Family Times February 2014

The Parenting Guide of Central New York www.familytimes.biz | February 2014

Girl Time

Drawing henna tattoos gives moms and daughters a chance to connect

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contents

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February 2014

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Editor’s Note

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Family Matters

Time 12 Girl A henna tattoo party gives

Show your children the elements of empathy.

RE CAPTU

a

MOMENT Teresa, age 4, stands near a horse-drawn sleigh at Highland Forest in this photo by her mother, Lori Olin. To submit a photo for our Capture a Moment feature, visit www. familytimes.biz and click on the “Submissions” tab.

Kids These Days

Mothers deserve to give themselves a little love, too.

moms, daughters and friends a fun way to bond.

21 16

Atypical Family

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Family Faces

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The Recipe Doctor

The Special Olympics Winter Games offer a chance to connect with a different sort of athlete.

Rob Zettler coaches the Syracuse Crunch AHL team.

Discerning palates can get their dose of chocolate in a (spicy!) flourless cake.

27 Family Fun Calendar Events Advertiser Index Party ................................. 10-11 Learn ................................ 18-20 Practice .................................. 23 Paws ...................................... 26 Backpack Directory............... 35 Family Times February 2014

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family times

Editor’s Note

The Parenting

Guide of Central New York

FEBRUARY 2014

ISSUE NO. 142

PUBLISHER/OWNER Bill Brod

Finding Fun

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EDITOR IN CHIEF Reid Sullivan editorial@familytimes.biz VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Michelle Bowers (Ext. 114)

hat do you do when winter is beginning to get you down? How about a henna party?

Yes, get your daughters, aunts, mom or girlfriends together to draw henna tattoos! The event doesn’t have to be fancy.

Writer Laura Livingston Snyder explains you just need to invite your people and provide refreshments and henna kits. (The tattoos come off in a few weeks.) We did it ourselves to get our models ready for their cover shoot; graphic designer Natalie Hollands offers some tips in the photo captions on pages 12 to 14. We had a blast, and we think you will, too!

Do you celebrate Valentine’s Day? Once you get away from rigid expectations for how you “should” mark Feb. 14, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the holiday, beyond cards or flowers. For example, chocolate: Chris Xaver reminds us of the many (totally legit!) benefits of this treat and proposes you set some time aside to bake a flourless chocolate cake (page 24). Or mothers who have a tendency to put themselves last can instead consider how they’re No. 1 (page 8).

Perhaps you want to teach your children to consider others’ feelings; Cary and Tonja Rector offer a road map to empathy on page 60.

Or how about connecting with someone different? Deborah Cavanagh notes that the Special Olympics Winter Games this month offer a great opportunity to meet and cheer for athletes with disabilities (page 16).

Finally, Family Times’ February calendar is full of activities, especially during the school break, when local libraries and other institutions pull out all the stops for students on vacation.

MANAGING EDITOR Bill DeLapp PHOTOGRAPHER Michael Davis OFFICE COORDINATOR/CIRCULATION MANAGER Christine Scheuerman DESIGNERS Meaghan Arbital Natalie Hollands Caitlin O’Donnell DIGITAL MEDIA MANAGER Ty Marshal (ext. 144) CONTRIBUTORS Deborah Cavanagh, Tammy DiDomenico, Eileen Gilligan, Emma Kress, Linda Lowen, Cary Rector, Tonja Rector, Maggie Lamond Simone, Laura Livingston Snyder, Chris Xaver ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS Gina Fortino (ext. 115) GinaFortino@syracusenewtimes.com Lesli Mitchell (ext. 140) LMitchell@syracusenewtimes.com Joseph Monkofsky (ext. 112) Jmonkofsky@syracusenewtimes.com Kimberly Rossi (ext. 116) KRossi@syracusenewtimes.com Holly Timian (ext. 139) Htimian@syracusenewtimes.com COMPTROLLER Deana Vigliotti (ext. 118) CLASSIFIED SALES Lija Spoor (ext. 111)

Reid Sullivan Editor in chief On the cover: Kimberly Rossi, a Family Times advertising consultant, gives her daughter Ashlen a (temporary) henna tattoo. Want to try it? See the story on pages 12 to 14.

Inside: Kimberly sits with all of her daughters, Ashlen, age 10, Olivia, age 8, and Madison, age 6. (The baby, Johnny, age 3, would not sit still for a photo.) The family lives in Skaneateles.

Michael Davis photos.

Natalie Hollands design.

Subscribe to Family Times by mail and receive 12 issues for only $20.

Call (315) 472-4669 to order.

Family Times 1415 W. Genesee Street, Syracuse, NY 13204 (315) 472-4669 fax (315) 422-1721 www.familytimes.biz

PARENTING MEDIA ASSOCIATION

PARENTING PARENTING MEDIA ASSOCIATIONMEDIA ASSOCIATION

2013 Gold 2013 Silver 2013 Award Award Winner Award Winner Finalist Editorial and DesignEditorial and Design Editorial and Design Awards CompetitionAwards Competition Awards Competition

Advertising deadline for March is Feb. 13. Calendar deadline for March is Feb. 7.

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BY CARY AND TONJA RECTOR

© THOMAS PERKINS | DREAMSTIME.COM

Family Matters

Getting That Feeling Developing empathy is an extended process

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hen 3-year-old Emily sees her older brother has cut his finger, she grabs her own finger and winces. This “mirroring” effect, where we experience “secondhand” pain, is something we have all felt. Research is demonstrating there is a neurological link between our own experience of pain and our perception of pain in others.

The parts of the brain active in personal experiences of pain are also active when observing pain in others. This ability also appears to be present in other animals.

Brain scans and neurological research might make one wonder if empathy is an 6

automatic process rather than something that is learned.

Human empathy, however, requires a variety of skills and abilities shaped by experience and influenced by many factors.

In short, empathy is something we are neurologically primed for, but it is greatly influenced by our experiences. Researchers say children require teaching and guidance in order to fully develop empathy skills.

Empathy is essential for acts of compassion and kindness toward others.

Parents have the opportunity to teach children the skills and attributes needed to

become caring, considerate adults.

Human empathy depends on the ability to share the emotions of others, to feel what other people feel and the ability to understand the perspective of someone else.

This is a developmental process. In order to share in feelings, the empathetic person needs several skill sets.

• The ability to distinguish one’s own feelings from the feelings of others. This requires a sense of self-awareness. Toddlers are working on this developmental skill.

They will sometimes mimic the emotions of those around them.

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• Being able to take another person’s perspective, understanding another’s point of view. A preschooler may struggle if the other person’s perspective is different from his or her own. Children this age are not developmentally able to see the situation from a different perspective.

This skill is better developed by the time children enter kindergarten.

• The ability to regulate one’s own emotional response. Again this is a developmental task that improves with practice and maturity. Young children can feel overwhelmed with “mirroring” of others’ emotions and have trouble managing their reactions. A child may get upset over a situation that does not directly involve him.

As he matures, he will learn to modulate his own emotional reactions.

ence identifying, labeling and managing feelings. Help them put a name to what they are experiencing. This will help kids organize and understand their emotional world. Describing how others are feeling is another example of empathy training. Children’s picture books have terrific examples of emotional facial expressions and “empathy” situations.

As children begin to name emotions, help them understand what to do with their feelings. There is a distinction between feelings and behavior. Parents can say, “It’s OK to feel sad or angry, but it’s not OK to hit. Let’s talk about other things you can do when you feel like that.”

Help your child by labeling his or her feelings. Young children lack experi-

Over time your child will internalize your comforting. This is a long, gradual process.

Look for empathy teaching opportunities throughout the day and during your child’s activities with other children. There is a lot to learn and it takes many years for a child to develop empathy skills. If you can demonstrate empathy, you will be your child’s best teacher. o Cary and Tonja Rector are married and live with their children in Manlius. Cary is a licensed mental health counselor and Tonja is a licensed marriage and family therapist.

Consult your own health care provider before making decisions affecting your family’s well-being. To comment on this article, write to editorial@familytimes.biz.

© THOMAS PERKINS | DREAMSTIME.COM

It takes years for a child’s empathy to mature, but as a parent you can start empathy training at an early age.

