October%202017%20parent

OCTOBER 2017

hello

fall -Plan a spooky or sweet family movie night -Six tricks for storing sweets - Halloween, boo-boo free

2

SYRACUSE PARENT OCTOBER 2017

Fish tales

A Massive

Muskie

CORDIALLY INVITES YOU TO:

Submitted photo

Evan Unger-Bond, 4, of Baldwinsville, reeled in this huge fish all on his own. The Tiger Muskellunge (Also known as “Muskie or “Musky”) was caught on Aug. 21. Evan is the son of Carrie Bond and Gerald Unger. Have a great catch you’d like to share? Send it to jwing@eaglenewsonline. com and we’ll share it with our readers!

OCTOBER 2017 SYRACUSE PARENT

3

mealsinminutes

Football season is here — time for a

gametime dip Mediteranean dip Ingredients

10 ounces crumbled feta cheese 4 ounces softened cream cheese 3 Tablespoons olive oil 1 teaspoon honey ½ cup skinned cucumber, chopped ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes 3/4 cup sun-dried tomatos, chopped 10 fresh basil leaves, torn 2 Tablespoons chopped chives

Directions

Mix the feta, cream cheese, 1 Tablespoon olive oil and honey in a bowl. Add the rest of the ingredients as well as the remaining olive oil and gently combine. Serve with pita chips.

Cheesy sausage dip Ingredients

1 lb sweet sausage (bulk, not in casing) 1 lb lean ground beef 1 large onion, chopped 4 cloves chopped garlic salt and pepper to taste 2 lbs shredded cheddar cheese 2 cans cream of mushroom soup

Directions

Cook sausage, ground beef, onion and garlic until brown; drain. Add remaining ingredients and cook until cheese is melted and mixture is heated through. Pour into a crockpot on low to keep warm for serving. Serve with sliced baguette or mini melba toasts.

Reuben dip: Sandwich in a bowl Ingredients

16 ounces sauerkraut, drained 8 ounces softened cream cheese 2 cups shredded swiss cheese 2 cups

4

SYRACUSE PARENT OCTOBER 2017

shredded cooked corned beef 1⁄4 cup thousand island dressing

Directions

In a slow cooker, combine the sauerkraut, cream cheese, Swiss cheese, corned beef and thousand island dressing.

Cover and cook on high about 45 minutes or until hot and cheese is melted, stirring occasionally, then keep on low, Provide rye bread cubes for into alongwith small bowls and a ladle for guests to serve themselves.

Editor’s choice

Neiman Marcus dip

This dip was introduced to me by a friend and is addictive!

After doing some research, I’m not sure how it got it’s name, – there’s mention of it being added to the flagship store’s restaurant menu in the 1950s – but it is easy and delicious!

Ingredients

1 cup shredded cheddar 1/2 cup mayonnaise 1/4 cup slivered almonds 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped 1 package real bacon bits (or 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled)

Directions

Stir together cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, almonds, green onions and bacon until evenly incorporated.

Refrigerate dip for at least 30 minutes. Serve with crackers of your choice.

meals in minutes 4 Football season is here — time for a gametime dip.

from the editor 7 Peak season approaches for children with

8 Make it a family (Halloween) movie night!

11 Halloween is about more than candy.

6 Waiting to be called into the game... always.

healthy family

family fyi

calendar 14 A listing of family-friendly events and programs happening in your own backyard.

asthma.

10 Local family takes on ADK High Peaks.

12 Have a “boo-boo” free Halloween.

13 Packing healthy lunches.

contents

contests 10 Enter our Thanksgiving coloring contest and win a family four-pack to Wonderworks.

HALLOWEEN HINTS

Six tricks for storing treats

H

alloween is a favorite day for many children - and even a number of adults. Halloween offers revelers the opportunity to dress up in costume, play tricks on unsuspecting individuals and cap off the day with treasure troves of candy.

Approximately 600 million pounds of Halloween candy is sold each year in the United States; 90 million pounds of that is chocolate.

The National Retail Foundation said more than $2 billion is spent on candy come Halloween.

Many households take in more candy than they know what to do with on Halloween. Couple that with any leftover candy that may not have been grabbed by trick-or-treaters, and that’s quite a bounty to manage.

Rather than relegate candy to the trash can, proper storage and some other tips can preserve treats long after Halloween has come and gone.

1. Go nutty first. Nuts and oils will not last as long as some other candy ingredients. Consume candy that is full of nuts first. You can try freezing candy containing nuts, but there is no guarantee the texture will remain the same upon thawing.

2. Keep an eye on chocolate. Chocolate needs to be kept under cool conditions to prolong its shelf life. The National Confectioners Association says

dark chocolate can be kept for one to two years if wrapped in foil and stored in a cool, dark and dry place, such as a pantry. Milk and white chocolate have a more limited storage time of no more than eight to 10 months. HersheyÕs does not recommend putting chocolate in the refrigerator, as doing so can affect texture.

3. Candy corn can endure. This symbol of the season is a durable treat. If left in the original, unopened packaging, candy corn can last a few years. The manufacturer of Smarties says that its candy can last up to three years if unopened. The cooler and drier the conditions for storing the candies, the better.

4.

Keep original packaging. The wrappers used to house the candy were designed to keep it fresh. Candy that has been exposed to the elements will degrade faster. When original packaging is unavailable, glass or plastic containers with airtight lids can keep Halloween candy fresher, longer.

5. Manage moisture. Candies like

mints, caramels and hard candies can absorb moisture. They should not be mixed with other candies that can lose moisture, such as fudge and creamy confections. The NCA notes that hard candies can stay hard if sprinkled with finely ground sugar and stored in airtight containers.

