Table Hopping March 2021

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Beauty & Fashion

by Dr. Shauntel Peak-Jimenez, Ph.D

Rocking Your Fashion At 50 And Beyond!

Just because you are 50 or over doesn’t mean your fashion sense has to suffer. You can still look fierce and fabulous at 50 and beyond. Regardless of your age you can still be stylish. I don’t think of women 50 and over as being old, we are seasoned. And when I think of something being seasoned, I think about something having unique flavor, and that is what we have as women 50 and over, unique flavor. We are not old, we are seasoned, and we are amazing!

And what you wear can make you look great and feel great. There is such a thing as aging gracefully and your style plays a big part in that. How? Have you seen clothing that you would love to wear but you are worried about what people will say? Maybe it’s a sexy animal print or a piece of bold jewelry, or maybe it’s a pair of hot red heels.

Whatever it is you may love it, but you say, “I am too old to wear that.” But if it makes you feel good don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try something new.

Refuse to be stuck wearing boring clothes because you are worried about MEAT SLICED what people will say. Boring clothes can FRESH make you look older which works in reverse –PER ORDER!– of you aging gracefully. And who cares • Yuengling what other people think anyway? And Beer Battered Haddock shouldn’t they be concerned about their • Shrimp Po’Boy own life and not yours? Never make style • London Broil decisions based on the opinions of others.

• Meatball If you see something you like try it on, Parmigiana • Reuben and if it fits good then buy it and rock it! It’s • Mediterranean your life to live so don’t be afraid to live it Plate against the expectations of others. Wearing • Plus Much More clothes that are trendy and colorful can release the internal fountain of youth. You will feel better on the inside and that can help you to look better on the outside.

I know when I feel good on the inside, I LENTEN PER ORDER am more motivated to do a lot of things !

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something fashionable that works well for you. Something that flatters your body and enhances your beauty.

And did you know that what happens in your mind affects your decisions? So, if you are thinking you are old guess what? Your wardrobe probably looks old and outdated. But it doesn’t have to stay that way. So, what can you do? Well, first you need to change your mindset around being your age. Stop thinking you are old and stop thinking about how you used to be 25 years ago. That time has passed, but guess what? You can still be fabulous at your age. Our goal is not to be 25 years old again, it is to be the best us we can be today, at the age we are. And do we really want to go back to when we were 25 years old? I certainly don’t. If you are like me, you have learned a lot in between then and now that has gotten you to the phenomenal woman you are today!

Secondly, make a plan to upgrade your style, whatever that looks like for you. And here’s a hint. You can start with just an accessory or two and go from there.

You don’t have to do a complete clothing overhaul overnight, that can be pricey and overwhelming. Start one step at a time and grow from there.

I remember being younger and I used to think, gosh 50 sounds old. Then I hit 50 and thought wow 50 is fabulous. How you look at things is totally up to you. You can look out of a window and see the beautiful sky, or you can look out of a window and see the dirt.

Refuse to look at yourself in a way that does not make you feel powerful. Look at yourself in a way that makes you feel amazing, beautiful, and radiant, life is too short not to.

“But if it makes you feel good don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try something new.”

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My Mind To Yours

by debra Merryweather

For Women’s History Month 2021 The theme for Women’s History Month 2020 was “Valiant Women of the Vote.” 2021 builds on 2020’s theme: “Valiant Women of the Vote: Refusing to be Silenced.” Refusing to be silenced about civil and political rights plays as more valiant than refusing to be silenced about one’s body being used and violated. While authorities force fed female suffragists, many poor mothers lost their children to orphan trains and industrial schools while they themselves lacked means or power to keep their born children and keep from conceiving more. Today, adoption, a happy sounding word, is characterized as a nice reproductive option. The reality of adoption is a mixed bag.

I read Tim Green’s 1997 memoir “A Man and His Mother: An Adopted Son’s Search,” after hearing about the book following Tim Green’s 2018 revelation that he’d developed ALS. As I read along, I realized that I had heard of the book before. My father suggested I read Tim Green’s memoir when it first came out; my father said the book might help me understand some things, a suggestion that I misunderstood to be related to football.

Page 11 of Tim Green’s memoir makes a powerful statement about cut cords that I now very much understand.

By the time I read “A Man and His Mother,” I had read many adoptees’ and mothers’ stories. I’d joined social media groups devoted to increasing adoptee access to information. I’ve left groups where activists harshly judged “mothers in hiding.”

Advocates of closed records frequently cite birth mothers’ privacy as a primary issue.

While there are mothers who might wish to remain anonymous; there are many who do not; many women spend years searching for the children they’d been gaslighted or forced into relinquishing.

Some adoptees themselves report being made to feel ungrateful for wanting to know their biological roots. Adoptees seek to know their biological and family histories for a variety of reasons. We all, male and female alike, entered life through the biology of

“Some adoptees themselves report being made to feel ungrateful for wanting to know their biological roots.” some living breathing woman somewhere. Our economic system seems not to reward childrearing unless it’s done by others; education and career building is encouraged during the timeframe in which women are most fertile; and amid both limiting and expanding opportunities for girls and women, our multi-cultural USA seems unified in one thing: causing girls from menarche forward, to associate socioeconomic success with overcoming or sidestepping biology and generativity. The rough stuff of women’s collective reproductive histories still falls into the realm of experiences “we” don’t talk about. I don’t know what is being taught in religious, health, or sex-ed classes these days,

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Valiant Women of the Vote: Refusing to be Silenced

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but I wish they would teach from Daniel Siegel’s practical neuroscience book “Brainstorm.” Our senses, bodies and minds are designed to work together in specific ways at specific ages. Wholistic human health underpins societal health yet we compartmentalize our experiences to survive.

Women’s History Month tends to focus on women’s career or civic achievements in what used to be called “a man’s world.” An individual woman’s history builds on her own understanding of important life events. “Back from Oblivion,” a recent article in American Academy of Neurology bi-monthly “Brain and Life,” describes how, during brain injury, retrograde amnesia, the inability to recall stored memories; and anterograde amnesia, the inability to store new memories, often coexist. My reading and experience suggest that severing connection to one’s own history prevents a person from connecting ongoing feelings to past causes.

The body remembers what the mind can’t understand. Re-integrating blocked personal histories and perspectives into the shared narrative is not rewriting history; it’s making Staten Island Home history more complete.

Mothers and infants separated at birth both suffer trauma: trauma that society does not acknowledge.

Gabrielle Glaser’s 2021 book “American Baby: A Mother, A Child, and The Shadow History of Adoption,” details a birth and adoption story from the not-so-distant past. In 1961, 16-year-old Margaret Erle became pregnant after having sex once with her boyfriend.

Margaret hides her pregnancy for a time, but once discovered, finds herself called “hure” by her mother; hissed at by strangers on the bus; and sent to a Staten Island home for unwed mothers run by Louise Wise Services, an adoption agency.

I read “American Baby” quickly; but it is not a quick, comfortable read. I listened to two radio interviews with Ms. Glaser. In a February 16 interview on WNYC radio, the author mentions that, prior to 1971, premarital sex was illegal in NYS. (I do recall that in the 1960’s, pregnant girls were characterized as “in trouble” even if they’d done nothing “wrong.” I didn’t know what that “something wrong” was.) While Margaret hoped to get her son, whom she named Stephen, out of the pre-adoption foster placements Margaret’s mother had agreed to, because of New York law, Louise Wise Services was ultimately able to threaten Margaret with incarceration if she did not sign final papers.

“American Baby” is more than the stories of Margaret and her son, whom his adopted parents named David. It is the story of family, tradition, human rights, civil rights, and change. If anyone wants to read some women’s history for Women’s History Month, I suggest “American Baby.”

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Inside... on the

6

dining out

by Kerilyn Micale The Euclid Restaurant

march 2021 VOLUME 43 No. 3

beauty & fashion by Dr. Peak-Jimenez. . . . . . 2 my mind to yours by Debra Merryweather . . . . 4 streaming now by Brian Miller. . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 the write stuff by Nancy Roberts. . . . . . . . . 12 word on the street by Bill McClellan. . . . . . 14 tales from the vine by Deborah Carpenter . 16 sports take by Mike Lindsley. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 sounds of syracuse by Chuck Schiele. . . . . 22 brew time by Kristin Merrit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 excercise & fitness by Jennifer Nastasi . . . 26 golf by Article City . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 now playing by Brian Miller. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

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preventative medicine

by Dr. Barry Detox Cocktail – Make Mine a Double

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business of interest

by Nancy Roberts Ellen Krassowski – Allstate

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TABLE HOPPING

Dining Out

by Kerilyn E. Micale

Euclid Restaurant I used to say that nothing beats a home cooked meal but after a year of pretty much exclusively cooking at home I have changed my view! Now, I feel like nothing beats a meal that is BETTER than homemade AND when I don’t have to worry about

the dishes! Even though my opinions have changed, something like the Euclid’s location has stayed exactly the same. As it has been for the last 200 years, The Euclid is located at the corner of Morgan Road and Route 31 at 4285 State Route, ¼ mile from Great Northern Mall and close to all of the shopping on Route 31. The restaurant is open Tuesday through Sunday from noon to 8 pm. They are currently closed Monday but be sure to check their website for updated information. If to-go meals are more your speed

these days, the Euclid has you covered and they are happy to accommodate takeout orders and they offer curbside pickup. Their full menu is available online so check out their website at http://www.euclidrestaurant.com/. You can even place your take out order online, just visit the website and click on “Order Online” and follow the super easy steps! You can also give them a call at 315-622-2750, to make a reservation or to place your order and they will have it ready for you to pick up!

One of my favorite things about the Euclid is that it is the perfect Friday night restaurant all year long but especially during lent. I really love their selection of fish and seafood. In the appetizer section they offer fried shrimp, chowder, shrimp cocktail, and fried clam strips. In the

“One of my favorite things about the Euclid is that it is the perfect Friday night restaurant all year long but especially during lent. I really love their selection of fish and seafood.”

Pretzel with Jalapeño Cheese

Italian dinner section they offer Shrimp & Broccoli Alfredo served on a bed of fettuccini. Then they also have two menu sections dedicated entirely to Seafood, “Seafood” and “Broiled Seafood” here you will find Haddock, Lake Perch, and Walleye selections along seafood combination platters and even Scallops Au Gratin topped with melted cheddar with a golden brown finish. I also love this time of year because it seems like you can find corned beef on the menu all over, but don’t be fooled, no one does corned beef boil and open-faced Reubens better than the Euclid. Be sure to come celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with an excellent meal at the Euclid.

Kyle and I arrived at the Euclid

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on a chilly Saturday in February. We just love coming to the Euclid because of the warm and inviting atmosphere.

