Syracuse parent feb 2014

February 2014

healthy family

The magic of gratitude: Happier kids!

Happier parents!

cutest baby madness

Send in your pictures!

See page 5 for details

feature - Surviving with support & friendship: East Syracuse teachers raise awareness for brain aneurysms

healthy family

A letter to friends…

What’s your type? Operation awareness

By Patty Downey Palladino

Dear Friends, Remember me? I am the curly haired girl you used to have coffee with, meet for lunch, and oh yeah, I used to return your phone calls.

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I am writing to tell you I am really not a horrible friend. It’s been a long time, I know, but back in August 2010 I took on a second job – really all of us in our family did. We didn’t apply for it, we don’t really want it, and here’s the kicker – we have to pay for the job – not the other way around!

I am holding the position of CEO of Type 1 diabetes/Chatham Drive Division. I am responsible for various mathematics equations, pharmaceuticals needed them and needed know how to use them, continuous monitoring of type 1 (both the day and night shifts), keeping logs, being up-to-date on the latest technology, all medical requirements, ordering of all supplies needed, and public relations – to name a few.

The funny part is – I had no skills for this position – I have totally been winging it! This job consumes pretty much all of my time – hence I don’t get to see you much anymore. I do have assistance. My husband, daughter, and especially my son are all working for Type 1 too. They handle monitoring while I am at my “real” job – you know – the one that pays me.

They also handle the food supplies that are required-including food research and purchasing.

My husband and daughter are both involved in the job. However, my son has the worst job of all – he’s the owner of Type 1 diabetes/Chatham Drive Division. He took on this role in August 2010 when his immune system attacked itself and shut down insulin production in his pancreas. As the

owner, he has to act like a pancreas. He has to do all the jobs we do plus inject himself with medication, make himself bleed to check his glucose levels, and live with T1D – 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. He is our boss – making sure we all do our jobs. Even when we are all getting gold stars in our positions – the weather, growth spurts, excitement and so many variables can cause a T1D shutdown and he can pass out, get very sick, and sometimes have to go to the hospital.

We all get vacations – except my son. He never gets a day off. He goes away to Camp Aspire, a camp for children with diabetes, every summer for a week. That’s when the rest of us get vacation. We don’t have to do our jobs that week because people at the camp take them on for us. My son is still doing his job at camp and learning new ways to be a good owner of T1D. We are told that we can retire from these jobs someday, all of us but my son. They say when he gets older he will do all these jobs himself and won’t need us, the T1D staff.

However, we will never stop worrying.

Anyway, I want you to know that I still think of you, all the fun times we have had, and I miss our coffee breaks, lunches…all our time together! If we ever do get to retire, like they say, I will call you up and maybe we can get together?

Wishing you all the best, Patty, Type M: Mom of a child with diabetes To learn more about diabetes and summer camp for children with diabetes visit The American Diabetes Association’s website, diabetes.org.

To learn about the Palladino Family’s Diabetes Awareness Campaign, “Like What’s Your Type? Operation Awareness,” at facebook.com/WhatsyourtypeOperationawareness.

learning curve

We’re in this together: A Valentine’s Day Q&A

It’s amazing what might end up staying Cole m n a you can learn in g an in and cooking Me five minutes, so dinner and then we did just fighting over that with the remote your local because we evening can never anchoragree on woman, a show! It CNY Cenis nice to tral’s Megan be at home, W Coleman! have a glass e’r er e in Read on and of wine and curl this togeth learn about how up by a fire my her family spends quality husband has made. time together:

and I know working mothers can understand that. We’re always so busy and we don’t have time to stop and step back and take in the moment.

I got to watch the kids play and enjoyed having the time.

Every family is different, they face challenges, difficulties or breakups, but we need to surround ourselves with people that love us, whether it’s friends, family or co-workers, it’s the time over the holidays that sort of makes life that much better.

What does the family do for Valentine’s Day?

Megan Coleman is the content managing editor at CNY Central and an evening NBC 3 news anchor. Follow her and start a conversation on Twitter at @MegsNewsFlash; we already do!

What does a couple with two small children do for Valentine’s Day?

Occasionally we’ve gone out, but it gets trickier when you have kids and when you can’t get a sitter. Restaurants are so full and booked up, so we sometimes think that going the week before or after is better. And if one of the kids is sick or we can’t get a sitter, we stay in and cook.

Recently I took on a new schedule (at work) so now I’m able to stay up and have dinner with my husband.

Though, once we have the kids settled and off to bed, it’s already 9 or 9:30! So, we

She is recognizing that when there’s a holiday, something special happens, but she’s still learning and gets her holidays confused. With the excitement of New Year’s, she thought it was Christmas again! But then we started to talk about resolutions and what they mean. She was still really little last year so I will better explain Valentine’s Day this year. I love coming home on these holidays to see what she made. I have saved all of them so far and have filed them away in a cabinet.

Also, Henry is just learning how to talk and our nanny has been teaching him to say, “I love you.” She’ll point to her eye, pat her heart and then points to him for the “you.” So, now I say, “I love you,” to Henry and he pats his heart.

Cover Photo Pictured is Leah Bartosek, age 8 from Pulaski, N.Y. Photographed by Raine C. Dufrane, owner of Raineydayz Photography.

430.3229 or visit raineydayz.com.

IMMACULATE CONCEPTION ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Faith & Values • Academic Excellence • Family & Community • Full Day Kindergarten • Hot Lunch Program • Pre-K - 6th grade • Art Appreciation • One of the top academic schools • Technology Classes integrated in a three-county area on NYS tests. throughout the school • Spanish taught beginning in • Transportation available • Tuition Scholarships available Kindergarten • Instrumental & Vocal Music Programs • After School Program

Any final thoughts on the holiday and how families can spend it together?

It’s about that opportunity to take a breath and take a step back and appreciate your family. I had some time off during the holidays and sometimes I just feel like I’m going, going, going…

400 Salt Springs Street • Fayetteville • 637-3961 www.icschool.org Applications now being accepted. Please call for an appointment and personal tour.

