Genesee Valley Parent January 2013

Rochester Area & Genesee Valley Parent • January 2013 1

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Inside JanuaryVol.20 Number 1

in this issue

on the coverIs your family storm ready? 12

Cabin fever boredom busters 16

Natural beauty for mom 24

Conquering kid clutter 28

5 resolutions to keep 32

Things to do this January 34

more feature articles

6 | GVParent.com On the Web in January

8 | Editor’s Note

10 | Buzzworthy Reviews & News

20 | Book Nook For the Little Ones

22 | Parenting – TEENs & TWEENs Beating the Winter Blues

24 | Modern Mom Natural Beauty for Mom

26 | spotlight The Vitale Family

28 | House & Home 10 Tips for Conquering Kid Clutter

32 | Try This! 5 Resolutions to Keep

34 | Calendar of Events Family-Friendly Events Winter Events support Groups & Clubs Ongoing Events & Exhibits

46 | Out & About springdale Farm

eIs Your Family storm Ready?WHAT YOu sHOuLd KNOW TO BE PREPAREd

uCabin Fever or Winter Harmony?THE CHOICE Is YOuRs! HOW TO MAKE THE MOsT OF YOuR WINTER

our happy home issue

INsIdETHIsIssuE

Rochester Baby Guide / Winter Editionfind it after page 48

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what’s online[ ]

January 2013What you will find at www.GVParent.com this month!

GiveawaysIn honor of our Baby Guide, we’ll be doing some special Baby-exclusive prizes, and you can look forward to a new format for our monthly Giveaways! This month you can win your choice of Rockabye Baby Lullaby Cd, Tickets to ‘The Addams Family’ presented by RBTL, books, dVd’s and more!

Enter to win at www.gvparent.com/giveaways

Online-Only Editorial

Online PollLast month we asked our web readers what they

loved most about december:

75% The holidays – lights, decorations, family time

13% The weather – we’re snow bunnies!

6% Looking back on the past year – a time for reflection

6% It means we’re one month closer to spring!

don’t forget to vote in our January poll!

Add your response at www.gvparent.com

To celebrate the Winter Edition of our Baby Guide, we’ll be bringing you plenty of web exclusive content including articles on Baby Names, raising a Green Baby, and our brand new Virtual Baby Fair - your ultimate destination for all things Baby in Rochester! We’ll also have new ‘5 Things’ features including Game day snacks, Comfort Foods, Beating the Post-Holiday Blahs and more.

dId YOu KNOW THAT JANuARY Is...named after Janus, the god of the doorway as it is the doorway to the New Year.• Three Wise Men day, (or Epiphany) January 6th• Martin Luther King, Jr. day – January 21st (third Monday of the month)• Australia day in Australia – January 26 • National Thank You month – show your gratitude every chance you get.

GVP’s Five to Follow // our picks for great tweets:

@rCN4kids / Rochester ChildFirst Network / For Early Childhood Education news and happenings

@gevatheatre / Geva Theatre / For the latest info on current and upcoming productions on the Geva stage, as well as general news in culture and theatre

@samandmary_ChN / Corn Hill Navigation / Follow the sam Patch and Mary Jemison for some of the loveliest pictures of Rochester, a breath of fresh air in the middle of any work day

@CityrochesterNy / speaking of great views, get some beautiful pictures and all the latest news about our fair city

@CDCgov / Not a local organization but an important one, get all the latest updates on recalls and other health related issues happening all over the country

Don’t forget to follow us at @GVparentmag


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publisherBarbara Melnyk

[email protected]

eDiTOr-iN-ChieFJillian Melnyk

[email protected]

COMMuNiTY eDiTOrNatalee Kiesling

[email protected]

ACCOuNT exeCuTives Cynthia GoldbergNatalee Kiesling

MAgAziNe lAYOuT & DesigN

Jillian [email protected]

CAleNDAr [email protected]

DisTribuTiON MANAgerSandy Citarella

CONTribuTiNg wriTersJohn Boccacino,

Susan Henninger,Sinea Pies,

Angela Cannon-CruthersKerrie McLoughtin

Basic subscription rate: $25/year. Send sub-

scription inquiries and changes to address below. Copyright 2013, by GVP, Inc. All rights reserved.

Reproduction without per-mission is strictly prohibited. Distribution of this magazine

does not necessarily con-stitute an endorsement or necessarily reflect the opin-

ions of this publication.

Genesee Valley Parent Magazine

266 Alexander street,Rochester, NY 14607

p: 585-287-5330f: 585-287-5344

www.gvparent.com

MEMBER OF PARENTING

MEdIA AssOCIATION

staff

It felt suddenly meaning-less and trivial to be going to press with our “Happy Home Issue” featuring articles about cabin fever, boredom busters, home-made beauty remedies, and the winter edition of our Rochester Baby Guide (an issue that celebrates new life) with so much sadness around us.

But then I realized it’s not meaningless. Raising a happy and wholesome fam-ily is not meaningless at all. We can’t let tragedy pene-trate our lives to their core. We need to learn from it, yes, and never forget what happened, but what we provide for you in each issue is a reminder of what makes life special – the mil-lions of reasons to celebrate parenthood and childhood. The millions of reasons why children are important.

On that tragic day, friends on Facebook (parents, teachers, librarians, authors, and non-parents alike) encouraged each other to hug their children tighter that night and give them extra kisses. I’m not a parent, but I feel like one each day. A part of me feels like the parent of more than 80,000 Rochester

area families – your fami-lies. With each issue I try to guide, nurture and educate. Add a dose of fun, enlight-en, and make you smile. I’ve gotten to know some of your kids, and I’ve seen them grow. I work hard to make each issue special because I know that raising children is special.

I put my heart into each issue because I know that the content we provide is important – to you, to your children, and to their futures. We’re excited to be releasing our first ever January issue. (If you’re used to picking up our Family Resource directory in January, you can still find all of those great resources online at GVParent.com.) This issue is all about “the new” – a new year, new life, new home – and also includes the Winter Edition of our Rochester Baby Guide. I hope that this issue finds you and your family well. Thank you for being a reader and welcoming us into your hearts and homes each month.

With many hugs,

i would love to hear from you! send me an emailto [email protected]

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editor’s note[ ] By Jillian Melnyk

Jillian

We were putting the finishing touches on this January issue when we learned of the trag-ic school shooting in Connecticut. I was

finishing a last minute interview for our spotlight, and our Community Editor, Natalee, was sneaking in some bonus calendar additions – we were making sure that our first ever January issue was going to be great. It was hard to go on with these activities with the cloud of trag-edy hanging over my work. After all, I’m the editor at a family magazine; it was impossible not to think of how the events related to my work here.

what’s on your mind?


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• A charged cell phone so you can call 9-1-1• shovel • sand or other traction aid • Tow rope or chain • Booster cables • Road flares or warning lights • Gas line antifreeze • Flashlight and batteries • First aid kit • Fire extinguisher • small tool kit • Extra clothing, footwear and a blanket • Non-perishable energy foods • Candle, matches and a small tin can

buzzworthy[ ]contest alert!

There’s no denying the dangers of being distracted while driving – motor vehicle accidents are the leading cause of death among 15 to 20 year olds, and distracted driving is often the culprit. But teens can get out the word and advocate for good driving behavior! In its second annu-al video contest, NYCM Insurance is encouraging New York teens to create videos that conveys the dan-gers of distracted and promote good driving skills. Ninth through twelfth graders who attend a New York state public high school can enter an individual, group or animation video for a chance to win $15,000 (first prize), $10,000 (second prize) or $5,000 (third prize) for their schools. Videos must be uploaded to the NYCM Insurance Facebook page by January 31, 2013. To learn more about the contest, visit www.contest.nycm.com.

TEENs CAN CREATE AWARENEss FOR THE dANGERs OF dIsTRACTEd dRIVING

on the roadAre you – and your car – ready for a storm? If you’re out on the road and a storm hits, you could find yourself stranded or in need of emergency sup-plies. Bridgestone suggests keeping these essentials in your car during winter months:

Bridgestone also recommends ensuring that your car has win-ter or snow tires equipped while also preparing the rest of your vehicle for the winter season. This includes getting a maintenance check-up to avoid breakdowns while on the road and changing your wiper blades to enhance visibility. Following these simple winter driving tips will give you peace of mind on the road and keep you focused on the matter at hand – driving.

(For more storm and winter preparedness tips see our article ‘Is Your Family Storm Ready?’ on page 12.)

With cold and flu season upon us, emergency departments, urgent care centers and inpatient centers will be busy because of the flu. Part of the problem why so many peo-ple get sick is that they buy into the long-held myths about the flu vaccine. dr. dennis Cunningham of Nationwide Children’s Hospital shares some common myths:

myth: YOu CAN ACTuALLY CATCH THE FLu FROM THE FLu VACCINE.It’s simply not true. The vaccine can give you some mild symptoms, you may feel a bit achy and your arm may be a little tender where you first get the shot, but that’s actually a good thing and shows that the vaccine is working. It tells us your body is responding appropriately to the vaccine. don’t confuse a few slight symptoms with the actual flu. The vaccine may leave you feeling a bit warm or achy for a day or two, but with true influenza, someone is sick and in bed for a week with high fever.

myth: YOu sHOuLd WAIT uNTIL IT Is COLd OuTsIdE TO GET YOuR FLu VACCINEsome people are worried that if you get the vaccine too soon, it will wear off by the time winter gets here. The truth is vaccinating people even in August will protect them through-out the entire flu season.

busting common flu myths

CONTINuEd >>>


flu myths continued>>myth: THE FLu Is ONLY sPREAd BY sNEEzINGGerms are pretty easy to pass around and flu is really contagious. It’s very easy for one child to give it to another child and the next thing you know, they bring it home. It is especially important for children to get the flu shot. Children are around so many people – from peers to teachers, siblings to adults and grandparents – which means they are the biggest carriers of the flu, and giving them the vaccine can protect a wide range of people.

myth: FLu VACCINEs dO NOT PROTECT YOu FROM CuR-RENT sTRAINsThe World Health Organization and Centers for disease Control and Prevention pick the strains they think are most likely to circu-late in the coming months so that people are protected against everything that may go around. Every year there are two A strains and one B strain of influenza included in the vaccine.

Childhood obesity is on the rise, and it’s a problem that isn’t going to solve itself. With the start of a new year, there are things you and your family can do to help lead your children towards a healthier path. Gordon Filepas, author of Lean And Healthy To 100, (www.adviceformychildren.com) offers these four tips for transformation:

• Parental accountability: Your job as a parent is to teach your children what they need to learn to become produc-tive, balanced and healthy adults. Buying snack foods, sodas and junk food for your children is not being responsible. Plus, you’re rewarding companies that make these products.

• School accountability: If your school sells and profits from any type of junk food in vending machines, it should be ashamed of itself. school budgets may be strained, but mak-ing money from junk food is wrong on so many levels. If a school really needs to carry these foods to make money, then we should mandate that manufacturers create a “school version” that contains all the nutrients the human body needs and are made from only whole, natural food sources and nothing man-made. If implemented, students would shine in so many ways.

• teach ParentS and children the root cauSe: From 20 years of health research, I’ve learned that the root cause of obesity and disease is due to imbalances in the human body. The underlying, real root cause of these imbalances is a lifestyle that does not honor how the human body actually works, or respects what it really needs. The proper lifestyle is composed of the proper nutrition and daily living habits that maintain and pre-serve this nutrient foundation, and balances biological function.

• FocuS on the inSide FirSt: The fatal flaw America is making in terms of its health and obesity is that it is trying to solve health and weight problems using outside-in solutions like calorie counting, calorie restriction, willpower, dieting, etc. These are “unnatural” man-made solutions that do not respect what the human body needs or how it works. The secret is to balance the inside first. Then everything on the outside will natu-rally balance itself automatically.

4 tips for tackling childhood obesity

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what you should know to be prepared

storm ready?Is YOuR FAMILY

flashlights withextra batteries

medical supplies/first aid kit

rope navgation & alert: compass/whistle

canned goods

candles &matches

water

radio/walkie-talkie /communication device

By John Boccacino


As Sandy bore down upon the east coast of the country on Oct. 29., 2012, the super storm brought torrential rains, intense winds and damage to New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts and much of the eastern seaboard. Here in Rochester we were not totally spared from Sandy’s devastation, although damage was to a lesser extent than that of our down-state neighbors. Wind gusts reached up to 60 miles per hour, and according to Roch-ester Gas & Electric, more than 19,000 Monroe County residents lost power. While Rochester might not have received the lion’s share of the damage, it did get many area families talking about what steps they should take to ensure they’re prepared for an emergency.