We are quickly seated at a table in a cozy corner, appropriately socially distanced from the other tables and diners. I knew before we even walked in the door that I wanted to start our meal with a pretzel with jalapeno cheese. This thing is huge and could be a meal in itself. It is perfectly paired with the heaping portion of warm, mildly spicy, jalapeno cheese. Kyle was in the mood for something fried so we also ordered the Euclid Fried Combo with a generous helping of Mushrooms, Cheese sticks, Chicken fingers, and Onion rings. Everything was perfectly golden brown and Euclid Fried Combo

paired perfectly with the four dipping sauces (honey mustard, ranch, marinara, and barbeque.) When we finally called it quits on the appetizers, we were soon served our lovely garden salads and rolls with butter. I love a good garden salad, especially topped with crumbly blue cheese and this salad certainly hit the spot! For our entrees we decided to stray from our usual order of prime rib (one of us ALWAYS gets the prime rib) but I guess we were feeling adventurous that night! I decided on broiled scallops and I was super happy with my choice! I guess I had no idea

12 oz. Delmonico Rib Steak

just how much 10 oz. of scallops was until I saw the giant pile in front of me. The scallops were perfectly cooked and seasoned and I even let Kyle have a few because the helping was so generous. Kyle still stayed in the beef family, but that night he chose the 12 oz. Delmonico Rib Steak and he loved every bite! It was cooked to perfection and nice and tender.

He said he would definitely rotate between this cut and the prime rib for our future visits. I was stuffed but I also have a sweet tooth so we just couldn’t skip dessert. Kyle had a slice of warm apple pie and I had a piece of moist carrot cake with cream cheese frosting. This was a sweet way to end another great meal at the Euclid.

At the Euclid you will always find delicious food, huge portions, great value and a friendly and comfortable atmosphere. Stop in for a meal out and let them do the dishes.

“I decided on broiled scallops and I was super happy with my choice!”

EUCLID The Euclid always has a warm and inviting atmosphere

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Streaming Flicks by MILLER byBRIAN debra Merryweather

Wandavision When the AVENGERS: ENDGAME saga came to its thrilling, memorable conclusion, the big question that remained was where does Marvel go from here? After nearly a decade of exceedingly profitable and popular installments, it was time to leave IRON MAN and CAPTAIN AMERICA behind. The first post-AVENGERS production was unsurprisingly successful. SPIDER-MAN: FAR FROM HOME was exceedingly entertaining, in large part due to Tom Holland’s breezy and lovable turn as Peter Parker. BLACK WIDOW was supposed to be the next installment released, but the global pandemic has resulted in the film being delayed multiple times. As a result, there has been Chain Link nearly a two-year gap in releases in the MCU. This all changed with WANDAVISION, the Fittings surprisingly innovative and shockingly gripping series currently airing on Disney Plus.

As this article goes to print, seven of the nine episodes of the series have been

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released, and the secrets that lie within each installment make this review exceedingly difficult to write. As with any great mystery, the secrets that unfurl within the series are essential to its entertainment value, and it’s difficult to fully analyze what makes the series great without giving much away.

WANDAVISION begins with a sitcom episode straight out of the 50’s.

Avengers Wanda Maximoff (Elizabeth Olson) and Vision (Paul Bettany) are living in black-and-white domestic bliss. Their kooky neighbor Agnes (Kathryn Hahn) is always around to lend a hand or a pineapple, and outside of hosting a dinner for Vision’s boss (even though Vision doesn’t even know exactly what his profession is), they have very few cares or concerns. There is one glaring issue, of course. As viewers, we know Vision died in ENDGAME. This raises questions as to the logistics of his appearance, and where the series fits on the MCU timeline.

Each episode of WANDAVISION represents a different decade of television. While part of the fun is decoding what is happening within the story (there are clues everywhere, even within the theme song that changes with each installment) TV buffs will also love the endless homages and references to series’ of yore. For this reviewer, the 90’s inspired episode, complete with a MACOLM IN THE MIDDLEstyle opening, was one of my favorite single episodes of any series I’ve seen this year.

As truths and surprises are revealed, Vision becomes increasingly puzzled and concerned with the world around him. As Wanda eagerly embraces her new, largely carefree existence, her husband finds it far more difficult to accept the serialized situations that they face as a couple. With no recollection of the life outside of what we have seen unfold on the screen, he begins to question the very fabric of their reality.

“TV buffs will also love the endless homages and references to series’ of yore.”

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Paul Bettany as Vision and Elizabeth Olson as Wanda, left

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Originally, I thought it was a mistake to release the episodes one at a time, eliminating the ability of fans to binge appropriately. As the series has progressed, however, my opinion has shifted. Each week, I have genuinely looked forward to what was going to happen next, reading up on fan theories and easter eggs I may have missed the first time around. The anticipation has been a large part of the fun, and as the season draws to a close, I am already disappointed that it will soon be over. Upon its completion, the MCU will immediately drop its next series, FALCON AND THE WINTER SOLDIER on Disney Plus, possibly solidifying Marvel’s dominance in both the cinematic, and television landscapes. Whereas WONDER WOMAN: 1984 had convinced me that superhero fatigue may have finally settled in, and that the genre may have run its course, WANDAVISION has immediately convinced me that there are more stories to tell, and still groundbreaking ways to do so.

WandaVision

WANDAVISION doesn’t boast the same bombastic action sequences typical of every other Marvel production. This may dissuade some who tune in to watch buildings fall and cities crumble, but others, myself included, will find the shift in dynamics far more intriguing. As eye candy, big-budget battles are incredible, but when you are able to tell a superhero story without them, it feels completely original and surprisingly innovative. This isn’t to say that they won’t work here, and maybe the final two episodes are loaded with them, but that seems increasingly unlikely. There are certainly super-hero style events that unfold, but it is the saga of Wanda and Vision that is truly the driving point of the production.

RATED: PG-13 RUN TIME: TV Mini-Series (2021) GENRE: Action, Comedy, Drama STARRING: Elizabeth Olsen, Paul Bettany, Kathryn Hahn creator: Jac Schaeffer

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Preventive Medicine

by Dr. Barry

Detox Cocktail...

Make Mine a Double This is going to be a longish article and there is too much to cover in one issue but it’s another very important topic for you to get a handle on. When I first heard of people doing detox’s I thought it was some hippy dippy West Coast wheat grass dealio but when I started to look into it, I realized there is a lot to this and its important, as a healthcare provider, that I get a handle on what this entailed.

Detoxifying regimens basically try to eliminate the build up of the various toxins both fat soluble and water soluble in the body you have built up over time. Do I really need to convince you of how toxic you are? I have previously written that the US Government has been sampling human tissues for years; this is taken directly from the EPA website.“ The National Human Monitoring Program (NHMP), established by the U.S. Public Health Service in 1967, used an exposure-based approach to assess human exposure to toxic substances. Its primary component was the National Human Adipose Tissue Survey (NHATS), an annual survey conducted from 1970 to 1989 to collect and chemically analyze human adipose tissue specimens for the presence of toxic chemicals.”

According to their research 100% of fat samples contain styrene which is a breakdown product of styrofoam. Most samples tested contained dioxins, organophosphates etc.

As reported in his book Toxic Solutions, Dr. Joseph Pizzorno reflects on Dr. “One of Syracuse’s Best Kept Secrets Since 1954” Sanjay Gupta’s notes that there are up to 200 chemicals in the blood Italian Specialties of babies even before they are born. Does that get your attention? Over Fresh Fish Everyday!

Prime Rib Saturday 90% of people in America and Hand Cut have measurable levels Ribeye Steaks of phthalates (which is a breakdown product of Takeout and plastic) and glyphosate Catering Offers Leave us your office (the main ingredient in fax number. We’ll send Roundup). Puget sound, you a weekly lunch menu the waterways off the every Monday. coast of the State of Washington have had the LET US CATER YOUR NEXT PARTY fish in the estuaries tested OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK and they were found to Sunday-Thursday 11am-8pm, Friday & Saturday 11am-9pm have measurable levels of Dining Room OPEN 3pm-close these drugs in the fish…

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Tagamet, Oxycontin and Cipro and other antibiotics.

Dr. Pizzorno’s book mentions a study from Harvard which determined that Americans have lost 41 million collective IQ points as a result of exposure to lead, mercury and organophosphate pesticides. This doesn’t even include the question of fluoride exposure and mental retardation. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/ articles/PMC5285601/ What about these many products we use daily that makes them dangerous? The average woman uses 12 health and beauty aids a day and the average man uses 6. These chemicals are not well regulated.

Think this is all just conspiracy theory? Watch the documentary Dark Waters which is about the Dow Chemical company and teflon type coatings.

“The US Government has been sampling human tissues for years.”

The government is coming late to the game and is heavily influenced by the very companies it’s supposed to be regulating. We call these chemicals toxins because they affect your body’s insulin sensitivity, they affect the cell membranes, they affect the microbiome in your guy, they directly affect your DNA and its expression. Toxins disrupt hormone function, mitochondrial activity, nervous activity and displace needed minerals in your body. Furthermore the toxicities are synergistic...each one making the next more damaging.

As reported by the President’s Cancer Panel of 2010 there were 80,000 chemicals in the market in the US, the vast majority of them understudied and unregulated.

There is no point in listing the long string of chemical names and abbreviations that we are exposed to and consume, breath in, coat our skin with etc..it’s just too long and most of the names are unpronounceable.

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The main ingredient in Roundup, glyphosate

Do you recall the article I wrote about children’s sunscreen and how recent evidence showed that the kids had much higher levels of these chemicals in the circulation than had previously been reported?

Is there anyone who thinks this is harmless or unimportant?

The issue of toxins affecting Insulin sensitivity is a particularly interesting one. Dr. Pizzorno’s book makes a compelling argument that it’s very likely that simply increased sugars are not the sole cause for the diabetic crisis we are experiencing. It makes sense that diabetes has increased as our consumption of sugar has increased. We went from consuming 5 pounds of processed sugar in a year to over 152 pounds a year as reported in 2014. But if you look at the graph of sugar

“There are up to 200 chemicals in the blood of babies even before they are born.”

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consumption versus diabetes it is not a tight correlation. On the other hand when you graph diabetes against chemicals on the market there is a much tighter correlation. Now correlation doesn’t prove causation but it certainly raises the intellectual eyebrow.

So this month’s article laid out for you the basic facts that you are loaded with chemicals that disrupt your health at a cellular level. Next month I will lay out what to do about it. Until then Get well and Stay well.

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The Write Stuff

by Nancy Roberts

On the Coffee Table Ever since my dad read his way through the entire World Book Encyclopedia, I have been intrigued by books that fill your mind with facts, odd items, and peeks into a world you might want to explore further. It’s like going to a Tapas restaurant: if you don’t particularly like something, no problem, you have ten other small bites to choose from.

And if you have an adventurous palate and simply want to try a variety of things – enjoy!

A side note – while in Nyack for the weekend, I visited a small used book shop called Pickwick Book Shop. In business since 1945, the little shop is filled, and I do not use that word lightly, with books on every conceivable subject, from romances and adventure novels to classics and old histories and non-fiction. The books are stacked to the ceiling in no particular order, and to my way of thinking that’s part of the store’s charm.

