Author: Courtney Kless

Local students and teachers aren’t the only ones planning to return to the classroom this fall. Since 1972, members of Peace Inc.’s Foster Grandparent Program have been helping children overcome social, emotional and academic obstacles. Family Times recently talked to Beth O’Hara, director of senior services for Peace Inc., about the program’s roots and its impact in the classroom – and beyond. This interview was edited for length and clarity. 1. How did the Foster Grandparent Program first begin? How has it grown and expanded since then? The Foster Grandparent Program is a federally funded program out of AmeriCorps. Peace…

Did you know there is a Guinness World Record holder right here in Central New York? Treat yourself to a round of miniature golf – and play the world’s longest hole – at Shipwreck Amusements. Located in Cortland, Shipwreck Amusements’ grounds feature paintball, bounce houses, an arcade, a treasure chest gem dig, and two miniature golf courses: a glow-in-the-dark indoor course and a pirate-themed outdoor course. A single game on either course costs $9 for adults – or you can play both for $16. We chose the outdoor option. Various pirates and nautical-themed items were spread around the course, and…

WonderWorks Syracuse Adds New Earthquake Exhibit WonderWorks Syracuse has another new addition. Requested by local educators, Good Vibrations opened in August, and explores the importance of the Tuckaleechee Caverns. The caverns, which are located in Townsend, Tennessee, are able detect earthquakes and seismic activity around the world. “We love that teachers are the inspiration behind this new exhibit,” said Jon Cascella, general manager for WonderWorks Syracuse, in a press release. “We are happy to provide people with a way to learn more science, and it’s great to be able to share the important work done at the Tuckaleechee Caverns.” For more…

This month, students around Central New York will return to the classroom – some for the first time since the pandemic first closed area schools in March of 2020. Family Times recently talked to three local school districts about their preparations for the 2021/22 school year, what students can expect when they return to the classroom, and how parents can help ease the transition to in-person learning. Please note: This information was up-to-date at the time of publication. Auburn Enlarged City School District Superintendent Jeff Pirozzolo said there were two pieces to the district’s preparations for the 2021/22 school year.…

After setting an attendance record in 2019, the New York State Fair returns to Syracuse later this month – with a few changes. Here is everything you need to know about this year’s event: Dates and hours This year’s fair will be the longest yet, running from Aug. 20 to Sept. 6 – a total of 18 days. It will be open daily from 11 a.m. – 11 p.m. (except Labor Day, when the hours are 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.). Daily admission This year, tickets will cost $3 per person (down from $10 in 2019). For all 18 days…

Expectant mothers make many decisions during their pregnancy – what to name their baby, if they should find out the sex, if they want a natural birth, to name a few. But what about hiring a doula? Doulas are trained individuals that offer everything from educational classes and labor support to postpartum care, and there is a team right here in Central New York. Family Times recently talked Christine Herrera, one of the founders of CNY Doula Connection, about the importance of a doula, their role before, during and after childbirth, and the inspiration behind her business. This interview was…

Maybe it’s the crack of the bat, the excitement following a hit or a run scored, or the smell of popcorn and hotdogs as you walk around the stadium, but to me, there is no better way to spend a summer evening than watching a baseball game. My husband and I did exactly that one weekend in late July. The Syracuse Mets, the Triple-A affiliate of the New York Mets, returned to the field in May after a one-year pause due to COVID-19. Before the start of the season, it completed $25 million in stadium renovations, adding new seats, seating…

Are you planning to go back to work after your baby is born? With so many childcare options out there, finding the right fit may seem overwhelming. Here are a few things you should keep in mind throughout the process. When should you begin your search? That all depends on the age of your child. If you are looking for childcare for an infant, in many cases, you will need to begin your search before your baby even arrives. “Infants are the hardest spot because you’re limited; you can only have eight infants per classroom,” said Joshua LaGrow, Executive Director…

Miss Military Star has two mottos: “We help those who have helped us” and “We shine for our heroes.” Since 2017, the community service-based pageant has been giving back to veterans and active military members around the state – and beyond. Family Times recently talked to New York State Director Jennifer DeCaro about the inspiration behind Miss Military Star, the pageant itself, and what she sees in the future for the organization. This interview was edited for length and clarity. 1. Can you start by telling me a little about the history behind Miss Military Star New York, and Miss…

Summer is the perfect time to explore the many parks that Central New York is home to. One offers a unique way to explore its grounds – horseback. Located in Fabius, Highland Forest – dubbed the “Adirondacks of Central New York” – is home to more than 20 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. From May to October, the county park also partners with Highland Outfitters to offer guided horseback rides for those ages 5 and up – no experience is necessary. For a group ride, the cost is $40 per person. This was only…