Prime living jan 2015

PRIME opinion: 2015: A year of goals, opportunities.

prime health: American Heart Association winter weather warning

Prime Fun From hoops to hikes, browse the calendar of events inside for winter happenings.

Deaths from heart disease rise rapidly during the cold months.

“With the new year stretching before me, I am thinking of what I’d like to accomplish during the 12 months ahead.”

Living!

PRIME See page 3.

To read more see page 6.

To read more see page 3.

January 2015

A supplement to Eagle

Newspapers

Silverhammers

tinker away for a good cause

By Ashley M. Casey When a group of retirees became disillusioned with the direction of the local Habitat for Humanity chapter, they struck out on their own to do construction projects for a cause.

Since their formation in 2010, the Silverhammers have raised more than $250,000 for local charities and built numerous decks, porches, playhouses and kitchen cabinets for area homeowners.

Instead of making a buck off their projects, the Silverhammers tell their clients to send their payment to one of four local charities: the Syracuse Ronald McDonald House, the Samaritan Center, Vera House or In My Father’s Kitchen.

One of their recent projects is the summer 2014 restoration of the historic 1880s gazebo in Manlius.

Silverhammers member Paul Mabe said that the rebuilt gazebo is made of weather- and insect-resistant

The Silverhammers on the job.

See silverhammers, page 2

A‘Forget musician’s mission Me Nots’ share the power of music and need to be productive,” she said.

During her tenure as a teacher, she worked at LaFayette High School and Durgee Junior High School as well as in Liverpool and Fayetteville.

A busy time She calls her last 20 years of teach-

Francine Berg

marc safran photography

ing, at HW Smith Elementary School, “the best 20 years of my teaching career.”

“When I got there in 1987, the school was just transitioning to a multicultural population [so] I decided to See forget me nots, page 2

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By Jennifer Wing Jamesville resident Francine Berg is busy – very busy – and that’s just the way she likes it.

“I knew when I retired from teaching seven years ago, I needed a plan to do something. I am very goal oriented,

Photo courtesy of Jack Hennessey

Forget Me Nots change my music program to fit the needs of the school,” Berg said. “I developed a multicultural program, singing in the languages of the children, and singing about love, peace, tolerance and respect for each other. I created a chorus called ‘The Rainbow Kids’ and we sang 30 concerts a year throughout the community and even became the children’s chorus for the Syracuse Opera Company for three years.”

As if her plate was not full already, she also was cantor at Temple Concord, a time she treasures.

“I had a wonderful experience during my 33 years at Temple Concord,” she said.

“I sang at all the Friday night services, High Holy days, tutored all the [B’nai] Mitzvah students, conducted a volunteer choir, children’s choir, and professional choir, had a small band that played some Friday night services [and] taught Sunday school music.

Eventually, though, it was time to retire, and the reason was family-driven.

“I needed to retire from temple because I became the caregiver of my father who has dementia,” she said. “I moved him to Syracuse two-and-a-half years ago from Florida.

Her father is now living in assisted living locally. “It was just too much pressure taking care of a 94-year-old man with all his medical issues. My Mom, Lynn Mitchell, still lives in Florida, and still sings and dances at 92. She auditioned for ‘America’s Got Talent’ last March, but did not make the finals. Still, at 92 - tap dancing!”

She has a full family life, and her husband, Barry Berg, retired last January from Upstate Medical University, where he was a professor of anatomy for 42 years. She married Barry, a widower, in 1979, and with him raised his two children, Mark and Jen. They also now have four grandchildren.

A new road She found she had time on her hands, so Berg started to play piano and sing at Menorah Park.

“The activity director asked me if I

From page 1 would play downstairs in the Memory Unit, and, of course, I said yes,” she said. “Well, I fell in love with these people, and saw that music made a difference in their day. They smiled, sang along with me, and memories were triggered. They started relating stories to me about their past. I created two large songbooks, so that the residents can sing from these, using their cognitive skills as best they can.”

She began participating in a workshop for the Alzheimer’s Association, and received numerous calls to sing for different programs and facilities.

“When I brought my dad to Syracuse, I started singing at Clare Bridge [of Manlius],” she said.

And the response has been amazing there, according to Deena Dombroski, sales and marketing manager at Clare Bridge.

“Fran is really entertaining,” Dombroski said. “She is lively and sings songs in the genre of their generation. She keeps them engaged while singing, walking among them and being energetic.”

Dombroski said music is an integral part of the memory community, and said that music is the last part of the brain’s memory to go in the advanced stages of dementia.

“So you see a huge response – whether it is snapping their fingers, tapping their toes, or singing – in those who may not have been talking or responding otherwise,” Domboski said. “Music transforms them, it soothes them, energizes them. It’s so powerful.”

At whatever facility she sang, Berg saw that “music made a difference. People who could not hold a conversation started to sing. It calmed many residents.”

She had one experience with a woman at Van Duyn who had not spoken is years.

“I kneeled down to her level and started to sing, ‘You Are My Sunshine,’ [and] she then began to sing with me.”

So, every week she was there, Berg would sing her song, and the woman would join in.

“Her private nurse cried when she saw

submitted photo

Francine Berg interacts with a member of the audience at one of her sing-along performances. her sing,” Berg said. “It’s moments like this that touch my heart.”

An idea is born Through her experiences, Berg realized the power of music was great, and wanted to expand the reach of that power by forming a group specifically designed to sing for those who suffer from dementia.

“Last year I received $11,000 in grant money to start a chorus for the caregiver and their loved one with dementia,” she said. “It is called ‘The Forget Me Nots,’ and is open to the community.”