You might go looking for a specific topic or type of book, and end up leaving with three of another kind altogether because they happened to catch your eye.

“The Secret Museum is one of those books that you wish you had been able to write.”

But back to my two most recent treasure troves of information it would probably never dawn on you to go looking for.

The first was actually loaned to me by a friend, and I promise I will return it – shortly. The Secret Museum is one of those books that you wish you had been able to write. The author, Molly Oldfield, quite clearly had the best of fun writing it. Accidentally stumbling onto the fact that most museums don’t display everything in their collections, she took the idea and ran with it. What treasures might be found behind the scenes at some famous, and a variety of specialty museums?

As you might know from visiting The Smithsonian, many museums have far too many

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objects in their collections to display them all, so they rotate many of them into seasonal exhibits, or perhaps send a collection out on a traveling exhibit. Others, like our own Onondaga Historical Association, keep many items in a research collection for scholars and visitors who are looking for special topical information. Some of the “hidden” objects are simply too fragile to be out of a climate-controlled environment; others too precious; a few perhaps too disturbing. Whatever the reason, the curators have chosen to keep some items apart from the permanent or rotated displays. Oldfield made it her mission to visit as many museums as she could, with the objective of learning what was in their “secret” museum.

The book’s organization is a bit like the experience of visiting a museum. She begins each chapter, which is devoted to a hidden object or objects, by placing the museum on a map, a brief description of the museum’s purpose, and, decorated with helpful sidebar imagery, a story of the history of the place, and her visit there – and what she found in their hidden collection.

Her first visit is to The Morgan Library and Museum in New York City. Not the first museum one would think of when visiting New York, the collection started with Pierpont Morgan in the heyday of wealthy collectors of all things rare and precious. Housed in the man’s former home, among the many treasures to be found there include first editions and rare original manuscripts – like Milton’s only existing manuscript of Paradise Lost, and Bob Dylan’s pencil written lyrics for Blowin’ in the Wind. In the archives – the “secret” museum – she sees a vellum version of The Gutenberg Bible. Her experience is described in detail: she stands to read it as the books were designed to be read standing by the monks who owned such treasures; she must gently turn the pages with an acid-free card; she can see the shimmer of the ink and smell the earthy aroma of the calf skin pages. The experience of actually seeing and touching the Bible, and knowing all that this single book represented – the democratization of reading, the alteration of religious history, and just dwelling on the concept of a world before books – is as moving as one might expect.

But she doesn’t stop there.

Collector, Pierpont Morgan In Suitland, MA, she sees a space traveler’s suit – yes, it has been in outer space. In the Vatican Observatory, itself a place many aren’t aware has existed since the 1500s, she sees three pieces of billionyear-old Mars rock (validated by matching the gas bubbles trapped in the rocks with the Mars Rover’s tests of the atmosphere of Mars). In the British Museum, she sees Tablet K.143 of the School Exercise Book of Arshurbanipal, King of Assyria. Cuneiform on a clay tablet, the book was apparently inscribed by the King himself as a boy. Oslo, Norway, is home to the KON-TIKI Museum, where Oldfield reads the Logbook of the famous raft expedition, which set sail in 1947, leaving from Peru and landing in the Polynesian Islands – just to prove it could be done. At the Royal Geographical Society in London she

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Stanley and Livingston sees the actual hats of Stanley and Livingston, she presumes. And she even gets a peek at the actual dental tools used on Queen Victoria, which are housed at the British Dental Association’s Museum in London.

This list, varied and representative though it may be, is a small sampling of the author’s discoveries. Her adventures are delightfully documented, as she conveys her own wonder and wit as she explores the secrets that are not-so-hidden for those who know how to look.

The second book I picked up at one of my favorite discovery book shops: Ollies. Ollies (“Good Stuff Cheap”) is a great way to discover an unexpected print treasure and get it for a steal. This book is an oversize (8.5 x 11) illustrated book called simply Great Buildings.

Since my Art History class in high school, I have been fascinated by public architecture and what we can learn about the times in which it was built. What is chosen for construction, from magnificent cathedrals to official national monuments, and how it is envisioned – secretive, soaring or simple – shares with us the minds and hearts of the people who felt compelled to spend massive amounts of time and treasure on their creation.

The book follows a historic trail from about 2500 BC to “the present,” and travels through Europe and the near East, the Americas, and the far East, with excursions to Moscow and Australia. The buildings include temples, cathedrals, castles and palaces, arts and business centers, and even abbeys and homes.

After a fine introduction to understanding how to “read” a building, from exterior and interior spaces, to order and repetition and the names for the purpose of various rooms and structures, each chapter is then devoted to exploring an example of enduring and marvelous architecture.

We start with the Great Pyramid at Giza.

The writers show us the material, a cutaway diagram of the construction and its interior rooms, and illustrate the chapter with photos that do their best to convey the building’s scope and mystery. Each chapter tells us what is known about the builders, their time

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in history, and what the purpose of the construction was. Through the pages the reader travels to Mexico and a step pyramid; to Aachen, Germany, for a visit to the Palatine Chapel; to Granada, Spain, to see Alhambra; to Paris to drop in at Versailles; and after Charlottesville for a trip to Monticello, back to Germany to see Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria. Traveling forward in time there’s a stop at the Chrysler Building in New York; and to Pennsylvania to see Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fallingwater.

The Sydney Opera House and the Pompidou Centre give us a glimpse at the way architecture has manifested new structural materials and the power and simplicity of enormous spaces.

Either one of these books will let you out of “lockdown,” if only in your imagination, and allow you to travel around and Dental tools used on Queen Victoria explore. Bon voyage!

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Word on the Street

by Bill McClellan

TO: Mayor Walsh

U-N-I-Q-U-E–L-E-A-D-E-R-S-H-I-P 15 SQUARE BLOCKS Mayor: Addressing this to you may assist in getting your attention. I don’t mean to put you on the spot. I wish you nothing but the very best. This country will be served well by you. I understand the ramifications of what I am trying to achieve here. I will hold out some hope: READERS: Please know I have no illusions. I am fully aware of the real tragedy. And that is that the plan I laid out in my series at “word on the street tablehopping. com” Dec, Jan, and Feb issues is not likely to take place. I am right. There is no doubt. The suffering exists. The City has been in decline throughout my life. The plan is good. It will work. So, let’s look at what is missing. It is largely properly directed spirit and innovation. At first blush this may seem condescending. Let me explain what leadership is. Then, when you see how far off the mark we are you will understand why we stay on the path of decline.

What I have asked is for the City to rescue 15 square blocks and set an example. To do it well and develop a “Template” to move forward.

Leadership is the ability to form a proper goal and bring on board those needed to not only achieve the goal but to achieve it with excellence. I am now referring to all City Leadership. A few of you have taken the time to look at this. Maybe a few have read it. No one has made it a priority.

Something they will fight for. Yet it is so completely right. So how do we wade through the personality differences and the status quo operations of the City to form the thinking so that when one leaves office or your Management positions, the City is actually better off? That has not Tully Historical Society’s happened in generations. Complacency wice Read Book Store is where it is decided to function in a safe realm, where everything that is difficult or uncomfortable is suppressed and nothing happens. When there is such agreement Buy1book, Get1FREE within systems, systems fail. You need to The ENTIRE month of March break the mold.

Hours: Mon, Tues, Fri, Sat: 9-1 It starts with the Mayor holding a 24 State St., Tully meeting with the Council. Explaining 315-696-4681 that it is time to reverse course and for

“What I have asked is for the City to rescue 15 square blocks and set an example.”

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the first time in many decades he and they will leave office with the City a better place.

Ask them to become the definition of an American City, really “Walking Tall”. Hotels and malls and programs that work in the periphery of the common good will no longer be the priority. The target priority will be the definitive improvement of quality of life for the 143,000 citizens. Deeds that leave a mark on “individuals”, neighborhoods and homes and safety and hope. We are talking about a drug free city with each neighborhood beautified and safe with an additional array of massive quality of life improvements. (Read the series and you will get it. What is missing and how to incentivize is explained.) Then call a meeting with the Mayor, the Council and every Department Head. Explain it is a new day. Ask them to read my series. “word on the street tablehopping.com” Advise them, it is our time to “Walk Tall” and be part of a unique life changing plan that will revive our City, curb drug, abuse, murder, and suffering.

And make it safe and wholesome.

Let them know they are being asked to be part of something very special and you are looking

for the very best of who they are.

Syracuse is being revived. Explain the goal. A drug free safe city, beautified and structurally repaired. (sidewalks. streets, water pipes, sanitation pipes, gas lines, electrical grids, etc.) Major quality of life changes, where citizens live in a clean groomed city without fear.

A City where a woman can safely and without fear, push her baby carriage on a smooth sidewalk.

Then rent a large hall. Invite every employee in Syracuse Government. (Including every available Police Officer) Explain the above to them as well.

Explain, it is a new day. Syracuse is moving forward like no American City in generations.

And each of you performing with the very best of who you are, will end suffering and pain and cause this City to be a home. Let them know we will be a beacon for others to follow.

Instruct Department Heads to design plans initially for the 15 square block area. Now, you have inspired the leadership and the doers of the City. Give them authority and let the best of who we are fix this City. Set an example of what can take place when the best of who we are decides to roll. Yes, I used that word intentionally “Let’s Roll”. D-Day - June 6th, 2021. That is what heroes do.

As City Hall goes about their duties of officialdom, each day for generations each City block has deteriorated. Today, there are many areas as small as a block long where there have been several murders. In more places than not, you can buy drugs within one block of where you are. This is a small manageable city. This should not be.

My articles for December 2020, and January and February 2021 are a series that offer unique solutions. Based on Special Forces Technique. “word on the street tablehopping. com” I have traveled and researched this city with Western Union (I am the last City Manager) and the Taxi business since 1956. I did not watch it grow because it did not.

I watched it deteriorate. I write often with reference to Patriotism, such as D-Day, the

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Green Berets or the music of our great land. Because I understand you are not inspired. Few are in this Country. That is what is missing. Collective political patriotic inspiration. We don’t walk the talk. You have to really want to fix this City. Deep inside, for those that bled for a great land, not deserted cities of human pain where most of their families live.

If implemented in full the benefits are encompassing. Guns will leave the streets. Far less will be killed each year.

You will be removing the reason for the anger that kills them. Much decency will be restored to mindsets in the absence of a drug business that has adopted mafia style methods.

Status quo daily procedure that leaves decline must be reversed. By reversing the decline in the targeted 15 block impoverished neighborhood you will prove that the entire city can be brought back. With this success clearly on the table money will flow from multiple sources. The degree of ease will largely be due to the “first come first serve” principle. With success which will happen if you do it, it will rain money as the State and Federal Government realize you are on to something that can begin the process of restoring safety and quality of life to our Cities. They will want to see you replicate. They will agree to finance successful replication and testing. They will be eager to see if a City actually can be saved. It can be. No one has tried. This has not been done anywhere in America where diversity exists. Again, by doing this well you will open a flood gate of willing financial assistance. And success will breed economic development we haven’t seen in generations.

