Today's Centennial Farewell features FREE arts and crafts programs for children at the Unitarian Universalist church and UCCCA the Arts Council on Ford Avenue, followed by a community dinner and fireworks.
The events at the UU church are led by Oneonta World of Learning, Oneonta’s Children’s Museum. 11 am to 1 pm: Traditional Storytelling by Bill Swain at the UU church on Ford Avenue, where the audience plays a part. Also: Craft Making for children—create musical instruments and noisemakers!
From there, go across the street to the Upper Catskill Community Council of the Arts at Wilber Mansion for exciting, elaborate arts activities for kids let by professional artists from 1 to 3 pm.
Community dinners will be held at the Unitarian Universalist Society (potluck) on Ford Avenue and First United Methodist Church at the corner of Chestnut and Church Streets from 4:30-6:00 p.m.
The Centennial finale concert will be offered by the Catskill Valley Wind Ensemble beginning at 6:30 in the sanctuary of the First United Methodist Church. All are invited and admission is FREE.
The highlight of the evening will be a brief but spectacular fireworks display strategically timed to begin at 20:08 (8:08 p.m.) in Neahwa Park. All events sponsored by the City of Oneonta.
Details at oneonta100.com
Happy New Year !
As a side note: Interskate-88 has (I believe) activities planned from 2-5pm for New Year's.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Sunday, December 28, 2008
kids science challenge
The Kids' Science Challenge is a nationwide competition for 3rd to 6th
graders, funded by the National Science Foundation. Kids learn about four
fun scientific fields and then submit a question, problem, or experiment to
be solved.
The scientific fields are: flavor science, water quality, skateboard
engineering, and the search for life in outer space. Winners will receive a
trip to visit and collaborate with the scientists to turn their ideas into a
reality and they'll be featured on Pulse of the Planet radio programs (
www.pulseplanet.com), Kids' Science Challenge video podcasts, or Dragonfly
TV.
The Kids' Science Challenge web site, www.kidsciencechallenge.com, includes downloadable science projects, fun videos, educational games,
and lesson plans for classroom or after-school use that are aligned to
National Science Education Standards.
The first 1000 kids to enter the competition will receive free science
activity kits. These hands-on kits include a fingerboard (mini-skateboard),
water test strips, flavor-tasting strips, and a CD with a secret coded
message from "aliens." Complete instructions are included. This is a great
opportunity for a group science learning experience.
graders, funded by the National Science Foundation. Kids learn about four
fun scientific fields and then submit a question, problem, or experiment to
be solved.
The scientific fields are: flavor science, water quality, skateboard
engineering, and the search for life in outer space. Winners will receive a
trip to visit and collaborate with the scientists to turn their ideas into a
reality and they'll be featured on Pulse of the Planet radio programs (
www.pulseplanet.com), Kids' Science Challenge video podcasts, or Dragonfly
TV.
The Kids' Science Challenge web site, www.kidsciencechallenge.com, includes downloadable science projects, fun videos, educational games,
and lesson plans for classroom or after-school use that are aligned to
National Science Education Standards.
The first 1000 kids to enter the competition will receive free science
activity kits. These hands-on kits include a fingerboard (mini-skateboard),
water test strips, flavor-tasting strips, and a CD with a secret coded
message from "aliens." Complete instructions are included. This is a great
opportunity for a group science learning experience.
Saturday, December 27, 2008
The weekend--nothing to report...
I'm sure there is something going on this weekend... or maybe the whole area is just recovering from too much turkey/ham/pie (or in our case, leg of lamb). There will be lots going on Wednesday for New Year's Eve of course--not the least of which will be Oneonta World of Learning's peace globe (currently a gooey mess in my garage... ). Stay tuned for a full report, but here's a quick preview:
Oneonta World of Learning, in cooperation with Oneonta's Centennial Committee, is providing free children's activities on Dec. 31, 2008 from 11am to 1pm at the Unitarian Universalist Society of Oneonta on Ford Ave near Main St. Everyone plays a role in some good old fashioned storytelling, followed by craft activities for all ages, including musical instruments and noise makers. A highlight will be making a New Year's wish and putting it on the globe.
Oneonta World of Learning, in cooperation with Oneonta's Centennial Committee, is providing free children's activities on Dec. 31, 2008 from 11am to 1pm at the Unitarian Universalist Society of Oneonta on Ford Ave near Main St. Everyone plays a role in some good old fashioned storytelling, followed by craft activities for all ages, including musical instruments and noise makers. A highlight will be making a New Year's wish and putting it on the globe.
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Music and Movement class offered
Music & Movement for Children
Susan Miller offers Dalcroze music through movement classes for children ages 1-4.
The classes consist of musical adventures through games, listening, singing, rhythmic movement and playing percussion instruments. The classes are held on Friday mornings at 12 Ford Avenue in Oneonta. For more information, contact Susan at zahira@localnet.com.
The class got great reviews from one local mom: "I have been taking my kids for almost a year now, and they absolutely love it. I often catch them playing games at home that they learned in music class. Parents should be prepared to participate."
"I like joy, for it is life." --Jaques Dalcroze
Susan Miller offers Dalcroze music through movement classes for children ages 1-4.
The classes consist of musical adventures through games, listening, singing, rhythmic movement and playing percussion instruments. The classes are held on Friday mornings at 12 Ford Avenue in Oneonta. For more information, contact Susan at zahira@localnet.com.
The class got great reviews from one local mom: "I have been taking my kids for almost a year now, and they absolutely love it. I often catch them playing games at home that they learned in music class. Parents should be prepared to participate."
"I like joy, for it is life." --Jaques Dalcroze
Friday, December 19, 2008
The Oneonta Christmas Lights Tour
This from Rachel: "If you want some cheap fun, take a Christmas lights tour. I recommend getting the kids all ready for bed and then put them in a toasty warm car playing quiet Christmas music. Lots of properties throughout Oneonta are decorated for the season. You can add a fun element to your tour by making it a scavenger hunt. Try to find Santa, Frosty, a snowflake, Pooh Bear (we found him!), a tree all decorated in green lights, a candy cane, a train, a penguin (we found that too!), reindeer, Rudolf, etc.. Our favorites were the house at the corner of Hudson Street and Belmont Circle, Maple Street at the intersection with Walnut Street, and 264 Chestnut Street. When you go to 264 Chestnut Street, pull over and tune your radio to 107.7. The light display is choreographed to music! If you time it right and you are lucky, the kids will be all ready to snuggle under their covers as soon as you get home."
Thursday, December 18, 2008
The weekend...!
All I can say is, it's finals week and I'm a college student. Luckily, everything is over (for better or worse) on Friday! So I will be enjoying the weekend.
Saturday Dec 20 11:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. is a Christmas party at the Oneonta Boys and Girls Club. For info: 432-1133.
Rumor has is that the Leatherstocking Historical Railroad has booked an extra holiday train for Sat. 20th--We took our kids the 13th and had a wonderful time.
Look for Christmas music Sunday, Dec 21:
11 a.m. 'Born to Die' Christmas cantata First Christian Church of South Valley. For info: 264-3055.
3 p.m. 'Sing Noel!' North Blenheim United Methodist Church. For info: 652-2162.
7 p.m. 'Sing Noel!' Jefferson United Methodist Church. For info: 652-2162.
Looking ahead:
Wed Dec 24, 7 p.m. Community Christmas Eve service at the Oneonta High School. For info: 432-5712.
There's more going on, I'm sure. I simply haven't the time to go searching this week. I'll post things as they come up.
Saturday Dec 20 11:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. is a Christmas party at the Oneonta Boys and Girls Club. For info: 432-1133.
Rumor has is that the Leatherstocking Historical Railroad has booked an extra holiday train for Sat. 20th--We took our kids the 13th and had a wonderful time.
Look for Christmas music Sunday, Dec 21:
11 a.m. 'Born to Die' Christmas cantata First Christian Church of South Valley. For info: 264-3055.
3 p.m. 'Sing Noel!' North Blenheim United Methodist Church. For info: 652-2162.
7 p.m. 'Sing Noel!' Jefferson United Methodist Church. For info: 652-2162.
Looking ahead:
Wed Dec 24, 7 p.m. Community Christmas Eve service at the Oneonta High School. For info: 432-5712.
There's more going on, I'm sure. I simply haven't the time to go searching this week. I'll post things as they come up.
Thursday, December 11, 2008
The weekend in brief
I had the opportunity to enjoy the Festival of Trees at the Soccer Hall of Fame last night during Executive Service Corps' 'Celebration of Service.' The event honored Elena's Sweet Indulgences and the West Kortright Centre, both of whom have been clients of ESC for many years. You can enjoy the festival this weekend, Thursday, Friday and Saturday, with free admission to the museum thanks to some very generous supporters. Info: Festival of Trees.
Also on the agenda:
Orpheus theater's "Crazy For You" opens this weekend with a children's showing at 10am Friday, which is specially priced at only $5 per ticket! Evening shows are at 8pm Friday and Saturday, with a 2pm matinee on Sunday. Box office: (607) 432-9392. All shows are at the Goodrich Theater, SUNY Oneonta. (My sweetheart is in the show--just look for the Italian cowboy.)
Fri Dec 12 from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. is the Annual Fox Auxiliary Christmas sale in Oneonta's Fox Hospital Skylight Room, featuring jewelry, food, florals, handcrafts and more.
At 6 p.m. Fri is the Glimmerglass Opera Guild holiday dine-around in Cooperstown at various locations throughout the village. Reservations required: 783-2272. Also in Cooperstown, from 7:30 p.m. - 10 p.m. is a Christmas dance at Cooperstown Elementary School. Call 264-8128 for info.
Sat Dec 13 is SUCO's Yuletide Festival at the College Camp. Festivities run from 1-5 PM beginning with the hunt for the Yule log. Once the Yule fire has been lit there will be a variety of activities offered in the lodge and storytelling will go on in the longhouse. There will be free refreshments and a crackling fire in the lodge. Free, everyone is welcome.
From 9am - 5pm Sat be sure to check out Greater Oneonta Historical Society's railroad exhibit at 183 Main St. Oneonta, complete with working electric train set. You won't want to miss the children's section, provided by Oneonta World of Learning (OWL)--our first real 'exhibit'! We're still adding a few activities, such as the book nook, but the Thomas the Train play set is ready for action as are the craft activites. GOHS: 432-0960.
Also Sat from 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. is the Elm Park United Methodist Church's Monthly Coffee House, 401 Chestnut St. Oneonta.
In Cooperstown on Sat: Holiday breakfast and more from 8am-12pm at the Cooperstown/Middle High School. The Cooperstown Farmers' Market is from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. The Holiday celebration runs from 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. at the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum (Admission is two items of food for the food bank). Ommegang's Belgian Christmas celebration is from 12pm to 3pm.
The William B. Ogden Memorial Library in Walton is hosting a Santa party at 11:30am on Sat. Walton will also have a living nativity (brrrr) from 4pm to 6pm.
At 10:30 a.m. Sat is a Holiday decorating workshop at the Sidney Center Branch Library. Info: 369-7500
The Franklin Free Library will be having a holiday story hour at 10am Sat, with refreshments and more.
Sat 11 a.m. at the Rogers Environmental Education Center, Sherburne, is a youth craft workshop. Adult supervision required for ages 5 and younger. For info: 674-4017.
Sat 9am-5pm is a Clothing giveaway in Guilford at the Guilford United Methodist Church. Info: 895-6325
Sat at 10 a.m. is Movie Time USA at the Masonville Branch Library; free, open to the public.
Sun Dec 14 at 3 p.m. is 'The Light of Hope', presented by Davenport Community Choir, at the Davenport Methodist Church. Free, open to the public.
Sun at 7 p.m. is the Compassionate Friends candle lighting ceremony and reception at Oneonta's First United Methodist Church. Info: 432-0160
Sun at 5 p.m. is a town-wide Christmas lighting contest in Springfield Center.
Also on the agenda:
Orpheus theater's "Crazy For You" opens this weekend with a children's showing at 10am Friday, which is specially priced at only $5 per ticket! Evening shows are at 8pm Friday and Saturday, with a 2pm matinee on Sunday. Box office: (607) 432-9392. All shows are at the Goodrich Theater, SUNY Oneonta. (My sweetheart is in the show--just look for the Italian cowboy.)
Fri Dec 12 from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. is the Annual Fox Auxiliary Christmas sale in Oneonta's Fox Hospital Skylight Room, featuring jewelry, food, florals, handcrafts and more.
At 6 p.m. Fri is the Glimmerglass Opera Guild holiday dine-around in Cooperstown at various locations throughout the village. Reservations required: 783-2272. Also in Cooperstown, from 7:30 p.m. - 10 p.m. is a Christmas dance at Cooperstown Elementary School. Call 264-8128 for info.
Sat Dec 13 is SUCO's Yuletide Festival at the College Camp. Festivities run from 1-5 PM beginning with the hunt for the Yule log. Once the Yule fire has been lit there will be a variety of activities offered in the lodge and storytelling will go on in the longhouse. There will be free refreshments and a crackling fire in the lodge. Free, everyone is welcome.
From 9am - 5pm Sat be sure to check out Greater Oneonta Historical Society's railroad exhibit at 183 Main St. Oneonta, complete with working electric train set. You won't want to miss the children's section, provided by Oneonta World of Learning (OWL)--our first real 'exhibit'! We're still adding a few activities, such as the book nook, but the Thomas the Train play set is ready for action as are the craft activites. GOHS: 432-0960.
Also Sat from 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. is the Elm Park United Methodist Church's Monthly Coffee House, 401 Chestnut St. Oneonta.
