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- August 7, 2025
August 7, 2025
This week's newsletter features updates from local businesses and numerous local events for art, music, food, and wine. There are also life and wellness articles: Dog Days of Summer, Kids at a New School, Best Zucchini Recipes.
Don Stevens
August 07, 2025
Community News
🎉 Auburn Launches New "Summer Homecoming" Weekend
Auburn has rebranded its longtime Founder’s Day as Summer Homecoming — a three-day festival featuring live music, local vendors, food trucks, and family-friendly fun. The celebration wraps with the 47th annual Great Race at Emerson Park.
🔗 Read the full article
🏗️ New Community Center Breaks Ground in Penn Yan
After years of planning and local fundraising, the Yates Community Center has officially broken ground in Penn Yan. The 35,000-square-foot facility will support youth sports, wellness programs, and community events.
🔗 Read the full article
🏥 Thompson Hospital Begins Major Expansion in Canandaigua
F.F. Thompson Hospital has kicked off a large renovation to modernize its services. Highlights include a new MRI unit, a redesigned birthing center, and better accessibility for patients and families.
🔗 Read the full article
🥤 Mac’s Drive-In Keeps Retro Dining Alive in Waterloo
Mac’s Drive-In has been serving up classic summer vibes and homemade root beer in Waterloo for over 50 years. With nostalgic curbside service and a loyal following, it's a cherished local gem for generations.
🔗 Read the full article
🔬 Cornell Receives $20M Grant to Lead New AI Institute
Cornell University is launching a new $20M AI-powered institute to accelerate discoveries in materials science, energy, and quantum tech. The program will also provide cutting-edge training for the next generation of scientists.
🔗 Read the full article
‘ F.F. Thompson Hospital Announces Major Renovation Project
Beginning this month, F.F. Thompson Hospital is launching a major renovation project involving several key upgrades and expansions designed to improve both patient care and hospital services.
“This significant investment in our facilities is part of our commitment to delivering high-quality care in a welcoming and modern environment for all of our patients and visitors,” said Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Kurt Koczent.
New MRI room
Highlights of the project include:
Upgrade of the MRI Unit: The Diagnostic Imaging Department will install a state-of-the-art MRI unit to enhance diagnostic capabilities and patient comfort, as well as reduce wait and exam times.
Expansion of the Birthing Center: The Birthing Center will be expanded with the addition of two new licensed labor and delivery rooms to accommodate growing demand and ensure the best possible care for moms, babies, and families.
Gift shop and chapel relocation: Both the Guild Gallery Gift Shop and the hospital chapel will be moved to easily accessible locations.
Updated main entrance: The hospital’s main entrance will be renovated to improve accessibility and streamline patient and visitor flow.
“We are thrilled to begin this transformative project, which will ensure our hospital remains at the forefront of patient care while enhancing the overall experience for our community,” Koczent said. “Although there may be some temporary inconveniences during construction, these improvements will bring long-term benefits to everyone who trusts Thompson Health for their health and well-being.”
The renovation is expected to involve temporary changes, such as alternate entrances, relocation of certain services, and periods of construction activity. Patient care and safety remain the system’s top priorities; there will be no interruptions to essential services.
The project will unfold in phases, with regular updates on the progress and milestones. Patients, families, and visitors can stay informed by visiting the hospital’s website, www.thompsonhealth.com, and by following updates on the system’s social media channels.
Lymphedema Support Group Meets Aug. 19
UR Medicine Thompson Health is hosting its Lymphedema Support Group on Tuesday, Aug. 19, from 5 to 6 p.m. at its Canandaigua Rehabilitation Center, 699 S. Main St.
The group is facilitated by Occupational Therapist and Licensed Massage Therapist Angela Kiklowicz, whose certifications include Complete Decongestive Therapy for the treatment of lymphedema and other chronic swelling disorders.
RSVPs are required. Call 585-396-6050 to RSVP.
Wood Library
Where Tradition, Technology and Community Meet
ADULT PROGRAMS:
Friday, August 1 | 11:00 AM-1:00 PM
Anyone who has an interest in writing is welcome. Share original stories, poems, memoirs, and more in a supportive, learning community of fellow writers. Registration required.
Saturday, August 2 | 12:00-1:00 PM
For caregivers of neurodiverse and/or medically complex children.
Monday, August 4 | 2:00-4:00 PM
Search and post items for local sale just like putting a classified ad in the newspaper but with a broad and faster reach, and at no cost! Must be an Ontario County resident and 60+ years of age. Registration required.