She said she is seeking people to join the program.

Silverhammers

From page 1

Photo courtesy of Jack Hennessey

The Silverhammers restored the Manlius gazebo to its 1880s appearance this summer.

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“[I’m hoping that] more community members can take part,” she said. “The only requirement is that the people love to sing and can handle a 45 to 60-minute rehearsal.”

The program takes place at Menorah Park, is free and skilled nursing is available if needed.

“We have had two sessions already, with a concert at the end of each one,” Berg said. “The next eight-week session begins in March.”

For more information on how to join The Forget Me Nots, call Berg at 345-9122, or email her at songberg@ hotmail.com

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cypress and the ceiling was built with additional supports inside.

Jack Hennessey, of Baldwinsville, retired from National Grid as vice president of operations. He and about a dozen fellow former Habitat for Humanity volunteers devote three days a week to building and renovation projects. (The Silverhammers draw the line at roof repair and painting, however.)

Local contractors need not feel threatened: it’s not a competition for the Silverhammers.

“We’re not trying to take away work from people,” Hennessey said. “We think this is a fun way to [raise money].”

The Silverhammers handpicked their list of beneficiaries to maximize their local impact.

“We were all tilted toward human needs,” Hennessey said. “We all share the same philosophy that it’s appropriate for us — for people — to give back to their towns.”

Not only are the Silverhammers giving back to local charities, but they’re keeping themselves busy and entertained, too.

“We gain camaraderie and energy,” Hennessey said.

The youngest Silverhammer is 60 and the oldest is 79, but Hennessey said they aren’t looking for new volunteers at this time.

“We’re happy the way we are for the time being, but we could use more work,” he said.

To learn more about the Silverhammers and to see photos of their projects, visit silverhammers.com. To inquire about possible projects, email or call Paul Mabe at paul@ silverhammers.com or 391-3105.

Eaglenewspapers

2015: A year of goals, opportunities With the new year stretching before me Jennifer like a clean blanket of snow, I am thinking of what I would like to accomplish during the 12 Momsense months ahead. Here are my top 10: 1. Spend more time with the kids.

Although we are pretty good at doing things as a family, I only have to look at our schedule to see that getting together for fun family activities won’t be without obstacles, what with sports and other commitments.

The kids are getting so big, so fast, and I already feel like there are so many things we could have done, but didn’t out of a sheer lack of time. I am going to make the time this year, not just for big things like vacations and going to ballgames and concerts, but for the little things, like sitting down to listen to them when they talk about their day, taking walks around the neighborhood and at local parks, spending time goofing around at camp during the summer and just hanging out, talking about nothing and everything over a good meal.

2. Try hiking.

Now that I am feeling better after surgery on my knee, I find that I am embracing more in the way of physical activity.

Don’t get me wrong; I am not an outdoorswoman. I don’t like to camp, fish or hunt. But taking a hike to a scenic view, stopping along the way to grab breaths of fresh air – I think that might be just the ticket on a cool winter or spring day.

3. Work on the house.

I don’t mean that I’ll be picking up a hammer or installing carpet. What I do mean is changing the color scheme in my front hall and kitchen, doing some pruning of bushes when the weather warms up, staining the deck and working on some interior decorating – it would be great to put in place some new furniture and accessories.

4. Try new recipes.

Many of my meals are tried-and-true but predictable. I want to experiment with the many recipes I’ve been clipping from magazines and just putting in a drawer, telling myself, “I’ll try these some time.” Well, that time is now.

True, my husband and children are not very adventurous when it comes to food, but I’m not talking about making something overly exotic, just different.

5. Become more involved.

I really want to be more engaged in my community.

Wing

I spend a lot of time at the gym, but perhaps I could also get involved with different organizations, such as those involved with the school district.

6. Run, run run.

I’ve really not run the way I did before I injured my knee skiing. I plan to return gradually to where I was before my surgery. It will be a great gut-check for me to make sure I’m keeping in good cardiovascular condition.

7. Try to take up skiing – again.

I’ve skied since I was five, but have been nervous about returning to the slopes since my injury. In fact, I’ve already said I’m not sure I’ll ski this season, but perhaps I will hit the slopes before all is said and done.

If I don’t do it before this season is over, my goal is to do it this upcoming season - hopefully.

8. Learn my roots.

I want to do some research into my family tree, and with many different programs/websites, that will hopefully be an attainable goal. I also need to spend more time learning how to make Polish dishes, which maybe could have been listed above, under “try new recipes,” but food is such a part of my heritage I feel it’s more appropriate here.

I hope to be able to pass this knowledge, once gained, down to my children.

9. Go to camp.

This is always a goal of mine, so it’s not really new, but again, with my children more involved in activities, I need to keep my eye on making time to hit the beach this summer.

10. Share good news.

In my position as managing editor at Eagle Newspapers, I am well-informed about issues affecting me and my family; one of my duties at Eagle is to make sure these issues are reported in a fair and balanced manner, and it is important to remain impartial.

What I don’t have to be impartial about, however, is in trumpeting the achievements of those in my community who make a difference; those who, by living in my, and your, neighborhood, make it better.

So I invite all of our readers to write or

email me to let me know about these everyday heroes – the people who make an impact in our lives and ask nothing in return. Send your thoughts about your neighbors to: Jennifer Wing Managing Editor Eagle Newspapers 2501 James St., Suite 100 Syracuse, NY 13206 Or email me at jwing@eaglenewsonline.com.

Happy new year, everyone!