6. Use candy in other ways. If eating chocolate bar after chocolate bar becomes tiresome, repurpose candy in different recipes. Chocolate can replace chips or morsels in cookies. Use hard candies to garnish cakes. Melt down caramels to use for ice cream toppings or chop up nutty candies to make your own sundae toppings.

OCTOBER 2017 SYRACUSE PARENT

5

fromtheeditor Waiting to be called into the game ... always That milestone has finally arrived: Both of my children are now in high school. This has been such a bittersweet time for me. I’m glad my kids are growing and learning and proud of the young adults they are becoming, but part of me longs for those days when they relied more upon me. They do still need me for rides to and from events, practice and outings with friends, but some of my daughter’s older friends have stepped into that role a bit and I know that I won’t be needed once my daughter gets her license in a year or so.

As both of my kids’ lives get busier and more complication, I sometimes feel less connected to what is happening day-to-day with them, and this does make me kind of sad. I like to think Jennifer Wing Editor that I have an inkling of their likes and dislikes, as well as what currently is either stressing them out or making them happy.

In order to stay connected, I try to make sure we spend time together as a family. I plan family trips often. These trips can be just a day picking apples or shopping at the mall, or can be long, like a weekend at my family’s camp or to see the Bills play in Buffalo. We also take a yearly family trip; this year we went to Hawaii, next year we plan to visit Disney. And I insist on eating together as a family, whenever possible, even if that means we eat at 9 p.m. because my husband or the kids have commitments until that time.

I guess I want to make sure to still feel involved; to still feel needed. So, with that in mind, I decided to take a closer look: - Not needed: Since both of my children are taking math courses that are already too advanced for me and my memory when it comes to other subjects is foggy, they don’t need me to help with homework.

- Needed: When the heaping mound of laundry in their rooms has taken over too much space, I fill the role of washer woman, lugging it down the stairs, loading, folding and putting it all away, only to repeat the process again and again.

- Not needed: To go on walks, bike rides or skateboard excursions to any destination less than three miles from our house.

- Needed: To drive them to any destination farther than three miles from our house.

- Not needed: To accompany them while shopping at DestinyUSA, unless it’s during the curfew hours for those under 18.

- Needed: To be around to fund such excursions.

- Not needed: To help them find snacks, cookies, ice cream or other unhealthy foods in the pantry.

- Needed: To cook or re-heat any meals, as well as do all the shopping for said repast.

I know the above might have a somewhat “snarky” tone but, to be truthful, I am glad there are still things my children need from me. And I know the most importantly things – love, support and encouragement – are needed (and given to them unconditionally.)

So, when I return home from a day of work to a messy, laundry-littered home full of hungry, cash-poor and demanding children, I try to remind myself of what is important – that they are happy and thriving, both academically and physically, and that I am privileged to be a part of their lives, something I sometimes take for granted.

As they go through their high school years I bear in mind that these are important times for them, and precious times for me, as with any parent who sits on the sidelines, cheering them on while waiting for that time they are called in to play.

Jennifer Wing can be reached at jwing@eaglenewsonline.com

Looking for more?

Scan, Like, or Follow Us Today!

6

SYRACUSE PARENT OCTOBER 2017

publisher

David B. Tyler 315-434-8889 ext. 302 dtyler@eaglenewsonline.com

editor

Jennifer Wing 315-434-8889 ext. 340 jwing@eaglenewsonline.com

ad sales

Linda Jabbour 315-434-8889 ext. 304 ljabbour@eaglenewsonline.com

business manager

Luba Demkiv 315-434-8889 ext. 303 ldemkiv@eaglenewsonline.com

circulation manager

Lori Newcomb 315-434-8889 ext. 333 lnewcomb@eaglenewsonline.com

creative director

Sean Haney 315-434-8889 ext. 331 art@eaglenewsonline.com

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.

healthyfamily

Peak season approaches for children with asthma

A

spike in asthma symptoms and flareups among children who have asthma is expected to start in late August and continue through the end of September, according to a review of past claims data and public health records by Excellus BlueCross BlueShield.

“An increase in the number of children’s asthma-related medical visits, asthma attacks and hospitalizations occurs each year at this time as kids return to school from summer break,” said Richard Lockwood, M.D., Excellus BlueCross BlueShield vice president and chief medical officer of utilization management. “The September peak is caused, in part, by the increase in respiratory infections among kids who are exposed to more germs once they return to school.”

More than 19 percent of Central New York children younger than age 18 have asthma. That figure is substantially higher than the 13 percent average for Upstate New York children younger than age 18.

A review of Upstate New York claims data from January 2014 to December 2016 revealed that children from birth to age 4 experience more asthma-related emergency room visits at this time of year (17.7 per 1,000) than children age 15 to age 17 (6.2 visits per 1,000).

Lockwood urges parents of children with asthma to anticipate this annual spike and take the necessary steps to assure that needed supplies and medications are available at home and at school. He adds that now is also a great time to update a child’s asthma action plan (also called a management plan), which is a written plan developed in conjunction with the child’s doctor.

It shows the child’s daily treatment, such as what kind of medicines to take and when to take them.

It also explains when to call the doctor or go to the emergency room.

“All adults who care for a child who has asthma should have a copy of the child’s asthma action plan,” said Lockwood.

Asthma is one of the most common long-term diseases of children, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It causes wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness and coughing at night or early in the morning. Those

with asthma have it all the time, but actual “asthma attacks” occur only when something bothers the lungs. During an attack, airways become swollen and inflamed. The muscles around the airways contract and airways produce extra mucus, causing breathing (bronchial) tubes to narrow.