Model empathy. When you comfort your toddler after a fall, you are modeling empathic behavior. This modeling is an important part of teaching children empathy. A 2-year-old may help find another child’s lost toy, giving the parent an opportunity to say, “You are helping Hannah feel better.”

Remember: A 2-year-old will typically not be able to understand another’s perspective: For example, Grandpa may be feeling too tired to go out to build a snow fort, but Sally’s need to go out and play in the snow will, in her mind, outweigh Grandpa’s feeling like he needs a rest. This is a cognitive task a 5-year-old is just beginning to understand.

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Kids These Days

BY MAGGIE LAMOND SIMONE

This Valentine’s for You, Mom! Mothers deserve a little self-love

You take care of yourself, in addition to taking care of everyone else. As easy as it might be to let your own health take a back seat, you’ve grown to recognize that you need to be healthy. Tending to yourself first might seem pretty selfish, but it’s actually pretty necessary.

“Sometimes it seems that

we’ve put our children

before us for so long, it’s uncomfortable to let the attention turn back.

one who really needs me to love her.

So, dear valentine, here goes.

I love you because . . .

You’ve helped raise children who are kind, respectful, intelligent and insightful. Deny it all you want, but the fact of the matter is you had a hand in this.

And I can understand it, actually, as a middle-aged mother of teenagers who’s never quite felt comfortable in her own skin or confident in her abilities as a mom. Sometimes it seems that we’ve put our children before us for so long, it’s uncomfortable to let the attention turn back.

After all of these years, you’re finally learning to stand up for yourself, politely but firmly. You’ve never had difficulty standing up for your kids, but you’ve always struggled with you.

Whether you’re afraid of upsetting your kids or your spouse or the woman in the post office line who was rude to you, you’re finally learning that you are worthy of as much respect as you give others.

Unfortunately, this inability to see ourselves for the awesome people we are can get in the way of our sense of self-worth. So I’m going to take the love-fest that is Valentine’s Day and dedicate it not only to the people I love, but to someone I wish I could love, someone I really want to love—some-

Without even realizing it, by finding and doing activities that make you happy—work, hobbies, sports, music—you’ve shown your children that it’s healthy for parents to have their own interests, separately and together.

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You try to model the beliefs and behaviors you know will be healthy and positive for your kids, even when you’ve struggled with them all of your life. It’s hard to say, “Be confident,” or “Like yourself,” or “Don’t be so hard on yourself” if you haven’t mastered that ability yet. You realize that problems like depression, alcoholism, disordered eating, body image and self-esteem issues don’t go away by pretending they don’t exist. By dealing with them, you’re showing your kids that happiness is a process, that no one is “perfect,” and that working on stuff is OK. You’ve never lost your sense of compassion or sense of humor regardless of what life has thrown at you.

And because of that, your kids will never lose theirs.

At one time this might have been my valentine to my mother; it will maybe, someday, be my valentine to me. For today, it is to every woman who finds it easier to love others than to love herself. You may not be able to say these words yet, but don’t ever stop trying. Because someday, your kids are going to realize they want to fuss over you . .. and you should let them. o Maggie Lamond Simone is an award-winning writer and mother of two living in Baldwinsville. Reach her at maggiesimone@verizon.net.

© KANDI TRAXEL | DREAMSTIME.COM

A

ll of my adult life, when I’ve visited my parents, I’ve reverted to being a kid. I expect to be fussed over, for my mom to continue to mother me as she has all these years. Recently, though, it seems the dynamic has been shifting; it’s as though I finally feel like an adult with them—maybe even an adult who wants to tend to her parents, rather than the other way around. And while it feels completely natural to me, if a tad overdue, I sense that my mother doesn’t quite believe she’s worthy of the fuss.

”

Family Times February 2014

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Cover model Kimberly Rossi and her daughters, Ashlen, Olivia and Madison, volunteer for a henna demonstration.

GIRL TIME

A henna party gives mothers, daughters and friends a chance to bond

BY LAURA LIVINGSTON SNYDER

Mehndi is the art of painting designs on the body with henna. It has been practiced for thousands of years in India, parts of Africa such as Morocco, and Middle Eastern countries.

Crushing the leaves of the henna plant into powder, a paste is made that temporarily stains the top layer of skin.

In some countries it has been used medicinally for its cooling properties.

Believed to bring luck, prosperity and love, mehndi is included in many rituals and ceremonies.

It’s also a way for mothers and daughters or female friends to bond with one another. I think it’s cool. When else can you be original and daring by drawing beautiful patterns on your body and feel good about yourself?

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PREP WORK Send afternoon invitations in advance. Invite whoever would be open to body art. I have a close-knit relationship with my mom and aunts, so they’re there, along with my friends and daughters. I remind everyone of skin care before the party, such as exfoliating and wearing loose fitting clothing. It’s important for the outer layer of Family Times skin to be freshly found kits at scrubbed and free Michaels and of lotions and oils.

The Art Store/ The supplies are Commercial sold in complete Art Supply. kits everywhere.

Order online or purchase from shops such as The Art Store/ Commercial Art Supply (935 Erie Blvd. E., Syracuse; 474-1000), Michaels or AC Moore.

Some sell henna in pens and others

MICHAEL DAVIS PHOTOS

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inter is when I get creative and have my daughters or friends join me for a henna party. And it can be done any time of the year.

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If you don’t want to use henna free hand, especially the first time, make a stencil.

Print out a design you like and trace over it using a non-toxic, water-based marker.

Then apply a light film of deodorant (such as Speed Stick gel) to the skin where you’re putting the design. Place the design marker-side down and press.

When you lift the paper, the design will be on the skin, ready for the application of henna paste.

are packaged as a dry powder in a small bottle. I’ve only used the dry powder bottles because I know it will make enough henna for several people to have at least two or three generously sized designs.

Prices range from $12 to $35 depending on the accessories included. All should come with an instruction booklet, illustrations, templates and henna materials.

Some kits have colored markers specifically for skin.

It’s important to read all labels because some products should be avoided. Black henna, not necessarily the color of the mixture, is made with chemicals that can cause allergic reactions, such as p-phenylenediamine (PPD), a coal-tar hair dye. Also, henna shouldn’t be used if you’ve colored your hair within two weeks. I’ve never had a problem with what I’ve bought locally, but it’s important to research.

Mix ingredients ahead of time by adding water and eucalyptus oil to the powder.

Some directions suggest the henna age for a few hours before use. I spend the wait time making hors d’oeuvres and straightening the house.

ROLL UP YOUR SLEEVES After my guests have arrived and gotten settled with refreshments, we begin. They usually have an idea where they’d like their art. It must be where clothing won’t get in the way, such as ankles, legs, wrists and hands. Also, the area must be able to dry without being touched for a few hours.

I’m clever enough to apply henna freehand for everyone, but if a friend is artistically talented, I have her do it. My youngest daughter has some impressive artistic skills. Some transfers can also be cut out and used like a tattoo to ensure perfection. Common designs are flowers, suns, circles and filigree-like vines. The pasty solution will be wet and feel cool for a while. The applicator tip must be kept clean, but if a mistake is made it’s easy to fix with a wet washcloth. Embellish on the designs supplied, mix them together or use something else that’s inspiring. I like to use the Celtic drawings that are in my kids’ storybooks. Be original! continued on page 14

Once the henna is dry to the touch, lightly dab on the sugar solution to set the design.

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MICHAEL DAVIS PHOTOS

A heart, a feather and a paisley element were fetching motifs for beginning henna artists—and models!

continued from page 13 KEEPING YOUR TATTOOS The henna will appear brown at first, but will be an orangey color once “cured” and darker the next day. After about 15 minutes, dab the cotton ball with the citrus/sugar solution onto the design. This helps set the henna because the longer it’s on for the skin to absorb, the longer the art will last. Some directions suggest six hours. (I’ve never had it on longer than two or three.)

As henna sets, it will become flakey.

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If some of the dried henna cracks and falls off early, no big deal. Most times it won’t affect the art. While our handiwork dries, we munch and mingle. An earlier party is best, but if my get-together is in the evening the kits include directions to cover the artwork while you sleep. After it’s been on for a few hours, I rub off the remaining henna flakes with my finger.

Washing the day after is fine. I protect my henna by putting a small amount of baby

oil over the designs before showering and pat it dry.

