June 19, 2025 (Resent)

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: "Cleaning Outdoor Space," "Types of Meatballs," and "Meatball Recipes."

Community News

🛍️ Eastview Mall Welcomes New Fashion Retailer and Store Relocation

Date: June 18, 2025
Summary:
Eastview Mall in Victor (Ontario County) continues to grow with the opening of Aur Society, a trendy women’s fashion brand launching its first Northeast location. At the same time, popular retailer Buckle is relocating to a larger storefront within the mall. These developments reflect strong retail momentum in the region.
🔗 Read the article

🥛 $270M Expansion Opens at Cayuga Milk Ingredients

Date: June 18, 2025
Summary:
In Aurelius (Cayuga County), Cayuga Milk Ingredients celebrated the grand opening of its $270 million expansion project, bringing up to 150 new jobs to the region. The new facility enhances dairy processing capacity and supports New York’s agriculture industry, with backing from state grants and tax credits.
🔗 Read the article

🏗️ New Office Park and Supply Store Coming to Lansing

Date: June 17, 2025
Summary:
Lansing (Tompkins County) is getting a boost with the planned development of a new ABC Building Supply in a former grocery store, plus a proposed professional office park across the road. The multi-phase project will bring new jobs, retail, and business space to the community.
🔗 Read the article

☕ New Café Opens in Downtown Watkins Glen

Date: June 11, 2025
Summary:
Just in time for tourist season, Central Sip Café has opened in Watkins Glen (Schuyler County). The café combines a bagel bakery, sandwich shop, coffeehouse, and ice cream bar into one cozy space. Owner Raeann Rathbun transformed her food truck business into a full-scale eatery, quickly earning community praise.
🔗 Read the article

🚴 Clyde Aims to Become Official Trail Town

Date: June 12, 2025
Summary:
The Village of Clyde (Wayne County) is pushing for Empire State Trail Town status to attract more biking tourism via the Erie Canalway Trail. Local leaders and trail consultants are working to improve cyclist-friendly amenities and boost business traffic in the village through outdoor recreation.
🔗 Read the article

‘The Milk Bar’ Meets at Thompson July 2

UR Medicine Thompson Health has a new, monthly support group for moms.

Called “The Milk Bar,” the group is intended to be “a safe and nurturing space designed for moms to come together, share experiences, and support one another on their motherhood journey.” It is hosted by Thompson’s lactation consultant, Courtney Stuhlman, but is for all moms, whether or not they are breastfeeding. Babies are welcome, as are children up to age 2.

The next meeting is scheduled for 10 a.m. to noon on Wednesday, July 2, in the Birthing Center classroom on the second floor of Thompson Hospital, 350 Parrish St. in Canandaigua.

The group will then continue meeting the first Wednesday of every month. For more information, call 585-396-6295.

 

Regional Stroke Support Group Meets Via Zoom July 3

The regional Stroke Support Group hosted by UR Medicine Thompson Health will meet at 1 p.m. on Thursday, July 3, via Zoom.

The group is open to stroke survivors as well as their loved ones and caregivers. To be added to the invite list for the July 3 meeting, email [email protected].

F.F. Thompson Hospital is a New York State Department of Health-designated Stroke Center and has advanced certification from The Joint Commission as an Advanced Primary Stroke Center. The hospital is also a recipient of the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association’s Get With The Guidelines®  Gold Plus Quality Achievement Award. The award recognizes the hospital’s commitment to ensuring stroke patients receive the most appropriate treatment according to nationally accepted, research-based guidelines.

Wood Library

Where Tradition, Technology and Community Meet

June 27-August 15

Children:

Early Literacy (Birth-PreK) – Cross off activities as you complete them! Finish the board, come in and claim a prize. 

Grades K–5 – Complete the activity sheet! Multiple prizes are available throughout the summer, along with raffle tickets to win a $50 Amazon gift card.

Teens & Adults:

Log minutes to win prizes! Three teen readers will win a $50, $75, or $100 Amazon gift card. Adult readers will earn virtual raffle tickets. Anyone that logs time through ReadSquared is eligible to win. The more time you log, the better the chances are at winning!