In Cooperstown on Sat: Holiday breakfast and more from 8am-12pm at the Cooperstown/Middle High School. The Cooperstown Farmers' Market is from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. The Holiday celebration runs from 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. at the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum (Admission is two items of food for the food bank). Ommegang's Belgian Christmas celebration is from 12pm to 3pm.
The William B. Ogden Memorial Library in Walton is hosting a Santa party at 11:30am on Sat. Walton will also have a living nativity (brrrr) from 4pm to 6pm.
At 10:30 a.m. Sat is a Holiday decorating workshop at the Sidney Center Branch Library. Info: 369-7500
The Franklin Free Library will be having a holiday story hour at 10am Sat, with refreshments and more.
Sat 11 a.m. at the Rogers Environmental Education Center, Sherburne, is a youth craft workshop. Adult supervision required for ages 5 and younger. For info: 674-4017.
Sat 9am-5pm is a Clothing giveaway in Guilford at the Guilford United Methodist Church. Info: 895-6325
Sat at 10 a.m. is Movie Time USA at the Masonville Branch Library; free, open to the public.
Sun Dec 14 at 3 p.m. is 'The Light of Hope', presented by Davenport Community Choir, at the Davenport Methodist Church. Free, open to the public.
Sun at 7 p.m. is the Compassionate Friends candle lighting ceremony and reception at Oneonta's First United Methodist Church. Info: 432-0160
Sun at 5 p.m. is a town-wide Christmas lighting contest in Springfield Center.
Sunday, December 7, 2008
A day in historic downtown Oneonta
I admit to dragging my feet a bit. I didn't really want to leave the house Saturday morning. But Oneonta World of Learning (OWL) is putting together the children's section of the Greater Oneonta Historical Society's railroad exhibit. While the men of the house watched Space Chimps at the Oneonta Theater, Aaron and I set up the pillows, dress-up area, craft activities and Thomas the Train play center. Meanwhile, the history center volunteers set up an electric train set, noise, steam, and all. It was really a lot of fun.
After lunch I brought the kids over to see everything. The 'exhibit' was big hit. They made signal flags and put an elaborate wooden track together (the water tower was their favorite add-on). Then they dressed up like railroad men and peered eagerly into the display while the electric train went through the tunnel. My favorite moment was when my oldest begged, "Mommy, can we stay here all day?"
A trip to the Latte Lounge and the Green Toad for live music and fresh fruit finished off a great day. I hope you'll bring your kids in next week. By then we'll hopefully have the 'book nook' finished as well as the signal lantern activity. The center is open Saturdays 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Mondays Noon to 3:00 PM (December 1-22) and Tuesdays noon to 3:00 PM.
Mark your calendar for January 10th--you won't want to miss the puppet show and railroad music!
After lunch I brought the kids over to see everything. The 'exhibit' was big hit. They made signal flags and put an elaborate wooden track together (the water tower was their favorite add-on). Then they dressed up like railroad men and peered eagerly into the display while the electric train went through the tunnel. My favorite moment was when my oldest begged, "Mommy, can we stay here all day?"
A trip to the Latte Lounge and the Green Toad for live music and fresh fruit finished off a great day. I hope you'll bring your kids in next week. By then we'll hopefully have the 'book nook' finished as well as the signal lantern activity. The center is open Saturdays 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Mondays Noon to 3:00 PM (December 1-22) and Tuesdays noon to 3:00 PM.
Mark your calendar for January 10th--you won't want to miss the puppet show and railroad music!
Friday, December 5, 2008
The Festival of Trees
Almost forgot: Tonight, Friday, December 5, is the Festival of Trees Gala at the Soccer Hall of Fame from 7:00-10:00 pm. Refreshments and fun will be provided along with excerpts from the Nutcracker performed by the Folkine Ballet School. Tickets are available online at Soccer Hall of Fame or at the door - $10/person.
Be sure to look for our Oneonta World of Learning (OWL) ornament on Executive Service Corps (ESC)'s tree!!! Rachel did a great job recreating our logo.
The radio this morning was announcing free admission to the museum during certain dates (and I think all this weekend) while the trees are on display--you will want to contact the Soccer Hall of Fame to make sure.
Be sure to look for our Oneonta World of Learning (OWL) ornament on Executive Service Corps (ESC)'s tree!!! Rachel did a great job recreating our logo.
The radio this morning was announcing free admission to the museum during certain dates (and I think all this weekend) while the trees are on display--you will want to contact the Soccer Hall of Fame to make sure.
Thursday, December 4, 2008
The weekend (holiday bazaar, anyone?)
There are a lot of events going on this weekend. We started our weekend tonight--and the holiday tree lighting ceremony downtown Oneonta was a huge hit with my kids. The older one danced on both feet while waiting in line to ride on the hay wagon. My two year old was fascinated with the Christmas tree. Many thanks to the Greater Oneonta Historical Society for handing out cocoa and cookies! The carollers also did a great job. We missed Mrs. Claus' story telling, but hopefully she'll come back next year.
Fri, from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Sat from 9am-2pm is the Annual Christmas bazaar at Oneonta's Elm Park United Methodist Church, 401 Chestnut St.; featuring homemade items, bake sale and lunch.
Fri from 1 p.m. - 6 p.m. and Sat from 10am-4pm is Cobleskill's "The Bounty of the County" third annual farmers' market in Cobleskill at the former Agway store, West Main Street. Info: (518) 234-3751.
Friday Dec 5th from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. is the Oneonta Garden Club holiday bazaar at St. James' Episcopal Church, Elm and Main streets.
The Sidney Center Branch Library is having an open house from 5:30 p.m. - 8 p.m. Friday.
Friday at 7 p.m. is the Second annual Christmas concert in Bovina Center at the United Presbyterian Church, Main Street. Info: 832-4884.
Saturday Dec 6th: "Story Laurie" will be performing at Foothills Performing Arts Center at 2pm. She is said to be great with kids. Cost$15 per family so bring everyone!
Have Breakfast with Santa and Mrs. Claus Sat from 7 a.m. - 12 p.m. in Oneonta at St. Mary's School. Info: 432-1450.
Also Sat: Cookies -n- Crafts sale 10am - 4pm at the Unitarian Universalist Society of Oneonta (UUSO) on Ford Ave. They are also offering "Parents Night Out" with babysitting by the UUSO Youth Program offered from 1-5pm (donation requested).
Sat from 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. is the Christmas tea and bazaar in Cooperstown at the Cooperstown United Methodist Church, 66 Chestnut St.
In Worcester, Sat from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. is a Christmas craft and bake sale at the Worcester United Methodist Church Social Hall. And at 11 a.m. is the Worcester PTA holiday boutique and cake walk at the Worcester Central School gymnasium.
Sat 11 a.m. in Walton is a Holiday card-making workshop at the William B. Ogden Memorial Library, 42 Gardiner Place. Info, registration: 865-5929.
The 10th annual Christmas parade in Delhi is at 11 a.m. Sat, from Main Street and Kingston Street to O'Connor Hospital. Info: 746-0591. Also in Delhi on Sat from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. is the Holiday for the Heart celebration and tree raffle at the Delaware County Historical Association, state Highway 10. Info: 746-3080.
From 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Sat is Grandma's Pantry bazaar (which sounds yummy!) in Franklin at the Franklin United Methodist Church. Also in Franklin from 2 p.m. - 7 p.m. enjoy a Christmas Stroll house tour, farmers' market and more between Main and Institute streets. Info: 829-8172. Then have a Lasagna dinner at the Franklin Central School between 4p.m. and 7 p.m. The Tree lighting in Franklin will be on Main Street from 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.with music, cookies, cocoa and Santa and Mrs. Claus. Info: 829-3311.
Live near Unadilla? The Holiday bazaar is from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sat at the First Presbyterian Church of Unadilla. From 4 p.m. - 6 p.m. is the Annual Christmas celebration at Unadilla Community Center, 246 Main St.
Sidney Center Library is featuring Movie Time USA at 10am Sat.
Yet more bazaars: Roxbury, Sat 9:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. at the Roxbury Library. Sat 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. at the Gilbertsville Baptist Church. And Sat from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. at the Portlandville United Methodist Church. Sat 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. (bazaar plus soup luncheon) at the Hartwick United Methodist Church.
11 a.m. Sat is a soy candle workshop at Rogers Environmental Education Center, state Route 80. Info, registration: 674-4017.
Sunday Dec 7th (National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day): The Greater Oneonta Historical Society will be having a candy making demonstration at 2 PM Sunday (1800s style).
SUCO's Annual Holiday Craft Show is Sunday, starting at 10 AM in the Hunt Union.
Cooperstown Sun from 2 p.m. - 4 p.m.: Children's Christmas party at the Cooperstown Fire Station. Info: 547-1073.
Sun at 3 p.m. is a Christmas cantata at the Worcester United Methodist Church.
Have breakfast with Santa from 9am-12pm Sun at the Otego Firehouse.
Or have breakfast with Santa in Oneonta at Applebee's ($5 tickets) to benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation, Sun from 8am-10am.
Looking ahead:
Mon and Tues, Dec 8 and 9, at 7pm, The Greater Oneonta Historical Society is having American Railroad panel discussions (could be interesting but get a sitter).
Fri, from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Sat from 9am-2pm is the Annual Christmas bazaar at Oneonta's Elm Park United Methodist Church, 401 Chestnut St.; featuring homemade items, bake sale and lunch.
Fri from 1 p.m. - 6 p.m. and Sat from 10am-4pm is Cobleskill's "The Bounty of the County" third annual farmers' market in Cobleskill at the former Agway store, West Main Street. Info: (518) 234-3751.
Friday Dec 5th from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. is the Oneonta Garden Club holiday bazaar at St. James' Episcopal Church, Elm and Main streets.
The Sidney Center Branch Library is having an open house from 5:30 p.m. - 8 p.m. Friday.
Friday at 7 p.m. is the Second annual Christmas concert in Bovina Center at the United Presbyterian Church, Main Street. Info: 832-4884.
Saturday Dec 6th: "Story Laurie" will be performing at Foothills Performing Arts Center at 2pm. She is said to be great with kids. Cost$15 per family so bring everyone!
Have Breakfast with Santa and Mrs. Claus Sat from 7 a.m. - 12 p.m. in Oneonta at St. Mary's School. Info: 432-1450.
Also Sat: Cookies -n- Crafts sale 10am - 4pm at the Unitarian Universalist Society of Oneonta (UUSO) on Ford Ave. They are also offering "Parents Night Out" with babysitting by the UUSO Youth Program offered from 1-5pm (donation requested).
Sat from 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. is the Christmas tea and bazaar in Cooperstown at the Cooperstown United Methodist Church, 66 Chestnut St.
In Worcester, Sat from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. is a Christmas craft and bake sale at the Worcester United Methodist Church Social Hall. And at 11 a.m. is the Worcester PTA holiday boutique and cake walk at the Worcester Central School gymnasium.
Sat 11 a.m. in Walton is a Holiday card-making workshop at the William B. Ogden Memorial Library, 42 Gardiner Place. Info, registration: 865-5929.
The 10th annual Christmas parade in Delhi is at 11 a.m. Sat, from Main Street and Kingston Street to O'Connor Hospital. Info: 746-0591. Also in Delhi on Sat from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. is the Holiday for the Heart celebration and tree raffle at the Delaware County Historical Association, state Highway 10. Info: 746-3080.
From 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Sat is Grandma's Pantry bazaar (which sounds yummy!) in Franklin at the Franklin United Methodist Church. Also in Franklin from 2 p.m. - 7 p.m. enjoy a Christmas Stroll house tour, farmers' market and more between Main and Institute streets. Info: 829-8172. Then have a Lasagna dinner at the Franklin Central School between 4p.m. and 7 p.m. The Tree lighting in Franklin will be on Main Street from 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.with music, cookies, cocoa and Santa and Mrs. Claus. Info: 829-3311.
Live near Unadilla? The Holiday bazaar is from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sat at the First Presbyterian Church of Unadilla. From 4 p.m. - 6 p.m. is the Annual Christmas celebration at Unadilla Community Center, 246 Main St.
Sidney Center Library is featuring Movie Time USA at 10am Sat.
Yet more bazaars: Roxbury, Sat 9:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. at the Roxbury Library. Sat 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. at the Gilbertsville Baptist Church. And Sat from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. at the Portlandville United Methodist Church. Sat 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. (bazaar plus soup luncheon) at the Hartwick United Methodist Church.
11 a.m. Sat is a soy candle workshop at Rogers Environmental Education Center, state Route 80. Info, registration: 674-4017.
Sunday Dec 7th (National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day): The Greater Oneonta Historical Society will be having a candy making demonstration at 2 PM Sunday (1800s style).
SUCO's Annual Holiday Craft Show is Sunday, starting at 10 AM in the Hunt Union.
Cooperstown Sun from 2 p.m. - 4 p.m.: Children's Christmas party at the Cooperstown Fire Station. Info: 547-1073.
Sun at 3 p.m. is a Christmas cantata at the Worcester United Methodist Church.
Have breakfast with Santa from 9am-12pm Sun at the Otego Firehouse.
Or have breakfast with Santa in Oneonta at Applebee's ($5 tickets) to benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation, Sun from 8am-10am.
Looking ahead:
Mon and Tues, Dec 8 and 9, at 7pm, The Greater Oneonta Historical Society is having American Railroad panel discussions (could be interesting but get a sitter).
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Kids and electronics
The EE Times reported last year that kids are being introduced to electronics at younger ages. In fact, the average age dropped from about 8 years old to about 6 1/2 years old in 2007.
"Electronics devices purchased most frequently are cell phones, digital cameras, and portable digital media players. Lower level of household purchases were noted for ... TV-to-computer video devices and satellite radios..."
Our kids have already been introduced to the computer, and (shhh) Nona picked out a Computer Cool School for them this Christmas--which is on the 'toy of the year 2008' list!
