Winter Guide 2011-12

WHERE TO GO, WHAT TO DO. MAPS. CALENDAR OF EVENTS FREE

WinterGuide The Best of Upstate New York

2011 / 2012

cnywinter.com

WINTER GUIDE

1

2012 WARM UP OSWEGO FESTIVAL:

It’s so hot, it’s February 3-4, 2012 Downtown Oswego and the Oswego Y rmory YMCA Armory

Hot 2k Trot Walk/Run � Treasure Hunt in the Snow Crazy Costume Sled Race � Warm & Spicy Food � Downtown Hot Scavenger Hunt � Arts & Crafts � Bonfire at the Oswego Armory on Friday Night � Snow Sculpture Contest Awards at Bonfire Friday night at 6:00 p.m. YMCA Armory � Theater/Dance Performances at the Armory � Hot Spot Fiestas throughout Downtown on Friday and Saturday � After the Fireworks–Boots and Shorts at the Oswego Music Hall � Fireworks over the River on Saturday Feb 4 at 6:00 p.m. � �

Information Phone: 343-1981 Visit www.warmuposwego.com for times/details

IT’S

Highest annual snowfall east of

kies! find a bet the Roc t

s you e trail l i b o m With more than 360 miles of groomed snow

te

’ won

ce to r pla

UTDOORS! O T A E GR

t va ca

an in inter th w s i ion th

!

Events worth checking out in 2012!

Jan. 21: Vintage Snowsled Race, Sandy Creek Jan. 21: CNY Arts Center Snow Day, Fulton Feb. 3 - 4: Warm-Up Oswego Feb. 11 - 12: Great Eastern Whiteout, Fulton Feb. 11 - 12: Tug Hill Challenge Sled Dog Race, Boylston ®NYSDED

For trail and fishing reports, special events and visitor information: 1-800-248-4FUN (4386)

WWW.VISITOSWEGOCOUNTY.COM 2 2011 / 2012 WINTER GUIDE

County Oswego

2011 / 2012

WINTER GUIDE

3

2011 / 2012

Winter Guide

CONTENTS

Cabin Fever? 10 Ways to Cure it... 6 Things to Do With Your Kids... 8 Weather Forecast: Stormy, Icy, Snowy... 10 Holidays Around the World... 12 My Ice Fishing Adventures... 14 If You Can Walk, You Can Snowshoe... 16 A Walking Tour in Downtown Syracuse... 18 ✓ CALENDAR OF EVENTS... 23 ✓ SPECIAL REGIONAL MAP... 26-27 Time to Chill Out... 40 Bird Watching in the Winter... 41 Snow Sculpting 101... 42 Skijoring... 44 Winter Thrill: Go Dog Sledding... 46 Sleigh Rides, Old Time Charm... 48 Moonlit Fun... 50 4

2011 / 2012

WINTER GUIDE

Winter Guide CNY is published every year by Local News, Inc., which also publishes 55 PLUS magazine, Oswego County Business Magazine and In Good Health— CNY’s Healthcare Newspaper, among other publications. www.CNYwinter www.OswegoCountyBusiness.com Editor & Publisher: Wagner Dotto Associate Editor: Lou Sorendo Contributing Writers: Melissa Stefanec, Deborah Jeanne Sergeant, Mary Beth Roach Calendar of Events Editor: Deborah Jeanne Sergeant Advertising: Peggy Kain, Kathy DeMott, Richard Annal Design & Layout: Chris Crocker Office Manager: Laura Beckwith Proofreading: Shelley Manley Cover Photo: Paul Murphy (Oswego Lighthouse) © 2011 by Local News, Inc..

All rights reserved.

(315) 342–8020 P.O. Box 276 Oswego, NY 13126

Our Advertisers ATTRACTIONS

Long Lake & Raquette Lake .... 43 Town of Inlet ............................ 43 Vernon Down Casino Hotel ..... 21

AUTOMOTIVE

Burdick Ford ............................ 52 Carsons’s Car Mart.................. 24 Dick’s Auto Specialties ............ 31 Fucillo’s Auto Mall .................... 11 Ken’s Body Shop ..................... 25 Longley Dodge ........................ 29 Par-K Motors ........................... 13 Parker’s NAPA ......................... 35 Pullens Truck Center ............... 13 White’s Car Care ..................... 25

CAMPGROUND

Stoney’s Pineville Campground32

EDUCATION

Natl Tractor Trailer School ....... 21 SUNY Oswego ........................ 13

FESTIVAL

Warm Up Oswego ..................... 2

FINANCIAL

Computer Accounting Service . 24 Empower Federal Credit Union 20 Oswego County Federal Credit Union ....................................... 13 Met Life .................................... 30

FOOD

Sharp’s Bulk Food ................... 22

1890 House Museum ............. 21 All Mixed Up ........................... 39 All Season Inn ........................ 25 Alton Coffee Cup ...................... 8 Associated Dental .................. 25 Beacon Inn ............................. 25 Brewerton Motel ..................... 37 Brown’s Village Inn ................. 12 Burdick Ford ........................... 52 Burger King ............................ 25 Carsons’s Car Mart................. 24 Century 21- Galloway ............. 24 City of Oswego ......................... 2 Computer Accounting ............. 24 Crossroads Inn & Cabins ....... 21 D.Arnold Overhead Door ........ 27 Deaton’s Home & Building...... 33 Dick’s Auto Specialties ........... 31 Dr. Frank Vinifera Wines......... 13 Driftwood Motel ...................... 34 Driveway Inn ........................... 26 Eddy’s Place ........................... 35

THE FOLLOWING ADVERTISERS HAVE MADE THIS BOOKLET POSSIBLE JDK Management/ Summit 2 Sea .......................... 19 Little Sodus Inn ........................ 12 Maplegrove B & B ................... 12 Oswego Inn ............................. 27 Quality Inn ............................... 39 The Roselea B & B .................. 39

GIFT AND SPECIALTIES

All Mixed Up ............................ 39 The Make Sense Shop ............ 32 Weedens Mini Mall .................. 19

HEALTH

MUSEUM

Associated Dental ................... 25 Oswego Health/Fulton Medical Center ...................................... 41

HEAT

Johnston’s Gas ........................ 30

HOME & BUILDING

JEWELERS

Labrador Mountain .................. 20

ORGANIZATION

Old Forge Sport Tours ............. 43

REAL ESTATE

Gardner The Train Doctor.......... 8 Nana Rose .............................. 39 Old Forge Hardware ................ 43 Sashes&Lace/OneHorse Open Sleigh ............................. 35

JP Jewelers ............................. 27

LIQUOR STORE

RECREATION

Four Seasons Golf and Ski ....... 9 Fulton Family YMCA................ 29 Lakeview Lanes ....................... 29 Onondaga Parks & Recreation .. 3 Women’s Health & Fitness ...... 35

LODGING

All Season Inn ......................... 25 Beacon Inn .............................. 25 Brewerton Motel ...................... 37 Brown’s Village Inn .................. 12 Crossroads Inn & Cabins ........ 21 Driftwood Motel ....................... 34

SKI RESORT

1890 House Museum .............. 21 H. Lee White Marine Museum ... 9 The MOST ............................... 19 Suggett House Museum .......... 19

Century 21- Galloway .............. 24 Simeon DeWitt ........................ 36

Paura’s Discount Liquor .......... 26 Pulaski Wine & Spirits ............. 34

SIGNS, SPECIALTIES

Letters Signs & Specialties ...... 22

Greater Mexico C of C. ............ 15 Novelis ..................................... 51 Oswego County Tourism ........... 2

D.Arnold Overhead Door ......... 27 Deaton’s Home & Building....... 33 Yager’s Plumbing & Heating .... 30

Grist Mill................................... 37 Good Golly’s ............................ 37 Mimi’s Drive-In ......................... 26 Mom & Pops Eatery ................ 27 Mr. Sub .................................... 34 RiverHouse Restaurant ........... 31 Sandy Pond Steakhouse ......... 13 The Bake Shop Eatery ............ 37

PLACES TO EAT

Alton Coffee Cup ....................... 8 Burger King ............................. 25 Driveway Inn ............................ 26 Eddy’s Place ............................ 35

SNOWMOBILING

SPECIALTY SHOP

THRIFT STORE

Friendship Thrift Shop ............. 22 Santa’s Redemption Center ... 26

WINERIES

Dr. Frank Vinifera Wine Cellars 13

WOOD PRODUCTS

Lakeshore Hardwoods ............ 33

Advertisers by Alphabetical Order Pulaski Wine & Spirits ............ 34 Empower FCU ........................ 20 Four Seasons Golf and Ski ...... 9 Friendship Thrift Shop ............ 22 Fucillo’s Auto Mall ................... 11 Fulton Family YMCA............... 29 Gardner The Train Doctor......... 8 Good Golly’s ........................... 37 Mexico Chamber of Com. ....... 15 Grist Mill.................................. 37 H. Lee White Marine Museum .. 9 Healthworks Women’s Fitness 35 JDK Management/ Summit 2 Sea ......................... 19 Johnston’s Gas ....................... 30 JP Jewelers ............................ 27 Ken’s Body Shop .................... 25 Labrador Mountain ................. 20 Lakeshore Hardwoods ........... 33 Lakeview Lanes ...................... 29 Letters Signs & Specialties ..... 22 Little Sodus Inn ....................... 12

Long Lake & Raquette Lake ... 43 Longley Dodge ....................... 29 Maplegrove B & B .................. 12 Met Life ................................... 30 Mimi’s Drive-In ........................ 26 Mom & Pops Eatery ............... 27 Mr. Sub ................................... 34 Nana Rose ............................. 39 Novelis .................................... 51 Natl Tractor Trailer School ...... 21 Old Forge Hardware ............... 43 Old Forge Sport Tours ............ 43 Onondaga Parks & Rec ............ 3 Oswego County FCU ............. 13 Oswego County Tourism .......... 2 Oswego Health/Fulton Medical Center ....................... 41 Oswego Inn ............................ 27 Par-K Motors .......................... 13 Parker’s NAPA ........................ 35 Paura’s Discount Liquor ......... 26

Pullens Truck Center .............. 13 Quality Inn .............................. 39 RiverHouse Restaurant .......... 31 Sandy Pond Steakhouse ........ 13 Santa’s Redemption Center ... 26 Sashes & Lace - OneHorse Open Sleigh ............................ 35 Sharp’s Bulk Food .................. 22 Simeon DeWitt ....................... 36 Stoney’s Pineville Camp ......... 32 Suggett House Museum ......... 19 SUNY Oswego ...................... 13 The Bake Shop Eatery ........... 37 The Make Sense Shop ........... 32 The MOST .............................. 19 The Roselea B & B ................. 39 Town of Inlet ........................... 43 Vernon Down Casino Hotel .... 21 Weedens Mini Mall ................. 19 White’s Car Care .................... 25 Yager’s Plumbing & Heating ... 30

CNYWINTER.COM 2011 / 2012

WINTER GUIDE

5

Cabin Fever? W Here Are Some Suggestions for its Cure

By Melissa Stefanec

6

2011 / 2012

WINTER GUIDE

inter is a beautiful and busy time, but after the holidays things start to settle down and many of us start getting restless.

Next time you ďŹ nd yourself snowed in and with a case of cabin fever, check out this list of things to do to beat the boredom.

Unplug This may seem counterintuitive when you’re bored, but unplugging the computer, television and smart phone

is so freeing. What better time is there to unplug than on a snow day. Make yourself unreachable and enjoy.

Play in the snow like you’re 8 years old again Remember how much fun building snowmen and snow forts used to be?

Guess what, it still is. Bundle up and head out for some building or a snowball.

When you come back in, warm up like you’re a kid with a cup of hot cocoa (and sneak in a shot of cream liquor like you’re an adult).

Blow the dust off your board games With so many computer and video games, playing board games is a nostalgic change of pace. Have a tournament of your favorite game. Make some friendly bets. Time will fly by.

Create something Get crafty, write down some thoughts, redecorate a room or do something silly. There is a great satisfaction in creating something and having a tangible end product to show for your work.

Clean out the cupboards and cook something with what you find Or if you don’t feel like cooking, start up a box for the local food pantry. Depending on what you find you may not need to grocery shop next week, meaning this task could score you some extra cash.

List unwanted items on Internet sites

Reinvent the lost art of conversation

People really do like to get local deals on gently used stuff. Find the stuff around the house you no longer use and set up some auctions or listings.

Remember the last time you had a few moments to sit around and shoot the breeze and catch up? Don’t feel bad, most of us can’t either. Talk in person or pick up the phone to bond and recall the good times.

Look through old photo albums or computer files

Take up a longignored hobby

Winter days are a great time for nostalgia. Pictures are a great way to recall the good times and lift your spirits.

We all have one. That thing we used to love doing that eventually fell by the wayside. Rekindle a former passion and it may seem new again. If it doesn’t, take this chance to do some housekeeping and clear out the stuff associated with it.

Do nothing Most of us are so busy that we rarely have time to do nothing and decompress.

Take a nap. Have a snack. Take another nap. Just take some time to breathe.

Read a book you read 10 years ago and haven’t read since Most of us have at least a couple of favorite books collecting dust on a shelf somewhere. Your favorites will be surprising and fresh again.

Get some nagging items off of your to-do list Maybe this isn’t fun or flashy, but crossing long-standing items off your to-do list feels darn good. Plus, a weight will be lifted off your shoulders when you actually leave the house for some real fun.

2011 / 2012

WINTER GUIDE

7

10 Things To Do With Kids This Winter From a trip to the MOST to playing in the snow, winter offers great opportunities to do thing with your kids

By Melissa Stefanec

W

inter can be a trying time for children. The electronic gadgets that run amok can only amuse children for so long. School vacations seem great to the kids for a bit, but then the inevitable social media post hits, “Sooooo bored.” Most people want to spend more time with the kids, but finding ways to fill that time can be challenging, especially during the winter months. Here are some ideas on what to do the next time you hear, “I’m so bored I could die.”

1. Look up a community calendar Almost every news station and webpage has one. On any given weekend, there is something going on that’s close to home and family friendly.

You just have to take a few minutes to find out what that is. Pay attention to

your TV news or get online and find out what’s on deck this week.

2. Hit the trails A sedentary lifestyle is pretty tempting during the winter months, but it zaps energy and gets boring. Central New York is a great place to be in the winter. You can’t beat the snow, so make friends with it. There are multi-use trails all over the region. Pick a groomed trail for a winter stroll or find a place that rents snowshoes or skis.

3. Play in the snow It’s tempting to bundle the kids up and send them out back while you get some chores done, but how much fun is that? Joining your kids for fun in the snow will change things up and make it

Your Hosts -

Chris & Ron Lucieer 5716 Route 14, Alton, NY 315-483-4852

FRIDAY NIGHT FISH FRY Homemade Soups & Desserts Daily!

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK Monday-Thursday & Saturday 6 am - 2 pm Friday 6 am - 8 pm • Sunday 7 am - 2 pm

8

2011 / 2012

WINTER GUIDE

exciting for both of you. You can make the snowman taller and throw a more accurate snowball, so amaze them and let everyone enjoy themselves.

4. Visit a family member or friend We all know someone whose life isn’t so hectic. That someone could probably use a little cheering up and some company. Bring the whole family along and visit someone who deserves it. Your day will be magically brightened when you shed some light on someone else’s. After all, one day you may be wishing for a visit and good deeds repay themselves.

5. Volunteer It’s easy to lose sight of others in today’s me-me-me society. We should all

Lionel • MTH • Weaver Buildings & Scenery Lionel Starter Sets for the Beginner • Operating Layout • • Lots of Know-How •

Gardner

“The Train Doctor”

P.O. Box 203 • 8967 Ridge Road Alton, NY 14413 • 483-6577

May–Aug. 9 am to 5:00 pm M-F / Sat. by Appt.

Sept.–April 9 am to 6 pm M-F / Sat. 10 am to 4 pm www.gardnerthetraindoctor.com

be contributing to the greater good and volunteering is a great way to do that.

Teach kids to give and be charitable by bringing them along as you set the example. You are instantly more thankful for what you have when you do work for those who have less.

6. Bake or cook If you don’t want to leave the house, roll up your sleeves and make something from scratch. Cooking is an important life skill to teach your kids.

You may not do much cooking during the week between soccer practice and dance classes, but when you have the time to cook for yourself and your family, do it.

7. Family game day We all have those games that were cast off into the closet right after Christmas. We spend so much time with media we sometimes forget how to entertain ourselves. Unplug and get out a deck of cards or a board game.

Reconnect over doing something as family.

8. Write your own children’s book and illustrate it This might seem a little ambitious,

The MOST on Armory Square, Syracuse, offers family entertainment.

Syracuse, the Children’s Museum in Utica and the Strong in Rochester, just to name a few.

but don’t make it that way. Take some sheets of construction paper and staple them together. Write about something that is important to your child. Switch off writing and illustrating. Make it goofy or serious. It doesn’t matter as long as you are having fun.

10. That one thing they always ask to do and you say no to

9. Go to a childfriendly museum

You know what it is. It’s that thing you’re sick and tired of hearing about.

It’s the thing you always shoot down.

If the request isn’t too expensive or extraordinary, make the day special and let it happen.

Ever get sick of picking up after your kids? Then bring them out to a child-friendly museum and let them do their worst (that’s what these places are there for). There’s the MOST in

Open Monday – Sunday, 1- 5 pm

Save the Date!

Titanic Affair A First Class Event

April 14, 2012 Tickets available

• Snowtubing • Snowboarding • Skiing • Learner’s Program

• New Adventure • All Kinds Mini Golf for 2012 of Parties • Practice Range • Golf Lessons • Chair Lift • Soccer and • Conveyor Lift for Tubing Batting Cages

www.fourseasonsgolfandski.com

End of West First Street Pier, Oswego 315-342-0480 hleewhitemarinemuseum.com 2011 / 2012

WINTER GUIDE

9

Stormy, Snowy, Icy: Rough Winter Expected for CNY

By Melissa Stefanec

P

ut an extra can of gasoline in the shed for the snow blower and make sure your car has an emergency kit.

Hunker down Central New York.

This winter is going to be a rough one.

This prediction comes from the Farmers’ Almanac, which in 2012 is marking the 195th edition of a publication that predicts winter weather for the United States and Canada.

The editor of the publication, Peter Geiger, talked with the CNY Winter

10

2011 / 2012

WINTER GUIDE

Guide to let us know what we are in for and share some suggestions on how to tolerate the rough winter ahead.

“It’s going to be a very active, busy and wet winter,” said Geiger. “With that being said, there will be ice as well as snow.”

The 2012 edition of the almanac is predicting above-average temperatures with lots of heavy snow. The warmer temperatures will make for plenty of days with everyone’s favorite winter feature: ‘wintery mix.’ This mix prom-

ises ice (as rain turns to sleet, sleet to snow and the cycle replays itself much to the chagrin of winter commuters and the elation of snow-day lovers).

It predicts this November will be fairly light on snow, but December will come roaring in to make up for it. There is a mild spot predicted in January.

If there are those of you out there who have been longing for a real winter, you wildest dreams should be fulfilled.

“It will be a genuinely real winter.

The big word is wet,” said Geiger.