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Prime calendar Friday, Jan. 9

Silver Knights soccer vs. Harrisburg Heat 7: p.m., The Oncenter War Memorial Arena, 800 S. State St., Syracuse; syracusesilverknights.com. Ticket prices vary.

Friday-Sunday, Jan. 9-11

“Lend Me a Tenor” 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday, Central New York Playhouse, 3649 Erie Blvd.

E., Syracuse; cnyplayhouse.com.

Set in September 1934, this sensation on Broadway and in London’s West End is a madcap, screwball comedy. Ticket prices vary.

Saturday, Jan. 10

Syracuse Crunch Ice Hockey vs. WilkesBarre/Scranton Penguins 7 p.m. The Oncenter War Memorial Arena, 800 S. State St., Syracuse; syracusecrunch.com.

Ticket prices vary.

Winter Farmer’s Market 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., Baltimore Woods Nature Center, 4007 Bishop Hill Road, Marcellus; baltimorewoods.org.

Enjoy a diverse mix of local farm and artisanal food products from top regional producers. Held indoors with free parking.

Sunday, Jan. 11

SU Men’s Basketball vs. Florida State 8 p.m., Carrier Dome, 900 Irving Ave.,

Eaglenewspapers

Syracuse; cuse.com. Ticket prices vary.

Sundays, Jan. 11,18,25

Try snowshoeing 12:30 p.m., Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 East Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville; onondagacountyparks.com.

This snowshoe clinic will include instructions and a short snowshoe hike. Registration is required beginning at 8 a.m. the day of the hike and space is limited. Ofered only when snow conditions are acceptable; call 638-2519 that day to register and check conditions. Cost is $5 per person, includes snowshoe rentals.

Tuesday, Jan. 13

Syracuse University Men’s Basketball vs.

Wake Forest 8 p.m., Carrier Dome, 900 Irving Ave., Syracuse; cuse.com.

The Orange take on Wake Forest at the Dome. Ticket prices vary.

Wednesday, Jan. 14

Afternoon Tea at the Landmark Theatre 1 p.m., Landmark Theatre, 362 S. Salina St., Syracuse; landmarktheatre.org, 475-7979.

An afternoon tea in the elegant and luxurious Gilded Mezzanine will be feature the best of exotic and traditional tea blends from around the world, paired with delicious food offerings of soups, sandwiches, scones, pastries and more. Tickets are $30.

Wednesdays, Jan.14, 21, 28

Weekday Snowshoe Jaunt 1:30 p.m., Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 East Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville; onondagacountyparks.com.

Enjoy an hour-long outing through Beaver Lake’s winter woods. Benefit from a naturalist’s insights, along with the light aerobic exercise.

Free with center admission.

Thursday, Jan. 15

Life Under the Ice Field Guide Series 1:30 – 3:30 p.m., Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 East Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville; onondagacountyparks.com.

Join a naturalist for this two-hour program.

Cost is $6 per person. Advance registration required; 638-2519.

Thursday-Sunday, Jan. 15-18

“Lend Me a Tenor” 8 p.m. Thursday and Friday, dinner show Saturday (6:30 p.m. dinner, 8 p.m. show,) 2 p.m.

Sunday, Central New York Playhouse, 3649 Erie Blvd. E., Syracuse; cnyplayhouse.com.

Set in September 1934, this sensation on Broadway and in London’s West End is a madcap, screwball comedy. Ticket prices vary.

Friday, Jan. 16

Silver Knights vs. Rochester Lancers 7:30 p.m., The Oncenter War Memorial

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Arena, 800 S. State St., Syracuse; syracusesilverknights.com. Ticket prices vary.

Star Party: Winter Skies 7 – 9 p.m., Baltimore Woods Nature Center, 4007 Bishop Hill Road, Marcellus; baltimorewoods.org.

Winter skies at their finest. Back-up date Jan. 17. $5 for members, $8 for nonmembers.

Saturday, Jan. 17

Ravines Wine Cellars Dinner 6:30 – 10:30 p.m., Inns of Aurora, 391 Main St., Aurora; innsofaurora.com.

Join this renowned winery for a five paired course dinner. Reservations requested.

Sunday, Jan. 18

The Virtuoso Gamba in Consort 4 – 6 p.m., Pebble Hill Presbyterian Church, 5299 Jamesville Road, Dewitt; scholacantorumofsyracuse.org.

Schola Cantorum of Syracuse presents this concert featuring Alex Korolov on bass gamba, with viols, baroque violin and harpsichord perform the music of Krieger, Buxtehude, Couperin and others. Tickets are $15 or $10 for students and seniors.

Silver Knights vs. Harrisburg Heat soccer 1 p.m., The Oncenter War Memorial Arena, 800 S. State St., Syracuse; syracusesilverknights.com. Ticket prices vary.

See calendar, page 7

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Prime living

The importance of socializing as we age Submitted by Sprectrum Retirement Communities Marketing Manager Samantha McCue People so often say that “things are not like they used to be.” Do you remember a time when you socialized with folks in your neighborhood?

Due to the many changes in our culture, those memories seem to be of a time long ago. Getting to know your neighbors is no longer a given, due to time constraints, privacy, suspicion, and other diversions such as social media.

I remember back to when I was a young girl; my parents’ entire social group was our neighbors. There were block parties, backyard barbecues, bridge night and holiday get-togethers.

Seniors, especially, have a tendency to become isolated in their own homes, because of the previous reasons, but also because they may no longer drive and may have limited mobility.