Henna parties are easy and inexpensive to have. It’s a beautifully exotic way to chase away the winter blahs. o Laura Livingston Snyder is a writer and mother of four who lives north of Syracuse. She blogs at nestingdolll. blogspot.com. Send email to her at editorial@familytimes.biz.

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typical Family

B Y D E B O R A H C AVA N A G H

A Special Olympics Challenge

PHOTO COURTESY OF ONONDAGA COUNTY PARKS

Sports spectators can try on new thinking at the local event

Be a booster: Cheer on the athletes at one of the Special Olympics Winter Games events Feb. 21 through 23.

W

hen I was a child, people with special needs were not seen regularly in society. There were institutions, or families kept the children in their homes. This made sightings, much less interaction, rare.

I was taught staring isn’t polite. Asking questions might hurt feelings. It seemed easiest to steer clear of people with special needs if possible. Pretend I did not see.

I remember one interaction from my eighth-grade year in Fishkill. That day I could not figure out where my lunch had gone. I wandered the hallway searching for the brown paper bag with the sandwich, cookies and apple.

I made my way down to the cafeteria of my new school and plopped into a seat 16

with the group of girls I had become friendly with since moving.

Picking at my uniform, I pretended to be interested in their conversation while stealing glances at their sandwiches. An abrupt silence made me look up from the errant thread in my skirt, and I noticed everyone staring over my shoulder.

I followed their eyes to a student from another class standing there. I thought of him as The Boy With Something Wrong.

He had trouble speaking and walked with a limp.

I finally realized he was saying, “I think I took your lunch. I’m sorry.” He handed me my bag, which had been opened.

I attempted a smile and said, “Oh, OK, thanks.”

He made his way back to his table and my friends began to chatter again. The waxed paper around my sandwich was wrinkled.

The cookies looked intact, but I wasn’t sure about the apple. When I thought no one was looking, I slid out of my seat and threw my entire lunch in the trash.

A couple years later, now a high school student, I was reluctantly sitting in the bleachers of the Rhinebeck Aerodrome, where my parents had dragged me, waiting for the air show to begin. I had better things to do: talking on the phone, listening to music in my room, reading a romance novel.

Engrossed in my bad mood, I was startled when I felt a tap on my shoulder, looked, and saw a young man with Down syndrome staring back at me.

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He smiled, “What’s wrong?”

“Huh?” I replied.

“It’s a nice sunny day, you should be happy.” He waited for me to respond.

When I said nothing, he patted me on the back and walked away down the bleachers.

I was so unnerved I went willingly to stand close to my family.

With the birth of my first child, many years later, I could no longer look the other way. My daughter Amanda has Down syndrome. She also has had surgeries to correct breathing issues, and heart defects.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ONONDAGA COUNTY PARKS

My world widened. I met families of children with Down syndrome. I was welcomed into the world of special needs.

I became one of the “them” who used to make me uncomfortable. My family became “those people” I would try to avoid.

This new circle of people—children, parents, therapists, special education professionals—awakened an awareness.

If you do not acknowledge and engage in conversation, you do not allow participation in life. When you look away, you make a person invisible.

I learned the behavior of my youth was not insensitive or rude. In fact it was pretty typical. But if I had had more expe-

rience interacting with people with special needs, I would have been more receptive.

If I had felt more comfortable, I could have been kinder.

One organization that helped to open my eyes is Special Olympics. Amanda joined when she was 8 years old. She has trained in gymnastics, golf, soccer, tennis, track and field, and swimming. These activities give her the opportunity to learn sports skills, compete and socialize.

Coaches, helpers, and businesses donate time, energy and resources. Athletes participate for fun or to compete in local, regional, state, national and sometimes World Games.

The New York State Winter Games are being held in Syracuse in February. This is a chance for typical families and individuals to learn more about people with special needs, and maybe rethink their beliefs. I say attend an event at the Winter Games!

Opening Ceremonies take place at the Pirro Convention Center on Friday, Feb. 21, 8 to 9:30 p.m. Participants from all over the state will represent their local teams. The ceremonies are free to the public and a great way to show support for Special Olympics and athletes with special needs. I dare you to not get chills when

the music starts and athletes march in waving to the crowd.

On Saturday, floor hockey starts at 8:30 a.m. at the Oncenter. Across the street at the Onondaga County War Memorial Arena, figure skating begins at 11 a.m. Take this opportunity to go up to an athlete and give a high five or tell him or her “great job.” Ask someone about his or her training. Or just sit in the stands and cheer.

If you are up for a bit of travel, head to Highland Forest in Fabius, line the trail and encourage the cross country skiers.

Or go to Greek Peak and stand at the finish line of the alpine events. Ring cowbells, blow horns and show support.

Witness challenges not stopping athletes from reaching their goal of giving their best. Have conversations with your family and friends regarding the true meaning of success and winning. Realize that perceived disability cannot stop ability.

Come and see. o For more details about the Special Olympics Winter Games, Feb. 21 through 23 in Central New York, see the Calendar. Deborah Cavanagh lives in Manlius with her husband and two children.

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PRE K — 6 TH GRADE Faith & Values, Academic Excellence , Family & Community

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Family Times February 2014

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Science Fair and Open House Friday, February 7th 6:00-8:00 pm Full Day Kindergarten Grades K-6

Small Class Sizes and Individualized Instruction Spanish Language Programs K-6 Fine Arts Program Includes Violin Lessons, Performance Choir, Music and Movement, Art Appreciation Oustanding Teachers and Staff (All Teachers NYS Certified) Mobile Computer Lab Fun-Filled Chapel Services held every morning School Library with over 3,000 books Please check / call to schedule a tour. www.wordoflifeacademy.org

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Family Times February 2014

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Family Faces

B Y TA M M Y D i D O M E N I C O

A Life on Ice

MICHAEL DAVIS PHOTO

Rob Zettler coaches the Syracuse Crunch AHL team

Team Zettler: Shannon, Robert, Laney and Emma and Rob Zettler gather in the War Memorial for a photo.

T

he cold and snow of Central New York are of little concern to Rob Zettler. After all, Zettler, coach of the Syracuse Crunch hockey team, hails from Sept-Îles, Quebec, and has had skates on his feet for most of his 45 years.

“It was pretty typical for the kids in our neighborhood to play a lot of hockey,” says Zettler. “Canadians see hockey as a game we can put our stamp on. My two brothers and I, we all played. Somebody was always organizing neighborhood games at nearby ponds in the winter—street hockey in the summer. The better players would also play in the city leagues.”

Zettler’s love for the game kept growing. He had a successful run at the junior level with the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds. By 1986, he made it to the National Hockey League, signing with the Minnesota North Stars.

Zettler, a defenseman, enjoyed a 14-year run in the NHL, finishing his playing career with the Washington Capitals in 2002.

Despite hockey’s reputation as a punishing sport, Zettler jokes when asked about the injuries he sustained. “I didn’t have too many, luckily,” he says with a laugh. “I have a good surgeon and a good dentist.”

Coaching, Zettler says, was a logical next step. He was named an assistant coach with the San Jose Sharks just months after ending his playing career.

He has also worked with the Toronto Maple Leafs, a team he played on from 1995 to 1998. Zettler was hired by the Tampa Bay Lightning—the parent organization of the Syracuse Crunch—in 2012. After one season as an assistant, Zettler was named head coach of the Crunch in March 2013.

While Quebec will always be home, Zettler’s career has taken him to various regions of the United States and Canada.

One day, during his time with San Jose, Zettler went into a store to buy a shirt and tie, and met his future wife, Shannon—a

California native. The couple have been married for more than 20 years, and Zettler considers her his most important teammate.

“When you are in this game, the best thing to have is an understanding spouse,” he says. “She wasn’t that familiar with hockey at first, but she became a fan of whatever team I was on. She attends Crunch games whenever she can.”

The couple have three children: Laney, 14, Emma, 12, and Robert, 6. All have adapted well to their Manlius community. “My kids have never known any other kind of life. They are used to having to pick up and move. But they really enjoy it here. They really like their schools.”

Zettler admits that juggling family life with coaching is a challenge during the playing season. “There’s really no downtime; we’re doing something every day. But I really try continued on page 22 Family Times February 2014

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tory; Zettler helped lead the team to division and conference championships. The team lost in the Calder Cup finals, but Zettler was impressed by the level of support fans showed. And the team is fired up to do even better this season.

