April 24
New Teacups & Treasures Trail Opens
Hit the new Explore NY “Teacups & Treasures” trail. It winds through three scenic counties in the Finger Lakes region. Registration is free, and each visitor will receive a trail map, a Teacups & Treasures membership card and a starter bracelet kit. Each stop along the trail will provide a unique glass bead to add to the bracelet. For more information, go to ExploreNYArts.com.
The new trail welcomes visitors to experience three charming aspects of the Finger Lakes region: the art of the front porch, teacups and the art of giving and having tea, and Tiffany glass and other glass-related arts.
Each front porch on the trail looks forward to welcoming visitors and helping them: discover historical mansions and inns, charming restaurants and shops; learn about the historical and cultural significance of the architecture; enjoy spectacular lake or vineyard views and rolling green country vistas; and take time to dine and shop, too.
Throughout the trail, quaint teashops, markets, picturesque inns and farms await. Visitors can learn more about herbal teas and tea making, watch artisans create teacups and teapots from clay or glass, participate in a formal high tea or far eastern tea ceremonies, or immerse themselves in aromatic teas brewing in a Mackenzie-Childs teapot.
The Teacups & Treasures trail also highlights some of the finest glass art and artistry anywhere in the country: original Tiffany windows in historical churches and chapels, glass making classes and demonstrations at the Corning Museum of Glass, and regional glass artists with incredible works of art and jewelry for sale.
The following trail participants can provide more information: Cayuga County Office of Tourism, TourCayuga.com; Finger Lakes Visitors Connection, VisitFingerLakes.com; Artizanns, Artizanns.com; Smith Opera House Gallery & Gifts, TheSmith.org; Information Center of Corning, CorningNY.com; and Hammondsport Chamber of Commerce, Hammondsport.org.
April 24
Student Artwork to Adorn Aprons
at Culinary Pro-Am
Slice, Dice and Spice NY is a culinary pro-am competition with area chefs and amateurs teaming up to compete in hands-on cooking contests with local ingredients. Partners of Slice, Dice and Spice have put on a community art project, Aprons on Parade. Finger Lakes Visitors Connection, Wegmans, All Things Art and Finger Lakes Gallery and Frame collaborated to hold the contest. High school students were asked to submit artwork representing healthy lifestyles, culinary arts or local agriculture. More than 50 designs were submitted by students from five school districts in Ontario, Livingston and Wayne counties.
The following students’ designs were selected: Joseph Miyazato and Onagh MacKenzie from Naples Central School; Ashley Ludwig, Jenna Cavigliano and Seneca Sherman of Livonia Central H.S.; Lauren Brown, Alexae Ackerman and Melissa Yeaple from Canandaigua Academy; and Tyler Geraci of Mt. Morris School.
The students will be honored April 26 at a private reception for participating art teachers, students and their parents at All Things Art in Canandaigua. The winning students will be presented with their own art printed on aprons, and the winner of the $250 grand prize will be announced.
Each of the winning designs will be printed on the aprons worn by the competing teams at the Slice, Dice and Spice pro-am competition May 12 through 15 at the New York Wine and Culinary Center. For more information, go to SliceDiceAndSpiceNY.com or call the Finger Lakes Visitors Connection at 585-394-3915.
April 24
National Park Service Awards Grant to Cortland
The Cortland Downtown Partnership’s latest collaboration with the City of Cortland and the Cortland County Convention and Visitors Bureau will receive $105,000 in Federal matching funds from the National Park Service’s Preserve America grant program.
Federal funds from the Preserve America program are used to promote America’s heritage and cultural assets. They support planning, development and implementation of innovative activities and programs in heritage tourism as well as the preservation of historic and cultural resources. Locally this grant will be matched against marketing budgets of events in historic downtown Cortland to support special events and downtown Cortland’s architectural heritage.
Linking cultural events to the historic resources that make downtown such a successful venue requires a comprehensive marketing campaign. This campaign will use downtown’s existing events as a marketing tool focused on visitors interested in cultural and heritage tourism. Its goal is to connect downtown’s historic buildings and spaces to our cultural events in the minds of visitors.
This is the second year the Cortland Downtown Partnership has received support from the National Park Service for a historic preservation initiative.
April 24
Rochester Oral History Project Seeks Stories
ARTWalk and the City of Rochester have teamed up with Rochester museums, historical organizations, and the Neighborhood of the Arts business community to create “Rochester Stories: Seeking Histories Large and Small,” an effort to gather a diverse spectrum of personal stories and Rochester histories into a permanent archive. The public is invited to the Rochester Stories event at the Rochester Museum and Science Center on Tuesday, May 6, from 1 to 7 p.m.
Volunteers will be available to record oral histories in the lobby area of the Eisenhart Auditorium Building at the RMSC. “Drop in any time during that timeframe. We are seeking stories of all kinds, from every neighborhood, and every resident is invited,” says ARTWalk spokesperson Debra Jacobson. “We want unusual or offbeat stories as well as common, everyday ones; We want the stories overheard on the back of the bus, at church, or handed down through a family. These stories will help us preserve and honor the past as we build the future together.” Residents are encouraged to come tell their story to a volunteer, bring a photo to be copied, or bring their story in written form if they prefer. Additionally, interested individuals may participate online at RochesterNOTA.org or by calling Karen McCally at the Rochester Historical Society 585-271-2705.