Those who have recently lost a spouse feel even lone-

lier. As friends are also passing away or moving away, a senior living in his or her home may find it extremely difficult to make new friends.

Adult children have their own busy lives or may not even live in the same town.

Going through these life changes, added to loss of physical abilities, difficulty hearing or seeing, or health challenges, frequently results in depression in seniors.

Laughing and creating new memories are the best medicine to get someone’s mind off the negative and refocused on the many things for which a senior could be grateful.

Socialization must be a priority as we age. It has been proven that folks over the age of 55 benefit the most from an active social life. Some of those benefits include life extension, stress reduction, mental stimulation and a feeling of belongingness that all humans need. Socialization can come in many forms-dining with others, playing card games, belonging to clubs, going to the theatre, and group exercise classes.

submitted photo

Senior retirement communities such as Parkrose Estates Retirement Community make it easy to engage in these activities and more. With new friendships comes a revitalized interest in living the best of your life for the rest of your life. If you or a senior you know are feeling lonely and miss the feeling of belong-

ing to a community, visit Parkrose Estates Retirement Community. It offers a wide variety of activities, amenities and services that put the

spring back in your step.

Parkrose Estates Retirement Community is an independent living community located at 7251 Janus

Park Drive, Liverpool, NY 13088. Please call 350-3671 to schedule a time for a tour and to enjoy lunch or dinner.

Whiteout: vintage snowmobile event held The 15th Annual Great Eastern Whiteout at 609 W. Broadway in Fulton starts Friday, Feb. 13, featuring a vintage snowmobile show and swap meet, vintage sled oval racing, vintage and newer drag racing, a 30-mile vintage sled trail ride to the War Memorial and back, a raffle and much more.

The event kicks off with the Whiteout Warmup Party from 6 to 10 p.m. on Friday at RFH’s Restaurant in Phoenix. Show registration is at 8 a.m. on Saturday, with races starting at 11 a.m.

On Sunday, snowmobilerelated and food vendors will be featured at the War Memorial, with drag races and trail ride sign-ups starting at 8 a.m. Sunday’s races include newer and vintage races, a “Run What Ya

Brung” race and the “Bun Bun” 100, the 2015 Vintage Snowmobile Enduro Race at Lake Neatahwanta.

(Racing is dependent on ice conditions; call 592-4537, 592-4892 or 652-6903 for more information.) Also featured Sunday will be a vintage trail ride to breakfast and back to the War Memorial; departure time is 9 a.m. for the ride, which is about 30 miles long. During the event, raffle tickets for a 1970

photo by sean haney

Scorpion super Stinger that boasts a custom paint job by Par-K Body Shop in Fulton will be sold. Organizers estimate that up to 4,000 people attend each year, making it one of the largest vintage snowmobile events in the Northeast. Part of the proceeds benefit the Spike Nolan and Everet Regal Scholarship fund and other local charities. For more information visit thegreateasternwhiteout.com.

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Madison/Onondaga Oneida/Cortland Counties

Eaglenewspapers

Steps to keep safe and warm during winter weather With winter now here, New Yorkers need to be prepared for lots of snow and frigid temperatures.

If your home or business uses propane to generate heat or run appliances, the New York Propane Gas Association provides these tips to keep your family safe and warm: Be prepared Make sure you have an adequate propane supply.

During and after a winter storm, roads may be inaccessible for delivery. It is recommended that you establish a regular delivery schedule with your propane retailer. ✓ Make sure your heating system and appliances are running efficiently. Have a qualified service technician annually inspect and service your appliances and propane system. This will ensure that your appliances are running as efficiently as possible, conserving fuel and saving dollars. ✓ Mark the location of your tank with a flag, pole, or stake. The marker should be higher than the average snow cover depth for your location. It will help you avoid plowing or shoveling rooftop snow on top of your tank. Should your tank become covered with snow, use a broom to clear it. ✓ Check your chimneys, flue pipes, vent connectors, and propane tank for damage, blockage, or debris caused by snow and

ice. Use a broom rather than a shovel, and clear these areas frequently. This will help reduce the possibility of carbon monoxide poisoning due to blocked or damaged chimneys, flues, and vents. ✓ Use extreme caution when operating portable generators. Never use a portable generator (gasoline, diesel, or propane) indoors or in enclosed areas. This can result in carbon monoxide poisoning or death. ✓ Never use a stove for space heating and never use outdoor propane appliances indoors or in enclosed areas. Proper ventilation is necessary for their safe operation; and carbon monoxide fumes emitted can be lethal. Only use appliances indoors that are designed and approved for indoor use.

Keep warm ✓ C h e c k c au l k i n g around doors and windows ✓ Get storm windows in place and secure ✓ Check insulation in the attic and basements ✓ Seal air leaks around openings where plumbing or electrical wiring goes through walls, floors and ceilings Stay safe Take immediate action if you smell gas inside or outside your home or business. Follow these simple instructions: ✓ No flames or sparks!

Immediately put out all

smoking materials and other open flames. Do not operate or turn on or off lights, appliances, telephones or cell phones. ✓ Leave the area immediately! Get everyone out of the building or area where you suspect gas is leaking. ✓ Shut off the gas. Turn off the main gas supply valve on your propane tank, if it is safe to do so.

To close the valve, turn it to the right (clockwise). ✓ Report the leak. From a neighbor’s home or other building away from the gas leak, call your propane retailer right away. If you can’t reach your propane retailer, call 911 or your local fire department. ✓ Do not return to the building or area until your propane retailer, emergency responder, or qualified service technician determines that it is safe to do so. ✓ Get your system checked. Before you attempt to use any of your propane appliances, your propane retailer or a qualified service technician must check your entire system to ensure that it is leak-free.