Being PreparedRegardless of the disaster risk, the Red Cross, State Farm Insurance and other agencies stress the importance of being prepared for a possible disaster well in advance of the actual incident. “Regard-less of the storm or natural disaster, the most important thing is for families to be prepared, by having enough supplies to last and having everyone know what the evacuation plan is,” says Richard King, the interim emergency services director for the Red Cross who has worked for the organi-zation for more than 20 years. “The most immediate concerns are being prepared for both power and heat outages. If you’re cold and don’t have power, it will be dif-ficult for a family to survive for very long. Have plenty of warm blankets, sleeping bags and flashlights available, and while we don’t tell everyone to rush out and buy a generator, people should at least consider having emergency power available in the form of a generator.” Rochester and our surrounding areas are fortunate that, for the most part, torna-does, earthquakes and hurricanes are not a big threat to our homes and our way of

lives, but that doesn’t mean we don’t face potentially damaging storms. Living in the Snow Belt, Rochesterians are well-versed in the risks associated with blizzards and heavy snowfall. For us, snowstorms, ice storms, flooding and heavy winds are the biggest weather-related risks we face.

Stock Up – King recommends having a week’s worth of water (for a family of four this means four 24-packs of bottled water), along with easily prepared food such as cereal, bread, cheese, peanut butter and jelly that can serve as an adequate source of nutrition in case of a power outage. A portable, battery-operated AM/FM radio can keep the family informed of the latest storm developments, while a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) weather radio can broadcast continuous weather information such as official Weather Service warn-ings, watches, forecasts and other hazard information 24 hours a day, 7 days a week directly from the nearest National Weather Service office. Additionally, a First Aid kit should be easily accessible during a disas-ter. In the winter a snow shovel and plenty of sidewalk salt can help you clear a path out from under a bad snowstorm.

Have a plan – All families should know their evacuation plan, says King, including where children should meet their parents in case a disaster strikes during the school day, when children are sepa-rated from their parents. This can be a neighbor’s or a relative’s house, so long as everyone knows what the plan is. The Red Cross offers storm preparedness classes. More information on these classes, as well as emergency preparedness tips, are avail-able at www.rochesterredcross.org.

know wHere to Go – In times of weather emergencies, the Rochester chap-ter of the Red Cross will set up shelters for individuals and families, and King says

that even if there is no power, the Red Cross will find a way to inform people of shelter options. Additionally, people can text the word SHELTER, along with their zip code, to the Federal Emergency Man-agement Agency (FEMA) at 43362 to find their nearest shelter in the area. Nation-ally, the Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH) offers a series of tips on bracing for storms and natural disasters, including what to do before, during and after a storm strikes. More information on FLASH is available at www.flash.org.

Here in Rochester during Hurricane San-dy, Maggie Brooks, the longtime Monroe County Executive, issued a voluntary evacuation order for residents living in the low-lying neighborhoods around Lake On-tario, including Webster and Greece. Po-lice went door-to-door notifying residents of the voluntary evacuation order, and phone calls were also placed to residents in the most at-risk areas. As a resident of Lake Road in Webster along the shores of Lake Ontario, I happened to be one of those residents notified of the voluntary evacuations. Luckily, my roommate and I had planned ahead — to a certain extent — and had sand bags in place at both the front and back doors to our house, to pre-vent flooding in the basement and upstairs. We also had a supply of bottled water, fire wood for our wood burning stove, canned food and flashlights, just in case the storm’s wrath lived up to its rather lofty prognos-tications. But while it’s important to have enough supplies available should disaster strike, it’s equally important to know what

In this day of the 24-hour-a-day news media, it was hard to ignore Hur-

ricane sandy and the bleak weather predictions that came with the 10th

hurricane of 2012. Thanks to around-the-clock coverage dedicated to

the storm by both national and local media, sandy’s potential for devastation

was well-known across most of the region, but like any weather phenomenon,

just how devastating sandy’s wrath would be was unknown until the storm made

landfall.

CONTINuEd >>>

Regardless of the storm or natural disas-ter, the most important

thing is for families to be prepared, have enough

supplies to last and have everyone know what the

evacuation plan is.”

— Richard King, interim emergency services direc-

tor for the Red Cross

“

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families should bring with them, should they need to leave their homes quickly. Forms such as birth certificates, living wills, social security cards, drivers’ licenses and bank records should be readily available, says King, so you’re not “wasting time looking for these important forms during an emergency.”

Preparedness On-the-GoTwo winters ago, hundreds of drivers were stranded on the New York State Thruway for 14-plus hours after an accident outside of Buffalo caused a severe backup. Since snow is the biggest wintertime weather threat, King and Arlene Lester of State Farm Insurance both urge motorists to treat their cars like their homes and make sure they’re prepared in the event they’re stranded while on the road. Warm blankets, a snow shovel, road salt, flash lights and a battery operated radio are among the emergency survival supplies motorists should have in their cars, along with bottles of water.

Before (And After) the stormLocally, Hurricane Sandy storm damage

paled in comparison to what transpired along the coast, but it did serve as an important reminder of the dangers of not heeding warnings in advance of a potential-ly devastating storm and not being properly insured. Like all insurance, flood insurance has to be purchased well before a storm passes through. Since standard homeowners’ insur-ance doesn’t cover flooding, it’s important to have protection from the floods associat-ed with hurricanes, tropical storms, heavy rains and other conditions that impact the region. People who don’t have flood insurance — which can only be obtained through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), run through FEMA — face the risk of losing everything should flood waters damage their homes. Costing as little as $129 per year, Lester says flood insurance is a good way to provide peace of mind in case the worst-case scenario plays out and flooding damages your home. Another tip from Lester: keep an accurate and updated registry of all your belongings, in case a storm damages your possessions. That way, in the storm’s aftermath, you can accurately provide information about damage and loss.

“Most people don’t know offhand how much their stuff is worth, so trying to file an insurance claim in the middle of a crisis can be daunting,” says Lester, a public affairs specialist for State Farm Insurance who covers portions of the northeast stretching from Maine through New Jersey. “Being prepared is still the most important thing. The biggest mistake people make is they think a storm is not going to hit them, so they don’t prepare at all. For families, it’s important to have enough baby formula, diapers and medications on hand to carry you through the storm. Assess the needs of your family on a daily basis and make sure you have those supplies on hand.” As of Dec. 1, 149 people died as a result of Sandy, including 42 deaths here in New York state. Governor Andrew Cuomo has placed the storm’s estimated damage at $42 billion dollars across the state, a figure

helpful linkswww.ready.gov/winter-weather

www.floodsmart.gov/floodsmartwww.rochesterredcross.org

www.flash.org


that exceeds the damage from Hurricane Katrina in 2007. While the rest of the state deals with the long road to recovery from Sandy, there’s a lesson to be learned from this devastating storm: it’s better to be safe and plan ahead in case of a storm than to be sorry and be left scrambling to survive in the days after a storm.

John Boccacino is a freelance writer living in Webster, NY who reported on sports and local news for more than 6 1/2 years with the Democrat and Chronicle newspaper. Boccacino is a Brighton native who enjoys reporting on a wide variety of topics. To comment on this story email our Editor at [email protected]

ARE YOu REAdY FOR A dIsAsTER?

some people take disaster prep to the extreme – that’s the premise behind the National Geographic Channel’s show, Doomsday Preppers. The show features average Americans who are preparing for the worst. And while their methods may be (to say the least) unconventional, there’s a lesson to be learned – sometimes you’re better safe than sorry.

The show’s website – channel.nationalgeographic.com/channel/doomsdaypreppers – offers a “Prep Quiz” where you can find out your “prepper score” and see how long you may survive after a big ca-tastrophe. It might shock you to realize how un-pre-pared you are. While the quiz, like the show, is a bit radical (for example, it gives you points for having a second secret hide-out location or secure lock-down area in your home) it does provide helpful resources and information about how much food and water you may need in the event of an emergency. It also gives good ideas about electric sources, water, and renewable food.

The site also offers information about food preserva-tion, water sanitizing, food storage and resupply and more.

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Cabin Fever orWinter Harmony?the choiceis yours!how to make the most of your winter

Every parent knows that, if you want to avoid winter colds and

the flu, it’s important to employ certain preventative health care

measures like washing your hands frequently and drinking lots

of orange juice. What mothers and fathers may not realize is that it’s just as

easy to steer clear of another equally dreaded winter ailment – Cabin Fever.

Once the cold winter months are here for good, school cancellations and

sick days abound, but all you need to turn the dreary mornings and after-

noons into fun ones is a spirit of adventure and a little imagination. Here

are a few boredom busters that will leave you all laughing together instead

of grumbling.

By sue Henninger

sTuCK INsIdE?Declare “BackwarDS Day”Mix up all your meals, eating traditional dinner foods in the morning (cold pizza and spaghetti are especially popular) and breakfast foods like French toast or pancakes for supper. Wear your clothes backwards (as much as possible), talk and walk backwards, and read stories to each other starting at the end instead of the beginning. You can even tell jokes backwards by revealing the punch line first and having the others try to guess the question!


Make SoMetHinG froM ScratcHHave you always wanted to bake homemade bread but you can’t ever seem to find the time? When the school calls yet another snow day, you’ll have eight unexpected hours to fill; the per-fect amount of time to turn out a mouthwatering loaf or two of homemade bread right out of the oven. Kids will love endlessly kneading and punching the dough and the harder they do it the better it will rise, so set them loose! If you feel really ambitious, make a batch of hearty soup, like beef barley or split pea with ham, to accompany your bread. Depending on their ages, kids can help slice and dice the vegetables, peel the potatoes or car-rots, and measure out the water, cream, or broth. Another idea is to buy or borrow an old-fashioned pasta mak-ing machine and try your hand at making homemade noodles. The machines can be ordered online at stores you’re familiar with like Target (www.target.com) or from a specialty shop like www.consiglioskitchenware.com and they range in price from $19.00-$100.00. Children, even older ones, love to crank the dough through the machine and drape the fresh pasta all over the kitchen to dry. Not surprisingly, homemade spaghetti and fettuccini really do taste better than the kind that comes in a box.

HolD a claSSic Movie MaratHonHave everyone choose their favorite musical or old-fashioned movie and watch them all back-to-back. Serve popcorn, soda, and candy just like at the real movies. Sing along with all your favorite show tunes – loudly. You can even get up and dance if the spirit moves you! Enthusiastic family members can choose to dress up as their favorite characters.

entertain yoUr frienDS anD neiGHBorSInvite all your friends (adults and children) to come over with their instruments and you can all amuse yourselves by singing along to old familiar songs or combining the instruments to com-pose new songs in different musical styles. Or try making your own movie. Give the kids the video camera, unlimited access to dress-up clothes and makeup, and have them write, direct, and film a production. When they’re finished, hold a screening party in front of a live audience. If you’re really ambitious you can even have them create “Emmy-like” awards that the viewers can vote to award to the performers in categories like “best dressed,” “funniest,” or “most dramatic.”

GET OuTsIdE!Be a paleontoloGiSt for tHe DayYour stir-crazy children will likely need fresh air and exercise at some point in their confinement - plan ahead for a “dinosaur dig.” This is much easier than it sounds and can quickly use up several hours of a day when you’re stuck at home. Collect all of the various sized plastic dinosaurs in your house (or buy some in advance at the local Dollar Store). Put the prehistoric creatures in different sized Tupperware containers or large plastic bowls filled with water and freeze them. Take the resulting “dinosaur eggs” out of their molds and hide or bury them all over your yard. Put the kids into their snowsuits, give them some old garden tools to aid in excavating their finds, and set them loose. If you want to provide some extra incentive, you can also freeze a large plastic egg (from Easter or pantyhose) filled with coins or dollar bills as the “bonus find.” A wonderful snack idea to accompany this activity is some-

CONTINuEd >>>

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thing I call “Excavation Cupcakes.” Find these Fossil Food cake molds at www.fredandfriends.com in sets of four (some local novelty stores may carry them as well). When the kids are ready to come inside, present them with their treat, a fork, and the unusual order to “dig up your dessert!” Half the fun is having to chip delicately away at the fragile cake so you can keep the 3-D skull of the Triceratops, T-Rex, or other extinct species buried at the bottom intact.

Decorate yoUr yarDFill a bunch of plastic spray bottles with food coloring and water and let the kids spray-paint the snow-filled yard. It they’re really artistic, encourage them to make snowmen or snow sculptures and color them so they look more realistic and interesting. Be sure to take lots of pictures to send to the grandparents and deco-rate the refrigerator!

These are just a few ideas to keep the positive energy flowing, no matter what the weather or germs are doing. The main thing is to regard your enforced time at home as an unexpected oppor-tunity to have a good time with your offspring rather than as a torturous snow-filled struggle. Remember, in just a few short years your young adults will be recalling “the good old days” and it will be much more enjoyable to have them remember you as a superhero!