While I wouldn't trade my high speed internet for anything (except maybe a Wii), I'm a little worried that my kids will become video junkies. I see families out shopping with their kids--and the kids don't even put their hand held games down while walking from the car to the store. It troubles me to see kids watching a video at restaurants while their parents eat, although I can't blame them. Keeping kids entertained during a dinner out can be a BIG challenge.
I have decided to set aside certain times as 'unplugged'--no games, cell phones, tv, nothing (well maybe music but no head phones). If I start now, hopefully it won't be a battle when they get older. Mealtimes are one such time. Evening walks are another. I'd like to have one whole day a week set aside, but I don't know if I could stick to it myself!!!
"Electronics devices purchased most frequently are cell phones, digital cameras, and portable digital media players. Lower level of household purchases were noted for ... TV-to-computer video devices and satellite radios..."
Our kids have already been introduced to the computer, and (shhh) Nona picked out a Computer Cool School for them this Christmas--which is on the 'toy of the year 2008' list!
While I wouldn't trade my high speed internet for anything (except maybe a Wii), I'm a little worried that my kids will become video junkies. I see families out shopping with their kids--and the kids don't even put their hand held games down while walking from the car to the store. It troubles me to see kids watching a video at restaurants while their parents eat, although I can't blame them. Keeping kids entertained during a dinner out can be a BIG challenge.
I have decided to set aside certain times as 'unplugged'--no games, cell phones, tv, nothing (well maybe music but no head phones). If I start now, hopefully it won't be a battle when they get older. Mealtimes are one such time. Evening walks are another. I'd like to have one whole day a week set aside, but I don't know if I could stick to it myself!!!
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Holiday Train a hit with the whole family
Saturday's holiday train was a lot of fun. I admit, I was skeptical at first, but the kids got a kick out of bringing their canned goods to turn in, the music was fun and as the sun set, the Christmas lights on the train really stood out. The little ones have a short attention span, so we strolled along the tracks and talked a bit. The only downside? My two year old wanted to go for a ride on the train...
We went to Friendly's afterward with some friends. The kids are developing social lives of their own, and private lives about which I know only a little. It's both frightening and exciting. So far, they seem to get along pretty well with their peers, at least, as well as two and three year old's can be expected to.
According to Life Family Education.com, the fleeting friendships of the preschool years are vitally important. They recommend getting to know the parents of the preschoolers in your neighborhood and providing plenty of opportunities for your child to interact with other kids.
We went to Friendly's afterward with some friends. The kids are developing social lives of their own, and private lives about which I know only a little. It's both frightening and exciting. So far, they seem to get along pretty well with their peers, at least, as well as two and three year old's can be expected to.
According to Life Family Education.com, the fleeting friendships of the preschool years are vitally important. They recommend getting to know the parents of the preschoolers in your neighborhood and providing plenty of opportunities for your child to interact with other kids.
Friday, November 28, 2008
Holiday Train on Saturday
The Canadian Pacific Holiday Train stops in Oneonta's Neahwa Park at 4:15 pm Saturday November 29th (tomorrow)!
There will be musical performances and opportunities to give to local food banks.
Read more in the Daily Star.
There will be musical performances and opportunities to give to local food banks.
Read more in the Daily Star.
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Thanksgiving Weekend
Fri and Sat Nov 28 – 29 the Farmer's Museum will have select buildings open and staffed from 10am to 4pm with reduced price admission.
Sat Nov 29 from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. is the 'Spend the Day in Walton' craft show at Walton Grange #1454, 135 Stockton Ave. Info: 865-6132.
While you're there, see the The Library Club puppeteers present 'A Christmas Carol' at 1 p.m., at Walton's William B. Ogden Free Library, Gardiner Place.
Also Sat 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. is the American Legion Auxiliary 21st annual craft fair at the Stamford Veterans Club, state Route 10.
Sat 11 a.m. make bluebird and bat boxes at the Rogers Environmental Education Center, Sherburne, state Route 80. Info: 674-4017.
6:30 p.m. Sat is the Parade of Lights in West Winfield at the Mount Markham Middle School. Info: (315) 822-3051.
Sun from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. is the Holiday bazaar at the Laurens Fire Department; sponsored by the Ladies Auxiliary.
Looking ahead:
Mon and Tues Dec 1 and 2: Otsego County’s third experimental bobcat season opens. Apparently the big felines are thriving in the county, with twenty or more bobcats caught during the prior two years, including males, females and cubs.
Tues Dec 2 from 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. the Oneonta Community Health Center at 22 Academy St. will be offering free primary health care for low-income, uninsured adults. Info, appointment: 433-0300.
Wed Dec 3 from 6 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. is the holiday skate party at Southside Oneonta's Interskate 88; with face painting, skating santa, music,50-50 raffle and more. $5 per child benefits Toys for Tots.
Sat Nov 29 from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. is the 'Spend the Day in Walton' craft show at Walton Grange #1454, 135 Stockton Ave. Info: 865-6132.
While you're there, see the The Library Club puppeteers present 'A Christmas Carol' at 1 p.m., at Walton's William B. Ogden Free Library, Gardiner Place.
Also Sat 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. is the American Legion Auxiliary 21st annual craft fair at the Stamford Veterans Club, state Route 10.
Sat 11 a.m. make bluebird and bat boxes at the Rogers Environmental Education Center, Sherburne, state Route 80. Info: 674-4017.
6:30 p.m. Sat is the Parade of Lights in West Winfield at the Mount Markham Middle School. Info: (315) 822-3051.
Sun from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. is the Holiday bazaar at the Laurens Fire Department; sponsored by the Ladies Auxiliary.
Looking ahead:
Mon and Tues Dec 1 and 2: Otsego County’s third experimental bobcat season opens. Apparently the big felines are thriving in the county, with twenty or more bobcats caught during the prior two years, including males, females and cubs.
Tues Dec 2 from 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. the Oneonta Community Health Center at 22 Academy St. will be offering free primary health care for low-income, uninsured adults. Info, appointment: 433-0300.
Wed Dec 3 from 6 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. is the holiday skate party at Southside Oneonta's Interskate 88; with face painting, skating santa, music,50-50 raffle and more. $5 per child benefits Toys for Tots.
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Snow prints!
Last year my son, able to walk independently in the snow for the first time, declared with delight "I am making snow prints!" We made all kinds of tracks that day, even tracing out our names in the snow and making 'canyons' to walk in. This year, he's been asking who made the various footprints we find. I recommend the book 'Wild Tracks' as a kid friendly guide to what you may find (available at our own (Huntington Memorial Library).
Getting outside is tough, even for a girl like me who grew up sledding in Wyoming (you thought 15 deg F was cold). Yet it is vital, especially if your kids are in daycare or school. They aren't getting as much exercise as you may think. Getting outside as a family at the end of the day is a much better alternative to settling them down in front of the TV or even with books. According to one report, kids spend half as much time outside today compared to how much time they spent outdoors 20 years ago: No Child Left Inside.
GreenHour.org is a website encouraging everyone to give our kids one "...'Green Hour' a day -- a bit of time for unstructured play and interaction with the natural world [to] ... set them on the path toward physical, mental, and emotional well-being." They offer lots of ideas to get you started and a community page where you can share what you've discovered.
What works for us: A little aquafor or petroleum jelly can protect irritated cheeks from cold and wet conditions. Knit gloves, all the same color, can be found in packs of four (no need to panic if you lose one). I cut the excursions short before the kids start to get cold and miserable. By the way, there is nothing wrong with a quick ride in the sled after dark--it can be such a memorable experience, especially if the stars are out.
Of course, sometimes it really is too cold. That's when we pull the cushions off the couch, play Sousa marches, and get jumping.
Getting outside is tough, even for a girl like me who grew up sledding in Wyoming (you thought 15 deg F was cold). Yet it is vital, especially if your kids are in daycare or school. They aren't getting as much exercise as you may think. Getting outside as a family at the end of the day is a much better alternative to settling them down in front of the TV or even with books. According to one report, kids spend half as much time outside today compared to how much time they spent outdoors 20 years ago: No Child Left Inside.
GreenHour.org is a website encouraging everyone to give our kids one "...'Green Hour' a day -- a bit of time for unstructured play and interaction with the natural world [to] ... set them on the path toward physical, mental, and emotional well-being." They offer lots of ideas to get you started and a community page where you can share what you've discovered.
What works for us: A little aquafor or petroleum jelly can protect irritated cheeks from cold and wet conditions. Knit gloves, all the same color, can be found in packs of four (no need to panic if you lose one). I cut the excursions short before the kids start to get cold and miserable. By the way, there is nothing wrong with a quick ride in the sled after dark--it can be such a memorable experience, especially if the stars are out.
Of course, sometimes it really is too cold. That's when we pull the cushions off the couch, play Sousa marches, and get jumping.
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Thank you!!!
Oneonta World of Learning (OWL) extends a heartfelt thank you to Paintfest volunteers and sponsors along with collaborators, The Arc Otsego and Upper Catskill Community Council for the Arts. Creating an event of this scope requires a significant commitment on the part of the community as a whole. We are proud of our committed volunteers who donated personal time, energy and resources to this event.
We extend a special thank you to Oneonta Mayor, John Nader, for being a good sport and allowing us to paint him!
The Arc Otsego Oneonta Day Services was especially helpful, not only allowing the use of their facilities but for really going out of their way to make Paintfest a success.
In addition, we are grateful to:
The Turnpike and Oneonta/Cooperstown Pennysavers
Unadilla Laminated Products
The Country Club Automotive Group
Golden Artist Colors
The Daily Star
Hometown Oneonta & the Otsego-Delaware Dispatch
Stock Building Supply
L.P.Butts, Inc.
Lowe's
Wal-Mart
BJ's Wholesale Club
Southside Mall
Resident Student Organization (RSO) at SUCO
The Red Dragon Bookstore
Hartwick College Chemistry Department
Oneonta Family YMCA Jumpstart Preschool
The Oneonta Nursery School.
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Fighting for play
"So what's the big deal?" you may ask. Maybe you spend your days shuttling kids from school to soccer, to art class... and it seems like they are playing all the time. Yet early childhood educators at a recent conference worried about the loss of playtime in childhood, and predicted serious repercussions for America if the trend is not reversed.
According the article, experts are saying that children today average 8 to 12 fewer hours of free play time per week than they did in the 1980s. They predict that without "ample opportunity for forms of play that foster innovation and creative thinking ... America's children will be at a disadvantage in the global economy."
Some trends: no recess at school, more emphasis on formal learning and more time spent in structured activities, such as organized sports and after school lessons.
In the early 80's, cell phones were for rich people, the internet was for college professors, and video games were almost as big as pin ball machines. There was Sesame Street and Mr. Roger's Neighborhood and not much else on TV that was just for little kids. Times have changed, and between television, video games, text messaging, and the internet, an entire day of childhood can go by. At the same time, kids aren't allowed to run wild all over town anymore. Schools are under pressure to get their kids to pass their tests. It all adds up to less imaginative play.
Not all the change is bad: we're wearing our seat belts and bicycle helmets, quitting smoking, saving the planet... And we don't have to sit around while playtime takes a backseat either.
Opening a children's museum is a great start. Children's museums provide a place to just go play--rain or shine. A safe place to have a play date or try something new. A place to make a mess without destroying the living room carpet. Maybe not a replacement for the local sandlot--but add the kind of toys that inspire social play and creative problem solving, and you have something that meets an ancient childhood need while fitting into the world of the 21st century.
According the article, experts are saying that children today average 8 to 12 fewer hours of free play time per week than they did in the 1980s. They predict that without "ample opportunity for forms of play that foster innovation and creative thinking ... America's children will be at a disadvantage in the global economy."
Some trends: no recess at school, more emphasis on formal learning and more time spent in structured activities, such as organized sports and after school lessons.
In the early 80's, cell phones were for rich people, the internet was for college professors, and video games were almost as big as pin ball machines. There was Sesame Street and Mr. Roger's Neighborhood and not much else on TV that was just for little kids. Times have changed, and between television, video games, text messaging, and the internet, an entire day of childhood can go by. At the same time, kids aren't allowed to run wild all over town anymore. Schools are under pressure to get their kids to pass their tests. It all adds up to less imaginative play.
Not all the change is bad: we're wearing our seat belts and bicycle helmets, quitting smoking, saving the planet... And we don't have to sit around while playtime takes a backseat either.
Opening a children's museum is a great start. Children's museums provide a place to just go play--rain or shine. A safe place to have a play date or try something new. A place to make a mess without destroying the living room carpet. Maybe not a replacement for the local sandlot--but add the kind of toys that inspire social play and creative problem solving, and you have something that meets an ancient childhood need while fitting into the world of the 21st century.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
The weekend already!
Friday Nov 21st: "TALES FOR ALL, BIG & SMALL"A free family concert featuring performers from the Community Storytelling Troupe, 6:30 pm at THE HUNTING TAVERN Main St., Andes, NY. Info: 845-676-4727.
I hope you're ready for Christmas:
Sat Nov 22, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., Christmas craft fair at Fox Care Center, Oneonta.
Also Sat, 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. is the Cooperstown Farmers' Market holiday market kickoff, 101 Main St., off Pioneer Alley, Cooperstown. Info: 547-6195.
"Horton Hears a Who" will be showing bright and early Saturday morning at the Oneonta Theater, 9 am, letting out in time for the parade, of course.
Sat at 11 a.m. is Oneonta's Santa Parade on Main Street, with Santa's meeting with children at Santa's house following the parade, in Muller Plaza. For info: 432-4545.
Then, from 2 p.m. - 1:30 p.m., enjoy holiday stories with Mrs. Claus at the Greater Oneonta Historical Society History Center, 183 Main St.