Tuesday, August 5 | 7:00-8:00 PM
Join Preston Pierce, Ontario County Historian, to learn about the life of Austin Steward.
Wednesday, August 6 | 5:30-6:30 PM
Learn to line dance and make new friends! The cost is $10 per person. Payment due at class. Registration required.
Thursday, August 7 | 10:00 AM-12:00 PM
Learn how to use your Chromebook efficiently and effectively with keyboard shortcuts, touchpad tips, and general navigation help. Must be an Ontario County resident and 60+ years of age. Registration required.
ADULT & TEEN PROGRAMS:
Monday, August 4 | 5:30-7:00 PM
A social gathering of fiber crafters. All skill levels welcome!
Wednesday, August 6 | 6:00-7:00 PM
Community lessons and matchplay. Free chips & guacamole! Limited seats. Reserve a seat at 585-394-9380.
Thursday, August 7 | 5:00-8:00 PM
Join us for Modern Western Square Dance, a fun social activity. Registration required.
TEEN PROGRAMS:
Tuesday, August 5 | 2:00-4:00 PM
Grades 7-12. Robot Coders is the ultimate combination of hands-on building, creativity, and programming. Work in a small group to build a Smart TRex, learn how to integrate programming components like sensors and servos, and how to control robots using block coding. No previous building or coding experience is necessary. Registration required.
Tuesday, August 5 | 5:30-6:30 PM
Join Karen Hoad from Reliant Credit Union to learn about needs, wants, and saving your money while snacking on pizza! Registration required.
Thursday, August 7 | 11:00 AM-12:30 PM
Learn how to build your own mini flashlight with Bill Pealr from FLX3D. Registration required.
Thursday, August 7 | 6:30-7:30 PM
Meet local author MacKenzie Reed and dive into her path to publishing YA thrillers The Rosewood Hunt and The Wilde Trials with HarperCollins. Learn about her writing process, and the behind-the-scenes lead up that happens before a book finds its way onto a shelf. Copies of both books will be available for purchase and autographs. Registration required.
CHILDREN PROGRAMS:
Saturday, August 2 | 10:30-11:15 AM
Let's dance! We'll start with a fun story and then dance and move to our favorite songs.
Tuesday, August 5 | 6:00-6:30 PM
Bring your friend to the library for a stuffed animal sleepover! Drop-off begins with a PJ storytime. Pick up your friend the next day and get a photo album of their library adventures. Registration required.
Wednesday, August 6 | 10:00-10:30 AM
Ages 1-6. Join Mr. Ray from The Local Sound Collaborative for a fun and festive music session! Bring your dancing feet and get ready to sing along.
Wednesday, August 6 | 2:00-4:00 PM
Grades 1-5. Explore the life of cavemen and the unusual animals that inhabited the planet. View a SABRE-TOOTH TIGER and a CAVE BEAR skull, fossils, and early tools of humans. Play the “Are You Smarter Than a Caveman” game show. Dig up a real Mastodon bone and help us build a Mastodon! Registration required.
Summer Storytimes
Baby Storytime 9:30-10:00 AM
Mondays: August 4, 11, 18 & 25
Fridays: August 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29
All-Ages Storytime 10:15-10:45 AM
Mondays: August 4, 11, 18 & 25
Thursdays: August 7, 14, 21 & 28
RECURRING PROGRAMS:
Wood Walkers- Mondays | 9:00-10:00AM
Tai Chi- Mondays | 10:00-10:45AM
Chair Yoga- Wednesdays | 10:00-11:00AM
Open Tech Hours- Wednesdays | 3:00-5:00PM
New Yorker Discussion Group- Thursdays | 3:30-4:30PM
See the full list of library programs on our calendar.
Find Wood Library at 134 N Main St, Canandaigua. Visit woodlibrary.org and look for us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.
Roots Café in Naples, NY is being featured on America’s Best Restaurants
Summer hours
Hours: Mon and Tue Closed
Wed-Sun: 11am-3pm Lunch, 5pm-8pm Dinner
Roots Cafe - 585-374-9800 - http://rootscafenaplesny.com
Moonlight Strolls at Sonnenberg
Thursdays, July 31st through September 4th, 2025
New in 2025 – THURSDAY NIGHTS, 7pm to 9pm
Music in the moonlit gardens of Sonnenberg. Great for the whole family!
Admission $10/Members | $12/Non-members | $5.00 (3-15 years old) | Free (under 3 years old) | Pre-sale Online (online sales through the Tuesday before the stroll)
Local beers, Ciders, and Finger Lakes Wines are available. Click for more info
Stonecuttter's Tavern at Belhurst Castle and Winery
Join us for the best Happy Hour around.