The American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology notes that some sufferers liken an asthma attack to a feeling of drowning, because the narrow air passages make it extremely difficult to breathe. Mild episodes may last only a few minutes; more severe episodes can last from hours to days and become a life-threatening emergency.

The common cold is one of the most frequent triggers for asthma attacks in very young children.

Asthma triggers in late August and September also include the change from a relaxed, summer schedule to the structure of the school day and the impact it can have on medication schedules.

In addition, late summer and early fall is the peak time of year for molds and pollen, which can affect children living with asthma.

Here are six steps for controlling your child’s asthma: 3 Check in regularly with your child’s doctor to

make sure that any prescribed asthma medication is working, and that you have medications and supplies for home and school. Request a physician’s note if your child will need medications at school.

3 Make sure your child takes all asthma medications as directed.

3 Alert school staff regarding your child’s asthma, including details about your child’s asthma triggers and signs of an asthma attack.

3 Empower your child by teaching him/her about asthma, including how to notice triggers and warning signs.

3 Reduce asthma triggers at home by washing bedding with hot water once a week and using allergy-proof covers on mattresses and pillows.

3 Prevent the spread of germs by encouraging proper hand-washing by the entire family, and making sure that every family member age 6 months and older receives a yearly flu shot.

An Excellus BlueCross BlueShield poster, “Breathe Easy: 6 Steps for Controlling Your Child’s Asthma,” is available free for download at tinyurl. com/stepstocontrolasthma. Find additional information on asthma at HealthyChildren.org and lung.org.

OCTOBER 2017 SYRACUSE PARENT

7

family fyi

Make it a family (Halloween) movie night!

Some ‘spooktacular’ recommendations, by audience

I

By Jennifer wing

am a huge movie buff – with an extensive library of DVDs and subsriptions to online movie services and premium cable movie channels to prove it. As a result, I have some great ideas for movies suitable for children of all ages. The following are suggestions, per age range. (There’s no shame in a teenager, or adult even, choosing something listed under the birth-to-elementary school age range.)

So pop some popcorn, grab a soda and a fist full of candy and hunker down on the couch with the kids for a great fall film fest!

Birth to elementary school

“It’s the Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown,” – A classic, must-see. In it, the Peanuts gang celebrates Halloween while Linus waits for the Great Pumpkin.

“Curious George – A Halloween Boo-fest,” – Who doesn’t love the Man With the Yellow Hat? “Wallace & Gromit – The Curse of the Were-Rabbit,” rated G - Wallace and his loyal dog, Gromit, set out to discover the mystery behind the garden sabotage that plagues their village and threatens the annual giant vegetable growing contest. This film won an Oscar for Best Animated Feature Film of the Year in 2006.

“Monsters, Inc.” rated G – Even though not Halloween-themed, this classic Disney film is a great way to celebrate the holiday with small children. In it, two monsters who believed they need to make children scream to power their city meet a child and find they are mistaken.

8

SYRACUSE PARENT OCTOBER 2017

Middle school (tweens)

Rated PG: “Coraline,” – One of my daughter’s favorite all-time movies, where an adventurous girl finds another world that is a strangely idealized version of her frustrating home, but with sinister secrets.

“Monster House,” – This movie is great, if your kids are able to withstand a bit of a scare.

In this film, three teens discover that their neighbor’s house is really a living, breathing, scary monster.

“Hocus Pocus,” – A classic Disney film in which, after three centuries, three witch sisters are resurrected in Salem, Mass., on Halloween night, and it is up to two teenagers, a young girl and an immortal cat to put an end to their reign of terror.

“Scared Shrekless,” – Unfortunately for me, one of my kids’ favorites, even now that they are in high school. In it, Shrek gets in the Halloween spirit by challenging his fairytale friends to come up with scary stories for a contest, but they learn they have to spend the night in a haunted castle before the winner is named.

“Corpse Bride,” – In this animated tale, a shy groom practices his wedding vows in the inadvertent presence of a deceased young woman who rises from the grave assuming he has married her.

“The Nightmare Before Christmas,” Jack Skellington, king of Halloween Town, discovers Christmas Town, but his attempts to bring Christmas to his home cause confusion.

Although I was never wild about this film, many others love it, so I’m adding it to the list. ”Poltergeist” - Make sure to watch the

original, 1982 version of this movie, where a family’s home is haunted by a host of ghosts. The PG rating is a bit misleading, in my opinion, so if your kids don’t like being frightened, you might want to skip this quite scary but good film.

“Legend of Sleepy Hollow,” not rated – This Disney short might be hard to find, but scared the stuffing out of me as a child growing up in the 1970s when DVDs, or even VHS tapes, didn’t exist and you had to rely upon the animated feature airing each fall on television.

Rated PG-13: “The Addams Family,” – Based on the beloved series, this more kooky than spooky movie is a favorite of our family. In this movie, con artists plan to fleece the Addams by using an accomplice who claims to be their long-lost uncle.

“The Sixth Sense,” - In this great Oscarnominated movie, a boy who communicates with spirits that don’t know they’re dead seeks the help of a disheartened child psychologist.

High school and beyond

All are rated R, unless noted

“Halloween,” – If you are only going to watch one in this series, make sure it’s this classic, 1978 film, featuring a young Jamie Lee Curtis. If you want to turn it into a “Halloween” marathon, there are many not-as-good sequels.

