February%202017%20parent

FEBRUARY 2017

u fl e h t h t i w e n o

Tips

e m o s r o f g n i r a for c

LENTINE A V R E H T MO n’s oma How one w ed a idea launch ss card busine

some helpful information for your family

family

FYI

Times, they are a changin’ re

School-related functions weren’t the only thing Last spring when we were going to parent meetings B er g a m o- M re n oo and middle school orientations for The Boy, the missing. As The Boy’s interests changed, so did a K husband and I were given oodles of information. another social circle. We were no longer basketball parents or Scout parents, and thereby lost that We were told - repeatedly - of all the changes that regular contact we had amid those circles. were coming.

My knee-jerk reaction was “OMG! Did I do There would be new experiences, new friends, new responsibilities, new activities, something wrong? Is everyone getting together new pressures. New. New New. By the time without me?” A couple quick texts assured me that it wasn’t me. No one was seeing anyone we finished the gauntlet of meetings we felt well A mo casually. prepared. e v ther ’s perspecti Many parents with newly-minted middle schoolers What I wasn’t prepared for was how the change of were in a state of flux as we navigated our new, seemingly schools was going to affect my social life.

Gone were the days of school assemblies, class parties and less-involved roles in our children’s lives. We now have to make field trips where I not only saw what The Boy was up to, but an effort to retain the ties that bind beyond a social media post also visited with fellow parents who over the years became my and a text.

Future middle school (and later high school) orientations might friends.

I didn’t notice it at first. I only noticed that I wasn’t arranging be well served to include a few moments reminding parents my work schedule around the aforementioned events and was that there will be changes for us too, but like our kids, we will able to take lunch more often instead of using the time to go to manage and adapt. the Vocabulary Parade.

Karen Bergamo Moore lives in Camillus with her husband and Somewhere around October, I realized I hadn’t seen a number son. She works in the communications office at the SUNY College of of people I had grown accustomed to seeing at the school who I Environmental Science and Forestry, is active in Boy Scouts and enjoys running 5Ks with her son. Follow her on twitter at @kmoore623. then would go for a cup of coffee with afterwards.

FEBRUARY 2017 SYRACUSE PARENT

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meals in minutes

fast and easy meals to get your family to the table on time

healthy snacks

Celebrate both National Heart and National Snack Food Month with these tasty, good-for-you recipes

Apple nachos Ingredients

Roasted chick peas A great alternative to reaching into that bag of chips!

1/3 cup dried cranberries or raisins 1/4 cup sliced almonds (unsalted) 2 Tbsp hulled, unsalted sunflower seeds 3 red or green apples, cored and

Directions

Combine dried cranberries/ raisins, almonds, and sunflower seeds. Core each apple and thinly slice into about 12

Ingredients

2 Tbsps olive oil 1 Tbsp cumin 1 tsp garlic powder 1/2 tsp chili powder 1 pinch each, salt and pepper 1 dash crushed red pepper 1 can chickpeas, rinsed and drained

Directions

Preheat an oven to 350 degrees. Mix oil, cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, sea salt, black pepper and red pepper together, then add chickpeas and toss.

Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 45 minutes or until browned, stirring a few times.

thinly sliced into about 12 pieces each 1-2 tsp lemon juice 2 Tbsp water 1/4 cup reduced-fat, smooth peanut butter 1 Tbsp honey pieces each. Layer half the apples onto a large plate or platter. If the apple slices will be sitting out for a while, sprinkle a little lemon juice over them to prevent browning. Using the microwave or a teapot, bring 2 tablespoons water to a boil.

In a small bowl, combine hot water, peanut butter, and honey. Use a spoon and stir until mixture is smooth. Use the spoon to drizzle half the peanut butter mixture over the plated apple slices; sprinkle with half the cranberry mixture.

Layer the remaining apples on top and repeat with remaining peanut butter and cranberry mixture. Makes six servings.

Source: American Heart Association; for more recipes visit heart.org/simplecooking.

Artichoke, spinach & bean dip Ingredients 2 1 4 1

cups artichoke hearts Tbsp black pepper cups chopped spinach tsp minced dried thyme

2 cloves garlic, minced 1 Tbsp minced parsley 1 cup cooked cannellini beans 2 Tbsps grated parmesan cheese 1/2 cup low fat sour cream

Directions

Heat oven to 350 degrees.

Mix all ingredients and bake for 30 minutes.

Ser ve w it your fav h orite vegetab les!

what’s inside

contents

learning curve 3 Times, they are a-changin’.

11 Screening our kids’ screen time.

13 Before you recycle that newspaper ... try some educational exercises.

16 Have a heart by learning CPR: Learn how to save a life during National Heart Month.

from the editor 6 My thoughts on kids in the kitchen.

meals in minutes 4 Celebrate both National Heart and

National Snack Food Month with these tasty, good-for-you recipes.

feature story 7

The tale of Cupid.

calendar 8 What’s happening around you.

healthy family 15 Tips for caring for someone with the flu.

history FYI Mother Valentine.

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FEBRUARY 2017 SYRACUSE PARENT

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from the editor

My thoughts on kids in the kitchen I’m all for teaching kids to cook.

I think FACS (family and consumer science, a subject in the Fayetteville-Manlius School District formerly known as home economics) is wonderful.