The Farmers’ Almanac predicts weather using different methods than traditional meteorologists. A man under the pseudonym Caleb Weatherbee uses the same methods as the creator of the Farmers’ Almanac.

Weatherbee and his associates use a formula that takes into account the position of the planets, moon phases, tide action and sun spot activity. They are able to predict weather patterns two years in advance using this formula.

For all those doubters out there, last year the almanac’s predictions were pretty accurate. It predicted a kinder and gentler winter than the year before. It predicted average snow fall but also called for a bitterly cold and long winter.

2011 / 2012

WINTER GUIDE

11

Winter Holidays Around the World E

By Melissa Stefanec

ver wonder how people in other parts of the world celebrate their winter holidays? The CNY Winter Guide is here to share just a few of the holidays that are enjoyed by people outside the United States.

• Boxing Day — A public, secular holiday celebrated December 26. It’s observed in Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. It’s related to Saint Stephen’s Day (see second last item on this story). The holiday is a second day of Christmas that focuses on charitable giving. It’s also known as a shopping holiday that is comparable to

SNOWMOBILERS WELCOME COTTAGE RENTAL Daily • Weekly • Fully Furnished 14452 Stafford Street • Fair Haven, NY

(315) 947-5817

Email: hbrown7@twcny.rr.com

LITTLE SODUS INN on the Bay

Mary Williams • Prop.

• Snowmobilers Welcome • Fully Furnished Cottages (1 lg - 2 sm) • Dock Rentals • Waterfront Tables • Kitchen Open Daily til 9 pm

Bell Ave. • Fair Haven, NY

947-9944 or 947-5271 12

2011 / 2012

WINTER GUIDE

“Black Friday” in the US. • D’ngzhì Festival — A winter solstice festival celebrated in China, Taiwan and other East Asian places.

This holiday is related to the yin and yang idea of balance and harmony. The winter solstice is the shortest day of the year and the sunlight is the weakest on this day. The holiday is a family one and rice balls are often made. The balls are used in sweet, savory or alcoholic soups. Dumplings are also commonly made.

• Hogmanay — A Scottish holiday celebrated Dec. 31. The celebration continues into Jan. 1 and Jan. 2. One of the most popular customs of Hogmanay is first-footing. The idea is to be the first person to cross the threshold of a loved one’s home. The visitor brings a gift (typically food) and the custom is supposed to bring good luck. The poem ‘Auld Lang Syne’ by Scot Robert Burns was born from this holiday and is now sung around the world.

• Jul — The Danish equivalent of Christmas. The holiday is celebrated throughout December. The main day of celebration is Dec. 24, which falls before the two Danish Christmases on Dec. 24 and Dec. 25. Much food is

MAPLEGROVE BED & BREAKFAST Snowmobmileers Welco Easy Access via Trails Evenings: Serving Hot Soup & Drinks

www.lakeontario.net/maplegrove email: maplegrove.bb@frontiernet.net 1275 St. Rt. 104A, Sterling • (315) 947-5408

consumed on this holiday, including risalamande, which is a cold rice pudding with hot cherry sauce and a hidden almond. People exchange gifts around a juletrae (Christmas tree). People also go to church on this holiday.

• Old New Year — Also known as the orthodox New Year. This traditional Slavic Orthodox holiday is celebrated as the start of the New Year. The holiday typically happens in mid January. It’s celebrated in Russia, Serbia and other countries bordering Russia. It’s a quieter holiday focused on family and food.

Many people in these countries also celebrate the traditional (New) New Year Jan. 1.

• Seollal — The Korean New Year.

This holiday is celebrated on the first day of the lunar calendar and this year’s will fall on Feb. 3. The holiday lasts for three days. The holiday typically falls on the second new moon after winter solstice. It’s a family-oriented holiday and people return home to honor their family members. A bowing ceremony called Sebae is held where younger people honor their elders.

• Saint Stephen’s Day — Also called the Feast of Saint Stephen. This holiday is a Christian saint’s day typically celebrated at the end of December or the beginning of January. Saint Stephen was the first Christian martyr. Some of the countries that celebrate the holiday are Austria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Ireland, Serbia, Sweden and Poland.

• Wren Day — Also known as Hunt the Wren Day or the Hunting of the Wrens. This holiday is celebrated Dec. 26 in Ireland, Wales and Newfoundland and coincides with Saint Stephen’s Day. In modern celebrations people hunt a fake bird and set it atop a decorated pole.

Young people then dress up in costume and dance around the pole.

Show You Care with a View Our Entire Custom Detail Inventory at Gift Certificate $9900 www.par-k.com Ask for Detail Promotion

Chrysler • Jeep

We Service ALL Makes & Models!

Just minutes from Great Northern Mall!

Sandy Pond Steakhouse Resort & Marina

Boat Launch • Rooms Overlooking Beautiful Sandy Pond

Specializing in Fresh Cut Steaks 45 Wigwam Drive, on Sandy Pond 315-387-3001

New York’s Most Award-Winning Winery Established 1962 www.drfrankwines.com 800.320.0735 9749 Middle Road Hammondsport, NY 14840 Look for us!

“Four Star Rating”

www.sandypondsteakhouse.com • Check Us Out on

Is it time to go back to school?

Offering courses in Oswego, Phoenix, Syracuse, and online.

Part-Time Degree Programs: Accounting, Business Administration, Public Justice, and Minor in Economics.

Online Degree Programs: Broadcasting and Mass Communication, Public Justice, MBA, and Vocational Teacher Preparation.

Division of Extended Learning 315.312.2270 extlearn@oswego.edu www.oswego.edu/parttime

Hugh Johnson’s Wine Book 2012

Say ye db Goo Bank To es Fe

Earn

3.25% Rebate

on Your Average Daily Balance* Enroll in Rebate Checking from Oswego County Federal Credit Union, and start earning your rebate today!

You’ll receive your rebate either in cash or in gift cards for some of your favorite stores—your choice.

Here are the requirements: �� Complete 15 Debit Card Transactions a Month �� Make 1 Direct Deposit per Month (Min. $500) �� Sign up to Receive Monthly E-Statements �� Enroll in OCFCU Online Banking Visit your nearest Oswego County Federal Credit Union for complete details.

What will you do with your rebate? *Rebate will be paid on a maximum average daily balance of $20,000.

300 W. 1st St. Oswego 326-0138

175 E. 7th St. Oswego 343-7822

5828 Scenic Ave. (Route 3), Mexico 963-2722

2011 / 2012

www.oswegofcu.org

WINTER GUIDE

13

My Ice Fishing Adventures ‘I remember my first trip on the ice with a group of my dad’s friends.

I was shocked to find that ice fishing was essentially a tailgate party, but on the ice instead of concrete’

By Brandon Smith

T

he first time I went ice fishing, I have to admit I was worried.

The idea of having only a few inches of ice between me and hypothermia or even death, seemed like a lot of risk to catch a few fish.

It turns out, with the right equipment and a good friend, you might catch fish without ever catching a cold.

Ice fishing isn’t as dangerous as it sounds, assuming you take the proper precautions.

Two to three inches of ice are necessary for traveling by foot on ice, according to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC).

Personally, I wait until word travels that my intended destination has at least six inches of solid ice, the same that is necessary to hold a snowmobile.

Ice thickness, for a variety of Central New York fisheries, is printed in local newspapers and websites. The information is very easy to find.

Also beware of ice near running water and where slush is built up on the surface of the ice. Slush is a sign of melting and running water causes the surrounding ice to be thin.

Once the ice is thick enough for your comfort zone, go out with a friend who already has some experience.

They’ll most likely have any equipment you would need to use and can show you the basics pretty quickly.

I remember my first trip on the ice

14

2011 / 2012

WINTER GUIDE

with a group of my dad’s friends. I was shocked to find that it was essentially a tailgate party, but on the ice instead of concrete. There were charcoal grills with bratwurst and chickens sizzling, cans of cheap beer nearly frozen to the ground and a complete lack of sophistication in every conversation.

The fishermen are the visiting team, and the fish are defending their home turf. My first game on the ice was an astounding loss for the home

team, with yellow perch strewn across the ice in defeat.

Before my first ice fishing trip, I had been pretty stuck on fly fishing for large, trophy fish and had been really moving away from your everyday, catchwhatever-bites leisure fishing.

Much to my surprise, it’s actually really fun to bring a perch, bluegill or crappie through the ice. On a rod Continued on page 16

Welcome to

MEXICO, NEW YORK Mother of Towns A Great Place to Live, Work & Play

I

www.mexicony.net Visit Us on Facebook

t’s fall: the apple harvest is well under way, fall colors are beginning to fade, corn stalks have been gathered with bright orange pumpkins at their feet, and there’s a cool freshness in the breeze. With memories still bright of summer fun, it’s time to think about the many outstanding winter-time opportunities Mexico has to offer. The exciting winter months’ activities include cross-country skiing, ice fishing, hunting and snowmobiling. And highlighting the holiday season is Christmas in Mexico, a day long, village-wide event, including a parade followed by the lighting of the village Christmas tree, and a visit with Santa for the kids! Church bazaars, specials offered by local merchants, horse-drawn carriage rides, caroling and friends of Bob Cratchitt wandering the village in period costume round out a not-to-be-missed event!

No matter the season, there’s a lot going on in Mexico!

Christmas in Mexico December 3 & 4, 2011 Sat. 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Sun. 3 – 7p.m.

Church Bazaars, Caroling, Friends of Bob Cratchitt, Parade & Visit with Santa Shoppers Specials Horse-Drawn Wagon Taxi Much, much more!

Sunday Christmas Concert Visit us on

For Information or Reservations Call (315) 963-7310 118 Chase Drive, PO Box 218 New Haven, NY 13121 E-mail: catchfish@catfishcreek.com Visit our Web site: www.catfishcreek.com

dba

Hollister Agency Home • Auto • Business • Health A Partnership You Can Trust For All Your Insurance Needs.

3382 Main St | Mexico, NY 13114 315-963-7263 www.insureit.com

Friends of Mexico Point Park, Inc. Stewards of Casey’s Cottage and Mexico Point Park 120 Mexico Point Drive West PO Box 326 Mexico, NY 13114 315-963-7657 315-963-3891 www.mexicony.net or www.howardsplace.net/manorhouse

The Mexico Historial Society

Lodging with Docking Boat Launch Charters

DISCOVER TROPHY TROUT & SALMON

3278 Main Street, PO Box 838 Mexico, NY 13114 800-378-9645 • 315-963-8390 M-F 9:30-5:30 • Sat 9:30-3:30

SEAMLESS GUTTERS INC.

South Jefferson Street Mexico, NY 13114

Town Historian 315-963-7034

PO Box 43 Mexico, NY 13114

Fully Insured • Free Estimates

www.mexicony.com

Ph: 315-963-4989 Cell: 315-440-8830 www.jchgutters.com 2011 / 2012

WINTER GUIDE

15

Ice Fishing Continued from page 14

that’s barely 12 inches long and with a reel spooled with two-pound test, even the smallest fish has some real fight to it. If you get really lucky and get into a walleye or a northern pike, get ready for some excitement.

After the first trip, I bought myself a few cheap ice rods, a basic handauger to drill holes, a bucket to hold minnows and sit on, a variety of jigs and lures, and a sled to pull it all around.

Upon my wife’s insistence, I also purchased safety picks. Safety picks are a pair of ice picks that interlock into an elastic necklace, but in a moment’s notice can be unfastened and used to pick yourself out of a sudden ice fallthrough. I have never needed them, but you can’t be too careful.

Cocky from my first win, I visited my next destination alone and expected another lopsided victory.

The result was zero fish caught and a pair of very cold hands. I quickly realized that you can ice fish without a heater, ice shelter or a partner. I just don’t want to.

An ice shelter is little more than an expensive, heavy-duty camping tent, yet its ability to insulate you from the wind is well worth the cost. Throw in a propane-fueled heater, and you’ll be shedding layers before you know it. Add up all that equipment that you’ll need to bring to the ice, spend time setting up and breaking down, and then factor in several hours you’d be spending alone sitting on a bucket, it’s much better to bring a friend along . Who wants to go to a one-man tailgate party anyway?

Ice fishing isn’t like casting a worm or a fly on a perfect, sunny day. You won’t get that “I-am-one-with-nature” moment, the one in which you don’t care if you ever get a nibble. Make your first trip a fun one with friends, and if you love it, invest in the right equipment so you can make each outing worthwhile.

Ice fishing is a social sport, meant to be shared by many as we pass the cold winter months together.

16

2011 / 2012

If You Can Walk, You Can Snowshoe Unlike many other forms of winter recreation, snowshoeing is fairly inexpensive. All you need is a pair of snowshoes, warm clothing and waterproof winter boots

By Melissa Stefanec

T

here’s a lot of snow in Central New York and if you live here, you learn to live with it.

Some of us even manage to make friends with it.

A lot of people ski for winter recreation, while others snowmobile, ice fish, snowboard or race sled dogs.

However, if you are more of the easy-going and quiet recreation type, there is a great option out there. You can snowshoe.

Snowshoeing is hardly a new idea; people have been doing it for thousands of years. Hunter and other winter travelers depended on snowshoes to get around in the snow.

Today’s snowshoes are revamped and more geared toward exercising against the backdrop of winter, although they still work the same way as the old wooden ones in your grandmother’s garage. Snowshoes distribute the weight of an individual over a larger area so the person is less likely to sink in the snow.

The shoes make it easier to walk over snow that hasn’t been packed down.

This means people in snowshoes can go off-roading through less traveled places in the woods.

Modern snowshoes have a boot binding that the wearer hooks the toe of a winter boot into while leaving his or her heel free. Almost any pair of rugged winter boots can be worn. Snowshoes are typically made of plastic and metal.

WINTER GUIDE

The bottom of the boot binding has teeth to grip the ice and snow.

The shoes come in varying sizes and typically the larger the person, the larger the shoe. Some people race in snowshoes.

A racing snowshoe is designed for running and is modified to be lighter and have a slim back. Recreational shoes are the most common and are geared toward moderate walking on trails. Mountaineering snowshoes are the largest shoes and are intended for hill-climbing and long distances.

Using a snowshoe is fairly simple.

You strap them securely on and start walking. The only tricky thing is turning around. You have to leave yourself ample space to turn around by walking in a circle. Turning and pivoting isn’t an easy option. Some people use poles when snowshoeing. A typical snowshoe pole has a blunt tip and the bottom, unlike a ski pole that has a spike. However, you can use any pole you are comfortable with to snowshoe or use no pole at all.

Unlike many other forms of winter recreation, snowshoeing is fairly inexpensive. All you need is a pair of snowshoes, warm clothing and waterproof winter boots. You can buy a carrying case for the shoes and poles, but there aren’t a lot of accessories when it comes to this sport.

Snowshoeing is similar to hiking.

It’s a chance to get outside and enjoy the peaceful winter scenery. Snowsho-

ers often encounter wildlife because the use of the shoes generates so little noise. Despite the sport’s low-key qualities, snowshoeing offers a great work out. According to livestrong.com, a 150-pound person will burn about 551 calories. That’s about 45 percent more calories burned than running or walking at an equivalent pace.

When looking for places to snowshoe, keep in mind that almost any place you would hike or walk during the summer can be used for snowshoeing in the winter. Check out state and county parks and nature centers. If you don’t have your own snowshoes, you can often rent them at nature centers.

Renting is an especially good idea for children since they will outgrow their snowshoes quickly.

There is one basic rule of thumb when heading out on the trails. If you are snowshoeing, stay of ski paths laid by cross country skiers. Stay where you see snowshoe prints and don’t ruin the skiers’ trails. Other than that, you are free to walk, decompress and enjoy the wonders of snowshoeing.

Moonlight Skiing & Snowshoeing at Beaver Lake Nature Center Follow through with your New Year’s resolution to get outside more and get in better shape. Beaver Lake Nature Center offers Moonlight Skiing & Snowshoeing when the trails are available for use until 9 p.m. in January and February.

The dates will be offered on the center’s website (http://onondagacountyparks. com/activities/winter-activities). Enjoy the gleam of moonlight on pristine snow, frosty air and the exhilaration of getting in touch with nature.

The Bog Trail is .6 mile (adding the Island Pathway adds .25 mile), Lakeview Trail is .3 miles and the Hemlock Hollow Trail is .4 mile. Beaver Lake does not rent equipment, so plan to bring your own. The Nature Center is open until 9 p.m. during Moonlight Skiing & Snowshoeing.

Admission is $3 per vehicle and $15 per bus. Dogs are not permitted.

2011 / 2012

WINTER GUIDE

17

A Walking Tour

in Downtown Syracuse Within a few blocks, visitors can check our great restaurants and shops, the MOST, the Erie Canal Museum and other attractions

By Mary Beth Roach

F

or those staying in the Central New York area this winter, there is still plenty of chances to get away without packing a lot of luggage, standing in lines at airports, rushing through terminals, or driving long distances.

One can travel back in time or journey to the stars without ever leaving downtown Syracuse.

From the Erie Canal Museum near City Hall to the Museum of Science and Technology (MOST) in Armory Square, there are a number of venues with a flurry of activities and sports for everyone to enjoy.

Nicholas Vaverchak, 9, of Syracuse at Dinomania exhibit

18

2011 / 2012

WINTER GUIDE

Upon entering the Erie Canal Museum, guests are invited to begin their self-guided tour on the first floor by watching a 12-minute video that offers an excellent overview of the canal, according to Natalie Stetson, director of development and marketing.

The museum building was once a weighlock in the days of the canal, where boats would come in, be weighed and then be assessed a toll, depending on the weight, the cargo and the distance which they were traveling. The canal in Syracuse was filled in the 1920s, and the museum building remained as a dry dock for awhile, then it became office space for some state engineers.

It became the site for the museum in 1962 and will celebrate its 50th anniversary next October.

A favorite among children visiting the museum, Stetson said, is a full-length replica of a line boat, which moved both cargo and passengers along the canal. An elevator and an staircase take visitors to the second floor, and both are exhibits in and off themselves. The elevator, with its walls painted to look like one is on a canal boat, offers an audio narrative as to how the Canal’s locks worked. At the base of the staircase is the Penny Postcard Arcade, showcasing various postcards of the canal and the surrounding downtown area from bygone eras. On the walls in the arcade are some samples of amusing messages found on these cards.

On the second level, the education galleries are designed to show what a canal town might have looked like, with displays of a tavern, general store, and a stage. Also on this floor is the Children’s Nook that houses a puppet

stage, books and puzzles, and a dress-up corner.

For more information on museum hours and other notes, check out www.eriecanalmuseum.org Two blocks west of the museum, one can ice skate where the canal waters used to flow through the center of Syracuse. During the holiday season, a Norway spruce tree, decked out in thousands of holiday lights, stands about 55 feet above the rink. Skate rentals and small lockers for personal items are available for nominal fees.

Check the city’s website at www.syracuse.ny.us/parks and click on the ice skating picture to get information on hours, rates, and special events.

For the history buffs visiting Clinton Square, two monuments honors significant historical events. On the northern edge of the rink area, towering about 70 feet, is the Soldiers and Sailors Monument, originally dedicated in 1920 to honor the 12,000 Onondaga County servicemen who fought in the Civil War. On the southwest corner of the square is the Jerry Rescue Monument, which commemorates the rescue in October 1851 of a fugitive slave, who was called Jerry, by abolitionists. Jerry’s real name was William Henry.

