Central New York Real Estate Blog » Community Events

Thornden Park Chili Bowl Festival – February 18th

Sarah — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 01:42:03 +0000

In just a few weeks, The Thornden Park Association will be holding its annual Chili Bowl Festival, now in its 10th year! Mark your calendar for Saturday February 18th between 12-4. Four varieties of freshly made-from-scratch chili will be available to warm you up at the Thornden Park Field House. Chili is $3 by the bowl, or $6 for a sampler of all four. Corn bread and home brewed root beer will also be on the menu. The proceeds from this event will be used for improvements to the park and to support park activities. Come out and support this local University Area park while enjoying some tasty food!

Indoor Fun For Kids – At the Mall!

Sarah — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 20:20:53 +0000

I still consider myself a “rookie” mom, so I get pretty excited when I figure out something new. It’s particularly nice to discover things that entertain my almost-one-year-old at a cost I can afford (free-$1)! Since it’s gotten colder, finding activities has become a bit more challenging. About once a week, we go to the mall. There are lots of benefits to this outing: it’s indoors and warm, I get plenty of exercise, and the people and stores are stimulating. But better yet – the malls have inexpensive activities especially for kids!

Carousel Center, of course, has the carousel. I love seeing my son’s face light up when he catches sight of the adorned horses. For just $1, we can ride together. The other day I also found out that Pottery Barn Kidsat Carousel has a weekly story time for little ones on Tuesdays at 11:00. The story is followed by a craft, and it’s free. An added bonus – you get a card they will stamp every time you go. When you have 5 stamps, you get a $10 off coupon to the store! If you’re in need of some social interaction or exercise, try a Stroller Fit class. This group started by the YMCA meets on the 1st floor under the carousel Monday mornings at 9:15 (through April). For one hour, parents walk their kids in strollers briskly through the mall with two stops for strength training on arms, legs, abs, and more. This is not only a great way to meet other parents and kids, it’s also free!

Great Northern Mall is not as good for walking, but has a wonderful play area right in the middle of the food court. I was surprised to see how much my son enjoyed it even though he is younger than most of the other kids. There’s a giant tree right in the middle with tunnels and a slide built into it. Surrounding the tree are ladybugs, mushrooms, bears and other forest-themed things for kids to climb on, crawl under, and explore. The perimeter is lined with benches for parents to sit and watch as the kids play. You will be amazed at the fun the kids have here!

Do you know of any other malls in the area with great activities for kids? Please let us know!

The Big Chill – This Weekend!

Sarah — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 20:12:10 +0000

In Central New York, the middle of January seems like an unlikely time for a fun-filled weekend event. I was excited to hear that my own town, Baldwinsville, hosts an annual two day festival for charity – The Big Chill. This Friday, January 20th, the weekend commences with a wine, chocolate, and cheese tasting at the historic Red Mill Inn (7-11 PM). Tickets for this event must be purchased in advance. Call (315) 638-0550, or click here. Beginning at 11 AM on Saturday, January 21st, there will be free family activities at Mercer Parkamid heated tents. The fun includes a snowman-making contest, a cook-off, a bonfire, and a kids area. Food and beverages will be available for purchase.

The most anticipated event of the day is the Polar Bear Plunge. From 12:00-4:00, courageous teams and individuals will jump into the icy cold Seneca River – all for charity! It’s not too late to sign up if you’re daring enough to brave the glacial waters – click here to get started. Each person must raise a minimum of $100. Don’t wait though – you must pre-register at the Baldwinsville Chamber of Commerce by this Thursday, January 18th between 5-8 PM in order to participate.

The Big Chill is concluded with the Poker Bear Express, a poker run/pub crawl. All of the proceeds from this enjoyable weekend are divided between the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, the Ronald McDonald House Charities of CNY, and the Greater Baldwinsville Chamber of Commerce. I won’t miss it!

These pictures are from last year’s event. Did you attend? If so, send your photos to peilinteam@yourcnyhome.com. Chilliest looking photo wins a Friendly’s Ice Cream Gift Certificate for $10!

Buying Organic at Wegmans

Sarah — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 01:16:26 +0000

About two years ago, someone explained to me the importance of eating organic foods as much as possible. Prior to that, I didn’t pay any attention to the “USDA Organic” label. I was far more concerned with getting a good price no matter what. I learned that organic produce is free of harmful pesticides. Organic meat and dairy products come from animals raised on organic farms. These animals are fed a 100% organic diet and never exposed to anitbiotics, hormones, or genetically modified foods. There are countless other reasons to buy and eat organic, and I decided to try and make the change.

As I was living in Atlanta, finding stores with a great selection of organic food was easy. There were Whole Foods stores scattered throughout the city. When I moved back to Syracuse last spring, one concern I had was finding the groceries I wanted in a convenient location. I worried that I would end up having to make an extra trip to a small specialty store. I was pleasantly surprised by the organic section at Wegmans! No matter where you live in the Syracuse area, there is likely to be a Wegmans close by. I can buy all of my regular groceries, then shop the organic aisles for items such as baby food, meat and dairy, and natural cosmetic items. Wegmans also offers organic produce (mixed into the produce section).

This month, all Wegmans stores are hosting a free “Everything Organic” event on Saturday 1/21 and Saturday 1/28 from 11:00-3:00. They will be giving out organic samples and recipes, and have kids’ activities too!

I have found organic sections at other stores as well, which is great to see. So far, I’ve found Wegmans to be superior in selection, price, and convenience. I am still on the lookout for other stores in the area. If you know of any, please let us know! I will be sure to check them out!