Sue Henninger is a freelance writer and a regular contributor to Rochester Area & Genesee Valley Parent Magazine. She lives in the Upstate New York area. Contact her at www.fingerlakeswriter.com


20 www.GVParent.com

book nook[ ] By Jillian Melnyk

WIN THIs BOOK! VIsITWWW.GVPARENT.COM & CLICK “GIVEAWAYs”

For the Little Ones

MORE REAdsCheck out these other best-sell-ers, new releases, & classics for

young readers:

Perfect PiggiesBy Sandra Boynton

The Runaway BunnyWritten by Margaret Wise

Brown & Illustrated by Clement Hurd

Llama Llama Nighty-NightBy Anna Dewdney

Pat the BunnyBy Dorothy Kunhardt

Peek-A-Who?By Nina Landen

123 san FranciscoWritten by Puck, Illustrated by

Kevin Stone

First Book of sushiBy Amy Wilson Sanger

tip: many classics come in board book format for

younger readers.

san Francisco, Baby!Illustrated by Ward JenkinsChronicle Books, 2012, hardcover, $12.99Ages infant to 4

Big city adventure awaits! Gorgeous illustra-tions introduce young ones to the wonders of san Francisco – lunch at the wharf, a ride on the trolley, a trip to China Town and much more. also available: New York, Baby!

It’s never too early to start reading with your baby. Babies and infants love an assortment of books with a variety of themes. Each of these books is colorful, engaging or has an interactive element to

entertain your littlest ones.

97 Ways to Make a Baby LaughBy Jack MooreWorkman Publishing, 2012, $8.95For Parents

Need some ideas to put a smile on Baby’s face? This book has you covered! With 97 easy ideas and quickie tips (that can be done basically anywhere and with few or no accessories), you’ll never be out of ways to make your baby giggle. A perfect new-parent gift or for stashing in the car when you need a quick solution to brighten Baby’s mood.

sleepy FarmBy Luana RinaldoCampbell Books, 2010, fabric book, $5.99Ages infant and up

snugly soft, this book is perfect for cuddling up for bedtime. squishy and tactile, baby can grab, squeeze and curl up with these lovable farm animals before drifting off to sleep.

Looking for more book

recommendations?

Find our past Book Nooks online at

www.gvparent.com


Good Night BeachWritten by Adam Gamble & Illustrated by Cooper KellyOur World of Books, 2007, boardbook, $7.95Ages infant to 4

Perfect for bedtime, this book is the ideal way to settle in for the evening. With soothing rhymes and iconic illustrations, it will remind you – and your youngest ones – of your summer days or vacation just taken. also available: Good Night Zoo, Good Night America, Good Night World, and more.

Foodie Babies Wear BibsWritten by Michelle sinclair Coleman & Illustrated by Nathalie dionRandom House, 2008, board book, $6.99Ages 3 months – 3 years

It’s never too young to introduce your little one to the wonders of gourmet eating. This book is perfect for “little foodies” and celebrates the joys of cuisine. Join these foodie fiends as they browse the farm market,

dine al fresco, and more. Charming and chic. also available: Urban Babies Wear Black, Winter Babies Wear Layers, Rocker Babies Wear Jeans, Eco Babies Wear Green and more.

Jillian Melnyk is the Editor for Rochester Area & Genesee Valley Parent Magazine. She has an MFA in Writing for Children from the Center for the Study of Children’s Literature at Simmons College. She welcomes questions about books and can offer endless recommendations at [email protected]

22 www.GVParent.com

Beating the Winter BluesHOW TEENs CAN BEAT OLd MAN WINTER AT HIs GAME

With winter at my doorstep, I am reminded of the expressions “dead of winter” and “cabin fever.” Many start to get antsy about being cooped up for too long, especially teens who are used to being active every

minute of the day. Teens want to get out and get moving, but afternoons spent at the beach or biking through the countryside are distant memories now that the weather no longer cooperates.

parenting teens & tweens[ ] By Myrna Beth Haskell

WANT To SHARE YoUR IDEAS? UPCoMING ToPIC: Tips for how to save money on “The Prom.”send your full name, address, & brief comments to: [email protected] or visit: www.myrnahaskell.com8

Some people are affected by seasonal differences more than others. The colder tempera-tures and fewer hours of sun-light can affect a teen’s mood or even lead to depression. The key is to keep energy levels high and creative ideas flowing.

The Basics for a Positive Winter season Healthy eating is important to keep a teen’s energy up. “When the winter months get dreary, think color. A plate full of bright colored food can perk your mood just by looking at it,” suggests Megan Fendt, RD, CDE, of the Friedman Diabetes Institute at Beth Israel Hospital in Manhattan. “The vitamins and minerals in fruits and vege-tables can help you think more clearly. Getting more brain food can be as easy as grabbing some baby carrots or a green apple.” Since teens often eat on the run, you might want to suggest healthy snack foods: cit-rus fruits, granola bars, low fat yogurt, raisins, or nuts. Teens should also make an effort to eat small, healthy portions throughout the day which keeps their metabolism going. Dory said it best to Nemo, “Just keep swimming…just

keep swimming.” In an age where hand-held electronics and video games are common pastimes, exercise sometimes takes a backseat. If your teen is not competing in a winter sport, he should seek activities that provide a workout. Jason Stella, a certified personal trainer and fitness expert with Lifetime Fitness Centers, says that the best workouts are those that put a smile on your face. “When it comes to exercise, the perception is often a drill sergeant and a miserable experience. It doesn’t have to be that way,” he says. “Think about a time that you played without worrying about judg-ment. Typically you felt great when you were participating in the experience, even if it was difficult and caused you to lose your breath.” Keeping Stella’s advice in mind, teens should look for creative ways to exercise. For instance, meet friends at an indoor pool and plan some races. Sledding is also a great workout. Once you go down, you have to climb back up! The key is enjoyment and socializa-tion. After all, time with friends is always an energy and mood booster.

Worst Case: seasonal depression Does your teen seem to be more affected by the winter than she should be? Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a form of depression that occurs during the winter months when days get shorter. Symptoms include excessive eating, excessive sleeping, decreased energy, difficulty concentrating, and weight gain. A craving for carbohydrates is also character-istic of SAD. How does a parent realize it’s more than mild “cabin fever?” Angelos Halaris, MD, PhD, a professor of psychiatry and behavioral neurosciences at Loyola Medical Center in Maywood, IL, offers, “SAD, whether in teens or adults, has a seasonal pattern. It usually sets in during early November, gets progressively worse during the course of the winter months, and begins to lift by itself in late March or early April.” Cases can range from mild to severe, but SAD is treatable. Dr. Halaris advises, “If at all possible, get outside during winter, even if it is overcast. Open drapes and blinds to let in natural light. SAD can be effectively treated with light

therapy, antidepressant medi-cation, and psychotherapy.”

Myrna Beth Haskell is a freelance writer and monthly contributor to Roch-ester Area & Genesee Valley Parent Magazine who lives in Salt Point, NY. She is the author of the newly released book, LIONS and TIGERS and TEENS: Expert advice and support for the conscientious parent just like you (Unlimited Publishing LLC). For more information visit www.myrnahaskell.com. Also available at: Amazon.com.

Cool options for cold months:

• Besides energy-packed foods and a good dose of exercise, suggest these clever ways teens can keep their energy level up and enjoy themselves.

• Take it outside: snap some beautiful winter landscape photos while hiking or decorate an evergreen (It doesn’t have to be Christ-mas!).

• Indoor options: Take a class and meet new friends (i.e. cooking or photogra-phy).

• Get creative: don’t watch a movie – make a movie!

• Revitalize a space: Change the look of your bedroom.

• serve the community: Volunteer in a soup kitchen for the homeless. This time of year is extremely hard for those in need – when teens feel needed, they feel good.


24 www.GVParent.com

Kitchen Cabinet FacialsMaking oatmeal this morning? Why not try some breakfast on your face! Warm, cooked oats make a lovely and moisturizing skin wash that’s nourishing and non-greasy. You can take it a step further and use the coffee grinder to mix a wonderful mask to apply and dry while packing lunches or feeding baby – the little ones will think you are really funny! You might also try smearing some of that yogurt, avocado, or honey on your face for a soothing treatment. Allow it to dry and wipe off gently with a warm cloth. The following are a couple wonderful recipes you can make with just a few ingredients in the kitchen:

HealinG Honey anD eGG wHite MaSk – for oily or blemished skin

• 1 whipped egg white • 1 tablespoon honey • 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Mix ingredients and pat onto skin with finger tips. Allow to dry completely. Wash off with warm water and follow with a lemon or vinegar toner.

BreakfaSt face ScrUB

• 2 tablespoons oatmeal• 2 tablespoons almond meal

(about 4 almonds) or 2 table-spoons cornmeal• 1 tablespoon lavender flowers,

rose petals, or calendula (optional)

Place ingredients in a grind-er. Pour ground mix into a shallow bowl. Add enough water, milk, honey, or yogurt to make a paste. Gently wash and exfoliate, using your fingertips to make small circles. Rinse thoroughly.

Eye PuffinessOf course you’re tired, you’re a mom! But some days you don’t want the whole world to know just how tired you are. Drink-ing plenty of water is key here, as is getting some extra rest. Under eye puffiness can be re-lieved by placing grated potato, cucumber, or cold spoons on the eyes, or by gently dabbing the under eye area with chilled witch hazel for a few minutes followed by a cream moisturiz-er. I’ve also tried Preparation H under the eyes, but it leaves an interesting film – yuk. If you can find time to lay down with

your feet up, and rest your eyes with one of the above treat-ments on, it’s guaranteed to work wonders.

TonerApple cider vinegar works great as a skin toner, especially when infused with a few culinary herbs or seasonal flowers. For oily skin: fill a Mason jar half full of sage, juniper berries, and lavender and cover completely with apple cider vinegar. For dry skin: use chamomile or calendula flowers. Place wax paper or plastic wrap over the top and put lid on. Allow mix to sit in a sunny window for a week or two. Strain. Dilute by half with distilled water, or if skin is oily, witch hazel. You can dilute twice again if the toner feels too strong and over tingly. Keep it in the fridge for a refreshing treatment. Apply to skin with a cotton or flannel cloth.

Hair RinsesNothing says shine like an herb-infused hair rinse made with apple cider vinegar and rosemary (for brunettes) or chamomile (for fair locks). Use the method for making a cider vinegar toner and store in a break-proof container right in the shower. Apply as a final rinse after shampooing – even in place of conditioner all together. Vinegar hair rinses are also a great treatment for dandruff.

Quick deodorantHaving one of those days where the idea of having time to take a shower seems impossible? In a pinch, a little white vinegar applied under the armpits will kill odor-causing bacteria. Apply with a tissue or cloth. The vinegar smell will quickly dissipate as it dries. A little deodorant or spritz of perfume can be added after. Put on a clean shirt too.

Natural Beauty for Mom AT-HOME RECIPEs FOR FACIALs, sKIN CARE & MORE

Between feedings, changing, bed-time stories, and work, time to care for yourself can seem nonexistent. But it’s a fact that when mom feels

good about herself it benefits the entire family.The best natural beauty remedy for a busy mom is plenty of rest, exercise, and proper nutrition – but there are other easy treatments you can whip up yourself for pennies that can make you feel like the goddess you are.

modern mom[ ] By Angela Cannon-Crothers


dry shampooDry shampoo is all the rage right now. If you need to head out and your locks aren’t as clean as you would like, mix up a quick dry shampoo with baby powder, cornmeal, ground oatmeal, or corn starch. Dark hued hair types might want to substitute powdered cocoa and cornmeal. Sprinkle lightly in hair using a salt shaker or clean, reused, parmesan cheese container. Allow to sit and absorb oils for a few minutes. Brush out. Another quick trick is to wrap a piece of cheesecloth around your hairbrush and brush thoroughly. The cloth will remove dirt and oils. This can be used with or without a dry shampoo. If you want to make a scented dry shampoo, take your favor-ite combination of the above powders and place in a Mason jar with lavender, rose, or other scented blossoms or herbs. Allow to sit for a couple weeks to infuse. A wonderful quick trick for a busy mom!

The final and best beauty treatment of all is to look at yourself in the mirror and praise how lovely you are! Find at least two things about your appearance to give gratitude to for every day. Say it aloud. We are all beautiful, real, women and it’s important for our children, especially our daughters, to know what true beauty really is – take it from an entirely bald mama!

Angela Cannon-Crothers is a contributing writer to Rochester Area & Genesee Valley Parent Magazine. She is an an educator at Herb Haven in Crystal Beach as well as a writer and author. You can visit her website at angelacannoncroth-ers.webs.com

26 www.GVParent.com

The Vitale FamilyAddIsON, 3, ANd HER PARENTs, ANNA LIsA ANd MICAH

spotlight[ ] By Jillian Melnyk

After the devastation left behind from Hurricane sandy, the Vitale Family of Rochester knew they had to help. Instead of just sending a monetary

donation to a charity, they knew they wanted to get active themselves, and their daughter’s upcoming third birthday party was the perfect chance. “We wanted to see our col-lections fall into the hands of those in need,” says Anna Lisa. Leading up to the party in december, the family accepted donations of toys and other goods.