The City should be able to afford to fix 15 square blocks. Success as I have carefully showed you how to achieve will show State, Federal and Private benefactors that an unusual plan is under way to revive a city and set an example for others. The Rescue Mission sets a great example of how to secure money. Management is paid extremely well. But they raise so much their salary is a pittance of the total. Because they are really good and because no else is doing it. They buy fund raising professionals, highly skilled at seeking out financing from every nook and cranny of the public and private sectors.

And in this instance such talent will thrive in this naked, wide open, lonely environment.

Complement the talents of these fund-raising professionals with a tool box with a successful template of a revived, thriving, and safe neighborhood and they will be able to easily raise money to rebuild Syracuse.

I was born 4 months after the end of WWII. The following 20 years were really an American Euphoria. The soldiers fought and the homeland supported them. A sense of unity was forged like never before. As a child I thought this was the norm. We went forward together. Each decision was for all of us. In every city, if a square in a sidewalk cracked, it was promptly fixed. A neighborhood store would not think of gouging as it simply would not be tolerated. Fairness and respect wonderfully reigned. It was not veneer, it permeated our hearts and our land. We allowed selfishness and greed to prevail and then one day far in the future the following request is made in the remnants of greatness: Please fix 15 square blocks. Where care, and respect, and safety once reigned. Where young women and men including minors are sexually molested daily, as street vermin feeds off their bodies and gives them drugs. Where drug dealers freely ply their life sucking “Let’s Roll!” trade. Where they retort with brutal

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violence if you break their hideous rules. Where helpless addicts are beaten by the human vermin of the streets. Streets drenched in dejected, dispirited and suffering life. Where the many weak are subjected to human puppetry or they pay dearly. Hope reduced to despair.

No one cares. The City offers words. The Police are not ordered to end the scourge but are given duties that have allowed the city to degrade. We have the finest Police Force in the Country. Give them a Patriotic directive and you will see the finest serve like never before in full pursuit of a goal so noble.

On September 11, 2001 Flight 93 was averted, by American heroes from its deadly course as it crashed in Shanksville, Pennsylvania killing 40 of the finest humans can be.

Let’s live by their example.

Think about that plane for a minute. Imagine these heroes moving forward. They knew they were entering the portal between life and death and they did so with the hearts of “Americans” as they knew they were about to die for the people of the neighborhoods of the greatest land on earth. Todd Beamer made these words holy as he led the charge to save the Capitol on 9/11. An average American just like us said: “Let’s Roll!”

“Decency will be restored to mindsets in the absence of a drug business.”

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Tales from the Vine

by Cassandra Harrington by deborah carpenter

Who Could Possibly Turn Down a Glass of Bubbles?

Geographically limited to a town in France, Champagne is unable to be manufactured or produced in any other location in the world other than Champagne itself.

Similar to the Italian equivalent Prosecco, this means it has an element of speciality to it unlike other sparkling wines. But who exactly created Champagne? Dom Perignon himself of course! A monk in

Champagne, France

when you’re cracking open your new bottle of Champagne.

So how do we drink our beloved beverage?

There are traditionally two types of Champagne glasses, the flute and the coupe glass. the 17th century, Legend has it that the coupe he created Champagne was modelled on Marie wine which was soon Antoinette’s breast shape, popularized by King Louis as an ode to her love of XIV, who loved it so much. the drink. Although there’s But the drink created no evidence of this, it’s King Louis XIV

by Dom Perignon was a still a romantic idea of the light red wine without the decadence associated with the bubbly drink. special fizz that is so widely In reality, the bowl type glass was created in England in the 17th Century and then associated with it today. It wasn’t until the French, in the 18th Century, decided that taken to France. It is with this style of glass that makes it possible to create incredible bubbles were actually good for your health that they were introduced to create the towering glass fountains which look stunning at glamorous events and weddings. effervescent drink. Today, the Dom Perignon brand is a vintage form of Champagne, with rare bottles being considered as collectors’ items, and sold for over $500 each!

There are other far more affordable brands from the Champagne region, such as Moët & Chandon and Veuve Clicquot.

It is estimated that the popular sparkling wine we have today can hold up to approximately 49 million bubbles in a 750ml bottle – that’s a lot of bubbles! This amount of bubbles means Champagne has three times the gas than beer, and the cork can reach speeds up to 40mph if it isn’t popped correctly and safely. So be careful

“Champagne wine was soon popularized by King Louis XIV, who loved it so much.”

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In recent years, the flute glass has become the glass associated with Champagne for its ability to keep the drink cold and bubbling for as long as possible. Loved globally for its light, refreshing taste and exciting fizz, the flute has been designed with scientific reasoning to ensure the drink is enjoyed to its maximum capability.

For example, the bubble trains, called ‘collerettes’, keep darting up the side of your glass whilst you drink your Champagne because the flute glass is shaped in a specific way. As it thins out towards the top of the glass, the reduced surface area retains the carbonation process of the bubbles for longer. The lengthy stem of the glass

“It is estimated that the popular sparkling wine we have today can hold up to approximately 49 million bubbles in a 750ml bottle – that’s a lot of bubbles!”

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is also designed specifically to be held in order for the temperature of the drink to remain unaffected by those holding it. In extreme cases of etiquette, only the base of the glass will be touched.

Champagne gift hampers and glassware, many of which can be personalized to suit any occasion also make the perfect keepsake gift.

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Sports Take

by Mike Lindsley

2020 Buffalo Bills Season Recap We all knew they would be better. Tom Brady was off to Tampa Bay and out of the division. The Jets are the Jets. Miami was a year or two away. The culture was built.

They had been to the playoffs twice. They had drafted well. They had closed the gap with other teams.

But this? 13-3, sweeping the division at 6-0, Josh Allen turning

“The culture was built.

They had been to the playoffs twice.

They had drafted well. They had closed the gap with other teams. But this? ”

into an MVP candidate, prime time monsters, two home playoff wins as the 2-seed and on and on it went? No way. Absolutely no way, as in no way you dip a chicken wing in ranch dressing kind of no way.

But off they went. The Bills won close, they gave up leads and still won late, they overcame a “Hail Murray” to win six straight, eight including playoffs, and set franchise records and league records along the way.

Let’s rip through some season highlights, a key moment, a key game, the MVP on both sides and more in a season recap, plus a quick dive into the offseason and 2021.

Stefon Diggs

Key moment: March 16, 2020.

What’s the next most important thing from a player standpoint after a franchise QB? Getting that quarterback a #1 wide receiver.

The Bills made the best acquisition of the 2019 NFL offseason as GM Brandon Beane sent multiple draft choices, including a 2020 first-round pick, to Minnesota for Stefon Diggs. Instant production.

Instant go-to player. GameJosh Allen changing on all downs and in all formations. Great hands.

You name it, Diggs has it and Diggs did it. 127 receptions and 1,535 yards. Diggs finished as the NFL’s leader in both categories for the 2020 season. He also became the first player in Buffalo Bills history to lead the NFL in receptions and yards in a single season. His receptions and receiving yardage totals were career highs for him.

More boxes checked-off.

Remember when Buffalo was just trying to “break the drought” and make the playoffs? Under Sean McDermott and Brandon Beane, they have now made the playoffs in three of four years. But once the narrative changed and Buffalo became a real threat to make a run in 2020, the Bills had to at least win one playoff game, and that was the goal at the start of the season anyway. Well, they checked that box and checked another by winning two, against Indianapolis and CB Tre White Baltimore respectively, and prior to that checked two more boxes by winning the division and staying consistent in the winner’s circle in prime time football.

Offensive MVP: Josh Allen. Ended up getting MVP votes, two more than Patrick Mahomes. Set single-season team records for completions, yards, touchdown passes and total touchdowns. #17 was sensational. Allen is perfect for Buffalo and will soon have a very large bank account.

Defensive MVP: CB Tre White. The defense overall didn’t have a great year, but they really picked it up in the second half and White was a big reason why. His name wasn’t called a ton during many broadcasts, but that’s because he was doing his job. White collected three interceptions, 11 passes defended and 57 tackles in 2020.

Coaching MVP: Brian Daboll. The NFL Assistant Coach of the Year was brilliant. The offensive coordinator removed plenty of designed runs for Josh Allen and got all the receivers involved at the right times. The Bills were the best offense in the NFL for big stretches thanks to the OC who got even more creative with more weapons added to his offensive playbook. Daboll, who didn’t get a head coaching job in the offseason, is back in 2021, which is enormous for Allen and the entire offense. Consistency in this league is huge. See: Tom Brady-Bill Belichick-ownership-assistant coaches-etc.=20 years of dominance, six rings and nine Super Bowl appearances for the Patriots.

Key game: September 27 vs. Rams. After a 4-yard TD pass from Allen to Diggs early in the second half, the rout was on with Buffalo leading 28-3. But then the Rams scored 29 unanswered points thanks to Buffalo’s careless defense, a bad 3 and out, an Allen

PAGE 19 • March 2021

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upcoming NFL Draft, including #30 overall in the first round. An edge rusher, cornerback opposite White, an offensive lineman and a running back are all areas of need depending on who comes back.

What’s next? Many Bills fans assume that the team should be in the Super Bowl next season. That’s the next logical step, right? Wrong. The reset button gets hit year after year. There are too many variables and injuries and other teams improving and making changes and so much more to just pencil the Bills into the final game. Having said that, Buffalo has gone from the hunter to the hunted in the NFL and is right there after coming one win away from the grandest stage in sports. Now, it’s a matter of plugging and playing and fitting people in with the same coaches and a core of players. One thing is certain. In the NFL, you must have a franchise quarterback, a head coach and a general manager to contend annually. Buffalo has those Brian Daboll key pieces, and for those in Western New York, that is a wagonfumble, Aaron Donald being the best defensive player in football, stupid penalties and circling feeling. more. At 32-28 Los Angeles, this writer and many Bills Mafia members started to whisper Mike Lindsley has “Same Old Bills” to themselves. And then came the first real sign that Josh Allen could been in sports media take the next step. Allen and the offense put together a spectacular 11-play, 75-yard for 20 years and is the drive over 4:15, capped by a 3-yard TD pass to tight end Tyler Kroft with 15 seconds left. host of the ML Sports The Bills won 35-32, beat a Super Bowl contender and moved to 3-0. From there, the Bills Platter and Bills Brawl were built for every level of adversity during the season. This win set the tone.