“Syracuse is definitely a hockey town,” he says, adding that American fans are typically the more enthusiastic spectators, despite Canadians’ deep love for the sport. “Typically, there is a core group of very dedicated fans in every city, but there is definitely a passion for it here in Syracuse. There is a lot of enthusiasm behind the team, and the guys appreciate that.”

MICHAEL DAVIS PHOTOS

Eyes on the ice: “The best part for me is the teaching part,” Zettler says.

While the goals for the Crunch and other teams in the AHL are— primarily—to win and to develop players for the NHL teams, Zettler says he has enjoyed, and will continue to encourage, the relationship the team has with the Syracuse community. Crunch players are affiliated with every-

Veteran players: “Things go a lot smoother with good team leadership. That helps the younger players evolve,” Zettler says. continued from page 21 to get home for dinner on practice days.”

The off season is all about family. The Zettlers head to California every summer to reconnect with Shannon’s family, recharge, and soak up some sun.

The move to Syracuse has helped Zettler’s career. He arrived last year during what was arguably one the most exciting hockey seasons in Crunch his22

thing from Toys for Tots and the Hillside Family of Agencies to Autism Speaks.

“Our guys are fantastic about giving their time,” says Zettler. “Most of these players are only here during the season. They come from all over the world. But the Crunch organization believes it’s important to support the community and give back.”

In his role as coach, Zettler believes he has

an opportunity to give back to the game.

As a player, he developed a strong sense of organization and structure, which has been an important element of his coaching style.

“At this level, the best part for me is the teaching part—seeing how that translates to the ice,” he says. “As a coach, every player is looking to you for answers. You can’t be like anyone else: You have to be straightforward with them.”

“Syracuse is definitely

a hockey town. There is a lot of enthusiasm behind the team.

”

Zettler says his integration into the Crunch fold was made easier thanks to a great core of veteran players that exemplify team leadership, including forwards Eric Neilson and Mike Angelidis, and defenseman J.P. Cote, who was called up to the NHL’s Tampa Bay Lightning in December. “Things go a lot smoother with good team leadership,” Zettler says. “That helps the younger players evolve, and that’s been a key to our success.”

As a parent, Zettler has become increasingly interested in local youth athletic programs. His son recently started playing hockey with the Valley Youth Hockey program at Meachem Ice Rink in Syracuse, and Zettler has been struck by the level of commitment and enthusiasm from the program’s volunteer coaches.

“There’s no pressure on the kids and there is great support,” he says. “I think the measure of a good program is: Do the kids want to keep playing?

That’s the take-away.”

No matter what sport a child is into, Zettler advises parents to resist the urge to push. He has seen enough natural athletes to know that the motivation to succeed comes from within.

“If the kid doesn’t have a passion for it, they will not succeed,” he says. “If they do, they will want to work hard, and they will have fun.” o Award-winning writer Tammy DiDomenico lives in DeWitt with her husband and two sons.

Family Times February 2014

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RECIPE DOCTOR

BY CHRIS XAVER

PHOTO COURTESY OF CHRIS XAVER

Dark Bliss Indulge in chocolate cake in honor of Valentine’s Day

F

or most of my life, chocolate was demonized. An indulgence. A guilty pleasure. So when we all found out chocolate was “good” for us, I felt vindicated.

You see, I never bought into the notion that something that amazingly good could really be bad for me. I just couldn’t make myself believe it. I make no apologies for loving chocolate. I’m just lucky chocolate has these fantastic health properties. Phew! Now, I don’t have to hide my love affair.

Dark chocolate is now the darling of those of us who felt guilty for so long. An Italian study in 2005 found that those who regularly eat chocolate may end up with an increase in insulin sensitivity, which could reduce the chances of getting type 2 diabetes. Dark chocolate is filled with flavonoids.

Those are antioxidants in the polyphenol category. Procyanidins and epicatechins are also found in tea, dark red wine and some vegetables and fruits. In other words, dark chocolate helps prevent cell damage and could help prevent cancer.

The key is realizing that all chocolate is not created equal. Milk chocolate is often filled with fats and sugar and has a fraction of the health benefits of dark chocolate. Chocolate itself isn’t the brightly wrapped candy bar we find at the grocery store. It’s made from a bean from the cocoa tree. The beans are 24

dried, roasted and ground, much like coffee.

We then use that in combination with sugar and fat to create the chocolate bars we’re all familiar with.

Dark chocolate is much more concentrated than milk chocolate. Dark has at least 60 percent cocoa solids and little to no added sugars. Its flavor is intense. So much so, extremely dark chocolate can be positively bitter. This is the chocolate that has the health benefits, which include a decrease in LDL (a.k.a. “bad”) cholesterol.

But wait, there’s more. A study published by the American Medical Association showed that dark chocolate had an effect on lowering blood pressure. Several studies have shown chocolate boosts serotonin and endorphin (dopamine) levels in the brain. Meaning, people are happier when they’re eating chocolate. (You knew that, didn’t you?)

And, perfect for Valentine’s Day, chocolate has phenylethylamine, or PEA—an aphrodisiac known as the “love chemical.” The Aztecs believed chocolate “invigorated men” and helped women “loosen up.” What we know is that dark chocolate increases blood flow

in the arteries and the heart. Perhaps that’s why the men are invigorated and women lose their inhibitions?

If that weren’t enough, dark chocolate has blood thinning/anti-clotting properties. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition says that cocoa works in a similar way as aspirin. But there are concerns, too.

Chocolate is filled with caffeine. If you’re sensitive to caffeine, you should consume chocolate in moderation.

I have a square of dark chocolate each day. I place it on my tongue, savoring the sensation as it melts. And you’ll savor a deep chocolate sensation with this recipe. This is a flourless chocolate cake that you can have with or without heat. The kind of heat you add with chili pepper, as I know this cake will produce heat for you and your loved ones this Valentine’s Day! This cake is hot stuff! o Chris Xaver, Ph.D., is a local TV and radio personality with three children and five grandchildren. Her healthy lifestyle show, The Sweet Life, is airing on public television stations nationwide.

Family Times February 2014

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RECIPE Flourless Chocolate Chili Cake (Yes, chili, chocolate and cake do all belong in the same recipe. This takes dessert to a whole new level.)

PHOTO COURTESY OF CHRIS XAVER

1 tablespoon cornstarch 1 tablespoon Dutch process cocoa powder, or other dark cocoa powder 6 ounces bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped 1 1/2 tablespoons ancho chili powder (for the kids, you can either leave this ingredient out, or reduce the amount; or substitute 2 tablespoons strongly brewed coffee) 3 tablespoons light sour cream 2 tablespoons heart-healthy or regular butter 2 cups sucralose, stevia or sugar (divided) 3 egg yolks 1 tablespoon water 5 egg whites Hot water “Like� us on Facebook and share pictures of you and your family trying our recipes!

Preheat oven to 250 degrees. Spray a 9-inch springform pan with non-stick cooking spray. Place parchment cake circle in the pan. Wrap bottom of pan in foil.

Using a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate on 50 percent power, starting with a 1-minute interval. Stir, and microwave 1 more minute. Then continue to microwave for 15 seconds at a time, stirring in between, until melted. Stir in heart-healthy butter. Then mix in sour cream. Set aside.

In a separate bowl, whisk 1 cup sucralose together with egg yolks and water. Pour the melted chocolate into this mixture.

Very carefully fold the two together.

Put the egg whites in a large bowl and whip with a mixer until soft peaks form. Then add 1 cup sucralose and mix just until combined. Take 1/3 of the egg whites and fold into the melted chocolate mixture. Mix cocoa powder with chili powder and cornstarch. Stir into this the melted chocolate and egg white mixture. Then fold in the rest of the egg whites.

Carefully pour the batter into springform pan.

Put the filled cake pan into a larger baking dish; a large flat-bottomed skillet works well, or even a roasting pan. Place in oven. Boil some water (I use a kettle because the spout makes this easier) and pour hot water into the larger pan until it is about 3/4 of the way up the side of springform pan. This creates a water bath. Bake 50 to 60 minutes until cake is firm and set. Cool on wire rack. Once fully cooled, unmold directly onto cake plate. Garnish as desired. Perhaps a chili pepper or two!