Through this class, my children learned to fry an egg, make cookies and other goodies and, supposedly, clean up.

I say supposedly because they don’t seem to have retained that tidbit of knowledge.

For Christmas, wanting to support their newlyJennifer Wing minted culinary skills, I fulfilled my offsprings’ wish Editor for both a deep fryer and waffle maker. Both items have seen quite a bit of use, with a lot of success and fanfare. The cleanup end of things has not been as successful, however.

It seems there is now a sheen on our counter where the remnants of whatever fried cheese or potato creation was half-heartedly smeared about with a paper towel.

Likewise, it appears the waffle maker’s exterior has a candle-like appearance where overflow was left behind as a reminder of breakfasts past.

I know, I know ... I am as much at fault as my two chefs, since: 1. I purchased the electronics, and am therefore culpable in their misuse.

2. I have a hard time enforcing the cleanup necessary in messy situations.

So, I will tell you now, do not do as I’ve done. Before you purchase any tools of the kitchen trade, set guidelines and maybe do a few trial runs in order to assess your progeny’s willingness and ability to abide by them.

Although I love that my “Master Chefs” are learning new skills, I need to make sure the follow-through on their dishes is complete. At least that is what I tell myself as I soak my cookie trays and scrub the burners on my stove.

I guess the bigger question at this point is, are my kids already the “old dogs” to whom I cannot teach new tricks? At the young ages of 13 and 14? I hope not, although I do know that at some point in their lives, whether it’s at college, in a work situation or when they have their own homes, they will learn that old adage – “It’s your mess – you clean it up” – even if it’s not me that teaches them.

Jennifer Wing can be reached at jwing@eaglenewsonline.com.

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SYRACUSE PARENT FEBRUARY 2017

publisher

David B. Tyler 434-8889 ext. 302 dtyler@eaglenewsonline.com

editor

Jennifer Wing 434-8889 ext. 340 jwing@eaglenewsonline.com

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business manager

Luba Demkiv

434-8889 ext. 303 ldemkiv@eaglenewsonline.com

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We want your news! Contributions can be sent to Jen Wing, Editor, Syracuse Parent Magazine, 2501 James Street, Suite 100 Syracuse, New York 13206. Original contributions become the property of Syracuse Parent Magazine. Contributions cannot be acknowledged or returned. To contact us please call 315.434.8889, or fax 315.434.8883 Syracuse Parent Magazine is a unit of Community Media Group LLC. Published monthly. Deadline for advertising and calendar events is the 10th day of the month preceding publication. Display advertising rates available upon request. Syracuse Parent Magazine reserves the right to refuse advertising for any reason. We do not guarantee any of the information, services, or products published in this or any issue. The opinions expressed by contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this paper. Copyright © 2008 by Syracuse Parent Magazine. No portion of Syracuse Parent Magazine may be reproduced without permission from the editor.

The tale of Cupid

By Tresa Erickson

The approach of Valentine’s Day brings many images to mind—red and pink balloons, lacy cards, candy hearts, boxed chocolates, fuzzy teddy bears, long-stemmed roses, diamond pendants and candlelit dinners. No Valentine’s Day would be complete, however, without mention of the god Cupid. Legend has it that anyone struck by one of the god’s arrows would fall madly in love with another.

Cupid, of course, is a mythological figure. In Greek mythology, he goes by the name of Cupid and is the son of Aphrodite, the goddess of love.

In Roman mythology, he goes by the name of Eros and is the son of Venus, the goddess of love. Aphrodite, or Venus if you prefer, is a stunningly beautiful, wildly passionate, possessive goddess who guards her relationship with her children carefully.

As the story goes, all is well with Cupid and his mother until he falls in love with a beautiful maiden named Psyche. Psyche rivals Aphrodite in beauty. People are naturally drawn to her and begin worshipping her more than they do Aphrodite. This infuriates the goddess, and she orders her son Cupid to make Psyche fall in love with a monster of her choosing. Cupid agrees, but as he is about to pierce the maiden with his arrow, she awakens and startles him, causing him to prick himself instead. Cupid flies off, madly in love with Psyche.

Upon learning what has happened, Aphrodite curses Psyche to live the rest of her days alone. Now in love with the maiden, Cupid is angered by his mother’s actions and retaliates by vowing not to shoot any more arrows.

Love stops, the renewal of life ends, and Aphrodite’s temple is deserted.

Aphrodite becomes concerned and strikes a deal with Cupid. She will permit him to marry Psyche if he resumes his work. Cupid agrees.

Meanwhile back on earth, Psyche’s parents become worried when no suitors come calling.

They find out what

Aphrodite has done and attempt to appease the goddess with the sacrifice of their young daughter. Cupid rescues Psyche and asks her to marry him—on one condition—that she not see him until the time is right. Psyche agrees to Cupid’s stipulation and only has contact with him at night in total darkness.

Psyche enjoys living in the lap of luxury in Cupid’s castle but soon grows homesick. Cupid arranges for her sisters to visit. Upon seeing how well Psyche is living, the sisters become jealous and convince Psyche that her husband must be some sort of monster, just waiting to fatten her up before he kills her and her unborn child. They encourage Psyche to kill her husband before he kills her.