In addition, from 1 to 5 p.m., in the Eisenhart Auditorium at RMSC, professional and community historians will give short talks about a wide range of topics relating to Rochester’s past, such as what has happened over time at Midtown, the city’s struggles for race and gender equality, stories of the ARTWalk/NOTA area, and the long history of the Memorial Art Gallery campus. “People should feel free to come for ten minutes or to settle in for the afternoon,” said organizer Marianne Kroon.
April 24
Luncheon Program to Mark
National Tourism Week
The Cayuga County Office of Tourism will join hundreds of cities, states and businesses nationwide in the annual salute to travel and tourism in America with a special luncheon program on May 15 in honor of National Tourism Week, a collective effort to promote the power of travel through customized events in communities throughout the nation. The goal is to bring recognition to the economic, cultural and social benefits created by travel and tourism. The 2008 theme for National Tourism Week is “Discover Great American Traditions,” encouraging travel to American locales and highlighting the role tourism plays in discovering local destinations such as the homes of William H. Seward, Harriet Tubman and Theodore Case.
The luncheon will begin with the Chair of the Cayuga County Legislature, Roger Mills, officially proclaiming May 10 through 18 National Tourism Week in Cayuga County.
The focus of the luncheon will be an update on the “Call to Action: Blueprint for our Region’s Future,” facilitated by Senator Michael F. Nozzolio. The “Blueprint” was produced by a group of concerned citizens who have identified key issues confronting our community and the action items that need to be implemented to push Auburn and Cayuga County forward. Reports will be given on the creation of a world class Musical Theatre Festival in Auburn, infrastructure technology, health care issues, riverfront development, the Center for Entrepreneurial Studies, watershed protection, and job retention and recruitment.
Following the ‘Blueprint’ update, annual tourism awards will be presented, recognizing those who have made outstanding contributions to the tourism industry in Cayuga County.
The luncheon will be held at The Springside Inn and begins at noon. To make reservations, call the Cayuga County Office at Tourism at 315-255-1658 by May 1.
March 25
Blanket Project Brings Warmth to Transplant Patients
Liver transplant recipients Matthew Polisseni of Caledonia and Eugene Daggett of Cazenovia along with heart candidate James Terwilliger of Homer, Shirley Newman, kidney recipient of Fairport and her donor, were the first at Strong Memorial Hospital to each receive a fleece blanket made by members of Transplant Awareness Organization of Greater Rochester (TAO) for the Transplant Blanket Donation Project.
Presenting the blankets were Debbie Yendrzeski of Fairport, TAO board member along with George and Maria Fiorille of Moravia, founders of the Blanket Project. “ TAO is very glad to be able to continue this project and help Maria achieve her goal,” said Yendrzeski, “The patients are very moved.”
The Transplant Blanket Donation Project was founded in memory of Sharon Fiorille, who received two liver transplants. During her last surgery, her daughter, Maria, made a fleece blanket that gave her the “little piece of home” that she longed for.
“She loved the blanket and took it everywhere she went in the hospital,” said Maria. “After my Mother passed away, it was brought to my attention that some patients are awaiting organs or recovering from transplant with no family or loved ones at their side. In my Mother’s memory, I started this project to help bring a smile to their faces.”
TAO is a nonprofit organization that offers support, understanding, education and resources for transplant recipients, candidates and their families. For more information about TAO and the blanket project, call 1-800- 664-1463 or visit www.TAO-Rochester.org.
March 25
New Vintages Released
Montezuma Winery has released three new vintages, a Seyval Blanc, a Canvasback Red and Golden Delicious.
Seyval Blanc is a dry white wine light and refreshing with crisp tones of lemon and pineapple. This wine is a tribute to the Osprey that reign over the Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge. These large birds of prey can be seen soaring above their enormous nests from our tasting room.
Canvasback Red, named after the winemaker’s favorite waterfowl, is a dry medium-bodied hybrid from a blend of Dechaunac, Leon Millot and Maréchal Foch grapes, with rich tones of dark cherry, plums, and soft tannins. It accompanies grilled steak, pot roast or pasta well.
Golden Delicious is a winner of 3 gold medals. This semi-sweet apple wine can be served chilled or warmed with mulling spices. It pairs well with pork or hot apple pie. For more information, contact Montezuma Winery at 315-568-8190 or visit www.MontezumaWinery.com.
March 25
Call for Finger Lakes Cultural
and Natural History Museum
Citing two major museums located in the Adirondack Mountains, Dansville resident John Adamski has proposed the creation of a new museum that would showcase the 9,000 square-mile Finger Lakes Region.
The long-established Adirondack Museum located in Blue Mountain Lake celebrates the region’s cultural history, craftsmanship and lore. The new Natural History Museum of the Adirondacks in Tupper Lake, also known as The Wild Center, features live exhibits dealing with Adirondack ecology, environment, fish and wildlife.
“We have no cultural or natural history museum to focus attention on one of the most beautiful, ecologically diverse and popular regions of New York State,” Adamski said. “My idea is a combination of the two – the Finger Lakes Cultural and Natural History Museum.”
Adamski proposes exhibits that include Native American culture,
European colonization and the histories of agriculture, viniculture and commerce. Artifacts would range from antique boats and farm equipment to an immense freshwater aquarium containing fish species native to the Finger Lakes. Indoor exhibits would illustrate specimens of native wildlife in natural settings and outdoor exhibits would feature live animals like river otters and the Seneca White Deer. Special focus would be given to invasive species such as zebra mussels.