REGISTER ONLINE OR ON THE READSQUARED APP

 

ADULT PROGRAMS:

Friday, June 20 | 3:30-4:30 PM

Ontario County Workforce Development will discuss what to expect in job interviews and how to make a good first impression. Can’t make it to the workshop? Call 585-396-4020 for assistance. Registration required.

 

Sunday, June 15-Friday, July 25

Artist Reception: Saturday, June 21 | 1:00-3:00 PM

Members of the Arts Council display, share and sell their recent works! Artists work in a variety of styles and formats and include painters, photographers, printmakers, and fiber artists.

 

Sunday, June 22 | 2:00-4:00 PM

Create your own arrangement of painted wood flowers in a mason jar while sipping wine! The cost is $45 per class/person and includes all supplies and a drink of your choice. Registration required.

 

Monday, June 23 | 6:00-7:30 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.

 

Tuesday, June 24 | 7:00-8:00 PM

Read and discuss My Heart is a Chainsaw by Stephen Graham Jones. Registration required.

 

Wednesday, June 25 | 11:00 AM-12:00 PM

Help the person with dementia take part in daily activities, providing the right amount of support and balancing safety and independence while managing expectations. Registration required.

 

Wednesday, June 25 | 1:00-3:00 PM

For persons with Parkinson’s disease and caregivers.

 

Thursday, June 26 | 5:00-7:00 PM

Learn how to improve your computer's performance, stability, and speed with regular maintenance tasks. Sponsored by a grant from the Office for the Aging. Grant requirements: Participants must be an Ontario County resident and 60+ years of age. Registration required.

 

Thursday, June 26 | 5:30-7:30 PM

'Slay for the Cameras' Murder Mystery Party. Uncover secrets, solve challenges, and expose a killer. Registration required.

 

Friday, June 27 | 6:00-8:00 PM

The Lipker Sisters, a three piece jazz and swing band concert! Registration required.

 

Saturday, June 28 | 11:00 AM-12:00 PM

Learn to line dance and make new friends! The cost is $10 per person. Payment due at class. Registration required.

 

TEEN PROGRAMS:

Wednesday, June 25 | 6:00-7:30 PM

Discuss Amelia, If Only by Becky Albertalli and/or Summer Girls by Jennifer Dugan. Registration required.

 

Thursday, June 26 | 1:00-3:00 PM

Learn to play new games with John Michalko! Registration required.

 

Friday, June 27 | 2:30-4:00 PM

A limited number of "Color Our World" t-shirts and bandanas will be available to the first 35 who register! If you don't get a shirt or bandana, you are welcome to bring something from home to dye. Registration required.

 

Friday, June 27 | 6:30-8:00 PM

Play in the library after hours! Registration required.

 

CHILDREN PROGRAMS:

Saturday, June 21 | 10:30-11:15 AM

Let's dance! We'll start with a fun story and then dance and move to our favorite songs.

 

Saturday, June 21 | 12:00-1:00 PM

For caregivers of neurodiverse and/or medically complex children.

 

Tuesday, June 24 | 5:00-6:00 PM

A book club aimed at parents and kids with a focus on chapter books. We will be discussing The Van Gogh Deception by Deron R. Hicks.

 

Wednesday, June 25 | 4:00-5:00 PM

Make and learn how to use a sundial to tell time!

 

Friday, June 27 | 12:00-2:00 PM

Bring your own item to tie-dye and get creative. Registration required.

 

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

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

🎡 Local Business Spotlight: The Yard FLX – Fun for the Whole Family in Watkins Glen

👩‍💼 Meet the Owner & Team

  • Aimee Barton, Founder and Owner: After 25 years in the mortgage industry, Aimee launched this community‑focused venture, inspired by dynamic entertainment hubs like those she saw in Dallas. Her goal: bring affordable, family‑centered fun back to the Finger Lakes Aimeetheyardflx.com.

  • Jessica Mosher, Operations Manager, oversees daily operations and guest experiences alongside

Looking for a one-stop spot for outdoor fun in the Finger Lakes? Look no further than The Yard FLX, a dynamic amusement destination. Whether you're a thrill-seeker or just looking to enjoy some laid-back family time, this locally beloved attraction offers something for everyone.