There are certainly other Halloween-themed movies but, in my opinion, they are not worth watching, so instead I will give you my top 10 scary, but not Halloween-themed movies that are great to be watched on All Hallows Eve: 1. “Friday the 13th” – This tale of a group

continued on page 17

Shining Stars Daycare Centers, GRAND OPENING OF OUR NEW DAYCARE AND SPORTS FACILITY at Rt. 92 & Enders Road NOVEMBER 1ST!

shiningstarschildcare.org

ATTENTION LEAGUES, TEAMS, SCHOOL DISTRICTS, GROUPS, OR FOR ANY SPECIAL OCCASION - CALL JOHN FOR SPACE & TIME SLOTS 315-569-7777 Discover the power of family music making Offering early childhood music and movement classes to children, and the adults who love them. Classes located all over CNY. To find the one nearest you, call or visit our website

www.bluebirdmusictogether.com (315) 427-6985

Volleyball, Basketball, Soccer, Baseball, Dance, Karate, Women’s Self Defense, Yoga & all other activities. Indoor Full Size Gym (Liverpool), 1/2 Court Gym (East Syracuse).

Available weekdays after 6pm & anytime on weekends.

MANLIUS 4581 Enders Rd • 315-682-3257 LIVERPOOL 120 Metropolitan Dr. • 315-457-4500 EAST SYRACUSE 5903 Bowman Rd. • 315-656-2180

Parry’s

GYMNASTICS

FEATURING NEW FOAM SAFETY PIT! HOME OF 2016 USAIGC WORLD VAULTING CHAMPION! nient e v n Co ations Loc

REGISTER NOW FOR FALL! START ANYTIME! Free Trial Classes! (new students only)

Ongoing registration throughout the School Year!

BALDWINSVILLE 8512 Route 57

Fabu Bir thlous Par ti day es!

HAMILTON

• Ages 3 & UP • CheerTumbling • USAIGC Team

2498 Route 12B

(315) 458-5365 Parr ysGymnastics.com OCTOBER 2017 SYRACUSE PARENT

58905_5

After School Programs in Camillus

9

healthy family

Family takes on ADK High Peaks

T

BY HAYLEIGH GOWANS

he Hanlon family of Manlius are all avid hikers, and recently all three children in the family have achieved an accomplishment not many adults can say they have — they have successfully climbed all 46 High Peaks in the Adirondack Mountains.

Parents Kevin and Denise have inspired an interest in hiking in their children Lilly, 22, Mark, 15, and Ellrose, 13, and all three children have taken on and completed climbing the 46 High Peaks in the Adirondacks.

The High Peaks are 46 mountains originally grouped together because they were thought to have elevations higher than 4,000 feet and, according to website adk46er.org, between 1925 and 2014, 8,819 climbers have been recorded as “46ers.”

The Hanlons reside in Manlius, but have a camp on Big Moose Lake. When they first started dating, Denise and Kevin went hiking together often, and it became a family bonding time once the children were old enough to hike, said Denise.

Kevin climbed his first high peak — Mount Marcy —at the age of 12 with Boy Scout Troop 152 of Fayetteville, and it took him 46 years to complete the high peaks in the summer of 2015 when he climbed Allen Mountain.

Lilly started climbing the high peaks when she was just seven by climbing Mount Marcy with her father, and completed the journey in the summer of 2015 on Iroquois Peak.

“It was a very special day, and even though my dad wasn’t able to be there, we ‘FaceTimed’ at the top to celebrate,” said Lilly. “It was very bittersweet realizing the journey was over, but knowing the time and effort that went into accomplishing this goal paid off. There are definitely a handful of high peaks that are less than enjoyable, so I was most excited knowing that I could now go back and re-hike some of my favorites.”

Mark and Ellrose started climbing the high peaks at ages 6 and 4, and just a few weeks ago finished their last summit — Seymour Mountain.

Climbing these mountains can be difficult at times, and many of the hikes don’t have proper trails, said Kevin. Issues faced when climbing included bringing adequate food and water, braving the weather and wetness left by rain, as well as mental and physical fatigue.

“My least favorite [mountain] to climb was Cliff and Redfield because that day there was so much mud on the trail that made it very difficult,” said Mark. Ellrose agreed, but said it made for some funny stories.

“It was brutal,” said Ellrose. “There was so much mud that it made us three to four hours behind schedule. I hiked this with my brother and sister, but our parents, at home, were very worried. Since there was no cell service except for the summit we couldn’t let them know we were ok and they began to panic. They sent the State Troopers and Adirondack Rangers looking for us. This began the

10

SYRACUSE PARENT OCTOBER 2017

SUBMITTED PHOTO

From left to right: Mark, Lilly and Ellrose Hanlon are siblings from Manlius who have all become “46ers” by climbing the 46 High Peaks in the Adirondacks. whole Adirondacks [going] out looking for ‘the three lost children.’

We were met by police in the parking lot asking if we were the ‘Hanlon children.’”

Learning to prepare for these long and challenging hikes has taught the family many life lessons, Kevin said.

“Along the journey they learned about setting goals, training, preparation and handling surprises along the way without ever giving up. Determination helped them through the many tough times on the mountain, but also certainly in other areas in their lives,” said Kevin.

For the future, the family hopes to begin to take on the winter high peaks or the Appalachian Trail.

“There were very many times it would have been easy to quit or put off for another day but they kept at it. These are long days and you really get to know someone out on the trails,” said Denise.

“It has been a family activity that has, no doubt, brought us closer together. I’m most pleased that the kids have done a few of these without us. I hope that they can continue this friendship and shared interest throughout their life.”

familyfyi

Halloween is about more than candy I have a couple rules regarding Halloween.

The first is that I will only give your child something that lacks nutritional value. There will be no redeeming quality to the treats available at my house. If you’re Karen Bergamo-Moore looking for raisins, A mother’s you’ve come to the perspective wrong place.

