamesville Storytimes. ONLINE: Pajama

Families can make their favorite animal using a paper plate, paint and more. NOPL Cicero, 8686 Knowledge Lane, Cicero. Free. Registration required: (315) 699-2032. nopl.org/events.

in grades 2-5 can play Kahoot trivia. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free. Registration required: (315) 637-6374. fflib.org.

Teen Trends to Go. 6-7 p.m. Teens ages 13-19 Snowman STEAM. 3:30-4:30 p.m. Attendees

in grades 5 and up can learn about coding through hands-on activities. Onondaga Free Library, 4840 W. Seneca Turnpike, Syracuse. Free. Registration required: (315) 492-1727. oflibrary.org.

can pick up a kit, then visit the library’s Facebook page to learn how to create a resin lightbulb nightlight. Baldwinsville Public Library, 33 E. Genesee St., Baldwinsville. Free. Registration required: (315) 457-0310. bville.lib.ny.us.

Time, Wednesdays, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Central Library, 447 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Free. (315) 4351900. onlib.org.

Storytime: Tuesdays, 6:30-7:30 p.m. ONLINE: Storytime with Miss Briana: Wednesdays, 10:30-11a.m. Community Library of DeWitt and Jamesville, 5110 Jamesville Road, Jamesville. Free. Registration required: (315) 446-3578. CLDandJ. org.

Fairmount Community Library Storytimes. Family Storytime: Tuesdays, 10 a.m. Music is Magic, Thursdays, 10 a.m. Fairmount Community Library,

406 Chapel Dr., Syracuse. Free. Registration required: (315) 487-8933. fairmountlibrary.org.

Fayetteville Free Library Storytimes. Family Storytime: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10-10:30 a.m. Music & Movement: Wednesdays, 10-10:30 a.m. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free. Registration required: (315) 6376374. fflib.org.

Liverpool Public Library Storytimes.

Preschool Storytime (ages 2-5): Wednesdays and Thursdays, 10-10:30 a.m. Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool. Free. Registration required: (315) 457-0310. lpl.org.

Manlius Public Library Storytimes. Jigglebugs Live: Mondays, 10-10:30 a.m. Virtual Toddler Storytime: Tuesdays, 10-10:30 a.m. Family Story Time with Miss Karen: Wednesdays, 10-10:30 a.m. Virtual Pajama Storytime: Wednesdays, 7-7:30 p.m. Virtual Preschool Storytime: Thursdays, 10-10:30 a.m. Manlius Public Library, 1 Arkie Albanese Ave., Manlius. Free. (315) 682-6400. manliuslibrary.org.

Maxwell Memorial Library Storytimes.

Storytots Story Time (ages 0-3): Mondays (except Jan. 17), 10:30-11:15 a.m. Preschool Pals (ages 3-5): Thursdays, 10:30-11:15 a.m. Maxwell Memorial Library, 14 Genesee St., Camillus. Free. Registration required: (315) 672-3661. maxwellmemoriallibrary.org.

NOPL Cicero Storytimes. Family Storytime: Thursdays, 10-10:30 a.m. NOPL Cicero, 8686 Knowledge Lane, Cicero. Free. Registration required: (315) 699-2032. nopl.org/events.

NOPL North Syracuse Storytimes.

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

Regional Market Farmers’ Market. Saturdays, 7 a.m.-2 p.m. (year-round); Thursdays, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. (May through November only). Shop seasonal produce, meat, fish, poultry, eggs, specialty foods and more on display throughout covered sheds; heated shops of Regional Market Commons feature gift and unique items including jewelry, paintings, and home decor. Also, flea market, Sundays, 7 a.m.3 p.m. 2100 Park St., Syracuse. (315) 422-8647.

NATIONAL DAYS JANUARY Jan. 1: National Play Outside Day Jan. 4: National Spaghetti Day Jan. 13: National Sticker Day Jan. 18: National Thesaurus Day Jan. 19: National Popcorn Day Jan. 23: National Handwriting Day Jan. 25: National Opposite Day

TURN TO PAGE 20 FOR MORE ONGOING WINTER ACTIVITIES

Jan. 29: National Puzzle Day Jan. 31: National Hot Chocolate Day Source: nationaldaycalendar.com.

’ S T N PARE N

T U O IGHT

THURSDAY, JAN. 6 The Everson Behind the Artist Film Series.

6:30-8 p.m. During the first Thursday of each month, the Everson Museum of Art will explore the lives of artists from around the world through documentaries, biopics, and short films. January’s film is Boom For Real: The Teenage Years of Jean-Michel Basquiat. Everson Museum of Art, 401 Harrison St., Syracuse. Included with admission: $8/adults; $6/ seniors (65+). (315) 474 6064. everson.org.

SATURDAY, JAN. 15 Syracuse Crunch Hockey. 7 p.m. Watch as

the city’s AHL team takes on the Utica Comets.

Upstate Medical University Arena, 800 S. State St., Syracuse. $20-$27. (315) 473-4444. syracusecrunch.com.

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 19

ture performances of George Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue and his Second Rhapsody by pianist Natasha Paremski. Crouse Hinds Theatre, 421 Montgomery St., Syracuse. $20-$90 (plus fees). (315) 299-5598. experiencesymphoria.org.

Yoga Play. 7:30 p.m.; through Feb. 6. Watch as

Syracuse Stage recreates this comedy by Dipika Guha. Syracuse Stage, 820 E. Genesee St., Syracuse. $20-$55 (plus fees). (315) 443-3275. syracusestage. org.

SATURDAY, JAN. 22

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Toast of the Town. 7:30 p.m. This event will fea-

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