What types of items did you collect? We have so many various donations. One person dropped off around $200 worth of bleach, gloves, batteries, dia-pers, formula, water and much more. Another woman dropped off 8 medium sized boxes overflowing with Mary Kay products along with clothes and towels. What I love about this is that many people lost things like cosmetics that aren’t a necessity and they won’t get from the Red Cross, but many do need these items in their dai-ly lives. We also received tons of stuffed animals and other various toys.

What advice would give to other families interested in contributing to a cause? Google! I did some searching online and found Ken Corpus of Webster. He was using his business, Computer Works

Pro, as a drop-off for donations with the plan of driving a large truckload down to the East Rockaway community – he has an acquaintance who lives there who can distribute dona-tions. I contacted him and told him about our birthday col-lection idea and he was more than happy to volunteer to make a second trip down after Addison’s party. It’s important to understand the power of one person. By simply reaching out and asking others for help we were able to do this.

What has your daughter learned from this experi-ence? With the help of a Sesame Street hurricane special, Addison was able to see the damage hurricanes cause. She learned that she is capable of simply helping someone who needs help whether it’s with a toy or well wishes. We’ve made cards,

wrapped gifts and prayed for the victims of this hurricane and she is enthusiastic about her ability to be able to help them.

What have you learned from this experience?Children are an important tool in society. It’s our responsi-bility to mold them into good people as best we can and this has taught me that no age is too young to learn selfless acts. She’s at an age where sharing is tough, time-outs happen and listening isn’t always her best trait, but there is a joy that comes from helping someone and that’s something you can feel. She feels that and I’m so proud of her. Don’t take your children for granted, they are capable anything if you steer them in the right direction.

Describe Addison in one word: Grateful

One trait you hope Addison inherits from you: Selfless-ness. I tend to do things for

others with no expectation of anything in return.

Last meal you made for your family: I love to cook but my husband is the chef around here! He made delicious Chicken Parmesan last night! Best piece of parenting advice you ever got: As a former nanny for years, I learned the importance of setting an example. As a stay at home mom this rings true be-cause we’re together each day. Whatever your children see you do they will ultimately pick up. Get down at their level and play with them, be imaginative and when you’re not playing with them let them see you doing what you love, whether it’s reading or dancing, etc. Last book you and Addison read together: EB White’s Stuart Little series, Trumpet of the Swan and Charlotte’s Web. She loves listening to lengthier books.

On the day of the party, guests were asked to bring gifts – not for Addision – but for storm victims. “I’m happy that by using her party as a means of collecting donations, her friends can also learn a great deal from all of this.” Along with offering up her party as a collection opportunity, Addison has also selected some of her own toys for donation. “If you asked her why she wants to give away her toys she says ‘I help the kids, they have no more toys.’ She literally grasped the idea that they have nothing and she under-stood that by giving away her toys she is helping other children,” says her mother.


28 www.GVParent.com

1.overHaUl wHat yoUr kiDS alreaDy Have for about an hour a day so you don’t get overwhelmed (toys, stuffed animals, shoes, clothes, books, videos). Separate items into two or three piles or bags: throw away, give away (or sell at a consignment store or in a garage sale), and (if applicable) save for a future kid. Then group like items (e.g., shoes, leotards, sports equipment) so you can quickly figure out what you are missing or have too much of. “Involve your kids in the corralling process,” suggests Robin Harisis, a Rochester Area Organizing Consultant. “When your children are babies and young toddlers, par-ents take on the responsibility of organizing and picking up. However, as children grow and develop, they can be involved in the process. Ask them their opinions on organizing their toys and put them in charge of picking up their belongings. You may be surprised what your child is capable of doing

and the creative solutions they invent.”

2.notify faMily anD frienDS that you are trying to reduce clutter. Grandma would probably be thrilled to get the kids a membership to the local zoo, while several peo-ple could pool money to pay for quite a few of your daugh-ter’s ballet lessons. This is also a great way to teach your kids about thoughtful and meaning-ful gift giving.

3.orGanize. I am in love with those toy storage units with the 10 brightly colored bins. You can either have your child throw everything in the bins however they like, or try to get them to sort by bin (e.g., trains in the large yellow bin, books in the small blue bin, animals in the small red bin, etc.). But … don’t get too crazy about grouping like items. While this method works well for many things (trains, shoes,

Barbies), make sure you have a catch-all system, too (see #4).

4.HiDe it away. Consider buying a storage ottoman for a main living area. Target carries a nice brown faux leather stor-age ottoman with a no-pinch lid for about $80 that hides toys and is also sturdy enough to serve as a seat for two. Kids can do a fast pick-up daily or when company is on the way, and then close the lid to hide the whole mess.

5.MaxiMize Space. “Going vertical with shelving can help maximize unused storage space. Be sure to secure your shelving to the wall for safety,” says Harisis. Depending on the height of your child’s bed frame, underbed boxes and/or plastic storage tubs are nice for storing things like stuffed ani-mals and out-of-season clothes. Consider using simple copy paper boxes, which are great

for throwing miscellaneous toys into and then shoving in a closet. They are not only eco-friendly because you’re re-cycling them after you’ve used up the paper, but also fit under many beds so they are hidden.

6.perforM a paper pUrGe. One sample of how well your child colored within the lines at age 3 is fine, but something even more spe-cial would be a hand-drawn picture. This is a tough one for most softies, so ideas for saving space include putting pictures up in the garage instead, taking a photo of a set of pictures, giving away pictures to loved ones. “Determine some guide-lines to follow when deciding what to keep, such as keeping only original work or aced school tests. If it’s difficult to decide in the moment, collect things for a school year and then decide what to keep,” says Harisis. “Sometimes the time lapse helps relax emotional attachments.

10 Tips For Conquering Kid Clutter

I get exhausted just thinking about how much clutter kids are born with: clothes, shoes, diapers, wipes, bottles, toys, stuffed animals, paperwork and on and

on. And it only gets worse as they grow up and start to participate in activities outside the home (think ballet shoes, softball equipment, scout projects, homework papers and such). sure, you can tell your kid to clean his room, but chances are he has too much stuff and won’t even know where to start. Give a few of these tips a try to help your household recover from clutter.

house & home[ ] By Kerrie McLoughlin


7.never SearcH for SHoeS aGain! Near the door you normal-ly enter and leave the house from, place a medium-size basket for sea-sonal shoes. Out of-season shoes can be stored in a closet or in a plastic tub in the basement.

8.Be efficient. Take all kiddie DVDs and music/computer/video game CDs out of their cases. Store them in a short, round case or in a disc album that hold 8 CDs per page in sleeves.

FaCeBook FaNs WeiGh

iN // We asked our readers about their best ‘kid clutter’ tips – here’s what they said:

“Ottomans with storage. Kids can climb on them and put their own toys away!” – Lauren Mykens

Local mom, Kelly dubois creat-ed a “Lost & Found” with a tidy sign that reads: All unclaimed items will be donated to char-ity every Saturday. Kelly says, “Now, throughout each week, we place any kids’ stuff we find in the basket — and anything left on saturday will be donated to charity.”

“I have what I call an ‘inbox’ for my children in their rooms. It is a bin just inside the door where I put anything that belongs to them that I find throughout the house, any mail, or anything new. This way, they can find a place for it and they know that it has entered their “space,” rather than me putting it away. Also, it is a chore for them to keep their inbox empty.” – Julie Matthews

“We donate often to lots of thrift stores in our area. The kids can pick out 1 toy or inexpensive game in exchange for getting rid of a van full of items!” – Julie Carman Quinn

CONTINuEd >>>

30 www.GVParent.com

9.Do a pUrGe Before HoliDayS and birthdays since it’s a given that more stuff will be arriving. I like to pretend I’m moving in a week and absolutely can’t take everything in my home with me, and that prompts me to get rid of more things.

10.keep it Up. To maintain your new-found order, have the kids pick up daily, either before dinner or before bedtime and teach them that it’s easier to do it as it happens instead of letting it get out of hand (something that took me about 35 years to figure out!).

Kerrie McLoughlin is the mom of 5 and the author of “Make Money to Write About Your Kids.” Catch up with her at TheKerrieShow.com.

Tweet! Tweet! Tweet!Genesee Valley Parent is on Twitter!

Follow us at

www.twitter.com/GVParentMag


How manyyouth needmentors?

Just one…the one whoneeds you.

A message from the Boomer Mentor Project of Rochester Mentors at Lifespan.

You’ve got what it takesto make a difference in

the life of a child.

Call 271-4050 or visit www.RochesterMentors.org

32 www.GVParent.com

1.Cook. School nights can be busy. In fact, weekends can be busy too. Find a way to work cooking into your nightly routine instead of reaching for the phone and ordering a pizza. Try spending a Sunday afternoon whipping together meals for the week that you can freeze and have ready. Or plan out your week’s meals so you aren’t stuck last min-ute scrambling for ideas. Get the kids involved, too! Young kids will enjoy helping in the kitchen while you can send older teens to the store to do your shopping. Create lists of go-to favorites that you can make in a snap, but also spice things up in the kitchen by creating meals that are different, unique and pal-ate-pleasers. Being adventurous will keep you from getting stuck in a rut.

2.save. Does your family have its sites set on a new purchase or a big vacation? Create a fund and have everyone pitch in. Contributing to the cause will make everyone feel a part of the action, and will make the big day (or purchase) all the more exciting once it arrives. Depending on what you’re planning for, create a box or jar (decorate it!) or set up a savings account that you can depos-it money into weekly. Keep a tally as the money accumulates – and teach young children math along the way.

3.Learn. Learning something new as a family is a great way to bond. Try a class or pick up a book. What are your family’s interests? Arts? Crafts? Mu-sic? Sports? Cooking? History? Try something outside of your comfort zone and learn something fresh and new -- you’ll have fun and likely make friends in the process!

4.Move. Get active with your kids – whether its getting involved in a sport or just taking nightly walks or bicycle rides around your neighborhood. Get those endorphins flowing! Make a calendar or chart and let kids color in the days that you were “active” – color-code them for activities such as biking, hiking, walking, sports, etc. Watching the colored days stack up will give you everyone a sense of accomplishment and keep you on task.

5.Relax. After the holidays its easy to let friendships slip. Reconnect with old friends. Set up playdates with friends you haven’t seen in a while. Be sure to schedule kid-free nights with your significant other and gal pals – those relationships need TLC, too!

Jillian Melnyk is the Editor of Rochester Area & Genesee Valley Parent Magazine. To comment on this story email [email protected]

5 Resolutions to Keep

How often do we make New Year’s Resolutions that last all of a week or two? Trust me, I’m guilty. Last year I made a

list of 30 things I was going to complete before the year was up and I failed – I completely rough-ly half of the list. sometimes it’s setting the bar too high, and sometimes we just don’t make time for our goals. Here are five obtainable goals for you and your family for 2013. How can you use this list? You don’t have to do each one – pick some-thing off of the list and make it work for you. And don’t punish yourself if you fail, just pick yourself back up and try again, it’s all part of the process.

try this![ ] By Jillian Melnyk

GET ACTIVE WITH YOuR KIds IN THE KITCHEN! MIx IN NEW RECIPEs ANd OLd FAVORITEs.

suGGest a ChaLLeNGe! do you have something you’ve been dying to try but you haven’t been able to muster the time or energy? Or you just don’t know where to start? Let our editor try it for you! Jillian is willing to be your guinea pig! Offer her a challenge (within reason!) and she’ll try it out and dig up as much helpful information as she can to get your family started on the path towards success. send her an email at Editor@GVParent with subject line “Try This!”

8


Save the DateCamp & Summeractivity Fair 2013

Sunday, march 3eastview mall, victor

Discover all you need to know about educational opportunities & summer fun!

Gather

information about

more than 80

camps & area

programs!

Sponsored by:

Free aDmISSIONPresentations & PrizesFree reusable bags for

first 500 kids11am - 5pm

plan ahead for summer!! One Great DaY to learn

about the variety of programs for your child!

For more information, visit www.GVParent.com

or call 585-287-5330

34 www.GVParent.com

Calendaractivities • exhibits • theater • Storytelling • Shows • Family Fun • outdoor adventures

Parenting Programs • and lots more for families to do in & around rochester!