Podcasts. Follow Salary Cap/NFL Draft. This leads into the final item. The Bills have hard decisions to him on Twitter @ make in the offseason. For example, Beane may have to cut WR John Brown and a MikeLSports. plethora of defensive players so they can sign Matt Milano long-term, pay Allen and restructure contracts like Diggs and Cole Beasley. Also, the Bills have seven picks in the

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Business of Interest

by Nancy Roberts

Ellen Krassowski You might be surprised to learn that insurance is actually an ancient concept. Some scholars suggest that it dates back to pre-history, but certainly if you consulted the Code of Hammurabi in about 1750 BC, you’d find stipulations for spreading the cost of a ship lost at sea. And that, of course, is the basic principle in operation with insurance: when we purchase any policy, the money we put in is pooled so that if and when someone suffers a loss, he can be “made whole” by funds from the (much larger) joint purse. Needless to say, it’s more complicated than that if you really study the subject, but when I spoke with Ellen Krassowski to learn more about her Allstate insurance agency, my key insight was your agent is probably the most important piece of your personal insurance puzzle.

Krassowski’s decision to own an agency wasn’t a sudden career choice, but more of an evolution of opportunities and an affinity for people. She is clearly one of those who enjoys learning, getting to know her clients, and matching them with the products that they need for each stage and situation in their lives. She strongly believes that her primary job is to be there to answer questions, and to be prepared with solid answers.

“I tell people, ask me. Ask me questions, tell me your concerns,” she says. “I will give you answers, or I will find out. I’m available 24/7.”

Krassowski began her involvement in the insurance industry in 2003, when she took a job with the Allstate agency in Oswego at the time. “It was perfect for me at the time,” she says. “I wanted to work part time, and the office was right across the street.”

Ellen Krassowski

“I tell people, ask me. Ask me questions, tell me your concerns,” she says. “I will give you answers, or I will find out. I’m available 24/7.”

Though she was hired as a receptionist, she quickly began to learn the business and was offered an opportunity to get a property casualty license, and soon after that a life insurance license, then became a notary as the agency was doing banking, vehicle loans, and mortgages. She followed her curiosity and willingness to learn, and finally when George Dziados was ready to sell his agency after 30 years in the business, Krassowski was willing to buy.

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covers a wide range of policies, from home and auto to retirement, pet medical, water backup, disability, education savings, and umbrella policies. If you need it, even if you’re not sure whether it exists, ask. She explains that her agency isn’t limited to just Allstate products.

“While Allstate offers quite a range of coverages, we can also offer products from other companies so that we can make sure our clients get what they really need. But I should also share with you that Allstate offers insurance for Uber and Lyft drivers – they’re thinking ahead, and I like that.”

I asked for tips she’d like her clients and potential clients to know. “Take a defensive driving course,” she promptly offered. “They’re online now and can save you on your auto insurance. And the benefits can last up to three years. And don’t forget, you can switch your policies at any time, not just when they’re up for renewal.

“The main thing is, ask questions. Be honest with your agent, let them know your situation, let them know when something changes. Be your own best advocate. We’re here to help our clients stay safe and protected. As I said, you’d rather not have to use insurance, but it’s really good to know it’s there when you need it.”

“I tell my clients to consider umbrella policies. These can cover excess liability, and even take care of things like slander and libel.”

5500 Bartel Road, Ste 4, Brewerton, NY 13029 • 315.676.2334 https://agents.allstate.com/ellen-krassowski-brewerton-ny

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“I kept the office, and the phone number, and worked with George to learn the specifics of his business,” she explains. “And as soon as I was ready to take it over, I continued with more education.” She took intensive training with Allstate and state licensing authorities, and is currently working toward a securities license in addition to her many other qualifications.

I was curious about what types of insurance she would recommend to a client. “That depends,” she answers. “Any time anything changes in your life, you want to let your agent know,” she adds. “If you move from a rental to a house, you add a driver for your car, if you build a shed or buy a snowmobile, these are all things you’ll want to let your agent know so he or she can help you adjust your policies.”

Depending on whether you ride your snowmobile on public land, or plan to take a rider with you from time to time, your policy needs may change. Identity theft is becoming a bigger hazard than ever before. “Many people still don’t know that flood insurance isn’t covered in a standard home-owners policy. You need additional coverage if you might be at risk for flooding,” she explains. “I tell my clients to consider umbrella policies. These can cover excess liability, and even take care of things like slander and libel.”

Part of Krassowski’s marketing is as simple as knowing the people she serves. “This is home,” she says. “I grew up here, so many of my clients are people I went to school with, or the parents of those people. They’re friends as well as clients.”

Another piece of her marketing includes being part of the many activities in and around her home town. “I was scheduled for a bridal show until the pandemic pushed it off for a year,” she says. “People often don’t know that they can get a policy to cover weddings and travel – so if something interferes with your event or your trip, you have some protection.”

Due to COVID, she also had to postpone a cat show she was scheduled to attend, displaying her policies for pet health insurance. A surprisingly useful product, anyone whose pet has suffered a prolonged or complicated illness can tell you that vet expenses can add up.

“You hope you never have to use insurance,” Krassowski says. “But it’s good to know it’s there when you need it.”

Krasssowski’s agency doesn’t handle all forms of insurance – medical being a chief exception. Her agency

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Jazz and more. And in my recent conversation with her, she’s more than excited to have her original material in the works.

Chuck Schiele: How did you get

by Chuck Schiele started in music? How long have you been playing?

Lisa Lee: I started singing and playing guitar around 8 or 9 years of age. I also played piano, organ, violin and any other instrument that I could get my hands on, but I really loved the guitar and still play In normal years, I manage to run into Lisa Lee today. I got started in a band when performing quite a bit. She’s busy, all around the area I was 16 years old. I remember a as one of the clear favorites. The last time I ran into time where I tagged along with Lisa Lee I was on a “couples” date at a sushi joint with my musician boyfriend to a music my good bros, Richie Melito, Phil Smith and our lovely store to buy guitar strings. As we ladies. It’s always nice to be able to catch up with were checking out, the guy at the music pals outside of the green room, so-to-speak. register said, “Oh, wow, is this your Since that time Covid has made its prsence felt and new girlfriend; I bet she can sing.

I haven’t seen very many friends at all. For Lisa Lee Our female singer just quit and this subject becomes a personal one. Nonetheless we have months of gigs booked.” I it remains a temporary one as it all gives way to the said “No”, but at the same time my bigger, more important subject of the fact that she’s ready to rock – boyfriend said, “Yes! she can sing with bookings on the calendar and an original album in the works. and she’s really good”. In reality, I Lisa Lee is hard to miss. She’s the vivacious redhead with the sultry, soulful voice was too terribly shy to sing in front wrapped in a blues tonality. Lisa is know for preforming a wide variety of popular hits from of anyone including my boyfriend. throughout the decades. Adept with a variety of musical genres, Lisa Lee delivers a setlist So I ended up joining a band that night. We traveled up and down the East Coast playing representing Classic Rock, Modern Country, Classic Country, Oldies, Blues, Ballads, Pop, the hotel circuit and clubs. I recall waking up in a hotel not knowing where we were because we traveled so much. It was a lot of fun and a great experience for a teenager.

CS: Wow. What a great story. I’m glad somebody said, “Yes!” And now that you’re more than embedded in the fabric of CNY music, how would you characterize your music?

LL: When I sing at most venues, I cover a wide variety of styles including rock, blues, country, pop, R&B and even some jazz standards. My original music covers many genres as well; I may have a country tune in my head, a funky upbeat song or a slow love song.

Growing up in a house of eight sisters and a Mom who sang, music was always playing in our home and I was exposed to many kinds of music from 1940’s to 60’s and 70’s music.

CS: What are some of the projects you’ve been involved with throughout your career?

LL: The last several years, I’ve been playing a lot of duo and trio gigs, so I missed out when asked to participate in collaborations with fellow musicians because I was so busy with bookings. But this year, as performances have almost come to a halt, I’m ready to be involved.

And it’s aways fun to get to see my fellow musician friends again. Past musical involvements I enjoyed were Ridgestock at The Ridge Tavern, CNY Women In Music, which I created in 2010, and now Gold Dust Gypsies Fleetwood Mac Tribute Band.

CS: It’s been a healthy career for you. What are some of the events or episodes that stand out the most in your mind?

LL: In 2019, I started a Fleetwood Mac tribute band called Gold Dust Gypsies with some of my favorite fellow musicians including Diana

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Jacobs, Ed Gorham, Ben Shearer, SkipShawn Philippon, Dan Morison and Leo, my husband.

This project is something I have wanted to do for a long time because when I was younger, many people told me that I sounded like Stevie Nicks. Before the pandemic, we were looking forward to playing larger venues such as concerts, theaters, ticketed venues, etc.

Our last highlight gig was at the Rome Capitol Theater. In Rome, we were treated like rock stars with our own dressing rooms, food and other perks. We had a professional promo video of that performance made, which is posted on our facebook page. We had a blast! Then, most performances stopped. Now, the Gold Dust Gypsies are looking forward to playing again this April 17 at Average Joe’s in Baldwinsville (and hopefully some others to follow.)

I also have my own band, Lisa Lee Band. In the past, we really enjoyed playing outdoor concerts like Taste of Syracuse, Oswego Harborfest, NYS Fair and hope to be back in these venues in the near future. My duo has performed many times at the VIP room at St. Joseph’s Health Amphitheater for concerts including Steely Dan, Heart, KISS, Janet Jackson, Sheryl Crow and many others.

CS: Musicians have better stories than everybody else.

Tell me a story.

“My mom and I would always end up on the couch singing and harmonizing our favorite songs.”

LL: I was playing a gig on a very hot summer day out in the country. Many people were sitting inside where it was air-conditioned. I’m sure most musicians can relate.

We played for the smokers, a few brave souls who didn’t mind the sweltering heat and a rooster that the venue owned. The gig went well until the rooster strutted up to where we were playing and relieved himself right into our new monitor.

CS: There’s always one...

LL: Right? Then suddenly, a thunderstorm blew in unexpectedly. Some patrons came out from the bar to help us pack up, which was helpful. A big guy lifted one of our new speakers off of the stand, heaved it up over his head and dropped it behind him, bouncing it on the concrete. I felt bad for him; he thought they were really heavy, but they were in plastic enclosures and lightweight. That speaker never did work again.

CS: Ugh. LL: On another occasion, my band was playing to a packed house in Alexandria Bay when people abruptly started leaving the venue in droves. We didn’t know why until we saw and smelled a skunk-sprayed dog that had wandered into the club.

CS: Again. There’s always one...

LL: The stench was overpowering. It was break time after that; the crowd never did come back because the stink lingered the rest of the night.

CS: No doubt that this is the overwhelmingly favorite reason that you’re a singer?

Seriously, what’s your favorite reason for being a singer?

LL: My Mom, Lillian Pease (shout out to my Mom). She always sang around the house when I was growing up. Later, when I was married with kids, when she visited or came to babysit, which was frequently, we would always end up on the couch singing and harmonizing our favorite songs including Your Cheatin’ Heart, You Are My Sunshine, Patsy Cline’s version of Crazy etc. Mom also loved to sing songs that I sang in my first band when I was first starting out. My Mom showed up to every local show we did and sometimes brought a few of my little sisters and nieces along. I really miss those days.