Prestigious Middle States Accreditation

FEBRUARY 2014 SYRACUSE PARENT

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This year we might do something (as a couple).

Last year Olivia started doing little Valentine’s Day cards at school. It’s fun to go to the store and help pick them out...most likely Minnie Mouse or princesses. It will probably end up being something with Belle, Cinderella and Snow White. We have been living and breathing princesses these days, so I won’t be surprised when that’s picked out.

Does Olivia get excited about Valentine’s Day?

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meals in minutes

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

Easy meals from

the freezer

Looking for quick, make-ahead meals? These recipes allow you to freeze all the ingredients so you can make them on-demand in the slow cooker.

Black bean and corn salsa chicken

Ingredients 2 cans black beans, drained and rinsed 2 cans corn, drained 1 package taco seasoning six chicken breasts 1 cup salsa 3/4 cup water Directions Place all ingredients in gallon-sized freezer bag. Mix together in bag and zip closed. When ready to eat, remove from freezer and thaw in fridge overnight. Cook on HIGH for 3-4 hours or low for 7-8 hours.

When finished cooking, shred chicken and serve over rice, with a salad,or in a wrap.

Top with cheese, sour cream, avocado, lettuce and tomato.

Teriyaki pork chops

Ingredients 4 pork chops 2 garlic cloves, minced 2 tbsp brown sugar 1/4 cup soy sauce 1/3 cup chicken broth Directions Place pork chops in a gallon-sized freezer bag. In a small bowl mix garlic, brown sugar, soy sauce and chicken broth together, add to bag. Place flat in freezer, when ready to use thaw in fridge overnight.

Cook on high 4-5 hours or low 6-7 hours.

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SYRACUSE PARENT FEBRUARY 2014

Pepper steak

Ingredients 1 1/2 lbs round steak, cut into strips 1/4 cup flour 1 small onion 4-5 garlic cloves 1 green pepper, diced 1 red pepper, diced 1 can Italian style tomatoes 1 tbsp beef bouillon 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce 1 tbsp steak seasoning 1 tbsp steak sauce Directions Put steak in a gallon-sized freezer bag.

In a med bowl mix together the rest of the ingredients, add to bag. Zip close and place in freezer. When ready to use thaw in fridge overnight. Cook on low 8 hours.

Serve over noodles or rice.

Pineapple chicken burritos

Ingredients 3 fresh or frozen chicken breasts 1/2 can crushed pineapple, drained 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained 1 cup medium salsa 5-6 burrito sized flour tortillas 1 can green enchilada sauce 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese 1 cup cooked rice Directions Place the chicken, pineapple, beans and salsa in a freezer bag and place in freezer. When ready to use thaw in fridge for 24 hours. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours.

Remove the chicken and shred. Mix the chicken back into the crock pot with the rest of the ingredients. Mix in the cooked rice. Fill tortillas and place in in a nine-by13-inch pan. Pour green enchilada sauce over the burritos. Top with one cup of the shredded cheese and place under the broiler on the middle rack until the cheese is nice and melted. About five minutes.

what’s inside

2 7 15

A letter to friends: What’s your type? Opperation awarness The magic of gratitude: Happier kids! Happier parents!

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with kids in tow

learning curve 3 We’re in this together: 17 18

from the editor 6

Valentine’s Day – such pressure

calendar 8 What’s happening around you this winter season

your chance to win 5 Cutest Baby Madness See below

A Valentine’s Q & A

frame it

A mother’s perspec tive: Bee mine

11 Papercrafting for

Establishing a positive homework environment

meals in minutes 4 Fast and easy

meals from the freezer

Valentine’s Day

feature story 12

Surviving with support & friendship

test your knowledge 14 Valentine’s Day quiz

Cutest Baby Madness!

After last year’s inaugural “Cutest Baby Contest,” we knew we would have to bring it back in 2014, but with even more excitement! Send your baby (or babies) photo, name and age (in months), along with your name (parent or guardian), email, town of residence and phone number to fjadran@eaglenewsonline.com

by Friday, Feb. 7. We will feature a “Baby Bracket” in our March edition to reveal the finalists and then the winner will be revealed on the cover of our April Edition! Babies up to 18 months old are eligible. They’re all so cute, so do your best and make this the cutest contest ever! Go baby, go!

May 2013

healthy family

contents

Meet the

healthy fam

2013

ily

Sun safety tip s families & kid for s

Syracuse Par ent Cutest Baby Contest Winner

El ijah!

family FYI

Pregnancy: Wh should I expe at ct?

BABY EDITION 2013

dollars & sens

e

How to avoid a

FEBRUARY 2014 SYRACUSE PARENT

pricey prom

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from the editor

Valentine’s Day – such pressure Ah, St. Valentine’s Day, that one special day can inspire hope, anxiety, even dread.

Will I get one? Should I give one? What if I give one and don’t get one in return?

I remember, as a grade school student, being confident I would get valentines that day. After all, we spent the day before, as a class, making “desk mailboxes” out of paper bags and construction paper. Those were the days - when cards were bought in 24-, 32- even 48-packs, one for each school pal.

I remember, at that age, watching “Be My Valentine, Charlie Brown,” where, after cards are passed out at school, Charlie Brown only got a very small candy heart reading “Forget it Kid.” Linus buys his teacher a huge box of chocolates, but is upset when she leaves with her boyfriend. Sally then finds the box, thinks it is for her and is dismayed to find it is not.

Nice, kid-friendly fare, right? Not exactly confidence-building.

Now that my children are getting older the question will be whether or not they bring valentines to school. Cassidy, now in sixth grade, probably will not; Jacob, in fifth, most likely will. It’s funny, the difference a year can make in how kids feel about being open and friendly with their peers.

I know there will come a time when they have someone special in their lives who merits recognition on Valentine’s Day but, for now, it’s nice to have them feel it’s not “cool” to single out one person as their Valentine.

Adults can be under a lot of pressure to make the day special for their significant others. Why is that? I think it’s more important to show your appreciation for your “Valentine” in little ways every day. I know that I would rather have my husband help around the house than buy me a dozen roses.