First Aid Basics12 21

MONsAT

january events

For ages 11-18, Taught by EMTs & Paramedics; this 2 hour course teaches the skills and techniques necessary to respond to a variety of first aid related emergencies. Meets requirements for boy/girl scout badges. Registration required. 1:00PM-3:00PM Gates Public Library 902 Elmgrove Road, Rochester, 14624. 247-6446 www.gateslibrary.org

Honor the legacy of dr. Martin Luther King Jr. by celebrating diversity and equality. Enjoy playful, interactive theatre shows and learn how creativity can promote equality. Enjoy a musical sign language performance by RIT multicultural group dangerous signs, and a sign language lesson from RIT’s Tri sigma sorority. strong National Museum of Play, One Manhattan square, Rochester 14607. 263-2700. www.museumofplay.org

Rochester Children’s Theatre Presents: HONK!

feb 2, 3, 9 & 10Celebrating Diversity, Featuring Art Force Five

sAT

HONK! is the story of ugly, the duckling whose odd looks incite prejudice from his family and neighbors. HONK! will treat you to equal amounts of laughter and tears. Its charm, humor and message of tolerance is perfect for the whole family. 2 pm Nazareth College Arts Center, 4245 East Ave., Rochester, 14618. 389-2170. www.roch-esterchildrenstheatre.org, artscenter.naz.edu

Acentury of classic and new disney stars are taking to the ice to share memories, laughs and excitement in

Disney on Ice celebrates 100 Years of Magic. This magical moment in entertainment history combines disney’s unforgettable stories and enthralling characters that have entertained families all over the world. The captivating production features the largest cast ever of lovable disney stars on ice – Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Buzz Lightyear, Woody, Pinocchio, Jiminy Cricket, stitch, Nemo and the Incredibles – and exciting moments from disney’s Mulan and The Lion King.

Where: Blue Cross Arena, OneWar Memorial square, Rochester, 14614.

When: Feb. 6, 7pm; Feb. 7, 7pm; Feb.8, 7pm; Feb. 9, 11am, 3pm & 7pm; Feb. 10, 1pm & 5pm.

Cost: $15-$60. (Tickets for children age 2-12 start at $10 for the 7 pm show on Thursday, Feb. 7 only)

For More Info: Call 1-800-745-3000 or visit www.ticketmaster.com, or www.disneyonice.com

Feb. 6th-10th Disney on Ice Presents: 100 Years of Magic //

suN sAT suN


01 * tuesday Kid Coaster simulator ride. Take advantage of our special simulator rides, available for a limited time. All featured rides are $1. Visitors can enjoy the Lake Ontario ride daily for free. $1 Rochester Museum & science Center, 657 East Ave. 271-1880. www.rmsc.org

02 * Wednesday Kid Coaster simulator ride. see Jan 1. $1 Rochester Museum & science Center, 657 East Ave. 271-1880. www.rmsc.org

04 * Friday moNster Jam tHuNder NatioNals. The big trucks will take over the Arena. Featuring usHRA Monster Trucks Grave digger®, Northern Nightmare , Advance Auto Parts Grinder, El Toro Loco® (Yellow), After shock and Krazy Train!! 7:30pm. $10-45 Blue Cross Arena, One War Memorial square, Rochester,758-5300. www.monsterjam.com

05 * saturday HoCHsteiN alumNi orCHestra CoNCert. Evan Meccarello directs a concert of Hochstein Youth symphony Orchestra alumni and friends, including a brass ensemble, jazz ensemble, chamber orchestra, string orchestra, percussion ensemble. 4pm. $5 general admission. Hochstein Performance Hall, 50 North Plymouth Ave. Rochester 14614. 454-4596. www.hochstein.org

Free *learN to Weave Wearable art. This open house will feature fiber artists demonstrating loom weaving, tapestry weaving and drop-spindle spinning. Ask questions, watch demos and meet the instructors. You can also learn more about classes offered.

1-4pm. The Weaving and Fiber Arts Center, Piano Works Mall, studio 1940, 349 West Commercial st. East Rochester, 14445. 377-2955. www.weaversguildofrochester.org

moNster Jam tHuNder NatioNals. see Jan 4. 7:30pm. $10-45 Blue Cross Arena, One War Memorial square, Rochester,758-5300. www.monsterjam.com

WildliFe deFeNders WildliFe eduCatioN Program. using live native and exotic species, the Wildlife defenders provide interesting and stimulating information about our animal ambassadors and encourage environmental and wildlife conservation awareness. 11am-3pm. Included with museum admission Rochester Museum & science Center, 657 East Ave. 271-1880. www.rmsc.org

06 * sunday moNster Jam tHuNder NatioNals. see Jan 4. 7:30pm. $10-45 Blue Cross Arena, One War Memorial square, Rochester,758-5300. www.monsterjam.com

07 * monday toddler booK Club at tHe stroNg. Readings of classic children’s tales followed by music and movement activities. This month: Celebrating Nursery Rhymes. shows at 10:30am, 11:30am & 12:30pm. 10:30 & 11:30am, 12:30pm. Free with admission. National Museum of Play at The strong, One Manhattan sq., Rochester, 263-2700. www.museumofplay.org

10 * thursday Free *visitatioN day-setoN CatHoliC sCHool seton Catholic school will be holding a Visitation day for prospective parents/students entering Preschool-6th. Current parents/staff will be available to tour and answer questions. Registration for the 2013-2014 school begins on February 1, 2013. 9-11am seton Catholic school, 165 Rhinecliff drive, Rochester, NY 14618. 473-6604. http://seton.dorschools.org

12 * saturday literature live: mama bear. Each Literature Live weekend offers the opportunity to meet, greet, and pose for photos with some of the most popular storybook characters of all time and enjoy related story readings. 11am-5pm. Free with admission. National Museum of Play at The strong, One Manhattan sq., Rochester, 263-2700. www.museumofplay.org

maKe a Fast FrieNd. Learn about the history of the greyhound, how they train for racing, what their careers are like, and what great pets they make! 11am-3pm. Included with museum admission Rochester Museum & science Center, 657 East Ave. 271-1880. www.rmsc.org

Nature exPlorers. 2nd through 4th graders are invited to Helmer Nature Center for a brand new program - Nature Explorers! Explore the natural world through hands on experiences. 6 sessions occur on the 2nd saturday of each month from November through April! Join us! 12:30-2:30pm Helmer Nature Center 154 Pinegrove Ave. Rochester, NY 14617. 336-3035. www.westirondequoit.org/helmer.htm

sNoWsHoe WorKsHoP. Learn how to snowshoe. It’s as easy as walking. snowshoes and instruction provided. Take a guided walk through the park. Refreshments will be served following hike. Chose one of two sessions: 10am-12pm or 1-3pm.

10am $8 Genesee County Park & Forest Interpretive Nature Center, 11095 Bethany Center Rd., E. Bethany 14054.

13 * sunday literature live: mama bear. see Jan 12. 1-5pm. Free with admission. National Museum of Play at The strong, One Manhattan sq., Rochester, 263-2700. www.museumofplay.org

tHe PoWer oF emPoWermeNt. Global Institute of Healing Alternatives for Victimization and Trauma: Focus on empowering one to have hope, faith, and courage when confronted with challenging and life-changing situations. Register by January 4th. 11:30am-3pm. $35 for Individuals, $30 for students, $25 for seniors The Inn on the Lake, 770 south Main street in Canandaigua. 545-9270. www.gihavt.org

14 * monday moNday KiCKs For ages 2 to 6. Playful learning activities designed for 2- to 6-year-olds, one Monday a month. This month: Mother Goose. 10am-2pm. Free with admission. Ages: 2yrs-6yrs. National Museum of Play at The strong, One Manhattan sq., Rochester, 263-2700. www.museumofplay.org

calendar of events • local family-friendly activities

calendar guide:

February . . . . . . . . .34support Groups . . . 35Library Programs . . . .40Ongoing . . . . . . . . .42

Junie B. JonesTYKEs Theatre @ JCCJanuary 26 & 27

36 www.GVParent.com


toddler booK Club at tHe stroNg. Readings of classic children’s tales followed by music and movement activities. This month: Celebrating Nursery Rhymes. shows at 10:30am, 11:30am & 12:30pm. 10:30 & 11:30am, 12:30pm. Free with admission. National Museum of Play at The strong, One Manhattan sq., Rochester, 263-2700. www.museumofplay.org

19 * saturday WilderNess guided HiKe. A 3-mile, rugged hike in a pristine and rarely visited area of the CNC. Hikers climb from an elevation of 1700 feet to 2200 feet- a rigorous trek that’s not for the faint-hearted! Weather permitting, snowshoes may be required and are available to rent. 10am-12:30pm. Free for RMsC members, $3/person or $10/family donation is requested for the general public. Cumming Nature Center, 6472 Gulick Road, Naples, 374-6160. www.rmsc.org

22 * tuesday Free *gates CHili Co-oP PresCHool oPeN House. Come join us for our open house! You and your child will have an opportunity to explore our classrooms, meet our teachers and ask any questions you may have. We offer 3/4 year old classes and pre K classes both mornings and afternoons. 6:30-8:00pm Gates-Chili Cooperative Nursery school 3285 Buffalo Rd. 234-1643. www.gccns.org

26 * saturday literature live: Pat the bunny. Each Literature Live weekend offers the opportunity to meet, greet, and pose for photos with some of the most popular storybook characters of all time and enjoy related story readings. 11am-5pm. Free with admission. National Museum of Play at The strong, One Manhattan sq., Rochester, 263-2700. www.museumofplay.org

Free *st. agNes KiNdergarteN rouNd uP. “Buckaroo Breakfast” at 9 am served by our rootin’ tootin’ volunteers then “Campfire sing-A-Long”!! Check out our school and discover what makes st. Agnes school the “Best in the West”! RsVP to 226-8500. 9-11 am st. Agnes school 160 Park Place Avon, NY 14414. 226-8500

tyKe’s PreseNts: JuNie b. JoNes. Outspoken, precocious, lovable Junie B. Jones stars in a colorful, funny, fast-paced musical about new friends, new glasses, sugar cookies, the annual kickball tournament, and various other first-grade angst-ridden situations. 2 & 4:30 pm. $15 Hart Theater at the JCC, 1200 Edgewood Avenue, Rochester, 723-6080. www.tykestheatre.org

Zoomobile! Come meet some of the education animals from the seneca Park zoo with a visit from the Wegmans zooMobile! 11am-3pm. Included with museum admission Rochester Museum & science Center, 657 East Ave. 271-1880. www.rmsc.org

27 * sunday

literature live: Pat tHe buNNy. see Jan 26. 1-5pm. Free with admission. National Museum of Play at The strong, One Manhattan sq., Rochester, 263-2700. www.museumofplay.org

siHir belly daNCe eNsemble. Enjoy the rhythmical art of belly dancing as the sihir Belly dance Ensemble of the university of Rochester performs this fun and intricate dance style. TBd Included with museum admission Rochester Museum & science Center, 657 East Ave. 271-1880. www.rmsc.org

tyKe’s PreseNts: JuNie b. JoNes. see Jan 26. 11am & 2pm. $15 Hart Theater at the JCC, 1200 Edgewood Avenue, Rochester, 723-6080. www.tykestheatre.org

28 * monday

toddler booK Club at tHe stroNg. Readings of classic children’s tales followed by music and movement activities. This month: Celebrating Nursery Rhymes. shows at 10:30am, 11:30am & 12:30pm. 10:30 & 11:30am, 12:30pm. Free with admission. National Museum of Play at The strong, One Manhattan sq., Rochester, 263-2700. www.museumofplay.org



The seneca Park zoo society Presents the Wegmans zooMobile! Come meet some of the education animals from the seneca Park zoo with a visit from the Wegmans zooMobile! The zooMobile focuses on different animal groups, as well as animal behaviors and adaptations. It

includes the use of live animals and biofacts to support the program messages. January 26, 11am-3pm. Rochester

Museum and science Center, 657 East Ave., Rochester 14607. 271 4320. www.rmsc.org

ZooMoBILE

February02 * saturday HoNK! HONK! is the story of ugly, the duckling whose odd looks incite prejudice from his family and neighbors. HONK! will treat you to equal amounts of laughter and tears. Its charm, humor and message of tolerance is perfect for the whole family. 2 pm Nazareth College Arts Center, 4245 East Ave., Rochester, NY 14618. 389-2170. www.rochesterchildrenstheatre.org, artscenter.naz.edu

JCC CeNter stage PreseNts: eNCore! broadway Favorites of the american songbook. Featuring favorites from Rodgers and Hammerstein, Irving Berlin, Jerome Kern, Leonard Bernstein, Rogers and Hart, George and Ira Gershwin, Lerner and Loewe, stephen sondheim and more, the ‘best of the best’ are celebrated. 8pm. $18/ students, $24/members, $26/public Hart Theater at the JCC, 1200 Edgewood Avenue, Rochester, 723-6080. www.jccrochester.org literature live: CliFFord tHe big red dog. Each Literature Live weekend offers the opportunity to meet, greet, and pose for photos with some of the most popular storybook characters of all time and enjoy related story readings. 11am-5pm. Free with admission. National Museum of Play at The strong, One Manhattan sq., Rochester, 263-2700. www.museumofplay.org