Each of the eleven Finger Lakes would be featured with geographical, geological, glacial and topographic details as well as a huge relief map showing the relationship of the lakes to one another.
Also proposed are an art and photo gallery, an auditorium, a bookstore and a research library. Flex-space would be provided for other regional museums and historical societies to present exhibits on a rotating basis. “I am extending an invitation to historical societies from the 14 counties that comprise the Finger Lakes Region and colleges and universities within those counties to each submit their own proposals for exhibits,” Adamski stated.
Adamski has already met with the founders of both Adirondack museums who endorsed his idea and offered their assistance. Life in the Finger Lakes magazine and its editor, Mark Stash, also support the idea and have volunteered to partner in its promotion. Finger Lakes Community College professor emeritus Bill Banaszewski, founder of the college’s Environmental Conservation Department, has offered his expertise to establish the natural history department as well.
“These partnerships are a great beginning but more support is needed,” Adamski said. “We are looking for Finger Lakes Region businesses, individuals, industries and wineries to become stakeholders in helping to make the region even more attractive as a tourist destination.”
Please e-mail John Adamski with questions, comments or offers of help at jbadams@frontiernet.net.
March 25
Technology Farm Tenants Benefit
from Restore NY Grant
A $2.5 million Restore NY grant, used to redevelop properties on the site of the former Seneca Army Depot, will benefit two businesses residing at the Cornell Agriculture and Food Technology Park.
According to State Sen. Michael Nozzolio’s office, funds will be used to retrofit a 40,000-square-foot building to be used by Top Quality Hay Processors for indoor hay drying. The process takes hay cut from the field through drying and baling in a matter of hours instead of several days, reducing effects of the weather.
Funding will also be used to rehab a 400,000-square-foot industrial building to be used as a manufacturing facility for Seneca BioEnergy (a soy bean and canola processor that produces alternative biodiesel energy) and to provide infrastructure improvements for a plant to be used by Empire Green Biofuels (a company promoting the use of green energy).
“These Restore NY funds will allow us to rehabilitate over 400,000 square feet of warehouse space,” said Mike Coia, general manager of Seneca BioEnergy. “We will also heat the building using biomass heat through the use of woodchips.” The initial project being implemented by Seneca BioEnergy will rehabilitate the two existing buildings, in preparation for leasing to other agriculture-based and renewable energy tenants. Their follow-up expansion will involve construction and operation of a 15 million gallon-per-year oilseed processing and biodiesel production plant over the next 18 months.
The three-year, $300 million Restore NY Communities Initiative was established by the state Legislature in the 2006-2007 state budget and is administered by the Empire State Development Corporation. Grants are awarded on a competitive basis to municipalities to demolish or rehabilitate qualified commercial or residential structures, making these cleared or restored sites attractive to residents and businesses.
The Cornell Agriculture and Food Technology Park is a 72-acre campus that enables collaboration between the Cornell University faculty and the New York State Agricultural Experiment Station.
March 25
Historic Local B&B in the Spotlight
Barrister’s Bed and Breakfast in Seneca Falls was featured on an episode of “If Walls Could Talk” on the HGTV cable network on March 10, 2008 at 6:30 p.m. The segment appears in episode 1905, titled “Civil War Shocker.” In the show, a surprise is uncovered in a backyard, and items from two historic homes are appraised.
This series shares lore and intrigue from homes rich in history. Many of the featured buildings have housed famous – or infamous – characters, while others are the sites of significant historical events. Some of the selected structures are simply filled with good stories or were home to everyday people with colorful pasts.
The building that now houses Barrister’s dates to 1888. Built by Attorney T.J. Yawger and his wife Harriet Weed Yawger, the home was designed with fine details like quarter-sawn oak paneling, carved oak mantels, graceful stained glass windows and expansive porches. Of the previous male homeowners, four of the last five were attorneys, hence the name Barrister’s. For additional information or to make a reservation, call 315-568-0145 or visit the website, SleepBarristers.com.
March 25
Vino Visa Coupon Book Available Now
The Cayuga Lake Wine Trail is now offering the revised 2008 Vino Visa Coupon Book. The sixteen member wineries of the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail each have a coupon for specials and discounts throughout the year. Additionally, special deals on accommodations, attractions, restaurants and transportation services are offered. Each coupon is different, offering free tastings or items, or discounts on wine purchases, rooms, specialty sandwiches or guided tours.
To purchase your Vino Visa Coupon Book call 800-684-5217, order online at CayugaWineTrail.com or purchase at any of the wineries that are part of the trail. The coupon book is valid until the end of the year and makes a great gift.
March 25
Praise for a Finger Lakes Wine on National Television
NBC’s “Today Show” highlighted Dr. Frank’s 2006 Dry Rose as one of the best warm weather wines. Joshua Wesson, the owner of Best Cellars featured Dr. Frank’s Dry Rose as one of his favorite refreshing, young, fruity wines that will cool you off when the weather heats up.
March 25
Community Arts Partnership Re-launches the United Arts Fund
The Community Arts Partnership (CAP) is reinstating a program that puts local funds into the hands of Tompkins County’s artists and arts organizations. The United Arts Fund, dormant since 2004, re-launches this year with two competitive grant programs: One for small not-for-profit arts organizations and another for individual artists. The 2008 United Arts Fund (UAF) program will include two $1,000 awards for artists and three or four organizational grants of $1,500 or less.