Heading south from Clinton Square is Armory Square, with its eclectic mix of shops and restaurants, and

one of the anchors of the qquare is the Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science and Technology, most commonly known as the MOST. Inside the building, which was a former New York State Armory, is a wonderful maze of adventures, covering many facets of science in an interactive way. Visitors can go back in time with the Dinomania exhibit, complete with robotic dinosaurs, set against vibrant backgrounds; they can travel to the core of the earth

Weeden’s Variety Shoppes

An Eclectic Co-Op with over 80 Vendors

Holiday Antiques & Open House Collectables Sat. Nov 12 & Sunday Nov 13

For Unique Holiday Gifts

Extended Hours Black Friday

Find an item for everyone’s list “We Have It All”

Busses Welcome facebook.com/weedinsminimall

facebook.com/weedensmimimall

4 Miles North of Sylvan Beach 315.245.0458

8056 Rt. 13, Blossvale, NY 13308

570-416-0690 • E-mail: clint@jdkmgt.com

Lake Placid, NY

�����������������������

One Place.

Many Adventures.

Exclusive Lakefront Property Easy Walk to Town Heated Floors Jacuzzi Game Room

Copenhagen, NY (Tug Hill) Snowmobiling Paradise Easy Entry To Trails Hunting Fishing Four-Wheeling

MILTON J. RUBENSTEIN MUSEUM OF SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

ARMORY SQUARE, DOWNTOWN SYRACUSE, 13202 | 315.425.9068 | www.most.org

2011 / 2012

WINTER GUIDE

19

Clinton Square in downtown Syracuse is a great place for ice-skating

or take flight and sit in a simulator cockpit of an F-16; they can tour the human body; climb through the Science Playhouse; reflect on the events of September 11, 2001, at the touring exhibit titled New York Remembers; or learn about the constellations at the Silverman Planetarium.

Visit the MOST’s website at www.most.org for the latest information on exhibits, hours, show times, admission prices and other fun facts.

But not all the stars are in the skies. Some are at the OnCenter and its facilities. The War Memorial arena is home to the Syracuse Crunch ice hockey team and the new local professional indoor soccer team, the Syracuse Silver Knights, and it will host a Disney on Ice show later this winter. Get all the info on the teams, schedules, ticket sales and rosters at their respective websites — www. syracusecrunch.com and www.syracusesilverknights.com — or at www.oncenter.org.

And some stars are on stage. The John H. Mulroy Civic Center Theaters at the OnCenter will be the venue for a range of shows this winter, from comedy to opera, and the Landmark Theatre on South Salina Street will raise the curtains this fall not only on a $16-million stage expansion and renovation project, but on a variety of performances, as well. Visit www.landmarktheatre.org for more information on schedules and tickets.

Central New Yorkers, especially lifelong residents of the area, will find a trip through the Onondaga Historical Association Museum on Montgomery Street to be a real

Business Services

treat. With every turn, there’s another display sure to bring back memories and smiles. The exhibit titled “Our Sporting Life – The Heroes, The Highlights, The History” showcases dozens of photos, trophies, jerseys, and other memorabilia from the rich legacy of Syracuse sports. The collection of artifacts in the section of the Museum titled “Communities” tells the story of generations of such a variety of cultures have come to make the greater Syracuse area their home.

Syracuse’s involvement in the abolition movement in the mid-1800s and the local individuals and families that were instrumental in this cause are featured in the exhibit “The Story of Syracuse and the Underground Railroad.” The business and industry section celebrates the inventions and the products that have helped to make this area — from the Franklin auto to the Easy Washer to the metal man that served as the symbol for Heaphy heating and air condition company for years. The OHA Museum and Research Center’s website — www.cnyhistory.org — has a wealth of information.

For more information on downtown Syracuse, including other popular spots, such as the Everson Museum, the Museum of Young Art; eateries, parking garages and lots, and shops, visit www.downtownsyracuse.com.

Commercial Financing Line-of-Credit Business Checking* Business Visa Online Banking for Business Let us help you with business solutions... call us: 800.462.5000, extension 5726!

FEDERALLY INSURED BY NCUA

20

2011 / 2012

+No Pre-Payment penalty on loans. * No processing fees for checks and deposits. Other checking fees (such as stop payment or NSF fees) will apply.

WINTER GUIDE

(607) 842-6204

Voted Best Ski & Snowboard Area by the Syracuse New Times and Table Hopping

For Directions go to: www.LabradorMtn.com

Learn to Snowboard Rental, lesson, lift tickets on beginner hill. Only $40.

LEARN TO SKI OR SNOWBOARD BOG1 of the same

FREE

Drive Time to Labrador Oswego: 1 Hour • Syracuse: 30 Minutes.

Watertown: 2 Hours

Snow-Shoeing Ice-Fishing Hunting

XC-Skiing Snowmobling

crossroads inn & cabins OPEN YEAR-ROUND!

REDFIELD’S ONLY BED & BREAKFAST RESORT Located on the main snowmobile trail system and the water’s edge. A spacious lodge with 5 large guest rooms, semi-private baths, fireplace and recreation room. In the woods behind it are cabins completely furnished with full bath and kitchenette.

Call your hosts, Tanya & Mitch Yerdon for reservations today!

315-599-4042 • www.greatsalmnowilderness.com 4760 County Route 17 • Redfield, NY 13437

VETERANS WANTED

SERVED YOUR COUNTRY - START YOUR CAREER.

POST WITH 911 G.I. BILL* • M.G.I. Bill / NYSVTA* • Financial Aids / Grants* • Pre-training Job Offers • Student Housing Consumer Information: www.ntts.edu/programs/ diclosures

All Tuition / Fees Paid!* * If Qualified

www.ntts.edu

Free Brochure 1-800-243-9300

Liverpool, NY Buffalo, NY (Branch) 2011 / 2012

WINTER GUIDE

21

Weather Talk

Friendship Thrift Shoppe “Volunteers Extending A Helping Hand”

6046 S. Main St., Sandy Creek

Here’s a rundown of some of non-four letter terms commonly used to describe the weather in CNY

(315) 387-6673

Offering Quality Used Clothing and Household Items at Low Cost!

Open Monday thru Friday 9 am to 4 pm Saturday 9 am to 1 pm Closed on Saturdays in Jan.,Feb & March

S

Try Some Real Country Goodness

HARP’S BULK FOODS 8220 Route 289 Belleville, NY 13611 Phone 315-846-5337

Buy Bulk for Quality & Savings!

• Great Lakes Cheese Curd • New York Aged Cheddar (4 to 12 years) • Master’s Touch Coffee roasted in New York • Pure Local Maple Syrup • Pure Local Honey

• Full line of deli meats and cheese • Stoltzfus Family Yogurt • Handmade Baskets • Home made Fudge

• Over 100 different kinds of candy • Almond Butter, Butterscotch Peanut Butter, Chocolate Peanut Butter all made in the store Sacket’s Harbor

OUR HOURS May to September: Mon.–Fri. 9 to 6 Sat. 9 to 5 October to April: Mon.–Thurs. 9 to 5 Fri. 9 to 6 • Sat. 9 to 5 Closed Sundays

22

2011 / 2012

County Route 178

Henderson Harbor

WINTER GUIDE

Rt. 75

BELLEVILLE R O Rt. 75 Hessell Rd Rt. 289 U T E ELLISBURG

3

South Landing Rd

SHARP’S BULK FOODS County Route 193

Rt. 87 Rt. 22A

To Sandy Creek

I N T E R S T A T E 8 1

Arctic Air Mass: As the name implies, it’s an air mass that forms over the Arctic. As you might expect, it’s a comparatively cold mass. It can be pushed southward when pressure is high over the North pole region, bringing frigid air into the northern states.

Black Ice: Refers to nearly invisible ice that forms on roadways and sidewalks, which may appear wet rather than icy.

Blizzard: You’d know one if you saw it, but the word refers winter snow storm with sustained winds or frequent gusts over 35 miles per hour. Because of blowing snow, visibility is reduced to less than a quarter of a mile.

Cold Front: Cold air is denser (high pressure) than warm air (low pressure). When a mass of cold air displaces a warmer air mass by creeping under it precipitation usually forms at or behind the boundary. After the front passes, the weather will frequently be colder and drier.

Cyclone/Anticyclone: Not as foreboding as it sounds, a cyclone is a counterclockwise circulation of wind around a low pressure area. An anticyclone is a clockwise circulation of wind around a high pressure area. In the Southern hemisphere, the circulation is the opposite of cyclones and anticyclones.

Snow Advisory/Winter Storm Warning: When snow is expected to create hazardous travel conditions, the National Weather Service may issue a snow advisory. Note that this is not as severe as a winter storm warning. You probably don’t want to be stuck on the road for one of those.

Snow Flurries: Nothing to worry about. Brief snow storms with little accumulation.

Snow Squall: Also brief, but far more intense. You’ll probably need your shovel afterwards.

Entertainment

GUID GU GUIDE ID

WINTER EVENTS Saturdays 11/5–3/31 Oswego: Rice Creek. On most Saturdays Rice Creek is open to the public. Hike, bike, or ski the trails. See exhibits inside the building. Watch wildlife from the indoor viewing area. Please call ahead. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. Rice Creek Field Station, SUNY Oswego, Thompson Rd., 216-6877, www.oswego. edu/ricecreek/programs.

Fri.-Sat. 11/4–3/31 Oswego: Winter Bird Study: Project FeederWatch.

Drop by most Fridays and Saturdays and help count the birds at the Rice Creek feeders from the indoor viewing area 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. Rice Creek Field Station, SUNY Oswego, Thompson Rd., Fri. 216-6878, Sat. 216-6877, www.oswego/edu/ricecreek/programs.

Thurs.-Sat. 11/25–12/17 West Monroe: Holiday Wreath Sale Fundraiser. Local harvested greens made into wreaths and hand-decorated with red ribbon and pine cones. Sizes range from 12 to 48 inches, prices from $10 to $75, with preorders available. West Monroe Historical Society, 2355 NYS Rte. 49, 676-7414, sgearsbe@twcny. rr.com, www.westmonroehistory.org.

11/26-12/11 Sat.–Sun. Oswego: Toys, Trains, and Christmas. Variety of

different operating toy train displays in addition to extensive model displays. Noon-5 p.m. Admission $2 adult, $1 6-12 yrs., under 6 free with an adult. Oswego Railroad Museum, 56 W. First St., 342-0028.

Sat.-Sun. 11/26–12/18 Sterling: U-Cut Christmas Trees. Create a holiday tradition your kids will treasure for a lifetime. Choose and cut a special tree, or select from pre-cut trees at the market. Saws provided. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free admission. Ontario Orchards Farms and Farm Markets, 15273 Sterling Center Rd, 343-6328, info@ontarioorchards.com, www.ontarioorchards. com.

Mon.-Sun. 12/1–3/31 Boylston/Mannsville: Sled Dog Rides. A short introduction to doglsedding, rides are 45 minutes in duration given by two-time international medalist Roy Smith. Call ahead. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. $75. Adirondack Kennel, Winona Forest, Exit 38 I-81, 408-7154, hounds@frontiernet.net, adirondackkennel.org.

Sat.-Sun. 3/17–3/18 Sackets Harbor: Great Lakes Seaway Trail “1812” Quilt Show. Reproduction fabric 1812 style, cot to coffin size (30 x 70 inch) quilt show. Vendors, exhibits, demonstrations, and music. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $5, free parking, held in accessible buildings. Seaway Trail Foundation Inc., 401 W. Main St., 646-1000, teresa@seawaytrail.com, www.seawaytrail.com.

DECEMBER All Month Long Liverpool: Wegmans Lights on the Lake. This 22nd annual event is a two-mile long drive through light extravaganza featuring life-size displays, themed sections and a memorable grand finale. Open nightly 5 to 10 p.m. Monday – Thursday $8 per car, Friday – Sunday $12 per car. $6 on Monday and Tuesday with a Wegmans Shoppers Club Card, $6 on Wednesday for vehicles with a Drivers Village or Burdick Automotive license plate frame. Onondaga Lake Park, 106 Lake Drive. 453-6712. www. lightsonthelake.com.

Syracuse: 26th Annual Gingerbread Gallery.

When you visit the Erie Canal Museum during the Gingerbread Gallery, the delicious aroma of ginger and candy will waft through the air, leading you to the second floor gallery. Each year the museum transforms into a festive 1800’s street scene with over 40 gingerbread creations on display in storefront windows. These sweet creations are made locally by professional and amateur bakers. The Gingerbread Gallery is open during ECM hours.

ECM is closed on Dec. 25 and Jan. 1, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Free for members, $2 for children, $4 for seniors, $5 for adults. Erie Canal Museum, 318 Erie Boulevard East. 471-0593 x15 www.eriecanalmuseum.org, natalie@eriecanalmuseum.org.

Geneva: “A Christmas Carol.” On Christmas Eve, Scrooge is visited by a series of ghosts who remind 2011 / 2012

WINTER GUIDE

23

the Skaneateles Area Businesses give a gift to the public for their support throughout the year. Charles Dickens and his cast of characters, directed by Jim Greene of Scarlett Rat Entertainment, will interact with residents and visitors in the streets, stores and restaurants. Numerous events and activities will be available for all ages throughout downtown Skaneateles, including horse-drawn wagon rides, carolers, dancers, interactive street theater, bagpipe music, a brass band, free roasted chestnuts, the World’s Smallest Christmas Parade Ever and more.

The celebration begins the day after Thanksgiving and runs every Saturday and Sunday through Dec. 18th, from noon to 4 p.m., and a limited show on Dec 24 (noon to 3 p.m.). 685-0552. http://www. skaneateles.com/visit/events-a-attractions/dickenschristmas.

Syracuse: Irving Berlin’s “White Christmas the Musical.” Based on the beloved 1954 movie musical, the Broadway hit is full of dancing, romance, laughter, and some of the greatest songs ever

him who he was and what he might yet become. He learns that the true meaning of the season and that it’s never too late to make a new start. The famous tale of redemption for the most despised man in London will awaken your heart and rekindle your spirit in the critically acclaimed new adaptation.

Children under 5 are not permitted in the theatre. See schedule and ticket pricing online. Performances through Dec. 24. Geva Theatre Center, 75 Woodbury Blvd. 232-4382. www.gevatheatre.org.

Each Weekend Fabius: Cross Country Ski Lessons. One hour introductory lessons offered, weather permitting.

10 a.m. (reservations required) or 12-3:30 p.m. (no reservations required). $20 includes equipment rental; $10 if you have your own equipment. Highland Forest, 1254 Highland Forest Rd. 683-5550. http:// onondagacountyparks.com/highland-forest Skaneateles: Dickens Christmas. Step back in time and enjoy the holidays the old-fashioned way, as

written, including “Happy Holiday,” “Sisters,” “I Love A Piano,” “Blue Skies,” “How Deep Is The Ocean,” “Count Your Blessings, (Instead of Sheep),” “I’ve Got My Love To Keep Me Warm,” “The Best Things Happen While You’re Dancing,” and the unforgettable title song, “White Christmas.” 8 p.m.

Fridays and Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays, and 2 p.m. Dec. 5 and 12. Contact for ticket prices. The Talent Co., Empire Expo Center/NYS Fairgrounds, 581 State Fair Blvd. 479-SHOW. TalentCompany@aol. com. http://www.thetalentco.com.

Dec. 1 Oswego: Ringing in the Season. The city will light the Christmas tree in Civic Plaza. Area students’ essays will be read, the Snowbelters will perform, other ethnic traditions will be recognized. Children visit with Santa and make a Christmas craft. Please bring a bell to ring. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Free. Civic Plaza, W. First St., 343-4225.

Fulton: 8th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Jubilee.

Musical performances by grade school children, costume characters, and arts and crafts for kids. Gifts will be handed out and pictures taken with Santa.

Winter in Oswego Oswego Harbor. Photo of Paul Murphy.

Winter is here... and so are we!

SOLD

Call Today: 315-342-2111

24

2011 / 2012

WINTER GUIDE

CARSON’S CAR MART ONE SHOPWe Do It All! We • 4 Wheel Alignment • Oil Changes • Transmission Repair & Replacement • Engine repair & Replacement • NY State Inspection • Paintless Dent Removal

Service Every Make & Model ASE Certified Mechanics LOWEST LABOR RATES

Guaranteed Lowest Prices On Tires!

315-342-4214

500 W. 1st St., Oswego, NY

Hot chocolate and Dunkin’ Donut munchkins will be served. 5-8:30 p.m . Free. Fulton Municipal Building, 141 S. First St. 592-2474, bostrander@cityoffulton. com.

Canandaigua: Festival of Trees. The magnificent Granger Homestead will be sparkling with more than 100 trees, wreaths, tabletop decorations and gift baskets beautifully created by local businesses, organizations and individuals. New this year is a hand-crafted jewelry category. Get into the holiday spirit at the Granger Homestead. Come and bid on your favorites - the silent auction ends on December 10th. Mon.-Wed. 1-5 p.m., Thurs.-Fri. 1-7 p.m., Sat.Sun. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. $5 adults, $4 seniors, $1 students K-12, free under age 5. Granger Homestead & Carriage Museum, 295 N. Main St. (585) 394-1472. http://www.grangerhomestead.org.

Rochester: Sweet Creations Gingerbread House Display. This popular holiday tradition returns for its 16th season. This presentation of more than 70 cleverly designed and decorated gingerbread creations will be the largest yet, on view in a dedicated gallery as well as throughout the historic house. The display features clever confections from professional bakers, families, and community groups. In addition, the National Historic Landmark house is elaborately decorated for the holidays. Tues., Wed., Fri., and Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p,m., Thurs. 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Sun. 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Adults $12, seniors (65+) $10, students (with ID) $5, children 12 and under and members are free. George Eastman House International Museum of Photography and Film, 900 East Avenue. (585) 271-3361 x238. hgray@geh.org, www.geh.org.

Fulton: 8th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Jubilee.

Musical performances by grade school children, costumed characters and arts and crafts for the children. Children may also have their photo taken with Santa and receive a small gift. Enjoy hot chocolate and Dunkin’ Donuts Munchkins treats.

5-8:30 p.m. Free. Fulton Municipal Building, 141 S. Fourth St. 592-2474. http://visitoswegocounty.com. bostrander@cityoffulton.com.

Oswego: Ringing in the Season. The city will light the Christmas tree in Civic Plaza. Area students will read their essays, the Snowbelters will perform and other ethnic traditions will be recognized. Children may visit with Santa and make a craft. Bring a bell to ring and join in the fun. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Free. 3434225. http://visitoswegocounty.com.

19

$ 99 OIL CHANGE Winter SPECIAL Includes a 32 Point Courtesy Check • Most Applications • Up to 5.5 Quarts

Tire Sale

ASSOCIATED DENTAL ARTS OF OSWEGO Dental Care for the Entire Family

Service... Quality...

exceeding your expectations

Collision Work • Regular Maintenance • Used Vehicles

315-343-6611 website: www.kensbodyshop.com ROUTE 104 E • OSWEGO

FULL MECHANICAL SERVICE & COURTESY CARS!