Wine and Beverage News
🍇 New Riesling Series Celebrates the Harvest at Finger Lakes Winery
A Finger Lakes winery has launched a special limited-edition Riesling series to honor the upcoming harvest season. The lineup features three expressions—dry, semi-dry, and late harvest—crafted from estate-grown grapes and available in tasting rooms starting this week.
🔗 Read the full article
🍻 Craft Brewery in Geneva Debuts Summer Wheat Ale with Local Blueberries
Geneva's popular craft brewery has released a new Summer Wheat Ale infused with locally sourced blueberries. The limited seasonal brew highlights Finger Lakes farm partnerships and is already a hit in the taproom.
🔗 Read the full article
🥃 Seneca Lake Distillery Expands Spirits Line with New Barrel-Aged Gin
A craft distillery near Seneca Lake just unveiled a new small-batch barrel-aged gin, aged for six months in American oak. The new release brings depth and smoothness to the spirit, with notes of vanilla, spice, and citrus.
🔗 Read the full article
🍷 Keuka Lake Winery Honored with Gold at NY Wine Classic
A Keuka Lake winery took home gold at this year’s NY Wine Classic for its estate-grown Cabernet Franc. Judges praised its balance, aroma, and bold Finger Lakes character.
🔗 Read the full article
Beer and Bourbon Brunch at Miles Wine Cellars
24 August 2025 at 10am & 11:30am
Get ready for a bold, beer-inspired brunch. First beer or Bloody Mary included for those above 21. First beer or Bloody Mary included, additional wine, beer, cider and cocktails available for purchase.
*All prices are tax included, only in tasting room* More info.
Miles Wine Cellars
Open Daily, 10am-5pm.
68 Randall Crossing Rd, Himrod, NY 14842
(607) 243-7742 - http://MilesWineCellars.com
From Our Blog:
Dog Days of Summer
No matter how you feel about the time basically from Memorial Day to Labor Day, there are some ideas associated with the time period. Read more.
Kids at a New School
Relocation seems a fact of life. Whether it is from one city to another or just from one home to another, often kids will need to attend a different school from their previous one. Even if you are still living in the same place, a change from elementary to middle school to high school can be daunting. Read More
Best Zucchini Recipes
Zucchini is a summer squash that is generally a light flesh with a green skin. It is delicate in flavor and can be prepared in a number of ways. Cut it into spears and eat it raw with or without a dip. Of course, you can always make zucchini bread. Read more
Live and Local Events curated and submitted by Venues
Note: Please contact venue to verify events as events are subject to change. For a complete view of events, visit our calendar of events.
$20; 18 and under are free
08/07/2025 6:00 PM
Chose either a 3 or 8 mile loop through scenic Fillmore Glen State Park. Online registration is required and is open...
Fillmore Glen State Park 1686 NY-38, Moravia, NY 13118
08/07/2025 7:00 PM
We're thrilled to be a part of another amazing NASCAR weekend! If you are camping for this year's Watkins...
2790 County Route 16, Watkins Glen, NY 14891
08/07/2025 7:30 PM recurs every day
We're gearing up to open the third show of our 2025 production season, The Cayuga Canal Girls! You can purchase...
151 S Main St, Naples, NY 14512
08/07/2025 7:30 PM
The charismatic Calidore String Quartet thrills audiences on the world’s major stages, including frequently...
First Presbyterian Church of Skaneateles 97 E Genesee St, Skaneateles, NY 13152
08/07/2025 8:00 PM recurs every week
Delaques lays down the sweet grooves and melodies with a weekly improv session at The Nocturnal Cafe! ...
103 S Geneva St, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA
$10.00
08/07/2025 8:00 PM
Strong Maybe Demi-Residency: Thursday, July 24 & Thursday, August 7 8pm $10/pwyc Support the downstairs! Become...
The Downstairs 121 W State St, Ithaca, NY 14850
Free; freewill donations accepted. State Park vehicle fee.
08/08/2025 5:30 AM
This hatha class will emphasize breath and body awareness with modifications and variations to make the experience...
Fillmore Glen State Park 1686 NY-38, Moravia, NY 13118
08/08/2025 6:00 AM
Women Swimmin’ for Hospicare Saturday, August 9, 2025 at the Ithaca Yacht Club We are so excited to be back...
Ithaca Yacht Club 1090 Glenwood Rd, Ithaca, NY 14850
08/08/2025 12:00 PM
Don't miss this awesome once-a-year event! A program of the Community Arts Partnership of Tompkins County, the...