Psyche doesn’t want to believe her sisters, but one night, curiosity gets the best of her and she lights a candle.

Psyche is stunned at what she sees.

Instead of a horrific monster, she finds an exquisite god. Psyche falls madly in love with Cupid and begins to kiss him when a bit of the candle wax drips onto the god’s shoulder. Cupid awakes with a start, sees what has

happened and leaves in anger.

Psyche searches for Cupid for days to no avail. She pleads for the goddesses to help her, but they all send her to Aphrodite. Reluctantly, she goes to the goddess’ temple and asks for her help. Aphrodite agrees to help, but first Psyche must complete a series of tasks, each one harder than the last.

Psyche succeeds with assistance from others and is given one final task, to take a box to Hades and capture some of Persephone’s beauty. Before she leaves on her quest, Aphrodite warns Psyche not to open the box.

Psyche completes the task, but once again, curiosity gets the best of her and she opens the box. What she finds inside is not beauty but eternal slumber, which overcomes her. No longer angry, Cupid comes to the aid of Psyche again. This time, however, he consults the gods for help. They revive Psyche and make her a goddess. She reconciles with Aphrodite and gives birth to a daughter named Pleasure.

There are many variations to this story, of course. All, however, tell a story of love. How befitting for a god who brings people together to fall in love himself.

FEBRUARY 2017 SYRACUSE PARENT

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Is Your Medicine Cabinet Safe?

The majority of teens are getting them from the medicine cabinets of family and friends

1 in 5 teen report abusing prescription drugs Talk with your kids about the safe use and risk of prescription drugs and OTC medicines.

calendar

here is what’s happening around you

Through February Snow Leopard Days

Rosamond Gifford Zoo, 1 Conservation Place, Syracuse; rosamondgiffordzoo.org.

Zoo goers will enjoy half price admission during the months of January and February.

Bundle up this winter, wander the Wildlife Trails and see animals playing in the snow for an incredible experience. For those who prefer to keep warm, indoor exhibits offer plenty of entertainment.

Through March 3

See The Best of Teen Art Weekdays 9 a.m. – 7 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 9 a.m. – 6 p.m., through March 3 (Closed Jan. 16 for MLK Day), Whitney Applied Technology Center, Onondaga Community College, 4585 W. Seneca Turnpike, Syracuse.

Featuring winners of CNY Scholastic Art Awards. See over 1,000 award-winning artworks by CNY junior and senior high students. Free. Schedule group visits: s.l.germain@sunyocc.edu or call 498-7212.

Friday, Feb. 3

Syracuse Silver Knights vs Milwaukee Wave 7:30 p.m., The Oncenter War Memorial Arena, 515 Montgomery St., Syracuse; syracusesilverknights.com.

Great professional indoor soccer that’s fun for the whole family to watch. Ticket prices vary.

Friday-Saturday, Feb. 3- 4 “The Music Man”

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8 p.m. Jan. 20,21, 27 and 28 and Feb. 3 and 4; 3 p.m. Jan. 29; Presbyterian Education Center, 64 Oswego St., Baldwinsville; baldwinsvilletheatreguild.org.

Celebrating its 75th anniversary, the Baldwinsville Theatre Guild presents Meredith Willson’s “The Music Man.” There’s Trouble in River City with 76 trombones and a big parade in this funny, warm, romantic and touching musical that is fun for the whole family! Tickets are $20-$25.

For talking tips 471-1359

preventionnetworkcny.org 8

SYRACUSE PARENT FEBRUARY 2017

Friday-Sunday, Feb 3-5 Jurassic Quest

3-8 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday; 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Sunday; Tractor Supply Co. Exhibit Center and Science & Industry Building at Empire Expo Center-NYS Fairgrounds, Syracuse; 487-7711, jurassicquest.com.

A dinosaur adventure for the whole family with the largest exhibition of lifesize, moving, museum-quality dinosaurs in North America.

The main dinosaur exhibit features ultra-realistic,

life-size animatronic dinosaurs; more than 50 life-size dinosaurs in all. Visitors can interact with these huge creatures, learn about them and even ride a few. It features realistic scenes, enormous dinosaurs, cute baby dinosaurs and lots of fun activities for kids of all ages. There are huge T-Rex and Triceratops fossil digs where young paleontologists can uncover long hidden dinosaurs bones, the “Dino Bounce” area with several, towering, dinosaur theme inflatable mazes, face painting, Dino crafts and more.

Admission: ages 2-12, $15; Kids VIP $24; ages 13-64, $20; ages 65 and up, $18.

Saturday, Feb. 4

Symphoria Kids II: Wild Things 10:30-11:30 a.m., Inspiration Hall, 709 James St., Syracuse; experiencesymphoria.org.

Explore the stories, sights, and sounds of animals and other wild things with this program that is specially created for children under age six. Ticket prices vary; 18 and under free.

Animal Winter Survival 2-4 p.m., Green Lakes State Park, Fayetteville; 637-6111.

See a presentation about how animals adapt to the harsh winter environment. Then take a walk with wildlife biologists to identify tracks in the snow. Dress for the weather and walking on trails. Free and open to the public.