🚗 Attractions Galore

At The Yard FLX, excitement is just around the corner. Speed around their go-kart track, challenge your friends to a round of mini golf, or enjoy one of their many other on-site attractions. The facility is thoughtfully designed to entertain guests of all ages.

🍔 Food and Convenience

Need a bite between adventures? The Yard FLX serves food, ensuring you can refuel without leaving the fun behind. Plus, with a clean restroom on site, your visit is sure to be comfortable and convenient.

Whether you're local or just passing through the scenic Watkins Glen area, make sure to swing by The Yard FLX – it's fun, fast, and family-friendly.

📍 Plan Your Visit:

The Yard FLX

Address: 2374 NY-414, Watkins Glen, NY 14891

Phone: (607) 210-4125

Stonecuttter's Tavern at Belhurst Castle and Winery

Join us for the best Happy Hour around.

Saturday June 28th & Sunday June 29th, 2025, 10 am – 5 pm
ADMISSION $10     |     3-15 YEARS OLD $5.00     |     CHILDREN UNDER 3 FREE
 Presenting the 24th Annual Arts At The Gardens

This year there will be a different layout and format to include more artisans. As usual, there is a Juried Fine Art Show as you have seen in the past.  This will include a tent with up-and-coming Emerging Artists. For the first time in 2025, Sonnenberg is showcasing a dedicated area for Non-Juried Artists who may not fit or wish to be in the juried show.

Art, music, food, wine, and all the beauty and elegance of the Sonnenberg Estate make for a wonderful way to spend a summer day.

Finger Lakes Wine & Beverage News

🍺 Seneca Lake Brewers Unite for “Pure Brew” to Protect the Lake

Date: June 7, 2025
Summary:
Over a dozen Seneca Lake breweries have launched PURE Brew 2025, a New York–style Pilsner made with 100% NY-grown ingredients and lake water. The beer will be served July 25–Aug 3 during “Pure Brew Week,” with proceeds supporting the Seneca Lake Pure Waters Association. The initiative highlights local collaboration and environmental advocacy.
🔗 Read the article

Bourbon Brunch at Miles Wine Cellars
Sunday, June 29th, 10:am and 11:30 am

Enjoy a bourbon-themed brunch menu and a tasting of four local bourbons. Ages 21 and over only. With or without bourbon tasting.

Tickets to our Bourbon Brunch - Without Bourbon Tasting

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

From Our Blog:

Cleaning Outdoor Space

Winter is over, and, hopefully, the Canadian smoke and spring rains as well.  That means it is time to really focus on cleaning up the exterior of your home.  Here are some suggestions of how to revive your patio, landscape, and home. Read More.

Types of Meatballs

We all are familiar with the meatball.  It can be humble or elevated.  They are popular almost everywhere.  Here's some information about the various origins and components.  Visit our companion article for the actual recipes.  Check back next week for more recipes. Read More

Easy & Simple Meatball Recipe: Make Traditional Meatball at Home

These are general recipes to accompany the companion article, which we hope was enjoyable.  Be aware that every family has its own twist on these favorites.  Watch next week for even more exotic meatball recipes from around the world.  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.

 06/18/2025 9:00 AM

This year, the Canandaigua Art & Music Festival will be celebrating 36 years of showcasing Top Artists from around... 

 115 S Main St, Canandaigua, NY 14424, USA

 06/19/2025 5:00 PM

City Limits plays classic rock, soul & blues. Their high energy swing-funk-blues rock will put rhythm in your... 

 3862 County Rd 150, Interlaken, NY 14847, USA

$35.00

 06/19/2025 6:15 PM

Grab a drink, and paint a beautiful summer painting at Lunkenheimer’s in Weedsport to help support your local... 

 8931 N Seneca St, Weedsport, NY 13166

 06/19/2025 6:30 PM recurs every week

A weekly dance for women to connect to their bodies and get out of their heads with free movement. Guided by trained... 