“The UAF truly illustrates our mission at CAP not only to promote Ithaca’s arts, but also to provide practical support to those who produce the art. In addition to funding the artists and organizations, the United Arts Fund grants give us another chance to connect them to the larger arts community and foster the kind of collaboration that is crucial to everyone’s success,” said CAP’s new Executive Director, Brett Bossard.
Many of CAP’s other grant programs are made possible through funding from the New York State Council on the Arts. Unlike those grants, the United Arts Fund depends solely on the contributions that CAP solicits from local businesses and individuals each year. Bossard is hopeful that despite the UAF’s relatively modest beginnings this year, the program will eventually return as an important source of support for the community.
“We’re investigating a number of new ways to make sure the UAF continues to grow in the coming years,” he said. The United Arts Fund program began when CAP was formed in 1992 and continued through 2004. Since its inception, $235,000 has been distributed to arts organizations and artists.
Applications and guidelines for the 2008 United Arts Fund grants are available for download at ArtsPartner.org or in person at the Community Arts Partnership offices at the Clinton House in downtown Ithaca. For more information about the UAF or any of the Community Arts Partnership’s programs and services, contact Program Director Robin Schwartz at 607-273-5072 or by e-mail at programs@artspartner.org.
March 25
Belhurst Takes Silver at California Competition
Belhurst Winery won a silver medal at the 2008 Grand Harvest Awards, a competition produced by Vineyard and Winery Management. Belhurst Cayuga 2006 secured the award, the 50th medal Belhurst wines have received.
The Grand Harvest Awards competition judges wines based on terroir, or grape growing regions. Wines are judged with a greater sensitivity to the complexities and nuances of regions and to the influence of soil and weather characteristics on taste and quality. The competition took place in Santa Rosa, California with a compilation of judges including wine industry professionals, as well as media and marketers of wine.
Belhurst Cayuga 2006 is food-friendly and is one of Belhurst Winery’s best sellers. The Belhurst Cayuga shows a pale straw color with a very delicate bouquet. First on the palate is a showing of green apples, bananas and violets. The second taste is creamy and fresh and features nuances of delicate pineapple and pear along with a lingering finish of tantalizing apricot.
All Belhurst wines are available for tasting and purchase in the Belhurst Wine and Gift Shop on the shores of Seneca Lake in Geneva, and for purchase at Belhurst.com.
March 25
Johnson Museum Receives National Endowment for the Humanities Grant
Cornell University’s Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art was recently awarded a National Endowment for the Humanities grant of $366,292 in support of their upcoming traveling exhibition “A Room of Their Own: The Artists of Bloomsbury,” scheduled to open at the Johnson in 2009. The Johnson Museum was one of thirteen museums nationwide to receive this Public Programs/Museums Implementation grant during that funding cycle.
“A Room of Their Own” will be accompanied by a major catalog, a free visitors’ guide, multimedia components and extensions, a website version of the exhibition and catalog, and a full range of programming, culminating with a scholarly symposium at Cornell.
Although of another place and time, the Bloomsbury group confronted issues that are remarkably current: international crises, war, the value of craft in an industrialized world, women’s rights, environmental protection, and the search for the true, the good and the beautiful in their art and their lives. The exhibition, by examining the group’s responses to these issues, provides a valuable mirror on how people can address similar concerns today. A hundred years after the Bloomsbury group was established, their story still resonates and brings together a variety of interests across many artistic and intellectual pursuits. Museum audiences will come away with a better appreciation of this fertile period when fine artists collaborated closely with dancers, choreographers, musicians and writers to create startling new works and art forms.
March 25
Local Rieslings Take Gold in France
Five Finger Lakes wineries won gold medals at the January 28 Riesling du Monde international wine competition. More than 500 wines from 13 countries competed in the Riesling-only contest held in Strasbourg, France, close to the German border.
The winners are:
• Chateau Lafayette Reneau 2006 Dry Riesling
• Dr. Konstantin Frank 2006 Dry Riesling
• Fox Run Vineyards 2006 Reserve Riesling
• Glenora 2006 Dry Riesling
•
Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards Homestead Reserve Riesling
March 25
Sterling Nature Center Displays “Cayuga Naturally” Photo Contest Entries
1st-place picture by Tom Humiston of Hastings,
titled "Love is in the Air"
The Sterling Nature Center announced the winners of their 2007 “Cayuga Naturally” photograph contest. Twenty photographers captured their favorite flora, fauna and places for hiking, canoeing, fishing, hunting and wildlife watching in the 44 photographs submitted to the 2007 “Cayuga Naturally” photograph contest. The photographs depict the beauty of nature found in Cayuga County.
All the entries are now on exhibit at the Sterling Nature Center interpretive building. The judges selected one first-place, two second-place, three third-place winners and several honorable mentions. Tom Humiston from Hastings won first place. Judy Chillson of Martville and Richard Jordan of Auburn were awarded second place. Emily Fields of Red Creek, David Gulliver of Auburn and Megan Waldron from Union Springs won third place.
The contest will be held again in 2008. People interested in participating should start photographing their favorite natural places and wildlife. All photos must be taken within Cayuga County. For official entry form with complete rules and guidelines send a stamped self-addressed envelope to: SNC Photo, PO Box 216, Sterling NY, 13156, or download one at CayugaNet.org/SterlingPark.
The 1,400-acre Sterling Nature Center is located in northern Cayuga County on Jensvold Road just past the Renaissance Festival. The trail system is open from dawn to dusk every day of the year. For more information, go online or call 315-947-6143.