Also Sat, from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. is the annual holiday bazaar at the Treadwell United Methodist Church.
If you're not yet ready for the holidays, there is also, at 10am Sat, a 'Porcupine program' at Rogers Environmental Education Center. Info: 674-4017.
Sun Nov 23 at 2 p.m. is a Kamishibai Japanese storytelling program at the Cooperstown Village Library, 22 Main St. presented by Cherry Valley-Springfield Central School students.
I hope you're ready for Christmas:
Sat Nov 22, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., Christmas craft fair at Fox Care Center, Oneonta.
Also Sat, 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. is the Cooperstown Farmers' Market holiday market kickoff, 101 Main St., off Pioneer Alley, Cooperstown. Info: 547-6195.
"Horton Hears a Who" will be showing bright and early Saturday morning at the Oneonta Theater, 9 am, letting out in time for the parade, of course.
Sat at 11 a.m. is Oneonta's Santa Parade on Main Street, with Santa's meeting with children at Santa's house following the parade, in Muller Plaza. For info: 432-4545.
Then, from 2 p.m. - 1:30 p.m., enjoy holiday stories with Mrs. Claus at the Greater Oneonta Historical Society History Center, 183 Main St.
Also Sat, from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. is the annual holiday bazaar at the Treadwell United Methodist Church.
If you're not yet ready for the holidays, there is also, at 10am Sat, a 'Porcupine program' at Rogers Environmental Education Center. Info: 674-4017.
Sun Nov 23 at 2 p.m. is a Kamishibai Japanese storytelling program at the Cooperstown Village Library, 22 Main St. presented by Cherry Valley-Springfield Central School students.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Still smoking?
With no-smoking signs at Neahwa Park in addition to local restaurants, smokers are under siege. According to the American Cancer Society, “...each day, 4,000 teens under 18 try smoking for the first time and 1,000 become regular, daily smokers.” It is said that those who start smoking before they turn 18 are the least likely to quit later in life. A parent’s good example is one of the best ways to keep kids smoke free.
Not ready to quit? Then quit or cut back for just one day—Thursday Nov 20th is the Great American Smokeout. Win a t-shirt and get more tips at ACS events.
And best wishes--it's not easy, but worth it!
Not ready to quit? Then quit or cut back for just one day—Thursday Nov 20th is the Great American Smokeout. Win a t-shirt and get more tips at ACS events.
And best wishes--it's not easy, but worth it!
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Paintfest was fun, fun, fun!
Here is some feedback from one of our participants at Paintfest last weekend:
"My husband commented to me that your event was the best-organized, most successful children's event we have ever attended in this area (and we've been here over ten years now, and have tried to take our children to almost everything that's come down the pike). He was very impressed with the variety and number of activities offered, as well as the entire organization of the day. "
Over 400 people came to Paintfest, including volunteers, parents and children! For a quick peek at the pictures visit Rafik-Shutterworks.blogspot.com. Our photographer, Raphael, has covered us for the Centennial Parade and even did a professional quality photo shoot for us, all on his own time.
"[Arc Otsego] Oneonta Day Services [where the event was held] ... deserves a standing ovation ... whenever that amount of paint is involved, it's bound to result in a big mess to be cleaned up. The fact that they allowed this event to take place in their facility is absolutely astounding, and what a true demonstration of community support it is."
"The First Annual PaintFest was a wonderful experience. It was extremely well-planned, obviously by professionals who know a lot about children and who are successful at raising support. Supplies were readily accessible and replenished frequently. The wide variety of activities were creative and well-staffed with volunteers. Having separate rooms for the different activities helped keep noise and chaos to a minimum so children weren't over-stimulated. Every last detail was thought of in advance and well-executed, from signs pointing the way to the event, to floor plans and clearly marked rooms within the building, to cleaning supplies and drying lines for the artwork, and having snacks available."
"... every child I saw was having fun. Every child's art received praise, and none of them seemed concerned with whether or not they were doing it 'right.' They all left the building with something they enjoyed making and could display proudly.My child, who has a short attention span and often wants to leave early, even asked to re-visit some of the activities he enjoyed the most. He loved being told he didn't have to worry about making a mess or getting paint on himself or his clothes, because it's hard to provide him with a space at home where he can be messy. It would be truly amazing to have a permanent place in Oneonta for children that could provide them with a similar experience any day of the year. A place for children to go explore, discover, create, have fun, and even make a mess while doing so..."
We have lots of ideas for next year! In the meantime, look for a touch of OWL at the Greater Oneonta Historical Society's upcoming railroad exhibit, and get ready for fun when OWL provides children's activities during Oneonta's New Year's festivities.
I also plan to do something new and unusual this week: get some sleep!!! But all of the extra hours have all been worth it. And if you thought Paintfest was fun, just wait until Oneonta has it's very own, permanent children's museum!
"My husband commented to me that your event was the best-organized, most successful children's event we have ever attended in this area (and we've been here over ten years now, and have tried to take our children to almost everything that's come down the pike). He was very impressed with the variety and number of activities offered, as well as the entire organization of the day. "
Over 400 people came to Paintfest, including volunteers, parents and children! For a quick peek at the pictures visit Rafik-Shutterworks.blogspot.com. Our photographer, Raphael, has covered us for the Centennial Parade and even did a professional quality photo shoot for us, all on his own time.
"[Arc Otsego] Oneonta Day Services [where the event was held] ... deserves a standing ovation ... whenever that amount of paint is involved, it's bound to result in a big mess to be cleaned up. The fact that they allowed this event to take place in their facility is absolutely astounding, and what a true demonstration of community support it is."
"The First Annual PaintFest was a wonderful experience. It was extremely well-planned, obviously by professionals who know a lot about children and who are successful at raising support. Supplies were readily accessible and replenished frequently. The wide variety of activities were creative and well-staffed with volunteers. Having separate rooms for the different activities helped keep noise and chaos to a minimum so children weren't over-stimulated. Every last detail was thought of in advance and well-executed, from signs pointing the way to the event, to floor plans and clearly marked rooms within the building, to cleaning supplies and drying lines for the artwork, and having snacks available."
"... every child I saw was having fun. Every child's art received praise, and none of them seemed concerned with whether or not they were doing it 'right.' They all left the building with something they enjoyed making and could display proudly.My child, who has a short attention span and often wants to leave early, even asked to re-visit some of the activities he enjoyed the most. He loved being told he didn't have to worry about making a mess or getting paint on himself or his clothes, because it's hard to provide him with a space at home where he can be messy. It would be truly amazing to have a permanent place in Oneonta for children that could provide them with a similar experience any day of the year. A place for children to go explore, discover, create, have fun, and even make a mess while doing so..."
We have lots of ideas for next year! In the meantime, look for a touch of OWL at the Greater Oneonta Historical Society's upcoming railroad exhibit, and get ready for fun when OWL provides children's activities during Oneonta's New Year's festivities.
I also plan to do something new and unusual this week: get some sleep!!! But all of the extra hours have all been worth it. And if you thought Paintfest was fun, just wait until Oneonta has it's very own, permanent children's museum!
Friday, November 14, 2008
The weekend already?
I apologize for not getting this out yesterday:
Holiday Bazaar, Friday 2pm-7pm, Sat 10am-2pm, Sun 12pm-4pm, Oneonta First United Methodist Church, 66 Chestnut St.
Friday Nov 14, 7:30 p.m. - 10 p.m. Doubleday Dancers harvest dance and pie night at Cooperstown Elementary School, Walnut Street. For info: 264-8128 or 547-8665.
I know everyone will be at Paintfest Saturday from 10am-2pm (bring a friend!). There will be TONs of painting activities for children of all ages, plus workshops for kids 3 and up. The location is the Arc Otsego Day Services site, 63 LOWER River Street, (follow Paintfest signs from Onieda St). Dress for a mess! It's also not too late to get into a Magic Paintbrush workshop, if you have a family member with an IEP, IFSP, Care Plan or 504 designation in place. Details: OneontaWorldOfLearning.org
Also on Saturday Nov 15 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Coffee House with Heartsong at Oneonta's Elm Park United Methodist Church, 401 Chestnut St.
Also Sat at 11 a.m. Zydeco music workshop at Walton's William B. Ogden Library, 42 Gardiner Place.
Sat 10 a.m. make art with gourds at the Rogers Environmental Education Center, state Highway 80, Sherburne; for children ages 7 and older. For info, registration: 674-4017.
Sat from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. in Gilbertsville: Christmas bazaar at The Major's Inn. For info: 783-2393 or 783-2967.
And Sat 10:30 a.m. Jigsaw puzzle holiday wreath craft project at the Schoharie Free Library. For info, registration: (518) 295-7127.
Sat 9 a.m. Farm toy show and Chinese auction at the Cherry Valley-Springfield Central School auditorium. For info; 264-3712, 264-3015 or 264-3318.
Looking ahead:
Wed Nov 19 from 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. enjoy Morning Out at the Morris Morris Village Library; hosted by the Butternut Valley Play-Group.
Holiday Bazaar, Friday 2pm-7pm, Sat 10am-2pm, Sun 12pm-4pm, Oneonta First United Methodist Church, 66 Chestnut St.
Friday Nov 14, 7:30 p.m. - 10 p.m. Doubleday Dancers harvest dance and pie night at Cooperstown Elementary School, Walnut Street. For info: 264-8128 or 547-8665.
I know everyone will be at Paintfest Saturday from 10am-2pm (bring a friend!). There will be TONs of painting activities for children of all ages, plus workshops for kids 3 and up. The location is the Arc Otsego Day Services site, 63 LOWER River Street, (follow Paintfest signs from Onieda St). Dress for a mess! It's also not too late to get into a Magic Paintbrush workshop, if you have a family member with an IEP, IFSP, Care Plan or 504 designation in place. Details: OneontaWorldOfLearning.org
Also on Saturday Nov 15 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Coffee House with Heartsong at Oneonta's Elm Park United Methodist Church, 401 Chestnut St.
Also Sat at 11 a.m. Zydeco music workshop at Walton's William B. Ogden Library, 42 Gardiner Place.
Sat 10 a.m. make art with gourds at the Rogers Environmental Education Center, state Highway 80, Sherburne; for children ages 7 and older. For info, registration: 674-4017.
Sat from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. in Gilbertsville: Christmas bazaar at The Major's Inn. For info: 783-2393 or 783-2967.
And Sat 10:30 a.m. Jigsaw puzzle holiday wreath craft project at the Schoharie Free Library. For info, registration: (518) 295-7127.
Sat 9 a.m. Farm toy show and Chinese auction at the Cherry Valley-Springfield Central School auditorium. For info; 264-3712, 264-3015 or 264-3318.
Looking ahead:
Wed Nov 19 from 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. enjoy Morning Out at the Morris Morris Village Library; hosted by the Butternut Valley Play-Group.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Workshops are filling up!
Paintfest is this Saturday from 10am-2pm!!!
The workshops are filling up, so if you have your heart send on something, send an email today: WorldOfLearning@live.com. As of today, watercolor painting at 11:30 (for 6-9 yr olds) and felt stamping at 10:30 (for 6-9 yr olds) are both full.
There will be lots of other great fun, even if you don't get into the workshop you want. I only signed my kids up for one workshop, because between the bubble painting, marble painting, string painting, ornament painting, cookie painting, pottery painting, painting to music, straw painting, and pop art painting--they will have a full day, even if they don't help Paint the Mayor (literally). All the details are at Oneonta World Of Learning.
If a family member has an IEP, IFSP, Care Plan or 504 designation, please consider signing up for Magic Paintbrush. Magic Paintbrush is a home-grown non-profit out of Binghamton that does one-of-a-kind workshops with special needs individuals and their families. Their motto: Life is Washable.
The workshops are filling up, so if you have your heart send on something, send an email today: WorldOfLearning@live.com. As of today, watercolor painting at 11:30 (for 6-9 yr olds) and felt stamping at 10:30 (for 6-9 yr olds) are both full.
There will be lots of other great fun, even if you don't get into the workshop you want. I only signed my kids up for one workshop, because between the bubble painting, marble painting, string painting, ornament painting, cookie painting, pottery painting, painting to music, straw painting, and pop art painting--they will have a full day, even if they don't help Paint the Mayor (literally). All the details are at Oneonta World Of Learning.
If a family member has an IEP, IFSP, Care Plan or 504 designation, please consider signing up for Magic Paintbrush. Magic Paintbrush is a home-grown non-profit out of Binghamton that does one-of-a-kind workshops with special needs individuals and their families. Their motto: Life is Washable.
Monday, November 10, 2008
Paint the Mayor (!)
Yes, Oneonta Mayor John Nader will be making a guest appearance at Paintfest and participating in our first Paint the Mayor project.
Paintfest is Nov 15th from 10am-2pm at 63 LOWER River St (follow the Paintfest signs from Country Club Road). You can still sign up for workshops (email WorldOfLearning@live.com ), and there will be tons of other things to do. Visit OneontaWorldOfLearning.org for all the juicy details.
There are lots of spaces open for the Magic Paintbrush events as well. Magic Paintbrush is a non-profit out of Binghamton which does phenomenal workshops with special needs individuals and their families--check it out at magicpaintbrushproject.org and spread the word.
Paintfest is Nov 15th from 10am-2pm at 63 LOWER River St (follow the Paintfest signs from Country Club Road). You can still sign up for workshops (email WorldOfLearning@live.com ), and there will be tons of other things to do. Visit OneontaWorldOfLearning.org for all the juicy details.
There are lots of spaces open for the Magic Paintbrush events as well. Magic Paintbrush is a non-profit out of Binghamton which does phenomenal workshops with special needs individuals and their families--check it out at magicpaintbrushproject.org and spread the word.