Serves 8.

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Family Times February 2014

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Sweet Treats at Rosamond Gifford Zoo, Feb. 9

Please note: Mistakes happen. To confirm event details, call the sponsoring organization’s phone number or visit the website.

Chinese New Year Celebration. 10 a.m.-5

FRIDAY, JAN. 31

12:30 p.m. Representatives of preschools from the east side of Syracuse will be on hand to provide information about their programs. There will also be Smartplay in the community room and a sale of children’s books. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free. 637-6374.

Chinese New Year Celebration. 9 a.m.-6

p.m.; also Feb. 1. Enjoy Chinese crafts, fortune cookies and more. For preschool through grade 6.

Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool.

Free. 457-0310. lpl.org.

SATURDAY, FEB. 1 Hazard Take Your Child to the Library Day. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Enjoy a special day of games,

activities and snacks. Hazard Branch Library, 1620 W. Genesee St., Syracuse. Free. 435-5326.

Teeny Yogini. 10-10:45 a.m. A family yoga

class for children ages 2 ½ to 6 and a parent or other special adult. Willow Health and Wellness Center, 3090 Belgium Road, Baldwinsville. $15/ adult & child; $20/family. Register: 622-3423.

p.m. See Jan. 31 listing.

Preschool Information Fair. 10:30 a.m.-

The Spoon Man. 11 a.m. Jim “The Spoon Man” Cruise offers hilarious interactive comedy for all ages. DeWitt Community Library, Shoppingtown Mall (below food court), 3649 Erie Blvd.

E., DeWitt. Free. 446-3578.

Animation Exhibit Opening. 11 a.m.-4

p.m.; also Feb. 2. Experience the many processes used in the art of animation. Also meet and pose for pictures with Scooby Doo, Cartoon Network’s canine celebrity. The Strong National Museum of Play, 1 Manhattan Square, Rochester. Admission: $13.50; free/younger than 2. (585) 263-2700. www.museumofplay.org.

Take Your Child to the Library Day. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Libraries throughout Central New York and the United States celebrate. At Onondaga Free Library, there will be free cocoa in the café, bookmarks and other prizes, and stories on the hour until 3 p.m. Onondaga Free Library, 4840 W. Seneca Turnpike, Syracuse. Free. 492-1727.

Perusing with Pups. 11 a.m.-noon. Kids ages 6-10 can read a story to a dog from Sunshine Friends; five 10-minute sessions. Onondaga Free Library, 4840 W. Seneca Turnpike, Syracuse. Free.

Registration required: 492-1727.

A World of Puppets. 11 a.m. Open Hand Theater performs “The Masks of Life.” International Mask and Puppet Museum, 518 Prospect Ave., Syracuse. $8. Reserve: 476-0466.

Toddlers’ Tango. 11 a.m. Little ones can take part in creative music and dance using props and instruments. Central Library, Galleries of Syracuse, 447 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Free. 435-1900. continued on page 28

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February 2014 THURSDAY, FEB. 6 Preschool Storytime. 10:30 a.m.; also Feb. 13, 20 & 27. Children ages 3-5 can hear stories, sing songs and enjoy finger play. Soule Branch Library, 101 Springfield Road, Syracuse. Free. 435-5320.

African-American Read-In. 3-5 p.m.; also Feb. 13 & 20. Parents can bring toddlers and preschoolers to enjoy songs, dance and fun in celebration of Black History Month. Beauchamp Branch Library, 2111 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Free.

435-3395.

Yarn Fun. 3:30 p.m. Kids age 5 and up can make yarn crafts like pom poms and play games including Cat’s Cradle. Onondaga Free Library, 4840 W. Seneca Turnpike, Syracuse. Free. Registration preferred: 492-1727.

FRIDAY, FEB. 7 The Amazing Library Race for Homeschoolers. 10:30 a.m. Homeschooling family

teams with three to five members of various ages can complete challenges. Paine Branch Library, 113 Nichols Ave., Syracuse. Free. Registration required by Feb. 3: 435-5442.

Elmo’s Birthday Party. 10:30 a.m. Children ages 2-6 can celebrate with Sesame Street stories, songs and crafts. DeWitt Community Library, Shoppingtown Mall (below food court), 3649 Erie Blvd. E., DeWitt. Free. Registration required: 446-3578.

Splat the Cat Visits Storytime, Feb. 8

Word of Life Christian Academy Science Fair and Open House. 6-8 p.m. Tour

continued from page 27

Sleeping Beauty. 12:30 p.m. The Magic

Circle Children’s Theatre presents an original version of the fairy tale, in which children in the audience help the Prince save Sleeping Beautyfrom her jealous sister’s spell. Children can dress up as fairy tale characters to enhance their fun.

Spaghetti Warehouse, 689 N. Clinton St., Syracuse. $5. 449-3823.

The Spoon Man. 1 p.m. Jim Cruise makes

music with two ordinary tablespoons in a show that includes sing-alongs. Central Library, Galleries of Syracuse, 447 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Free.

435-1900.

Sciencenter Showtime. 2 p.m. Explore the

inner world of the human brain and learn how it communicates with the body. Sciencenter, 601 First St., Ithaca. Admission: $8/adults; $7/seniors; $6/ages 3-17; free/under 3. (607) 272-0600.

Crafternoon. 2:30-4:30 p.m. Kids of all ages can drop by and make some crafts. DeWitt Community Library, Shoppingtown Mall (below food court), 3649 Erie Blvd. E., DeWitt. Free. 446-3578.

Syracuse Crunch. 3 p.m. The American Hockey League team faces the Norfolk Admirals. War Memorial, 800 S. State St., Syracuse. $16-$20, plus applicable processing fees. 473-4444.

SUNDAY, FEB. 2 Animation Exhibit Opening. 1-4 p.m. See Feb. 1 listing.

Moto-Inventions. 1-2 p.m.; Sundays in

February. Tinker with recycled materials and electricity to make whirling, moving machines.

Sciencenter, 601 First St., Ithaca. Admission: $8/ adults; $7/seniors; $6/ages 3-17; free/under 3.

(607) 272-0600.

28

Free Sunday at the Sciencenter. Noon-5 p.m.; also March 2. First Sunday of the month in February and March, admission is free. Sciencenter, 601 First St., Ithaca. Free. (607) 272-0600.

MONDAY, FEB. 3 See Ongoing Events

TUESDAY, FEB. 4 Creation Club. 3:30-5 p.m.; also Feb. 18.

Students in grades 6-9 will develop skills to create and edit videos, podcasts, images, 3D models and more using library software and hardware to share books they love with the community. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free.

Registration required: 637-6374.

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 5 Creation Club Junior. 4-5:30 p.m.; also Feb. 19. Students in grades 3-5 will develop skills to create and edit videos, podcasts, images, 3D models and more. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free. Registration required: 637-6374.

Teen Geeks. 6-8 p.m. Kids in grades 7-12 can hang out, play games, eat snacks and create.

Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool.

Free. 457-0310. lpl.org.

Multiple Moms Mingle. 6:30 p.m. Month-

ly meeting of mothers and expectant mothers of multiples. Ruby Tuesday, 3220 Erie Blvd. E., DeWitt. Reserve: 308-0277.

the school and watch students perform science experiments. Teachers on hand to answer questions. Word of Life Christian Academy and Preschool, 12 E. Oneida St., Baldwinsville. 849-1187. www.wordoflifeacademy.org.

SATURDAY, FEB. 8 Book and Bake Sale. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Baked

goods, and used books, DVDs, audiobooks, CDs and more will be for sale. A $2 bag sale takes place 1:30-4 p.m. Northern Onondaga Public Library at Cicero, 8686 Knowledge Lane, Cicero.

699-2032. www.nopl.org.

Little Makers. 10:30-11:30 a.m.; also Feb. 11. Children ages 5-8 can read a story and make something based on the book; program promotes literacy and science, technology, engineering and mathematics skills. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free. Registration required: 637-6374.

Splat the Cat Visits Storytime. 11 a.m.

Storytime features Love Monster by Rachel Bright and Funny Valentine by Rob Scotton, with a special appearance by Splat the Cat. Barnes & Noble, 3454 Erie Blvd. E., DeWitt. Free. 449-2948.