Free *stories aNd suNdries Fair. A fundraiser to benefit Cobblestone school. A storytelling performance by author and storyteller Rafe Martin followed by an expo of green products and local artisans. Tickets online or call for more information. 2-4 pm. Visual studies Workshop 31 Prince street Rochester, NY. 271-4548. www.cobblestone.org

03 * sunday HoNK! see Feb 2. 2 pm Nazareth College Arts Center, 4245 East Ave., Rochester, NY 14618. 389-2170. www.rochesterchildrenstheatre.org, artscenter.naz.edu

JCC CeNter stage PreseNts: eNCore! broadway Favorites of the american songbook. see Feb 2. 2pm. $18/ students, $24/members, $26/public Hart Theater at the JCC, 1200 Edgewood Avenue, Rochester, 723-6080. www.jccrochester.org

literature live: CliFFord tHe big red dog. Each Literature Live weekend offers the opportunity to meet, greet, and pose for photos with some of the most popular storybook characters of all time and enjoy related story readings. 1-5pm. Free with admission. National Museum of Play at The strong, One Manhattan sq., Rochester, 263-2700. www.museumofplay.org

rPo PreseNts: Feel tHe beat. Beatboxer shodekeh and percussion students from Hochstein school of Music. 2pm. $10/ child, $15/ adult Hochstein Performance Hall, 50 North Plymouth Ave. Rochester 14614. 454-4596. www.rpo.org

04 * monday moNday KiCKs For ages 2 to 6. Playful learning activities designed for 2- to 6-year-olds, one Monday a month. This month: Things That Go. 10am-2pm. Free with admission. Ages: 2yrs-6yrs. National Museum of Play at The strong, One Manhattan sq., Rochester, 263-2700. www.museumofplay.org

toddler booK Club at tHe stroNg. Readings of classic children’s tales followed by music and movement activities. This month: Celebrating Planes, Trains, & Automobiles. shows at 10:30am, 11:30am & 12:30pm. 10:30 & 11:30am, 12:30pm. Free with admission. National Museum of Play at The strong, One Manhattan sq., Rochester, 263-2700. www.museumofplay.org

05 * tuesday Free *NatioNal PaNCaKe day. IHOP is giving away free pancakes today to celebrate National Pancake day. The fundraiser aims to raise $3 million to kick off Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals’ 30th anniversary. All day! IHOP- participating locations. Visit www.ihoppancakeday.com for locations and to learn more.

Free *rbtl PreseNts: tHe addams Family. The Addams Family is a smash-hit musical comedy that brings the darkly delirious world of Gomez, Morticia, uncle Fester, Grandma, Wednesday, Pugsley and, of course, Lurch to spooky and spectacular life. 7:30pm. $32.50 - $67.50 Auditorium Theatre, 885 East Main st., Rochester, 800-745-3000, ticketmaster.com or http://rbtl.org http://www.rbtl.org/events.aspx?date=2/5/2013

06 * Wednesday disNey oN iCe PreseNts: 100 years oF magiC. This magical moment in entertainment history combines disney’s unforgettable stories and enthralling characters that have entertained families all over the world. The captivating production features the largest cast ever of lovable disney stars on ice. 7pm. $15-$60 Blue Cross Arena, 1 War Memorial square, Rochester, 1-800-745-3000. www.ticketmaster.com, www.disneyonice.com

rbtl PreseNts: tHe addams Family. see Feb 5. 7:30pm. $32.50 - $67.50 Auditorium Theatre, 885 East Main st., Rochester, 800-745-3000, ticketmaster.com or http://rbtl.org http://www.rbtl.org/events.aspx?date=2/5/2013

07 * thursday disNey oN iCe PreseNts: 100 years oF magiC. see Feb 6. 7pm. $15-$60 Blue Cross Arena, 1 War Memorial square, Rochester, 1-800-745-3000. www.ticketmaster.com, www.disneyonice.com


rbtl PreseNts: tHe addams Family. see Feb 5. 7:30pm. $32.50 - $67.50 Auditorium Theatre, 885 East Main st., Rochester, 800-745-3000, ticketmaster.com or http://rbtl.org http://www.rbtl.org/events.aspx?date=2/5/2013

08 * Friday disNey oN iCe PreseNts: 100 years oF magiC. see Feb 6. 7pm. $15-$60 Blue Cross Arena, 1 War Memorial square, Rochester, 1-800-745-3000. www.ticketmaster.com, www.disneyonice.com

rbtl PreseNts: tHe addams Family. see Feb 5. 8pm. $32.50 - $67.50 Auditorium Theatre, 885 East Main st., Rochester, 800-745-3000, ticketmaster.com or http://rbtl.org http://www.rbtl.org/events.aspx?date=2/5/2013

38 www.GVParent.com


Each Literature Live weekend offers the opportunity to meet, greet, and pose for photos with some of the most popular storybook characters of all time and enjoy related story readings. This weekend meet Mama Bear from the Berenstain Bears! saturday 11am-5pm, sunday 1-5pm. National Museum of Play at the strong, One Manhattan square Rochester 14607. 263-2700. www.museumofplay.org

09 * saturday disNey oN iCe PreseNts: 100 years oF magiC- morning show. see Feb 6. 11am. $15-$60 Blue Cross Arena, 1 War Memorial square, Rochester, 1-800-745-3000. www.ticketmaster.com, www.disneyonice.com

disNey oN iCe PreseNts: 100 years oF magiC- afternoon show. see Feb 6. 3pm. $15-$60 Blue Cross Arena, 1 War Memorial square, Rochester, 1-800-745-3000. www.ticketmaster.com, www.disneyonice.com

disNey oN iCe PreseNts: 100 years oF magiC- evening show. see Feb 6. 7pm. $15-$60 Blue Cross Arena, 1 War Memorial square, Rochester, 1-800-745-3000. www.ticketmaster.com, www.disneyonice.com

HoNK! afternoon show see Feb 2. 2 pm, 7 pm. Nazareth College Arts Center, 4245 East Ave., Rochester, NY 14618. 389-2170. www.rochesterchildrenstheatre.org, artscenter.naz.edu


Nature exPlorers. 2nd through 4th graders are invited to Helmer Nature Center for a brand new program - Nature Explorers! Explore the natural world through hands on experiences. 6 sessions occur on the 2nd saturday of each month from November through April! Join us! 12:30-2:30pm Helmer Nature Center 154 Pinegrove Ave. Rochester, NY 14617. 336-3035. www.westirondequoit.org/helmer.htm

rbtl PreseNts: tHe addams Family. evening show see Feb 5. 2pm.8pm. $32.50 - $67.50 Auditorium Theatre, 885 East Main st., Rochester, 800-745-3000, ticketmaster.com or http://rbtl.org http://www.rbtl.org/events.aspx?date=2/5/2013

tyKe’s PreseNts: sNoW WHite aNd tHe seveN dWarFs. First show Enjoy this classic fairy tale adventure and all of its excitement, friendship and love as portrayed by local children ages 5 and up. 1 & 3:30 pm $11-15. Hart Theater at

the JCC, 1200 Edgewood Avenue, Rochester, 723-6080. www.tykestheatre.org

10 * Sunday disNey oN iCe PreseNts: 100 years oF magiC- afternoon show. see Feb 6. 1pm. $15-$60 Blue Cross Arena, 1 War Memorial square, Rochester, 1-800-745-3000. www.ticketmaster.com, www.disneyonice.com

disNey oN iCe PreseNts: 100 years oF magiC- evening show. see Feb 6. 5pm. $15-$60 Blue Cross Arena, 1 War Memorial square, Rochester, 1-800-745-3000. www.ticketmaster.com, www.disneyonice.com

HoNK! evening show HONK! is the story of ugly, the duckling whose odd looks incite prejudice from his family and neighbors. HONK! will treat you to equal amounts of laughter and tears. Its charm, humor and message of tolerance is perfect for the whole family. 2pm. Nazareth College Arts Center, 4245 East Ave., Rochester, NY 14618. 389-2170. www.rochesterchildrenstheatre.org, artscenter.naz.edu

JCC CeNter stage PreseNts: eNCore! broadway Favorites of the american songbook. Featuring favorites from Rodgers and Hammerstein, Irving Berlin, Jerome Kern, Leonard Bernstein, Rogers and Hart, George and Ira Gershwin, Lerner and Loewe, stephen sondheim and more, the ‘best of the best’ are celebrated. 8pm. $18/ students, $24/members, $26/public Hart Theater at the JCC, 1200 Edgewood Avenue, Rochester, 723-6080. www.jccrochester.org

rbtl PreseNts: tHe addams Family. afternoon show see Feb 5. 1pm., 6:30pm. $32.50 - $67.50 Auditorium Theatre, 885 East Main st., Rochester, 800-745-3000, ticketmaster.com or http://rbtl.org http://www.rbtl.org/events.aspx?date=2/5/2013

11 * Monday toddler booK Club at tHe stroNg. Readings of classic children’s tales followed by music and movement activities. This month: Celebrating Planes, Trains, & Automobiles. shows at 10:30am, 11:30am & 12:30pm. 10:30 & 11:30am, 12:30pm. Free with admission. National Museum of Play at The strong, One Manhattan

LITErATUrE LIVE:BErENSTEIN BEArS



meet up!club & support groups

WANT YOuR suPPORT GROuP LIsTEd IN THIs sECTION? send information by the 10th of the month prior

to the event date to via our online submission for at www.GVParent.com

08 * Tuesday

FIRsT TIME AROuNd GROuP. This educational and social monthly support gathering is for first time mothers and their babies. An RN BsN and RNC, certified lactation consultant will be available for questions on breastfeeding and parenting. 10-11:30am. F.F. Thompson Hospital, 350 Parrish street, Canandaigua, 396-6497. www.thompsonhealth.com

MOM’s CLuB OF PENFIELd/EAsT ROCHEsTER/BRIGHTON. Offers support and socialization for stay at-home moms and children. Open to all moms in the Penfield, East Rochester and Brighton school districts. Meets the second Tuesday of month. 10-11:30 am. For location, email [email protected] 10-11:30 am [email protected]

FREE *OPERATION KIds. This program is geared toward children who will be undergoing surgery and their families. Includes a tour of the surgical Care Center, Operating Room and Post Anesthesia Care unit. RsVP required. 7pm-7:45pm. F.F. Thompson Hospital, 350 Parrish street, Canandaigua, 396-6231. www.thompsonhealth.com

09 * Wednesday

FREE *FREE sTROLLER sTRIdEs CLAss with free goodie bags to new participants! A total fitness program for moms with their babies/kids in strollers. Goodie bags include free coupons and samples from LuNA, Plum Organics, Enfamil and more. Email [email protected] to reserve your goodie bag. 8:45 a.m. Eastview Mall- Meet in front of the future Von Maur. Park at the Pottery Barn entrance. 1-800-972-7604. www.strollerstrides.com/rochester

10 * Thursday

MOMs CLuB OF CLARKsON/HAMLIN. The MOMs Club of Clarkson-Hamlin holds daily activities as well as occasional evening events for you and your child. We offer playgroups, family activities, field trips, kid’s activities, moms and couples nights out, and many other activities. 10:00 am 502-8805 www.frontiernet.net/~clarksonhamlinmomsclub/

16 * Wednesday

MOMs CLuB OF IRONdEQuOIT. Moms and kids are finding support, friendship and more. We look forward to meeting you! Meets the third Thursday of the month. 9:30-11am. Check web site or email April at [email protected].