Thursday, November 6, 2008
The weekend--
Friday Nov 7, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. and Sat Nov 8, 9a.m.-12p.m is a 'Celebrate the Season' bazaar in Sidney at the United Methodist Church, 12 Liberty St., lunch served from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Also Friday, 8pm at the First United Methodist Church, Oneonta: America's Dream Chamber Artists (Free with subscription, $20 adults, $6 students) presents chamber music master works, more info at WSKG website.
And "Where in the World is Rick Marlowe? " is at the Unadilla Valley Central School Auditorium, New Berlin, more info
Saturday Nov 8 from 2 p.m. - 5 p.m. is an Old-fashioned Christmas program at the Delhi Historical Society, 47 Main St., Delhi, info: 746-2570.
Also Sat, at 10 a.m. is Movie Time USA at the Masonville Branch Library--free and open to the public.
Do something active! The Rogers Environmental Center is having Trail Trekking Sat, at 11:00 AM. "We will be searching for animal signs and keeping a careful eye out for other interesting sightings along the way." More info
Looking ahead:
Next Wed, Nov 12 at 10 a.m. is the La Leche League breast-feeding information group, at the First United Methodist Church, corner of Chestnut and Church streets in Oneonta, info 432-5984.
Also Friday, 8pm at the First United Methodist Church, Oneonta: America's Dream Chamber Artists (Free with subscription, $20 adults, $6 students) presents chamber music master works, more info at WSKG website.
And "Where in the World is Rick Marlowe? " is at the Unadilla Valley Central School Auditorium, New Berlin, more info
Saturday Nov 8 from 2 p.m. - 5 p.m. is an Old-fashioned Christmas program at the Delhi Historical Society, 47 Main St., Delhi, info: 746-2570.
Also Sat, at 10 a.m. is Movie Time USA at the Masonville Branch Library--free and open to the public.
Do something active! The Rogers Environmental Center is having Trail Trekking Sat, at 11:00 AM. "We will be searching for animal signs and keeping a careful eye out for other interesting sightings along the way." More info
Looking ahead:
Next Wed, Nov 12 at 10 a.m. is the La Leche League breast-feeding information group, at the First United Methodist Church, corner of Chestnut and Church streets in Oneonta, info 432-5984.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
“Mommy, the voting is not today!”
...said my three year old this morning, with tears in his eyes. I guess he’s tired of watching election news! To him, the best part about voting is getting a sticker.
Maybe you were at the Autumn Cafe last night, breathlessly watching the big screen, or biting your nails at home. Whoever you voted for, it’s time now to get the country working together again—a sentiment expressed by both candidates last night.
The Oneonta World of Learning (OWL) planning meeting went great, by the way. Don’t wait—sign your kids up for the Paint Fest workshops right away. There will also be plenty of things to do instead of the workshops.
Our next meeting will be the first Tuesday in December, where we will be finalizing plans for children’s activities for Oneonta’s New Year’s celebration.
Maybe you were at the Autumn Cafe last night, breathlessly watching the big screen, or biting your nails at home. Whoever you voted for, it’s time now to get the country working together again—a sentiment expressed by both candidates last night.
The Oneonta World of Learning (OWL) planning meeting went great, by the way. Don’t wait—sign your kids up for the Paint Fest workshops right away. There will also be plenty of things to do instead of the workshops.
Our next meeting will be the first Tuesday in December, where we will be finalizing plans for children’s activities for Oneonta’s New Year’s celebration.
Monday, November 3, 2008
Star watch for November
The moon is dangling beneath an absolutely brilliant star tonight--not a star, actually, but Jupiter. According to the Old Farmer's Almanac for Kids, Venus will approach Jupiter, eventually floating below it on the 29th and 30th. On the last day of the month, the crescent Moon will hang below both of them in the twilight.
Getting up early? Mercury is low in the east just before dawn (my house is surrounded by hills, so I won't be seeing it). At mid month, look for Saturn in the southeast, reaching halfway to the zenith at dawn.
Too easy star craft: go outside in the early evening and look for the moon and Jupiter (hard to miss this month). Before everybody gets cold, go back inside and color the night sky on black construction paper, using pastels (or chalk). The buttery yellow color works great. More advanced star-gazers can look for Orion or make up their own constellations.
The Cassini-Huygens Saturn Mission website features an entire section aimed at kids (although pictures of Saturn in a bath tub are hard to explain to a planet-crazed three-year-old).
The SUCO observatory's Fall 2008 Public Observing Series continues Wednesday, November 5, beginning with a film at 8:00 p.m. Observatory at the college camp info
Getting up early? Mercury is low in the east just before dawn (my house is surrounded by hills, so I won't be seeing it). At mid month, look for Saturn in the southeast, reaching halfway to the zenith at dawn.
Too easy star craft: go outside in the early evening and look for the moon and Jupiter (hard to miss this month). Before everybody gets cold, go back inside and color the night sky on black construction paper, using pastels (or chalk). The buttery yellow color works great. More advanced star-gazers can look for Orion or make up their own constellations.
The Cassini-Huygens Saturn Mission website features an entire section aimed at kids (although pictures of Saturn in a bath tub are hard to explain to a planet-crazed three-year-old).
The SUCO observatory's Fall 2008 Public Observing Series continues Wednesday, November 5, beginning with a film at 8:00 p.m. Observatory at the college camp info
Saturday, November 1, 2008
Paint Fest Schedule of Events!
I know you've marked your calendars for November 15th (10am-2pm)!!! Some of you are even meeting us Tuesday at 7pm (after you vote) for the planning meeting. But I think when you read this list of activities, you will really start to get excited:
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS for Paint Fest:
Open activities (Available while supplies last):
Bubble Painting
Marble painting
String Painting
Painting holiday ornaments
Painting cookies with edible paint
Painting pottery
Painting to music
Straw painting
Pop Art activity with Andrea House
Workshops (Space is limited to 10 kids in each of the workshops):
Water color painting with Doug Jamieson:
10:30 ages 10 and up
11:30 ages 6-9
12:30 ages 3-5
Felting with Lisa Marian
10:30- ages 3-5
11:30 ages 10 and up
12:30 ages 6-9
Felt stamping with Theresa O'Brien
10:30 ages 6-9
11:30 ages 3-5
12:30 ages 10 and up
The Magic Paintbrush Project
For Magic Paintbrush workshops, families must demonstrate a need to participate based on having an Individual Education Plan (IEP), Individual Family Services Plan (IFSP), Care Plan or by having a 504 designation in place.
We will be offering workshops at 10:30. 11:30 and 12:30.
Pre-registration is strongly recommended.
Contact Rachel at 432-3528 for more information.
You won't want to miss this one-of-a-kind experience: Magic Paintbrush Website
All the details are now posted at http://www.oneontaworldoflearning.org/, along with directions to Paint Fest and links to the Paint Fest poster. Print one out and post it at your church or local gathering place.
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS for Paint Fest:
Open activities (Available while supplies last):
Bubble Painting
Marble painting
String Painting
Painting holiday ornaments
Painting cookies with edible paint
Painting pottery
Painting to music
Straw painting
Pop Art activity with Andrea House
Workshops (Space is limited to 10 kids in each of the workshops):
Water color painting with Doug Jamieson:
10:30 ages 10 and up
11:30 ages 6-9
12:30 ages 3-5
Felting with Lisa Marian
10:30- ages 3-5
11:30 ages 10 and up
12:30 ages 6-9
Felt stamping with Theresa O'Brien
10:30 ages 6-9
11:30 ages 3-5
12:30 ages 10 and up
The Magic Paintbrush Project
For Magic Paintbrush workshops, families must demonstrate a need to participate based on having an Individual Education Plan (IEP), Individual Family Services Plan (IFSP), Care Plan or by having a 504 designation in place.
We will be offering workshops at 10:30. 11:30 and 12:30.
Pre-registration is strongly recommended.
Contact Rachel at 432-3528 for more information.
You won't want to miss this one-of-a-kind experience: Magic Paintbrush Website
All the details are now posted at http://www.oneontaworldoflearning.org/, along with directions to Paint Fest and links to the Paint Fest poster. Print one out and post it at your church or local gathering place.
Forecast for a mild winter
Now that I've read the Old Farmer's Almanac For Kids, I wish I had taken a better look at the woolly bear caterpillars that were all over our yard this fall. As I recall, they had wide brown stripes in the center with slim black stripes on the ends. That would be good news, since a wide brown stripe in the center indicates a mild winter. If the front black stripe were wide, winter would start with weeks of cold weather. It would end with weeks of cold weather if the rear black stripe were wide.
The woolly bear caterpillars will winter under bark or inside logs. In spring, they will form cocoons and later emerge as Isabella tiger moths. There are some great pictures at cirrusimage.com.
The 2009 version of the Old Farmer's Almanac promises to be a lot of fun. Their website
has some intriguing weather related information about Stonehenge, Chichen-Itza, and Chaco Canyon, with links to more detailed info.
The woolly bear caterpillars will winter under bark or inside logs. In spring, they will form cocoons and later emerge as Isabella tiger moths. There are some great pictures at cirrusimage.com.
The 2009 version of the Old Farmer's Almanac promises to be a lot of fun. Their website
has some intriguing weather related information about Stonehenge, Chichen-Itza, and Chaco Canyon, with links to more detailed info.
Friday, October 31, 2008
Haunting Huntington
Our own Huntington Memorial Library is said to be the home of Harriet Huntington, mother of Henry Huntington, who donated the land and his ancestral home to the City of Oneonta for use as a park or library. Trouble is, she's been dead for many, many years.
According to the State Times (SUCO's student newspaper), Marie Bruni, clairvoyant and director of the library, has felt Harriet's presence since the day she interviewed with the library. Harriet is described as a translucent, elderly spirit, who responds to changes within her home by making mischief, such as hiding expensive items only to let them turn up days later. The spirit has gone missing at times, once taking a year and a half hiatus to--no one knows where.
For more on this and other stories, check out "Leatherstocking Ghosts" by Lynda Lee Macken.
Our library has more to offer than you may realize: Friends of Huntington Memorial Library will deliver books free of charge to those who otherwise could not enjoy them. If you can make it to the library, consider Mid-Week Musings, a reading group which meets the second Wednesday of every month. For more: hmloneonta.org.
According to the State Times (SUCO's student newspaper), Marie Bruni, clairvoyant and director of the library, has felt Harriet's presence since the day she interviewed with the library. Harriet is described as a translucent, elderly spirit, who responds to changes within her home by making mischief, such as hiding expensive items only to let them turn up days later. The spirit has gone missing at times, once taking a year and a half hiatus to--no one knows where.
For more on this and other stories, check out "Leatherstocking Ghosts" by Lynda Lee Macken.
Our library has more to offer than you may realize: Friends of Huntington Memorial Library will deliver books free of charge to those who otherwise could not enjoy them. If you can make it to the library, consider Mid-Week Musings, a reading group which meets the second Wednesday of every month. For more: hmloneonta.org.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Halloween weekend:
Friday Oct 31, 9 am and 1pm: Volunteer tree planting in Oneonta. Meet at Dietz Street parking lot. For info, sign up: 433-2236.
At 5 p.m. Friday: Fish fry at the Oneonta Veterans Club; with live music by Just Throw Money from 8:30 to 11:30 p.m.
Also Friday: Halloween at Hogwarts! Thanks to a special agreement with the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, the Smart Community Room will be open to all young witches and wizards on Thursday October 30. From 4:00-5:30 all manner of magical crafts and confections will be available. First, get sorted into your House. Don't miss the Potions class, and Care of Magical Creatures – you'll be making your own monster to take home. You can also try your hand at the cauldron toss, make a wand, a Golden Snitch pin, and more! This special Hogwarts event is open to those aged 6 and up.
Friday evening: Halloween trick-or-treating on Main St Oneonta at participating stores, usually from 4pm-6pm.
Also, don't miss the annual Halloween Parade Friday on Main Street in Downtown Oneonta. Formation of the parade will be on Elm Street (between Main & Center) and Walnut Street (between Ford & Maple), move from Elm Street down Main Street to Chestnut Street Extension and into the parking garage. The formation area be blocked off at 6:00 p.m. and Main Street closed at 7:00 p.m. Formation to begin at 6:15 p.m., judging at 6:45 p.m. and parade at 7:00 p.m.
Sat Nov 1 12 p.m. - 3 p.m. in Cooperstown is a Stone Soup community dinner at St. Mary's Church; featuring homemade soup, bread and more, with ghost stories by Bruce Markusen.
Also Sat 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. in Norwich is the Home Bureau bazaar at the United Church of Christ, West Main Street. For info: 843-5119.
Sat in Morris from 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. is the Halloween 'booktacular' at Zion Episcopal Church parish house, Main Street; featuring book and bake sale, children's story hour at 10 a.m., games, activities, crafts and more. For info: 263-2080.
Another bazaar: Sat from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Milford American Legion Auxiliary hosts a holiday bazaar at the Legion Hall; featuring crafts, raffles, door prizes, refreshments. For info: 286-7720.
Sat 7:30 p.m: 'Traditional Songs of New York State' at the Cannon Free Library in Delhi, 40 Elm St.; with Dave Ruch. For info: 746-2662.
Rogers Environmental Education Center offers a Fall Fruit Walk at 11 am (Sherberne, state Highway 80). For info: 674-4017.
Sunday Nov 2 at 2 p.m. is the Paul Newman film series at the New York Power Authority Visitors Center, North Blenheim, state Route 30. Free, open to the public.
Looking ahead:
Don't forget to vote Tuesday Nov 4th! After you vote, stop by the Main View Gallery (next to the Oneonta fire station) at 7pm. Oneonta World of Learning (OWL) will be finalizing plans for Paint Fest! This is also a great opportunity just to meet our team and find out more about plans to create a children's museum in Oneonta.