Saturday-Sunday, Feb. 4-5 Symphoria Pops Series III: Cirque De La Symphonie Returns

7:30-9:30 p.m. Saturday; 1:30-3:30 p.m. Sunday;The Oncenter Civic Center Theaters, 421 Montgomery St., Syracuse; experiencesymphoria.org.

Aerial flyers, acrobats, contortionists, dancers, jugglers and balancers perform with professional choreography to some of the most popular classical masterpieces and contemporary music.

Ticket prices vary; 18 and under free.

Feb. 4-26

Try Snowshoeing 12:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, Beaver Lake Nature Center, Baldwinsville; 638-2519.

This snowshoe clinic will include instructions and a short snowshoe hike. Visitors with little or no snowshoe experience will especially enjoy this one-hour introduction. Registration is required beginning at 8 a.m. the day of the hike and space is limited. This program will be offered only when snow conditions are acceptable. $5 per person, includes snowshoe rentals; Admission Fee: $4 per vehicle.

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FEBRUARY 2017 SYRACUSE PARENT

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calendar

here is what’s happening around you

Monday, Feb 6

Haunted Onondaga County 7-8:30 p.m., Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St,; lpl.org.

Author Neil K. MacMillan talks about his new book, which includes stories about haunted spots at Syracuse University, Woodlawn Cemetery, the Clay Hotel, the Ancestor’s Inn and Syracuse City Hall. He’ll sign purchased books.

Free admission.

Thursday, Feb 9 Newsboys

7 p.m., Landmark Theatre, 362 S. Salina St., Syracuse; landmarktheatre.org.

The Grammy-nominated mega group Newsboys has extended their “Love Riot Tour.”

Helping define the sound of Christian music for more than two decades, Newsboys’ live performances continue to sell out venues across the country. Ticket prices vary.

Trail Tales 1 p.m. , Beaver Lake Nature Center, Baldwinsville; 638-2519.

Perfect for pre-school aged children 3 to 5 years old, accompanied by an adult. A naturalist will first read two stories to the children and then lead the group out on a hike themed to match the stories. Free with nature center admission.

Friday-Saturday, Feb. 10-11 Syracuse Crunch Hockey

7 p.m. vs. Binghamton Senators Friday and vs. Rochester Americans Saturday , The Oncenter War Memorial Arena, 515 Montgomery St., Syracuse; syracusecrunch.com.

Professional hockey at its finest! Enjoy great family entertainment with the Syracuse Crunch Hockey team. Ticket prices vary.

Valentine Crafts and a Movie 1-7:30 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Green Lakes State Park Office, Fayetteville; 6376111.

Make a valentine for that special someone while watching the movies “Tangled” or “Lady and the Tramp.” All materials are supplied - Free and open to the public.

Friday, Sunday, Feb. 10, 12 Syracuse Opera presents Verdi’s “Rigoletto”

8 p.m. Friday, 2 p.m. Sunday, The Oncenter Civic Center Theaters, 421 Montgomery St., Syracuse; syracuseopera.org.

A curse hounds the court jester Rigoletto, whose attempts to keep his precious daughter Gilda out of the hands of the lecherous Duke

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of Mantua brings tragedy. Featuring Italian conductor Christian Capocaccia, the opera is sung in Italian with projected English translations.

All attendees are invited to a free conductor pre-talk an hour prior to each production. Ticket prices vary.

Feb. 10-19

Syracuse Shakespeare Festival presents “Noises Off” 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 2 p.m.

Sundays; Empire Theater, Empire Expo CenterNYS Fairgrounds, Syracuse; 487-7711, syrsf. org.

Get a great view of the intricate, farcical, personal and hilarious antics of a hapless group of actors from the audience perspective and from back stage. A fantastic farce can lead to the craziest situations involving multiple love triangles, scantily clad women, a nose bleeder who fears blood and violence, fish, phones, booze, an axe and lots of slamming doors all while you see a bad play from the audience and a worse one from back stage. Ticket prices vary.

Saturday, Feb. 11 Cupid’s Chase 5k

Registration is at 10 a.m.; Race starts at 11 a.m.; Onondaga Lake Park, Liverpool; comop. org.

Community Options Inc. invites runners, walkers, and rollers (baby strollers and wheelchairs) to help make difference in the lives of people with disabilities by participating in our annual Cupid’s Chase 5K. Registration is $25 until Dec. 31; $30 Jan. 1 – Feb. 10 and $40 race day.

Family Train Day 10 a.m.-1 p.m., the commons at Burdick’s Driver’s Village, Cicero.

Trains, trains and more trains running on the large indoor layout as well as loops on the floor and a kiddie’s play area. Free. Sponsored by the Central New York Large Scale Railway Society.

Spark II: Dvorak and Dessert 7:30 p.m., SKY Armory, 351 S. Clinton St., Syracuse; experiencesymphoria.org.

The Symphoria string section takes the lead with the Dvorák Serenade. Multiple ensembles will perform throughout the evening as the music is paired with a special selection of dessert offerings from the SKY Armory pastry chef. .

Tickets are $20-$25, college $5, 18 and under free.

Sensory Friendly Time at the MOST 5:30-7:30 p.m., Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science & Technology, 500 S Franklin St., Syracuse; 425-9068 ext. 2132, most.org.

Staff turns down the noise, turns off flashing lights, and shuts off the air compressors so people with sensory processing challenges can enjoy the museum. The museum also offers quiet areas where participants can sit, relax, and regroup.