White’s Car Care Oswego Auto & Tire Center Your Complete Car Care Center

Baldwinsville: Trail Tales, Stories and Walk with a Naturalist. Listening to stories and exploring nature are two activities that most children enjoy. A naturalist will read stories to children aged 3 – 5 and lead them on a walk to experience what the season has to offer.

1 p.m., free with Nature Center admission. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 106 Lake Drive. 451-7275 onondagacountyparks.com/beaver-lake-naturecenter.

Fabius : Prime Rib Buffet. Enjoy a delicious prime rib buffet and a spectacular view from Skyline Lodge. Menu includes soup, salad bar, oven roasted chicken, garlic mashed potatoes, pasta, meatballs

Thomas P. Kearns, D.D.S. 327 West Seneca St., Oswego (Route 104 West at Gregory Street)

343-2450

www.associateddentalarts.com Always welcoming new patients

All Seasons Inn

• Brakes • Detailing • Budget Truck Rental • Batteries • Alignments

Expanded to 7 Work Bays to Better Serve You!!

45 acres of Cross Country and Snow Shoeing Trails MAKE RESERVATIONS ONLINE:

354 East Ave., Oswego, NY

5422 St. Rte. 104, Oswego, NY 13126 • (315) 342-9771

342-8014

• Wireless Internet • Weekly Rates Avail.

• Cable T.V. / A.C. • Microwave/ MiniFridge • Boat Trailer Parking • Onsite Laundry Facility

www.AllSeasonsInnCNY.com

77 West Bridge St. Oswego • Cable T.V. • Microwave • Mini-Fridge • Air Conditioning • Wireless Internet • Alarm Clock

• Work Desk & Chair • Flat Screen T.V. • Voicemail • Free Local Calling • Ethernet Hook-up • Private Bathroom

Call 315-343-3300 or Make Reservations Online

www.BeaconHotelOswegoNY.com 2011 / 2012

WINTER GUIDE

25

4169 State Route 3 • 315-593-2575

Wings | Burgers | Steak Sandwiches Fish Fry | Steak Dinners

$5 LUNCH SPECIALS Monday-Friday

Breakfast ● Lunch ● Dinner

Mimi’s Drive-In Route 481 N. ● Fulton ● 593-7400 7 DAYS A WEEK

Choice of Two Daily Specials -----------------Including----------------• Prime Rib - Reg. Cut ..................... 8.99 X-tra Cut .................10.99 • Seafood Platter ............................... 9.29 Shrimp, Fish, Scallops and Clams

• Fresh Haddock Dinner ................... 7.99

FAST SERVICE

PLENTY OF PARKING • FRESH COFFEE

Mon.-Thurs. 6-9; Fri. & Sat. 6-10; Sun. 6:30-9

Large Selection of Wine Parking on W. Third & Bridge Streets Mon.-Sat. 9 to 9 • Sun. Noon to 6 Carol Paura - owner

343-7722

Please: Don’t Drink & Drive

& Thrift Shoppe 3815 County Route 4 OSWEGO, NY

26

2011 / 2012

WINTER GUIDE

THE WINTER

WONDERLAND

James Pauldine

Jewelers

136 West Bridge Street • Oswego

(315) 342-4653 (GOLD) Buy & Sell Gold • Silver • Diamonds • Coins

99

Battery ¢ Watch installed with This Coupon

SERVING BREAKFAST, LUNCH AND DINNER

M-F: 8 am to 8 pm • Sat: 7 am to 8 pm • Sun: 7 am to 2 pm

23 E. Utica St., Oswego • Next to Tirrell’s • www.mpsse.com

207-2002

Featuring fresh cut fries • never frozen burgers Dogs • Sandwiches and More • Daily Featured Dinners Bring along this ad to Mom & Pop’s before 1/31/12

AND GET A 10% DISCOUNT

• OSWEGO INN •

“This Winter, step into our warm, homey atmosphere”

Call for Low Winter Rates • Cable Television w/ HBO • In-Room Refrigerators • Wireless Internet • Breakfast Included • American Automobile Association • Microwave in Every Room 180 E. 10th St. • Oswego (315) 342-6200 • 1-888-342-6212 Website: www.oswegoinn.com

D.ARNOLD

OVERHEAD DOOR CO. 802 W. Broadway P.O. Box 659 Fulton, NY

COMMERCIAL / RESIDENTIAL 24 HR. EMERGENCY SERVICE

for more features and stories

visit CNYWinter.com

SALES • SERVICE INSTALLATION C.H.I. OVERHEAD DOORS LIFT-MASTER OPERATORS (315) 598-3318 ~ FAX (315) 593-1099 2011 / 2012

WINTER GUIDE

27

Oswego Harbor. Photo of Paul Murphy. and sausage and slow-roasted prime rib. Reservations recommended. 6 p.m.- 8:30 p.m. $14.95 adults, $7.50 ages 5-11, under 5 free. Highland Forest, 1254 Highland Forest Rd. 683-5550. http://onondagacountyparks.com/highland-forest.

Dec. 2 Oswego: Contra Dance. Combination line and square dancing for all ages. No partner or experience necessary. 7:30-10:30 p.m. $7 general, $3 student, $15 family, $6 member. Oswego Music Hall Dance Series, McCrobie Civic Center, 41 Lake St. 9633037, www.oswegomusichall.org.

Oswego: Oswego State Women’s Ice Hockey vs.

Neumann, 7 p.m. $8 Campus Center Ice Arena, SUNY Oswego, 315/312-3073, www.oswego.edu/ athletics/team.

Oswego: Oswego State Women’s Ice Hockey vs.

Neumann. See Dec. 2 listing. 3 p.m.

Canandaigua: Festival of Trees. See Dec. 1 listing.

Rochester: Sweet Creations Gingerbread House Display. See Dec. 1 listing.

Cleveland: The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus. A Christmas play for children 6-16. 7 p.m. $5 adults, $3 children. Children’s Glassoworks Theatre, former Episcopal Church, North Street. 675-8517. dandm45@aol.com.

Dec. 3 West Monroe: Tree Lighting & Santa Visit. Singing group presents holiday songs, followed by Santa arriving via fire truck with lights and sirens, the tree lighting, and Santa visiting with the children.

Refreshments at Life Church next door. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free. West Monroe Historical Society, 2355 NYS Rte. 49, 676-7414, sgearsbe@twcny.rr.com, www.westmonroesociety.com Oswego. Folk Music Show. Folk and acoustic music

by My Rubby Well Band/Closer Still. 8-10:15 p.m. $12 advance, $14 door. Oswego Music Hall, McCrobie Civic Center, 41 Lake St., 342-1733, www.

28

2011 / 2012

WINTER GUIDE

oswegomusichall.org.

Mexico: Christmas Open House. Treasures for sale for gift giving and home/office decorating. Pop a balloon with a purchase of $25 or more for up to 50% off your entire purchase. Free goodies and drawings for special items. 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Free.

The Mexicali Rose Florist and Gifts, 3278 Main St., 963-8390, themexicalirose@gmail.com.

Oswego: Christmas Nu2u and Bake Sale. Christmas-related gently used and new items for sale to decorate your home for less. Some winter clothing, cookies, and sweet edibles also for sale. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. Trinity United Methodist Church, 45 E. Utica St., 343-1715, oswegocountytrinityumc@g mail.com.

Parish: Annual Tree Lighting and Caroling, Annual tree lighting with caroling begins at the Memorial Park, followed by vendors and activities at the Mills and Petrie Memorial Gymnasium. Doughnuts, cocoa, coffee, early Christmas shopping, and visit with Santa. Dan Dalin will read a classic story. Entertainment will be announced. 6 p.m. Free. Greater Parish Area Chamber of Commerce, Village of Parish, Memorial Park on Church St., Mills and Petrie Memorial Gymnasium, 415-6482, chamber@parish-ny.com, www.parishchamberofcommerce.parish-ny.com.

Oswego: Reindeer Run, 5K race with run, walk, and team options. Show your holiday cheer by dressing up as your favorite holiday character. 9:30 a.m. $20/ on or before 11/18, $25/after 11/18. Oswego YMCA, 249 W. First St., 343-1981, www.oswegoymca.org.

Mexico: Oswego County Holiday Farmers’ Market.

A holiday farmers’ market with many local farms displaying their agricultural products, including maple syrup, honey, produce, wreaths, and much more.

Free. Cornell Cooperative Extension of Oswego County, Mexico VFW, 5930 Scenic Ave, 963-7286, cls292@cornell.edu, www.thatscooperativeextension.org.

Mexico: Christmas in Mexico. Open houses and sales, free horse-drawn carriage, and bazaars. Be a part of the Oswego County snow angel record.

Parade, tree lighting, and Santa visits. Free. Mexico

Chamber of Commerce, Village of Mexico, 9631042, christmasinmexicony@gmail.com, commerce. mexicony.net.

Sandy Creek: Hemlock Haven Open House. Open house with Santa, horse-drawn wagon rides, and refreshments. Choose a pre-cut or cut your own trees. Wreaths also available. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free admission. Hemlock Haven Tree Farm, 460 Co. Rte. 22A, 387-5553, jforsyt1@twcny.rr.com.

Baldwinsville: Holiday Pancake Breakfast. Kick off the holiday season by joining the Friends of Beaver Lake for breakfast. Enjoy a tasty meal of pancakes, sausage and a beverage. There will also be a holiday bake sale. 9 a.m.– 2 p.m. $2.50, $3.50 or $4.50. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 106 Lake Drive.

638-2519 onondagacountyparks.com/beaver-lakenature-center.

Oswego: Reindeer Run. 5k course with walk, run or team options. Show your holiday cheer by dressing up as your favorite seasonal character. 9:30 a.m. $25. YMCA, 249 W. First St., 343-1981.

Rochester: Sweet Creations Gingerbread House Display. See Dec. 1 listing.

Geneva: Geneva Santa Express. Take a 60-minute round trip train ride with Santa and join in the holiday sing-along. Hot chocolate and concessions available for purchase. Reservations recommended. Departures at 10 and 11:30 a.m., 1, 2:30, and 4 p.m. $15, free for lap-sitters age 2 and under. Finger Lakes Scenic Railway, Railroad Place and Wadsworth Street. 374-1570. http://www.fingerlakesscenicrailway.com.

Canandaigua: Festival of Trees. See Dec. 1 listing.

Clayton: 49th Annual Christmas Parade. One of the largest parades in the region, complete with floats, bands and, of course, Santa. A fireworks display follows. 6 p.m. Free. Downtown Clayton.

686-3771. info@1000islands-clayton.com http:// www.1000islands-clayton.com.

Cleveland: The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus.

See Dec. 2 listing.

Dec. 4 Mexico: Christmas in Mexico. See Dec. 3 listing.

Sandy Creek: Hemlock Haven Open House. See Dec. 3 listing.

Pulaski: Light Up Pulaski. Mr. and Mrs. Claus meet and greet at the Fire Hall with gifts and snacks for kids, and entertainment. Entertainment and refreshments are also provided at the library, Historical Society, Salmon River Fine Arts, and Alliance Bank.

Make Sense Shop will also be open for lunch and shopping. Hay rides around the village, and free hot dogs and hot chocolate in South Park by the Lions Club. Lighting of Memory Tree in South Park at 4 p.m. to benefit local food pantries, noon-5 p.m.

Free. Light Up Pulaski Committee, South Park and surrounding areas, 298-5986.

Oswego: Christmas Open House. Holiday decorations, free museum tours, live music, cookies, and punch. 1-5 p.m. Free. Oswego County Historical Society, Richardson-Bates House Museum, 135 E. Third St., 343-1342, ochs@rbhousemuseum.org,

www.rbhousemuseum.org.

Pulaski: Lights in the Library. Christmas trees and wreaths on display with musical entertainment. 1-3 p.m. Free. Friends of the Pulaski Library, 4917 N. Jefferson St., 298-2717, pullib@ncls.org, www. pulaskinypubliclibrary.org.

Brewerton: Freezin’ for a Reason Polar Bear Plunge sponsored by Special Olympics. Help raise funds for the organization or watch the frigid fun. 9 a.m. registration. Free to participate or watch. Oneida Shores Park 9400 Bartell Road. 518-388-0790 x 107. malberico@nyso.org. http://polarplungeny.org.

Rochester: Sweet Creations Gingerbread House Display. See Dec. 1 listing.

Pulaski: Light Up Pulaski. Enjoy family activities, including a hay ride, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, free refreshments, entertainment and the lighting of the Christmas tree at 4 in South Park. All proceeds will benefit local food pantries. 12-5 p.m. Free. South Park and surrounding areas. 298-5986.

Canandaigua: Festival of Trees. See Dec. 1 listing.

Seneca Falls: Old-time radio play “Merry Christmas, George Bailey” by Seneca Community Players. 6 p.m. $6 tickets available at WomanMade Products, 91 Fall Street. 568-9364.

Baldwinsville: Natural Holiday Decorations and Ornaments. The old-fashioned Christmas tree is back in style with its wonderfully diverse assortment of handmade and hand-me-down ornaments. Join us to make your own ornaments utilizing natural materials or motifs. 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. $15 non members; $10 members. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 106 Lake Drive. 638-2519 onondagacountyparks.com/beaverlake-nature-center.

Dec. 5 Rochester: Sweet Creations Gingerbread House Display. See Dec. 1 listing.

Canandaigua: Festival of Trees. See Dec. 1 listing.

Baldwinsville: Create a Holiday Kissing Ball.

Spend the evening creating this beautiful balsam kissing ball, accented with red ribbon and bow for a wonderful addition to your holiday decorating. 6 p.m., $14. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 106 Lake Drive. 638-2519 onondagacountyparks.com/beaverlake-nature-center.

Dec. 7 Rochester: Sweet Creations Gingerbread House Display. See Dec. 1 listing.

Dec. 8 Rochester: Sweet Creations Gingerbread House Display. See Dec. 1 listing.

Seneca Falls: Old-time radio play “Merry Christmas, George Bailey.” See Dec. 4 listing. 7 p.m.

Dec. 6 Rochester: Sweet Creations Gingerbread House Display. See Dec. 1 listing.

Canandaigua: Festival of Trees. See Dec. 1 listing.

Dec. 9 Rochester: Sweet Creations Gingerbread House Display. See Dec. 1 listing.

Winter in Fulton Lakeview Lanes Cosmic Bowling Fri. & Sat. Nights 723 West Broadway Open Bowling Fulton • 593-8070 Arcade & Cosmic Birthday Parties THURSDAY NITE SPECIAL: $1 BOWLING NIGHT ($1 FOR SHOES, $1 FOR BOWL)

www.LakeviewBowling.com

Fulton Family YMCA

Oil Change $15 with purchase of a 4x oil change package ($60 value)

Cars & vans only up to 5 quarts. No synthetic oils or diesels. Oil changes must be used within 2 yrs. of purchase.

Expires 4/30/2012

ATTENTION ANY Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep Owners:

10% OFF

ALL PARTS & SERVICE Expires 4/30/2012

Can not be combined with any other coupon or discount.

BUY ANY TIRES Mounting & Balance FREE

Service your vehicle for less with Us

Wheel weight states tire fee tax extra

Savings of $12.00 a Tire

Expires 4/30/2012

715 West Broadway Fulton, NY 13069 (315)598-9622 www.fultonymca.com

Oswego County’s Only 5 Star Dealer

We build strong kids, strong families, strong communities

★★★★★

Shop Us Online at www.longleydodge.com Rt. 57, Just South of Fulton | 598-2135 2011 / 2012

WINTER GUIDE

29

When the electricity goes out… your heat won’t!

Dependable Propane Gas Service

FOR HOME • FARM • INDUSTRY Since 1937 913 Phillip St. Fulton 315-592-5450

David D. Mirabito CLU, ChFC, CFP™, MSFS

Senior Financial Services Executive Registered Representative Investment Advisor Representative 1909 State. Rte. 3, Fulton Ph: 315-592-3145 Fax: 315-592-8325 dmirabito@metlife.com Metropolitan Life Insurance Company (MetLife), New York, NY 10166. Securities and investiment advisory services offered by MetLife Securities, Inc. (MSI) member FINRA/SIPC and a registered investment adviser, New York, NY 10166. MLIC and MSI are MetLife Inc. companies. L05083327 [exp. 12/13][NY]

30

2011 / 2012

WINTER GUIDE

Seneca Falls: It’s A Wonderful Life in Seneca Falls.

Come celebrate the holiday season and the Frank Capra Classic film. Many believed Bedford Falls was based upon Seneca Falls, including Karolyn Grimes (“Zu-Zu”), who will make an appearance at the event, and co-stars Donna Reed and Jimmy Stewart. The event includes the opportunity to receive a “Bedford Falls” holiday postmark at the post office, autographs

by Grimes and Carol Coombs-Mueller (“Janie”) for $10, raffle, gingerbread contest, It’s a Wondeful Life Look-alike Contest, reception at the Hotel Clarence, caroling, and a wine tasting dinner. 9 a.m.-10 p.m.

Free, except for some activities. Hotel Clarence, 108 Fall St. and other locations throughout Seneca Falls. Complete schedule at http://www.therealbedfordfalls.com/events.php.

Syracuse: Sugar and Spice and ALL Things Nice!

This holiday show features some of the very best hand-made jewelry and crafts in upstate New York.

Mingle among the artisans and shop and buy their wares: unique, quality gemstone and lamp work jewelry, handcrafted soaps, lotions and oils, wooden utensils, wooden pens, baby clothes, American Doll clothes, fine art, cat and dog toys, dog coats, photography, note cards, ceramics and more! Enjoy fun community shopping with your local artists and crafters. Exhibitors are also offering a selection of products by popular home-based business representatives. 10 a.m. Free. Hosted by JB Enterprises at Shoppingtown Mall, 3649 Erie Boulevard E. 518491-1130. www.JB-Enterprises.org.

Canandaigua: Festival of Trees. See Dec. 1 listing.

North Syracuse: “Searching for the King: A Dramatic Christmas Musical.” Walk alongside a modern soldier and magi on two separate journeys joined by a common destination. Dozens of costumed characters, festive music and original sets. 7 p.m. Free tickets online. North Syracuse Baptist Church, 420 South Main Street. 458-0271. office@nsbconline.org. http://www.nsbcchristmas.com.

Syracuse: Birth of a King. A play produced by Dr. Joan Hillsman, this production features the story of Jesus told through poetry, drama, dance, and Gospel singing. Contact for tickets and prices. 7 p.m. Community Folk Art Center, 805 E Genesee St. 442-2230. cfac@syr.edu. http://www.communityfolkartcenter.org Cazenovia: Christmas by Candlelight at Lorenzo.

Bedecked in holiday finery, the neoclassical Mansion sets the stage for “Christmas at Lorenzo.”

With support from The Friends of Lorenzo, this perennially favorite December program features thematic decorations, seasonal displays, holiday refreshments and live music. Sleigh rides (weather permitting) are available throughout the weekend, and ornamental crafts and holiday treats will also be featured at the Rippleton Schoolhouse on Sunday.

An admission fee is charged. 7-9 p.m. Lorenzo State Historic Site, 17 Rippleton Road. 655-3200. www. lorenzony.org Skaneateles: A Christmas Carol Dinner Theatre.