Local Organic Farms

Winter Wonders at Beaver Lake Nature Center

Sarah — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 16:57:20 +0000

Beaver Lake Nature Center, one of Baldwinsville’s hidden treasures, is only a 15 minute drive from Syracuse. I can remember visiting Beaver Lake several times as a child on school field trips and with family. It was always a thrill to explore the different trails through the woods and around the lake, and to discover the variety of plants and wildlife along the way.

Open daily and year-round, this peaceful conservatory has nine miles of trails. Whether you’re hiking, skiing, or partaking in one of the many nature programs offered, you can enjoy this retreat with family, friends, children, or solo!

Rather than staying indoors all winter, try admiring the beauty of the season by experiencing one of the winter programs. This weekend (1/6, 1/7, 1/8), ski or snowshoe along the moonlit trails with a friend until 9:00 PM, then cozy up and enjoy a hot beverage in the Visitor Center afterwards.

Throughout the months of January and February, take a guided wildlife snowshoe walk! The walks begin at 2:00 PM every Saturday and Sunday when snow conditions are favorable. Because space will be limited, call at 8:00 AM the day of the walk to register (315-638-2519).

Other upcoming events include the Mid-Winter Blues Run on February 5th, and the Eastern Mountain Sports & Beaver Lake Nature Center’s Snowshoe Race on February 12th. Visit the website to download the registration forms.

It’s always a good idea to call ahead, as certain events are weather permitting. If you’ve visited Beaver Lake, please let us know about your experience. Better yet, we’d love to see pictures!

Ice Skating in Clinton Square

Sarah — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 19:21:08 +0000

Winter can be such a drag. If you live in Syracuse, I’m sure you know that feeling. But I refuse to let the the winter weather get me down this year. Syracuse offers so many wonderful activities that celebrate the season (snow, or no snow)! The Clinton Square Ice Rink located in downtown Syracuse is the perfect example. Enjoy the delightful backdrop of historical downtown while coasting around the ice. Clinton Square is especially stunning at night with all of the city lights. Open from 11 AM to 8 PM every day, this winter pastime is fun for all ages. Bring your own skates, or rent them for just $3. Admission is only $3 for adults, and $1.50 for children under 12 and seniors. The skating season runs through early March, but be sure to check the website for closings due to weather (or call 315-423-0129).

Have you found a way to beat the winter blues? Please tell us about your favorite Syracuse wintertime activity!

New York Gives Campaign

Sarah — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 19:03:42 +0000

The holidays are here, and like usual, this month has been spent in a frenzy of preparation. My shopping is done, gifts are wrapped, cookies are baked, and the tree is trimmed. One important thing I still need to do is think about how to give to those who are in need.

A great opportunity to do this is through Governor Cuomo’s “NY Gives” campaign. You can donate gifts, toys, and home goods to families affected by Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee. 100% of all donations go directly to flood victims, with no administrative costs deducted.

How do we give? Simply click this link: NY Gives. The bottom paragraph has many suggestions of how to help. What better way to make the holiday season complete?

3,2,1…Happy New Year!

Sarah — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 15:02:36 +0000

Are you wondering what to do for family fun this New Year’s Eve? If you’re on a tight budget but want to enjoy a night out with the kids, why not try First Night? The fun starts at Onondaga Lake Park at 5:00 PM Saturday, December 31st.

This time, walk, instead of driving, through the Lights on the Lake display, then peruse the many kid-friendly activities amongst the heated tents: magic, face-painting, glow in the dark mini-golf, laser tag, video games, karaoke, a balloon launch, and much more. Additionally there will be live music throughout the evening including the featured band New Boyz. Food from Limp Lizard, Santillo’s, and Dominos will be available to purchase. Dunkin’ Donuts will even give all ticket holders a free hot beverage to warm you up (while supplies last)! Watch the Orange Ball drop at 11:59 followed by a fireworks display over Onondaga Lake.

All of this fun…and it’s only $5 a ticket (presale only)! Ages 5 and under get in free. You can buy tickets online or at your local Wegmans store. Free parking with shuttle rides are available. Let us know what your New Year’s plans are this year!

Food for Families

Sarah — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 18:07:35 +0000

Today, Friday, December 16th is the Food For Families food drive at your local Tops Markets. You can drop off perishable items, purchase Little Brown Bags of Hope, or donate cash. All donations go directly to the Food Bank of CNY. Look for coverage on NewsChannel 9, B104.7 and Y94 FM.

The Open Hand Theater – Performing Puppets!

Sarah — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 13:36:50 +0000

I recently heard about the Open Hand Theater, a puppet theater here in Syracuse (518 Prospect Avenue). In addition to performing shows, the theater offers workshops, travels to schools to perform, has a summer camp (Theater Arts Circus Camp), and a theater training program for kids. For a full listing of their programs, be sure to check out their website.

The Open Hand Theater also has a museum of masks and puppets based on cultures around the world. The museum is located in the Castle, a historic Victorian home uniquely designed for children to enjoy.

Upcoming December performances include Grandfather Frost’s Stories of Russia, Alice in Wonderland: The Remix!, Through a Puppet’s Eyes, and The Secret of the Puppet’s Book. Tickets are very affordable at only $5-$8.

I’m dying to check this place out when my son is old enough to enjoy it. In the meantime, I’d love to hear other opinions about the theater! Have you ever attended a show? How about the castle? Tell us what you think.