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The New York Propane Gas Association also offers an interactive online safety module for winter

preparedness at propanesafety.com/winterstormpreparedness.

Propane users can find

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Prime health

Winter weather warning

Deaths from heart disease rise rapidly during cold months Submitted by Kristy Smorol American Heart Association communications director With cold temperatures and lots of snow predicted in Central New York, the American Heart Association is warning people to protect their hearts in the cold weather.

People who may be at high risk include those with existing heart disease or stroke, people with a strong family history, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smokers, those who are overweight and the sedentary. For these individuals, the stresses of the season may pose extra concern. The American Heart Association is urging individuals to exercise due caution to avoid sudden cardiac death.

Deaths from coronary artery disease tend to rise rapidly in the cold winter months. Several factors may influence this unfortunate trend, from an increase in respiratory infections during the winter, to increased workload on the heart from activities such as shoveling of heavy snow.

The American Heart Association recommends the following tips to help respond to and prevent sudden cardiac arrest: Avoid sudden cold weather exertion Snowstorms present particular challenges for everyone, primarily because getting rid of the snow usually means sudden exertion in cold weather. In and of itself, snow shoveling can be healthy, good exercise, but not if you are normally sedentary, are in poor physical condition, or have risk factors that make snow shoveling inadvisable for your health. Everyone who must be outdoors in cold weather should avoid sudden exertion, like lifting a heavy shovel full of snow. Even walking through heavy, wet snow or snowdrifts can strain a person’s heart.

Recognize the symptoms of hypothermia Hypothermia occurs when your body can’t produce enough energy to keep the internal body temperature warm enough, causing it to fall below normal. It can kill you. Heart failure causes most deaths in hypothermia. Symptoms include lack of

coordination, mental confusion, slowed reactions, shivering and sleepiness.

Children, the elderly and those with heart disease are at special risk. As people age, their ability to maintain a normal internal body temperature often decreases.

Because elderly people seem to be relatively insensitive to moderately cold conditions, they can suffer hypothermia without knowing they’re in danger.

Stay warm People with coronary heart disease often suffer chest pain or discomfort called angina pectoris when they’re in cold weather.

Besides cold temperatures, high winds, snow and rain also can steal body heat.

Wind is especially dangerous, because it removes the layer of heated air from around your body. Similarly, dampness causes the body to lose heat faster than it would at the same temperature in drier conditions.

To keep warm, wear layers of clothing.

This traps air between layers, forming a protective insulation. Also, wear a hat or headscarf. Much of your body’s heat can be lost through your head and ears are especially prone to frostbite. Keep your hands and feet warm, too, as they tend to lose heat rapidly.

Avoid alcohol before heading outdoors Alcohol gives an initial feeling of warmth, but this is caused by expanding blood vessels in the skin. Heat is then drawn away from the body’s vital organs.

Alcohol consumption and physical activity in harsh winter weather conditions can increase the likelihood of hypothermia.

Learn CPR and/or hands-only CPR CPR: About 80 percent of all out-ofhospital cardiac arrests occur in private residential settings, so being trained to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) can mean the difference between life and death for a loved one. Effective bystander CPR, provided immediately after cardiac arrest, can double a victim’s chance of survival. The American Heart Association conducts courses convenient to everyone. To access a course listing, log

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on to the AHA’s web site at www.heart.org/ eccclassconnector.

Hands-only CPR: Hands-only CPR is CPR without mouth-to-mouth breaths. It is recommended for use by people who see an adult suddenly collapse in the “out-ofhospital” setting (like at home, at work, in a park). It offers an easy to remember and effective option to those bystanders who have been previously trained in CPR but are afraid to help because they are not con-

fident that they can remember and perform the steps of conventional CPR. It consists of two steps: 1. Call 911 (or send someone to do that).

2. Begin providing high-quality chest compressions by pushing hard and fast in the center of the chest with minimal interruptions.

For additional information on handsonly CPR and to watch an instructional video visit handsonlycpr.org.

Crouse Hospital awarded $2 million for emergency service expansion Crouse Hospital will receive $2 million in state funding for the renovation of its emergency services facilities, including its emergency room (ER) and PromptCare urgent care clinic. The award was included as part of round four of the state’s Regional Economic Development Council (REDC) process, which recently awarded $80 million for 85 projects in the Central New York Region.

Crouse has already started the planning and design process for the expanded ER, which will increase in size from 8,000 to 16,000 square feet.

As part of the project, the hospital will relocate its PromptCare urgent care service from its current location across the street to the space presently occupied by the existing emergency department (ED). The new ER will be located directly above the Witting Surgical Center in adjacent space that has already been constructed for this purpose.

The hospital will launch a major capital campaign in 2015 in support of the $35 million project, which is expected to be completed in early 2017.

“This award from the state is a welcome and much appreciated kick-start for this important project,”

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said Crouse CEO Kimberly Boynton. “We thank the members of the CNY REDC, including co-chairs Kent Syverud, chancellor of Syracuse University and Rob Simpson, president of CenterState CEO, for their leadership in this process, which is helping to transform the CNY economy on many levels.”

Crouse’s original ER, constructed in 1972, has had minor updates over the decades. It was last updated in 2008, but is outdated, undersized given rising patient volumes – a nearly 39 percent increase over the last seven years – and inefficiently configured.

Crouse’s total emergency services volume is the highest in the city, with over 72,000 ER/PromptCare patient visits in 2013.

