June 26, 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: "Pets and Mental Health," "Pros and Cons of a Home Privacy Fence," and "Most Popular 4th of July Food."

Author

Don Stevens
June 26, 2025

Community News

💧 1. Phosphorus Reduction Plan Approved for Skaneateles Lake

Summary: The DEC and DOS greenlighted a watershed plan to cut phosphorus in Skaneateles Lake, protecting the region’s water quality and drinking supply for over 150,000 people.

🛒 2. Guide to Smarter Global Shopping for FLX Residents

Summary: A new FL1 guide helps Finger Lakes residents online shop more economically—especially for hard-to-find items—highlighting financial and convenience benefits.

🌱 3. Wayne County Farms Receive Major Food System Grants

Summary: Two farms, including Headwater Foods, received part of a $13.7M state grant to invest in climate-controlled facilities—boosting local ag-infrastructure and food resilience.

💡 4. Business Starter Guide Published for Finger Lakes Entrepreneurs

Summary: A new guide highlights how the Finger Lakes is an attractive space for small business ventures—especially in wine, organic farming, and tourism—thanks to tourism spending and funding access.

🤝 5. Yates Community Center Awarded $5,000 Grant

Summary: A grant from the Yates Community Endowment will support the center's programs and aid plans for a future 35,000‑sq‑ft community hub offering wellness, education, and family services.

Thompson Again Earns Distinction for Birthing Center

UR Medicine Thompson Health has once again earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® for Advanced Certification in Perinatal Care by demonstrating continuous compliance with performance standards.

The Joint Commission is a nonprofit organization focused on quality improvement and patient safety. Its perinatal certification – which Thompson first received in 2023 – recognizes the hospital’s efforts to achieve integrated, coordinated, and patient-centered prenatal through postpartum care, including care for both complicated and uncomplicated pregnancies. It is based on standards, guidelines and The Joint Commission’s perinatal care measure set for managing and monitoring aspects of perinatal care that are critical to improving and maintaining the health of newborns and their mothers.

Nearly 800 babies were delivered at Thompson in 2024. The hospital’s recertification is the result of a rigorous, unannounced site visit in April of this year, during which the surveyor complimented staff on high breastfeeding rates and low C-section rates for first-time moms.

The designation is offered in collaboration with the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. When Thompson first received it, the hospital was one of the first two in the state to acquire it.

“We greatly appreciate the efforts of all our Birthing Center associates and providers,” said President/CEO Michael F. Stapleton, Jr. “Special thanks to Director of Obstetrical Nursing KyShara Penns and Dr. Francis Finneran for their exceptional leadership.”

For more information, visit The Joint Commission website.

 

Thompson Fares Well in Rochester Contest

UR Medicine Thompson Health is a finalist in not just one, but four categories of the 2025 Reader Rankings sponsored by The Rochester Business Journal and The Daily Record.

“This recognition is a true testament to the dedication and hard work of our entire team, and having the recognition come from a Rochester-based publication demonstrates how we are building our reputation beyond Ontario County and throughout the region,” said President/CEO Michael F. Stapleton, Jr.

Readers’ votes placed the Canandaigua-based nonprofit health system among the three finalists in Best Assisted Living Facility (Clark Meadows), Best Hospital, Best Company Culture, and Best Company to Work For (1,000+ employees).

An awards ceremony is scheduled for July 22, when the top winner in each category will be announced.

Wood Library

Where Tradition, Technology and Community Meet

ADULT PROGRAMS:

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

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

 

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

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

Wednesday, July 2 | 5:30-6:30 PM

 

Tuesday, July 1 | 2:00-3:30 PM

Peer or professionally-led groups for caregivers, individuals living with Alzheimer's, and others dealing with the disease.

 

Saturday, July 5 | 12:00-1:00 PM

For caregivers of neurodiverse and/or medically complex children.

 

ADULT & TEEN PROGRAM:

Wednesday, July 2 | 6:00-7:00 PM

Free community lessons and matchplay. Free chips & guacamole! Limited seats. Reserve a seat at 585-394-9380.

 

TEEN PROGRAMS:

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

Play in the library after hours! Registration required.

 

Thursday, July 3 | 12:00-1:00 PM

Grades 7-12. A meeting for any teen interested in participating in our Teen Theater production. Registration required.

 

CHILDREN PROGRAMS:

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

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

 

Monday, June 30 | 4:30-6:30 PM

Ages 4+. Go from garbage to garden and learn how to safely create a paper mache flower pot!

 

Tuesday, July 1 | 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.

 

Saturday, July 5 | 10:30-11:15 AM

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

 

Summer Storytimes

Baby Storytime 9:30-10:00 AM

Mondays: July 7, 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 7, 14, 21 & 28, August 4, 11, 18 & 25

Thursdays: July 3, 10, 17, 24 & 31, August 7, 14, 21 & 28

 

RECURRING PROGRAMS:

 

Wood Walkers- Mondays | 9:00-10:00AMďťż

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 CafĂŠ 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

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

Cayuga Lake Wine Trail Kicks Off Summer Live Music

The trail hosts weekend live music, enhancing wine tasting experiences across various wineries on Cayuga Lake.

Hosmer Winery Celebrates 40 Years

Hosmer Winery marks four decades in the Finger Lakes with special celebrations highlighted in a recent FLX Weekly podcast.