FREE *PLuM MOM’s CLuB PLAY GROuP. Weekly play groups and monthly Moms Nights Out. see www.meetup.com/plum-moms-club-rochester for more information. 10:15 am. www.meetup.com/plum-moms-club-rochester

22 * Tuesday

OPERATION KIds. This program is geared toward children who will be undergoing surgery and their families. Includes a tour of the surgical Care Center, Operating Room and Post Anesthesia Care unit. RsVP required. 7-7:45pm. F.F. Thompson Hospital, 350 Parrish street, Canandaigua, 396-6231. www.thompsonhealth.com

23 * Wednesday

FREE *PLuM MOM’s CLuB PLAY GROuP. Weekly play groups and monthly Moms Nights Out. see www.meetup.

com/plum-moms-club-rochester for more information. 10:15am. 1-800-972-7604. www.meetup.com/plum-moms-club-rochester

30 * Wednesday

FREE *PLuM MOM’s CLuB PLAY GROuP. We do weekly play groups at 10:15 a.m. and monthly Moms Nights Out. see www.meetup.com/plum-moms-club-rochester for more information. 10:30 am 1-800-972-7604 www.meetup.com/plum-moms-club-rochester

February12 * Tuesday

FIRsT TIME AROuNd GROuP. This educational and social monthly support gathering is for first time mothers and their babies. An RN BsN and RNC, certified lactation consultant will be available for questions on breastfeeding and parenting. 10-11:30am. F.F. Thompson Hospital, 350 Parrish street, Canandaigua, 396-6497. www.thompsonhealth.com

MOM’s CLuB OF PENFIELd/EAsT ROCHEsTER/BRIGHTON. Offers support and socialization for stay at-home moms and children. Open to all moms in the Penfield, East Rochester and Brighton school districts. Meets the second Tuesday of month. 10-11:30 am. For location, email [email protected] 10-11:30 am [email protected]

OPERATION KIds. This program is geared toward children who will be undergoing surgery and their families. Includes a tour of the surgical Care Center, Operating Room and Post Anesthesia Care unit. RsVP required. 7-7:45pm. F.F. Thompson Hospital, 350 Parrish

Call 585-287-5330 to learn about advertising in the upcoming issue

what will your kids be doing this summer?

meet area summer camps, activities

& programs...* dance * sports * music *

Educational Enrichment * art * Gymnastics * special needs *

science * outdoor activities * drama & theatre *

* overnight Camp * day Camp * and much

more!

Bring the kids and plan for the perfect

summer!

18 annualCamp Fair sunday, march 3

11am - 5pm, Eastview mall in Victor

Learn more at

GVParent.com

40 www.GVParent.com


04 * Friday Film Fridays Each Friday morning, we will show a movie and serve popcorn. 10:00 am - 12:00 pm Gates Public Library 902 Elmgrove Road, Rochester, 14624. 247-6446. www.gateslibrary.org

library ebooK droP-iN HelP If you received an e-reader, tablet, or smartphone for the holidays and want to learn how to use it to access the library’s free ebooks, stop by the Gates Library meeting room. Library staff will be available to help you throughout the afternoon. 1PM - 5:30PM Gates Public Library 902 Elmgrove Road, Rochester, 14624. 247-6446 http://www.gateslibrary.org

07 * Monday

teeN WritiNg grouP. do you like to write? Have you been looking for a place to share your writing with other teens? Meet on the 1st & 3rd Monday each month to write, share, edit, and laugh. Please register. 5-6:30pm. Ages: 7-12 grade Henrietta Public Library, 455 Calkins Rd. 359-7092. www.hpl.org

08 * Tuesday

baby storytime. Babies will experience books, nursery rhymes and songs with puppets and finger plays. Registration required. 10-10:30am. Henrietta Public Library, 455 Calkins Rd. 359-7093. www.hpl.org

gates graPHiC Novel grouP. Grades 7- 12 This brand new group will meet on the second Tuesday of each month. 5:30PM-6:30PM Gates Public Library 902 Elmgrove Road, Rochester, 14624. 247-6446 www.gateslibrary.org

JuNior FrieNds oF tHe gates PubliC library. Junior Friends are a group of volunteers who meet

year-round and help the library with different activities such as: book sales, parties, bulletin board displays and many more exciting things. We also get involved with community service activities. 4:00PM-5:30PM Gates Public Library 902 Elmgrove Road, Rochester, 14624. 247-6446 www.gateslibrary.org

teeN advisory board. Come and be a part of the Teen Advisory Board. Grades 7-12. No registration. 6-7pm. Henrietta Public Library, 455 Calkins Rd. 359-7093. www.hpl.org

10 * Thursday


ProteCtiNg yourselF agaiNst Fraud aNd ideNtity tHeFt. Tina Longwell presents critical information. 6:30-8:30pm. Henrietta Public Library, 455 Calkins Rd. 359-7092. www.hpl.org

sit, KNit & stitCH. Bring and work on your own project and enjoy the company of others who enjoy needlecraft like knitting, stitching and crocheting. Registration is not required. Bring your own snack or beverage if you wish. Gates Public Library 902 Elmgrove Road, Rochester, 14624. 247-6446 www.gateslibrary.org

12 * Saturday

First aid basics. Ages 11 -18 Taught by EMTs & Paramedics; this 2 hour course teaches the skills and techniques necessary to respond to a variety of first aid related emergencies. Meets requirements for boy/girl scout badges. Registration required. 1:00PM-3:00PM Gates Public Library 902 Elmgrove Road,

Rochester, 14624. 247-6446 www.gateslibrary.org First aid basiCs- second session. Taught by EMTs & Paramedics; this course teaches the skills and techniques necessary to respond to a variety of first aid related emergencies. Meets requirements for boy/girl scout badges. Registration required. 3PM - 5PM Ages: 11-18 yrs. Gates Public Library 902 Elmgrove Road, Rochester, 14624. 247-6446 http://www.gateslibrary.org

toddler daNCe Party. Come and dance your sillies out. Toddlers and their caregivers will have a blast listening and dancing along to some of their favorite tunes. No registration. 10:30-11am. Henrietta Public Library, 455 Calkins Rd. 359-7093. www.hpl.org

14 * Monday

College Planning. Joe Lamanna will talk about the real cost of college, how to avoid overspending, and the meaning of terms such as FAFsA, PROFILE, EFC, COA, FAO, APA, and IPA. Please register. 7-8:30pm. Henrietta Public Library, 455 Calkins Rd. 359-7092. www.hpl.org

15 * Tuesday


JuNior booK Club. A book club for our youngest book lovers. Each month read and discuss a picture book and make a craft. Limit 15- registration required. 4:15-5pm. Ages: Grades K-3. Henrietta Public Library, 455 Calkins Rd. 359-7093.

www.hpl.org

17 * Thursday


gHost HuNtiNg. Local writer and ghost hunter Ralph Esposito will discuss ghosts, haunting, and some of the paranormal investigations he has conducted. Find out if the library is haunted! Please register. 7-8:30pm. Henrietta Public Library, 455 Calkins Rd. 359-7092. www.hpl.org

19 * Saturday

Family tree FuN. Bring your parents and grandparents to this fun craft program! Read a story and then make a family tree. You may bring pictures of family members to the program to make your craft but it is not required. Please register. 2-3pm. Ages: 6yrs+ Henrietta Public Library, 455 Calkins Rd. 359-7092. www.hpl.org

22 * Tuesday


eveNiNg CraFt series For tWeeNs. For ages 8-13 Craft: snowman Garland Craft All materials for the crafts will be provided free of charge. Class size is limited to 12 people, so be sure to register early at 247-6446! 6:30PM-7:30PM Gates Public Library 902 Elmgrove Road, Rochester, 14624. 247-6446 www.gateslibrary.org

Library Programs events & activities

PLEAsE NOTE: dates and times for all calendar and ongoing events are subject to change. Please call the numbers provided or visit their website to confirm event information.

To submit an event to our calendar e-mail: [email protected]

NEW: submit your calendar events online at www.gvparent.com/calendar/calendar-submit All entries must be received by the 10th of the month prior to publication in order to be considered. Events printed as space permits.

//



Check out books and Check out Fun

@ your local library:monroe County librariesVisit online: www3.libraryweb.orgArnett Branch: 310 Arnett Blvd., Rochester 14619 ................................... 428-8214

Brighton Memorial Library: 2300 Elmwood Ave., Rochester 14618 ............................. 784-5300

Brockport-Seymour Library: 161 East Ave., Rochester 14604. ....................................... 637-1050

Central Library (Downtown): 115 South Ave., Rochester 14604. ................................... 428-7300

Charlotte Branch: 3615 Lake Ave., Rochester 14612. .................................. 428-8216

Chili Public Library: 3333 Chili Ave., Rochester 14624..................................... 889-2200

East Rochester Public Library:111 West Elm St., Rochester 14445. ................................ 586-8302

Fairport Public Library: 1 Village Landing, Fairport 14450. ................................... 223-9091

Gates Public Library: 1605 Buffalo Rd., Rochester 14624. ................................. 247-6446

Greece Public Library: 2 Vince Tofany Blvd., Rochester 14612. .......................... 225-8951

Greece Barnard-Crossing Branch: 2780 Dewey Ave., Rochester 14616................................. 663-3357

Hamlin Public Library: 422 Clarkson-Hamlin TL Rd., Hamlin 14464. ................... 964-2320

Henrietta Public Library: 455 Calkins Rd., Henrietta 14623. ................................... 359-7092

Highland Branch: 971 South Ave., Rochester 14620. ................................... 428-8206

Irondequoit Public Library - McGraw Branch (East) : 2180 Ridge Rd. East, Rochester 14622. .......................... 336-6060

Irondequoit Public Library - Evans Branch (West): 45 Cooper Rd., Rochester 14617. .................................... 336-6062

Lincoln Branch: 851 Joseph Ave., Rochester 14621. ................................. 428-8210

Lyell Branch: 956 Lyell Ave., Rochester 14606. ..................................... 428-8218

Maplewood Branch: 1111 Dewey Ave., Rochester 14613................................. 428-8220

Mendon Public Library: 15 Monroe St., Honeoye Falls 14472. .............................. 624-6067

Monroe Branch: 809 Monroe Ave., Rochester 14607. ............................... 428-8202

Ogden Farmers’ Library: 269 Ogden Center Rd., Ogden 14559. ............................. 617-6181

Parma Public Library: 7 West Ave., Hilton 14468. .............................................. 392-8350

Penfield Public Library: 1985 Baird Rd., Penfield 14526. ....................................... 340-8720

Phillis Wheatley Branch: 33 Dr. Samuel McCree Way, Rochester 14608. ............... 428-8212

Pittsford Community Library: 24 State St., Pittsford 14534. ............................................ 248-6275

Riga (Newman) Library: 1 Village Park, Rochester 14622....................................... 293-2009

Rush Public Library: 5977 E. Henrietta Rd., Rush 14543. ................................. 533-1370

Scottsville Free Library: 28 Main St., Scottsville 14546. .......................................... 889-2023

Scottsville Free Library - Mumford Branch: 883 George St., Mumford 14511....................................... 538-6124

Sully Branch: 939 Bay St., Rochester 14609. ......................................... 428-8208

Webster Public Library: 980 Ridge Rd., Webster 14580. ........................................ 872-7075

Winton Branch: 611 Winton Rd. North, Rochester 14609. ......................... 428-8204

ontario/Wayne/Wyoming/livingston County librariesVisit online: www.owwl.orgAllens Hill Free Library: 3818 Allens Hill Rd., Bloomfield 14469

Avon Free Library. 143 Genesee St., Avon, 14414

Bell Memorial Library. 16 East St., Nunda, 14517

Bloomfield Public Library: 9 Church St., Bloomfield 14469

Bristol Library: 6750 County Road #32, Canandaigua 14424

Caledonia Library Association. 3108 Main St., Caledonia, 14423

Clifton Springs Library: 4 Railroad Ave., Clifton Springs 14432

Dansville Public Library. 200 Main St., Dansville, 14437

Geneva Free Library: 244 Main St., Geneva 14456

Gorham Free Library: 2664 Main St., Gorham 14461

Honeoye Public Library: 8707 Main St, Honeoye 14471

Lima Public Library. 1872 Genesee St., Lima, 14485

Livonia Public Library. 2 Washington St., Livonia, 14487

Naples Library: 118 S Main St., Naples 14512

Ontario Public Library. 1850 Ridge Road, Ontario, 14519

Phelps Community Memorial Library: 15 Church St., Phelps 14532

Red Jacket Community Library: 1506 Rt. 21, Shortsville 14548

Victor Free Library: 15 W Main St., Victor 14564

Wadsworth Library. 24 Center St., Geneseo, 14454

events & activities

42 www.GVParent.com

ongoingEvents & Exhibits

In this new, highly-anticipated exhibit, museum guests are invited to fly, drive, or float anywhere their imaginations take them by creating extraordinary vehicles out of the greatest building materials of all time—LEGO bricks! The LEGO exhibit is filled with colorful backdrops, kid-friendly building activities, and eye-popping LEGO® brick sculp-tures built by LEGO Master Builders. Opens January 19th. Included with museum admission. National Museum of Play at the strong, One Manhattan sq., Rochester 14607. 263-2700. www.museumofplay.org

LEGo Bricks - Currently at the National Museum of Play at the Strong

sTRAsENBuRGH PLANETARIuM657 East Ave., Rochester 14607. 271-1880. www.rmsc.org/strasenburghPlanetarium/ Check web-site or call for prices and hours

MY PLANETs. For children ages 3-5 and the adults with them, this friend-ly introduction to the planetarium features worlds in our solar system. saturdays at 10am. $8. Ages: 3-5yrs. Ends Aug 31.

sATuRdAY NIGHT LAsER sHOW. Intensely colored beams from argon and krypton lasers fill the planetarium dome with dazzling color patterns that spontaneously dance to classic rock music. shows change monthly. 9:30pm. $9-$10. Ages: 5+.

sATuRdAY suN, MOON ANd sTARs. This relaxed, enjoyable family show presents prominent constellations and takes the audience on a quick trip to the moon. show Times: confirm at rmsc.org. $8-$10.