 3986 Jordan Rd, Skaneateles, NY 13152, USA

 06/19/2025 7:00 PM

Duo recital: Harris Han, violin & Alexei Aceto, piano - Program - Johannes BrahmsViolin Sonatas Nos. 1 &... 

 109 Oak Ave, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA

 06/19/2025 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

$20.00 - $55.00

 06/20/2025 N/A recurs every day

Million Dollar Quartet Book by Colin Escott and Floyd Mutrux. Original Concept and Direction by Floyd Mutrux. Inspired... 

 Hangar Theatre 801 Taughannock Blvd, Ithaca, NY 14850

 06/20/2025 5:00 PM

The 7th Annual Ithaca Reggae Fest returns to beautiful Stewart Park in Ithaca, NY with a full weekend of community... 

 1 James L Gibbs Dr, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA

 06/20/2025 6:00 PM

Join us for our inaugural winemaker's dinner, an event that promises to be truly exceptional. I am delighted to... 

 7448 County Rd 153, Ovid, NY 14521, USA

 06/20/2025 6:00 PM

Caviar & Grits is coming to Watkins Glen! Join us for funky, soulful, feel-good originals and local brew. ... 

 2 Seneca Hbr Dr, Watkins Glen, NY 14891, USA

 06/21/2025 8:00 AM

SAVE THE DATE! Get your dunkin' and come on down to the Belle Sherman neighborhood on East Hill in Ithaca on streets... 

 Mitchell St, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA

 06/21/2025 9:00 AM

Join us for our 19th Annual Charity Dice Run to benefit the Finger Lakes Regional Burn Association's "Camp... 

 1103 NY-5, Geneva, NY 14456

 06/21/2025 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

 06/21/2025 9:00 AM recurs every week

Date & Time: Every Saturday at 9am from May 24 to September 27, 2025 Fee: $15 per guest: Arrive 10 - 15 minutes... 

 Italy Hill Rd, Branchport, NY 14418

 06/21/2025 10:00 AM

Join us for a guided tour of Watkins Glen! Whether you are a lifelong resident, a summer resident, returning to see... 

 98 1st St, Watkins Glen, NY 14891, USA

$50..00

 06/21/2025 10:00 AM

- Saturday, June 21st - Location: Annex Room 208 East Buffalo St, Ithaca NY Come experience a special morning just... 

 208 E Buffalo St, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA

 06/21/2025 12:00 PM

Colloca Estate Winery located in Sterling, will be doing a FREE tasting on Saturday, June 21, 2025 starting at 12pm.... 

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

 06/21/2025 1:00 PM

Billsboro Winery located in Geneva, will be doing a FREE tasting on Saturday, June 21, 2025 starting at 1pm. They... 

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

 06/21/2025 2:00 PM

Come and check out Van Gray’s debut at @ Krooked Tusker Distillery! We’ve been wanting to play this location... 

 Hammondsport, NY 14840, USA

 06/21/2025 2:00 PM

Come request your favorite country tunes! ... 

 14322 NY-54, Hammondsport, NY 14840

 06/21/2025 6:00 PM

Meg Williams & Nick Lord (Duo) live at Peacemaker Brewing Company!! Join us for a fun night of great drinks &... 

 39 Coach St, Canandaigua, NY 14424, USA

 06/21/2025 7:00 PM

Get ready for a night of real talk, raw comedy, and nonstop laughs with the one and only Ms. Pat — comedian,... 

 1133 NY-414, Waterloo, NY 13165

 06/21/2025 7:00 PM

We’re back! ... 

 3853 NY-5, Canandaigua, NY 14424

$45.00

 06/22/2025 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

 06/22/2025 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

 06/22/2025 12:00 PM

You don't want to miss Rhizo Remedy's Grand opening party Sunday June 22nd from 12-6 pm!! Monstera Albo... 

 6 Ovid St, Seneca Falls, NY 13148, USA

 06/22/2025 1:00 PM recurs every week

C’mon down!!!! Have some fun…win some $$$$!Don’t know how to play??? Not to worry! Just like Bingo!... 

 06/22/2025 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

 06/22/2025 7:30 PM

ALL ABOARD | LATIN MUSIC & DANCE LOVERS | We’re excited to announce a New Season of Dance Cruises with Discover... 