Enjoy a prime rib dinner (with kid- friendly options available for the children) and a live, interactive performance of A Christmas Carol by Scarlett Rat Entertainment. 7 p.m. $55 adults, $20 children under

14, including tax and gratuity. Mirbeau Inn and Spa, 851 West Genesee St. 685-5006. http://mirbeau. com.

Dec. 10 Sandy Creek: Hemlock Haven Open House. See Dec. 3 listing.

Oswego: Oswego State Men’s Ice Hockey vs.

Hobart College, 7 p.m. $8. Campus Center Ice Arena, SUNY Oswego, 315/312-3073, www.oswego. edu/athletics/team.

Oswego: Rice Creek Ramble: Is Everyone Fast Asleep? Walk through the winter fields and woods to see who is still up and about. Enjoy an autumn hike. An adult must accompany children. Not able to accommodate groups. 11 a.m. Free. Rice Creek Field Stationg, SUNY Oswego, Thompson Rd., 2166877, www.oswego.edu/ricecreek/programs.

Baldwinsville: Holiday Pancake Breakfast. See Dec. 3 listing.

Syracuse: Sugar and Spice and ALL Things Nice!

See Dec. 9 listing.

Rochester: Sweet Creations Gingerbread House Display. See Dec. 1 listing.

Canandaigua: Festival of Trees. See Dec. 1 listing.

Syracuse: Birth of a King. See Dec. 9 listing. 2 p.m.

Seneca Falls: It’s A Wonderful Life in Seneca Falls.

See Dec. 9 listing.

North Syracuse: “Searching for the King: A Dramatic Christmas Musical.” See Dec. 9 listing.

Cazenovia: Christmas at Lorenzo. 1-4 p.m. See Dec. 9 listing.

Dec. 11 Oswego: Christmas at Sea Open House, Traditional holiday decorations, music, refreshments, and Santa. Miniature train displays courtesy of the Oswego Valley Railroad Association. 1 p.m. Free.

H. Lee White Marine Museum, W. First St., 3420480, info@hleewhitemarinemuseum.com, www. hleewhitemarinemuseum.com.

Seneca Falls: It’s A Wonderful Life in Seneca Falls.

See Dec. 9 listing.

Syracuse: Sugar and Spice and ALL Things Nice!

See Dec. 9 listing. 11 a.m.

Rochester: Sweet Creations Gingerbread House Display. See Dec. 1 listing.

Canandaigua: Festival of Trees. See Dec. 1 listing.

Cazenovia: Christmas at Lorenzo. 1-4 p.m. See Dec. 9 listing.

North Syracuse: “Searching for the King: A Dramatic Christmas Musical.” 4 p.m. See Dec. 9 listing.

Dec. 12 Rochester: Sweet Creations Gingerbread House Display. See Dec. 1 listing.

Dec. 13 Hannibal: Holiday Concert. An evening of holiday

Winter

in Pulaski songs, to get you in the spirit, presented by the Hannibal Senior High Band. Audience members are asked to bring a donation for the Hannibal Christmas Bureau. 7-8:30 p.m. Hannibal High School, 5647910, sterrino@hannibalcsd.org.

Rochester: Sweet Creations Gingerbread House Display. See Dec. 1 listing.

Dec. 14 Rochester: Sweet Creations Gingerbread House Display. See Dec. 1 listing.

Rochester: Gala Holiday Pops. Conductor Jeff Tyzik leads the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra in a seasonal celebration of instrumental and vocal music, including the Festival High School Chorale with Harold McAulliffe and Amy Story as co-direc-

Celebrating 200 years of restaurant service on Salina Street in Pulaski, NY

Steak, Seafood, Chicken, Veal, Pork and Pasta

tors. 7:30 p.m. $20-65. Eastman Theatre, 433 East Main Street. Ticket pricing and purchase online or at any Rochester-area Wegmans. (585) 454-2100. www.rpo.org.

Dec. 15 Liverpool: Trail Tales, Stories and Walk with a Naturalist. See Dec. 1 listing.

Clayton: A Charlie Brown Christmas with David Benoit. Since Charles Schultz’s “A Charlie Brown Christmas” was first aired on television over 40 years ago, the jazzy musical accompaniment has become just as recognizable as the storyline. Don’t miss pianist and composer David Benoit’s celebration of those holiday favorites as he is accompanied by a children’s chorus from a local elementary school.

7:30 p.m. Reserved $25; general admission: $20.

Lunch and Dinner Specials Daily MONDAY - SATURDAY 11:00 am to 9:00 pm FOR YOUR SUNDAY DINING Please Call for Hours BAR SERVICE till 10:00 weekdays Friday & Saturday till 12:00

Business Meetings•Seminars Parties & Receptions

Phone 509-4281

www.riverhouserestaurant.net

E-mail: www.riverhouserestaurant@yahoo.com

SNOWBELT WINTER WEATHER WARNING!

Are you ready to move some snow?

We’re ready to hook you up so you can blast your way through winter.

And, here, in snow central, you know we’re serious experts!

1744 Co. Rte. 28, Pulaski 315-298-6939 •Fax 315-298-3504 M - F: 8 to 5 | Sat: 8 to Noon Email: Dick@dicksautospecialties.com

Visit us on FACEBOOK at dicksautospecialties.com

Over 25 Years of Service as “The Best Damn Garage in Town” 2011 / 2012

WINTER GUIDE

31

Clayton Opera House, 405 Riverside Dr. 686-2200. http://www.claytonoperahouse.com.

Dec. 17 Fabius: Last Chance Run & Breakfast. Work off the all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast with an eight-mile trail walk/run. 8:30 a.m.-11 a.m. $10 adults and teens, $5 under 12; $20 family maximum. Highland Forest, 1254 Highland Forest Rd. 449-9615. http://onondagacountyparks.com/highland-forest Fabius: Horse-drawn Hay or Sleigh Rides (weekends through the rest of December). Get into the spirit of the season with a 20-minute ride through the woods.

11 a.m.-4 p.m. $5; under 5 free. Highland Forest, 1254 Highland Forest Rd. 683-5550. http://onondagacountyparks.com/highland-forest Albany: Albany Last Run 5K. The 15th Annual Last Run 5K is a great race for all ages, featuring a beautiful course through Capital Holiday Lights in Washington Park and a spectacular fireworks show.

This year’s race includes a new course map with mile markers, beginning and ending on State Street, near the New York State Capitol. A post-race party for all registered runners takes place at the Empire State Plaza at the base of the Egg, featuring age-based divisional awards and random prize drawings. This race also features chip timing. Awards will be given to the 1st place male and female runners. Top three male and female finishers in each of the following categories will also receive awards: 15 and under; 16-19; 20-29; 30-39; 40-49; 50-59; 60-69; 70+; middle of the pack. 5 p.m. Race begins and ends on State Street near the Empire State Plaza. Register online.

(518) 434-2032. www.active.com.

Homer: “A Christmas Story” Radio Play. Scarlett Rat Entertainment continues as the Center’s last performance of the year with its annual radio play. This year’s offering is the newly classic tale “A Christmas Story.” 8 p.m. Adults $20, seniors $16, students $10.

8 p.m., Center for the Arts, 72 S. Main St. (607) 7494900, info@center4art.org, www.center4art.org.

Dec. 28

Dec. 18 Syracuse: Holidays with the Animals. As part of the ongoing animal enrichment program, the zoo’s residents will receive presents filled with treats & snacks all with a holiday flair. 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m., Free with zoo admission. Rosamond Gifford Zoo at Burnet Park, One Conservation Place. 435-8511. info@rosamondgiffordzoo.org. www.rosamondgiffordzoo.org.

Dec. 23 Fabius: Horse-drawn Hay or Sleigh Rides. See Dec. 17 listing.

Dec. 24 New Haven: Christmas Eve Candlelight Service. A traditional Christmas Eve service including a reading of the Christmas story from the Bible, Christmas carols, and candle lighting. 7-9 p.m. Free. Community Alliance Church, 4177 NYS Rte 104, 963-1467. pastorrick@truevine.net.

Dec. 26 Fabius: Horse-drawn Hay or Sleigh Rides. See Dec. 17 listing.

Fabius: Cross Country Ski Lessons. One hour introductory lessons offered, weather permitting. 10 a.m. (reservations required) or 12-3:30 p.m. (no reservations required). $20 includes equipment rental; $10 if you have your own equipment. Highland Forest, 1254 Highland Forest Rd. 683-5550. . http://onondagacountyparks.com/highland-forest

Dec. 27 Fabius: Horse-drawn Hay or Sleigh Rides. See Dec. 17 listing.

Fabius: Cross Country Ski Lessons. See December 26 listing.

Fabius: Horse-drawn Hay or Sleigh Rides. See Dec. 17 listing.

Fabius: Cross Country Ski Lessons. See December 26 listing.

Dec. 29 Liverpool: Trail Tales, Stories and Walk with a Naturalist. See Dec. 1 listing.

Fabius: Horse-drawn Hay or Sleigh Rides. See Dec. 17 listing.

Fabius: Cross Country Ski Lessons. See December 26 listing.

Dec. 30 Oswego: Pathfinder Bank/ Oswego Hockey Classic.

The Oswego State men’s ice hockey team. will host its annual tournament. Teams participating include Neumann College, Connecticut College, and Hamline University. 4-10 p.m. $8. Oswego State Athletics, SUNY Oswego C a.m.pus Center Ice Arena, 3123073, adele.burk@oswego.edu, athletics.oswego. edu, tickets.oswego.edu.

Fabius: Horse-drawn Hay or Sleigh Rides. See Dec. 17 listing.

Fabius: Cross Country Ski Lessons. See December 26 listing.

Dec. 31 Oswego: Pathfinder Bank/ Oswego Hockey Classic.

See Dec. 30 listing. 1-4 p.m.

Oswego: Rice Creek Rambles. A walk through the winter fields and woods to see who is still up and about. An adult must accompany children. We are not able to accommodate groups. Please visit the website for dates and more information. 11 a.m. Free. Rice Creek Field Station, SUNY Oswego, Thompson Rd,

Winter in Pulaski The Make Sense Shop 4901 N. Jefferson St., Pulaski, NY 315-298-8694 M-F 8am to 2pm Web site: www.salmonriver.net E-mail: mstone7659@aol.com

SEASONALS, SNOWMOBILERS and ATVs WELCOME! Camping, Cabins, Trailer Rentals

On the Salmon River

32

• Electric Hook-ups • Lodging • Hot Showers • Laundry • Full Hook-ups • Guide Serivce • Tackle & Camp Store • Dump & Fish Cleaning Stations 2904 Rte 13, Pulaski, NY • 13142

1-315-298-2325

2011 / 2012

WINTER GUIDE

CAFÉ, BOOK & GIFT SHOP Homemade Soups & Baked Goods, Fresh Scones Daily, Fresh Made wraps, Paninis & More

Shop locally and see our unique & quality gifts at affordable prices.

In addition to our student made gifts we have... Melissa/Doug Toys, Sallyeander Soaps, Primal Element Soaps, Donna Sharp Pocketbooks, VLD Purses, Picnic Plus Bags, Rugs, Blankets, Cards, Paintings & More.

A student run business “learning by experience” Participating Schools Include: APW, Mexico, Pulaski, Sandy Creek

Join Us for our Open House during “Light Up Pulaski” on Dec. 4 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Special Christmas Hours

GIFT SHOP

OPEN SATURDAYS 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Sat., Nov. 19th Sat., Dec. 3rd Sat., Dec. 10th Sat., Dec. 17th

216-6877, www.oswego edu/ricecreek.programs.

Oswego: Nature’s Story Hour. As the seasons change, it is time to gather around the warmth of a good story. An adult must accompany children. Not able to accommodate groups. 11 a.m. Free. Rice Creek Field Station, SUNY Oswego, Thompson Rd., 216-6877, www.oswego.edu/ricecreek/programs.

Syracuse: First Night CNY. This special event will feature an opportunity to walk through Lights on the Lake, live outdoor music all evening culminating with a concert by national recording artists, New Boyz.

At the stroke of midnight, an extravagant fireworks display over Onondaga Lake will usher in 2012. 5 p.m.– midnight. $8, 5 & younger free, advance sale tickets $5. Onondaga Lake Park, 106 Lake Drive.

471-9597. www.lightsonthelake.com.

Canandaigua: New Year’s Eve Celebration. Celebrate with fireworks, a torchlight parade, and live music. There’s a bounce house and arts and crafts for the kids. It’s a great way for the whole family to ring in the New Year. 4-10 p.m. Free. Bristol Mountain Winter Resort, 5662 State Route 64. (585) 374-6000. http://www. bristolmt.com.

JANUARY Each Weekend Fabius: Horse-drawn Hay or Sleigh Rides. See Dec. 17 listing.

Fabius: Cross Country Ski Lessons. See Dec. 26

listing.

Jan. 1 Liverpool: Wegmans Lights on the Lake. See Dec. 1 listing.

Jan. 2 Syracuse: 26th Annual Gingerbread Gallery. See All Month Long December listing.

Liverpool: Wegmans Lights on the Lake. See Dec. 1 listing.

Fabius: Horse-drawn Hay or Sleigh Rides. See Dec. 17 listing.

Jan. 3 Syracuse: 26th Annual Gingerbread Gallery. See All Month Long December listing.

Liverpool: Wegmans Lights on the Lake. See Dec. 1 listing.

Jan. 4 Syracuse: 26th Annual Gingerbread Gallery. See All Month Long December listing.

Liverpool: Wegmans Lights on the Lake. See Dec. 1 listing.

Jan. 5 Syracuse: 26th Annual Gingerbread Gallery. See All Month Long December listing.

Fabius: Prime Rib Buffet. See Dec. 1 listing.

Liverpool: Wegmans Lights on the Lake. See Dec.

1 listing.

Baldwinsville: Moonlight Skiing and Snowshoeing.

The trails will remain open on these evenings as long as there is adequate snow cover. This is the opportunity for skiers and snowshoers to take advantage of the natural moonlight along Beaver Lake’s 10 miles of trails. Hot chocolate and other refreshments will available at the Visitor Center. Until 9 p.m. Free with Nature Center admission. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 106 Lake Drive. 638-2519. onondagacountyparks. com/beaver-lake-nature-center.

Jan. 6 Syracuse: 26th Annual Gingerbread Gallery. See All Month Long December listing.

Liverpool: Wegmans Lights on the Lake. See Dec. 1 listing.

Baldwinsville: Moonlight Skiing and Snowshoeing.

See Jan. 5 listing.

Baldwinsville: Guided Moonlight Snowshoeing. A winter moon lights the way as your group explores the Nature Center’s woodlands and frozen marshes on snowshoes. Registration is required beginning at 8 a.m. the day of the hike, and space is limited. 7 p.m.

Free with Nature Center admission. Rent snowshoes for $3. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 106 Lake Drive.

638-2519. onondagacountyparks.com/beaver-lakenature-center.

Jan. 7 Sandy Creek: Sportsman’s Dinner. Feast on wild and domestic meats and sides available from some

Visit our website anytime

www.lakeshorehardwoods.com

WE STOCK - KILN DRIED Ash, Oak, Cedar, Maple, Cherry, Poplar, Walnut, Basswood, Mahogany, Butternut, Curly Maple, Curly Cherry, Ambrosia Maple, Quarter Sawn Oak & Exotics ALSO - Mouldings, Stair Parts, Hardwood Plywood & Flooring, Bush Oil, Titebond Wood Glue, Carborundum Sand Paper, Miller Dowel Joinery System

266 Manwaring Road, Pulaski, NY 13142 • 315-298-6407 2011 / 2012

WINTER GUIDE

33

of the best cooks in the North Country. 2 p.m.-TBD. Admission TBD. Sandy Pond Sportsman’s Association, 3201 Co. Rte. 15, 387-6310, harvspsa@gmail. com, www.sandypondsportsmans.com.

Oswego: Folk Music Show. Folk and acoustic music

by Dady Brothers. 8-10:15 p.m. $12 advance, $14 door. Oswego Music Hall, McCrobie Civic Center, 41 Lake St., 315/342-1733, www.oswegomusichall..org Syracuse: 26th Annual Gingerbread Gallery. See All Month Long December listing.

Liverpool: Wegmans Lights on the Lake Run. This 4 mile run begins at the Griffin Visitor Center. Runners go to Willow Bay and back. No walkers please. Lights will be turned off at midnight. 11 p.m.-midnight. Free.

Onondaga Lake Park, 106 Lake Drive. 453-6712. www.lightsonthelake.com.

Baldwinsville: Moonlight Skiing and Snowshoeing.

See Jan. 5 listing.

Jan. 8 Baldwinsville: Moonlight Skiing and Snowshoeing.

See Jan. 5 listing.

Baldwinsville: Eastern Mountain Sports and Beaver Lake Nature Center’s Snowshoe Race. Participants can register for this 5K snowshoe race in advance or the morning of the event at the visitor center. After the race, participants and visitors can spend the rest of the day learning about winter camping, snowshoeing and cross country skiing. Representatives from leading outdoor equipment companies will be available to show the latest gear and answer questions. Snowless date is Sunday, February 27. 10 a.m. Free. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 106 Lake Drive. 638-2519. onondagacountyparks.com/beaver-lake-nature-center.

Liverpool: Wegmans Lights on the Lake. See Dec. 1 listing.

Jan. 13 Oswego. Oswego State Men’s Ice Hockey vs.

Curry College, 7 p.m. $8. Campus Center Ice Arena,

See us on the Web at

cnywinter.com

SUNY Oswego, 312-3073, www.oswego.edu/athletics/team.

Jan. 14 Boylston/Mannsville: Winona Forest Try-It Ski Races.. The event is a sanctioned 12.5 km, classic-style, cross-country ski race – one loop of the Tourathon course. Sponsored by the Winona Forest Recreation Association. 9 a.m.-noon. Admission TBD. Winona State Forest, 298-6993, info@winonaforest. com, www.winonaforest.com.

Sandy Creek: Oswego County Hot Wing Contest.

Bring two dozen hot wings for entry into the event.

5:30-6 p.m. Judging starts at 6 p.m. Free. Sandy Pond Sportsman’s Association, 3210 Co. Rte. 15, 387-6310, harvspsa@gmail.com, www.sandypondsportsmans.com.

Oswego: Oswego State Men’s Ice Hockey vs.

Utica College, 7 p.m.. $8. Campus Center Ice Arena, SUNY Oswego, 312-3073, www.oswego.edu/athletics/team Brewerton: YMCA Folksmarch. Walkers progress at their own pace and finish at any time. Routes are either 5K (3.1 miles) or 10K (6.2 miles) and are clearly marked. Individuals may walk a shorter, modified route if they prefer. 8 a.m.-11 a.m. Free for first-time walkers.

Oneida Shores Park 9400 Bartell Road. 676-7366. malberico@nyso.org. http://polarplungeny.org

Jan. 15 Brewerton: YMCA Folksmarch. See Jan. 14 listing.

Jan. 16 Fabius: Horse-drawn Hay or Sleigh Rides. See Dec. 17 listing.

Jan. 17 Oswego: Oswego State Women’s Ice Hockey vs.