Despite the physical limitations of the current facility, Crouse has focused on enhancing the patient intake process in the ER to make it more efficient and responsive to the needs of patients. Today, the hospital has the the lowest “door-to-provider” times of any area ED and its “door-to-intervention” time for heart attack treatment is the lowest in the city, and among the lowest in the nation.

As the major “gateway” to medical and health

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services, the emergency department plays a unique and important role in making one of the most costeffective decisions in healthcare: whether or not to admit patients to the hospital. By streamlining diagnosis and treatment of critical illness and the complications of chronic disease, EDs are the first line of defense in preventing unnecessary admissions and providing follow-up interventions, both of which will be enhanced in the expanded emergency/ PromptCare setting.

A key focus of Crouse’s expanded emergency services will be to provide proactive assessment and intervention for patients, particularly those who may be considered high risk/cost patients, such as those with COPD or those who may be substance abusers.

“Individual patients and the community at large will benefit from this project in very real, tangible ways,” said Boynton. “Enhanced levels of care, improvements in the patient experience and serving as a ‘gateway’ for social and behavioral health interventions are all outcomes we expect as a result of this project.”

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Springside knitting group has a busy season Submitted by Marion Ciciarelli It’s knit one, purl two and much more for a group of Springside at Seneca Hill residents that have found a way to enjoy a hobby that also benefits others.

With the cooler weather, the Springside Knitting Group has become very busy as it is the season for making scarves, hats, mittens, muffs and more.

Sharon Figiera and Lorraine Nash, who live at Springside, Oswego Health’s retirement facility for active seniors, st ar ted t heir knitting group after coming into some yarn. At the time, Figiera also thought it would be a great way to keep some hands nimble.

“I am a retired nurse and I’ve heard some of my fellow residents say they used to knit, but it now hurt their hands,” she explained. “So I thought the club would be a good way to start them knitting again as well as a way to exercise, move muscles and improve dexterity.”

It could be said that Figiera believes that knitting heals. Not so long ago, she once again located her knitting needles and found it comforting

as she recovered from a serious illness. Soon, Figiera and Nash had 10 other Springside women knitting alongside them in Springside’s librar y each week.

Springside’s Chief Operating Officer, Teresa Ferlito, said, “It’s quite impressive how many items they can make, and what beautiful work they do. The knitting group was organized by Figiera and Nash, and has enticed several knitters to get back to their craft.”

After a few months of knitting, what to do with all their handmade hats, mittens, scarves and other items was never a problem. In the past they provided mittens, hats and scarves to some 168 families. During the last season, visiting students were all given their own small hand-knit stocking for the holidays. The sale of some of their knitted goods at Springside’s Soup Lovers Lunches allowed the group to donate money to charities. The knitters supported the jail ministry with new Bibles at the Oswego County Jail and the Food Bank of Central New York in this manner. “I just feels good

submitted photo

With the cooler weather of these autumn days, the Springside Knitting Group has become very busy as it is the season for making scarves, hats, mittens, muffs and more. In the past they provided mittens, hats and scarves to 168 families. During the last season, visiting students were all given their own small hand-knit stocking for the holidays. The sale of some of their knitted goods at Springside’s Soup Lovers Lunches allowed the group to donate money to charities. The knitters supported the jail ministry with new Bibles at the Oswego County Jail and the Food Bank of Central New York. to contribute,” Nash said.

During their knitting gatherings, they not only share needles and yarn but a few stories, too. “We share a lot of memories

and have some pretty good discussions,” Nash said.

Springside at Seneca Hill is located off of Route 481 between Oswego and

Fulton. Residents enjoy independent living in t heir ap ar t ments and houses within the community. Springside is an affiliate of Oswego

Calendar SU Men’s Basketball vs.

Boston College 7 p.m., Carrier Dome, 900 Irving Ave., Syracuse; cuse. com. Ticket prices vary.

Thursday, Jan. 22

Lee Brice and Chris Young: ‘One Night Live’ TBD, Oncenter, 760 S. State St., Syracuse; oncenter.org.

Two of country’s biggest stars will bring their “One Night Live Tour,” with special guests Brothers Osborne opening the show. Ticket prices vary and will be available in person at the Solvay Bank Box Office, by phone at 435-2121 or at ticketmaster. com. For more information about the performers visit leebrice.com or chrisyoungcountry.com.

Thursday-Saturday, Jan. 22-24

“Lend Me a Tenor” 8 p.m. each night, Central New York Playhouse, 3649 Erie Blvd. E., Syracuse; cnyplayhouse.com.

Set in September 1934, this sensation on Broadway and in London’s West End is a madcap, screwball comedy.

Ticket prices vary.

Friday, Jan. 23

Syracuse Crunch vs Lehigh Valley Phantoms 7 p.m., The Oncenter War Eaglenewspapers

Marion Ciciarelli is public relations manager for Oswego Health, 110 West Sixth St., Oswego, NY 13126; 349-5601, mciciarelli@ oswegohealth.org.

From page 3 Memorial Arena, 800 S. State St., Syracuse; syracusecrunch. com. Ticket prices vary.

Owl Prowl 7 – 9 p.m., Baltimore Woods Nature Center Inc., 4007 Bishop Hill Road, Marcellus; baltimorewoods.org.

Join a naturalist on a nighttime hike in search of these magnificent and secretive birds. Dress warmly, and bring a flashlight. Snowshoes provided. $5 for members, $8 for nonmembers.

St., Syracuse; syracusecrunch. com. Ticket prices vary.