Saturday-Sunday, Feb 11-12 Syracuse Super Swap 2017

11 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Sunday,Center of Progress Building, Empire Expo Center-NYS Fairgrounds, Syracuse; 472.7931, syracusesuperswap.com.

The largest motorcycle showcase and swap meet under one roof in the Northeast with new and used motorcycles to state-of-the-art parts and bikes. Adults: Saturday $15, Sunday $12; Children 16 and under get in free.

Sunday, Feb. 12 Sweet Treats

10 a.m.-3 p.m., Rosamond Gifford Zoo, Syracuse; rosamondgiffordzoo.org.

Watch the Rosamond Gifford Zoo’s animals receive special Valentine treats and heart-shaped items throughout the day as part of the zoo’s enrichment program. Free with zoo admission.

Monday, Feb. 13

SU Men’s Basketball vs Louisville 7 p.m., Carrier Dome, Syracuse. Ticket prices vary; cuse.com.

Owl Night Long 6 p.m., Beaver Lake Nature Center, Baldwinsville.

Snowshoe or hike in search of Beaver Lake’s elusive owl species. Before heading out on the trail learn about the habits of Owls and how to identify them by sight and call. Then venture out into the silent winter forest to try to get a glimpse of or hear the haunting call of the mysterious nocturnal birds. $2 per person. Advance registration required; 638-2519.

Thursday-Sunday, Feb 16-19 Central New York Boat Show 2017

1-9 p.m. Thursday-Friday, 10 a.m.-9 p.m.

Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday, State Fairgrounds, Syracuse; cnywinterboatshow.com.

Featuring more than 500 all-new models of power and sail boats, including cruisers, sport boats, pontoon boats, personal watercraft and docks in three huge buildings at the New York State Fairgrounds. Boats will be on display in the Center of Progress, Horticulture Building and the huge Exhibit Center Buildining. There will also be in-water demonstrations, a New York State Boating Information Center and more. Adults $10; children 13 and under get in free.

continued on page 12 SYRACUSE PARENT FEBRUARY 2017

learning curve

Screening our kids’

screen time Recently, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) updated its outdated guidelines on children’s screen time.

Previously, the AAP set a simple recommendation of no more than two hours in front of the TV for kids over the age of 2. However, today our children are growing up in a pervasive digital environment. The landscape has changed from a passive TV screen experience to multiple interactive screens.

The statistics are astounding. For example, today teens spend nine hours a day using media — that’s more than

teens spend sleeping, on average. This dramatic change in technology required updating AAP guidelines.

First, we must answer the question, what is “screen time”? The AAP defines it as time spent using digital media for “entertainment purposes.” To the dismay of kids, and to the joy of parents, online homework does not count as screen time.

No screen time for infants 18 months and younger

Eliminating screen time for babies is important for brain development.

To develop thinking, verbal, motor and social skills, babies need handson exploration and social interaction without being overstimulated. The noise and lights of a screen can be distracting for a baby, even without looking directly at the screen. For example, if the TV is on in the background while a mother is breast feeding, this can be overstimulating for her baby, potentially causing distress and sleep problems.

FREE

Prenatal Consultation!

One hour of screen time for children 2 to 5 years of age Video-chatting with grandma and grandpa today? That’s okay, according to the AAP. The guideline cites emerging evidence showing that at two years of age, children can learn words and be emotionally involved while videochatting with family. One key note is that parental involvement is important

continued on page 15

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By Dr. Fazia Bakshi

Pediatric Associates, LLC Caring for Syracuse’s youth since 1968

Staff on call 24 HO

URS A day!

CAMILLUS

270 Township Blvd.

Phone: 487-1541

LIVERPOOL

8086 Oswego Rd. Phone: 652-1070

www.pediatricassociatesny.com

FEBRUARY 2017 SYRACUSE PARENT

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calendar

here is what’s happening around you

Thursday-Sunday, Feb 16-26 Syracuse WinterFest 2017

Times vary; check syracusewinterfest.com for the schedule of events.

From the center of downtown Syracuse to surrounding areas throughout Onondaga County, everyone joins in the celebration. Kids will be kids, even when they’re middle-aged.

And there are no age limits when it comes to enjoying the displays, entertainment, games and culinary delights created by hundreds of hands. With more than 100,000 people attending dozens of indoor and outdoor events, parties, cook-offs, various competitions plus an abundance of other activities, Syracuse Winterfest draws the second largest audience in all of Central New York.

Friday, Feb. 17 Winter Stars

7-9 p.m. Green Lakes State Park, Fayetteville; 637-6111.

See the winter skies at their finest! Venus attains its greatest brilliance on February 18th and has swollen to almost four times the size it had appeared back in July 2016. The area around the constellation of Orion has more bright stars, nebulae, and clusters than any other part of the sky. If cloudy event will be rescheduled for Saturday Feb. 18. Free and open to the public.

Saturday, Feb. 18

Symphoria Masterworks Series V: Red Violin 7:30 p.m., The Oncenter Civic Center Theaters, 421 Montgomery St., Syracuse; experiencesymphoria.org.