Ithaca Farmers Market 545 3rd St, Ithaca, NY 14850
08/08/2025 5:00 PM
2025 WGI Boy Scout of America Offer Watkins Glen International is excited to announce the return of our annual Scout...
Watkins Glen International 2790 Co Rte 16, Watkins Glen, NY 14891
08/08/2025 7:00 PM
IHMC Open House. ...
314 Fall St, Seneca Falls, NY 13148
08/08/2025 8:00 PM
Material Objects Friday, August 8th 8pm Support the downstairs! Become a member or donate to the Programming Fund!...
The Downstairs 121 W State St, Ithaca, NY 14850
08/09/2025 9:00 AM recurs every week
Ithaca Farmers Market is thrilled to welcome back our loyal customers and new visitors with a wide variety of products...
545 3rd St, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA
$1 admission to event, $5 NYS Vehicle fee.
08/09/2025 10:00 AM
Gates open at 10 am with a rubber ducky scavenger hunt for kids starting at 10:30. Pedal car derby for ages 4 to 8...
Fillmore Glen State Park 1686 NY-38, Moravia, NY 13118
08/09/2025 11:00 AM
Come visit me at Bully Hill Vineyards on August 9th from 11 AM to 3 PM for a Permanent Jewelry Pop-Up! Enjoy the...
8843 Greyton H Taylor Memorial Dr, Hammondsport, NY 14840
08/09/2025 11:00 AM
Join us Saturday August 9th as we resurrect the annual Mynderse Academy Football Golf Tournament. Cost: $400/Team...
Seneca Falls Country Club 2790 NY-89, Seneca Falls, NY 13148
08/09/2025 11:00 AM
Sound Healing with Jot Gopal. Saturday, August 9th | 11 AM – 12 PM On the waterfront patio at Rhizo Remedy ...
6 Ovid St, Seneca Falls, NY 13148
08/09/2025 11:00 AM recurs every 2 weeks
Join us for a special behind-the-scenes tour of Rose Hill Mansion. These tours are not the same as our regular tour....
543 S Main St, Geneva, NY 14456, USA
08/09/2025 1:00 PM
We welcome all peacemakers runners and walkers to the 2nd annual Beer Mile. More details in comments coming soon....
106 Bemis St, Canandaigua, NY 14424
08/09/2025 1:00 PM
We are so excited to get the duo out to Point on the Bluff! Come on out for a stinking good time. ...
Point of the Bluff Vineyards 10489 Co Rd 76, Hammondsport, NY 14840
08/09/2025 2:30 PM
Follow us out to Auburn, New York for their annual founders Day event. This is a multiple band concert! ...
Genesee St, Auburn, NY 13021, USA
08/09/2025 5:00 PM
Singer, songwriter Payton Clark returns LIVE at the LBC, performing on Saturday August 9th from 5-8pm! As always...
12 Maiden Ln, Penn Yan, NY 14527
08/09/2025 5:00 PM
Singer, songwriter Payton Clark returns LIVE at the LBC, performing on Saturday August 9th from 5-8pm! As always...
12 Maiden Ln, Penn Yan, NY 14527
08/09/2025 7:30 PM
Bailey Zimmerman is coming to Canandaigua! Bailey Zimmerman is back for the New to Country Tour in 2025. Find tickets...
4355 Lakeshore Dr, Canandaigua, NY 14424
$16.88
08/09/2025 8:00 PM
Comedy Night at the Brewery! Join us for an unforgettable night of laughs as we welcome Paul Kozlowski followed by...
4022 Mill Rd, Skaneateles, NY 13152
08/09/2025 8:00 PM
Five-time GRAMMY winner esperanza spalding is a defining musician of our time. This singer, songwriter, bassist, and...
Anyela's Vineyards 2433 W Lake Rd, Skaneateles, NY 13152
08/10/2025 7:30 AM
JOIN US Sunday, August 10th at Geneva Half Marathon & Relay. Starts and Finishes at the North End of Seneca Lake...
Finger Lakes Welcome Center 35 Lake Front Dr, Geneva, NY 14456
$45.00
08/10/2025 9:00 AM recurs every week
Sundays are meant for savoring—join us for a delightful Sunday Jazz Brunch overlooking the beauty of Geneva...
1001 Lochland Rd, Geneva, NY 14456, USA
08/10/2025 10:00 AM recurs every week
Just like our popular Saturday Market, Sundays at the Pavilion offer new customers and returning vistors a wide variety...
545 3rd St, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA
$28.52
08/10/2025 11:00 AM
Tickets and event info here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1487213819569?aff=oddtdtcreator ...