Symphoria – The Promise of Hope (Masterworks) 7:30 – 9:30 p.m., The Oncenter Civic Center Theaters,

421 Montgomery St., Syracuse; experiencesymphoria.org.

Michael Lankester conducts the Hawthorne Quartet .Ticket prices vary; children under 18 get in free.

On the table with artist Laura Cosgrave 2 – 3 p.m., Paine Branch Library, 113 Nichols Ave., Syracuse; onlib.org.

Drawings based on the

front page of “The New York Times” will be presented as a conceptual art project involving the front page, India ink and handmade paper. Free.

See calendar, page 8

Friday– Sunday, Jan. 23-25

SU Opera: Henry Purcell’s “Dido and Aeneas” 8 p..m. Friday and Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday, Setnor Auditorium at Syracuse University, South Crouse Ave., Syracuse; syr.edu, 443-2191.

The Setnor School of Music will present Dido and Aeneas

by Henry Purcell, conducted

by Dr. Peppie Calvar and directed by Eric Johnson. The opera will be fully staged with orchestra. Tickets are $10.

Saturday, Jan. 24

SU Men’s Basketball vs.

Miami University 4 p.m., Carrier Dome, 900 Irving Ave., Syracuse; cuse. com. Ticket prices vary.

Syracuse Crunch vs.

Hartford Wolf Pack 7 p.m., The Oncenter War Memorial Arena, 800 S. State

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Tuesday, Jan. 20

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Calendar Saturday, Jan. 24

Johnston School of Irish Dance Hooley Fundraiser 5-9 p.m., American Legion Post 787; 5575 Legionnaire Drive, Cicero; johnstonirishdance.com.

Enjoy delicious food and drink; traditional Irish session music; Irish dance performance and a silent auction with over 100 items and raffles.

Help raise funds and represent Central New York at the 2015 World Irish Dance Championships being held this April in Montreal, Canada.

The Johnston School, now it its 21st year, has locations in Syracuse, Fayetteville, Watertown and Utica. The Johnston School’s 16 hand figure team is the current North American Champion. Tickets are presale $15/ $20 door; student $10; under 5 free.

Saturday-Sunday, Jan. 24-25

is required beginning at 8 a.m. the day of the hike and space is limited. Offered on snowshoes only when snow conditions are acceptable.

Thursday–Saturday, Jan. 29 - 31

Moonlight Skiing and Snowshoeing 9 p.m., Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 East Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville; onondagacountyparks.com.

The trails will remain open until 9 p.m. on these evenings if there is adequate snow cover. This is an opportunity for skiers and snowshoers to take advantage of the natural moonlight along Beaver Lake’s 10 miles of trails. At trails’ end is the visitor center with exhibits and a comfortable meeting place. Hot chocolate and other refreshments will be available. For their safety night visitors should remember to sign-in and sign-out at the visitor center, go with a friend, and bring a flashlight in case a section of the trail is especially dark. Free with nature center admission.

Friday, Jan. 30

Syracuse Crunch vs. Rochester Americans 7 p.m., The Oncenter War Memorial Arena, 800 S. State St., Syracuse; syracusecrunch. com. Ticket prices vary.

Saturday, Jan. 31

Snowshoe Feast 5 p.m., Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 East Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville; 6382519, onondagacountyparks. com.

First strap on snowshoes for a guided walk in the frozen woods. Then warm up in front of a crackling fire , enjoy a hearty meal, listen to the music of Colin Aberdeen’s guitar and enjoy some dessert with your blues. Cost is $35 per person, adults only, and advance registration is required.

Cuse Comedy Showcase 8 – 10:30 p.m., Central New York Playhouse, 3649 Erie Blvd. E., Syracuse; cnyplayhouse.com.

Six local comics will be competing for a cash prize, with the audience voting.

Tickets are $10 in advance and $12 at the door.

Sundays, Feb. 1, 8,15, 22

Try snowshoeing 12:30 p.m., Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 East Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville; onondagacountyparks.com.

This snowshoe clinic will include instructions and a short snowshoe hike. Registration is required beginning at 8 a.m. the day of the hike and space is limited. Offered only 39248_5

Weekend Guided Walk – “Tracking Wildlife on Snowshoes” 2 p.m., Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 East Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville; 6382519, onondagacountyparks. com.

Join a naturalist for an exploration of what the season has to offer. Free with nature center admission. Registration

From page 7 when snow conditions are acceptable. Cost is $5 per person, includes snowshoe rentals.

Tuesday, Feb. 3

SU Men’s Basketball vs.

Virginia Tech 9 p.m., Carrier Dome, 900 Irving Ave., Syracuse; cuse. com. Ticket prices vary.

Wednesday, Feb. 4

Syracuse Crunch vs. Hartford Wolf Pack 7 p.m., The Oncenter War Memorial Arena, 800 S. State St., Syracuse; syracusecrunch. com. Ticket prices vary.

Wednesdays, Feb. 4, 11, 25

Weekday Snowshoe Jaunt 1:30 p.m., Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 East Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville; onondagacountyparks.com.

Enjoy an hour-long outing through Beaver Lake’s winter woods. Benefit from a naturalist’s insights, along with the light aerobic exercise. Free with center admission.

Friday, Feb. 6

Syracuse Crunch vs.

Bridgeport Sound Tigers 7 p.m., The Oncenter War Memorial Arena, 800 S. State St., Syracuse; syracusecrunch. com. Ticket prices vary.