For me, the best way to celebrate Valentine’s Day is to cook a meal for my family, sit down to watch a movie with popcorn and, after the kids go to bed, share a glass of wine with my husband. It’s not what you do, it’s who you do it with. It’s not what you get, it’s what you give. It’s not the time you put in, but the time you share.

That goes for every day, not just Feb. 14. I think that’s a lesson that a grown-up Charlie Brown, Linus and Sally would have learned. It’s the lesson I hope my children learn from our example.

So, when you are scrambling to get that perfect gift for your special someone, remember that the best gift to give is time and love.

Happy Valentine’s Day! Jennifer Wing can be reached at jwing@ eaglenewsonline.com. Stay up-to-date with us on Twitter, @SRYparent, and at facebook.com/ SyracuseParentMagazine.

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SYRACUSE PARENT FEBRUARY 2014

Jennifer Wing editor

publisher

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

editor

Jennifer Wing 434-8889 ext. 340 editor@syracuseparent.net

associate editor

Farah F. Jadran 434-8889 ext. 306 calendar@syracuseparent.net

ad sales

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

business manager

Lisa Congdon

434-8889 ext. 303 lcongdon@eaglenewsonline.com

circulation manager

Lori Newcomb

434-8889 ext. 333 lnewcomb@eaglenewsonline.com

creative director

Sean Haney

434-8889 ext. 331 art@eaglenewsonline.com We want your news! Contributions can be sent to Farah Jadran, Associate 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.

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

healthy family

The magic of gratitude: Happier kids! Happier parents!

By Jackie Michel Do your kids take for granted the abundance in their lives and the great things you do for them? It is not surprising if they do. In a society where most everything we want or need is right at our fingertips it is easy to forget to be thankful. Many parents and grandparents will tell you that a simple “thank you” and manners have taken a nosedive.

Being grateful is an emotional skill that must be taught, learned and practiced. It is like learning arithmetic or kicking a soccer ball and it begins with helping kids send “thank you” notes and say “thank you.”

In the late ‘80s, Robert Emmons, a professor at UC Davis, started research on happiness which lead to his scientific study on gratitude.

In his book, “Thanks” he writes, “I soon discovered that gratitude is a deeper, more complex phenomenon that plays a critical role in human happiness. Gratitude is literally one of the few things that can measurably change peoples’ lives.” According to a 2007 study by Hofstra Professor Jeffrey Froh, children who regularly express gratitude have improved moods, better social relationships and are happier at school. An article in The Wall Street Journal (Published Dec 23, 2013), also points to the current research indicating the benefits for kids who say, “thanks.” Teaching gratitude is a key to raising happy, successful kids and a pillar of successful parenting.

day that made them happy.

9. Teach children that life isn’t always fair, and none of us ever get everything we want, but learning to accept disappointment will make them happier and more resilient.

10. Be persistent. Don’t let the resistance of either the kids or a spouse deter you. By teaching your child to be grateful and responsible, you are equipping them with the tools to create a happier, more meaningful life.

Jackie Michel, LCSWR is a psychotherapist with a focus on positive psychology. With her son, Gregory Michel, MS, an environmental educator, she has created the “Green Gratitude Kit for kids.” Designed with the intention to engage children in the thank you process, the kit include eight cards, envelopes, 48 stickers and tips for kids on why it is cool to write thank you notes. The cards are printed with soy based inks in Syracuse on 100 percent post-consumer waste recycled paper made using wind generated electricity.

The kits are available at the Village Toy Store in Fayetteville and online at greenbirthday.com.

10 Tips on raising grateful children 1. Start when kids are very little to remind them to say “thank you.” Plan time to help them with their “thank you” notes.

2. Ask them to think about what is special or meaningful about a gift they have received.

3. Point out the gesture of kindness from the person who gave them the gift. They may not understand that someone has gone out of their way to do something nice for them.

4. Model thanks! For example, make a point of saying “thank you” to people who serve you in a restaurant so your children see that.

5. Express your gratitude for what the child does: for their hard work at school, their thoughtfulness, their helpfulness.

6. Teach children to be thankful for nonmaterial things such as health, togetherness and nature.

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7. Cultivate a sense of wonder and delight. Take time to look together with kids at the world around you, from the tiniest bug to a glorious sunset.

8. At bedtime, ask your children to tell you one thing they feel pleased about with themselves, one thing someone else did for which they are thankful, and something that happened during the FEBRUARY 2014 SYRACUSE PARENT

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calendar

here is what’s happening around you

Sat Feb 1 TAKE YOUR CHILD TO THE LIBRARY DAY. 11 AM to 4 PM. Libraries throughout the U.S. and Canada are celebrating Take Your Child to the Library Day... Don’t miss joining in the fun. Free cocoa in the café and free bookmarks and prizes; stories on the hour. All ages.

Onondaga Free Library. 4840 W. Seneca Turnpike.

MEET THE AUTHORS: ADIRONDACK KIDS. 1 to 2 PM. As part of National Take Your Child to the Library Day, NOPL @ Brewerton welcomes the family behind the award-winning “Adirondack Kids” books! Gary and Carol VanRiper (with the possible addition of Justin) will give a talk about the series and answer questions. Northern Onondaga Public Library @ Brewerton. 5437 Library Road. 676-7484. nopl.org.

THE ELF ON THE SHELF: A BIRTHDAY TRADITION. 11 AM. Join us for a super special shindig featuring the story The Elf on the Shelf: A Birthday Tradition, activities and more. 3454 Erie Blvd East, DeWitt.

IN HONOR OF TAKE YOUR CHILD TO THE LIBRARY DAY. 3 PM. The Spoon Man, aka Jim Cruise a family musical interactive comedian who can make spoons pop and boom will perform . Made possible by a donation from Judith LaManna Rivette. 615 Woods Road., Solvay Public Library 468-2441

“TEENY YOGINI” CLASS. 10 to 10:45 AM. Little ones with their parent/grandparent or other special adult. Ages: 2 and a half to 6 years old. $15 per parent and child; $20 per family. Willow Health & Wellness Center, 3040 Belgium Road (Route 31), Baldwinsville.