Hidden Horseshoe Farm & Sanctuary 5661 S Street Rd, Auburn, NY 13021
08/10/2025 1:30 PM recurs every week
May 25 – September 7 | 1:30–3:30 PM Join us for Sunday Funday all summer long with Tunes on the Terrace...
111 Liberty St, Penn Yan, NY 14527, USA
08/10/2025 2:00 PM
Don't miss the NASCAR Cup Series: Go Bowling at The Glen at the Watkins Glen International Speedway in Watkins...
Watkins Glen International Speedway 2790 County Route 16, Watkins Glen, NY 14891
08/11/2025 9:00 AM
Our 25th year of Summer Camp! Staff training on Saturday Aug. 9 & Sunday Aug. 10 Campers arrive on Monday Aug....
7131 Gulick Rd, Naples, NY 14512
Free
08/12/2025 3:00 PM
On Tuesday, August 12th from 3:00pm-7:00pm, SouthWorks will be hosting our second annual open house, with opportunities...
SouthWorks 620 S Aurora St, Ithaca, NY 14850
08/12/2025 5:30 PM
Stand up paddle board yoga. This all levels yoga class pairs safely aligned movement with breath work so you feel...
811 S Main St, Canandaigua, NY 14424
08/12/2025 6:00 PM
Join us Tuesday, August 12th, for an evening of community and camaraderie as we celebrate the friends and partners...
New York Kitchen 800 S Main St, Canandaigua, NY 14424
08/12/2025 6:00 PM recurs every week
Join Brenda every Tuesday evening from 6pm-7pm for a Beginner Friendly Kundalini Yoga Practice Kundalini Yoga is...
142 Mill St, Canandaigua, NY 14424, USA
08/12/2025 6:30 PM
TOAST - The No. 1 Tribute to BREAD is coming to the Concerts at Point of the Bluff in Hammondsport, NY! Experience...
Concerts at Point of the Bluff 10489 Co Rd 76, Hammondsport, NY 14840
08/13/2025 7:00 AM recurs every day
Walk in the footsteps of racing legends. You can really see what your car can do in Watkins Glen, NY. This event often...
08/13/2025 10:00 AM recurs every week
Join us on Wednesdays at 10:00AM for a FREE history tour, lead by our historian Dr. Chris Woodworth. These tours continue...
82 Seneca St, Geneva, NY 14456, USA
08/13/2025 5:00 PM recurs every week
At the Backyard Flea, we’ve created an unforgettable experience for shoppers and vendors alike. Discover an...
202 E Falls St, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA
08/14/2025 5:00 PM
Jess Novak is a triple threat singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist. With a shredding electric fiddle, powerful...
Lakefront Park, 35 Lake Front Dr, Geneva, NY 14456
08/13/2025 6:00 PM
We're making our debut at Fox Run Vineyards in Penn Yan! ...
Fox Run Vineyards 670 NY-14, Penn Yan, NY 14527
08/13/2025 7:00 PM
Join Mary Jumbelic, M.D., former Chief Medical Examiner of Onondaga County, NY and author of the books "Here,...
49 E Genesee St, Skaneateles, NY 13152, USA
08/14/2025 4:30 PM
4:30-7:30PM Acoustic Duo Country/Oldies/Rock/Originals ...
Castel Grisch Winery 3380 County Rd 28, Watkins Glen, NY 14891
08/14/2025 6:00 PM
The Rockers will be entertaining for the Seneca Falls weekly Thursday night summer series on Thursday, Aug. 14 from...
Seneca Falls Community Center 35 Water St, Seneca Falls, NY 13148
08/14/2025 7:00 PM
Trampoline is presented by WSKG and hosted by the Mighty Mickie Quinn! Show up. Sign up. Tell a 5-minute personal...
The Downstairs 121 W State St, Ithaca, NY 14850
08/15/2025 6:00 PM
The Shylocks will be playing their acoustic blues at the Weedsport tap room! ...
8931 N Seneca St, Weedsport, NY 13166
08/15/2025 7:00 PM
Bad JuJu returns to Lake Street for a great night of live classic rock. Come sing and dance the night away to some...
Lake Street Station Winery 41 Lake St, Geneva, NY 14456
That’s it for this week.
As summer hits its stride, there’s no better time to soak up everything the Finger Lakes has to offer—whether you're catching a ballgame, strolling through a local festival, or simply enjoying the sunshine by the water. Get outside, explore, and make the most of this beautiful season in our incredible region. See you out there!🏃♂️💛
As a reminder, contact us if you'd like to advertise your business or event.
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Finger Lakes Connected