FLX Craft Beverage Passport Now Available

The 2025 ROC/FLX Craft Beverage Passport offers special deals at 28 breweries, cideries, distilleries, and wineries.

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:

Pets and Mental Health: Statistics, Negative Effects, Depression & Anxiety

Adding a pet to your family means the responsibility of another being.  It means an investment of finances, time, energy, and commitment.  There is also the reward of companionship, usually unconditional affection, routine, and improved mental health. Read More.

Pros and Cons of a Home Privacy Fence: Home privacy fence ideas

For many homeowners they are debating whether or not to install a privacy fence.  While, when properly installed, they can enhance the landscape, they can also stick out like a sore thumb in the neighborhood.  You will also need to first research if there are any restrictions from your HOA (home owner’s association) or in the covenants of your subdivision.  If there are provisions, be sure to comply in size, materials, or other conditions. Read More

Most popular 4th of July food: Independence Day Menu

With the nation’s birthday on a Friday this year, that gives us even more time to celebrate.  Before all the pyrotechnics, enjoy some delicious food with friends and family.  Here are some options.  Some of these have dairy, so safety first during the heat of summer.  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.

 06/27/2025 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 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

 06/28/2025 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

 06/28/2025 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

$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

 06/28/2025 10:00 AM

Over twenty vendors for your shopping pleasure! Food truck available for your lunch, onsite parking, picnic pavilion,... 

 8868 South St, Weedsport, NY 13166

 06/28/2025 11:00 AM

Three Brothers Wineries and Estates located in Geneva, will be doing a FREE tasting on Saturday, June 28, 2025 starting... 

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

 06/28/2025 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

 06/28/2025 12:00 PM

Right in our back yard! Take advantage of the beauty of the Fingerlakes at Point of Bluff Vineyards. Fresh food, award-winning... 

 10489 Co Rd 76, Hammondsport, NY 14840

 06/28/2025 5:00 PM

2025 edition of the Trail Running Film Festival ... 

 151 S Main St, Naples, NY 14512

 06/28/2025 7:30 PM

Winter Village Music is organizing a benefit concert in support of Ithaca Welcomes Refugees' (IWF) Spring Appeal.... 

 309 N Cayuga St, Ithaca, NY 14850

 06/29/2025 9:00 AM

Spend the day getting CREATIVE in the GARDEN! Join us for this free event that is open to all ages. Registration... 

 26 W Bayard St, Seneca Falls, NY 13148, USA

$45.00

 06/29/2025 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

 06/29/2025 10:00 AM

Join us for Arts Day on Sunday, June 29 from 10AM - 1PM. This exciting event will feature a variety of art-related... 

 108 Ovid St, Seneca Falls, NY 13148, USA

 06/29/2025 10:00 AM

$15 per Dinner Dinners include: Chicken, Macaroni Salad, Cole Slaw and Salt Potatoes! No tickets required! ... 

 3191 Co Rd 10, Canandaigua, NY 14424, USA

 06/29/2025 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

 06/29/2025 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!... 

 06/29/2025 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

$49.87

 06/29/2025 4:00 PM

Art-Style Focaccia Bread & Soup Class June 29th | 4:00 PM Deb and Mona are back! ... 

 100 Castle St, Geneva, NY 14456

 06/29/2025 5:00 PM

Come on out, bring the whole familia and dance like you are at the beach. It’s summer in the Finger Lakes and... 

 321 W State St, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA

 06/30/2025 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

 07/01/2025 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

 07/05/2025 2:00 PM recurs every 4 weeks

Back to the Basics is a monthly market focusing on community sufficiency through teaching natural wellness, homesteading,... 

 250 Gorham St, Canandaigua, NY 14424, USA

$10.00

 07/08/2025 5:30 PM

Check out our newly updated website for daily schedule of events, 2025 Premium List Open Class Fair Book, Demolition... 

 2370 Old Rte 14A, Penn Yan, NY 14527

$20.00 - $55.00

 07/10/2025 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

 07/12/2025 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 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

$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

 07/13/2025 2:00 PM

Enjoy a feast for ears and eyes at Orchestra in the Pines! This June, the Finger Lakes Symphony Orchestra will perform... 

 RMSC Cumming Nature Center, 6472 Gulick Rd, Naples, NY 14512, USA

$600

 07/13/2025 3:00 PM

This retreat, open to both men and women, offers a sacred opportunity to step away from the busyness of daily life... 

 Notre Dame Retreat House 5151 Foster Rd, Canandaigua, NY 14424

100.00

 07/15/2025 6:00 PM

Join us on July 15th for The Divas & Dogs Fashion Show, Dinner & Silent Auction! We'll be presenting fashions... 

 The Fallbrook House 1 Fallbrook Park, Canandaigua, NY 14424

Varies by event

 07/18/2025 2:00 PM

CHAMBERFEST CANANDAIGUA ANNOUNCES  21ST SEASON LINEUP FOR SUMMER 2025  Join us this summer to experience... 

 ChamberFest Canandaigua 

35.00

 07/18/2025 7:15 PM

GRAMMY award-winning classical guitarist Jason Vieaux has time and again been lauded for his “eloquent and vibrant... 

 Cobblestone Arts Center 1622 NY-332, Farmington, NY 14425

45.00

 07/20/2025 2:00 PM

Experience the unbeatable matching of local wine with luscious chamber music, all with the unique Tuscan setting of... 

 Ventosa Vineyards 3440 NY-96A, Geneva, NY 14456


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