Elina Vähälä makes her first appearance with Symphoria in this performance of Corigliano’s “Red Violin Concerto.” This concert also features the “Redline Tango” and two works of Barber and Gershwin that premiered nine years apart. Ticket prices vary;18 and under are free.

TACNY Junior Café Scientifique: Water Pathogens 9:30-11 a.m., Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science & Technology, Syracuse; most.org.

Charles T. Driscoll, PhD, a professor in Syracuse University’s College of Engineering and Computer Science, will discuss how English physician John Snow traced the cause of an 1854 cholera outbreak to contaminated water, and how that discovery improved public health. “There are many types of water pathogens, or disease-causing organisms, that have been discovered since the time of John

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Snow that we will discuss, including the toxic algae blooms we are experiencing today,” he said. A light breakfast is provided. Participants must be accompanied by an adult. The event is free, but TACNY asks that you RSVP to jrcafe@ tacny.org. After the event, participants are welcome to explore the museum at half-price: $6 for adults and $5 for children 2-11.

Feb. 18-26

Winter Break Activities at the Zoo 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Rosamond Gifford Zoo, Syracuse; rosamondgiffordzoo.org.

Beat the winter blues with a visit to the Rosamond Gifford Zoo! Enjoy animal demonstrations and meet the keeper sessions for a chance to learn what happens “behind the scenes.” Free with zoo admission.

Monday–Friday, Feb. 20-24 Winter Vacation Camp

9 a.m.–3 p.m., Beaver Lake Nature Center, Baldwinsville; onondagacountyparks. com.

First through fourth graders are invited to a Winter Camp filled with nature-related activities, crafts and games. Beat the winter blues with fun-packed indoor and outdoor adventures. Register for just one day or all five. $35 per child, per day. Advance registration required; 638-2519.

Winter Wonders Week Schedule varies, see below; Beaver Lake Nature Center, Baldwinsville; 638-2519.

During School vacation there will be guided snowshoe walks and critter talks daily for families and individuals. Walk down one of the Nature Center’s trails tracking winter wildlife. Learn about beaver, turtles, hawks, or other wildlife in the Visitor Center. Schedule: 10 a.m. Monday and Wednesday,Try Snowshoeing; 10 a.m.

Tuesday and Thursday, Snow Sculptures; 10 a.m. Friday, Build a Snow Cave; 1:30 p.m.

Monday-Friday, Creature Feature; 2 p.m.

Monday-Friday, Snowshoeing. Free with nature center admission.

Wednesday, Feb. 22

SU Men’s Basketball vs. Duke 7 p.m., Carrier Dome, Syracuse. Ticket prices vary; cuse.com.

Friday, Sunday, Feb. 24, 26 Syracuse Silver Knights Soccer

7:30 p.m. Friday vs. Baltimore Blast; 4 p.m. Sunday vs. Florida Tropics, The Oncenter War Memorial Arena, 515 Montgomery St.,

SYRACUSE PARENT FEBRUARY 2017

Syracuse; syracusesilverknights.com.

Great professional indoor soccer that’s fun for the whole family to watch. Ticket prices vary.

Saturday, Feb 25

Crunch vs. Rochester Americans 7 p.m., The Oncenter War Memorial Arena, 515 Montgomery St, Syracuse, Ticket prices vary; syracusecrunch.com.

Sunday, Feb. 26

Open House and Train Show 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Eastwood American Legion Hall, corner of Nichols Avenue and James Street, Syracuse; syracusemodelrr. org, 706-7580.

The Syracuse Model Railroad Club hosts its 33rd annual event. Admission is $4 adult, $2 12 and under, $12 family maximum. Two HO layouts, LEGO layout and dealers selling train models and railroad items. The entire Thomas gang will attend.

Lake Effect Half Marathon 9 a.m. - Moose Mile (free); 9:30 a.m.

- Half Marathon; Onondaga Lake Park, Liverpool; lakeeffecthalfmarathon.com.

Tuesday-Thursday, Feb 28-March 2

Riverdance 20th Anniversary 7:30 p.m., The Oncenter Civic Center Theaters, 421 Montgomery St., Syracuse; oncenter.org.

The international Irish dance phenomenon is back by popular demand, coming directly to North America from a sold out run across Europe and Asia. Ticket prices vary.

March 1-26

“Ain’t Misbehavin’ The Fats Waller Musical Show” Syracuse Stage, 820 East Genesee St., Syracuse; Showtimes and ticket prices vary; syracusestage.org.

Step back into the sparkling nightlife of a 1930s jazz club in this celebration of the jazz legend Fats Waller. From Uptown to Tin Pan Alley to Hollywood, Waller’s music helped define the swinging sound of the Golden Age of the Cotton Club. Music, dance, sassy repartee and a whole lot of fun with 29 famous songs including “‘T Ain’t Nobody’s Biz-ness If I Do,” “Honeysuckle Rose,” “The Joint is Jumpin’” and “I Can’t Give You Anything But Love.”

the ins and outs of educational and stimulating activities for your children

Before you recycle that

newspaper... ou love Saturday mornings. You get up early, grab the paper from your doorstep and sit down at the table with a cup of coffee. You spend an hour paging through the paper, reading this and that, until everyone else in the house starts stirring. Then it’s time for you to toss the newspaper aside and get on with life. On your way out of the door, you clear the table and slide the newspaper into the recycle bin. Wait! Before you get rid of that paper, consider how much good it would do in the hands of a student.