March 25
Finger Lakes Arts Trail Program Deadline Extended
Due to high levels of interest, the deadline to be listed on the Finger Lakes Arts Trail map and website has been extended from March 15 to April 4. Visit FingerLakesArtsTrail.org to learn more. Call Mary Beth Springmeier at 315-548-4940 or e-mail her at HistSoc@FLTG.net.
March 25
Meals On Wheels 50th Anniversary Celebration Kicks-off with Mayors For Meals 2008
Visiting Nurse Service of Rochester and Monroe County (VNS) and the American Red Cross (ARC), Greater Rochester Chapter, hosted mayors and town representatives at Mayors For Meals day on Wednesday, March 19 at 10:30 a.m.
Mayors and representatives from across Monroe County participated in this national event to show their support for the community’s senior citizens and to acknowledge the momentous service anniversary of Visiting Nurse Meals On Wheels. Joined by Monroe County Office for the Aging Director Corinda Crossdale, the event included a press conference, a reception to thank volunteers, a tour of the ARC kitchen and a distribution of meals to volunteers for delivery in their own towns.
“We’re very excited about having the interest and support of our local leaders, through which we hope to raise awareness of senior hunger in our community. Last year, nearly 900 mayors around the country participated in Mayors for Meals, making it a huge success,” said Phil Shippers, director, Visiting Nurse Meals On Wheels.
VNS established the Meals On Wheels program, the third oldest in the United States, in 1958 and has since served more than eight million meals throughout Monroe County. Mayors For Meals is one of several events planned throughout the year marking the program’s 50th anniversary.
March For Meals – of which Mayors For Meals is a component – is a national campaign designed to raise awareness of senior hunger and to encourage action on the part of the local community. Senior nutrition programs across the United States promote March For Meals in their local communities through public events, partnerships with local businesses, volunteer recruitment and fundraising initiatives. Mayors For Meals Day utilizes the involvement of local Mayors around the country.
Visiting Nurse Meals On Wheels was the first meal program in New York State. In collaboration with the American Red Cross, Greater Rochester Chapter, MOW ensures that nearly 1,900 individuals receive 330,000 meals per year, focusing mainly on the food and nutritional needs of the area’s frail elderly, homebound, critically ill and disabled.
Not just a meal delivery service, the program has evolved into a nutrition resource for the community, expanding its reach through innovative services and partnerships with organizations like AIDS Rochester. The program is ranked among the top 2 percent of programs in the United States and is accredited by the Meals On Wheels Association of America.
For more information, call Ann E. Duckett at 585-787-2233, ext. 8106 or e-mail her at aduckett@vnsnet.com.
March 25
Fox Run Recognized for Tasty, Affordable Wines
The April 2008 issue of Food & Wine magazine has chosen Fox Run Vineyard’s 2006 Dry Riesling as a “Best American Wine, $15 & Under.” The magazine describes the wine as complex, hailing from the “cool Finger Lakes where they produce very good aromatic whites, particularly Rieslings.”
The April 2008 issue of Wine Enthusiast also lists Fox Run as a “Best Buy” in the $10 range. The publication said of Fox Run’s non-vintage Chardonnay, “Luscious fruit and toast aromas are the beginning of this fun wine. On the palate, it offers good Chardonnay flavors and a round, supple mouthfeel.”
Fox Run is open year round. Learn more at FoxRunVineyards.com.
March 25
Seneca Lake Wineries Score High with Wine Spectator
• Wine Spectator, with an estimated worldwide readership of over 2 million readers, recently scored Rieslings from the Finger Lakes Region and among the top-rated wines were several members of the Seneca Lake Wine Trail. High-scoring wines include:
• Anthony Road Wine Company, Riesling Finger Lakes Semi-Dry 2006, Score: 89
• Atwater Estate Vineyards, Riesling Finger Lakes 2006, Score: 88
• Chateau LaFayette Reneau, Johannisberg Riesling Finger Lakes 2006, Score: 88
• Fox Run Vineyards, Riesling Seneca Lake Reserve 2006, Score: 88
• Red Newt Cellars, Riesling Finger Lakes Reserve 2006, Score: 88
•
White Springs Winery, Riesling Finger Lakes Red Label 2006, Score: 87
With over 12,000 wines to try each year, Wine Spectator relies on a team of editors, each with regional specializations. All wines are tasted blind in their category, so editors know the region or grape variety they are tasting, but not the producer or price. Wines are only unveiled after scores are noted. The tasting panel at Wine Spectator rate wines on the 100-point scale with the final score denoting the wine's overall quality. Many wines are re-tasted to confirm initial impressions.
February 28
Chill-A-Bration: So Cool, It’s Hot
Chill-A-Bration is Cortland’s first-ever celebration of snow, cold and our very own Upstate winter. Food, entertainment and fun snow activities from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Saturday, March 1 will make Downtown Cortland’s Court House Park the coolest place to be. Produced by Leadership Cortland, Cortland’s non-profit Downtown Partnership, the Cortland Regional Sports Council and the Cortland County Chamber of Commerce, Chill-A-Bration will include:
• A ski and snowboard terrain park in Court House Park courtesy of Greek Peak.
• A chili cook-off courtesy of the Cortland County Chamber of Commerce.
• Family snow games courtesy of the Cortland Regional Sports Council.
• A snow sculpting competition open to local businesses, organizations and groups courtesy of the Cultural Council of Cortland County.
• Winter sports products testing on trails courtesy of Lime Hollow Nature Center.
For more information, visit www.cortlandtourism.com or call Lloyd Purdy at 607-342-6460.