To register, contact Julie Daniel of Yoga for Kids of CNY. 622-3423. yogaforkidsofcny.com.

SPCA MEET & GREET. 12 to 1 PM. Looking for a new, furry addition to the family? Come to NOPL @ North Syracuse to chat with a CNY SPCA representative. Learn about adoption or volunteering opportunities, and meet an SPCA dog up for adoption! This event caps off our SPCA Donation Drive, ongoing throughout January. Northern Onondaga Public Library @ North Syracuse. 100 Trolley Barn Lane.

458-6184. nopl.org.

PRESCHOOL INFORMATION FAIR. 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM. Local preschools from the east side of Syracuse will be on hand to provide information to families about their programs. Also, we will have Smartplay in the Community room for the kids to play, and a book sale with great children’s books. 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville.

OFF-THE-FLOOR YOGA. 10 AM. Feb. 1 and 8. Instructor Kim Setla will lead you in yoga in a chair or standing, but never lying down.

Registration is required; 635-5631 or bville.lib.ny.us.

Tue Feb 4 MOTHER GOOSE TIME. 11 AM. Toys, puzzles, blocks, nursery rhyme and felt board activities. This gives the young ones a chance to get used to the library and other children as well as an opportunity for parents and caregivers to chat as their children play and interact. Free.

For children, ages 2 & under. Registration preferred. Onondaga Free Library. oflibrary.org.

FABULOUS 4’S AND 5’S STORYTIME. Tuesdays at 10:30 AM. Help your preschooler get ready to read as we enjoy stories together and build important early literacy skills. 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville.

637-6374. fflib.org.

Wed Feb 5 TODDLER STORYTIMES. Wednesdays and Thursdays 10:15 AM. Songs, finger plays and stories. 20 to 25 minutes. Free. For children, ages 2 to 3. Registration preferred. Onondaga Free Library. oflibrary.org.

TERRIFIC 2’S AND 3’S STORYTIME. Wednesdays at 10:30 AM. Nurture a love of books with your 2 or 3 year old. We will learn letters, sounds and words as we share stories, songs and rhymes. 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville.

STORYTIME. 10 to 10:30 AM on Wednesdays. Ages: Birth to 3.

Stories, songs, and interactive fun, plus finger plays to delight your infants and toddlers. 100 Trolley Barn Lane. 458-6184. nopl.org.

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.

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

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

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SYRACUSE PARENT FEBRUARY 2014

PRESCHOOL STORYTIMES. 11 AM. Wednesdays & Thursdays.

Stories, finger plays, songs and a craft. 35 to 45 minutes. Free. For children, ages 3 to 5. Registration preferred. oflibrary.org.

CREATION CLUB JUNIOR. 4 to 5:30 PM. Do you want to learn to use the green screen and make movies? Create and edit videos, podcasts, images, make 3D models and more using the software and hardware available at the FFL! Creation Club Junior develops literacy (and digital literacy) skills and ignites a passion for reading by offering students in grades 3-5 the opportunity and training needed to create at the FFL. Registration required. 637-6374. fflib.org.

Thu Feb 6 STEAMPUNK YOUR VICTORIAN VALENTINES. 1 to 3 PM. Create Victorian Valentines combined with the cogs and gears of Steampunk sensibility to create pop-up and layered Steampunk-ed Victorian Valentines. Ages 6 to 10. Cazenovia Public Library, 100 Albany St., Cazenovia. 655-9322. cazenoviapubliclibrary.org.

CUDDLETIME. Thursdays at 9:30 AM. Enjoy rhymes, songs, stories and more with your baby at this language-building program. For babies not yet walking. 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. 637-6374. fflib.org.

STORYTIME. 10 to 10:45 AM on Wednesdays. Ages: 4 to 6. Stories, songs and crafts. 100 Trolley Barn Lane. 458-6184. nopl.org.

MAKER CLUB: ANGRY BIRDS. 3:30 to 5 PM. Ages 7 and up.

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Make plush or pom pom Angry Birds toys, paper Birds, or Perler Bead Birds and Pigs. Registration is REQUIRED to ensure enough supplies.

699-2032 or sign up at nopl.org! Northern Onondaga Public Library @ Cicero. 8686 Knowledge Lane.

STORYTIME WITH MISS COLLEEN. Every Thursday at 10 AM.

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Barnes & Noble story times are always fun, filled with great books, silly songs and cool activities. Great for toddlers and preschoolers. Barnes & Noble. 3454 Erie Blvd East, DeWitt.

Sat Feb 8 BOOK & BAKE SALE. 10 AM to 4 PM. The Friends of the library will be selling baked goods, used DVDs, CDs, audiobooks, books, and puzzles. There is a $2 bag sale (bags provided) from 1:30 to 4 PM. NOPL @ Cicero Library, 8686 Knowledge Lane, Cicero. 699-2032. nopl.org.

HANDS-ON-LEARNING EVENT: THE POWER OF CREATIVITY. 1 PM. Join us for a hands-on-learning event that will provide children ages 4 and up with a chance to exercise the sharing, creativity, and storytelling skills. Please RSVP at customer services or call the store at 449-2948 as space is limited. Barnes & Noble. 3454 Erie Blvd East, DeWitt.

A TASTE OF CHOCOLATE.1 to 4 PM. Sample-sized treats to taste.

Dessert Table with full-sized goodies for sale. Fill a box with sweets to take home for your sweetheart. Proceeds will benefit LaFayette Outreach and the church. Columbian Presbyterian Church, corner routes 11 & 20, LaFayette. 677-3293.

BOOK & TAPE GIVE-AWAY. 10 AM to 4 PM Feb. 8 and 1 to 5 PM Sunday, Feb. 9. Come browse our selection of free books for all ages as well as VHS tapes. Stock up for winter. bville.lib.ny.us.

SPLAT THE CAT VISITS FOR A VALENTINE’S DAY STORYTIME. 11 AM. Bring your love bugs to our store for a special Valentine’s Day Storytime featuring Love Monster by Rachel Bright and Funny Valentine (Splat the Cat Series) by Rob Scotton and a special guest appearance

by Splat the Cat! Children 4 and up. Barnes & Noble. 3454 Erie Blvd East, DeWitt.

