July 10, 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: "Troubleshooting Your AC," "Bored Kids During Summer" and "5 Cold Soup Recipes for Hot Summer Days."

Community News

šŸ† Watkins Glen Chamber Earns National Recognition

Summary: Watkins Glen Chamber joins the top 3% of U.S. Chambers for excellence in service and leadership.
The Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce has officially been accredited by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. This national honor recognizes their dedication to local business support, community engagement, and strong governance. It's a major win for Watkins Glen and all the businesses they serve.
šŸ”— Read the article

🚧 $4.75M for Infrastructure to Boost Local Business

Summary: Finger Lakes towns get nearly $5M in state funds to support walkability, utilities, and growth.
Eight Finger Lakes counties—including Geneva, Yates, and Wayne—are receiving a total of $4.75 million to improve streets, sidewalks, and water systems. These upgrades will help attract more businesses, increase foot traffic, and support community revitalization across the region.
šŸ”— Read the article

šŸ‘ Auburn BID Names New Executive Director

Summary: Jesse Kline will lead downtown Auburn’s business and beautification efforts.
Jesse Kline has been appointed the new Executive Director of the Auburn Downtown Business Improvement District. With 15 years of experience and strong community ties, she plans to continue downtown revitalization, events, and local business support.
šŸ”— Read the article

Construction This Month at Thompson Hospital

The summer construction season has begun at F.F. Thompson Hospital!

While a much larger project will be announced shortly, there are some minor projects happening soon that will impact patients and visitors.

From July 14 to July 28, the short retaining wall at the hospital’s main entrance will be rebuilt. During this time, the road in front of the retaining wall will be closed to all vehicles and pedestrians, and everyone will be directed under the main entrance overhang, which is usually reserved for drop-off and pickup. In addition, from July 14 to July 21, a large parking lot behind the Constellation Center for Health and Healing and the entrance road off West Street will be repaved. Because of this, the lot and entrance road will be closed until July 22.

Please allow a little extra time for your visit and follow all posted signs and directions. Thank you for your understanding as Thompson makes these important upgrades.

 

Fashion Show Raises $20K for Guild Scholarships

The Thompson Health Guild netted approximately $20,000 in proceeds at its annual Fashion Show, held June 8 at Finger Lakes Community College.

Eastview Mall was the presenting sponsor for the event, which included fashions from several area businesses. Proceeds will benefit the Guild’s annual scholarships for area high school seniors who are entering healthcare-related fields of study. Proceeds will also benefit the Guild Education Fund, for Thompson Health associates who want to continue their education with classes, seminars, and certifications.

ā€œThe Thompson Health Guild thanks our generous community for their continued support. We are thrilled to have the opportunity to be able to offer these educational opportunities to so many brilliant and promising young people, as well as support our hospital associates,ā€ said Guild President Katie Outhouse.

The Fashion Show is one of the signature events for the Guild. The auxiliary organization was founded in 1905 to support F.F. Thompson Hospital, which has since grown into a health system with not only a hospital but a nursing home, primary care offices, urgent care centers, outpatient rehabilitation locations, a breast imaging center, and more.

Those interested in becoming members of the Guild are invited to apply online via www.ThompsonHealth.com/Guild, call Membership Committee Chair Kim Arnold at 585-733-7390, or email [email protected].

Wood Library

Where Tradition, Technology and Community Meet

OUTDOOR MOVIE NIGHTS

Watch movies the old-fashioned way, from a car!

Thursday, July 10 | 9:00-11:00 PM

Musical: The Last Five Years (PG-13, CC, runtime 1 hr 34min)

Thursday, July 17 | 9:00-11:00 PM

Musical: Hairspray (PG, CC, 1hr 56 min)

Thursday, July 24 | 9:00-11:00 PM

Canandaigua Horror Collective: Woman in the Yard (PG-13, CC, 1hr 28 min)

Arrive early to park and get settled in. Bring lawn chairs if you want to sit outside and don't forget your snacks!

 

ADULT PROGRAMS: 

Saturday, July 12 | 10:30 AM-12:30 PM

Craft your own greeting cards with instructor Sally. The cost is $20 per person and includes everything you need to make four cards with envelopes. Payment due at time of class. Registration required.

 

Saturday, July 12 | 11:00 AM-1:00 PM

Make waffles and watch Conclave (PG, CC, runtime 2 hr). Registration required.

 

Monday, July 14 | 2:00-4:00 PM

Find out what streaming is, how it works, and what technology you need to ā€œcut the cable cord.ā€ Review the most popular streaming services on the market right now (Roku, Netflix, Hulu, Spotify, etc.) and their costs. Must be an Ontario County resident and 60+ years of age. Registration required.