A World of Puppets. 11 a.m. Hobey Ford’s

Golden Rod Puppets perform “World Tales.” International Mask and Puppet Museum, 518 Prospect Ave., Syracuse. $8. Reserve: 476-0466.

Animal ABCs. Noon. A Rosamond Gifford

Zoo staffer gives a presentation that features live animal visitors, animal artifacts and other fun; best for birth to age 5, accompanied by an adult.

White Branch Library, 763 Butternut St., Syracuse.

Free. 435-3519.

Family Times February 2014

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Thornden Park Association Chili Bowl Festival. Noon-3

TUESDAY, FEB. 11

Sleeping Beauty. 12:30 p.m.

Teen MOPS. 4-6 p.m.; also Feb. 25. Young mothers, ages 13-21, with children under 6 enjoy a faith-based program with fun, food and activities while their children are cared for by the childcare program. Liverpool First United Methodist Church, 604 Oswego St., Liverpool. Free. 569-2542.

Hands-On Learning Event.

See Feb. 8 listing.

p.m. From-scratch chilis, corn bread and home brewed root beer for sale to benefit the association. Thornden Park field house, next to the football field, Syracuse. Food for purchase.

473-4330.

See Feb. 1 listing.

1 p.m. Children age 4 and up can get a chance to use their sharing, creativity and storytelling skills.

Barnes & Noble, 3454 Erie Blvd.

E., DeWitt. Free. Registration required: 449-2948.

Storyweavers. 2 p.m. Jacquelyn Grace performs on traditional African instruments and tells West African folktales. Central Library, Galleries of Syracuse, 447 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Free. 435-1900.

Sciencenter Showtime. 2 p.m. Make crafts with surprising reused materials. Sciencenter, 601 First St., Ithaca. Admission: $8/ adults; $7/seniors; $6/ages 3-17; free/under 3. (607) 272-0600.

Sled for Red Derby. 5:15 p.m. Teams construct cardboard sleds (raising a minimum of $250 in donations) and compete in the derby. A tubing party, with hot chocolate, food, beer and wine sampling follows the competition. Event raises money for ACR Health’s youth prevention and other programs.

Four Seasons Gold & Ski Center, 8012 E. Genesee St., Fayetteville. $10/party. (800) 475-2340. www.

ACRHealth.org.

Syracuse Crunch. 7 p.m. Vs. Springfield Falcons. See Feb. 1 listing.

SUNDAY, FEB. 9 Sweet Treats. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. A

variety of animals will receive Valentine’s Day treats, including the bears, lions and elephants. The animals will be presented with heartshaped treats including popsicles made with juice and fruits, meat patties and jelly beans. Rosamond Gifford Zoo at Burnet Park, 1 Conservation Place, Syracuse. February admission: $4/adults; $2.50/seniors; $2/ages 3-18; free/age 2 & younger.

435-8511.

Valentine Family Yoga Class. 3:30-5 p.m. Dharma Yoga of Syracuse (formerly CNY Yoga), 101 First St., Liverpool. $10/person; $25/ family. Register: 622-3423.

MONDAY, FEB. 10 Toddler Dance Party. 10:30

a.m. Toddlers and caregivers can shimmy and shake to some tunes.

Hazard Branch Library, 1620 W. Genesee St., Syracuse. Free. 435-5326.

Savethe

Date Saturday, April 5th D R I V E R ’S VILLAGE

Little Makers. 5:30-6:30 p.m.

presents

Father-Daughter Valentine Ball. 6:30-9 p.m. Fathers and

daughters (age 3 and older) can enjoy a memorable evening, with dancing, magicians, a gift bag, and a light snack of cookies and soft drinks. Space is limited and reservations are required. A benefit for Upstate Golisano Children’s Hospital. Empire Room, New York State Fairgrounds, Geddes. $60/ father & daughter. Reservations required: 464-4416. www. foundationforupstate.org/fdvb.

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 12

‘14

The place and time to figure out what to do this summer!

Fun with Ice and Snow. 2

p.m. Children ages 6-12 can take part in experiments like Magic Ice and Iceberg in a Glass. A frosty treat will also be offered.

Paine Branch Library, 113 Nichols Ave., Syracuse. Free. Registration requested: 435-5442.

Lego Brainstorm. 3:30-5 p.m.

Students in grades 3-5 can get an introduction to basic Lego robotic programming, followed by a mission challenge. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free. Registration required: 637-6374.

Anime Night. 6-8 p.m. Teens in grades 7-12 can watch and discuss anime and take part in related contests and games. Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool.

Free. Registration required: 4570310. lpl.org.

THURSDAY, FEB. 13 MOMS Club of Syracuse-East. 9:30 a.m. Gathering for local kids and moms. Manlius United Methodist Church, 111 Wesley St., Manlius. Free. 395-5009. http:// momsclubofcuseeast.webs.com/.

Annual Auto Expo. 4-9 p.m.;

through Feb. 16. See new models and concept cars from the Syracuse Auto Dealers Association in 135,000 square feet of show space. Convention Center, 500 S. State St., Syracuse. $9/ adults; $7/seniors; $3/under 12; free/ under 5. 474-1041. continued on page 30

Sporting Events, Equipment & Facilities

Vacation Rentals Overnight Camps

Educational Programs

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Day-Trip Destinations Campgrounds Chambers of Commerce Family Adventures Concerts & Performing Arts Party Rentals & Activities

Do you have a business that provides products and/or services to families? Come meet thousands of parents and children interested in learning more about them!

For exhibitor/advertiser information, please call us at

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Family Times February 2014

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1/23/14 10:58 AM

continued from page 29

Moonlight Skiing and Snowshoeing.

Until 9 p.m.; through Feb. 15. Venture onto Beaver Lake’s 10 miles of trails (if the snow cover is adequate) lit by the moon. Hot chocolate and other refreshments available at the visitor center.

Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. $3/snowshoe rental; $3/vehicle. 638-2519.

FRIDAY, FEB. 14 VALENTINE’S DAY

SATURDAY, FEB. 15

Washington St., Syracuse. Activities range from $1-$5. 676-2496. www.syracusewinterfest.com.

Junior Café Scientifique. 9:30-11 a.m. The

IMAX Movie Hubble Opens. Noon, 2, 4 & 8 p.m. See the movie about the space telescope.

Other IMAX movies showing in February: Coral Reef Adventure, To The Arctic, Amazon, Island of the Sharks and Dolphins. Museum of Science and Technology (MOST), 500 S. Franklin St., Armory Square, Syracuse. IMAX tickets: $10/adults; $8/ ages 2-11 and 65 & older. 425-9068.

Technology Alliance of Central New York presents a talk about the history of colon and rectal surgery, geared toward middle school students. Must be accompanied by an adult. Attendees can visit the exhibits after the presentation. Museum of Science and Technology (MOST), 500 S. Franklin St., Armory Square, Syracuse. Free. Register by email: jrcafe@tacny.org.

Winter Break at the Zoo. 10 a.m.-4:30

Fancy Nancy Valentine’s Day Party. 11

a.m. Kids ages 2-6 can dress up and enjoy books, crafts and refreshments related to the Jane O’Connor Fancy Nancy books. DeWitt Community Library, Shoppingtown Mall (below food court), 3649 Erie Blvd. E., DeWitt. Free. Registration required: 446-3578.

Annual Auto Expo. 4-9 p.m.; through Feb.

16. See Feb. 13 listing.

Valentine’s Family Fun Night. 5-8 p.m.

Children age 8 and under can play, get their hair styled and make a craft. KidzClub Indoor Play and Party Place, 219 Route 57, Phoenix. $15/child.

695-2211. www.facebook.com/KidzClubFun.

Guided Moonlight Snowshoeing. 7 p.m.

Explore the woodlands and frozen marshes on snowshoes with a guide; space limited. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. $3/snowshoe rental; $3/vehicle. Registration required: 638-2519.

p.m.; through Feb. 23. Animal demonstrations and meet-the-keeper sessions take place each day.

Rosamond Gifford Zoo at Burnet Park, 1 Conservation Place, Syracuse. February admission: $4/ adults; $2.50/seniors; $2/ages 3-18; free/age 2 & younger. 435-8511.

Snow Day Yoga. 11 a.m.-noon. Kids can

do yoga poses and play yoga-inspired games as they learn about snow and animals; for ages 5-9.