FEBRUARY 2014 SYRACUSE PARENT

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calendar

here is what’s happening around you

IMAX SPECIAL: “DOLPHINS”. Saturdays 5 PM. In this IMAX movie, follow a marine biologist and her two colleagues as they take a close look at dolphins in their native habitat and gain a new perspective on the lives of these complex marine creatures and their remarkable intelligence. Members: $6.50 for adults, $5.50 for children 2 to 17 and seniors age 65 and up. Non-members: $10 for adults, $8 for children 2 to 11 or seniors age 65 and up. 425-9068. The MOST, 500 S. Franklin St., Syracuse.

Sun Feb 9 CHOCOLATE PARTY. 2 to 4 PM. Take part in our Winterfest tradition of stories and cocoa as we read “The Mitten” together and enjoy crafts while sipping hot cocoa. For Children and Their Families.

Cazenovia Public Library, 100 Albany St., Cazenovia. 655-9322; cazenoviapubliclibrary.org.

WORLD MARRIAGE DAY CELEBRATION. 2:30 PM. The 28th Annual World Marriage Day will be celebrated at The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, Syracuse. The Most Reverend Robert J. Cunningham will celebrate the Mass and renew the marriage vows of all couples in attendance. He will honor those couples celebrating silver anniversaries, golden anniversaries and beyond 50 years in 2014.

Contact your parish office to register. All couples are encouraged to attend. Sponsored by Family Life Education (A Hope Appeal Agency). familylifeeducationsyracuse.org.

VALENTINE FAMILY YOGA CLASS. 3:30 to 5 PM. Dharma Yoga Syracuse (formerly CNY Yoga) 101 First St., Liverpool. Enjoy being together as a family for this special yoga class which will include storytelling, crafts and special snacks. Cost: $10 per person; $25 per family.

To register, contact Julie Daniel of Yoga for Kids of CNY. 622-3423. yogaforkidsofcny.com.

Mon Feb 10 MONDAYS CLUB. 10 AM at 6 PM. Age: Third- to sixth-graders.

The fun never ends with the 2ND Mondays Club. This month the club will be playing Presidential BINGO while they have pizza and other refreshments. Baldwinsville Public Library, 33 E. Genesee St., Baldwinsville.

Thu Feb 13 MYSTERY READER’S CLUB. 10 AM. February’s mystery for discussion is Dust to Dust by Tami Hoag. You can ask for the Mystery Book Club’s books at the Circulation Desk during the 4 weeks before our meeting. bville.lib.ny.us.

Fri Feb 14 FRIDAY FRENCH: CONVERSATION AND BEYOND! 2 to 3:30 PM. Join us for this special French themed Valentine’s Day filled with treats, poetry, songs and more. fflib.org. 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville.

Sat Feb 15 TACNY JUNIOR CAFÉ SCIENTIFIQUE. 9:30 to 11 AM. Dr. John D. Nicholson, clinical professor of surgery at SUNY Upstate Medical University and a partner at Colon Rectal Associates of Central New York, will trace the history of colon and rectal surgery from procedures performed on Louis XIV of France to the present. The free presentation, which is sponsored by the Technology Alliance of Central New York, is

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SYRACUSE PARENT FEBRUARY 2014

aimed at middle school students with the goal of interesting them in a STEM career. A continental breakfast is provided. Underage attendees must be accompanied by an adult, and both are invited to tour the MOST exhibits for free after the event. The MOST, 500 S. Franklin St., Syracuse. RSVP to jrcafe@tacny.org by Feb. 13 with the number of people attending.

Mon Feb 17 BLACK HISTORY MONTH STORYTIME. 11 AM. Come for a special storytime in celebration of Black History Month featuring Henry’s Freedom Box, a stirring, dramatic story of a slave who mails himself to freedom by Jane Addams Peace Award-winning author Ellen Levine and Coretta Scott King Award-winning artist Kadir Nelson. Barnes & Noble.

3454 Erie Blvd East, DeWitt.

Tue Feb 18 KIDS BOOK SWAP AND ICE CREAM SOCIAL. 2 to 3 PM. Sponsored by the Friends of the Solvay Public Library. Bring a gently used or new book to swap for another. There will also be a mini-book sale of children’s books. Free and open to kids ages 5 to 17. Followed at 3:15 PM. by the Magic of Professional Magician and Wizard Ron Cain. Made possible by a donation from Judith LaManna Rivette. 615 Woods Road., Solvay Public Library 468-2441

VACATION CRAFTS. 2 PM Feb. 18 and Feb. 21. Beat the winter blues making a cool craft at the library. The craft will something ooeygooey like candy or soap-making. Watch the library calendar online for details. bville.lib.ny.us.

FAMILY FUN & GAME NIGHT. 6:30 to 7:30 PM. Play games and make friends at the library. Enjoy a selection of games or bring a favorite to share. Sign up on our event calendar at www.nopl.org.

Northern Onondaga Public Library @ North Syracuse. 100 Trolley Barn Lane. 458-6184.

THE WIZARD OF OZ PARTY. 6:30 PM. Celebrate the 75th anniversary of the classic movie The Wizard of Oz. Play games, have some refreshments and come in costume if you’d like. Free. For children, ages 3 & up. Registration required. Onondaga Free Library. 4840 W. Seneca Turnpike.

BUILD A SNOWMAN. 1 to 2:30 PM. If the weather is cold and snowy come to the FFL in your snowpants and winter gear to build snowmen outside of the library! If we don’t have snow, come anyway and build cardboard snowmen in the Fab Lab. Please register. fflib.org.

Wed Feb 19 WINTER BREAK SAMPLER. 1:30 to 3:30 PM. Feb. 19, 20 & 21. Come unplug and play during Winter Break. There will be time to dance, create and explore as we focus on different books and activities each day. Ages 5 to 10. Cazenovia Public Library, 100 Albany St, Cazenovia. 655-9322; cazenoviapubliclibrary.org.