Newspapers make excellent teaching tools and can be used to create a number of exercises to improve and expand students’ skills in several areas from science to math

Try out some educational exercises

to art and music. Yes, that’s right. Parents and teachers alike can use the newspaper to design a number of art and music exercises for their students. Here are some examples: • Ask students to cut out several newspaper columns and use them to make paper chains.

• Ask students to cut some newspaper into strips and use them to create paper-mâché objects.

• Ask students to read the comics and create their own comic strip.

• Ask students to select a newspaper article and create an illustration for it.

• Ask students to select a public figure mentioned in the newspaper and paint a portrait of them.

• Ask students to clip words, phrases and photos from the newspaper and use them to make an abstract self-portrait.

• Ask students to name a dozen of their favorite songs and determine in which section of the newspaper each would fall.

• Ask students to read the front-page articles and select a song to accompany each.

• Ask students to select a newspaper article and write a song about it.

• Ask students to select a newspaper ad and write a jingle for it.

• Ask students to read a newspaper musical review and write an essay discussing why they are or are not interested in the piece.

• Ask students to attend a local performance and write their own newspaper review of it.

These are just 12 of the tons of exercises you could create to help students develop their art and music skills. Who knew that, after reading, the newspaper could still be so valuable?

WANDERERS’ REST HUMANE ASSOCIATION

Now Offering Humane Education for all Youth Groups!

• In-School Classroom Visits Accompanied by a Pet • In- Shelter Tours and Youth Donation Projects • Civic Groups and Merit Badge Programs • Creative Projects Offered for Groups - Ask us for details!

WRHA’s School Visits seen here with “Manny” a shelter dog!

For more information call: Joanne Cronan-Hamoy, Humane Educator Call (315) 697-2796 x. 102 or E-mail: wrhaprograms@aol.com

7138 Sutherland Dr. PO Box 535 Canastota, NY 13032

(315) 697-2796

www.WanderersRest.org

CORPORATE PARTNER

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By Tresa Erickson

learning curve

humane association

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healthy family

tips and ideas for keeping your family fast, fit, and feeling great

10 I

Tips for caring for someone with the flu

t’s flu season and the American Red Cross wants everyone to know how they should take care of someone with influenza to help prevent others from getting sick.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) says people should get their flu vaccine now. If someone in your

household does come down with the flu, the Red Cross wants you to know the best way to care for them: 1. Stay home if you’re sick.

2. Designate one person as the caregiver. Have other household members avoid close contact with that person so they won’t become sick.

3. Make sure the person stays at home and rests until 24 hours after the fever is gone.

4. Designate a sick room for the person if possible.

5. Keep the following either in the sick room or near the person: tissues, a trash can lined with a plastic trash bag, alcoholbased hand sanitizer, a cooler or pitcher with ice and drinks, a thermometer and a cup with straw or squeeze bottle to help with drinking.

6. Keep everyone’s personal items separate. All household

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BLESSED SACRAMENT SCHOOL

3 year olds through 6th grade Elementary School Accredited by the Middle States Commission

Our Open House is 2/1 from 6:00-7:30pm Offering Faith, Knowledge, Discipline, Morals, and Dividends for Life since 1931.

Providing your child with academic excellence in a positive and personal environment!

Tours available. Call for an appointment.

3219 James Street • Syracuse, NY 13206 315-463-1261 • www.blessedsacramentschool.org

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the ins and outs of educational and stimulating activities for your children

Screen time

learning curve

from page 11

during any screen time. For example, after video chatting, repeat to your child what grandma and grandpa said on the screen.

In terms of TV, the AAP prefers “Sesame Street” and PBS as two sources of evidence-based educational television. But the same rule of parental involvement applies to TV. Watch shows with your children and help them understand what they are seeing and how they can apply what they’ve learned in day-to-day life. A good rule of thumb for parents is to treat TV/ video interaction like you would story time: point out important characters/events and repeat what you’re viewing.

Limit media usage for 6 years and older

In this age group, parents are in charge of media usage. Whereas benefits of technology include exposure to current events, collaboration on homework and the ability to communicate over long distances, there are risks such as reduction of physical activity and exposure to cyber bullying, compromised privacy and sexting (if you’d like to read more on risks and benefits visit pediatrics. aappublications.org/content/138/5/e20162592). The key is moderation, and parents can use the Family Media Use Plan (found here: HealthyChildren.org/MediaUsePlan) to develop a personalized plan for their children that

attend to each child’s age, health, and temperament.

When composing their plan, parents should consider productivity over entertainment and realize that children and teenagers need adequate sleep (8 to 12 hours depending on age), social interaction with friends and family and at least one hour of physical activity.

Also, the AAP asserts that parent media usage is a “strong predictor” of a child’s media habits, so be a role model for your kids. Other neat tips from the AAP include encouraging children to not sleep with devices, create “media free zones” such as the dinner table and bedrooms and discourage entertainment media while doing homework.

Create a Family Media Use Plan today. Your children will thank you in the future.

Dr. Fozia Bakshi is a pediatric physician practicing in Cazenovia at the Community Memorial Family Health Center located at 3045 John Trush Jr Blvd. Dr. Bakshi specializes in the care of children from birth through adolescence.