Baltimore Woods Nature Center, 4007 Bishop Hill Road, Marcellus. $8. Register: 673-1350.

Winter Hibernation Festival. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Numerous activities to help families enjoy and learn about the outdoors, including: a live bird of prey program (noon); walks led by wildlife biologists (1:15 & 2:15 p.m.); igloo building; snow sculpture; hibernation displays; and more. Great Swamp Conservancy, 3.5 miles off I-90, Exit 34, 8375 N. Main St. Canastota. $3/adults; $1/under age 12. 697-2950.

Kids Karnival. Noon-4 p.m.; also Feb. 16 &

21-23. Games, face painting, sand art, a balloon artist, and a model train display. Part of Syracuse Winterfest. City Hall Commons Atrium, 201 E.

Speed. Convenience.

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X-rays on-site. Most insurances accepted.

Annual Auto Expo. Noon-9 p.m.; through Feb. 16. See Feb. 13 listing.

Sleeping Beauty. 12:30 p.m. See Feb. 1 listing.

Sciencenter Showtime. 2 p.m. Find out what veterinarians do, learning how to bandage, splint and vaccinate a stuffed animal. Sciencenter, 601 First St., Ithaca. Admission: $8/adults; $7/seniors; $6/ages 3-17; free/under 3. (607) 272-0600.

Sensory Friendly Time. 5:30-7:30 p.m.

MOST staffers turn down the noise, turn off the flashing lights and shut off the air compressors so people with sensory issues can enjoy the museum.

Museum of Science and Technology (MOST), 500 S. Franklin St., Armory Square, Syracuse. Cost: $5.

425-9068, Ext. 2143.

SUNDAY, FEB. 16 Kids Karnival. Noon-4 p.m.; also Feb. 21-23.

See Feb. 15 listing.

Annual Auto Expo. Noon-5 p.m. See Feb. 13 listing.

MONDAY, FEB. 17 PRESIDENTS’ DAY Winter Wonders Week. 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; daily through Feb. 21. Various special break-week activities, including, at 10 a.m. each day: try snowshoeing (Feb. 17 & 19); ice harvest (Feb. 18 & 20); build a snow cave (Feb. 21). All activities are weather dependent. Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. $3/ vehicle. $5/snowshoe rental. 638-2519.

Making Tracks. 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Chil-

dren age 5 and older can go on a hike with staff from Baltimore Woods Nature Center, looking for animal tracks, and then warm up at the fire barn for a story hour. Onondaga Park fire barn, near the intersection of West Colvin Street and Summit Avenue, Syracuse. Free. 473-4330.

Black History Month Storytime. 11 a.m.

Storytime features Henry’s Freedom Box, a tale of a slave who mails himself to freedom. Barnes & Noble, 3454 Erie Blvd. E., DeWitt. Free. 449-2948.

Fairy Tales Retold. 3:30 p.m. Young people

SEEN IN 15 MINUTES OR LESS.

8003 Route 11 Cicero, NY 13039

Online Parenting Resources Available 24/7

(315) 288-4006 FiveStarUC.com

www.FamilyTimes.biz 30

ages 12-18 can share favorite books based on fairy tales, discover new reads and watch episodes from the TV show Once Upon a Time. Onondaga Free Library, 4840 W. Seneca Turnpike, Syracuse. Free.

Registration preferred: 492-1727.

TUESDAY, FEB. 18 Drop In for Crafts. 9:30 a.m.-8 p.m. Chil-

dren from preschoolers to those in grade 6, with a caregiver, can make seasonal crafts with provided materials. Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool. Free. 457-0310. lpl.org.

Family Times February 2014

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February 2014

Winter Hibernation Festival, Feb. 15 Winter Break at Hazard Branch. 11 a.m.2 p.m.; through Feb. 21. Kids ages 6-12 can make cool things on vacation; all materials provided.

Hazard Branch Library, 1620 W. Genesee St., Syracuse. Free. 435-5326.

Science for Kids. 2-3 p.m. Kids in grades K-3

Crafty Creations. 11 a.m. Children age 3 and

up can make a craft to take home. White Branch Library, 763 Butternut St., Syracuse. Free. 435-3519.

ages 9-12 can make duct tape crafts and paper earrings. Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool. Free. Registration required: 457-0310. lpl.org.

Build a Snowman. 1-2:30 p.m. If the weather

Winter Games. 6-8 p.m. Kids can form teams

Winter Break at Betts Branch. 2 p.m.;

THURSDAY, FEB. 20

is cold and snowy, kids can dress in snowpants and winter gear to build snowmen outside the library. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free. Registration required: 637-6374.

can do winter experiments and learn winter facts.

Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool.

Free. Registration required: 457-0310. lpl.org.

Duct Tape Crafts for Tweens. 2-3 p.m. Kids

and engage in a Minecraft snowball fight. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville.

Free. Registration required: 637-6374.

Tween Chocolatology. 2-3 p.m. Kids ages

9-12 can make chocolate creations from recipes and do taste testing. Liverpool Public Library, 310 Tulip St., Liverpool. Free. Registration required: 457-0310. lpl.org.

Tournament Time. 2 p.m. Kids and teens can bring Pokemon, Yu-Gi-Oh or Dragonball Z cards and go into battle. White Branch Library, 763 Butternut St., Syracuse. Free. 435-3519.

Magic and Drawing with Mike Carter.

7 p.m. The artist and magician presents a program with a Wizard of Oz theme. Onondaga Free Library, 4840 W. Seneca Turnpike, Syracuse. Free.

Registration preferred: 492-1727.

also Feb. 19, 20, 21 & 22. Drop by the library and do a craft, learn to play Go, make a pillow case (Feb. 20, 1 p.m.; all other programs at 2 p.m.), play BINGO or see a movie. Betts Branch Library, 4862 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Free. 435-1940.

SmartPlay. 10:30 a.m.-noon. Children age 5

FRIDAY, FEB. 21

Candle Making. 4:30-7 p.m. Kids age 10 and up can learn candle making, designing their own creations using sun soy and their favorite fragrances. Beauchamp Branch Library, 2111 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Free. Registration required: 435-3395.

Terrific Thursdays. 11:30 a.m. In this session

Toddler Dance Party. 10:30 a.m. Kids ages 18 months-5 years old, with caregivers, can dance with their friends. There will be musical instruments, bubbles and more. DeWitt Community Library, Shoppingtown Mall (below food court), 3649 Erie Blvd. E., DeWitt. Free. 446-3578.

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 19 Sleeping Beauty. 12:30 p.m. See Feb. 1 listing.

Bubble Trouble. 2 p.m. Jeff Boyer entertains in his interactive bubble show. Central Library, Galleries of Syracuse, 447 S. Salina St., Syracuse.

Free. 435-1900.

and younger can take part in a play experience designed to encourage discovery, creativity and early literacy skills. Fayetteville Free Library, 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. Free. 637-6374. of the series for homeschooling families, kids age 9 and up can watch a magic and juggling show and then talk to the performer about how he turned his hobby into a business. DeWitt Community Library, Shoppingtown Mall (below food court), 3649 Erie Blvd. E., DeWitt. Free. Registration required (including names and ages of all children attending): 446-3578.

Wizard of Oz Crafts. 2 p.m. Children age 5

and up can celebrate the 75th anniversary of the classic movie and make themed crafts. Onondaga Free Library, 4840 W. Seneca Turnpike, Syracuse.

Free. Registration preferred: 492-1727.

Kids Karnival. Noon-4 p.m.; through Feb. 23.

See Feb. 15 listing.

Keeping up with the Dance. 3-4:30 p.m.

Dance Theater of Syracuse performs at Beauchamp Branch Library, 2111 S. Salina St., Syracuse.

Free. 435-3395.

Anime After Hours. 6-9 p.m. An evening

of gaming and anime screenings for all ages.

Cosplayers encouraged. Program starts promptly

continued on page 32 Family Times February 2014

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Cross Country Ski Lessons, see Ongoing Events continued from page 31 at 6 p.m. DeWitt Community Library, Shoppingtown Mall (below food court), 3649 Erie Blvd. E., DeWitt. Free. 446-3578.

… 7 p.m. SyrBE A Syracuse Children’s Theatre.

acuse Children’s Theatre students perform 101 Dalmations and “Triple Threat Theatre.” Mulroy Civic Center, 411 Montgomery St., Syracuse. $15.