The second is I will insist your child say “Trick or Treat.” I think a fun-size Reese’s demands a little effort on Princess Jasmine’s part.

The third is I don’t care how old you are; if you are in costume (and say trick or treat) you will be given candy.

That’s right. If a group of teenagers shows up dressed up as a hobo, a clown and football player (also known as “costumes they could

pull together within 10 minutes of deciding to go trick-or-treating”), I will reward the effort with a sugar-based treat.

Honestly, these costumes involve more effort than me going to the store and buying a Captain America costume ever did.

The Boy is on the cusp of what some would determine as “too old” for trick-or-treating, but I long since stopped caring what “some” would say. Teens are caught in a world where they’re told they are growing up too fast one moment, and the next that they’re too old for Halloween. How are they supposed to know how to act their age when the adults don’t even know what that means?

If my almost-teenager and his buddies want to pull together some costumes, then walk around the neighborhood asking for candy without “tricking” anyone, what’s the harm?

The Boy has been trick-or-treating with the same group of friends since preschool. They go to different schools now, so Halloween is

their night to catch up and be goofy as only longtime friends can be. They reminisce about Halloweens past (houses that put out a buffet of candy and donuts, scary homeowners and even broken bones), they catch up on news of other friends and trade candy at night’s end.

The funny thing is it’s not about the candy they collect, but the memories they make between houses. So, if you don’t mind sparing a piece of chocolate for the tall trick-or-treaters in the back of the crowd — the ones wearing their school football uniform or a scary mask and green wig — it won’t just be appreciated, it will probably be entered into Halloween lore.

Karen Bergamo Moore lives in Camillus with her husband and son. She works in the communications office at the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry, is active in Boy Scouts and enjoys running 5Ks with her son. Follow her on twitter at @ kmoore623.

Ballet classes for Pre-ballet to Advanced students.

Professional teaching staff.

Students trained in technique and character in a wholesome atmosphere with performance opportunities.

www.LightoftheWorldBallet.com

OCTOBER 2017 SYRACUSE PARENT

11

healthy family Have a ‘boo-boo’ free Halloween Safety tips for trick-or-treating Thousands of costume-clad children will embark on treat-finding missions in neighborhoods all across the country this Halloween. Everyone wants to have fun, but it is important that trick-or-treaters and their chaperones prioritize safety as well.

The child welfare organization Safe Kids says that twice as many child pedestrians are killed while walking on Halloween compared to other days. In addition, the National Safety Council states that darting out or running into the road accounts for about 70 percent of pedestrian deaths or injuries among children between the ages of five and nine and about 47 percent of incidents for kids between the ages of 10 and 14.

Ensuring trick-or-treating youngsters are

Top 2017 costumes

Listed by buycostumes.com:

Boy costumes:

The flash PJ Masks Gekko Star Wars Jedi Star Wars Darth Vader Captain Jack Sparrow Harry Potter Spider Man Optimus Prime Disney Prince Charming

Girl costumes:

Wonder Woman Belle Magical Mermaid Harry Potter Disney’s Frozen Elsa Angelica Child (Pirate) Disney’s Frozen Anna PJ Masks Owlette Cinderella Star Wars Rey 12

SYRACUSE PARENT OCTOBER 2017

visible to motorists can make Halloween safer for everyone involved. The American Academy of Pediatrics and other safety groups suggest the following strategies for safe trick-or-treating.: Supervise the festivities. Adults should chaperone young trick-or-treaters who are unlikely to be focused on safety in the midst of Halloween excitement.

Use reflective tape or LED lights. Dark costumes coupled with twilight can make it difficult for motorists to see trick-or-treating youngsters. Parents can improve the chances of their kids being seen by motorists by adhering reflective tape onto kids’ costumes.

Glow sticks and wearable LED lights also can illuminate trick-or-treaters.

Carry lanterns or flashlights. Children and/or chaperones who carry flashlights

and lanterns can improve their own visibility while also making themselves more visible to motorists. Lanterns and flashlights help trickor-treaters avoid holes, cracked pavement and other obstacles. For those children who want to free up their hands for better treat gathering, lights that strap to the head are an option.

Keep the lights on. Homeowners can do their part by keeping outdoor flood lights and accent lighting on to make paths safer for youngsters on the prowl for candy.

Choose face makeup over masks. Children wearing masks may not spot oncoming cars or other hazards. Face makeup won’t affect visibility but will still help kids look scary.

With the right combination of caution and fun, Halloween can be an enjoyable time for youngsters and adults.

healthyfamily Packing healthy lunches Tips to help your child stay healthy at school

N

ow that the school year is in full swing, take a look at what your child is eating each day.

Packing the kids’ lunches for school means you have control over which foods they are eating. Parents can manage nutritious meals even when the kids are at school.

According to the Alliance for a Healthier Generation, founded with the American Heart Association, American kids consume 35-50 percent of their daily calories while in school. So, healthy lunches can have a big impact on children’s health through good nutrition.

Today, about one in three American kids and teens is overweight or obese, nearly triple the rate in 1963. Among children today, obesity is causing a broad range of health problems that previously weren’t seen until adulthood.

These include high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes and elevated blood cholesterol levels. Nutrition can go a long way toward preventing these illnesses in children.

Here are some budget-friendly, creative ideas from the American Heart Association to help keep kids happy and healthy at lunchtime:

Make a Smarter Sandwich While some kids prefer the same thing

every day, many kids want variety in their lunches.

Sandwiches are easy, portable and kidfriendly.

A Use different breads like 100% whole-wheat tortilla wraps (choose wraps low in saturated fat and made with no hydrogenated oils) or 100% whole-wheat pita pockets.