Keep an eye open for the sculptures created by students from SUNY Cortland’s Art and Art History Department. Starting February 28, Professor Vaughn Randall and his students will begin creating snow sculptures at historic Court House Park. The SUNY Cortland students will show their support of Chill-A-Bration by creating three snow sculptures. By participating in this event, the students will get involved in the community and gain experience doing large scale out-door work.
The student snow sculptors will include 50 junior and senior students, with the 10 best students acting as a carving team. In preparation for Chill-A-Bration, Professor Randall and carving team students will travel to SUNY Cortland’s Racquet Lake facility to practice and refine the process of packing snow into a form, called a “flask”, and shaping the form into an image. Local business and organizations are also welcome to compete in an amateur snow sculpting competition at Court House Park. Applications may be picked up at the office of Cortland’s Downtown Partnership.
Also keep an eye out for the Cortland Beer Company. They will introduce their new beer, Crown City Kolsch, expected to be in local bars and restaurants this spring. Local residents Terry Vestal and Dan Cleary created the Cortland Beer Company in October of 2007. The public will be invited to sample and share their opinion on the Crown City Kolsch brewed for Cortland Beer Company. Owners Dan and Terry as well as Brewer Chuck Williamson will be on hand to gather feedback from local residents.
The original idea was to put a full brewery or brewpub downtown. Due to a late 2007 hops shortage, however, they were unable to secure this essential ingredient without contracts already in place. As a solution this year, they are contract brewing with ButterNuts Beer and Ale. As the company and product line grow they plan on introducing a brewery in Cortland. Visit their website at www.cortlandbeer.com for more information.
February 28
The Cayuga Museum Seeks Entrants for Film Festival
The Theodore Case Film Festival seeks entries from Central New York film-makers. The Theodore Case Film Festival promotes the creative efforts of central New York filmmakers of all ages, celebrating the legacy of sound film pioneer Theodore Case. Festival organizers are actively seeking entries, spreading the word in middle schools, high schools, colleges and movie houses throughout Central New York.
This homegrown film festival, now in its fifth year, has become one of the highlights of the year for Central New York filmmakers. More than 50 entries were submitted to last year’s Festival, evenly distributed between teen and adult filmmakers.
The public screening of the 2008 Theodore Case Film Festival winners will be held at the Auburn Public Theater on Saturday, June 7. The theater is on Genesee Street in downtown Auburn, “The Birthplace of Talking Movies.”
Deadline for entries is April 28. Movies may be entered on either VHS tape or DVD, and must be 10 minutes or less in length. Entry forms may be picked up at the Cayuga Museum on Genesee Street or can be downloaded from the Events page at the Museum’s website, www.cayuganet.org/cayugamuseum. For more information, call Eileen McHugh at 315-253-8051.
February 28
Experience English Afternoon Tea in Naples
Dallywater’s Tea Room and Art Gallery is scheduled to open in Naples March 13.
“Since first coming to the beautiful Finger Lakes from Great Britain, it has been a dream of mine to open a Tea Room providing the same experience one would find in my native England.” says Janice Harwood, owner and hostess. Dallywater’s will provide an experience that echoes the simple elegance of an afternoon tea one could expect to enjoy in England: fruit scones with butter, clotted cream and jam accompanied by a freshly-brewed pot of tea.
Afternoon tea is the perfect way to relax and indulge oneself with a British tradition that dates to 1840 when in an effort to deal with a certain boredom shown by the Duchess of Bedford, her staff hit upon the idea of preparing an elegant tray of mid-afternoon tea with small baked sweets. This diversion was so enjoyed by the Duchess that she began to invite lady friends to share in her afternoon tea and they, in turn, began to do the same. By 1880, taking afternoon tea had become the refined thing to do and tea shops were a common sight. And remember, afternoon tea mustn’t be confused with high tea, which isn’t tea at all but is actually a full meal that, even today in England, generally refers to what most Americans think of as dinner.
Dallywater’s Tea Room and Art Gallery is located on Main Street. It will be open Thursday through Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., March through October. Reservations are not required but recommended for parties of six or more. Dallywater’s is also available for parties and special events. For more information, contact Janice by telephone at 585-374-2842 or by email at dallywaters1@mac.com.
February 28
Act Soon to Be Listed on the Arts Trail
The Finger Lakes Arts Trail Program is offering individual artists, arts festivals, arts and cultural businesses, retailers, wineries, restaurants and groups across the greater Finger Lakes to participate in their 2008 promotional program. Formerly managed by FLAGS in 2006 and 2007, the Finger Lakes Art Trail Program helps to promote arts and culture to year-round Finger Lakes residents and seasonal visitors. The 2008 trail map brochure will include all of Cayuga, Chemung, Livingston, Ontario, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, Wayne and Yates counties as well as parts of Monroe, Onondaga and Tompkins counties.
The Finger Lakes Art Trail Program consists of:
• A Trail Map designed as a rack brochure. Contact information and web site information is provided along with location and name of listing. The 50,000 copies for 2008 will be distributed to Thruway rest stops, brochure racks across the region, relocation packages, chambers of commerce, museums and so on. A map listing includes your business name, street address, phone, web address, e-mail and a one-line description (25 words).
• A website with a built-in page for each participating artist, gallery, theatre, festival and venue, with links to individual sites and other information. A web listing includes your business name, street address, phone, web address link, three images, logo and a one-page-long narrative.
