Author: Courtney Kless

February may be a short month, but there is still plenty to celebrate. One way families can do that is through books. Karen Notte, the early literacy coordinator at the Fairmount Community Library, shares her picks for some of this month’s holidays. For Chinese New Year (Feb. 1) Chinese New Year by Katie Marsico Children can learn about the history and traditions of Chinese New Year in this non-fiction book. Maisy’s Chinese New Year by Lucy Cousins Maisy and her friends celebrate Chinese New Year with fireworks, a dragon dance, and more. For Valentine’s Day (Feb. 14) A Valentine for…

Now that winter is in full swing, are you suffering from cabin fever? I know I am. Get some fresh air – and learn about animals – at the Rosamond Gifford Zoo. Located in Burnet Park, the zoo was founded in 1914, and houses more than 200 different species, according to its website, ranging in size from poison dart frogs to Asian elephants. Tickets cost $9 for adults ($5 if you visit during Snow Leopard Day in January and February), and can be purchased online or at the door. This was my third time visiting the zoo. We started with…

The start of a new year is the perfect time to reduce clutter in your home. And the benefits of doing so are numerous. “The biggest one I would say is reduced stress,” said Liz Bremer, a certified professional organizer and the owner of Put it Simply Organizing in Manlius. “You are saving time by not spending time looking for things. You’re saving money by not buying things that you already have. It improves relationships. I’ve had clients say that getting organized has saved their marriage. Being more efficient. All of these things are great.” Read on for Bremer’s tips…

December has always been one of my favorite months of the year. I love grabbing a cup of hot chocolate and driving around to look at holiday lights – a tradition that dates back to the early days of my relationship with my husband. Our newest go-to spot is Lights on the Lake. Held annually at Onondaga Lake Park, the popular holiday show features 300 displays (including its newest additions, a holiday dragon, a winter skyline, and an 18-foot smart light tree) – all stretched across two miles. A total of 56,378 vehicles drove through Lights on the Lake during…

Cedarvale Maple Syrup Company Inspired by a field trip to a local producer, Michael Spicer began making his own maple syrup when he was just 11 years old. He would eventually take over Cedarvale Maple Syrup Company in 2019. Family Times recently talked to Spicer about the company’s roots, its products, and the process for producing maple syrup. This interview was edited for length and clarity. 1. Can you start by telling me a little about the history behind Cedarvale Maple Syrup Company? The company originated in 1977, and it was started by Karl Wiles. His family had some land,…

I have always loved visiting museums. Whether they focus on history or science or art (or some combination of all three), it’s always been one of my favorite ways to treat myself. My latest visit took me to the Everson Museum of Art in downtown Syracuse. The Everson’s space on Harrison Street first opened in 1968. It is “a museum of firsts,” said Kristin Sheehan, director of communications. “They were the first museum ever designed by [internationally-acclaimed architect] I.M. Pei. They were the first to create a docent program. The first to start collecting American art.” Today, the Everson houses…

Halloween can be one of most exciting nights of the year for children – but it can also be one of the most dangerous. Have a safer holiday with these tips from the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office: Before you leave the house Give your child a flashlight or glow stick to carry or add reflective tape to their costume. That way, they can be seen more easily by passing cars. Also make sure their costume doesn’t block their vision – and that they can walk in it without tripping. Face paint is a good alternative to a mask. Remind your…

Fall has arrived in Central New York – and with it comes a variety of family-friendly activities. Whether you’re looking for a scare – or something a little less terrifying – you’ll find something for all ages in our fall activities guide. Please note: Visit each website for more information about current COVID-19 guidelines. Haunted Attractions CMC’s Haunted House – Run by families from the CMC Dance Company, this haunted attraction features a barn and an outdoor trail. A “no scare option” is available for all ages. Best for: Children over the age of five. Where: 6092 Route 31, Cicero. When:…

The Syracuse Crunch will kick off their 28th season this month – and, for the first time since March of 2020, fans will fill the stands of Upstate Medical University Arena. Family Times recently talked to Jim Sarosy, the team’s chief operating officer, about what you can expect when attending a game this season. This interview was edited for length and clarity. 1. During the 2020/21 season, the Syracuse Crunch played 16 home games without fans. How does it feel to have fans back in the arena this year – and to be playing a full schedule? It’s exhilarating, it…

Apples – and cider – have always been one of my favorite parts of fall. So, what better way to treat myself then a visit to Beak & Skiff Apple Orchards? For the second year in a row (and for the fourth time since 2015), Beak & Skiff was recently named the country’s top apple orchard in a USA Today poll. It offers something for all ages: u-pick apples, a bakery and general store with a variety of apple-based treats, a kids’ area, and, for those 21 and over, a tasting room. We started by picking apples. Visitors must take…