432-KIDS. www.SCTKids.com.

Star Party. 7-9 p.m. Get a chance to see the

BE A…

constellation of Orion and the planet Jupiter, among other features of the winter sky, using astronomer Bob Piekiel’s telescopes. Dress warmly. Baltimore Woods Nature Center, 4007 Bishop Hill Road, Marcellus. $8/individual; $25/family.

Register: 673-1350.

Syracuse Crunch. 7 p.m. Vs. Utica Comets.

See Feb. 1 listing.

BE A…

Special Olympics Winter Games Opening Ceremonies. 8-9:30 p.m. Parade of ath-

letes, motivational speakers, entertainment and the Law Enforcement Torch Run. Oncenter, 800 S. State St., Syracuse. Free. 314-6839, Ext. 206, or (518) 203-8348.

SATURDAY, FEB. 22 Special Olympics Winter Games. Alpine skiing, starting at 10 a.m. (Greek Peak, 2000 Route 392, Cortland); cross country skiing, starting at 9 a.m. (Highland Forest, 1254 Highland Forest Road, Fabius); snowshoeing, starting at 10 a.m. (Thornden Park, Thornden Park Drive, Syracuse); figure skating and speed skating, starting at 11 a.m. (War Memorial, 515 Montgomery St., Syracuse); floor hockey, starting at 10 a.m.

(Oncenter, 515 Montgomery St., Syracuse). Free.

314-6839, Ext. 206, or (518) 203-8348.

Kids Karnival. Noon-4 p.m.; through Feb. 23.

See Feb. 15 listing.

Sleeping Beauty. 12:30 p.m. See Feb. 1 listing.

Sun Party. 1-3 p.m. Observe the sun through specially filtered telescopes and see what it looks like up close. Baltimore Woods Nature Center, 4007 Bishop Hill Road, Marcellus. $8/individual; $25/family. Register: 673-1350.

Sciencenter Showtime. 2 p.m. Learn to play games and solve problems by programming a robot. Sciencenter, 601 First St., Ithaca. Admission: $8/adults; $7/seniors; $6/ages 3-17; free/ under 3. (607) 272-0600.

OICES

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TAKE THEM OUTSIDE… EVEN IF IT’S COLD!

MODELHEALTHYCHOICES.COM 32

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Family Times February 2014

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February 2014 SUNDAY, FEB. 23 Model Train Fair and Open House. 10

a.m.-4 p.m. Operating train layouts and displays, and dealers selling train items. Presented by the Syracuse Model Railroad Club. Eastwood American Legion Post 1276, James Street and Nichols Avenue, Syracuse. $4/adult; $2/under 12; $12/ family max. 373-7887.

GiGi’s Playhouse International Gala. 6

p.m. Bloom author Kelle Hampton speaks; Amy Robbins is emcee; music provided by Mere Mortals. A fund-raiser for GiGi’s Playhouse. Double Tree by Hilton Hotel Syracuse, 6301 Route 298, Carrier Circle, East Syracuse. $85. 288-PLAY.

Syracuse Crunch. 7 p.m. Vs. Adirondack Phantoms. See Feb. 1 listing.

Kids Karnival. Noon-4 p.m. See Feb. 15 listing.

ONGOING EVENTS

MONDAY, FEB. 24

City of Syracuse Ice Skating. Through

Bead Necklace and Bracelet Craft. 3:30 p.m. Children of all ages can create their own jewelry to celebrate Black History Month. Beauchamp Branch Library, 2111 S. Salina St., Syracuse. Free. 435-3395.

TUESDAY, FEB. 25 See Ongoing Events

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 26 Bedtime Stories. 6:45-7:15 p.m. Children ages 3-6 (or older) can hear stories, even in their PJs, before going home to bed. Betts Branch Library, 4862 S. Salina St., Syracuse.

Free. 435-1940.

THURSDAY, FEB. 27 See Ongoing Events

FRIDAY, FEB. 28 Sesame Street Live: Can’t Stop Singing. 7 p.m.; through March 2. Sesame Street

becomes a musical montage when Elmo gets his hands on Abby Cadabby’s magic wand. Landmark Theatre, 362 S. Salina St., Syracuse. $23.05$34.55. (800) 745-3000. www.ticketmaster.com.

Syracuse Crunch. 7 p.m. Vs. Wilkes-Barre/ Scranton Penguins. See Feb. 1 listing.

SATURDAY, MARCH 1 Sesame Street Live: Can’t Stop Singing.

11:30 a.m. & 3 p.m.; through March 2. See Feb. 28 listing.

Sleeping Beauty. 12:30 p.m. See Feb. 1 listing.

March 30 at indoor rinks; weather permitting, through March 11 at Clinton Square. The Department of Parks, Recreation and Youth Programs offers skating at these locations. Meachem Rink (121 W. Seneca Turnpike). Open skating: Tuesdays-Fridays, 12:15 to 3:15 p.m.; Fridays and Saturdays.

7:15 to 10 p.m. Call in advance as some hockey games interfere with open skate hours: 492-0179.

Sunnycrest Rink (698 Robinson St., near Henninger High School). Open skating: Mondays and Tuesdays, 12:15 to 4:30 p.m.; Wednesdays, noon to 5:30 and 7:15 to 10 p.m.; Thursdays, noon to 4:30 p.m.; Fridays, noon to 4:30 and 7:15 to 10 p.m.; Saturdays, 1:45 to 6:45 p.m., 7 to 8:15 p.m. and 8:30 to 10 p.m.; Sundays, 1:30 to 5:30 p.m., 7:15 to 8:30 p.m. and 8:45 to 10 p.m. $2/adults; $1/children and seniors; skate rental: $3. Call in advance; hours subject to change: 473-4696. Clinton Square Ice Rink. Mondays-Thursdays, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Fridays and school breaks, 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.; Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.; Sundays, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Admission at all rinks: $3/adults; $2/age 12 and under and age 55 and older; $3/skate rental. 423-0129.

Horsedrawn Hay or Sleigh Rides. 11 a.m.4 p.m.; weekends through March 3, and Feb. 17.

Twenty-minute ride into the woods at Highland Forest, 1254 Highland Park Road (off Route 80), Fabius. $6/person; $3/age 5 & under. Registration required: 683-5550.

Cross Country Ski Lessons. Saturdays & Sundays, 10 a.m. & 12-3:30 p.m.; Jan. 4-Feb. 23.

One-hour introductory lesson, weather permitting.

Highland Forest, 1254 Highland Park Road (off Route 80), Fabius. $25/lesson & equipment rental; $10/lesson only. Reservations required: 683-5550.

Weekday Snowshoe Jaunt. Every Wednesday in February, 1:30 p.m. One-hour trek, led by a naturalist, through Beaver Lake’s winter woods.

Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 E. Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville. $3/admission; $3/snowshoe rental. Registration required: 638-2519.

Half-Price Zoo Admission. Daily, 10 a.m.4:30 p.m., throughout February. Visit the zoo and save 50 percent on regular admission prices. Rosamond Gifford Zoo at Burnet Park, 1 Conservation Place. $4/adults; $2.50/seniors; $2/youth; free/age 2 and under. 435-8511.

Calendar listings are free!

Send information about your family-friendly event to: Family Times calendar, 1415 W. Genesee St., Syracuse; Fax to 422-1721; or email to editorial@familytimes.biz.

Include date and time of event, location with numbered street address and town, price, and phone number for publication.

We give priority to low- or no-cost events aimed at parents, kids, or parents accompanied by kids. For consideration, listings are due by Feb. 7 for the March issue.

Try Snowshoeing. Sundays, 12:30 p.m.; through Feb. 23. One-hour clinic includes instructions and a short snowshoe hike. Beaver Lake Nature Center, Route 370, Baldwinsville. Admission: $3 per vehicle. $5/program & snowshoe rental.

Registration required (day of hike, starting at 8 a.m.): 638-2519.

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What’s in our Back Pack Giveaway?

Signature Music 1 Free introductory lesson: piano or voice To enter: Send all contact information to promotions@familytimes.biz with “Music” in the subject line.

Entry deadline February 25,February 2014 2014 35 Family Times

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Family Times February 2014

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1/23/14 10:55 AM