CREATION CLUB JUNIOR. 4 to 5:30 PM. Do you want to learn to use the green screen and make movies? Create and edit videos, podcasts, images, make 3D models and more using the software and hardware available at the FFL! Creation Club Junior develops literacy (and digital literacy) skills and ignites a passion for reading by offering students in grades 3-5 the opportunity and training needed to create at the FFL. Please register. fflib.org.

Continued on page 16

fun and low budget crafting projects for parents & kids

it

frame

Papercrafting for Valentine's Day

ous projects can be created to make heart sculptures, homemade paper gift boxes, cupids, cards, and three-dimensional flowers ideal for Valentine's Day. Web sites like pepakuracorner.blogspot.com, www.papercraftsquare.com or kelleighratzlaff.com are great resources for prospective papercrafters.

Craft stores such as Michaels, A.C. Moore and Hobby Lobby also may offer tutorials on how to design and build various papercrafts. Visit a local store and inquire about classes. Such stores also may have books on papercrafting that often come with templates to help beginners get started. Books worth investigating include "Paper + Craft: 25 Charming Gifts, Accents, and Accessories to Make from Paper," by Minhee and Truman Cho; "Paper Made!: 101 Exceptional Projects to Make Out of Everyday Paper," by Kayte Terry; and "Decorating with Papercraft: 25 Fresh and Eco-Friendly Projects for the Home," by Clare Youngs.

Papercrafting allows men, women and children to put personal touches on crafty Valentine's Day projects.

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Millions of cards are exchanged each Valentine's Day, which, according to the Greeting Card Association, is the second most popular holiday to exchange cards, trailing only Christmas.

While thousands of greeting cards perfectly express personal sentiments, many individuals still prefer to craft their own personalized valentines. Papercrafting creates something unique and worthy of saving. An art form in which paper is used to create three-dimensional objects, such as models or sculptures, papercrafting's most widely known manifestation is origami, in which paper is folded and manipulated into various forms. Papercraft also can be used to make pop-up cards and other elaborate creations.

Papercrafting can be enjoyable and challenging and generally requires a good eye for design. But computer software programs and templates exist to make papercrafting a more viable option for those without a flare for design.

One of the advantages to papercrafting is it tends to be inexpensive. All a person needs is paper, a creative idea, a cutting tool, and an adhesive. Vari-

FEBRUARY 2014 SYRACUSE PARENT

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feature story

Surviving with suppor East Syracuse teachers raise awareness for brain aneurysms

By Farah F. Jadran Getting a headache can be painful and cause us much discomfort depending on the severity. However, when we’re getting them around the time of a monthly cycle, we might assume the two are related.

This was exactly the case for Mary Cook, a second-grade teacher at East Syracuse Elementary.

Despite having the “worst headaches of her life,” experiencing difficulty speaking and blurred vision in her right eye, Cook put off seeing a doctor with these concerns.

Cook might have waited, but thankfully it wasn’t too late. “I was lucky because mine [brain aneurysm] was huge.” As Cook said, she was lucky it didn’t rupture. Cook was diagnosed by Syracuse area neurologist Dr. Nabil Aziz who informed her, after an MRI, that she in fact had a giant brain aneurysm on her right side.

She had been going about her everyday life with an aneurysm that could have ruptured at any moment, possibly leading to death.

After more testing and an angiogram, to closely look at the affected artery in her head, she

ABOVE: Brain aneurysm survivor Mary Cook, center, along side a few of her many supporters that helped make the benefit possible.

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SYRACUSE PARENT FEBRUARY 2014

was ready for a special procedure that would be performed by Upstate Medical University’s Dr. Eric Deshaies, a neurosurgeon. The artery was filled with Onyx HD, a glue-like liquid that solidifies to shut off the blood flood and act as an instant clot. The entire procedure took about seven hours.

Three years later, Cook is living proof that the procedure worked and that living with an aneurysm like hers is possible. Early on, she realized that there was only online support on a national level for people like her.

Cook’s fellow East Syracuse Elementary teacher and close friend, Mary Albanese, immediately volunteered to help with the mission.

“That’s how it started,” Albanese said. “A small group of women started fundraising and raising awareness.” Together they started the CNY Brain Aneurysm Awareness Campaign.

Now, as the two and the campaign’s committee works on the third annual fundraiser, they’re continuing their mission in raising awareness for a lesser thought of ailment. “You have to listen to your body,” Cook said. “You can’t make any excuses.”

While Cook was lucky even

ABOVE LEFT, Dr. Eric Deshaies and on the right, Dr. David Paladino.

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while putting off finding out more about her headaches, she does not want this to happen to someone else. The CNY Brain Aneurysm Awareness Campaign offers a monthly support group for people with aneurysms and their families. Also, the campaign raises funds to help families and patients that need financial support for meals or parking or anything that adds up when someone is in the hospital or ill at home.

This year’s Melt Away The Mid-Winter Blues fundraiser will take place from 6 to 10 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 7, at Barbagallo’s Restaurant in East Syracuse. The event features dinner, a wine tasting, entertainment, door prizes and a bottle of wine to take home for every attendee.

Cook wants people to be aware of the symptoms: localized headaches, dilated pupils, blurred or double vision, pain above or behind the eye, weakness or numbness, or difficulty speaking. “Don’t wait,� Cook said. “If you have any pain like this, you need to advocate for yourself and get it checked out.�

Cook says that having an MRI is such a non-invasive procedure that “it can’t hurtâ€? and thus, no one should be afraid to have one, if it means it can save your life‌or a loved one’s life.

For more information about the support groups or to buy a ticket to the Feb. 7 fundraiser, visit cnybrain.org. Pre-sale tickets are $40 and $45 at the door.

Syracuse Woman Magazine Editor Farah F. Jadran will be the guest emcee for the evening.

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FEBRUARY 2014 SYRACUSE PARENT

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Valentine's Day Quiz Test your knowledge of all things related to the day of love.