Hamilton College. 7 p.m. $8. Campus Center Ice Arena, SUNY Oswego, 312-3073, www.oswego. edu/athletics/team.

Jan. 20 Oswego: Oswego State Men’s Ice Hockey vs.

SUNY Cortland. 7 p.m. $8. Campus Center Ice Arena, SUNY Oswego, 312-3073, www.oswego. edu/athletics/team

Jan.21 Cleveland: CHS Spaghetti Dinner. Winter fundraiser for Cleveland Historical Society. Spaghetti, homemade sauce, sausage, meatballs, salad, desserts, and drinks. Silent auction and 50/50 raffle.

4-7 p.m. $8 general, $7.50 seniors, $5 under 12.

Cleveland American Legion, NYS Rte. 49, 675-8688, swron407@aol.com.

Oswego: Oswego State Women’s Ice Hockey vs.

SUNY Plattsburgh, 7 p.m. $8 Campus Center Ice

Winter in Pulaski Try A NYS Wine Today!

“We Don’t Make the Only Sub in Pulaski. Just the BEST!”

“Mr. Sub” Featuring Salads, Tacos, Pizza & Wings

3969 Port St., Pulaski 298-5556

Open 9 am - 9 pm Monday - Saturday Sunday Noon - 4 pm

34

2011 / 2012

WINTER GUIDE

OVER 36 VARIETIES OF HOT & COLD SUBS! 4840 N. Jefferson St., Pulaski OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

We accept Visa, Mastercard & Debit

Call-in orders are welcome…

298-6021

• Competitive Rates • Microwave Oven & Refrigerator in Every Room!

• Senior Citizen Discount • Cable TV • Close to Snowmobile Trails

5240 US Rte. 11 North www.adriftwoodmotel.com

315-298-5000

Arena, SUNY Oswego, 312-3073, www.oswego. edu/athletics/team Sandy Creek: Northern NY Vintage Snowsled Race, 10 a.m. Warm-ups from 10-11 a.m., followed by a full day of racing. $10/general, 12 and under free.

Oswego County Fairgrounds, Ellisburg St., 387-3834, anteeanne@yahoo.com.

Oswego: Folk Music Show. Folk and acoustic music

by Hot Soup. 8-10:15 p.m. $12 advance, $14 door.

Oswego Music Hall, McCrobie Civic Center, 41 Lake St., 342-1733, www.oswegomusichall.org.

Fulton: CNY Arts Center Snow Day. Snow sculpting and snow painting takes place outside (fee to enter, prizes will be given), along with horse drawn sleigh rides. Indoors there will be a chili cook-off, storytelling, g a.m.es, art exhibits, and more. Check website for location details. Back-up date is 1/28. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. CNY Arts Center, Inc., 598-8812, artspartners@ymail.com, www.cnyartscenter.com.

Oswego: Oswego State Women’s Ice Hockey vs.

SUNY Plattsburgh, 3 p.m. $8. Campus Center Ice Arena, SUNY Oswego, 312-3073, www.oswego. edu/athletics/team Syracuse: Salt City Winter Antique Show. The warm glow of a vast offering of fine antiques takes the chill out of winter at the Salt City Winter Antiques Show.

Over 275 selected dealers cover thousands of square feet of floor space. Get free preservation consultations

by West Lake Conservators, Ltd. of Skaneateles of historic art and artifacts. West Lake Conservators specialize in paintings, painted objects, murals, paper-based and archival documents, ephemera, photographs, textiles and frames. An educational display of treatment documentation images and a power point presentation will also demonstrate the scope of West Lake’s work. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Adults $7; weekend pass $8; Children under 12 free. Empire Expo Center/NYS Fairgrounds, 581 State Fair Blvd.

487-7711. http://www.nysfair.org.

Jan. 22 Syracuse: Salt City Winter Antique Show. See Jan. 21 listing.

Jan. 27 Oswego: “The Truth: A Tragedy” with Cynthia Hopkins. An un-retouched reflection on Hopkins’ ailing father in song, dance, monologue, and video. 7:309:30 p.m. $15 public, $7 SUNY Oswego students,

$12 students/faculty/staff/seniors. ARTswego, SUNY Oswego Waterman Theatre, Tyler Hall, 312-4581, artswego@oswego.edu, www.oswego.edu/arts.

Oswego: Rice Creek Rambles. A walk through the winter fields and woods to see who is still up and about. An adult must accompany children. Not able to accommodate groups. 11 a.m. Free. Rice Creek Field Station, SUNY Oswego, Thompson Rd, 216-6877, www.oswego.edu/ricecreek/programs.

Oswego: Nature’s Story Hour. As the seasons change, it is time to gather around the warmth of a good story. An adult must accompany children. Not able to accommodate groups. 11 a.m. Free. Rice Creek Field Station, SUNY Oswego, Thompson Rd., 216-6877, www.oswego.edu/ricecreek/programs.

Ithaca: 2nd Annual Winter Village Bluegrass Festival.

The weekend features concerts, workshops, and jamming for bluegrass musicians and music lovers looking for a comfortable and inspiring winter music experience. This year, Winter Village features concerts and workshops by three award winning bands, the Gibson Brothers, Sierra Hull & Highway 111, and Tony Trischka & Territory. At La Tourelle, the Gibson Brothers will present instrumental, vocal and songwriting workshops between 1 and 4 p.m. A special unplugged performance will held at 4 p.m.

The opening happy hour reception will be from 5 to 6 p.m. with a Southern comfort food dinner served between 6 and 7 p.m. Rebecca Colleen and the Chore Lads will open the evening performance at 7 and the Gibson Brothers will perform two sets on Friday evening between 8 and 10:30 p.m. The weekend pass includes all performances and workshops (children younger than 16 are free) $75 if purchased before Dec. 25 and $85 after. Meals and accommodations are not included. The Saturday concert at the Hangar Theatre is $25 in advance and $30 from Dec. 26.

Tickets are available at LaTourelle, at the Ithaca Holiday Inn, by phone (607-592-4647) or at www. ithacaevents.com. La Tourelle Resort & Spa and Holiday Inn offer discounted room rates. For more information, call Dick Manning at the number above, email rick@wintervillagebluegrass.org or visit www. wintervillagebluegrass.org.

Jan. 28 Skanetateles: Winterfest in Skaneateles, Come take a plunge in the frigid waters of Skaneateles Lake (register online in adavance). Have a taste of Skaneateles’ best offerings from chowder and chili

Fine Dining in a Casual Atmosphere

ALSO SERVING PIZZA Check Out Our Seasonal Motel Rates!

Good Food • Friendly Service

Your Hosts, Edward & Paula Ward 3866 ROME ROAD • PULASKI • 298-7538

Women‘s

HealthWorks & Fitness

Business Hours: Offering Classes Mon-Thurs 9-6 Zumba, Yoga, Gentle Yoga, Kick Boxing, Step Aerobics & Trim and Tone Friday 9-5 Saturday 8-12 Also featuring a TLS Weight Loss

24/7 Access to club

Solutions certified coach as well as tanning beds and HEX stand up tanning booths

• Call Kathleen for more information: 315-506-5967 or 315-298-6068 www.womenshealthworksfitness.com kcarr58@centralny.twcbc.com

3848 State Route 13 Pulaski

Sashes&Lace Custom Window Treatments Harden Furnishings & More

COCKTAIL LOUNGE • MOTEL

DINNER SPECIALS

Jan. 29 Syracuse: Collectorsfest Sports Memorabilia Show.

Interior Design • Decorating Services

RESTAURANT

Enjoy Nightly All You Can Eat

to chicken wings, coffee, wine, maple syrup. Stroll through the historic village on an ice sculpture tour or watch a demonstration by a world class sculptor. Enjoy wood carving demonstration, ice fishing derby, Brewfest, and trolley rides. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Fee charged for some events. Genesee, Jordan & Fennell Streets in Skaneateles. 685-0552. www.skaneateles. com, Visit skanpolarbear.com to register for the dip in Skaneateles Lake.

Ithaca: 2nd Annual Winter Village Bluegrass Festival.

Also see Jan. 27 listing. At La Tourelle and Hangar Theatre, Sierra Hull & Highway 111 and Tony Trischka & Territory will present instrumental, vocal and songwriting workshops during the morning and early afternoon hours at La Tourelle. Afternoon performances will begin at 2 p.m. with the Jesse Alexander Band, followed by Tony Trischka & Territory at 3 p.m. and Sierra Hull & Highway 111 at 4 p.m. At 7:30 p.m., Cornerstone will open the show at Hangar Theatre with Tony Trischka & Territory following at 8:15 and Sierra Hull & Highway 111 at 9:30.

Inlet: Zippy’s Crusade For Kids. Meet & greet Nascar stars! A weekend fundraiser including a snowmobile ride, meals, music and activities. Call 1-866-GoInlet or visit www.CrusadeForKids.com.

Inlet: Adirondack Ice Bowl. A weekend of ice hockey tournaments on Fourth Lake with music and activities.

For more information, visit www.AdirondackIceBowl. com or call 1-866-GoInlet.

Parker’s Service, Inc. PO Box 67 • 4811 Salina St. Pulaski, NY 13142

298-4772

One Horse Open Sleigh

Gifts • Antiques • Accessories

4912 N. Jefferson St., Pulaski 315-298-3600 • gilsondm@aol.com 2011 / 2012

WINTER GUIDE

35

Inlet: Zippy’s Crusade For Kids. See Jan 28 listing.

Inlet: Adirondack Ice Bowl. See Jan 28 listing.

Feb. 3 Oswego: Oswego State Women’s Ice Hockey vs.

RIT. Pink at the Rink Day, 7 p.m. $8. Campus Center Ice Arena, SUNY Oswego, 312-3073, www.oswego. edu/athletics/team Baldwinsville: Guided Moonlight Snowshoeing. See Jan. 6 listing.

Baldwinsville: Moonlight Skiing and Snowshoeing.

See Jan. 5 listing.

Feb. 4

SENIOR CITIZEN HOUSING APPLICATIONS NOW BEING ACCEPTED.

SIMEON DEWITT

150 E. 1st St. Oswego, NY 13126 315-343-0440

TOWPATH TOWERS 100 Rochester St. Fulton, NY 13069 315-598-4700

SPRINGBROOK APARTMENTS 4920 N. Jefferson St. Pulaski, NY 13142 315-298-6101

THE FOLLOWING SERVICES ARE INCLUDED IN YOUR RENT • Trash Collection • New Appliances • Bus for shopping/groceries • Heat, Electricity & Hot Water • Snow Removal & Lawn Care • Planned Activities • All repairs & maintenance

Preference given for disabled veterans 36

2011 / 2012

WINTER GUIDE

It’s the largest one-day show in New York State, including sports memorabilia, race memorabilia, sports and non-sports collector cards, autographs, Beanie Babies, comics, Starting Line Up, toys, and a whole lot more.

Expect up to 150 vendors from all over the Northeast and Canada. Empire Expo Center/NYS Fairgrounds 581 State Fair Blvd. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Adults $4.00; Children 10 & under free. 487-7711. http://www. nysfair.org.

Ithaca: 2nd Annual Winter Village Bluegrass Festival. Also see Jan. 27 listing. At La Tourelle, enjoy unplugged performances with festival performers and guests from 10 a.m. to noon.

FEBRUARY All Month Fabius: Horse-drawn Hay or Sleigh Rides. Enjoy the outdoors with a 20-minute ride through the woods. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. $5; under 5 free. Highland Forest, 1254 Highland Forest Rd. 683-5550. http://onondagacountyparks.com/highland-forest.

Fabius: Cross Country Ski Lessons. See December 26 listing.

Feb. 2 Oswego: Contra Dance, Combination line and square dancing for all ages. No partner or experience necessary. 7:30-10:30 p.m. $7 general, $3 student, $15 family, $6 member.

Oswego: Oswego Music Hall Dance Series, McCrobie Civic Center, 41 Lake St., 963-3037, www. oswegomusichall.org.

Fabius : Prime Rib Buffet. See Dec. 1 listing.

Baldwinsville: Moonlight Skiing and Snowshoeing.

See Jan. 5 listing.

Oswego: Oswego State Women’s Ice Hockey vs.

RIT. Senior Night. 3 p.m. $8. Campus Center Ice Arena, SUNY Oswego, 312-3073, www.oswego. edu/athletics/team Oswego: Folk Music Show. Folk and acoustic music

by Jonathon Coleman/Boots N’Shorts. 8-10:15 p.m. $12 advance, $14 door. Oswego Music Hall, McCrobie Civic Center, 41 Lake St., 342-1733, www. oswegomusichall.org.

Sandy Creek: Mad River Children’s Ice Fishing Derby.

Sandy Pond Sportsman’s Association hosts the Mad River Ice Fishing Derby. Two days of family ice fishing, with prizes for the top in each category. 7 a.m.-4 p.m.

Admission TBD. Sandy Pond Sportsman’s Association, 3210 Co. Rte. 15, 387-6310, harvspsa@gmail. com, www.sandypondsportsmans.com.

Baldwinsville: Moonlight Skiing and Snowshoeing.

See Jan. 5 listing.

Feb. 5 Sandy Creek. Mad River Children’s Ice Fishing Derby.

See Feb. 4 listing.

Baldwinsville: Mid-Winter Blues Run. The run is 5K, and it begins and ends at the visitor center, using nearby country roads. All proceeds benefit the nature center. The run is open to all ages and the entry fee includes a long sleeved T-shirt for the first 100 entrants.

Winners will be awarded in various age categories.

9:45 a.m. $20 entry fee. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 106 Lake Drive. 638-2519. onondagacountyparks. com/beaver-lake-nature-center.

Oswego: Warm Up Oswego Festival. Indoor and outdoor activities for the whole family, including YP Voice Crazy Costume Team Sled Races, Hot to Trot 2k Race, Treasure Hunt in the Snow, hot and spicy food, Hot Downtown Scavenger Hunt, mask making and craft workshops, swing dancing, theater and dance performances, and fireworks at 6 p.m. over the river. After the fireworks, the fun continues with Babik at the Oswego Music Hall and Community Fiestas throughout downtown.

12 p.m.-12 a.m. Free. 343-1981. http://www.warmuposwego.com.

Baldwinsville: Moonlight Skiing and Snowshoeing.

See Jan. 5 listing.

Feb. 8 Oswego: Aulos Enemble. They pioneered the periodinstrument movement and established a reputation for lively phrasing. Dashing ensemble work, and polished vocal renderings. 7:30-9:30 p.m. $15 public, $6 SUNY Oswego students, $12 students, faculty, staff, seniors. ARTSwego, SUNY Oswego Sheldon Hall Ballroom, 312-4581, artswego@oswego.edu, www.oswego.edu/arts.

Feb. 10 Oswego: Oswego State Men’s Ice Hockey vs.

SUNY Fredonia, 7 p.m. $8. Campus Center Ice Arena, SUNY Oswego, 312-3073, www.oswego. edu/athletics/team Oswego: Garth Fagen Dance Company. Choreographer of “The Lion King,” Garth Fagen, combines Afro-Caribbean energy with the rule-breaking movements of post-modern dance. 7:30-9:30 p.m.

Admission $20 public, $12 SUNY Oswego students, $15 students, faculty, staff, seniors. ARTswego, SUNY Oswego Waterman Theatre, Tyler Hall, 312-4581, artswego@oswego.edu, www.oswego.edu/arts.

Feb. 11 Oswego: Oswego State Men’s Ice Hockey vs. Buffalo State, 7 p.m. $8. Campus Center Ice Arena, SUNY Oswego, 312-3073, www.oswego.edu/athletics/team.

Sandy Creek: Northern NY Vintage Snowsled Race, 10 a.m. Warm-ups from 10-11 a.m., followed by a full day of racing. $10, 12 and under free. Oswego County Fairgrounds, Ellisburg St., 387-3834, anteeanne@yahoo.com.

Boylston/Mannsville: Tug Hill Challenge Sled Dog Race. Competitive sled dog racing and skijoring. Also, a competitive dog weight pull. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. Pennsylvania Sled Dog Club, Winona State Forest, CCC Campus Co. Rd. 90, 489-0632, abenakimals@wildblue.net, www.pennsleddingclub. com.

Syracuse: Cupid’s Chase 5K Run and 3K Walk.

Sponsored by Community Options, a national organization that helps empower people with disabilities, this race and walk starts and ends at the Griffin Visitor Center. Onondaga Lake Park, 106 Lake Drive.

431-9859.

Feb. 12 Fabius: Empire Snowshoe Series. Shake off the winter doldrums with a 5k or 10k competitive snowshoe race. 8 a.m. registration; 10 a.m. race start. $20 early registration, $25 same-day registration.

Highland Forest, 1254 Highland Forest Rd. 655-2524. http://onondagacountyparks.com/highland-forest Highland Forest.

Feb. 13 Cortland: Step Afrika! Founded in December 1994, Step Afrika! is critically-acclaimed for its efforts to promote an understanding of and appreciation for stepping and the dance tradition’s use as an educational tool for young people worldwide. This event is presented as a part of the College’s Black History

Month. Artist appears by arrangement with MCM Arts and Entertainment. 8 p.m. $3 SUNY Cortland students, $5 general admission, children 10 and under free. Tickets available at Corey Union, Room 406 and at the door. Corey Union Function Room, SUNY Cortland, 1 Folmer Dr. (607) 753-5574 or www.stepafrika.org.

Feb. 16

Brewerton Motel

Clean • Jacuzzi • Affordable Take Brewerton Exit 31 off I-81, turn right.

Go 1/2 mile to US Rt. 11, turn left. Motel is 1 1/2 miles on left side of road.

(315) 699-8849 • (315) 657-2787

The Bake Shop Eatery

Syracuse: Winterfest 2012. Enjoy dozens of familyoriented activities and great food in the downtown area, including human foosball, cross country ski trails, ski camp, ice skating at Clinton Square, Meachem, and SunnyCrest, salsa and suds at Suds Factory, Downtown Dining Week, tango dancing at Suds Factory, ice castle, Post-Standard treasure hunt, library events, museum events, Erie Canal Museum, Everson Museum of Art, Onondaga Historical Museum, Museum Of Science and Technology, Mask & Puppet Museum, Rosamond Gifford Zoo at Burnet Park, Great Snowman Convention, evening entertainment, KidsFest at Paradise Market, Party in the Plaza at Paradise Market with live entertainment, dancing and lessons, snowman contest, Martini Mixoff, Hurricane Mix-off, Culinary Cruise, dinner dance party, Kids Karnival at City Hall Commons, chili and chowder cook-offs in Hanover Square, Cosmopolitan Mix-off wood carving in Clinton Square, wood carving auction, Margarita Mix-off, Bloody Mary Mix-off, Hammond Jammin’, and ballroom dancing. Events and activities start at various times. Free. 243-2500. www.syracusewinterfest.com.

Breads, rolls, pastries, soups, pizza, doughs, paninis, subs and sandwiches - all made from scratch!

Specializing in custom Wedding Cakes!

NO PRESERVATIVES • ALL NATURAL LOCAL INGREDIENTS

OPEN 7 Days M - Th 9a-9p F & Sat 9a - 10p Sun 10a- 8p Call Us Today!