A In addition to lettuce and tomato, try shredded carrot or zucchini and sliced cucumbers, peppers, or apple or pear with a turkey sandwich.

A Try avocado or hummus as a swap for cheese or mayo.

A Try a leftover grilled chicken in your sandwich as a healthy swap for lunch meat.

Love those Leftovers Think about using the leftovers from a family favorite dinner for a next day lunch.

Use a thermos to keep foods hot or cold until the lunch bell rings.

The prepared/packaged versions of these foods sometimes have a lot of sodium, so make them homemade with little or no salt, or compare nutrition facts of similar products and choose the ones with less sodium.

A Soup - tomato, vegetable or bean A Chili (vegetarian or made with lean or extra lean ground chicken) A Spaghetti or curly pasta salad (whole wheat with veggies and chicken added) A Bean casserole or beans & rice with vegetables.

Let Them Dunk Sometimes it’s OK to let your kids play

with their food, especially when they are getting extra nutrition. Try packing one of these fun dunks with dippers: A Apple and pear slices to dip into lowfat plain yogurt or peanut butter. Cortland, Empire and Ginger Gold apples brown at a slower rate than other apples.

A Carrot, celery and sweet pepper strips to dip into hummus, fresh salsa or homemade bean dip.

A

Whole-grain,

low-sodium,

low-fat

crackers or slices of grilled tofu (a soybean product) to dunk into soup.

A

Avoid packing sugary drinks like

“power” drinks, soda, or sugar-added juices to your kids’ lunchboxes, or home meals.

Water or school purchased milk are great options to reduce sugar in the diet. Let the crunchy snacks be fruit or cut veggies, not fried, fatty chips.

A Get Them Involved When kids help pack their lunches, they’re more likely to eat that lunch! On nights you have a bit more time, like a Sunday night, have them choose which piece of fruit or what type of whole grain bread they want and let them assemble their lunch. Make this a weekly routine – it’s another great way to spend family time together.

OCTOBER 2017 SYRACUSE PARENT

13

calendar

FREE

Prenatal Consultation!

Sunday, Oct. 1

Friday-Sunday, Oct. 6-8

Cazenovia Art Trail Tour

Scare-A-Con

10 a.m.-5 p.m., Cazenovia College Art Gallery, 6 Sullivan St.; art-trail.org.

A self-guided tour of artists’ studios that provides a unique opportunity to drive beautiful back roads and meet Cazenovia’s diverse and talented artists in their working environments at the height of fall color. Beginning in September, a map of participating artists will be available for download at art-trail.org. Maps will also be available at all artists’ locations, including the Cazenovia College Art Gallery in Reisman Hall at 6 Sullivan St., on the days of the trail. Free.

Turning Stone Casino and Resort, 5218 Patrick Road, Verona.

The premiere horror/sci-fi/paranormal fan convention & film festival featuring celebrities, vendors, parties and more. For information on times, schedule, celebrity guests and ticket prices visit scareacon.com.

Beautiful & Exotic Orchids

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

Staff on call 24 HO

URS A day!

CAMILLUS

LIVERPOOL

270 Township Blvd. 8086 Oswego Rd. Phone:315-487-1541 Phone: 315-652-1070

www.pediatricassociatesny.com

10 a.m.-4 p.m., Beaver Lake Nature Center, Baldwinsville; onondagacountyparks.com.

Orchids are a widely varied group of plants sporting exotic shapes, flashy colors, and tempting perfume-like scents. In this exhibit, members of the CNY Orchid Society present selections from their collections of rare and unusual orchids. Free with nature center admission.

Through Oct. 8 “The Three Musketeers”

abbottfarmsNY

e aldwinsvill 3275 Cold Springs Road • B rms.com fa 315-638-7783 • abbott Visit our Country Store for Gifford’s Ice Cream, Homemade Fudge, Cookies, Pies, Eggs, Honey, Maple Syrup, Cider, Sweet Corn, our own Free Range Beef

Pick Your Own Apples and Pumpkins Visit Our Barnyard Animals Fall Fest Weekends September 9 - October 29

Corn Maze, Wagon Rides, Bounce House, Face Painting, Tube Slides, Apple Cannon, Homemade Donuts and Cider, Etc...

We offer School/Group Tours, Birthday Parties & Corporate/Group Events!

Email: specialevents@abbottfarms.com for information 59194_5

Visit our Four Daughters Wine & Cidery at Abbott Farms FourdaughtersNY

14

SYRACUSE PARENT OCTOBER 2017

Friday-Sunday, Oct. 6-15 “Crazy for You” Showtimes vary, Syracuse Stage, 820 E. Genesee St.; 315-443-3275, syracusestage.org.

Take some of the greatest songs ever written for Broadway and Hollywood, mix them with a fabulous let’s-put-on-a-show style story, and the result is this joyous Gershwin celebration . When a stage-struck, wealthy, Manhattan ne’er-do-well named Bobby Child finds himself in a broken down Nevada mining town, he sets his sights on rescuing a bankrupt theater and loses his heart to the beautiful and talented Polly Baker. Boy meets girl, Times Square meets tumbleweed, and great music meets great dancing.

Saturday, Oct. 7 Pumpkin Pancake Breakfast

Showtimes and ticket prices vary, Syracuse Stage, 820 E. Genesee St.; 315-443-3275, syracusestage.org.

It’s all for one and fun for all when Alexandre Dumas’ legendary tale comes to life on the stage.

When a young man arrives in Paris to join the King’s musketeers, he soon finds himself caught up in political plots, romance and, of course, multiple swordfights.

9 a.m.-noon, Beaver Lake Nature Center, Baldwinsville; onondagacountyparks.com.