Listing categories are: Artists/Studios, Museums/Galleries, Theatres (Opera Houses, Drive-ins, movies), Performing Arts, Festivals, Arts Business, Arts Organizations, Culinary Arts and Hospitality. To learn more about how to get listed on the Arts Trail, visit www.fingerlakesartstrail.org or call 315-548-4940. The deadline to participate is March 15.
February 28
2006 Dornfelder Vintage Released
Fulkerson Winery in Dundee announced the release of its 2006 Dornfelder wine, their largest Dornfelder bottling to-date in the nine years of production since 2000. The production of 191 cases for the 2006 Dornfelder vintage more than quadruples the bottling from the 2004 vintage. The current release is dry, yet heightened with lofty fruit flavors, zero percent residual sugar and was aged in toasted French Oak for six months. It is excellent with roasted chicken, lobster or sweet sausage. It’s a red wine for white food. To learn more, call 607-243-7883 or go online to www.fulkersonwinery.com.
February 28
Local Photographer Anticipates Book Release, Traveling Show
Kevin Rivoli, a photojournalist with the Associated Press, lives with his family in Auburn. The New York Times writer, Kathryn Shattuck, reported on December 26, 2007, that Rivoli has been preparing to release a book.
Shattuck notes that illustrators and photojournalists have enjoyed competitive tension since the advent of the camera in the 1920s and that Rockwell’s work has been dismissed by many critics as “trite and kitschy,” rejecting his Americana for the gritty realism of photojournalism. Rivoli and Rockwell’s descendants, however, are collaborating.
With his project, titled “In Search of Norman Rockwell’s America,” Rivoli wants to demonstrate that good photojournalism can happen in everyday settings. His photos reflect the experiences of down-home America, similar to Norman Rockwell, whose 321 illustrated covers appearing on The Saturday Evening Post over nearly five decades cemented his place in the American mind and continue to elicit strong emotions from many.
Rivoli’s book, published by Prestel, is expected to come out this fall. In addition, International Arts and Artists is helping to produce a traveling exhibit showing Rivoli and Rockwell works side-by-side.
February 28
2006 Cabernet Franc Released
Montezuma Winery has just released a 2006 Cabernet Franc to add to their current selection of over 30 wines. Cabernet Franc, known as a noble grape, has contributed to New York’s reputation for producing quality wines. This dry, medium-bodied red wine has been aged in oak for nine months, has wonderful berry tones and has nutty tannins on the finish. It goes well with red meats and pasta dishes. To contact Montezuma Winery, call 315-568-8190 or visit their website at www.montezumawinery.com.
February 28
Scholarship Open to Graduating Seniors
All graduating seniors from Watkins Glen, Bradford and Odessa-Montour Central Schools who will be attending college are encouraged to apply for the Schuyler County Chamber of Commerce Award. The scholarship will be presented to one senior in each district based on application and essay.
Applicants must submit a 500-word typed essay no later May 16 on the question: “If you had the ability to change your school in a positive way, what specific changes would you make and why?” Students can stop into their school’s guidance office or contact the Chamber at 607-535-4300 or chamber@schuylerny.com for more information or an application.
February 28
Hazlitt Wins Gold in Riesling Competition
The Riesling du Monde International Riesling Competition in Strasbourg, France announced that Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards won the gold medal in the Grand Cru category for its Homestead Reserve Riesling, 2006 vintage. The Riesling Du Monde is one of the premier international wine competitions focusing specifically on the Riesling varietal. Its 2008 competition featured 514 Riesling submissions representing 300 wineries from 13 countries. All submissions are tasted blindly under bailiff supervision. The 230 international jury members were composed of oenologists, wine producers, wine merchants, restaurateurs, certified wine tasters and wine journalists.
Limited to 600 cases, Hazlitt 1852 Vineyard’s Homestead Reserve Riesling is currently available in retail throughout New York State and can be purchased online on the Hazlitt website at www.hazlitt1852.com. To learn more, visit the website or call 607-546-WINE.
February 28
Call for Entries in Owego Strawberry Festival Logo Contest
The Owego Strawberry Festival Committee announced the theme of the 28th Annual Owego Strawberry Festival: “Strawberries & Stripes Forever!” The committee is sponsoring a logo contest and is accepting entries now. The winning logo will appear on tee-shirts and be used to advertise the festival, scheduled for Saturday, June 21.
All entries are due at the Tioga County Council on the Arts in Owego by 5 p.m. on Friday, April 11. To receive a copy of the contest rules, please send a self-addressed, stamped envelope to the Tioga County Council on the Arts along with your request or visit their website at www.tiogaartscouncil.org
February 11
Bristol Mountain Hosts Section V Nordic Championships
The Bristol Mountain Summit Nordic Center in Canandaigua hosts the 2008 Section V Junior Varsity and Varsity Nordic Championships on Monday, February 11, Tuesday, February 12, Wednesday, February 13 and Thursday, February 14.
The Sectional Distance Competition (Skate Style) is scheduled for 1 p.m. on Monday; Part 1 of the Junior Varsity and Modified Championships, for 5 p.m. on Tuesday; the Sectional Relay Competitions (Classic Style), for 1 p.m. on Wednesday; and Part 2 of the Junior Varsity and Modified Championships, 5 p.m. on Thursday.
Bristol Mountain Marketing Director, Troy Cusson said, “Bristol Mountain is honored to once again be hosting the Section V Nordic Championships. It’s an exciting event and we hope that the addition of the Summit Nordic Center will enhance the experience for the athletes and spectators.”
