Author: Courtney Kless
Courtney Kless is the Editor in Chief of Family Times. Courtney is originally from Maryland. She earned her Master’s degree in Magazine, Newspaper and Online Journalism from Syracuse University. Courtney began her career as a sports journalist, then spent several years working in higher education, before joining the company in August 2019. She enjoys traveling, reading and hiking, and recently adopted a Labrador Retriever, Bailey.
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…
History has always fascinated me. I spent the first part of my childhood living in Rochester, and one of my favorite things to do was take a boat ride on the Erie Canal. I recently found a place where I could relive this memory – and treat myself. Open year-round, the Liz and Dave Beebe Camillus Erie Canal Park was first established in 1972. Today, its grounds feature more than 14 miles of trails, a section of the Old Erie Canal, and several landmarks, including Culver 59 and a replica of a lockhouse. Visitors can explore the park by foot…
With the school year soon coming to an end, you may find yourself looking for ways to continue your child’s learning this summer. Subscription boxes are one option. From coding and cooking to travel and arts and crafts, you’ll find something for every interest (and age group) on this list – at an affordable price. BitsBox – Is your child interested in coding? With BitsBox, they can learn how to create their own app – no experience necessary. Once it’s complete, the app can be viewed on a phone, computer, or tablet. Ages: 6-12. Cost: Starts at $16.95/month. More information:…