 

Wednesday, July 16 | 6:00-7:30 PM 

Try to be the first team of 4 to have the highest score and win bragging rights for the best trivia team at Wood Library! Registration required.

 

Thursday, July 17 | 5:30-7:00 PM

Cornell Cooperative Extension will teach the art of pickling. Registration required.

 

Friday, July 18 | 3:30-4:30 PM

Ontario County Workforce Development will discuss ways that technology can help and harm your job search. Can’t make it to the workshop? Call 585-396-4020 for assistance. Registration required.

 

TEEN PROGRAMS: 

Monday, July 14 | 5:30-6:30 PM

Read and discuss The Wilde Trials by Mackenzie Reed. Registration required.

 

Tuesday, July 15 | 6:00-8:00 PM

Visit with New York Times Best-selling authors Becky Albertalli and Jennifer Dugan to learn about writing, publishing, and more! There will be raffles and time for autographs. Registration required.

 

Wednesday, July 16 | 2:00-3:30 PM

Do you crochet? Knit? Diamond art? Bring your craft projects and work on them in the Teen Scene or, on nice days, in our Reading Garden with fellow crafters! Registration required.

 

Thursday, July 17 | 1:00-3:00 PM

Grades 7-12. Learn to play new games with John Michalko! Registration required.

 

Thursday, July 17 | 2:00-3:30 PM

Join the Storybook Cook and learn to prepare an anime style dish! Registration required.

 

CHILDREN PROGRAMS: 

Thursdays, July 10-August 28 | 6:00-7:00 PM

Grades 1-5. Practice your reading with Ivy, our tail wagging tutor! Call or stop in the library to sign up for a special 10-minute reading session.

 

Monday, July 14 | 4:30-6:30 PM

Grades 4-7. Make stamps out of rubber and/or potatoes. This craft uses a carving knife, please assess your child's ability. Registration required.

 

Tuesday, July 15 | 5:00-6:00 PM

What story do YOU want to tell? Create with other kids - write that story, draw that picture, create that graphic novel. Some supplies provided, bring your own ideas!

 

Summer Storytimes

Baby Storytime 9:30-10:00 AM

Mondays: July 14, 21 & 28, August 4, 11, 18 & 25

Fridays: July 11, 18 & 25, August 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29

All-Ages Storytime 10:15-10:45 AM

Mondays: July 14, 21 & 28, August 4, 11, 18 & 25

Thursdays: July 17, 24 & 31, 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 CafĆ© in Naples, NY is being featured on America’s Best Restaurants

Summer hours are finally here and we are just excited to see you more!! Join us Sunday for dinner, or stop in Wednesdays for a midweek pick-me up! We can’t wait to see you!

Hours: Mon and Tue Closed
Wed-Sun: 11am-3pm Lunch, 5pm-8pm Dinner

Roots Cafe - 585-374-9800 - http://rootscafenaplesny.com

Stonecuttter's Tavern at Belhurst Castle and Winery

Join us for the best Happy Hour around.

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

Wine and Beverage News

šŸ» FLX Beverage Co. Opens in Ithaca

Summary: Chris Hass has relaunched FLX Beverage Co. on W. State Street with a fresh layout, local brews, and community-focused events.
After decades in medical sales, Chris Hass purchased and revamped the former Finger Lakes Beverage Center, reopening it as FLX Beverage Co. in late May. The store features hundreds of local beers, ciders, hard seltzers, and even non-alcoholic options, all organized by style. Hass is planning tastings, raffles, and events to foster a welcoming community vibe—and is actively hiring for the summer season. Excitingly, he’s working with small brewers to spotlight regional talent.
šŸ”— Read more

šŸ‡ Student Winemakers Introduce 2024 Astrae Via Wines at FLCC

Summary: FLCC students launched a new line of wines, including a sparkling pƩt-nat, now available in Geneva.
Second-year students in FLCC’s Viticulture & Wine Technology program unveiled their 2024 Astrae Via wines—featuring Polaris red, white, Riesling, and a naturally sparkling pĆ©t-nat. They crafted the wines from harvest through bottling and even designed labels via a student competition. These wines are now available at the Viticulture Center and select Geneva shops, offering a fresh glimpse into the future of Finger Lakes winemaking.
šŸ”— Read more

Mimosa Brunch at Miles Wine Cellars
Sunday, July 20th, 10:am and 11:30 am

Join us for delicious food, fun and sophistication at our Mimosa Brunch! First mimosa included for those 21 and over.