FLY ME TO THE MOON. Fly Me to the Moon combines the Apollo 11 mission with a whimsical twist involving three tween-age flies who go along on an incredible space adventure.

RING OF FIRE. This film explores the fiery Pacific Rim, showing the geological causes of volcanoes and how people have adapted to living in their shadow. Ages 6+yrs. $3-7.

ROCHEsTER MusEuM & sCIENCE CENTER657 East Ave., Rochester 14607. 271-1880. www.rmsc.org Check website or call for prices and hours

AdVENTuRE zONE. dive to the bottom of Lake Ontario in the deep submergence Vehicle simulator. Experiment with wind currents, stream erosion, and more.

AT THE WEsTERN dOOR. The hundreds of objects dis-played show the seneca’s and Haudenosaunee’s creative response to new technologies and materi-als introduced following European Contact.

dIsCOVER OuR WEATHER. Make a cloud, measure the wind, and marvel at the power of lightning! ENERGIzE IT. What powers our bodies, cities and planet, and is neither created nor destroyed? ENERGY. ENERGIzE it brings you through a multi-sensory, highly physical experience where YOu hold the power!

ExPEdITION EARTH. Explore your connections to the natural world in this interactive natural science exhibition.

FLIGHT TO FREEdOM. Rochester’s underground Railroad. Explore stories of courageous African Americans who traveled through Rochester on their way from slavery to freedom.

HOW THINGs WORK. Through fun, hands-on investigation, find out how mechanisms such as light switches, thermostats, and traffic signals work.

KEVA PLANKs. Construct your own wooden master-piece with KEVA Planks--identical, stackable construction blocks. Blending science with art, KEVA planks bring out the designer, archi-tect and engineer in each of us. K’NEx. Be an engineer! Build trucks, towers- anything you can imagine with this colorful construction toy.

LIGHT HERE-LIGHT NOW. Have hands-on fun with light, color, and optics with mirrors, lenses, and lasers. Presented by Bausch & Lomb.

RACEWAYs. Experiment with momen-tum, friction, gravity, and acceleration as you send wooden balls looping and racing over ramps.

NATIONAL MusEuM OF PLAY AT THE sTRONG One Manhattan sq., Rochester 14607. 263-2700 or Tdd 423-0746, www.museumofplay.org Check website or call for prices and hours

AMERICAN COMIC BOOK HEROEs: THE BATTLE OF GOOd Vs. EVIL. Climb up the side of a building, make your own cape, test your superhero skills, pose for pictures with spiderman and learn more about your favorite comic book hero. BERENsTAIN BEARs: dOWN A suNNY dIRT ROAd. step into the playful world of the Berenstain’s including Main st, Bear Country school, Brother & sister Bear’s Club Houses, and the Family Tree House.

NATIONAL TOY HALL OF FAME. The prestigious hall features historic examples of current toy inductees and play stations.

CAN YOu TELL ME HOW TO GET TO sEsAME sTREET? see yourself on TV with the Muppets, drive Elmo around sesame street in a big yellow taxicab, sell movie tickets at the Circle in the square Cinema ticket booth, and more.

CELEBRATING AMERICA’s FAVORITE dOLL. The display features more than 500 examples of Barbie and her friends—plus an array of Barbie accessories.

dANCING WINGs BuTTERFLY GARdEN®. The dancing Wings Butterfly Garden team has raised the bar by introducing a variety of birds and animals into the garden to cre-ate a lively ecosystem that they have dubbed “butterfly garden 2.0.”

eGAMEREVOLuTION. An original, highly interactive exhibit that explores the history of video games and their impact on the way we play, learn, and relate to each other.

ONE HIsTORY PLACE. Amid original artifacts and reproductions, children explore mini-environments and get a taste of life as it was a century ago.

REAdING AdVENTuRELANd. step into a life-sized pop-up book and follow the Yellow Brick Road into five literary landscapes from children’s books.

suPER KIds MARKET. Cruise the aisles and fill your cart with a selection of colorful produce that looks so real, you can almost taste it. departments are filled with highly interactive stations for dramatic role-playing. THE ELAINE WILsON ANd sTRONG ExPREss TRAIN. Experience the thrill of old-fashioned train travel as the mini locomotive chugs down the track surrounded by scenic postcards from across America.



OTHER AREA ATTRACTIONs

CuMMING NATuRE CENTER: A 900-acre preserve located 40 minutes south of Rochester. $3 per person/$10 family. 6472 Gulick Rd., Naples. 374-6160, www.rmsc.org

WHEM ANKH: THE CIRCLE OF LIFE IN ANCIENT EGYPT. Travel back into the past at a time when everything from birth to death revolved around the seasons and the river of life - the Nile. The Buffalo Museum of science, 1020 Humboldt Pkwy, Buffalo. 716-896-5200 www.sciencebuff.org

CuLTuREs FOR KIds. Learn about kids from all over the world. $5. Explore & More children’s museum, 300 Gleed Ave., E. Aurora. 716-655-513. www.exploreandmore.org

TOuR THE RIEdMAN ROBOTIC MILKING CENTER. Tours available Mon-sat 11am-2pm. $2-$3. springdale Farm, 700 Colby street, spencerport. 349-2090 www.heritagechristianservices.org

THE HERsCHELL CARROusEL FACTORY MusEuM. Operates two historic carousels. 180 Thompson st., North Tonawanda, 14120. 716-693-1885 www.carrouselmuseum.org A sTEP INTO AFRICA. This state of the art exhibit, focusing on the Ngorongoro Crater region of Tanzania, is the only one of its kind in the country. Included with admission. seneca Park zoo, 2222 st. Paul st, Rochester, 14621. 336-7200. www.senecaparkzoo.org

GENEsEE COuNTRY VILLAGE & MusEuM. Meet and chat with the village potter, storekeeper, printer, tinsmith and blacksmith. speak with re-enactors and townsfolk about the clothing styles of the period and visit select pieces from the museum’s historic clothing collection. 1410 Flint Hill Rd., Mumford. 538.6822. www.gcv.org.

CORN HILL NAVIGATION. All aboard the sam Patch & Mary Jemison! These authentic tour boats embark from Pittsford and Rochester, and provide unparalleled opportunities to experience history and enjoy relaxing getaways that showcase the beauty and ingenuity of America’s cele-brated Erie Canal. For details please call 585-662-5748 or visit samandMary.org.


44 www.GVParent.com

Party Planner – everything to get the party started!

Diamonds LimoPresents “Pizza By Limo”

Featuring Mark’s Pizzeria

receive a 2-hr limo cruise, stop at apoint of interest, a 2-liter of Pepsi andthe best pizza in town! Only $99!(Sunday-Thursday)

www.diamondslimo.com533.9050

Fri. & Sat. packages, larger limos, and service outside ofMonroe County are available at an additional charge.

2/15/13


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46 www.GVParent.com

The Riedman Robotic Milking Center AT sPRINGdALE FARM

We reached the Milking Center just as a cow was entering the machine, which was the perfect opportunity for Joan, my well-informed tour guide, to explain to me exactly what was happening, as it happened. It took only a few minutes, but in that short amount of time the cow had already produced 28.6 pounds of milk! On average, a cow will produce approximately 80 pounds of milk per day – that’s almost 10 gallons! When you enter the Milking Center you might be surprised by the size of the robot, and the ease with which the cows enter and use it. You’d think it would be intimidating for an animal to willingly step into a large, noisy contraption but Joan assured me that they actually enjoy it. There are certain measures that the machine takes to ensure that the cows are comfortable and safe while they’re being milked. The machine can sense when the

cow has entered the milking area by the weight of the ani-mal, and sensors let it know when all four hooves are in place. Once the cow is in posi-tion (and happily munching on grains that are supplied as an incentive to return) the laser-guided tubes find and attach themselves to the cow’s udders. As the milking begins, you can see the white liquid passing through the clear tubes into the storage recepta-cle where it’s tested for quality and the health of the cow. If the system detects that a cow may be sick, or that there’s a problem with the milk, it automatically alerts the farmer

and the milk is discarded so as not to contaminate the rest of the milk supply. The milk that’s collected from the Milking Center is sent down the road to Colby Homestead Farms, a member of the Upstate Farms family who is responsible for provid-ing the milk to local grocery stores where it’s available to buy. Next time you see the Upstate Farms label, you’ll know there’s a good chance the milk you’re buying came from your very own commu-nity!

Natalee Kiesling is the Community Editor for Rochester Area & Genesee Valley Parent

Where it’s located: 700 Colby st. in spencerport, 14559

When it’s open: 10am- 4pm Mon-sat (enter through Visitor Education Center). Noon-4pm sundays (enter through gate near farm house). Last entrance to farm is 3:30.

special Events, Activities & Attractionsspringdale FarmWhile you’re at the farm you can also visit the other animals for a more hands-on experi-ence. The barnyard animals include horses, cows, pigs, goats, sheep, chickens, ducks, peacocks, bunnies and more. In the petting zoo, you can get up close to goats and rab-bits and on certain days you might just be lucky enough to see other animals, such as American Miniature Horses, lambs and piglets.

sheep sheering FestivalCome to the farm for this annual springtime tradition! Highlights include sheep shear-ing demonstrations, dyeing & weaving demonstrations, petting zoo, tours of the robot-ic dairy barn, fishing, wagon rides, free haircuts for children 12 & under and more!

heritage Christian Legacy mile & 5kHonor a legacy of compas-sionate care to people with developmental disabilities. Funds raised benefit Heritage Christian services Foundation. Participate in the 5K, the walk, or the virtual walk (for those not able to attend who still want to offer support). After the race/walk stay for an award ceremo-ny, live music, bounce houses, snacks and much more enter-tainment for the whole family.

For more information: Call 349-2090, visit www.heri-tagechristianservices.org, or fol-low on Twitter: @Rocspringdale

out & about[ ] By Natalee Kiesling

A robot milking a cow? It sounds like something

out of a futuristic science fiction movie, but it is very real, and lucky for us, it something we can witness for ourselves with a short drive to springdale Farm. It was there that I learned just how technologically advanced farming has become, and how little I actually knew about milk-ing cows.


48 www.GVParent.com

Visit these advertisers onlineAllendale Columbia School ~ www.allendalecolumbia.org

Archangel School ~ www.archangelschool.com

BJ Mann & Associates ~ www.bjmediationservices.com

Bounce It Out ~ www.Bounce-it-out.com

Carnival Supplies & Rental ~ www.csrs.us

Christ Clarion Comm. Preschool ~ www.christclarionpreschool.org

D.R.I.V.E.N. Lifecoaching for Women ~ www.DrivenLifeCoaching.com

Dancing with Denise ~ www.dancingwithdenise.com

Diamonds Limousine & Sedan Service ~ www.diamondslimo.com

Ellwanger-Barry Nursery School ~ ebns.org

Genesee Country Christian School ~ http://geneseecountrychristianschool.org/

Goddard School ~ www.goddardschools.com

Greece Montessori School ~ www.greecemontessori.org

Gymnastics Training Center ~ www.gtc-rochester.com

Harley School ~ www.harleyschool.org

Jeff Stewart’s Reptile Theatre ~ -

Kango Play Center & Academy ~ www.KangoPlay.com

Lollypop Farm ~ www.lollypop.org

Mall Boards ~ www.WNYOpenHouse.com

Ogden Pediatrics ~ www.ogdenpediatrics.com

Randy G. Raetz, DDS ~ www.drrandydds.com

Rochester Broadway Theatre League ~ www.rbtl.org

Rochester Children’s Theatre ~ www.rochesterchildrenstheatre.org

Rochester Clinical Research Inc ~ www.rcrclinical.com

Rochester Fencing Club ~ www.rocfencing.com

Rochester Museum & Science Center ~ www.rmsc.org

Rush Nursery School ~ rushnurseryschool.org

St. Agnes School ~ schools.dor.org/stagnes

Stepping Stones Learning ~ www.steppingstoneslearning.com

Strong ~ www.strongmuseum.org

Mary Testa, LMHC ~ www.lifepathcounseling.com

Timothy M. Draper Center for Dance Education ~ www.drapercenter.com

Total Sports Experience (Unity Health) ~ www.totalsports-experience.com

TYKEs ~ tykestheatre.org

WXXI ~ www.wxxi.org

YMCA of Greater Rochester ~ www.rochesterymca.org

Documents

Genesee Valley Parent January 2013