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CS: Beautiful. Thank you for sharing that. What are your thoughts on the CNY Music Scene now that you’re officially “in,” (The dog-skunk story sounds like an official initiation, to me.)

LL: Like most local musicians, I really miss playing out. I’m hoping over the course of the summer and into 2022 we can gradually return to playing our favorite venues again as many venues and musicians are really hurting.

Before the pandemic, the CNY music scene was vibrant and seemed to be growing every year. I loved that you could go out any night of the week and hear great live music as more and more venues were adding live music. Now, I’m sure it’s going to take some time to get that back.

CS: What’s in your future for music as we propel into 2021?

LL: Like most, I’m happy 2020 is behind us! Unfortunately, my husband and I fell ill with COVID-19 in November. I was hospitalized for 8 days and I also had an appendectomy during the time that I had COVID. We both recovered and I’m lucky to have a future at all. During this pandemic, I finally have the time to play guitar again. So I’m looking forward to playing guitar on a few songs on some gigs we have booked for this summer and into the winter months.

I’m also anticipating recording some of my original tunes that have gathered dust through the years. This would be what I look forward to most in 2021 along with performing with the Good Dust Gypsies.

CS: I look forward to that, too. How do we all stay in touch with you and your music?

LL: You can check out our website or like us on facebook.

Lisa Lee Duo,Trio or Band: Website: www.lisaleetrio.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/LisaLeeDuoTrioBand Gold Dust Gypsies Fleetwood Mac Tribute Band: www.facebook.com/golddustgypsyband CS: I’ve enjoyed this chat, Lisa. I’m glad you are well and musically productive! I hope you have a great year.

LL: Thank you, Chuck. Thank you for thinking of me, it really means a lot.

Chuck Schiele, 858.663.9612

Tsha‘hoñ’noñyeñ’dakhwa’

315.498.6813

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Brew Time

the northern German town of Einbeck in the 14th century. From here, the brew eventually migrated its way to Munich where it was adapted into the Bock we know today. Due to the different dialects of German in the northern vs. the southern part of the country, “Einbeck” was pronounced differently in Munich; “ein Bock,” which translates to “billy goat” and thus why labels and advertising motifs of many Bock beers feature goats, and of course how Bock earned its name.

Bock is considered a spring-type beer because it is associated with Lent. Doppelbock, a dark, sweet,

by Kristin Merritt

In like a Lion, Out like a Goat?

March can certainly be a tricky month; Spring is so close but at times feels so far away in CNY this time of year. Regardless, by now we are all longing for warmer days ahead and the ability to emerge from our winter dens and into greenery. Luckily, we don’t have to rely on Mother Nature in order to switch from our winter warmers and stouts to something lighter and more refreshing as the temperatures creep upwards.

A rather traditional style of spring beer would be a Bock. Bock beer is German in origin and there are distinct subcategories that include Maibock, Helles Bock, Heller Bock, Doppelbock, Weizenbock, and Eisbock. This style of beer was first brewed in

“Essentially, it was “liquid bread” due to it’s filling, sweet nature.” heavy, strong Bock that is generally high in alcohol content (7-12%) was traditionally brewed by Franciscan monks near Munich. During the Lenten season, these monks fasted during the Feast of the Holy Father – an 8-day festival at the beginning of April – and the Doppelbock that they brewed and named “Sankt Vaterbier” or “Holy Father beer” was the drink of choice while food was forbidden. Essentially, it was “liquid bread” due to it’s filling, sweet nature. Later on, this monastery’s brewery was sold and purchased by a brewer and the Doppelbock’s popularity swelled.

Of course, not all Bocks are dark and heavy; the Maibock, Helles Bock and Heller Bock are still strong in character, but paler in color and conclude with heavier hopped flavors.

Traditional biergartens brewed these Bocks to usher in spring and warmer weather. It is said that Munich’s Hofbräu brewery created the first Maibock brew that was a twist on the traditional Einbeck brew that has been aforementioned, and in keeping with yearly tradition, the original Hofbräuhaus in Munich taps its first barrel of Maibock during the last week of April to herald in the month of May.

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Eisbock

Eisbock or “ice bock” hearkens from the Kulmbach district of Germany and is created by partially freezing a Doppelbock and removing the water content (ice) in order to further concentrate the flavor and increase the alcohol content, which can range from 9-13%. The resultant brew is dark and rich with prominent flavors of prunes, plums and

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brews a Helles Bock each spring known as Spring Landscape. This beer is created using 100% New York State ingredients including 6-row malted barley with a small amount of lightly kilned malt produced by Hudson Valley Malt, and Willamette and Glacier hops grown by Pedersen Farms. The resulting brew contains bready and toasty characteristics from the malts combined with floral, minty and slightly citric notes from the hops; and at 6.2% ABV, it’s an easy beer to drink.

As with other years’ versions of Spring Landscape the total proceeds of said beer are donated to charity. This year, the worthy recipient will be the Rockland Farm Alliance whose mission is to “conserve farmland in Rockland and beyond by bringing communities together through local, sustainable farming projects and agricultural education programs.” Spring Landscape is set to be released during the first week of March and will be available for purchase throughout New York, New Jersey and Connecticut. So be on the lookout! (I know I will be!)

With the weather and seasonal changes in March, we too are likely to start getting an itch for change, and that clean, crisp, freshness that Spring ushers in and that extends to our palates and what’s in our pint glasses. Cheers to bright Bocks and better days ahead! raisins. Weizenbock is the wheat version of Bock and traditionally utilizes 40-60% wheat instead of 100% barley.

There are both pale and darker versions but both are malt-centric with medium-to-full bodies with the alcohol content ranging from approximately 6-9%.

Likely one of the most popular and widely available Maibock or Helles Bock-style brews is Dead Guy Ale (6.8% ABV) by Rogue Ales out of Newport, OR. Interestingly enough, this brew has actually been around for over 25 years! The beer is a balanced mixture of subtly bitter hops with slightly sweet caramel maltiness finishing clean and dry. If you’re diving head-first into the Bock beer world, this is a definitely tried-and-true brew to start with.

A little closer to home, Industrial Arts Brewing in Garnerville, NY located in the lower Hudson Valley region,

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Exercise & Fitness

by Jennifer Nastasi Guzelak

You Don’t Need a Diet to Lose Weight An estimated forty-five million Americans go on a diet each year, and Americans spend thirty-three billion dollars each year on weight loss products. Yet, nearly twothirds of Americans are overweight or obese.

If you’re one of the forty-five million Americans who plan to go on a diet this year, don’t. Biologically, dieting can lead to unhealthy changes in body composition, hormonal changes, reduced bone density, menstrual disturbances, and lower resting energy expenditure. Mentally, it can leave us feeling depleted, deprived, frustrated, overwhelmed and defeated.

Despite the ever-growing obsession we’ve had with losing weight, our weight continues to increase, our waistlines keep expanding and our health continues to deteriorate. Here’s a sobering statistic. Roughly ninety percent of people who lose a lot of weight eventually regain just about all of it.

If there was one sure way or method by which we could all lose weight and keep it off, the weight loss industry wouldn’t be worth a record seventy-two billion dollars. We’re bombarded with diet and fitness apps, weight loss plans, videos, and hundreds of new

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weight loss books on the shelf at the turn of each calendar year.

It’s easy to get overwhelmed with all of the information out there. Stay away from dairy.

Only eat gluten-free foods.

Carbs are bad! Every time we turn on the television or pick up a magazine, there is a new “guaranteed to lose weight” diet for us to try, a new health recommendation, or an advertisement for the latest miracle weight-loss pill. It’s not really all that surprising that we as modern-day consumers have no clue who to trust in the health and fitness space.

There’s a very important point that I need to make here. You can’t take the average person who is used to eating whatever they want, whenever they want, and tell them they can now only eat certain foods, at specific times, and only this much of it at each meal. If you have ever found yourself saying “I give up! I have no idea what to eat or where to start, so I’m just going to eat whatever I want.” – this is probably about the time you would say it.

Why don’t we skip the food scales, measuring cups and the half dozen weight loss apps and just focus on creating a healthy lifestyle. The process of losing a few pounds

“Yet, nearly two-thirds of Americans are overweight or obese.”

continued on pg 28

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Don’t Need a Diet continued from pg 26

Learn to Manage Stress

Stress can significantly impact your ability to maintain a healthy weight. It can also prevent you from losing weight. Whether it’s the result of high levels of the stress hormone cortisol, unhealthy stress-induced behaviors, or a combination of the two, the link between stress and weight gain is glaring. Incorporate stress-relief strategies into your daily life. Whether you enjoy yoga or you find solace in reading a good book, try adding simple stress relievers like taking a deep breath, listening to music, or going on a walk into your daily routine. Doing so can reduce your cortisol levels, helping you manage your weight.

Get a Gym Membership

Join a gym. You will have access to amenities that are for every lifestyle and fitness journey. You will also feel like you are part of a community of individuals whom have similar goals. This will not only help you stay focused, but it’s also a great way to stay motivated.

Get Your Zzzs

Don’t go overboard with serving sizes doesn’t have to be a stressful one! Keep it simple. The easier something is to follow, the better. Here are a few tips to help you get started.

Make Healthier Choices

Replace the food items that you eat on a regular basis with healthier alternatives. If you use creamer in your coffee every morning, try replacing it with skim or almond milk. If you eat peanut butter, try switching to natural peanut or almond butter.

It’s better to consume too much of a “better choice” than it is to fill up on empty calories with little or no nutritional value.

In Conclusion:

Eat Smaller Meals

Designate specific times of the day; each day to eat. The rule of thumb is to eat four to five small meals a day, three to four hours apart. This will not only speed up your metabolism, but it will also allow your body to process the food you fuel it with more quickly.

Try to eat around the same time each day and do your best to not snack in between meals.

Know What a Serving Size Is

Learn to read food labels and know what a serving size is! Eat REAL food. The fewer ingredients something has the better. If you can’t get it out of the mouth you shouldn’t be putting it in your mouth!

Just don’t go overboard with this last step.

If you find yourself counting the number of almonds or grapes you’re about to eat, you’ve taken it a little too far.

Lastly, you need to sleep. I think this last point often gets pushed to the bottom of our priority list. There are plenty of studies that suggest that sleep deprivation is a contributing factor to our ever-growing waistlines. Research shows that when we are tired, we crave high fat and sugary snacks in anticipation of a quick energy boost. Unfortunately, this will be counterproductive and will only put our daily calorie consumption over the top.

Natural peanut butter

You don’t need the latest fad diet, best-selling book, diet-shake, magic pill, or an expensive piece of exercise equipment to make things happen! You just need to focus on making healthy changes that you can turn into life-long habits.