At 5 p.m. Friday: Fish fry at the Oneonta Veterans Club; with live music by Just Throw Money from 8:30 to 11:30 p.m.
Also Friday: Halloween at Hogwarts! Thanks to a special agreement with the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, the Smart Community Room will be open to all young witches and wizards on Thursday October 30. From 4:00-5:30 all manner of magical crafts and confections will be available. First, get sorted into your House. Don't miss the Potions class, and Care of Magical Creatures – you'll be making your own monster to take home. You can also try your hand at the cauldron toss, make a wand, a Golden Snitch pin, and more! This special Hogwarts event is open to those aged 6 and up.
Friday evening: Halloween trick-or-treating on Main St Oneonta at participating stores, usually from 4pm-6pm.
Also, don't miss the annual Halloween Parade Friday on Main Street in Downtown Oneonta. Formation of the parade will be on Elm Street (between Main & Center) and Walnut Street (between Ford & Maple), move from Elm Street down Main Street to Chestnut Street Extension and into the parking garage. The formation area be blocked off at 6:00 p.m. and Main Street closed at 7:00 p.m. Formation to begin at 6:15 p.m., judging at 6:45 p.m. and parade at 7:00 p.m.
Sat Nov 1 12 p.m. - 3 p.m. in Cooperstown is a Stone Soup community dinner at St. Mary's Church; featuring homemade soup, bread and more, with ghost stories by Bruce Markusen.
Also Sat 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. in Norwich is the Home Bureau bazaar at the United Church of Christ, West Main Street. For info: 843-5119.
Sat in Morris from 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. is the Halloween 'booktacular' at Zion Episcopal Church parish house, Main Street; featuring book and bake sale, children's story hour at 10 a.m., games, activities, crafts and more. For info: 263-2080.
Another bazaar: Sat from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Milford American Legion Auxiliary hosts a holiday bazaar at the Legion Hall; featuring crafts, raffles, door prizes, refreshments. For info: 286-7720.
Sat 7:30 p.m: 'Traditional Songs of New York State' at the Cannon Free Library in Delhi, 40 Elm St.; with Dave Ruch. For info: 746-2662.
Rogers Environmental Education Center offers a Fall Fruit Walk at 11 am (Sherberne, state Highway 80). For info: 674-4017.
Sunday Nov 2 at 2 p.m. is the Paul Newman film series at the New York Power Authority Visitors Center, North Blenheim, state Route 30. Free, open to the public.
Looking ahead:
Don't forget to vote Tuesday Nov 4th! After you vote, stop by the Main View Gallery (next to the Oneonta fire station) at 7pm. Oneonta World of Learning (OWL) will be finalizing plans for Paint Fest! This is also a great opportunity just to meet our team and find out more about plans to create a children's museum in Oneonta.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Puppies for Christmas?
...unlikely at my house, but if you're even considering it, be sure to check out Home-to-Home, the ALL LOCAL pet adoption alternative.
According to Pet Place, the best pets for children under age six are guinea pigs, hamsters, gerbils, rats (what?), small birds (they recommend budgies), and fish.
A budgie, by the way, is a type of parakeet.
Turns out that rats are very sociable, love to play and can even be trained. There are hairless rats, dumbo rats, miniature rats, not to mention blue, platinum or sparkly silver rats. If you get a fancy rat, you may even win ribbons at the next rat show... But keep it down, rats like company but not chaos.
Reptiles don't make the list for young kids because they carry salmonella (I would like to add that corn snakes can live up to 20 years--that's a long commitment). Rabbits are described as temperamental.
In grade school, my niece was raising hamsters to sell (after George turned out to be Georgina, there was nothing else to be done). Sadly (for the hamsters) her best customer became her little brother, who saved 25 cents off the cost of a mouse from the pet store to feed to his corn snake. Ah, capitalism.
According to Pet Place, the best pets for children under age six are guinea pigs, hamsters, gerbils, rats (what?), small birds (they recommend budgies), and fish.
A budgie, by the way, is a type of parakeet.
Turns out that rats are very sociable, love to play and can even be trained. There are hairless rats, dumbo rats, miniature rats, not to mention blue, platinum or sparkly silver rats. If you get a fancy rat, you may even win ribbons at the next rat show... But keep it down, rats like company but not chaos.
Reptiles don't make the list for young kids because they carry salmonella (I would like to add that corn snakes can live up to 20 years--that's a long commitment). Rabbits are described as temperamental.
In grade school, my niece was raising hamsters to sell (after George turned out to be Georgina, there was nothing else to be done). Sadly (for the hamsters) her best customer became her little brother, who saved 25 cents off the cost of a mouse from the pet store to feed to his corn snake. Ah, capitalism.
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Friends wanted
Oneonta World of Learning (OWL) is now seaching for new friends on myspace--so check it out and spread the word!
www.myspace.com/oneontakids
www.myspace.com/oneontakids
Friday, October 24, 2008
More on weekend events
Things were a bit CRAZY at my house this week, and it has spilled over into the blog. I've more things to post than I had time to write about this morning. But I would like to mention:
A dear friend of mine recommends taking your little ones to Pie In the Sky out on route 7 towards Otego (before winter sets in). "It has a great corn maze/run that's free. It is small enough that we let [our two year old] go on without us, but large enough to freak me out when we could not see her anymore. Pie In The Sky is a great "autumnal" place to hang out for awhile. They also have playhouses and pumpkins to play around."
Pick A Pumpkin (www.pickapumpkin.com) near Cobleskill is also getting good reviews. "They have free hayrides, a storybook land, and is just a ton of fun. [Our friend] always plans on spending a whole day there."
While we're talking about local events, I'd like to highlight the event keeper link for the Four County Library System: http://www.eventkeeper.com/code/events.cfm?curOrg=4CLS. There are 'remind me' links as well as 'email a friend' options for each of the events. One of the events listed for this weekend is The Oxford Memorial Library Annual Haunted House--suitable for all ages, at the Oxford Memorial Library from 10am-2pm Sat Oct 25, info: 843-6146.
While you're out, pick up a Safe Kids of Otsego County Halloween and pedestrian safety kit (50 cent suggested donation) at the Fly Creek Cider Mill & Orchard Saturday, October 25th from 10:00 until 4:00. Materials include reflective Halloween bags, along with reflective stickers. For more information call 547-5256 or visit www.safekids.org.
Sunday, October 26 is of course, MALLOWEEN! Let the kids run free and gather candy! No cars to run them over! 1pm-3pm at the Southside Mall. Events include: Spooky Stories at Borders @1pm, Decorate a pumpkin, Bounce house and Costume Contest (registration @ 1pm, winner announced at 2:30).
Next week:
Yet another option for Halloween: Come celebrate Halloween at Hogwarts! Thanks to a special agreement with the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, the Smart Community Room will be open to all young witches and wizards on Thursday October 30. From 4:00-5:30 all manner of magical crafts and confections will be available. First, get sorted into your House. Don't miss the Potions class, and Care of Magical Creatures – you'll be making your own monster to take home. You can also try your hand at the cauldron toss, make a wand, a Golden Snitch pin, and more! This special Hogwarts event is open to those aged 6 and up.
October 31st: Halloween trick-or-treating on Main St Oneonta at participating stores. This is usually from 4pm-6pm.
And don't forget the annual Halloween Parade will be held on Main Street in Downtown Oneonta. Formation of the parade will be on Elm Street (between Main & Center) and Walnut Street (between Ford & Maple), move from Elm Street down Main Street to Chestnut Street Extension and into the parking garage. The formation area be blocked off at 6:00 p.m. and Main Street closed at 7:00 p.m. Formation to begin at 6:15 p.m., judging at 6:45 p.m. and parade at 7:00 p.m.
Major thanks to Robin, who made this blogpost possible!!!
A dear friend of mine recommends taking your little ones to Pie In the Sky out on route 7 towards Otego (before winter sets in). "It has a great corn maze/run that's free. It is small enough that we let [our two year old] go on without us, but large enough to freak me out when we could not see her anymore. Pie In The Sky is a great "autumnal" place to hang out for awhile. They also have playhouses and pumpkins to play around."
Pick A Pumpkin (www.pickapumpkin.com) near Cobleskill is also getting good reviews. "They have free hayrides, a storybook land, and is just a ton of fun. [Our friend] always plans on spending a whole day there."
While we're talking about local events, I'd like to highlight the event keeper link for the Four County Library System: http://www.eventkeeper.com/code/events.cfm?curOrg=4CLS. There are 'remind me' links as well as 'email a friend' options for each of the events. One of the events listed for this weekend is The Oxford Memorial Library Annual Haunted House--suitable for all ages, at the Oxford Memorial Library from 10am-2pm Sat Oct 25, info: 843-6146.
While you're out, pick up a Safe Kids of Otsego County Halloween and pedestrian safety kit (50 cent suggested donation) at the Fly Creek Cider Mill & Orchard Saturday, October 25th from 10:00 until 4:00. Materials include reflective Halloween bags, along with reflective stickers. For more information call 547-5256 or visit www.safekids.org.
Sunday, October 26 is of course, MALLOWEEN! Let the kids run free and gather candy! No cars to run them over! 1pm-3pm at the Southside Mall. Events include: Spooky Stories at Borders @1pm, Decorate a pumpkin, Bounce house and Costume Contest (registration @ 1pm, winner announced at 2:30).
Next week:
Yet another option for Halloween: Come celebrate Halloween at Hogwarts! Thanks to a special agreement with the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, the Smart Community Room will be open to all young witches and wizards on Thursday October 30. From 4:00-5:30 all manner of magical crafts and confections will be available. First, get sorted into your House. Don't miss the Potions class, and Care of Magical Creatures – you'll be making your own monster to take home. You can also try your hand at the cauldron toss, make a wand, a Golden Snitch pin, and more! This special Hogwarts event is open to those aged 6 and up.
October 31st: Halloween trick-or-treating on Main St Oneonta at participating stores. This is usually from 4pm-6pm.
And don't forget the annual Halloween Parade will be held on Main Street in Downtown Oneonta. Formation of the parade will be on Elm Street (between Main & Center) and Walnut Street (between Ford & Maple), move from Elm Street down Main Street to Chestnut Street Extension and into the parking garage. The formation area be blocked off at 6:00 p.m. and Main Street closed at 7:00 p.m. Formation to begin at 6:15 p.m., judging at 6:45 p.m. and parade at 7:00 p.m.
Major thanks to Robin, who made this blogpost possible!!!
Thursday, October 23, 2008
A brief look at weekend events
Friday, Saturday and Sunday Oct 24-26, 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. is the 10th annual Pumpkin Festival in Norwich at the East and West Parks. Stop in and carve a pumpkin--there will be music, prizes, even polka! Info: 336-1811 or www.norwichpumpkinfestival.com. Friday and Saturday Oct 24 and 25, 5 p.m. - 7 p.m., South Kortright's junior class hosts the Haunted house and trail walk , South Kortright Central School, Info: 538-9111. Friday Oct 24 at 6 p.m. is the Women of the Moose Halloween dinner in Oneonta Moose Lodge on West Broadway, featuring costume contest and cake walk.
Also Friday 7 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. is the Halloween Owl Prowl at the Landis Arboretum, Info: (518) 875-6935.
Saturday Oct 25 from 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. is the Riverside Elementary Harvest Festival in Oneonta at the Riverside Elementary School; featuring refreshments, games, activities, hay rides, pumpkin painting, a chili cook-off and more. Open to the public.
Also Saturday, 9 a.m. is the Schoharie Pumpkin Festival; featuring parade, music, vendors, food and more.
And Sat 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. is the Eighth annual Haunted Museum in Norwich at the Chenango County Historical Society Museum, 45 Rexford St. (Stop by while you are enjoying Pumpkin Fest) For info: 334-9227.
Sat 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. is a Halloween and Pedestrian Safety event at the Fly Creek Cider Mill.
And Sat 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. Glimmerglass Costume Bash in Cherry at the Limekiln Mansion, 59 Limekiln Road. For info: 547-0700, ext. 206.
North Bleneim brings a 'Scary halloween' event Sat 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. at the NYPA Visitors Center, state Route 30. For info: (800) 724-0309.
Sat 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. is also the Ninth annual Chili Fest in Toddsville at the Brookwood School, county Highway 59. Info: 547-4060.
Sat 3:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. is the Annual smorgasbord and bazaar in Richmondville at the St. Paul's Lutheran Church, 265 Main St.
And in Gilbertsville on Sat at 7 p.m. is the Community Halloween party at the Butternut Valley Grange Hall with costume contest and refreshments.
Sunday Oct 26 at 11 a.m. is the National Kidney Foundation Family Fun Day and Kidney Walk at the Alumni Fieldhouse, State University College at Oneonta. For info: 436-2633.
And don't forget Malloween!!! Sun 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. at Oneonta's Southside Mall; featuring trick-or-treating, costume contests and more.
Also Sun 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. is a Halloween party at Oneonta's First United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall; with pumpkin carving, refreshments and more.
Looking ahead to Wednesday Oct 29, 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. is Morning Out at the Morris Village Library; hosted by the Butternut Valley Play-Group. A great group of parents with young kids and a wonderful way to get to know your local community.
Also Friday 7 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. is the Halloween Owl Prowl at the Landis Arboretum, Info: (518) 875-6935.
Saturday Oct 25 from 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. is the Riverside Elementary Harvest Festival in Oneonta at the Riverside Elementary School; featuring refreshments, games, activities, hay rides, pumpkin painting, a chili cook-off and more. Open to the public.
Also Saturday, 9 a.m. is the Schoharie Pumpkin Festival; featuring parade, music, vendors, food and more.
And Sat 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. is the Eighth annual Haunted Museum in Norwich at the Chenango County Historical Society Museum, 45 Rexford St. (Stop by while you are enjoying Pumpkin Fest) For info: 334-9227.