Enjoy seasonal pumpkin (or regular) pancakes, sausage, and fresh brewed coffee or juice.

Depending on your appetite, breakfast will range from $3 to $5. Visitors, including groups, are served and seated on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Tuesdays, Oct. 3, 10

SU Orange Football vs. Pittsburgh Panthers

Downtown Syracuse Farmers Market 7 a.m.-3 p.m., Clinton Square, West Genesee and South Clinton streets; downtownsyracuse. com.

More than 50 farmers and produce dealers selling fresh, seasonal vegetables, fruits, nuts, eggs, cheeses, baked goods, flowers, plants, handcrafted items and more.

Wednesday-Sunday, Oct. 4-8 Super D.I.R.T. Week 2017 Oswego Speedway, 300 East Albany St., Oswego; superdirtweekonline.com.

The tradition continues with racing’s hottest party! Super D.I.R.T. week returns to Oswego in 2017. See website for schedule and ticket prices.’’

Time TBA, Carrier Dome, 900 Irving Ave., Syracuse, cuse.com.

It’s Homecoming Weekend at Syracuse University!

Takacs Quartet 7:30 p.m., H.W. Smith Elementary, 1130 Salt Springs Road, Syracuse; syrfcm.org.

Syracuse Friends of Chamber Music opens its 68th season with one of the truly great ensembles on the world stage today. The program includes string quartets by Haydn, Shostakovich and Mendelssohn. Tickets are $25, senior tickets are $20, students get in free.

Saturday-Sunday, Oct. 7-8 LaFayette Apple Festival 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday, 5330 Rowland Road, LaFayette;

Apple pancake breakfast starts at 7a.m. both days. You have not had fritters until you’ve had them at the LaFayette Apple Festival. The event features food, refreshments, a midway with rides and games, competitive runs, craft sales and contests . Free parking and entertainment; $5 admissions (12 and under are free.)

Sunday, Oct. 8 Empire State Marathon NBT Bank Stadium, Syracuse; empirestatemarathon.com.

The annual Empire State Marathon and Half Marathon will include runners from over 35 states and nine countries. The course continues to feature Onondaga Lake Park, Onondaga County, Syracuse, Liverpool and Baldwinsville.

Date subject to change.

The Vince O’Neil Wild Mushroom Festival 1–4 p.m., Beaver Lake Nature Center, Baldwinsville; onondagacountyparks.com.

Join members of the Central New York Mycological Society for this afternoon program on wild mushrooms. Come learn about edible and poisonous mushrooms, as well as those that help trees and hurt trees and those that are decomposers. Guided hikes through Beaver Lake’s woodland in search of various species of mushrooms are scheduled for 1:30 and 3:30 p.m.

(Each walk will be limited to 30 participants.)

Tables with identified mushrooms will be on display and experts will be available to identify mushrooms brought in. On-going activities include cooking demonstrations, how to grow your own mushrooms, crafting with mushrooms and spore print demonstrations. Free with Nature Center admission.

Friday, Oct. 13 “Tales From the Crypt,” “Vietnam War Stories” screenings, director Q&A 6-9 p.m., Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science & Technology, 500 S Franklin St., Syracuse; most.org.

Presented by presented by Michael Massurin and After Dark Presents. A question and answer session with American director Jack Sholder will follow the screening. Sholder is best known for his horror film genre work, including: “Alone in the Dark,” “A Nightmare on Elm Street 2: Freddy’s Revenge,” “The Hidden” and “Wishmaster 2: Evil Never Dies.” Afterwards, the MOST screen the IMAX film, “A Beautiful Planet.” This event is free, and tickets are limited and available online or at the MOST box office.

calendar Friday-Saturday, Oct. 13-28 “The Crucible” Central New York Playhouse, ShoppingTown Mall, DeWitt; cnyplayhouse.org.

The story focuses upon a young farmer, his wife, and a young servant-girl who maliciously causes the wife’s arrest for witchcraft. The farmer brings the girl to court to admit the lie—and it is here that the monstrous course of bigotry and deceit is terrifyingly depicted.

The farmer, instead of saving his wife, finds himself also accused of witchcraft and ultimately condemned with a host of others.

Ticket prices vary.

Saturday, Oct. 14 Sensory Friendly Time 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., the MOST; most.org or call 315-425-9068.

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.

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

Shocking audiences since its premiere, Beethoven’s “Symphony No. 3” will jolt you from its opening chords and move you through the energetic and transformative work. Music Director Lawrence Loh conducts this striking work, which is paired with Saint-Saens single movement Cello Concerto No. 1, performed by acclaimed young cellist Julian Schwarz. Ticket prices vary.

Saturday-Sunday, Oct. 14-15 Salt City Antique Show 2017 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday , NYS Fairgrounds Center of Progress Building , Syracuse; allmanpromotions.com.

Syracuse’s great Fall Antiques Event continued in the tradition and format of Madison-Bouckville Management. Over 225 exhibitors booths featuring fine antiques.

Admission is $7.

Don’t call me an addict I am someone’s mother wife daughter sister I have a substance use disorder For help call (315) 471-1359

continued on page 16 OCTOBER 2017 SYRACUSE PARENT

15

calendar Saturday, Oct. 21

Symphoria Kids: Superheroes!

10:30 a.m., Inspiration Hall, 709 James St., Syracuse; experiencesymphoria.org.

Come in costume for this high flying performance, as Symphoria shows off its superstrength, super-speed and super-sound, while performing epic music of your favorite superhero.

Symphoria’s Instrument Discovery Zone opens at 10 a.m., prior to all kids’ series performances.