1. How many martyred saints are believed to be named St. Valentine? a. 12 b. 14

c. 7 d. 16

2. Ancient Egyptians used to mummify people with this organ intact

because they believed it was the only part of the body necessary for the trip through eternity. a. heart c. lung b. liver d. eye

3. This February holiday was originally observed on February 14th. a. Lincoln's birthday b. Washington's birthday

c. Mardi Gras d. Groundhog Day

4. Which confectionary company produced the first box of chocolates for Valentine's Day in the late 1800s? a. Hershey c. Cadbury b. Nestle d. Mars

5. Approximately 110 million of these will be sold and delivered within the three days surrounding Valentine's Day. a. chocolates c. cards b. roses d. emails

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6. Who receives the most Valentine's Day cards?

for

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7. This Italian city was where Romeo and Juliet lived in Shakespeare's tale. a. Rome b. Naples

c. Tuscany d. Verona

8. In what year did Hallmark launch its first Valentine's Day product? a. 1913 b. 1915

c. 1917 d. 1919

9. Which Roman goddess was known as the goddess of love?

Jump!

Laugh!

Learn!

Grow!

a. Vesta b. Juno

c. Venus d. Diana

10. Which monument was given as the ultimate gift of love? a. Egyptian pyramids b. Taj Mahal

c. Eiffel Tower d. Palace of Versailles

11. Which of the following birds DONOT mate for life? a. Dove b. Bald Eagle

c. Cardinal d. California Condor

12. What letter has become the symbol for a "kiss"? a. X b. O

c. K d. Y

13. This confection is made from sugar or honey and almond meal. a. fondant b. chocolate

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c. mothers d. children

c. caramel d. marzipan

14. Some people believe Valentine's Day was created to supercede this Roman pagan holiday. a. Sementivae b. Floralia

c. Lupercalia d. Vestalia TF142928

Answers:1. b 2. a 3. d 4. c 5. b 6. a 7. d 8. a 9. c 10. b 11. c 12. a. 13. d 14. c

Martial Arts

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

healthy family

Celebrate Valentine's Day with kids in tow Romantic nights out on the town are how many couples celebrate Valentine's Day. Restaurants and resorts book quickly come Valentine's Day, while movie theaters tend to be packed as well. Even babysitters cash in come February 14, as parents look to enjoy a romantic night away from the kids.

Parents who do not secure a babysitter well in advance of the holiday will have to spend Valentine's Day with kids in tow. Many parents actually prefer to spend Valentine's Day with their children, and there are plenty of family-friendly Valentine's Day activities to keep everyone occupied.

Dessert spree

ent shapes, including hearts and bows.

Fancy dinner at home

Who says you have to venture out for fine dining? Plan an intimate dinner right in your own dining room. Have the entire family dress up in semi-formal clothing and enjoy a candlelit meal on fine china. The meal need not be fancy, as long as everyone enjoys what they are eating. Plan for dessert afterward.

Movie night

Rather than facing the crowds at area theaters, you can visit your nearest movie quick-serve kiosk or purchase a movie through your cable service provider. Find family-friendly films with love and togetherness as the center theme. Then whip up a large bowl of popcorn, snuggle under the blankets and enjoy a movie marathon.

Valentine's Day is the one day of the year to fully engage your sweet tooth. And what child doesn't enjoy sampling plenty of sweet treats? Create a sundae station after dinner, complete with different flavors of ice cream and various toppings. Include mix-ins, like brownie bits or small chunks of pound cake. Everyone can create their own sundae, topped off with whipped cream and a cherry.

This is also a time to experiment with different dessert recipes. Encourage kids to come into the kitchen and dabble in pastry arts. Bake and decorate heart-shaped cakes and cookies. Whip up healthy, pink-tinged strawberry-banana smoothies. Create edible candy-and-chocolate bouquets to use as the centerpiece on a dining table. The opportunities for fun with sweets are endless.

Memory box

Get crafty

Get planting

Families also can use this Valentine's Day as a chance to turn off their electronic devices and have fun with crafts and hobbies. While heartshaped paper crafts are the requisite for the day, that doesn't mean you need to be limited to all frilly creations. Boys can construct their own Cupid bows from twigs and some yarn. Everyone can whip up a batch of fizzing, scented bath salts.

Homemade craft dough also makes for a fun project, and the dough can be turned into all differ-

Purchase or find a wooden, plastic or metal box that will last for several years. Have all members of the family gather their favorite items or things that are sentimental to them and place them in the box. These can be ticket stubs, photographs, jewelry or other trinkets. Place them in the box and seal it. Agree not to open the box until next Valentine's Day to see how the family has grown and evolved.

Valentine's Day is frequently accompanied by bouquets of roses and other flowers. Begin a new family tradition of planting flower seeds on Feb. 14. Use small pots that can be kept indoors in a bright window for a few weeks until the arrival of spring. Then transplant outdoors and continue to enjoy full-grown flowering plants for months to come.

Plan a family excursion

Engage in an activity that everyone enjoys together. Spend a day sledding down a wintry slope or skating at a nearby ice rink. Hike through a town park and witness the landscape during a cold-weather season. Visit a zoo, museum or aquarium and take in all the sights and sounds.

Although Valentine's Day is billed as a day for couples, the entire family can still enjoy the day together.

FEBRUARY 2014 SYRACUSE PARENT

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calendar

here is what’s happening around you

Thu Feb 20 MUSIC WITH DONNA B (DONNA BUTTERFIELD OF MILK AND COOKIES) 11:30 AM. Join in the fun with a unique interactive musical storytime. Made possible by a donation from Judith LaManna Rivette. 615 Woods Road., Solvay Public Library 468-2441.

TWEEN DUCT TAPE PROGRAM. 2 to 3 PM. Ages 9 to12. You can make anything with duct tape! The material with 101 uses now comes in as many colors and patterns. Make a wallet, iPod case, key wristlet, pencil case and more from provided instructions, or create from your imagination! Duct tape in a variety of colors is provided.

Registration is REQUIRED to ensure enough supplies; sign up at nopl. org or call 458-6184. Northern Onondaga Public Library @ North Syracuse. 100 Trolley Barn Lane.

MAGIC & DRAWING WITH MIKE CARTER. 7 PM. Join us in welcoming back Mike Carter to the library for some Wizard of Oz fun.