Sat 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. is a Halloween and Pedestrian Safety event at the Fly Creek Cider Mill.
And Sat 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. Glimmerglass Costume Bash in Cherry at the Limekiln Mansion, 59 Limekiln Road. For info: 547-0700, ext. 206.
North Bleneim brings a 'Scary halloween' event Sat 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. at the NYPA Visitors Center, state Route 30. For info: (800) 724-0309.
Sat 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. is also the Ninth annual Chili Fest in Toddsville at the Brookwood School, county Highway 59. Info: 547-4060.
Sat 3:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. is the Annual smorgasbord and bazaar in Richmondville at the St. Paul's Lutheran Church, 265 Main St.
And in Gilbertsville on Sat at 7 p.m. is the Community Halloween party at the Butternut Valley Grange Hall with costume contest and refreshments.
Sunday Oct 26 at 11 a.m. is the National Kidney Foundation Family Fun Day and Kidney Walk at the Alumni Fieldhouse, State University College at Oneonta. For info: 436-2633.
And don't forget Malloween!!! Sun 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. at Oneonta's Southside Mall; featuring trick-or-treating, costume contests and more.
Also Sun 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. is a Halloween party at Oneonta's First United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall; with pumpkin carving, refreshments and more.
Looking ahead to Wednesday Oct 29, 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. is Morning Out at the Morris Village Library; hosted by the Butternut Valley Play-Group. A great group of parents with young kids and a wonderful way to get to know your local community.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Washable fun for the whole family
Plans for Paintfest are moving along swiftly! In case you haven't already marked your calendars:
WHAT: Paintfest will bring bring children and their grown-ups together through fun and unpredictable ways to paint.
WHEN: Saturday, November 15th between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
WHERE: ODS, Co. Road 8
COST: $5 suggested donation
In preparation for this event, we will be meeting at the Main View Gallery (next to the Oneonta fire station) Tuesday Nov 4th at 7pm. The public is invited to attend.
Paintfest is brought to you by Oneonta World of Learning (OWL)--the future children's museum in Oneonta--in cooperation with UCCCA and The ARC Otsego. It will feature instructional workshops led by local artists and The Magic Paintbrush Project which is specifically geared towards children with special needs and their families. Volunteer today: WorldOfLearning@live.com!
WHAT: Paintfest will bring bring children and their grown-ups together through fun and unpredictable ways to paint.
WHEN: Saturday, November 15th between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
WHERE: ODS, Co. Road 8
COST: $5 suggested donation
In preparation for this event, we will be meeting at the Main View Gallery (next to the Oneonta fire station) Tuesday Nov 4th at 7pm. The public is invited to attend.
Paintfest is brought to you by Oneonta World of Learning (OWL)--the future children's museum in Oneonta--in cooperation with UCCCA and The ARC Otsego. It will feature instructional workshops led by local artists and The Magic Paintbrush Project which is specifically geared towards children with special needs and their families. Volunteer today: WorldOfLearning@live.com!
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Wildlife Learning Co
A friend of ours provided the following feedback about the 'Owls of Upstate New York' presentation by Wildlife Learning Co (I will try not to miss the next one):
"I just attended an "owl" (not "OWL") presentation at SUCO this afternoon with my 6-year old ... [a man from Hartwick] brings rescued owls in and does talks for elementary school groups, scouts, general presentations for adults, etc."
"He brought a great horned owl, a screech owl, and a barred owl (not "barn"). He explained the behaviors and diets of each, as well as how they came to be in his care. (Owls are protected by law and cannot be kept as pets, but injured owls that cannot be released back into the wild after rehabilitation due to their injuries can be kept and shown by wildlife educators.) He brought each owl around the room so that all the audience members could get a good look, and passed around feathers of turkey vultures and owls so that we could see and feel the differences. It was a very informative and interesting presentation suitable for (almost) all ages."
"I just attended an "owl" (not "OWL") presentation at SUCO this afternoon with my 6-year old ... [a man from Hartwick] brings rescued owls in and does talks for elementary school groups, scouts, general presentations for adults, etc."
"He brought a great horned owl, a screech owl, and a barred owl (not "barn"). He explained the behaviors and diets of each, as well as how they came to be in his care. (Owls are protected by law and cannot be kept as pets, but injured owls that cannot be released back into the wild after rehabilitation due to their injuries can be kept and shown by wildlife educators.) He brought each owl around the room so that all the audience members could get a good look, and passed around feathers of turkey vultures and owls so that we could see and feel the differences. It was a very informative and interesting presentation suitable for (almost) all ages."
Monday, October 20, 2008
The Harvest
Thinking nothing what-so-ever of it, my parents took me to a farm when I was about five, where--to my horror--they slaughtered and plucked several chickens! I must have been ten years old before I would eat anything made of chicken beyond a chicken nugget. This weekend I took my kids to a farm--Willy's Farm and Cider Mill of Schenevus--but all we came home with were some bright orange pumpkins, a half gallon of cider and do-nuts for Uncle Ralph. (And some great memories.)
The separation between what we eat and where it came from (however tidy and convenient for me) isn't healthy. Pre-packaged, ready to eat foods are higher in fat, salt and preservatives, and of course, lower in nutrients. Joy of Cooking, a sort of culinary bible, recommends that "While great strides have been made in the storage of foods ... if fresh foods in good condition are available to you, choose them every time." My copy also tells you how to make a champagne fountain, throw together quick and easy lasagna or field dress a squirrel.
This is a great time of year to go out and hug a farmer, or better yet, check out one of the many local farms offering tours, fresh produce and delicious apple pies--try this link to Otsego County Farms or Maple Shade Farm in Delaware County.
Harvest celebrations date back to the dawn of time, when I suppose having food at all was probably a reason to party. Today, barring the occasional tomato shortage or food recall, fresh fruits and vegetables are available every day of the week, any season of the year. Time was when that kind of bounty existed only during the harvest; oranges at Christmas really were a treat; no one knew what a kiwi was; and maple farmers weren't just cooking up a cash crop but storing away their year's supply of sugar. Go back a century or two and you will find that cabbages, which keep well in a cool cellar, were a staple through the long winter months (can you imagine living on cabbage?) The discovery of the potato, (which originated in the mountains of South America, see History Magazine) had a huge impact on how people ate!
A great way to reconnect with where your food comes from is to cook it yourself. Highlights High Five included a make-together recipe for pumpkin soup this month: 'Ask an adult' to saute some apple slices (peeled) in butter five minutes. Stir together two cups cooked or canned pumpkin, 1 tablespoon sugar, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper and 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg. Add the apple slices and two cups of vegetable broth. Heat but do not boil. Stir in 1/2 cup of half and half just before serving.
The separation between what we eat and where it came from (however tidy and convenient for me) isn't healthy. Pre-packaged, ready to eat foods are higher in fat, salt and preservatives, and of course, lower in nutrients. Joy of Cooking, a sort of culinary bible, recommends that "While great strides have been made in the storage of foods ... if fresh foods in good condition are available to you, choose them every time." My copy also tells you how to make a champagne fountain, throw together quick and easy lasagna or field dress a squirrel.
This is a great time of year to go out and hug a farmer, or better yet, check out one of the many local farms offering tours, fresh produce and delicious apple pies--try this link to Otsego County Farms or Maple Shade Farm in Delaware County.
Harvest celebrations date back to the dawn of time, when I suppose having food at all was probably a reason to party. Today, barring the occasional tomato shortage or food recall, fresh fruits and vegetables are available every day of the week, any season of the year. Time was when that kind of bounty existed only during the harvest; oranges at Christmas really were a treat; no one knew what a kiwi was; and maple farmers weren't just cooking up a cash crop but storing away their year's supply of sugar. Go back a century or two and you will find that cabbages, which keep well in a cool cellar, were a staple through the long winter months (can you imagine living on cabbage?) The discovery of the potato, (which originated in the mountains of South America, see History Magazine) had a huge impact on how people ate!
A great way to reconnect with where your food comes from is to cook it yourself. Highlights High Five included a make-together recipe for pumpkin soup this month: 'Ask an adult' to saute some apple slices (peeled) in butter five minutes. Stir together two cups cooked or canned pumpkin, 1 tablespoon sugar, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper and 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg. Add the apple slices and two cups of vegetable broth. Heat but do not boil. Stir in 1/2 cup of half and half just before serving.
Friday, October 17, 2008
One more thing!
Tonight, Friday Oct 17th at 7:30 pm, SUCO is hosting Bill Smith – Adirondack Storyteller at the College Camp Lodge.
From the website: "BILL SMITH of Colton is widely known throughout the Adirondacks and beyond as a master of many traditional arts of the region." These include the ash splint basket making of Mohawk men. "He has concentrated on retelling traditional stories and creating new ones." In 1994 he wrote a collection of stories called Tales from the Featherbed. He has also produced six cassette recordings of his stories and songs.
From the website: "BILL SMITH of Colton is widely known throughout the Adirondacks and beyond as a master of many traditional arts of the region." These include the ash splint basket making of Mohawk men. "He has concentrated on retelling traditional stories and creating new ones." In 1994 he wrote a collection of stories called Tales from the Featherbed. He has also produced six cassette recordings of his stories and songs.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Weekend events:
And if the weather stays nice, it will be a beautiful weekend!
Tonight (Thursday Oct 16): From 5:30 p.m. - 7 p.m. take a (free) Walking Tour of Main Street with Loraine Tyler, presented by the Greater Oneonta Historical Society, meet at the History Center, 183 Main St, info: 432-0960
Fri and Sat, Oct 17-18, 5 - 7:30 p.m. in Cooperstown, take a Things That Go Bump in the Night walking tour, at the Farmer's Museum. Hourlong tours are offered each half-hour, info: 547-1450
October 17 - 19 (Friday and Saturday 8:00pm, Sunday 2:00 pm Matinee): The Out of the Woodwork Players present A Fine Monster You Are! at the Bainbridge Town Hall Theater. Info: 607-563-2582 or e-mail owptheatre@yahoo.com
Also Fri, at 6:30 p. m., The Rogers Environment Education Center (Sherburne, St Rt 80) is offering an Animals of Halloween program, with walking trails and more, info: 674-4017
7:30 p.m. Fri the Schoharie Valley Hayshakers are having western and mainstream square dance at MiddleburghHigh School, info: (518) 827-5762, Schoharie Hayshakers.
Sat Oct 18 at 2 p.m. Wildlife Learning Co and SUCO present 'Owls of Upstate New York' at the College Camp (upper East Street, Oneonta). Info: 436-3455
Saturday, October 18; 7:00 pm, at the Martin W. Kappel Theater, Norwich present a musical,
Altar Boyz. Info: 607.336.2787 info@chenangoarts.org
Also on Sat from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. is the Morris Fire Auxiliary Apple Fest and Chinese auction, info: 263-5074
Sat at 11 a.m, there is a Pumpkin Fest in Smyrna at the Wolf Mountain Nature Center with live music, tours, wolf presentation and more, info 627-6784, Wolf Center
From 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. Sat see Ziggy the tiny trick-performing horse at the Schoharie Free Library.
From 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. is the Second annual Halloween party at the Coventry Firehouse, North Road off state Highway 206.
Sunday Oct 19 from 1:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. the Oneonta Moose Lodge is holding a Harvest of Hope penny social, info: (518) 866-1208
The Edelweiss German-American Club presents Oktoberfest Sun at 2 p.m, with live music at the Schoharie Presbyterian Church education building, info: (518) 296-8491
Looking ahead:
Monday Oct 20 7 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. City of the Hills Women's Chorus performs at First United Presbyterian Church, 381 Main St., Roosevelt Avenue entrance. Info: 267-4718
And no performance would be complete without (on the same day but half an hour later) 7:30 p.m. the Midstatesmen Barbershop Harmony Chorus at the Salvation Army, River Street. Info: 278-6369.
Tonight (Thursday Oct 16): From 5:30 p.m. - 7 p.m. take a (free) Walking Tour of Main Street with Loraine Tyler, presented by the Greater Oneonta Historical Society, meet at the History Center, 183 Main St, info: 432-0960
Fri and Sat, Oct 17-18, 5 - 7:30 p.m. in Cooperstown, take a Things That Go Bump in the Night walking tour, at the Farmer's Museum. Hourlong tours are offered each half-hour, info: 547-1450
October 17 - 19 (Friday and Saturday 8:00pm, Sunday 2:00 pm Matinee): The Out of the Woodwork Players present A Fine Monster You Are! at the Bainbridge Town Hall Theater. Info: 607-563-2582 or e-mail owptheatre@yahoo.com
Also Fri, at 6:30 p. m., The Rogers Environment Education Center (Sherburne, St Rt 80) is offering an Animals of Halloween program, with walking trails and more, info: 674-4017
7:30 p.m. Fri the Schoharie Valley Hayshakers are having western and mainstream square dance at MiddleburghHigh School, info: (518) 827-5762, Schoharie Hayshakers.
Sat Oct 18 at 2 p.m. Wildlife Learning Co and SUCO present 'Owls of Upstate New York' at the College Camp (upper East Street, Oneonta). Info: 436-3455
Saturday, October 18; 7:00 pm, at the Martin W. Kappel Theater, Norwich present a musical,
Altar Boyz. Info: 607.336.2787 info@chenangoarts.org
Also on Sat from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. is the Morris Fire Auxiliary Apple Fest and Chinese auction, info: 263-5074
Sat at 11 a.m, there is a Pumpkin Fest in Smyrna at the Wolf Mountain Nature Center with live music, tours, wolf presentation and more, info 627-6784, Wolf Center
From 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. Sat see Ziggy the tiny trick-performing horse at the Schoharie Free Library.