When asked about the new Bristol Mountain Summit Nordic Center, Anna Gorbold, Monroe County Chairman of High School Nordic Skiing and Pittsford Nordic Coach said, “This is the most exciting thing to happen to Nordic events in our region in years.”
Events are weather dependant and subject to change; interested parties should call prior to event to verify location and time.
For more information or for updated reports on conditions, snow-sports enthusiasts can check the Bristol Mountain website, www.bristolmountain.com or the snow phones at: 585-234-5000 and 585-374-1100.
February 11
New Business Opens in Trumansburg
Life’s So Sweet! Chocolates, a new locally-owned chocolate confection business opened for business in downtown Trumansburg on February 1. Owner Darlynne Overbaugh has planned several special events that chocolate enthusiasts might want to attend. The scheduled chocolate tastings are similar to wine tastings and involve paying a nominal fee to sample a selection of chocolate confections.
On Valentine’s Day, February 14, a “Tasting for Two,” is scheduled for 6-9:30 p.m. This event will feature chocolate confections that will make your heart (and taste buds) swoon. Reservations are required – call 607-387-4477.
Every Friday in 2008 is a “Fresh Fruit Friday.” Between 11 a.m. and 8 p.m. each week, visitors can enjoy a featured fresh fruit dipped in chocolate. February’s fruits include the Blueberry, Strawberry, Kumquat, and Pineapple.
The “Easter Egg Hunt Class,” on Saturday, March 1 from 10-11 a.m. will help attendees figure out the secrets of putting together a fun and exciting Easter egg hunt (adults only). Call to register.
Drop in for the “Luck of the Irish Tasting,” on March 15 during regular store hours. This St. Patrick’s Day-themed chocolate tasting will be full of green chocolate and Irish-inspired confections.
If chocolate tastings aren’t enough to satisfy the sweet tooth, the Chocolate of the Month Club is sure to satisfy. Each month (bi-monthly and quarterly memberships are also available), chocolates are made fresh and immediately shipped to club members. Besides receiving a half -pound, one pound or two pounds of chocolate in the mail, club members receive coupons toward future purchases, advance notice of sale promotions and invitations to special club member-only tastings.
For more information, call 607-387-4477, e-mail darlynne@lifessosweet.com or visit www.lifessosweet.com.
January 28
Don’t Miss “Walk the Walk”!
The Finger Lakes has been home to many prominent political and social reformers. The region’s ties to social justice and other progressive movements are strong and the ideals of reformers have long resonated with local residents. This history comes alive in “Walk the Walk: Encounters with Rochester’s African-American Ancestors.” This production is one of Rochester’s premier Black History Month events, bringing to life some of Rochester’s richest characters in an entertaining, engaging and educational theatrical production, as it has since 1996. The performance is a must-see for anyone who appreciates history, theater and the ribbons of experience that tie all humans together.
“‘Walk the Walk’ helps us put a human face on our history. You meet the people from the past, and get to know them as human beings – not just as famous icons from the history books,” explained Cindy Boyer, director of museums and education for the Landmark Society of Western New York.
“Walk the Walk” will be offered free to the public once only on February 8 at 7 p.m. at the Mt. Olivet Baptist Church in the Historic Corn Hill District, thanks to a generous sponsor. This setting is particularly noteworthy as Mt. Olivet Baptist was established in 1910 as the first African-American Baptist church in Rochester. The African-American Women’s service club, The Links, will provide a refreshment reception.
Additional performances of “Walk the Walk” for school children grades 3 and higher are scheduled for the mornings of February 7 and 8 at the Hochstein Music School. These performances include one-on-one chats and interaction between the student audience and the “Ancestors,” and help educators bring to life the difficult decisions faced by their historical predecessors. Teachers can download registration forms from The Landmark Society’s website, www.landmarksociety.org.
January 28
Calling All Charitable Gourmands
The 10th Annual Amateur Chef’s Night will be held on Thursday, February 7, 2008 at 6:15 pm in the Sacred Heart Parish Hall in Auburn.
Chef’s Night, which is sponsored by the Community Preservation Committee, has become one of the most popular Auburn wintertime events. Many local amateur chefs will be returning to display their culinary skills. Co-chairpersons Maxine Alberici and Mike Leone have also arranged for several new faces to be among the more than 60 enthusiastic cooks participating.
Emcee for the evening will be Carey Eidel from the Auburn Public Theater.
Entertainment will again feature a Silent Auction and wine tasting compliments of Dr. Konstantin Frank’s Vinifera Wine Cellars.
Tickets are available by calling Willard Chapel, 315-252-0339, which is the beneficiary of this event. Tickets are limited, so don’t delay to get yours soon if you want to attend this popular fundraiser.
January 28
Local Cider and Coffee Blend Featured at Sundance
The New York Lounge in Park City, Utah, provided hospitality to attendees of the Sundance and Slamdance Film Festivals. This year, products local to the Finger Lakes received some attention. Award-winning apple cider from Red Jacket Orchards in Geneva was served there, along with custom-blended “NY Loves Film” coffee from Java Joe’s in Rochester.
Hosted by the New York State Governor’s Office for Motion Picture and Television Development, the lounge was open every day during the festivals. It presented live Web casts of Variety and Hollywood.com interviews with leading filmmakers and actors, twice-daily panel discussions with indie-movie experts, and the “Cider House Sessions,” a diverse lineup of rising New York-based musical performers. |
