I grew up in Syracuse, New York which is right in the heart of Central New York. It was a rather interesting upbringing, living in a city that wasn't that huge of a city, but big enough to qualify as one. Telling everyone I've ever met that I'm "from New York" and with them automatically thinking I'm straight out of the Bronx, it's been a tad difficult. That's not so much the case. But growing up in the 'Cuse here's a few things I've learned that only true Central New Yorkers can relate to.

1. You Live and Breathe Syracuse University Sports (Especially Basketball)

For most Central New Yorkers, the Carrier Dome becomes your second home. Jim Boeheim's basketball teams are always properly built for successful seasons and they always perform well. 'Cuse has some of the best fans, and the atmosphere at the games are always electric. As for football...we won't talk about it.

2. Destiny USA is Basically Heaven

If you're truly from CNY, you can't deny how much you love going to the mall. It has every store you could possibly think of, and you're blessed you have one of the biggest malls in the country in your area. You've probably spent many a weekends at this fine place, and it probably has a significant impact on your life. Oh, and we're still trying to figure out why they changed the name from Carousel...

3. You Eat Tully's at Least 3 Times a Week

You can't deny how unbelievably yummy the Tully's chicken tenders are. They're called "the greatest tenders on Earth" for a reason and even I am guilty of having a meal from the restaurant more than I should. I probably have put enough money into this restaurant to support its own wing of the building, but hey it's worth it.

4. Or Heid's...

If you've ever had a famous hotdog from Heid's, you know what I'm talking about. The restaurant is a staple for Central New Yorkers and is probably one of your go-to restaurants.

5. Your Favorite Hobby Becomes Shoveling Snow

When you're from CNY, you know how brutal the snow can be. To be frank, the three months of winter are probably the worst months all year. Driving becomes difficult, shoveling becomes your favorite pastime, and you sit next to your calendar crossing off the days until spring comes. Don't worry, no one likes the snow.

6. You Attend the State Fair at Least Eight Times

If you're a true Central New Yorker, you know how fun the fair is. Between the rides, food, and entertainment, the Great New York State Fair is one of the biggest attractions all year. So when it comes in town in late August, you'll be there a few times with friends and family.

7. You're Still Waiting for Onondaga Lake to be Clean

Why, yes the park is beautiful and you love to rollerblade along the side of the lake, but what if it were clean?! There was supposed to be a reform plan put into effect last year to help clean the lake, but it seems no progress has been made. Imagine how the atmosphere of the lake if it were swimmable! Just a thought.

8. You're Curious about the Lakeview Amphitheater

The new concert venue opened this past August and has all Central New Yorkers wondering who will come perform next year. The inaugural show was Miranda Lambert, but who knows may be coming to CNY. If the venue can pull in performers like nearby Darien Lake and SPAC can, CNY has found a new gem.

9. You're Still Waiting for the Chiefs to Be Good

If you're anything like me you're still waiting on the Syracuse Chiefs to be relevant. They made it into the playoffs a couple years ago, but they couldn't bring home the title. Well, all we can do is sit around and hope the Washington Nationals affiliate can bring a minor league championship back to the 'Cuse.

10. You Know About Salt Potatoes

True Central New Yorkers know how prime the salt potatoes are from around the area. With Syracuse being the "Salt City," the potatoes follow suit making for one of the most delicious foods the area has to offer. CNY is known specifically for its salt potatoes, and locals know how good these are.

11. You've Been on a Nearby Wine Tour

CNY is known for it's wine tours. Especially around the Finger Lake region, wine tours are a favorite attraction amongst young adults. Although I am a little young for wine, if you've ever been on a tour, you know you're a truly from CNY.

Central New York is a great place to live. Although it's covered in snow for what seems like three quarters of the year, it's truly a great place to be.