Get back to basics! Eat REAL food, get a good night’s rest, increase your daily activity, and understand that losing weight is not going to happen overnight.

Don’t stress over it, don’t over think it and don’t make it harder than it is! Be patient, believe in the process and most importantly believe in YOU. Good luck!

I have been a personal trainer for over eighteen years and I absolutely love what I do. I honestly feel that I have one of the best jobs out there! The most rewarding part of my profession is helping one of my clients succeed at reaching their personal fitness goals. Making a difference in someone’s life makes it all worthwhile. I am currently certified by the National Sports Conditioning Association, Apex Fitness Group, and the International Sports Science Association.

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2020

March 1-4

Mojo & The Bayou Gypsies • 6-8 pm View Arts Center, Syracuse Virtual evenT

March 1, 8, 15, 22, 29

Cam Caruso Facebook Live • 7-9 pm CNY Alive, Syracuse Virtual evenT

March 4

Brett Falso & Roadhouse Prophets • 6-9 pm The Sandbar Grill, Bernards Bay

March 5 & 7

Berwick Fiddle Consort: Ayont Yon Glen • 7:30-8:30 pm Syracuse, Virtual evenT

March 6

Almost Queen • 8 pm The State Theatre of Ithaca, Ithaca

March 6

Ronnie Milsap • 8 pm Turning Stone Casino, Verona

March 6

Lee Dewyze • 7:30 pm The Listening Room at 443 Cafe & Lounge, Syracuse

March 6

Not Fade Away • 7:30 pm The Oncenter Carrier Theater, Syracuse

March 7

Roadhouse Prophets • 2-5 pm Skaneatelas Brewery, Skaneatelas

March 12

Paul Davie • 5-8 pm Colloca Winery, Fair Haven

March 13

Paul Davie • 6-10 pm Captain Jack’s, Sodus Point

March 18

Paul Davie • 6-9 pm

WhirlinDiscDJs.com

March 20

Thru March 16

March 15

Crouse Hinds Concert Theater, Syracuse

Schweinfurth Memorial Art Center, Auburn Virtual event

Liverpool Public Library, Liverpool

Music for Healing • 7:30 pm

March 24

Rain: A Tribute to the Beatles • 7:30 pm

Watercolor Explorations

Thru April 3

March 27

What Happened: Luis Arnias, Simon Liu, and Zhou Tao Exhibition • 7:30 pm-12:00 am

Gilded Club, Syracuse

Everson Community Plaza

The Stanley, Utica

Roadhouse Prophets • 5-9 pm

March 31

Roadhouse Prophets & TJ Sacco • 6-9 pm Fast Eddie’s, Syracuse

March 31

Shawn Colvin • 7 pm Center for the Arts of Homer, Homer

April 1

KennaDee Dominick’s Sports Tavern, Scriba

April 2

Southside Johnny & The Asbury Jukes • 8-10pm Center for the Arts of Homer, Homer

April 18 Watsky

The Westcott Theater, Syracuse

May 14

Agnostic Front & Sick of it All • 7pm The Lost Horizon, Syracuse

Art

March 4, 5, 7, 11

DEADLOCKED AND LOADED: Disarming America ArtRage Gallery, Syracuse Virtual event

March 10

Thru May 9

The Floating Bridge: Postmodern and Contemporary Japanese Ceramics Everson Museum of Art, Syracuse

Events March 4

Syracuse Stories: A Conversation with Author Elizabeth Letts • 6:30-7:30 pm Syracuse Stage, Syracuse Virtual evenT

March 5

Meatballs, Traditional AND Ricotta, with Marinara • 5:30pm Vince’s Gourmet Imports, N. Syracuse

March 5-7

Nature’s Ninjas Live Show MOST, Syracuse Virtual evenT

March 6 & 7

Syracuse City Ballet Presents Cinderella • 2 & 6 pm Crouse Hinds Theatre, Syracuse Virtual evenT

March 11, 18, 25

American Character: A Discussion with Tom Henry • 7-8:30 pm Liverpool Public Library, Liverpool

Jewelry Class: Emerald Isle Necklace • 6:30-7:30pm

Meiers Creek, Cazenovia

Onondaga Free Library, Syracuse Virtual event

March 20

March 11

Symphoria, Syracuse Virtual evenT

Everson Museum of Art, Syracuse Virtual event

Beethoven & Mozart • 7:30 pm

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Virtual Pottery & Pour • 6-8pm

March 13

Scars N’ Stripes St. Paddy’s Bash Under The Burritt Motors Pavilion Sharkey’s Bar and Grill, Liverpool

March 14

John Edward Crouse Hinds Theatre, Syracuse

What’s Cookin’: Soups & Stews • 7 pm

March 15

Homemade Fettuccine, Ravioli and Tortellini • 5:30pm Vince’s Gourmet Imports, N. Syracuse

March 16-18

Riverdance, 25th Anniverary Show • 7:30 pm The Oncenter, Syracuse

March 19-21

Atrophy Escape Ward Interactive Escape Room Experience • 7:30-10:30 pm Cayo Industrial, Rome

March 23

On the Future of New Plays: Panel Discussion • 6 pm Syracuse Stage, Syracuse Virtual evenT

March 25

Pasta for a Purpose • 5-8 pm Drumlins Country Club, Syracuse

March 25

Growing Up in a Frank Lloyd Wright House • 7-8 pm Petit Branch Library, Syracuse Virtual evenT

March 27

DLG x Curtain Up Backyard Brewfest • 3-8:30 pm ONCO Fermentations, Inc., Tully

Thru March 29

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Sports March 1

SU Men’s Basketball • 7 pm vs. North Carolina

March 3

SU Men’s Basketball • 5 pm vs. Clemson

March 12

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March 20

SU Men’s Lacrosse • 1-4 pm vs Hofstra Virtual evenT

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Computers & the Web

by Nancy Roberts

Cope or Create Difficult times result in two impulses: coping, and coming up with something new.

The first impulse is an inward path, and can be seen in how we have adapted our lives to the reality of a dangerous virus. Masks, distance, limiting socialization, hand washing stations and at-home schooling are all methods we now use to manage an unseen enemy by mainly limiting our options to minimize our exposure.

The second impulse is an extension of the story we covered in this column last month: what to do about at-odds online conversations and the platforms that support them? Cope, as in, limit your online communications, or create: come up with something (sort of) new.

Thirty years ago, our means of public discourse did not, of course, include social media. Though technically launched in about 1997 with something called SixDegrees, the 2003 advent of MySpace was probably the first most of us were aware that there was a way of presenting oneself to the world, and “making friends” with unknown others, who ideally shared your interests and ideas. Initially, before the “social media” label had been invented, MySpace was a place where bands and performers could create a profile page and let fans and followers know what they were doing, where they would be playing, and when an album or movie would be available. This early history doesn’t

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do justice to the “geek spaces” known as BBS’s, or bulletin boards, where subscribers would send real time chats about games, programming, technology, and other esoterica favored by the particular board. But while popular, they never achieved the status of the social media that we have come to know and loathe/love. MySpace, with its quick adoption by high schoolers and its permissive environment in which nudity and provocative posts were rampant, sealed its fate as a generally desirable place to be showcased – and it has since adjusted its profile as a place for up-and-coming talents in the performing and visual arts.

In 2004 the gamechanger that is Facebook was introduced. In one of the more brilliantly played launches, “The Facebook” (as it was known then) was available only to Harvard MySpace students that year. Believe it or not, LinkedIn also was introduced that year, though its adoption has been much slower and more targeted. Facebook continued to brand itself as “exclusive” by adding only other Ivy college students, then a select number of additional schools, then graduates of those schools, age groups, and finally was available to everyone.

By limiting who could and could not play in the Facebook sandbox, it offered a whiff of snobbery that made it more desirable than it might have seemed at first.

But obviously the real benefit to Facebook was connecting with friends and family that you might not otherwise have tracked down, or had the time to contact. Photos and events could be easily shared, and above all, while not really acknowledged openly, it was a way to create your alter-ego. Your photo portrayed you as always young, fit, and desirable; your activities were the most fun, your food the most delicious, your observations the most clever and inspired.

“The disturbing development in many social media platforms is their movement that aims to use their reach to restrict use by those they feel don’t portray the “correct” ideas and attitudes.”

Originally Facebook was only offered to Harvard students

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In 2005 YouTube opened a “tv channel” for anyone to share stories. I still recall getting messages from friends and co-workers with a link to a funny or inspiring YouTube video.

Remember “Candy Mountain” with Charlie the unicorn? So do I. I still laugh. Aside from funny videos and clips, you would share baby’s first words, a wedding, a beautiful sunset or snow storm, or a clever animals video.

Can you believe Twitter has been around for 15 years? Initially limited to 140 characters (based on the 160 character limit of an SMS text message), Twitter was kind of fun in its early days. It was chatty and often silly, pithy and clever. Now 280 characters, users overcome that problem of limited words with Twitterisms and a simple directory of 1/3, 2/3, 3/3 for longer messages, and the pattern of “tweeting” is hardly benign any more.

In 2010 Instagram launched as a visual imagery sharing platform, but like MySpace before it, quickly became driven by younger – and often raunchier – users. TikTok, again a way for very clever creators to make fun, sometimes fantastic short videos, has also been somewhat limited in its universal adoption by the nature of many of the TikToks people feel compelled to make, focusing as they do on body parts and Instagram “models.”

The recent, definitely disturbing development in many social media platforms is their exploitation by people, organizations, and movements that aim to use their reach to influence opinions, spread gossip and if not falsehoods then at least dramatizations of events, and restrict their use by those they feel don’t portray the “correct” ideas Facebook, a way to create an alter-ego and attitudes. Last month, we dealt with the evolution of social media platforms as a hybrid information distribution system and the difficulty of knowing how to legally manage such a hybrid with the laws as currently written. Now we’ll take a look at how entrepreneurs are aiming at offering users an alternative.

What has happened is, in a way, the good old DIY response to a platform trying to sort out its own best interests and those of its users: don’t like what we’re saying or how we’re saying it? Fine, we’ll create another platform that permits “the conversation” to be conducted on our terms. This would seem to be classic “American” ingenuity at its finest – simply work around the problem.

And thus there was Parler.

Parler is just one of a myriad of upstart social platforms that aim to open online speech to those Facebook or Twitter seek to silence, for good or ill. I started getting my first chat invitations to services like Signal, WeChat and WhatsApp, ostensibly for the enhanced security they offered above Facebook’s Messenger, and the generic Messenger text app, but probably in reality also to offer anonymity to users who wanted to communicate via apps and social media but feared their opinions or messages would create difficulties for them. Not too long into the “social media wars,” Parler was no longer available as an app for iPhone or Android. Other social media start-ups like Gab and Rumble took aim at Twitter and YouTube respectively, but when you look at the numbers, it’s clear that ramping up to become any kind of competition to these giants is a Herculean task. Facebook has 2.23 billion (yes, billion) MAUs (monthly active users). 65 million businesses use Facebook, and 6 million of them advertise. YouTube is

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in second place with 1.9 billion MAUs, and believe it or not, WhatsApp, a combo text, sharing, and centralized messaging application, owned by Facebook, is in third place with 1.5 billion MAUs. By way of comparison, Twitter comes in 12th.