From 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. is the Second annual Halloween party at the Coventry Firehouse, North Road off state Highway 206.
Sunday Oct 19 from 1:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. the Oneonta Moose Lodge is holding a Harvest of Hope penny social, info: (518) 866-1208
The Edelweiss German-American Club presents Oktoberfest Sun at 2 p.m, with live music at the Schoharie Presbyterian Church education building, info: (518) 296-8491
Looking ahead:
Monday Oct 20 7 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. City of the Hills Women's Chorus performs at First United Presbyterian Church, 381 Main St., Roosevelt Avenue entrance. Info: 267-4718
And no performance would be complete without (on the same day but half an hour later) 7:30 p.m. the Midstatesmen Barbershop Harmony Chorus at the Salvation Army, River Street. Info: 278-6369.
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Those school lunches
National School Lunch week is here! Or perhaps your childhood memories don't set you cheering? I vividly remember the soft-shell burritos, which were actually rock hard. They became a favorite by high school, but in kindergarten, I wasn't able to bite through the shells, so burrito day always left me hungry. In first grade, I lost a tooth in one...
I suppose without school lunches, millions of kids would go hungry, perform poorly in school, and develop even more terrible eating habits than they already have. Maybe their parents would provide lunches for them or perhaps they would find their way to the convenience store and fill up on candy bars and soda. I think the school lunch program started out because kids were going hungry. It continues because kids are ... getting fat!
Rather than send you to the cafeteria to celebrate, here are some tasty ideas for brown bag snacks from Amazing Moms:
Cookie Dippers: Send vanilla wafer cookies along with a favorite yogurt. Kids love to dip and this way they are getting less sugar than most packaged treats.
Fun Chips: Use large cookie cutters to cut a flour tortilla or wrap. Arrange on cookie sheet and toast in a 400 degree oven for 6-8 mins. Send to school plain or with bean dip for dipping. Try brushing a very small amount of olive oil or cooking spray. Then sprinkle parmesan cheese or cinnamon sugar. If you try the cinnamon sugar, send the chips along with a container of applesauce for dipping.
I suppose without school lunches, millions of kids would go hungry, perform poorly in school, and develop even more terrible eating habits than they already have. Maybe their parents would provide lunches for them or perhaps they would find their way to the convenience store and fill up on candy bars and soda. I think the school lunch program started out because kids were going hungry. It continues because kids are ... getting fat!
Rather than send you to the cafeteria to celebrate, here are some tasty ideas for brown bag snacks from Amazing Moms:
Cookie Dippers: Send vanilla wafer cookies along with a favorite yogurt. Kids love to dip and this way they are getting less sugar than most packaged treats.
Fun Chips: Use large cookie cutters to cut a flour tortilla or wrap. Arrange on cookie sheet and toast in a 400 degree oven for 6-8 mins. Send to school plain or with bean dip for dipping. Try brushing a very small amount of olive oil or cooking spray. Then sprinkle parmesan cheese or cinnamon sugar. If you try the cinnamon sugar, send the chips along with a container of applesauce for dipping.
Saturday, October 11, 2008
Do something fun today!
Today is the last day to enjoy Native Balance, hosted by Hartwick college and the Pine Lake Institute. Activities include Abenaki storytelling and music, lacrosse, bowmaking and beadworking demos. Info: Native Balance
Thursday, October 9, 2008
The weekend is on its way:
The state Capitol in Albany is officially haunted: Free “Capitol Hauntings Tours” are being offered weekdays at 2 p.m. and 3:45 p.m. Before you drive out get a reservation (required), call 473-7582.
Friday 12pm-4 pm, Sat and Sun 8am-4pm, Oct 10-12: Fall foliage sheepdog trial at Clark Field, Beaver Meadow Road, Cooperstown, Info: 293-8385.
Sat Oct 11, 10 a.m. is the Morris Unicorns Ride-a-Thon at Jellystone Park in Garrattsville to benefit hospice! Horse lovers of all ages can participate in this 10 mile horse ride, or sit back in a horse drawn wagon. Riders are encouraged to collect pledges, ($10 minimum for wagon ride) and there are some 4-H requirements for horse-riders under age 19. Info: Catskill Hospice or 263-5124.
Wightman's is having an Open House Saturday from 8:30am - 1:00pm. There will be music by the Cherry Pickers, a wood-working contest, tours of the plant, seminars and a wind-catcher kid's craft courtesy of Amazable Science Adventures, more info: Wightmans.
Also Sat, from 1 p.m. - 6 p.m, The Adrenaline Zone hosts a Paintball fundraiser (134 Forest Way, Otego) to benefit Main Street Baptist Church's Nicaragua missions trip. Info: 432-7465 or adrenalinezonepaintball@hotmail.com.
Waffles and Puppets 2008, Saturday from 12 pm - 5 pm Brewery Ommegang celebrates their birthday with live puppet shows at 2 and 4 pm and live folk music at 1, 3, and 5pm. A variety of caterers will be present, admission is free. Info: Ommegang.
Saturday 1 p.m. will witness a train robbery rail ride (plus beautiful fall foliage) thanks to the Cooperstown & Charlotte Valley Railroad. Sunday at 1pm a fall foliage ride is offered. Info: 432-2429, Leatherstocking Historical Railway.
Sunday Oct 12 from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. is the Middlefield Fall Festival and Craft Show at the Middlefield Schoolhouse Museum. Info: 547-4008 or Middlefield History.
Looking ahead to next week:
Monday Oct 13 from 7 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. the City of the Hills Women's Chorus performs at the First United Presbyterian Church, 381 Main St. Oneonta, Roosevelt Avenue entrance. Info: 267-4718. The Midstatesmen Barbershop Harmony Chorus will also be performing at 7:30pm at the
Salvation Army on River Street. Again, is this a competition???
I hope you can make it to Oneonta World of Learning (OWL)'s first public meeting on Tuesday Oct 14th at 7pm. We will be meeting with interested community members and working on plans for Paintfest, our first real fund-raiser and community event. The meeting will be held in the Main View Gallery at 73-75 Main Street, Oneonta. The gallery is located on the corner next to the Oneonta Fire Station. Everyone is welcome and can call Andrea Thies with questions at 607-433-0160 or email WorldOfLearning@live.com.
Friday 12pm-4 pm, Sat and Sun 8am-4pm, Oct 10-12: Fall foliage sheepdog trial at Clark Field, Beaver Meadow Road, Cooperstown, Info: 293-8385.
Sat Oct 11, 10 a.m. is the Morris Unicorns Ride-a-Thon at Jellystone Park in Garrattsville to benefit hospice! Horse lovers of all ages can participate in this 10 mile horse ride, or sit back in a horse drawn wagon. Riders are encouraged to collect pledges, ($10 minimum for wagon ride) and there are some 4-H requirements for horse-riders under age 19. Info: Catskill Hospice or 263-5124.
Wightman's is having an Open House Saturday from 8:30am - 1:00pm. There will be music by the Cherry Pickers, a wood-working contest, tours of the plant, seminars and a wind-catcher kid's craft courtesy of Amazable Science Adventures, more info: Wightmans.
Also Sat, from 1 p.m. - 6 p.m, The Adrenaline Zone hosts a Paintball fundraiser (134 Forest Way, Otego) to benefit Main Street Baptist Church's Nicaragua missions trip. Info: 432-7465 or adrenalinezonepaintball@hotmail.com.
Waffles and Puppets 2008, Saturday from 12 pm - 5 pm Brewery Ommegang celebrates their birthday with live puppet shows at 2 and 4 pm and live folk music at 1, 3, and 5pm. A variety of caterers will be present, admission is free. Info: Ommegang.
Saturday 1 p.m. will witness a train robbery rail ride (plus beautiful fall foliage) thanks to the Cooperstown & Charlotte Valley Railroad. Sunday at 1pm a fall foliage ride is offered. Info: 432-2429, Leatherstocking Historical Railway.
Sunday Oct 12 from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. is the Middlefield Fall Festival and Craft Show at the Middlefield Schoolhouse Museum. Info: 547-4008 or Middlefield History.
Looking ahead to next week:
Monday Oct 13 from 7 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. the City of the Hills Women's Chorus performs at the First United Presbyterian Church, 381 Main St. Oneonta, Roosevelt Avenue entrance. Info: 267-4718. The Midstatesmen Barbershop Harmony Chorus will also be performing at 7:30pm at the
Salvation Army on River Street. Again, is this a competition???
I hope you can make it to Oneonta World of Learning (OWL)'s first public meeting on Tuesday Oct 14th at 7pm. We will be meeting with interested community members and working on plans for Paintfest, our first real fund-raiser and community event. The meeting will be held in the Main View Gallery at 73-75 Main Street, Oneonta. The gallery is located on the corner next to the Oneonta Fire Station. Everyone is welcome and can call Andrea Thies with questions at 607-433-0160 or email WorldOfLearning@live.com.
Paintfest Planning Meeting
I hope you can make it to our first public meeting. We will be meeting with interested community members and working on plans for Paintfest, our first real fund-raiser and community event. The meeting will be held on Tuesday, Oct 14 at 7pm in the Main View Gallery at 73-75 Main Street, Oneonta. The gallery is located on the corner next to the Oneonta Fire Station. Everyone is welcome and can call Andrea Thies with questions at 607-433-0160 or email WorldOfLearning@live.com.
Then mark your calendars for Saturday, November 15th from 10am-2pm. You will want to be a part of the First Annual Paintfest! We are currently searching for interested artists and fun-loving volunteers to do paint-themed activities with kids of all ages. Activities include painting a community canvas, paint and take-home ornaments, pottery painting, and silly games with paint (including paint-balloon darts--although it's not clear to me how to get the paint into the balloon while blowing it up).
This event is being planned by Oneonta World of Learning (OWL) in coordination with UCCCA, ARC Otsego and The Magic Paintbrush Project.
Then mark your calendars for Saturday, November 15th from 10am-2pm. You will want to be a part of the First Annual Paintfest! We are currently searching for interested artists and fun-loving volunteers to do paint-themed activities with kids of all ages. Activities include painting a community canvas, paint and take-home ornaments, pottery painting, and silly games with paint (including paint-balloon darts--although it's not clear to me how to get the paint into the balloon while blowing it up).
This event is being planned by Oneonta World of Learning (OWL) in coordination with UCCCA, ARC Otsego and The Magic Paintbrush Project.
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Endangered animals in your own backyard
The once common bog turtle is now endangered. So is the peregrin falcon, and both are residents of Otsego County, according to the handy new online nature guide brought to you by the New York Natural Heritage Program.
According to the guide, the fastest known flying bird is the Peregrine Falcon, with an air speed record of 60 mph and diving attack speeds up to 200 mph.
The not-so-famous (or daring) bog turtle is simply known for being tiny: generally less than 4 inches long in northern areas.
The guide is easy to search by plant or animal name, or even by county, which was nice! However, I got lost trying to search by community, with categories such as 'shale talus slope woodland' to choose from. I was really excited to identify a bird I encountered my first year in New York State. I was just entering my driveway on a clear fall day when a majestic, hawk-like bird flew over the road. Trouble is, the bird had an owl's fluffy face and wizened eyes. I know now that it must have been a Northern Harrier, one of many hawks in this area.
According to the guide, the fastest known flying bird is the Peregrine Falcon, with an air speed record of 60 mph and diving attack speeds up to 200 mph.
The not-so-famous (or daring) bog turtle is simply known for being tiny: generally less than 4 inches long in northern areas.
The guide is easy to search by plant or animal name, or even by county, which was nice! However, I got lost trying to search by community, with categories such as 'shale talus slope woodland' to choose from. I was really excited to identify a bird I encountered my first year in New York State. I was just entering my driveway on a clear fall day when a majestic, hawk-like bird flew over the road. Trouble is, the bird had an owl's fluffy face and wizened eyes. I know now that it must have been a Northern Harrier, one of many hawks in this area.
Monday, October 6, 2008
In favor of family time:
According to Zero to Three, " Half of all parents say they end most days feeling that they spent less time than they wanted to with their young child." In my case, I was probably doing dishes or checking email (which has become just another household chore). It's not time that I lack--it's quality time. I find myself yearning for a place away from the distractions of my to-do list, a place where my kids can make a mess without stressing me out, a safe place with age appropriate toys--where I can let down my guard for a while. In my fantasy place, there is room for creativity, but also plenty of ready-made activities, so don't have to think of everything. All I have to do is take joy in my children.
Children's museums are designed with all of these goals in mind. They help busy parents find a balance between their obligations and their need for family time. They provide safe places for play dates. I can't count the number of times when I didn't host a play date because I felt my house was just too messy, or that friends wouldn't want to drive over. They help moms connect with each other as well. You'd be surprised how much a little adult conversation can mean to a parent who's been in toddler land all day.
Oneonta World of Learning (OWL) will be just such a place. We're not building a tourist attraction, although tourists will undoubtedly come. And we're not creating an indoor circus, although it will be fun! We're creating a children's museum. The best way to find out what that means is to go to one. The nearest children's museums are in Binghamton (the Discovery Center), Albany (CMOST), and Utica (Utica CM).
Children's museums are designed with all of these goals in mind. They help busy parents find a balance between their obligations and their need for family time. They provide safe places for play dates. I can't count the number of times when I didn't host a play date because I felt my house was just too messy, or that friends wouldn't want to drive over. They help moms connect with each other as well. You'd be surprised how much a little adult conversation can mean to a parent who's been in toddler land all day.
Oneonta World of Learning (OWL) will be just such a place. We're not building a tourist attraction, although tourists will undoubtedly come. And we're not creating an indoor circus, although it will be fun! We're creating a children's museum. The best way to find out what that means is to go to one. The nearest children's museums are in Binghamton (the Discovery Center), Albany (CMOST), and Utica (Utica CM).
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