Get Tickets

Miles Wine Cellars
Open Daily, 10am-5pm.
68 Randall Crossing Rd, Himrod, NY 14842
(607) 243-7742 - http://MilesWineCellars.com

From Our Blog:

Speech Therapy for Kids

No one wants their air conditioner to fail in the summer. However, it does happen. Even if you have the equipment checked at the beginning of the season, things go wrong. Read More.

Kids Bored During Summer

No matter how many activities you have planned for your kids during the summer break, it is inevitable that at some point you will hear:  ā€œI’m boredā€. Read More

5 Cold Soup Recipes for Summer

Cool down with these light, refreshing soups that celebrate the best of summer produce. From creamy classics to zesty blends, each recipe is easy to make and perfect for warm-weather lunches, dinners, or appetizers. Serve chilled and enjoy the seasonal flavors! 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.

07/11/2025 N/A recurs every day

Waitress Book by Jessie Nelson. Music and Lyrics by Sara Bareilles. Based upon the motion picture written by Adrienne...

Hangar Theatre 801 Taughannock Blvd, Ithaca, NY 14850

$15.00

07/11/2025 N/A recurs every day

The Velveteen Rabbit A Hangar Theatre KIDDSTUFF Production Adapted by Kevin Del Aguila Based on the book by Margery...

Hangar Theatre 801 Taughannock Blvd, Ithaca, NY 14850

07/11/2025 3:00 PM

On Friday, July 11, 2025 starting at 3pm, we have Wineries without Walls taking over our tasting bar!!! These micro...

Lakefront Park, 35 Lake Front Dr, Geneva, NY 14456, USA

07/11/2025 3:00 PM

On Friday, July 11, 2025 starting at 3pm, we have Wineries without Walls taking over our tasting bar!!! These micro...

Lakefront Park, 35 Lake Front Dr, Geneva, NY 14456, USA

07/11/2025 4:00 PM recurs every day

It’ll be here before you know it! SUMMERFEST ā€˜25 is the weekend of July 11, 12, 13. Fireworks, live music...

666 S Exchange St, Geneva, NY 14456

07/11/2025 5:00 PM

Come enjoy some of the area's best live music and BBQ while supporting local artists! See Rocco Sole live at Lincoln...

245 S Main St, Canandaigua, NY 14424, USA

07/11/2025 5:00 PM

Celebrate the joy of color and creativity at the art gallery debut of Pom Pom artist Jeanine Lorenzo! Join us for...

Cortland Corset Building, 75 E Court St, Cortland, NY 13045, USA

07/11/2025 6:00 PM

90 Proof returns to The BoatYard Grill with their 1970’s classic rock show!!!!! ...

525 Old Taughannock Blvd, Ithaca, NY 14850

07/11/2025 6:00 PM

Shackwater is excited to return to The Vista for the 2025 Summer Schedule. This is an amazing venue and a great way...

1 Lake Front Dr, Geneva, NY 14456, USA

$10.00

07/11/2025 6:00 PM

Calling all the DANCING QUEENS! Join us July 11th from 6-10pm in the Courtroom on the 2nd floor for a memorable night...

200 E Church St, Elmira, NY 14901, USA

07/11/2025 6:00 PM

Oh yeah summer time at TR by the lake!  ...

5226 E Lake Rd, Honeoye, NY 14471, USA

07/11/2025 7:00 PM

A victim of his own anger, the Kid (Prince) is a Minneapolis musician on the rise with his band, the Revolution, escaping...

82 Seneca St, Geneva, NY 14456, USA

07/11/2025 8:00 PM

FRIDAY NIGHT 7/11…Come join us Sons & Daughters of Italy - Geneva Lodge 2397 for a ā€œFUNNYā€...

31 Prospect Ave, Geneva, NY 14456, USA

$12.51

07/11/2025 8:00 PM

The hysterical Cindy Arena is taking the stage at Fingerlakes Live for one night only. Guarenteed to make you laugh,...

37 E Castle St, Geneva, NY 14456, USA

07/12/2025 7:00 AM

This inaugural half marathon and marathon trail run explores the town and trails that make the scenic backdrop of...

8165 NY-245, Naples, NY 14512

07/12/2025 9:00 AM

Come support all of our wonderful vendors at the 3rd Annual Naples Valley Vendor & Craft Fair at the Naples Memorial...

135 N Main St, Naples, NY 14512, USA

07/12/2025 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

07/12/2025 9:00 AM

SMACC is hosting monthly farmers markets this summer June - September! All of these are held in the parking lot of...