315.963.1111

3281 Main Street Mexico N.Y. 13114

Sun-Thurs 6 am to 10 pm Fri-Sat 6 am to 11 pm

Feb. 17 Oswego: Oswego State Men’s Ice Hockey vs.

SUNY Plattsburgh, 7 p.m. $8 Campus Center Ice Arena, SUNY Oswego, 312-3073, www.oswego. edu/athletics/team Syracuse: Winterfest 2012. See Feb. 16 listing.

Breakfast Served All Day Frettas Starting at $4.29 Full Menu Breakfast-Lunch-Diner

Children’s Menu Available

All Including Beverage (No Refills)

315-668-3861 Located on State Route 49, just east of Exit 32 ramp off I-81 at Central Square

Feb. 18 Inlet: Adirondack Bank Sled Dog Races. The New York State Sled Dog Championship held on trails behind Murdock Trucking on Limekiln Road. Lots going on at the start/finish line including a dog yard where you can meet the dogs and talk with their owners. For more information, call Call 1-866-GoInlet.

Oswego: Oswego State Men’s Ice Hockey vs. SUNY Fredonia (Senior Night), 7 p.m. $8. Campus Center Ice Arena, SUNY Oswego, 312-3073, www.oswego. edu/athletics/team Boylston/Mannsville: Winona Forest Tourathon, 32nd annual Tourathon at Winona Forest Recreation Area. Sanctioned Nordic ski race-12.5, 25, and 37.5km distances. 9 a.m.-noon. Admission TBD. Winona Forest, 298-6993, info@winonaforest.com, www.winonaforest.com.

Oswego: Folk Music Show. Folk and acoustic music

by Greg Brown. 8-10:15 p.m. $25 advance, $30 door.

Oswego Music Hall, McCrobie Civic Center, 41 Lake St., 342-1733, www.oswegomusichall.org.

Sandy Creek: Ice Fishing Derby, Sandy Pond Sportsman’s 36th Annual Ice Fishing Derby. 6 a.m.-4 p.m.

Admission TBD. Sandy Pond Sportsman’s Associa-

Grist Mill Restaurant

INTERSTATE 81 - EXIT 33

Ice Cream • Daily Special DIESEL • GAS OPEN 24 HOURS 7 DAYS A WEEK

625-7691 For Updated Business News, Go To

�������������

�������� .com

2011 / 2012

WINTER GUIDE

37

listing.

Syracuse: Winterfest 2012. See Feb. 16 listing.

Fabius: Cross Country Ski Lessons. See December 26 listing.

Feb. 24 Syracuse: Winter Break Activities. See Feb. 18 listing.

Syracuse: Winterfest 2012. See Feb. 16 listing.

Fabius: Horse-drawn Hay or Sleigh Rides. See Dec. 17 listing.

Fabius: Cross Country Ski Lessons. See December 26 listing.

Feb. 25

tion, 3210 Co. Rte. 15, 963-0760, harvspsa@gmail. com, www.sandypondsportsmans.com.

Syracuse: Winterfest 2012. See Feb. 16 listing.

Baldwinsville: Ice Cutting. Did you ever wonder how people kept their food cold before there were refrigerators? What was an ice harvest? How did they get the ice from the lake and how was it stored so it wouldn’t melt? These and other questions will be explored while you have a chance to cut chunks of lake-ice with an old-fashioned ice saw. 10 a.m. Free with Nature Center admission. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 106 Lake Drive. 638-2519 onondagacountyparks.com/beaver-lake-nature-center.

Syracuse: Winter Break Activities. The zoo will offer special up-close encounters with some of the animals, demonstrations and keeper talks. 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Free with zoo admission. Rosamond Gifford Zoo at Burnet Park, One Conservation Place. 435-8511 x 100. info@rosamondgiffordzoo.org. www.rosamondgiffordzoo.org.

Feb. 19

2011 / 2012

Feb. 20 Syracuse: Winter Break Activities. See Feb. 18 listing.

Syracuse: Winterfest 2012. See Feb. 16 listing.

Fabius: Horse-drawn Hay or Sleigh Rides. See Dec. 17 listing.

Fabius: Cross Country Ski Lessons. See December 26 listing.

Feb. 21

Sandy Creek: Ice Fishing Derby. See Feb. 18 listing.

Oswego: Rice Creek Rambles. A walk through the winter fields and woods to see who is still up and about. An adult must accompany children. Not able to accommodate groups. Please visit the website for dates and more information. 11 a.m. Free. Rice Creek Field Station, SUNY Oswego, Thompson Rd., 2166877, www.oswego edu/ricecreek/programs.

Oswego: Nature’s Story Hour. As the seasons change, it is time to gather around the warmth of a good story. An adult must accompany children. Not

38

able to accommodate groups. 11 a.m. Free. Rice Creek Field Station, SUNY Oswego, Thompson Rd., 216-6877, www.oswego.edu/ricecreek/programs.

Syracuse: Winter Break Activities. See Feb. 18 listing.

Syracuse: Winterfest 2012. See Feb. 16 listing.

Inlet: Adirondack Bank Sled Dog Races. See Feb 18 listing.

WINTER GUIDE

Syracuse: Winter Break Activities. See Feb. 18 listing.

Syracuse: Winterfest 2012. See Feb. 16 listing.

Feb. 22 Syracuse: Winter Break Activities. See Feb. 18 listing.

Syracuse: Winterfest 2012. See Feb. 16 listing.

Feb. 23 Syracuse: Winter Break Activities. See Feb. 18

Inlet: Frozen Fire & Lights. Bring the family for a full day of fun! Begin at noon with a bonfire & cardboard sled race at Fern Park where there is free sledding, ice skating snowshoeing or cross-country skiing.

Then join other people at Arrowhead Park at 5pm for a much larger bonfire, free treats & cocoa and a spectacular display of fireworks around 7 p.m. For more information, call Call 1-866-GoInlet.

Fabius: Nordic Ski Fest. NYRSA sanctioned race and family activities. 9 a.m. registration, 10 a.m. race., 1 p.m.-3 p.m. family activities. Highland Forest, 1254 Highland Forest Rd. 683-5550. . http://onondagacountyparks.com/highland-forest Syracuse: Winter Break Activities. See Feb. 18 listing.

Syracuse: Winterfest 2012. See Feb. 16 listing.

Feb. 26 Syracuse: Winter Break Activities. See Feb. 18 listing.

Syracuse: Winterfest 2012. See Feb. 16 listing.

Fair Haven: Screwy Louie’s Ice Fishing Derby. Try your luck at Little Sodus Bay (Fair Haven), Blind Sodus Bay and the Park Pond. Check the website or call for more details. 947-6348. http://www.fairhavenny. com/calendar.html.

MARCH Each Weekend Baldwinsville: It’s Maple Syrup Time. This celebration of the maple syrup season marks the coming of spring.

A visit to the demonstration sugarbush will introduce you to the heritage of sugaring and the production of maple syrup. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays; 1 p.m.-4 p.m., Sundays. Free with Nature Center admission. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 106 Lake Drive. 638-2519. onondagacountyparks.com/beaver-lake-naturecenter.

Mar. 1 Fabius : Prime Rib Buffet. See Dec. 1 listing.

Mar. 3 Oswego: Contra Dance. Combination line and square dancing for all ages. No partner or experience necessary. 7:30-10:30 p.m $7 general, $3 student, $15 family, $6 member.

Oswego Music Hall Dance Series, McCrobie Civic Center, 41 Lake St., 963-3037, www.oswegomusichall.org.

Sandy Creek: Great Chili Cook-Off, 8th Annual Great Chili Cook-off. Bring a crock pot of chili to the event.

Chili will be judged in two categories: hot and coward.

5:30-6 p.m. Free. Sandy Pond Sportsman’s Association, 3201 Co. Rte. 15, 387-6310, harvspsa@gmail. com, www.sandypondsportsmans.com.

Oswego: Folk Music Show. Folk and acoustic music

by Dan Duggan & Peggy Lynn. 8-10:15 p.m. $12 advance, $14 door. Oswego Music Hall, McCrobie Civic Center, 41 Lake St., 342-1733, www.oswegomusichall.org.

Baldwinsville: Pancake Breakfast. Enjoy pancakes, sausage, and coffee or juice. 9 a.m.noon. $2-$4, depending on appetite. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 106 Lake Drive. 638-2519. onondagacountyparks.com/beaver-lake-naturecenter.

Mar. 4 Fabius: Horse-drawn Hay or Sleigh Rides. See Feb. Weekends listing.

Mar. 5 Fabius: Horse-drawn Hay or Sleigh Rides. See Feb. Weekends listing.

Mar. 10 Baldwinsville: Pancake Breakfast. See Mar. 3 listing.

Mar. 11 Fabius: Horse-drawn Hay or Sleigh Rides. See Feb. Weekends listing.

Mar. 12 Fabius: Horse-drawn Hay or Sleigh Rides. See Feb. Weekends listing.

Mar. 13 Hannibal: Music in Our Schools Concert. An evening of upbeat music to showcase the talented musicians from Hannibal, presented by the Senior High Band and Senior High Chorus. 7-8:30 p.m. Free. Hannibal High School, 564-7910, sterrino@hannibalcsd.org.

Mar. 17 Parish: Annual Parish Irish Day. Irish fest with parade, vendors, and a bake sale. Entertainment will be announced. Noon-4 p.m. Free. The Greater Parish Area Chamber of Commerce, Mills and Petrie Memorial Gymnasium, 2938 E Main St., 415-6482,

chamber@parish-ny.com, www.parishchamberofcommerce.parish-ny.com.

Oswego: Folk Music Show. Folk and acoustic music

by Tracy Grammer. 8-10:15 p.m. $12 advance, $14 door. Oswego Music Hall, McCrobie Civic Center, 41 Lake St., 342-1733, www.oswegomusichall.org.

Baldwinsville: Pancake Breakfast. See Mar. 3 listing.

Fulton: Maple Weekend Open House. Enjoy children’s activities, boiling demonstrations, and samples.

Free admission, $6 for breakfast. 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Red Schoolhouse Maple, 2437 County Rte. 4.

Hannibal: Maple Weekend 2012. Guided sugar house tours, tree tapping demonstrations, story hour, free samples, milking farm and baby farm animals available. Meet the Oswego County Maple Princess and Ambassador. Free. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Maple Hollow Farm, 1309 County Rd. 85. 564-7133. rfowler10@twcny.rr.com.

Mar. 18 Fulton: Maple Weekend Open House. See Mar. 17 listing.

Hannibal: Maple Weekend 2012. See Mar. 17 listing.

Syracuse: 3rd Annual Irish Road Bowling Tournament.

Four-person teams will compete by rolling a small cannonball along a 2-mile Shoreline Walking Trail course. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. $100 per team. Onondaga Lake Park 453-6712 Onondaga Lake Park, 106 Lake Drive. 453-6712.

Fabius: Horse-drawn Hay or Sleigh Rides. See Feb. Weekends listing.

Several collectors in one shop!

Great prices!

Antiques, Vintage, Primitive, Collectibles, Unique Gifts, Handcrafted Treasures & Previously Loved Furnishings.

South Jeff Plaza • 10924 US RT 11 Adams, NY 13605

315-232-2206

www.nanarosehomedecor.com

Receive 15% Off Your Stay with This Ad • Free Wireless

• Complimentary Hot Breakfast • Restaurant Adjacent • Directly Off I-90 & I-81

Quality Inn

401 7th. North Street Liverpool, NY 13088 www.choicehotels.com

315-451-6000

Mar. 24 Baldwinsville: Pancake Breakfast. See Mar. 3 listing.

Hannibal: Maple Weekend 2012. See Mar. 17 listing.

Mar. 25 Hannibal: Maple Weekend 2012. See Mar. 17 listing.

Mar. 31 Oswego: 2nd Annual Oswego County War of 1812 Symposium. Lectures and programs by noted historians focusing on the War of 1812 in and around Oswego County. 9 a.m.– 5 p.m. Admission charged.

American Foundry, 246 W. Seneca St. Sponsored

by Friends of Fort Ontario, Oswego County Tourism Advisory Council, Fort Ontario State Historic Site with support from the City of Oswego and The PalladiumTimes. Oswego County Tourism Office, 349-8322 ;www.visitoswegocounty.com or Fort Ontario State Historic Site, 315-343-4711, www.fortontario.com.

Oswego: Folk Music Show. Folk and acoustic music

by James Lee Stanley. 8-10:15 p.m. Admission $12 advance, $14 door. Oswego Music Hall, McCrobie Civic Center, 41 Lake St., 342-1733, www.oswegomusichall.org.

Baldwinsville: Pancake Breakfast. See Mar. 3 listing.

Bed& Breakfast 8785 Dinglehole Road Baldwinsville, NY 13027 Roselea A. George

theroselea.com roseleag@theroselea.com Ph: (315) 678-5043 • C: (443) 248-7743

•Birkenstock •Dr. Martens •Minnetonka Moccasins •T-Shirts •Clothing •Jackets (leather too) •Motorcycle Stuff •Hats •Jewelry •Incense •Candles •Stickers •Patches •Frames •Poof Chairs • Blankets •Wizards •Dragons •Skulls •Cigars •Clove Cigars •Tobacco Accessories •Zippos •Cig cases

ALL MIXED UP Celebrating Our 14th Anniversary

8140 Route 11, Cicero (1 mile North of Home Depot)

698-4330

2011 / 2012

WINTER GUIDE

39

Wintertime is for Birding, Too If you’ve never watched birds, there’s no time like the present to start

By Deborah Jeanne Sergeant

S

ince many birds migrate to warmer climes during the winter, it may seem a poor time to go bird watching; however, many species remain during the colder months and can provide birders further opportunities to watch these beautiful and resourceful creatures.

If you’ve never watched birds, there’s no time like the present to start.

It’s not that hard to begin birding during the winter.

“Families in particular can simply put a feeder out or a birdhouse in their yard and [and watch a variety of birds] while sitting at breakfast table,” said Chris Lajewski, education manager at Montezuma Audubon Center.

Any area park with a non-frozen body of water or with bushes bearing seeds attractive to birds can also represent prime birding locations. At Montezuma Audubon Center, winter activities include snowshoeing or hiking to observe birds and wildlife, followed by an informal social time indoors to warm up and discuss.

“It’s very much a family-oriented program,” Lajewski said. “We have adult- and kid-sized snowshoes to rent out. You don’t have to even have to own them.”

The park hosts the outings Saturdays.

The Christmas Bird Count, Project Feeder Watch or Great Backyard Bird Count (www.birdsource.org/gbbc) are conservation projects free to the public that involve volunteers observing birds for short time periods for a couple of days, recording the species they see and

40

2011 / 2012

submitting the information to ornithologists at organizations such as Cornell Lab of Ornithology.

“It’s used to track the status of winter birds around the US,” Lajewski said. “By birding and keeping track of the birds you see and sending in the information to scientists, you’re helping to conserve them.”

In addition to enjoying the outdoors more and helping conservation efforts, winter birding can help children learn more about birds and their role in ecology.

“Children involved in projects at home or at a nature center or park and they become fixed on these birds and how they live, what sounds they make,” Lajewski said. When they know how to identify a bluebird, you could be out doing errands or running to church and they’ll say, ‘I saw a bluebird!’ They’re totally connected to that critter and that will last a long time.”

Places for Bird Watching Want to know where to go? Try these venues for some terrific birding adventures.

• Montezuma Wetlands Complex near Savannah off Route 89 north of the Thruway includes wetlands, deciduous forest, and meadows. In late fall, watch mallard and American black ducks, swallows, among many other species.

• Three Rivers in Lysander, Onondaga County, offers grassland, shrubs, wetland and forest. Many varieties of

WINTER GUIDE

Cardinals add a splash of color to the winter landscape. Photo by Jerry Acton. thrushes winter here as do northern shrikes.

• Three Mile Bay, on the northwestern shore of Oneida Lake near the towns of West Monroe and Constantia, offers forest, meadows, wooded swamp land and a little marshland. The close proximity to lake water makes it a prime area for viewing waterfowl year-round.

• Selkirk Shores, part of Selkirk Shores State Park in Oswego County, is on the lake close to the south of Port Ontario. Many of the birds attracted to Selkirk Shores are marsh, forest or shrub-oriented varieties.

In late autumn, watch the piedbilled grebe before it migrates. The sharp-shinned hawk, among other species, spends all winter at Selkirk Shores.

• Derby Hill Bird Observatory in Mexico, Oswego County is a preserve operated by the Onondaga Audubon Society. Look for hawks during late fall and early winter.

• At Onondaga Lake Park in Syracuse, explore the south end of the late to see bald eagles. Lajewski said about 20 of the majestic birds were seen there last winter.

• Waterfowl like Cayuga Lake and Seneca Lake because the lakes’ depth prevents them from freezing and provides the birds a good habitat during the winter.

Time to Chill at ‘Warm Up Oswego’ A treasure hunt in the snow and fireworks are some of the events planned for Oswego festival

O

swego has found a great wintertime event that it can warm up to.

The seventh annual 2012 Warm Up Oswego event will take place Feb. 3-4 in downtown Oswego and the Oswego YMCA Armory.

At 6 p.m. Feb. 3, Warm Up Oswego kicks off in style with a bonfire and the awarding of prizes for the sculpture contest.

There will be contra dancing at the McCrobie Civic Center on the evening

of Feb. 3. Pyrotecnico Vitale Family Fireworks will present the fireworks display Feb. 4.

Events featured in 2011 are expected to take place again. Among those events included a “Hot 2K Trot Walk/Run;” a treasure hunt in the snow; “Crazy Costume Sled Race;” warm and spicy foods; a downtown “Hot Scavenger Hunt;” arts and crafts; theatre/dance performances at the armory; a fireworks display over the Oswego River, and “fiestas” throughout downtown.

New this year will be a weeklong neighborhood snow sculpture contest.

An elaborate dragon sculpture built on Syracuse Avenue last year caught the attention of the Warm Up Oswego Festival Committee.

“That inspired our committee to think we can have that kind of competition throughout the city,” said Mary Vanouse, director of the city of Oswego Community Development Office, who co-coordinates the event.

Those wishing to participate in the contest need to register their sculptures at the Oswego YMCA by Feb. 1, the Wednesday prior to the festival.

Warm Up Oswego was born as a result of the city’s 20/20 Vision Plan, a long-range strategic plan. “People wanted a winter festival in Oswego.

There wasn’t one that had been as longstanding as this,” Vanouse said.

The event receives sponsorship support led by the city and Oswego YMCA.

2011 / 2012

WINTER GUIDE

41

Snow Sculpting 101 You can make anything you want out of snow, and you don’t need to be a professional sculptor to do it

By Melissa Stefanec

S

now sculpting is catching on with people of all ages. There are competitions popping up at winter festivals and community parks.

You don’t need to be a professional to get in on the fun. You can sculpt snow right in your own backyard.

There are a few simple tricks to getting started, but once you get the hang of it you can take pleasure in a form outside recreation that doesn’t cost a dime.

You can make anything you want out of snow. Think of it as winter’s sand and make things you would normally create at the beach.