Friday and Sunday, Feb. 6 and 8

“A Little Night Music” 8 p.m. Friday, 2 p.m. Sunday, The Oncenter Civic Center Theaters, 421 Montgomery St., Syracuse; syracuseopera.com.

With a score by Stephen Sondheim, this enchanting new production of “A Little Night Music” traces countless forms of love and desire through the intersecting relationships of an irresistible cast of characters. Ticket prices vary.

Syracuse Crunch vs.

Springfield Falcons 7 p.m., The Oncenter War Memorial Arena, 800 S. State St., Syracuse; syracusecrunch. com. Ticket prices vary.

Saturday, Feb. 7

Tom Dwyer’s Winter Photography Workshop 8 a.m. – 3:45 p.m., Baltimore Woods Nature Center, 4007 Bishop Hill Road, Marcellus; baltimorewoods.org.

Want to enjoy winter and make memories at the same time? Let Tom show you how to capture that special beauty that most people never even notice. Open to photographers of all skill levels.

For more information or to register visit tomdwyerphoto. com or call 420-3513.

Sunday, Feb. 8

Local Harvest Dinner: Conversation & Cuisine 4 – 6:30 p.m., Baltimore Woods Nature Center, 4007 Bishop Hill Road, Marcellus; baltimorewoods.org.

Presented will be a panel of local growers, producers and

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farmers, along with the return of moderator Neil Miller, owner of Farmshed CNY and market manager of the Winter Farmers Market at Baltimore Woods. A delectable dinner created by a local chef using locally-sourced fare will follow. For more information check out the center’s website and Facebook page. $25 for members and $40 for nonmembers. Register online by Jan.30.

Wednesday, Feb. 11

Afternoon Tea at the Landmark Theatre 1 p.m., Landmark Theatre, 362 S. Salina St., Syracuse; landmarktheatre.org, 4757979.

An afternoon tea in the elegant and luxurious Gilded Mezzanine will be feature the best of exotic and traditional tea blends from around the world, paired with delicious food offerings of soups, sandwiches, scones, pastries and more. Tickets are $30.

“A Little Night Music” 7:30 p.m., The Oncenter Civic Center Theaters, 421 Montgomery St., Syracuse; syracuseopera.com.

With a score by Stephen Sondheim, this production traces countless forms of love and desire through intersecting relationships. Ticket prices vary.

Thursday, Feb. 12

Winter Adaptations Field Guide Series 1:30 – 3:30 p.m., Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 East Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville; onondagacountyparks.com.

Join a naturalist for this two-hour program. Cost is $6 per person. Advance registration required; 638-2519.

Friday and Sunday, Feb. 13 and 15

“A Little Night Music” 8 p.m. Friday, 2 p.m. Sunday, The Oncenter Civic Center Theaters, 421 Montgomery St., Syracuse; syracuseopera.com.

With a score by Stephen Sondheim, this production traces countless forms of love and desire through intersecting relationships. Ticket prices vary.

Friday-Sunday, Feb. 13-15

“Clybourne Park” 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday, Central New York Playhouse, 3649 Erie Blvd.

E., Syracuse; cnyplayhouse. com. Ticket prices vary.

This play explodes in two acts set 50 years apart. Act One takes place in 1959, as nervous community leaders anxiously try to stop the sale of a home to a black family.

Act Two is set in the same house in the present day, as the now predominantly African-American neighborhood battles to hold its ground in the face of gentrification.

Saturday, Feb. 14

Syracuse University Men’s Basketball vs. Duke 6 p.m., Carrier Dome, 900 Irving Ave., Syracuse; cuse. com. Ticket prices vary.

Spark II: Sweet Encounters: Music and Art at Everson 7:30 – 9:30 p.m., Everson Museum of Art, 401 Harrison St., Syracuse; experiencesymphoria.org.

Guitarist Ken Meyer perfoms during this art-infused evening. Ticket prices vary.

Under 18 get in free.

Winter Farmer’s Market 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., Baltimore Woods Nature Center, 4007 Bishop Hill Road, Marcellus; baltimorewoods.org.

Rnjoy a diverse mix of local farm and artisanal food products from top regional producers. Held indoors with free parking.

Saturday-Sunday, Feb. 14-15

Weekend Guided Walk – “ Tracking Wildlife on Snowshoes” 2 p.m., Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 East Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville; 6382519, onondagacountyparks. com.

Join a naturalist for an exploration of what the season has to offer. Free with nature center admission. Registration is required beginning at 8 a.m. the day of the hike and space is limited. This program will be offered on snowshoes only when snow conditions are acceptable.

Monday– Wednesday, Feb. 16-18

“Flashdance The Musical” 7:30 – 9:30 p.m., The Oncenter Civic Center Theaters, 421 Montgomery St., Syracuse; broadwayinsyracuse.com.

Celebrating its 30th anniversary, “Flashdance - The Musical” features a score that includes the biggest hit songs from the movie. Ticket prices vary.

Wednesday, Feb. 18

Syracuse University Men’s Basketball vs. Louisville University 7 p.m., Carrier Dome, 900 Irving Ave., Syracuse; cuse.com.Ticket prices vary.

Thursday, Feb. 19

Syracuse Silver Knights vs. Chicago Mustangs 7 p.m., The Oncenter War Memorial Arena, 800 S. State St., Syracuse; syracusesilverknights.com.

Ticket prices vary.

ThursdaySaturday, Feb. 19-21

“Clybourne Park” 8 p.m., Central New York Playhouse, 3649 Erie Blvd.

E., Syracuse; cnyplayhouse. com. Ticket prices vary.

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