9 N Main St, Manchester, NY 14504, USA

07/12/2025 9:30 AM

This beloved community event returns this July, offering you the chance to explore eight all-new destinations, each...

55 N Main St, Canandaigua, NY 14424, USA

07/12/2025 10:00 AM

Come support all of our wonderful vendors at the 3rd Annual Naples Valley Vendor & Craft Fair at the Naples Memorial...

135 N Main St, Naples, NY 14512

07/12/2025 11:00 AM

"Immigrants Who Got the Job Done: Foreign Fighters in the American Revolution": In celebration of the 250th...

166 Main St, Penn Yan, NY 14527

07/12/2025 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

07/12/2025 11:00 AM

Join the Rochester Area Triathletes (RATs) for the 3rd Annual Underpants Run benefiting the Geneva Center of Concern....

499 Exchange St, Geneva, NY 14456, USA

07/12/2025 11:00 AM

Calling all EXPLORERS! Bring your curiosity and join us for a special storytime led by local community guests! For...

176 Genesee St, Auburn, NY 13021, USA

$0.00

07/12/2025 11:30 AM

Gatherer's Gourmet Granola located in Schenectady, will be doing a FREE tasting on Saturday, July 12, 2025 starting...

Lakefront Park, 35 Lake Front Dr, Geneva, NY 14456

$55

07/12/2025 1:00 PM

Untangle from People-Pleasing for True Freedom Saturday, July 12th1:00–3:00 PM Led by Professional Certified...

Yoga Love of Honeoye Falls 4 Ontario St, Honeoye Falls, NY 14472

07/12/2025 1:00 PM

Every Sunday from 1pm-4pm, there will be rockin’ music at Hosmer Winery! NO cover charge, rain or shine! Fun...

Ovid, NY 14521, USA

07/12/2025 1:00 PM

Join us for a Saturday afternoon of good tunes from the Petty Thieves! 1pm-4pm music will be playing and wine will...

Ovid, NY 14521, USA

07/12/2025 2:00 PM

The Endless Mountain Derelicts are excited to return to Muranda Cheese! Come hang out at one of our favorite spots...

3075 NY-96, Waterloo, NY 13165

07/12/2025 5:00 PM

There's 55 artists on the Greater Ithaca Art Trail and 15 of them will open their studios to you on Saturday,...

320 W State St, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA

07/12/2025 6:00 PM

Miller & The Other Sinners return to Peacemaker Brewing Co. Saturday! $5 cover at the door! ...

39 Coach St, Canandaigua, NY 14424, USA

07/12/2025 6:00 PM

The Ampersand Project is bringing its pop/country jams to Grist Iron Brewing Company on July 12th, from 6-9 PM! ...

4880 NY-414, Burdett, NY 14818, USA

07/12/2025 6:00 PM

Geneva Club Beverage / Pepsi & Ferris Mowers present Family Autograph Night this weekend at Land of Legends Raceway...

2820 Co Rd 10, Canandaigua, NY 14424

07/12/2025 6:30 PM

OFFSITE - class at 92 Gray Rd Ithaca Join our rotating teachers at the Field & Flora flower farm on Saturday...

509 N Meadow St, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA

07/12/2025 7:00 PM

Reminder This Saturday at 7pm come down and watch the parade and check out the YMCA festival at the recreation center...

79 Geneva St, Geneva, NY 14456, USA

07/12/2025 7:00 PM

Watkins Glen Band plays outdoors for a Hungry Tiger Block Party! Don't miss! ...

120 Charter Oak St, Manchester, CT 06040

$45.00

07/13/2025 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

07/13/2025 10:00 AM

Little Clover Wine Co. located in Watkins Glen, will be doing a FREE tasting on Sunday, July 13, 2025 starting at...

Lakefront Park, 35 Lake Front Dr, Geneva, NY 14456, USA

07/13/2025 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

07/13/2025 11:00 AM

Join us for a leisurely session of yoga in the pasture surrounded by goats! All skill levels welcome.Prior yoga experience...

5661 S Street Rd, Auburn, NY 13021, USA

07/13/2025 11:00 AM

Come join us for a Jazz Brunch in this Classic setting, the Beautiful Geneva on the Lake!! Me on Guitar with the Amazing...

1001 Lochland Rd, Geneva, NY 14456

07/13/2025 12:00 PM

Celebrate Ukrainian Heritage! Join us once again at our annual summer festival and enjoy great music, delicious ethnic...

136 Washington St, Auburn, NY 13021, USA


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!šŸƒā€ā™‚ļøšŸ’› 

As a reminder, contact us if you'd like to advertise your business or event.

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Finger Lakes Connected