Admission is $10 to $15. Under 18 free.

Saturdays and Sundays, Oct. 21-22 and 28-29 Zoo Boo 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Rosamond Gifford Zoo, Syracuse; rosamondgiffordzoo.org.

The zoo will be transformed into a bustling Halloween bash with hauntingly hilarious activities for kids and families to enjoy.

The “kooky not spooky” theme provides Halloween fun without the fear! Kids (and parents) costumes are encouraged! Daytime hours means Zoo Boo participants can see the entire zoo and animal collection! Admission: $8 per child, in addition to regular zoo admission.

Tuesday, Oct. 24 Autumn Serenades 7 p.m., Temple Concord, 910 Madison St., Syracuse; experiencesymphoria.org.

The Regina F. Goldenberg Cultural Series presents Symphoria Wind Ensembles in a concert that will feature serenades, (typically

light, romantic melodies, reminiscent of the original form, which was music played with the intent to charm or beguile a lover) by well-known composers including Mozart, Brahms, Elgar and Schubert, among others.

Light refreshments and an opportunity to meet the musicians follow the program.

Admission is $10.

Wednesday-Sunday, Oct. 25-Nov. 12 “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time”

required for entrance to Enchanted Beaver Lake, will go on sale at the Golden Harvest Festival at Beaver Lake on Sept. 9 and 10 for visitors attending the festival. Tickets will be available to purchase at Beaver Lake beginning Sept. 11, while supplies last. Tickets may be purchased over the phone after Sept. 11, while supplies last. Mailing for all phone orders is an additional $1 per order. A limited number of these tickets will be sold, and are annually sold out. Entry to the event is $3 per person (3 and under free) and is paid at the gate.

Friday-Sunday, Oct. 27- Nov. 12

Showtimes vary, Syracuse Stage, 820 East Genesee St., Syracuse; 315-443-3275, syracusestage.org.

Meet Christopher John Francis Boone. At 15 years old, he knows all the capital cities in the world and every prime number up to 7,507.

But he struggles to understand the world around him. When Christopher is suspected of murdering his neighbor’s dog, he sets out to find the real culprit. Based on Mark Haddon’s international best-selling novel and winner of the Tony Award for Best Play.

Landmark Theatre, 362 S. Salina St., Syracuse; nacentertainment.com.

In its 20th year one of the most popular stage musicals in the world has won six Tony Awards and earned more than 70 major arts awards. Check website for ticket prices and performance times.

Thursday-Sunday, Oct. 26-29

Halloween Fun Days

Enchanted Beaver Lake 6–8:30 p.m., Beaver Lake Nature Center, Baldwinsville; 315-638-2519.

Enter an Enchanted world where beautifully carved pumpkins light your way along two one-third-mile trails.

Advance sale parking tickets for $5,

Disney’s “The Lion King”

Saturday-Sunday, Oct. 28-29 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Great Swamp Conservancy, 8375 N.Main St., Canastota; 315-697-2950.

This non-scary, family-friendly event will feature multiple indoor scenes that offer family-friendly interactive experiences with an environmental twist, along with games, crafts, story time, pinatas and food. Tickets: $3 per child 12 and under, $1 adults.

BLESSED SACRAMENT SCHOOL

3 year olds through 6th grade Elementary School Accredited by the Middle States Commission Offering Faith, Knowledge, Discipline, Morals, and Dividends for Life since 1931.

Tours available. Call for an appointment.

59198_5

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

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

16

SYRACUSE PARENT OCTOBER 2017

Movies

from page 8

of camp counselors stalked and murdered by an unknown assailant while trying to reopen a summer camp which, years before, was the site of a child’s drowning is a classic, but somewhat kitschy movie in retrospect, since special effects have advanced so far since 1980.

2. “Scream” - A year after the murder of her mother, a teenage girl is terrorized by a new killer, who targets the girl and her friends by using horror films as part of a deadly game.

3. “Shaun of the Dead” – This horror/comedy movie with zombies gets five stars in our household.

4. “Insidious” - A family looks to prevent evil spirits from trapping their comatose child in a realm called “The Further.” There is also an excellent sequel to this movie that is well worth watching if you want to do a double feature.

5. “The Conjuring” - Paranormal investigators work to help a family terrorized by a dark presence in their farmhouse. This movie not only has a binge-worthy sequel, but also a spin-off movie that

is also great, “Annabelle,” about the spooky doll featured in the movie.

6. “The Ring” – This movie is PG13, but has a rated R scare factor.

In it, a journalist must investigate a mysterious videotape that, when watched, causes the viewer to die.

7. “Final Destination” – Any of the five movies in this series are great. In each movie, a teenager has a terrifying vision where he or she and his or her friends die in a tragic accident. They go on to prevent the accident, only to have death hunt them down, one by one.

8. “Carrie” – A twist on the classic teenage angst movie, where a shy, friendless girl who is sheltered by her domineering, religious mother, unleashes her telekinetic powers after being humiliated by her classmates at her senior prom.

9. “I Know What You Did Last Summer” – After a nasty accident, four friends begin to drift apart but, a year later, a slicker-wearing, hook-wielding killer stalks them.

10. “Scary Movie 1-5” - For a more lighthearted take on the horror genre, these movies specialize in parodying scary films that were movie theater blockbusters.

OCTOBER 2017 SYRACUSE PARENT

17

Thanksgiving Coloring Contest

Show your holiday creativity and enter for a chance to win a family four-pack to WonderWorks in DestinyUSA! Name Address 18

SYRACUSE PARENT OCTOBER 2017

Phone

Age

Send your completed entry to:

2501 James St., Suite 100 Syracuse, NY 13206