He will be doing fun magic and art all having to do with The Wizard of Oz. Free. All ages. Registration preferred. Onondaga Free Library. oflibrary.org.

VACATION SPECIAL – MUSIC WITH DONNA. 2 PM. Age:

“MARRIAGE MEANS LISTENING BEYOND THE WORDS: The Miracle Skill.” 7 to 9 PM. Sponsored by THE THIRD OPTION, a program to build better marriages and the Family Life Education Office.

Holy Cross Church, 4112 E. Genesee St., DeWitt. Walk-ins welcome.

For more information call 472-6728. A Hope Appeal program.

Mon Feb 24 ADULTS — AARP TAX PREPARATION ASSISTANCE. 9 AM to 4 PM. Registration required. 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Fflib.org.

Tue Feb 25 SOCIETY OF CHILDREN’S BOOK WRITERS AND ILLUSTRATORS GROUP. 7 PM. Welcome, Central New York children’s writers and illustrators! Come for a discussion at our children’s stage. A great way to get information and connect with local authors and illustrators. Barnes & Noble. 3454 Erie Blvd East, DeWitt.

Thu Feb 27 MAKER CLUB: PERLER BEADS. 3:30 to 5 PM. Ages 7 and up. Learn new techniques for making Perler Bead objects, or design your own project. For ages 7 and up. Registration is REQUIRED to ensure enough supplies. 699-2032 or sign up at nopl.org. Northern Onondaga Public Library @ Cicero. 8686 Knowledge Lane.

37750

Preschool and older. Enjoy musical storytelling and face painting with Donna Butterfield. Singing and dancing, fun for all ages, then face painting for those who wish to stay. bville.lib.ny.us.

Sun Feb 23

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learning curve

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e

e tiv Am c e other’s persp I’ve had a love-hate relationship with Valentine’s Day for as long as I can remember.

The “love” happened in grade school when everyone brought in a Valentine for everyone else leaving a class full of wam and fuzzy feelings.

These feelings may or may not have been fueled by slightly illiterate candy hearts proclaiming “U R THE 1.”

The “hate” part arrived during the teen years of “he loves me, he loves me not” and stayed through the angsty 20s of “this is the worst holiday ever!” Eventually I settled down, got married and Valentine’s Day didn’t hold the same emotional sway it did in years past. I had my Valentine. He remembered to bring home chocolate. All was well.

When my son entered school I was happy to help him pick out his valentines for the class party. The holiday had run full circle back to the days of simplicity and cards and candies written in a textmessage factory.

That first year, I sent him to

school with the classic storebought valentines. What came home was more than I expected. No one told me that valentines now had little gifts attached. An eraser, a lollipop, a pencil.

Did it make me a bad parent for not keeping up on the latest in Valentine’s Day trends? My son didn’t seem bothered, so I let it go.

After all, Valentine’s Day is a relatively stress-free holiday, right?

As the years went on, we did better. There were Star Wars cards that included teeny-tiny glow stick light sabers for teeny-tiny Jedi.

There was Captain America with a little shield-shaped notepad. I felt good. Parenting mini-hurdle overcome.

Then Pinterest arrived and so did the handcrafted valentines.

Why did Pinterest have to ruin a perfectly good underachiever’s holiday? I just survived the pressures of Christmas and chronicles of elves that didn’t stay on shelves, I wasn’t ready for artisan valentines.

After looking at the pages of pinned valentines, I faced the reality. I am not Crafty Mom. I’m barely Make Lunches Mom some days. We will be heading to the store soon to pick out the latest in storebought valentines. I’m OK with that. More importantly, so is my kid because I’m pretty sure he’d rather have a box of store-bought cards than a mother going bonkers trying to make 25 pipecleaner bees proclaiming “bee mine.”

2/28/14

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Bee mine

FEBRUARY 2014 SYRACUSE PARENT

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learning curve

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

Establishing a positive h

Though it might not be something students look forward to, homework is an essential element of the learning process. Homework allows kids to apply the lessons they learned in the classroom while giving educators a chance to determine if students are grasping the concepts discussed in class or if certain lessons need to be revisited.

tronics store. If kids have televisions, video game consoles and stereos in their bedrooms, then that's likely not the best environment for them to do their homework. Kids can too easily grow distracted, so find a quiet area where kids can focus on their studies without being tempted by television, video games or other distractions not conducive to studying.

Students often seek their parents' help when doing their homework, but parents can start helping even before their children bring any assignments home. Creating a homework environment where kids can concentrate and put forth their best effort is a great way to help them throughout the school year. The following are a few tips for parents who want to ensure that home is as conducive a place as possible for students to do their best on homework assignments.

Designate a time each day when kids do their homework. Let other members of the household know that this is a quiet time in the house so kids aren't distracted. Once kids get comfortable in this routine they likely won't need much prodding to do their homework, and

Find a quiet space with little or no distractions. A quiet place in the home where kids can concentrate is essential when kids are doing homework. While a youngster's bedroom might have sufficed years ago, today's children tend to have bedrooms that mimic the showroom floor of an elec-

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SYRACUSE PARENT FEBRUARY 2014

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

learning curve

homework environment this designated quiet time in the household can be a relaxing time for other members of the household as well.

Have healthy snacks available. Few people do their best work on an empty stomach, so if kids will be doing their homework immediately after school, make sure you have some healthy snacks on hand. Elementary and high school students tend to eat lunch earlier than adults, so they're liable to be hungry when they arrive

home from school in the mid- to late-afternoon. Have plenty of fresh fruit on hand so kids can satisfy their hunger. Less healthy snacks might satisfy youngster's hunger pangs, but such snacks may also make kids drowsy, negatively affecting their ability to concentrate and indirectly hindering their schoolwork as a result.

Let kids know their work will be checked nightly. Parents who want to create an environment where their children approach homework seriously should let their kids know their work will be checked each night, and they will need to redo any assignments that were not completed correctly.

This prevents kids from rushing through assignments without giving their best efforts.

Few youngsters look forward to homework. While parents might not be able to change their kids' attitudes toward homework, they can change their home to make it as positive an environment for kids to pursue their studies as possible.

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