42

2011 / 2012

WINTER GUIDE

Getting Started – Snow sculptures are usually carved

out of a solid block of snow. You may not have snow machines like the professionals, but you can take the snow in your yard or drive way and compact it. If you have a plow, plow it into a pile and beat it down. You can also put snow into a clean garbage can, wooden crate or some sort of other canister. Once it’s contained, pack it down with a shovel or by walking on it. The denser you make your snow, the easier it will be to carve.

Once you have the snow packed tightly, remove the container. Take a shovel and smooth out any large bumps and repair any cracks. Use a small amount of water to fix cracks. Take the water and push the crack together or fill it with snow and let the water bind. Shave down your mound so it is the basic shape of whatever you want to make.

Tools – Once you have the shape of what you want

to make you can use stuff found around your house to add detail. Garden tools are great for carving snow. Use

Winter in the

Adirondacks

a hand trowel, hoe, rake or wheel barrow to help you along. You can also take objects from inside the house.

Use a chisel, butter knife, wooden spoon, barbeque tools and mixing bowls (think eyes). You can also use the same tools you would use at the beach, such as a pail or mold. Add shapes and texture. Use everyday objects to add imprints.Troubleshooting – When you are carving and fine tuning, make sure not to make a piece too slender. Leaving too little snow will set you up for a crumble. If something small does break, just use a little water to patch it. If the snow you are working with is too powdery, use the garden hose to wet it down a little.

Don’t use too much water or the snow will turn to slush and be unsculptable.

Finishing Touches – A spray bottle is another important tool for snow sculpting. Once you have your sculpture perfected spray it with water to form an outer layer of ice. Your sculpture with shine and stand up to melting. If you want to get fancy, spray water colored with food coloring (and use a lot).

Call Now and Reserve Your Snowmobiles!

1, 2, & 3 Seaters We Rent Touring Snowmobiles Ski-Doo/Polaris

www.ofsporttours.com 315-369-3796 Res. 800-854-1202 Thendara, NY on Trail 6 2011 / 2012

WINTER GUIDE

43

Skijoring is a fun way for Richard Erenstone and Alaska, the dog, to mix cross country skiing and dog walking. Photo courtesy of Denise Erenstone.

Shake a (Dog) Leg with Skijoring Discovering skijoring: Ski-based activity in- I volves tethering a dog to a skier to combine cross-country skiing and dog walking

By Deborah Jeanne Sergeant

44

2011 / 2012

n 2001, Denise Erenstone, then an optician, wanted her dogs to tag along while she cross-country skied near her Lake Placid home. A newly passed ordinance required she keep them leashed while outside, making skiing with them impossible since she could not hold the leash and her ski poles. That’s when Erenstone and her husband, Richard, discovered skijoring: a ski-based activity that involves tethering a dog to a skier to combine cross-country skiing and dog walking.

WINTER GUIDE

Richard currently works as an optometrist at Eye Care for the Adirondacks in Saranac Lake. His wife is retired, which allows her more time to follow her passion for skijoring. She sells skijoring equipment from their home business, Adirondack SkiDog (www. adirondackskidog.com).

Skijoring is pretty straightforward.

A skier need only add a harness to his dog, a hip belt to himself and connect the two with a towline and they’re all set.

The towline is usually 7.5 feet for one

dog and longer for additional dogs “It’s been popular in Alaska and the Midwest for quite some time,” Erenstone said. “I don’t know of anyone else in New York [selling skijoring equipment].

It’s not real mainstream.”

Frank Caldwell of Mannsville, Jefferson County, has helped organize dog winter sports events locally, including skijoring.

“Especially for people who cross country ski and don’t want to leave their dog at home, or if you like sled dog sports, it’s a fun way to do it with a limited number of dogs,” he said. “Not everyone has room for four or more sled dogs.”

Jason Sperry of Mexico couldn’t agree more. He and his wife, Erin, have been skijoring for a decade.

“I like working with the dogs,” he said. “With skijoring you’re either working with one or two dogs at a time so you get a very close bond with the dogs.

“With sled racing, it can be four to eight dogs. I like the one-on-one attention to the dogs and the connection that I get with skijoring.”

Erenstone has observed that many people who’ve become interested in skijoring competitively used to dogsled race. They still want to get outside with dogs, but are downsizing and skijoring fits them well because the activity requires only one dog, not a team of them. And the dogs don’t have to be huge, either.

“Any dog that’s 30 to 35 pounds or more could pull you,” Erenstone said.

“The greater difference in the weight of the dog to the weight of the person makes a difference.”

For example, a 25-pound dog might be able to skijor with 85-pound but not a 250-pound person. But small dogs aren’t out of the question. Determination also helps scrappy, smaller dogs.

“I have put a harness on a 12-pound Jack Russell terrier,” Erenstone said. “[The breed] will run away and won’t stay with you. The owners wanted to go out skiing and take their dog with them.

The dog would run ahead and pull with his collar. So they thought a harness

would help. And the dog does pull but doesn’t give them a lot of boost.”

It’s important to skijor with a dog who wants to go first.

“A dog who’s good at heeling will need to be retrained to go in front of you and there’s no reason they can’t learn to do both,” Erenstone said. “They can understand the difference between when you put on a collar for a walk and a harness for skijoring.”

In case a dog decides to dart under low-lying branches after a rabbit, the system includes a quick release latch.

“You can work with your dog on a leash first before you put on the skis so they understand. You want your dog have a good sit/stay so they’ll stay while you’re getting ready, a command to tell them to go, stop, straight, right or left.

We use ‘gee’ and ‘haw’ like sled dogs.”

“Hike” is used for “go” and “whoa” for stop. “Easy” tells dogs to slow down.

Some larger dog breeds don’t have very thick fur for winter activities, so a dog coat may help. Some owners also use dog booties to protect pads from cuts and cold.

At her home business, Erenstone helps customers find and adjust the right pieces for hitching up with their hounds, and, weather permitting, lets them try it out on a trail behind the house for free. If Buster won’t budge, Erenstone allows customers to return their equipment.

As for the human involved, “it’s really important to first learn how to ski before you attach a dog to yourself,” Sperry said. “People interested in getting involved in skijoring should go to a ski center and pay for lessons or ask someone who knows how to ski well and see if they’ll give you lessons. With skijoring, you’ll go a lot faster than by yourself. If you have a dog pulling you, a skier who isn’t competent could get injured.”

Skijoring has opened up new opportunities for recreation for many of its enthusiasts.

“Now we can go places we couldn’t otherwise go with our dogs,” Erenstone

said her pooches, a Lab mix, named Carbo and a black Lab puppy, Spirit.

“You can go faster and you can work with them. It takes a trail that would be mundane otherwise and makes it interesting.”

Once the weather warms up, many skijor with inline skates, bikes, or scooters.

Want to see what skijoring is all about?

Attend the 18th Annual Tug Hill Challenge (www.pennsleddogclub. com/events/2010-2011/tughill.html) at Winona State Forest in Lorraine, near Adams in Jefferson County, in late January. The free event includes opportunities to see and talk with competitors from the Pennsylvania Sled Dog Club, watch skijoring and sled dog races.

2011 / 2012

WINTER GUIDE

45

Dog Sledding Brings

Winter Thrills

Local businesses offers great, affordable dog sledding rides

By Deborah Jeanne Sergeant

Y

ou may think of the Klondike when it comes to dog sledding, but the activity has achieved growing popularity in Upstate New York.

Whether you’re interested in watching dog sled racing, going for a ride yourself or even shouting “hike!” and mushing yourself, you can do any of the above in the Empire State.

Roy Smith operates Adirondack Kennel (www.adirondackkennel.org) and offers rides in Winona Forest, near Sandy Creek. He has operated sled dog tours since 2001 and raced dog sleds since 1994.

He offers rides daily from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. (after Jan. 1, rides will be given only Monday through Thursday and by appointment on weekends).

Rides are given in the order of when the reservations were made.

The short ride is between 40 and 45 minutes and uses the vast trail system in Winona Forest for an authentic mushing experience.

The fee is $85 per person for short ride, which includes a few short breaks

46

2011 / 2012

WINTER GUIDE

for photos, offering dog treats, and opportunities for riders to greet the dogs.

Smith’s ride is unique in that he allows customers to drive the dogs for a total of three on the sled at once.

“I follow behind in tow on my own sled in full control yet still give you a feeling of having your own dog team,” Smith said. “You will still help maintain control of your team by steering it and using the brakes and other equipment on hills.”

Smith offers a discount for a larger party: $230 for three and $295 for four.

With groups of four, a passenger will be riding (and switching out positions) on Smith’s towed sled.

The two-hour tour is $175 per person with a two-guest limit.

For children aged 3 or younger, Smith offers a shorter ride with an accompanying parent for a small fee.

Riders may help with harnessing, putting on booties if needed and general set-up if desired.

Since you’ll cover 20 to 30 miles, wear warm clothes, winter boots, and ski goggles or sunglasses. Don’t forget a camera and dog treats. Smith provides

cushions and blankets.

“The bulk of people who take rides have never seen a real sled dog team before nor have the opportunity to do so,” Smith said. “This is a unique experience for them.

“They are also somewhat surprised that the dogs are not the expected Siberian husky, but rather a hybrid of various hounds, huskies and working dogs.”

The speed of the dogsled also surprises many of Smith’s guests: 12 to 15 miles per hour.

Most people are pleasantly surprised at how ‘quick’ we move along the trail, averaging maybe 12-15mph.

For more information, call 315408-7154.

Mike Arnold operates a self-named dog sled ride business in Lake Placid’s Golden Arrow Motor Inn. He has been a dog sledder for 35 years.

“It’s force-fed fresh air,” he said.

“People love the exhilarating feeling.”

His pack of seven to 12 dogs provides a thrilling half-mile ride for $10 per person. He also offers longer rides for custom rates.

Arnold’s customers need not stay

at the Golden Arrow, but to meet him for a ride, they should ask for him at the desk. For more information, call 518-523-3353.

Thunder Mountain Dog Sled Tours operates on the other end of Mirror Lake in Lake Placid. Operator John Houghton describes the half-mile loop as “a fairly quick ride but it gives them a taste of it.”

“It’s a different experience from other things to do in the winter,” Houghton said. “Some people are so amazed that dogs can do it. They think of them as house pets on the couch.

These dogs love doing this work. But people can pet them. People always are petting them.”

He charges $10 per person (up to four at a time, depending upon their size) and operates the business Friday through Monday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and daily during holiday weeks. Riders should meet him behind Players Sports Bar. For more information, call (518) 891-6239.

Watching a Dog Sledding Competition If you’d like to observe competitive dog sledding, check out a local event held at Tug Hill and sponsored by the Pennsylvania Sled Dog Club (www. pennsleddogclub.com/events/20102011/tughill.html). Event organizer Frank Caldwell of Mannsville, said that attendees can “talk to competitors and get a chance to see it.”

Sled dog races include classes for 8-dog, 6-dog, and 4-dog sleds. The event also includes skijoring with 3-dog and 1-dog classes, and a dog weight pull competition.

“It’s like a truck pull,” Caldwell said. “It’s something to do in the winter with their dogs and they don’t like snowmobiles, this works. You can

get out and enjoy the scenery. We love dogs and training them.”

He related that especially the working breed dogs need something to do to remain physically and mentally healthy.

“A husky or malamute is bred to pull,” Caldwell said. “They take to it right away. The main thing is training them to stop; you want them to be enthusiastic but not break the snow hook loose.”

He has seen 35-pound dogs able to pull 1,500 pounds on a sled on packed snow.

“It’s amazing how strong some dogs are, even smaller ones,” Caldwell said.

Photo courtesy of Frank Caldwell 2011 / 2012

WINTER GUIDE

47

Sleigh Rides Offer Old-time Charm

Businesses offer sleigh rides for as little as $5 per person

By Deborah Jeanne Sergeant

S

leigh bells ring. Are you listening?

Enjoy the Central New York winter wonderland via an authentic, horse-drawn sleigh ride.

Here are some places you can check out:

Cooperstown Carriage, Fabius

The business, operated by George Poole, offers sleigh rides from Highland Forest Park in Fabius.

“The atmosphere up here is what makes the horse drawn sleigh ride,” said Charlie Bisnett, a representative of the park.

“The staff at Cooperstown Carriage makes it wonderful because they’re so welcoming to families coming up.”

The Skyline Lodge is available to riders before and after the rides, offering the warmth and ambiance of a stone fireplace and concessions to ward off

48

2011 / 2012

the chill.

The half-hour rides begin in December until there’s not enough snow to accommodate sleigh rides and are offered from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. The cost is $5 per person.

Children younger than 5 are free. For more information, call 607-597-9101 or visit www.onondagacountyparks.com.

In Mexico, Hobby Acres, operated

by Bill Ives, offers a traditional sleigh ride through the woods to a private camp where riders can “have their own winterfest,” Ives said.

Guests are welcomed to bring food to cook on the wood stove in the cabin to make a day of it.

“I’ll help cook or whatever they need,” Ives said.

Hobby Acres, Mexico

WINTER GUIDE

By reservation only, Hobby Acres

offers rides beginning in December, weather permitting from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Rides start at $80 for up to 10 people.

Add $7 for each additional person.

Large groups are encouraged. For more information, call 315-963-3586.

Partnership for Community Development, Hamilton

In the Village of Hamilton, Pa r t n e r s h i p f o r C o m m u n i t y Development hosts horse-drawn trolley rides as part of Hamilton’s annual Storybook Holiday event. While not actual sleigh rides, they are festive and horse-drawn.

“You can’t count on snow that early in the season,” said Rig Wilson, event planner.

“Using draft horses and hearing carolers from Colgate University make it special, along with cocoa afterwards

in front of the history town hall,” he added.

Thanks to sponsorship provided by Hamilton Lions Club and the Colgate Inn, the rides are free. They begin Dec. 2 and start at Colgate Inn on Payne Street.

The Granger Homestead and Carriage Museum, Canandaigua

The 1816 mansion offers vintage charm and the sleigh ride is no different.

A period sleigh whisks up to three passengers through its 12 acres, which include wooded area, meadow, and along the street.

The Federal-style mansion was owned by Gideon Granger, the third postmaster general of the US and took two and a half years to build.

“We have the largest collection of horse drawn vehicles in Western New York,” said Jane Sheetz Clark representing the museum.

The collection includes farm equipment, carriages, hearses, sleighs,

fire equipment and a hearse on sleigh runners.

“The collection is phenomenal,” Sheetz Clark said. “We have three barns worth!”

Although the unheated barns aren’t open during the winter, the mansion is open for tours Tuesday, Wednesday and Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m. and Thursday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Adult admission is $6, seniors $5, and children Kindergarten through 12th grade, $2 The 10-minute sleigh rides are available each Sunday in January, February and March from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., weather dependent. No reservations are required, but check the website or call ahead to 585-394-1472 to make sure there’s enough snow for the rides.

By reservation, you can treat your sweetheart to a romantic Valentine’s ride, which includes a long-stemmed rose, box of chocolates, and hot chocolate after the ride for $50 per couple. Check www.grangerhomestead.org or call

(585) 394-1472 for more information.

Wm. R. Heberle Stables, Rochester

At Wm. R. Heberle Stables in Rochester, the sleigh ride lends an oldfashioned ambiance as the route winds through picturesque Ellison Park. You’ll feel like you’re going to Grandmother’s house over the bridges and through the pine woods.

Heather Heberle, a farm owner, said, “It’s a beautiful ride through the park.

It’s very quiet.”

Unlike many outings, “it can be romantic or a family activity,” Heberle said. “We’ve had a lot of proposals on the sleigh.”

The 30-minute rides may be scheduled for any time any day of the week, weather permitting, between December and April.

Heberle Stables charges $75 per half hour. The sleigh seats up to four adults comfortably. For more information, call 585-654-9027 or email hheberle@rochester.rr.com.

Photos courtesy of Onondaga County Parks 2011 / 2012

WINTER GUIDE

49

Moonlit Fun:

Lights on the Lake

The exhibit is comprised of about 276 displays, many of which include multiple pieces

By Deborah Jeanne Sergeant

I

t’s tempting to curl up on the sofa with a warm beverage and good book on cold winter evenings. But when cabin fever strikes, enjoy fun family events after dark in Central New York.

Beginning Nov. 17 through Jan. 8, check out Syracuse’s Wegmans Lights on the Lake (www.lightsonthelake. com) nightly from 5 to 10 p.m. (closed New Year’s Eve) to get in the swing of the holiday season. This family-friendly display stretches two miles down the Onondaga Lake Park’s paved running, showcasing spectacular holiday scenes blazing in multi-colored lights, some of which arch over the road itself.

“Lights on the Lake has clearly become a tradition in many households as we are now seeing people who visited the show as children bringing their own young families,” said Robin Augello, speaking on behalf of Onondaga County Parks. “What’s special about the experience is that it gives folks a chance to spend quality time together and embrace the joy of the season.”

Last year, 38,554 vehicles toured Lights on the Lake. The exhibit is comprised of approximately 276 displays, many of which include multiple pieces.

50

2011 / 2012

See Santa and other costumed characters along with thousands of twinkling lights at Lights on the Lake beginning in November through Jan. 8. Photo courtesy of Onondaga County Parks The displays include themes such as the Wizard of Oz, Fantasy Forest, Victorian Village, and Fairytale Magic and much more. See traditional Christmas and Hanukkah characters and themes in lights.

New displays this year include a three-piece animated lacrosse scene with two players in orange, in honor of SU, a Jack-in-the-box, a stingray scene and more. While driving through, tune into Sunny 102 to listen to holiday music.

Admission is $8 per car or motorcycle Monday through Thursday (present a Wegmans Shoppers Club Card for $2 off on Mondays and Tuesdays. Visitors with a Driver’s Village or Burdick Automotive license plate frame will get $2 off on Wednesdays). Friday, Saturday and Sunday, it’s $12 per car or motorcycle.

Motorcoaches are $75. Group discounts

WINTER GUIDE

for businesses are available.

AmeriCU Credit Union’s First Night celebrates the first day of 2012 with a family oriented festival and one last chance to walk through Lights on the Lake. Enjoy live music all evening.

At 11:59, the giant glowing orange will drop to signal the start of the New Year, followed by fireworks over Onondaga Lake.

Pre-sale tickets are $5 and at the gate, tickets are $8. Children five and younger are free. Vended refreshments will be available. No dogs permitted.

Work off some of those holiday treats at the “Run Through Lights on the Lake” Jan. 7. Starting at 11 p.m. at the Griffin Visitor Center, runners will go to Willow Bay and back for a total of four miles. No dogs or walkers are allowed. The event is free.

2011 / 2012

WINTER GUIDE

51

WHERE TO GO, WHAT TO DO. MAPS. CALENDAR OF EVENTS

CENTRAL NEW YORK’S LIGHT & SUPER DUTY TRUCK

headquarters BURDICK FORD

2010

3 Years in a Row!

RECOGNIZED FOR OUTSTANDING CUSTOMER SERVICE • 315-668-7102 Route 49 @ I-81 (Exit 32), Central Square, NY • www.DriversVillage.com

BURDICK TOYOTA SCION

AT DRIVER’S VILLAGE, CICERO

BURDICK TOYOTA-SCION 2010

5947 2011 E. Circle Drive, Cicero • Near I-81 & 481 intersection • www.DriversVillage.com 52 / 2012 WINTER GUIDE