FEBRUARY 2017 SYRACUSE PARENT

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learning curve

the ins and outs of educational and stimulating activities for your children

Have a heart by learning CPR Learn how to save a life during National Heart Month

Each year, more than 300,000 people in the U.S. die of sudden cardiac arrest, but performing cardiopulmonary respiration (CPR) and using an automated external defibrillator (AED) during a cardiac emergency can help save lives.

February is National Heart Month, and the American Red Cross urges Americans to learn CPR and get the training and skills necessary to operate an AED. “The chance for survival for a person in cardiac arrest is reduced by about 10 percent for each minute that defibrillation is delayed, so CPR and AEDs can literally be a matter of life and death,” said Richard N. Bradley, MD, chair of the Red Cross Scientific Advisory Council’s Resuscitation Sub-Council.

“Someone who knows how to respond to an emergency is an asset to every household, workplace and community.”

The Red Cross offers a variety of online and in-class training courses. Participants learn how to recognize and respond to cardiac, breathing and first aid emergencies including

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Flu care

55267_5

Offering Babies, Mixed Ages, and Big Kids classes

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SYRACUSE PARENT FEBRUARY 2017

from page 14

members should avoid sharing pens, papers, clothes, towels, sheets, blankets, food or eating utensils unless cleaned between uses.

7. Disinfect doorknobs, switches, handles, computers, telephones, bedside tables, bathroom sinks, toilets, counters, toys and other surfaces that are commonly touched around the home or workplace.

8. Wash everyone’s dishes in the dishwasher or by hand using very hot water and soap.

9. Wash everyone’s clothes in a standard washing machine as you normally would. Use detergent and very hot water, tumble dry on a hot dryer setting and wash your hands after handling dirty laundry.

10. Wear disposable gloves when in contact with or cleaning up body fluids.

learning curve

Have a heart from page 16 performing CPR, using an AED, helping someone who is choking, controlling bleeding, treating heat- and cold-related emergencies and more.

Central New Yorkers can find training offerings in their area and options to take online simulation courses at redcross.org/ takeaclass.

Another important element in reducing the number of cardiac arrest deaths are AEDs, devices that analyze the heart’s rhythm and, if necessary, deliver an electrical shock which helps the heart re-establish an effective rhythm. Different types of AEDs are available, but they are similar to operate and have common features. The Red Cross helps people obtain AEDs for their home, business, school or organization, and offers AED program management, maintenance, and service. To learn more about AEDs, visit redcross.org/aedoffers.

Additionally, the Red Cross First Aid App includes step-bystep instructions, videos and animations on how to handle a variety of first aid situations including performing CPR and using and AED. Preloaded content allows users to access what they need even without mobile service. The hospital locator is convenient for travelers and the app is fully integrated with 9-1-1 so people can call EMS from the app in an emergency.

People can download the app for free in their mobile app store, by texting ‘GETFIRST’ to 90999 or by going to redcross. org/apps.

FEBRUARY 2017 SYRACUSE PARENT

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history

FYI

Mother Valentine How one woman’s idea launched a card business

By Tresa Erickson

Today, the production of Valentine’s Day cards in America is a multimillion-dollar business. Americans purchase thousands of cards every February to present to their valentines. In the 1800s, Americans weren’t so lucky. They either had to purchase a card imported from Great Britain or make their own. American Valentine’s Day cards were not a reality until the late 1840s when Esther Howland took on the task of making them.

Howland was born in 1828 and resided with her family in Massachusetts. Upon graduation from Mount Holyoke Female Seminary in 1847, she received an exquisite English valentine from one of her father’s business associates. Howland enjoyed the card so much she decided to make her own. She discussed the idea with her father, who owned a large book and stationery store. He liked the idea and helped Howland order supplies. She made a dozen samples and gave them to her brother for his next sales trip. Howland was hoping he would sell $200 in orders, but, much to her surprise and delight, he sold $5,000.

There was no way Howland could make that many cards on her own, so she got a group of friends together and developed an assembly line at the Howland family home. She completed the order and advertised her cards in a local paper. With an eye for detail and a well-crafted product at a reasonable price, Howland was destined to succeed. Prices for her cards ran from a nickel for a simple design to $50 for a layered design.

With business thriving, Howland created the New England Valentine Company in 1879. She relocated her company to a larger building and created a small book of verse for her customers to choose from for their cards. To keep up with demand, she employed at-home workers. Each week, she would have a card template and a box of supplies delivered to various women around town. The women would make the cards at home and return the finished product to Howland at the end of the week.

Howland brought many new innovations to the valentine card industry, including built-up shadowboxes and the contrast of white lace against brightly colored paper. With imported pictures, diecut flowers, gilt paper trimmings and fancy scraps on intricate lace paper, her cards were quite popular and sold very well. Historians estimate Howland’s business brought in over $100,000 a year.

Howland continued making Valentine’s Day cards until 1881 when her father fell ill. Howland sold the business to George Whitney so she could care for her father. Whitney kept up the business for some time, basing many of his card designs upon the Howland style. Howland died in 1904. A newspaper article soon after referred to her as the “Mother of the American Valentine,” forever cementing her importance to the industry.

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