 119 S Cayuga St, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA

 06/23/2025 5:00 PM

Return to You: 8 weeks Eight slow flow yoga classes designed to take you on a journey back toyourself. To peel back... 

 250 Gorham St, Canandaigua, NY 14424, USA

 06/23/2025 6:30 PM recurs every week

Join us for Monday night line dancing with Kathy Zamniak every Monday in June 2025 at 6PM! FREE lessonsBeginner friendlyOpen... 

 192 State St, Auburn, NY 13021, USA

 06/24/2025 2:00 PM

Every Tuesday Terence will be shaking up $8 martinis from our martini menu made with Deep Lake Vodka. Swing by anytime... 

 301 N Franklin St, Watkins Glen, NY 14891, USA

$10.38

 06/24/2025 5:00 PM

Introducing Dead Dive Happy Hour! Every 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month from 5 to 8pm! Featuring touring Grateful... 

 415 Old Taughannock Blvd, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA

 06/24/2025 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

$25.00

 06/24/2025 6:00 PM

SINGLE TICKETS and SEASON PASS ON SALE NOW!!! https://www.offthedockchamber.com   Check out our FREE Lakside... 

 6 W Genesee St, Skaneateles, NY 13152, USA

 06/24/2025 7:00 PM

Wicked Children are: Judy Hyman, fiddle; Jeff Claus, banjo uke; Gus Tritsch, guitar and fiddle; Huck Tritsch, fiddle... 

 314 E State St Ste 100, Ithaca, NY 14850

$15.00

 06/24/2025 7:30 PM recurs every week

Connect to the rich traditions of Afro-Caribbean rhythm. Move your body with passion and flow. Learn from Adolfo Castillo... 

 19 S Cayuga St, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA

$5.00

 06/25/2025 7:00 AM recurs every 4 weeks

We are excited to bring Line Dancing Lessons to Downtown Geneva! Come on down to FLX Live the last Wednesday of every... 

 427 Exchange St, Geneva, NY 14456, USA

 06/25/2025 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

 06/25/2025 11:00 AM

BerettaFest 2025 will be held in Watkins Glen, New York. Come and be a part of the annual event for all Chevrolet... 

 Watkins Glen, NY

 06/25/2025 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

 06/26/2025 5:30 PM

It’s BOOZY BINGO, Disco Edition at WeBe Brewing Company! Boozy Bingo: Disco Edition – Thursday, June 26... 

 796 Pre Emption Rd, Geneva, NY 14456, USA

 06/26/2025 6:00 PM

Meg Williams live at The Switz!! Join us for a fun evening of live music on the deck. Great drinks, fantastic food... 

 14109 Keuka Village Rd, Hammondsport, NY 14840

 06/26/2025 6:30 PM

Enjoy a fun night of baseball with your family, friends, and colleagues. ... 

 180 Lyceum St, Geneva, NY 14456, USA

$8.95

 06/26/2025 7:00 PM

Widely regarded as one of the greatest films of all time, this mob drama, based on Mario Puzo's novel of the same... 

 82 Seneca St, Geneva, NY 14456, USA

 06/27/2025 9:00 AM

You asked for clearance — we heard you! From June 27 to July 6, Lee Wrangler at the Waterloo Outlet Mall is... 

 655 NY-318, Waterloo, NY 13165, USA

 06/27/2025 8:00 PM

SO excited to play here! Country music new and old! ... 

 207 N Franklin St, Watkins Glen, NY 14891

 06/28/2025 9:00 AM

Peacemaker Brewing Company located in Canandaigua, will be doing a FREE tasting on Saturday, June 28, 2025 starting... 

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

$10.00

 06/28/2025 10:00 AM recurs every day

This year there will be a different layout and format to include more artisans. As usual, there is a Juried Fine Art... 

 250 Gibson St, Canandaigua, NY 14424, USA

Updates

We got a new newsletter platform!

We are switching out our newsletter system for another, more powerful one. This will give us more options to do more things. Please be patient while we migrate. —Thanks

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.

Don,
Finger Lakes Connected