Needless to say, these numbers are changing all the time, and were current as of early 2020 – new stats are being published every month.

Worldwide, the Chinese are the most frequent users of social media across all forms, from messaging and VoIP to social sharing apps like TikTok. But with the influence they now have to engage users, and influence behavior and attitudes, who uses what and how they promote and limit conversations, will continue to be important to more than just marketers in both the near, and likely the distant, future.

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Golf by article city

How to Play Indoor Mini Golf The Beginners Guide

Indoor Mini Golf

Indoor mini golf or Putt putt, the name the game is famously known as a small sibling of the world-renowned game, golf. Miniature golf uses a smaller version of a golf club known as a putter hence the name putt putt.

Invented between the late 19th century and the early 20th-century, miniature golf ball has grown greatly with the crop up of mini golf courses; training courses and actual playing fields, mini golf tournaments and professional players who have taken the sport as a career. Most recently mini golf has evolved from being played on outside courses and has become an indoor sport graced with glow in the dark lights thus bringing color to the game especially when played at night.

Away from the history and growth of the sport, let us play some miniature golf. Just like in the Jack Nicklaus game, miniature golf’s main aim is to get the golf ball inside a hole with the least strokes possible. You need to select a putter that’s approximately the height from your feet to your waist. At this length, you are halfway to becoming a master of putt-putt.

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How to Hold a Putter

Similar to normal golf the second key to mini golf is the grip. This is just the way you hold the putter to ensure your stroke directs the ball to exactly where you want it to go.

Remember you need to get the ball into the hole with as few strokes as possible. The hand that goes first for a perfect grip is your dominant hand, that is to say, the hand that is the ‘go to’ hand whenever you are required to use them. Stretch out your hand to the putter and have a shake – hand action to the putter’s handle. The second hand comes after the first but place it behind on the handle. This kind of grip is known as the backhand grip. Other forms of grip are the forehand grip and the overlap grip.

The two are not most commonly used however are important to know since different people may have a preference for one grip to another basically because of the body structure. The forehand is similar to the backhand but has the hands further apart from each other. It utilizes upper body strength leaving less effort to the hands as compared to the backhand. Lastly is the overlap. Here the dominant hand is held under the less dominant hand. This grip focuses a lot of the grip power in keeping the putter in control and is the least popular among professional mini golf players.

Posture for the Swing

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Having mastered the grip you are almost ready to start playing. Place the ball in front of you and make sure the ball and the tip of your toes make a triangle shape in relation to each other. This is known as the stance. Your feet should be approximately 30 centimeters from each other pointed dead ahead. The stance is used to achieve a good swing without you losing your balance and consequently having a bad swing.

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but remember the acres of clear field in golf are not here so such a swing may lead to damage considering you are playing indoors. Miniature golf utilizes a putting stroke; not much effort is required. The putter should be swung but never going above your waist. At times the smaller the strokes the fewer the number of times you need to get the ball into the hole.

Test Run

Having these skills practiced you are ready for the course. Have the ball at the beginning of the green. Usually, it’s demarcated using a black marking where you place your ball. If it’s a competition, each one in the game should choose a different colored ball to avoid confusion during the game. Everyone takes their first stroke.

The person whose ball is closest to the hole gets the next swing. If the ball has not entered the hole by the sixth swing then it’s the person with the next closest ball to take a swing.

While playing indoor miniature golf you may find yourself in a position where the ball comes to rest next to a wall. According to the rules you are allowed to move the ball two club head lengths for a suitable swing Generally, miniature golf is a wonderful game to share with the family on a weekend.

The rules are quite simple and victory doesn’t largely depend on physical strength, therefore, young ones and grandparents don’t feel at a disadvantage participating.

Weather or time is not also a factor when playing the game considering it is indoors adding to the fun. On the advantages, miniature golf can also be improvised using old cups for the holes and a small putter. Pillows and chairs can act as hazards to make the game more challenging. By keeping score the outdoor experience can be mimicked with equally as much or even more fun.

“Mini golf can be an indoor sport graced with glow in the dark lights thus bringing color to the game.”

In the words of Jack Nicklaus “setting up correctly gives you a good chance of hitting a reasonable shot even if you make a mediocre swing”. The further away the feet are from each other increases stability but consequently increases the force needed for that pendulum movement to get the ball rolling.

Next comes the aim. The putter has a line at the top. This line is known as the aim line.

It assists in telling you the direction in which the ball will roll after your swing. Therefore the aim line should always point to the hole, thus the ball will roll in that same direction.

Make sure the putter lines up horizontally with the ground before a shot is taken.

Taking the Swing

Finally the swing. For a novice, it would be tempting to have a Tiger Woods swing

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Now P l ay i n g

by BRIAN MILLER

NOW

TABLE

PLAY

ING

HOPP

ING

Music Award-season is finally upon us in the cinematic world, and even though the ceremonies will look much different than they have in the past, I am still looking forward to celebrating the outstanding achievements from this complicated year in film. Though there are always going to be question marks surrounding certain nominees, mainly in the form of unfathomable snubs (Delroy Lindo not receiving a Golden Globe nomination for his electric performance in DA 5 BLOODS, for example), I’m not sure that I have ever been more puzzled by a nominee than I am right now.

For reasons I can’t possibly begin to comprehend, MUSIC, which was written, directed, and produced by Sia, received Golden Globe nominations for Best Film (Comedy or Musical) and Best Actress (Comedy or Musical.)

If you haven’t heard of MUSIC yet, rest assured that it is, at best, a tragically misguided and woefully puzzling attempt to explore the complexities of a young girl with autism.

At its worst, it is an unwatchable, offensive, and unfathomably awful piece of filmmaking that is, quite honestly, one of the worst movies I have ever seen.

MUSIC has been a source of controversy from its inception. Sia, the popular singer/ songwriter who has dazzled audiences with her beautiful music videos “Chandelier”, “Elastic Heart,” and “Born Yesterday”, set out to tell the story of Music (played by Sia’s

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muse and artistic stand-in Maddie Ziegler) a young girl afflicted with autism who sees the world and internalizes her feelings in the form of elaborate song and dance. Unable to communicate verbally, her mind processes emotions and thoughts as sugary, brightly lit, carefully choreographed dance sequences.

Much of the controversy surrounding MUSIC was the choice to have a neurotypical performer, Ziegler, in the title role. The failure of this feature cannot be laid at the feet of Ziegler, who, starring in her first major role, executes her motions as directed.

Unfortunately, this film, allegedly, is about inclusion and acceptance, yet fails to feature the very individuals that the production is meant to celebrate. Furthermore, a central plot point revolves around restraining of Music when she becomes agitated, which caused such an outcry within the autism community that Sia pledged to have these sequences removed, yet as this article goes to print, the scenes are still included in the version currently streaming on Amazon. Sia has attempted to justify these mystifyingly misguided decisions in multiple interviews, yet has done far more harm than good. Her attempt to defuse the controversies surrounding the project has been a lesson in how NOT to handle a crisis, from offering haphazard explanations in her casting decisions to deleting her social media accounts, it has been a complete disaster at every turn.

Controversies aside, MUSIC is a confounding, incoherent mess of a movie that wastes the considerable talents at its disposal. Music (Ziegler) lives with her grandmother, Millie (Mary Kay Place) in an apartment in New York City. Millie has set up a routine that allows for Maddie Ziegler as Music Music to experience freedoms in the form of walks and trips to the library. There are many folks in the neighborhood that pitch in and follow her throughout her journey, ensuring her safety and comfort. When her grandmother dies, Music’s quirky, drug-dealing sister Zu (Golden Globe nominee Kate Hudson) shows up to get in on the inheritance.

Instead, she becomes the reluctant guardian Music’s sister Zu played by Kate Hudson of her sister. Largely

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unable to cope with her own life, let alone taking care of someone else, Zu forges a relationship with Ebo (Leslie Odom) a former boxer who already has an established bond with the young girl.

There are a number of other confounding subplots that come and go without any type of reasoning, and through it all, there are the song and dance sequences previously referenced.

Though these are just as baffling as the scenes surrounding them, due to Ziegler’s immense talent and Sia’s unique vision, they offer brief respite from the forced and faulty drama that comprises this ill-conceived story. There is no denying Ziegler’s talent, and these moments allow her to shine. Unfortunately, they do little to tackle the complexities of autism, and even seem to belittle the plight of those afflicted.

It’s as if Music is being “healed” by the power of song and dance, though the film had given up exploring her as a person long ago. Despite the title, the movie ends up being much more about Zu and her struggles with

“Controversies aside, MUSIC is a confounding, incoherent mess of a movie that music wastes the considerable talents RAT ED: PG-13 RUN TIME: 1h 47min at its disposal.”

addiction and crime, forcing Music to become a supporting character in her own film.

I truly believe that Sia had good intentions when taking on this passion project, and though I’m not sure how well the final product mirrored her original vision, I have a hard time believing this was the result she had been yearning for. When the very community she had set out to entertain and enlighten is lambasting the filmmaker for virtually every decision, it’s hard to fathom how MUSIC was ever released, let alone garnered the Golden Globe nominations it certainly didn’t deserve.

MUSIC- F (Now streaming on Amazon.)

GENRE: Drama, Musical STARRING: Kate Hudson, Leslie Odom Jr., Maddie Ziegler DIRECTORs: Sia Writers: Sia

GRADE: F

Singer/songwriter, Sia

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THIS MONTH’S

from Lauren Brown

Cedar-Planked Salmon Ingredients 2 (12- to 14-inch) untreated cedar planks 1/3 cup vegetable oil 1 1/2 tbsp. rice vinegar 1/4 cup green onion, chopped (plus additional for garnish)

1 tsp. sesame oil 1/3 cup soy sauce 1 tbsp. fresh ginger root, grated 1 tsp. garlic, minced 2 (1 1/2-lb.) salmon fillets, skin removed

Directions Step 1 • Soak cedar planks in warm water at least 1 hour.

Step 2 • Stir together vegetable oil, rice vinegar, green onions, sesame oil, soy sauce, ginger root and garlic in a shallow baking dish or bowl that’s large enough to hold fillets.

Add salmon, turning to coat, then marinate, covered, at least 15 minutes and up to 1 hour.

Step 3 • Preheat an outdoor grill to medium heat. Warm planks on grate until they start to smoke and crackle, 3 to 4 minutes.

Step 4 • Transfer salmon to planks and discard marinade. Cover grill and cook until salmon flakes with a fork, 8 to 18 minutes.

Prep Time: 1 hour, 15 min.

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Servings: 6

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