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July 2004 :: Issue 4
Meet the Editor
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"Sharing our community with you!" |
Site Traffic Doubled Again in June!
Thanks to everyone who is spreading the word and helping to support Rochester and the surrounding areas becoming a travel destination.
The Historic Voyage of The Fast Ferry!
As I promised...read, see and experience the first official voyage of the fast ferry through my eyes. It was a very special day for me, for Rochester and for a new international community. MORE>>
NEWS 10NBC - WHEC TV 10 Recognizes PORT OF ROCHESTER.com Community Promotion Effort!
PORT OF ROCHESTER.com made the news on Saturday, June 19, 2004. Jessica Wienstein, NEWS 10NBC reporter highlighted the continually increasing site traffic as an indication of the fast ferry's increasing popularity. Ms. Wienstein also reported on the sites business impact to two PORT OF ROCHESTER.com partners, B. Roberts Travel Services of Rochester and Excel Limousine. Becky Roberts, from B. Roberts Travel Services, was quoted as saying "we've sold over 200 ferry tickets in our first two weeks as the official travel agency of PORT OF ROCHESTER.com".
The news report video clip will be linked to this site when it is made available by News 10NBC. Click here to read the story!
Professional Travel Services with a Personal Touch!
PORT OF ROCHESTER.com offers professional travel services through our partner B. Roberts Travel Services of Rochester, Inc. Purchase ferry tickets and utilize the professional services of our travel staff to help make your trip relaxing and enjoyable.
The PORT OF ROCHESTER.com site is dedicated to support the success of the fast ferry, promote international tourism, and to support the growth of Rochester, Toronto and the surrounding area local economies.
You are all invited to become part of this international community exchange newsletter project. Share your experiences, promote your community or simply pass along this newsletter to someone you know who is interested in participating.
Thanks for your support!
ROCHESTER's OWN OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
. . .
A letter to new
friends...
by
Bruce Iuppa
Keuka Lake Vacation
A great summer is here! J. Get ready to save some web links.
Hey All…and happy July 2004. Let’s start off by introducing this picture. The location is Keuka Lake about 80 miles south of Rochester, NY and a very easy drive down I390. The wonderful woman in the Pocahontas bathing suit is my D’Arcy. The very handsome dog is Deacon…and they are both standing on the appropriately named “Deacon’s Dock”. D’Arcy is being her beautiful self and Deacon is fishing. Wonder if he needs a license?
Keuka Lake is one of New York's Finger Lakes.
Do your own research about the history of the Finger Lakes Region and how the lakes were carved by glaciers thought to be 2 miles thick. The evidence of those glaciers is all around you during your Finger Lakes Vacation. Keuka Lake is shaped like a capital “Y”. The endpoints of that “Y” starting from the bottom and moving clockwise are Hammondsport, Branchport and Penn Yan, NY. Each of these cities has its own history and again I’ll ask you to do your own research.
This is my family’s third year taking a Keuka Lake vacation…and you’re about to find out why.
Keuka Lake is 19 miles long with almost 50 miles of interesting shoreline for the jet skier, kayaker and other water enthusiasts. The water is most often crystal clear allowing you to see down as far as 40 feet. Keuka Lake does have Zebra Mussels and even though there are negatives to Zebra Mussels, the clarity of the water is a definite positive. The water temperature in mid June was a brisk but still tolerable 62 degrees. In July and August the water temps will head into the high 70’s and low 80’s. As one sign says in Penn Yan, “Our lake heaters are on”.
Keuka Lake Activities
Jet skiing…
50 Miles of shoreline, some beautiful homes and usually very calm water makes for hours and hours of jet skiing enjoyment. Keuka does have a 45 MPH speed limit and during the weekends the sheriffs patrols are plentiful. Both of the skis pictured can break that speed limit…and often did J. There is a boat launch in Hammondsport and at the various marinas around the lake. There is also a state park in Branchport with boat ramps. The rental house we take each year has a gradually sloping shale beach. I launch my skis directly from the property. Waterskiing, wakeboarding, knee boarding and tubing are definitely doable behind the jet skis. Give it a try…but you must have a 3 seat ski and a 2nd person on the watercraft, other than the driver watching the skier. In our “lake speak”…you need a "shotgun". Voice of experience…its $80 if you don’t!
Kayaking
Junior Kayakers can never start too young. This is my grandson Bryan on this very same Keuka Lake Vacation. Dad’s…and Grand Dads… its all about making the memories isn’t it? Bryan is 11 months old in this picture, and in a few years I expect him to be tearing up the reasonable whitewater with his grandfather. Kayaking on Keuka Lake is safe and sane. The water is calm, but the weather does change dramatically and very quickly. Keep an eye out. Additionally…if you’re lucky enough to be in the area when it is open, the Keuka Outlet runs between Keuka and Canandaigua Lake.
Keuka Outlet is a Class 1 – Class 3 Whitewater run (I think 9 miles in length).
CLICK HERE FOR ROCHESTER'S OWN
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
UPCOMING EVENTS
In This Issue...
My Rochester
My Toronto
Rochester's Own Outdoor Adventures
The Magic of Park Avenue
Toronto On Tuition
Wild On Rochester
Karen's Pic
MY ROCHESTER
"The Girl's of Eastridge"
Class of 2004
"Hello Canada!"
You and the Port
by Stacy Colombo
Photo's by Lou Iuppa
Well, you made it. After the two hour ride on The Breeze, you finally reached your destination. Stretch your legs and gather your family and your luggage (if you have any) because it’s time to embark on a tour into the attractions and the wonders of the Port of Rochester at Charlotte Beach. Coming from a big city such as Toronto, you may be asking yourself, what does Charlotte Beach and its surrounding area have to offer me and my family? The City of Rochester is a small city with the heart of a large, metropolitan city; Rochester and the Port of Rochester has a lot of attractions that would be conducive to a family and to a nice vacation.
My Rochester Favorites!
by
Tom Kredo
About twenty-five years ago, I came to Rochester
for a job and have never looked back. For those who think that there is
nothing to do in Rochester, I've put together my personal list of places
that I would recommend to new visitors.
The first area you see when you get off of the ferry is Charlotte Beach.
This area has been undergoing renovation over the past five years. There
is a new bridge under construction over the Genesee, roadways have been
repaired, walkways added, and a new ferry terminal and dock have been
added. The pier to the lighthouse has been fixed and is a joy to walk on
a warm summer evening. In the middle of summer, the area is crowded with
beach volleyball, picnicking, boating, and swimmers.
Palmyra on the Erie
by Vicky Daly, Mayor
Welcome to Palmyra, Queen of Canal Towns! If you have not yet been to our lovely village, July is the time to make your first visit. Located in the southwestern corner of Wayne County, just 28 miles from Rochester, Palmyra is easily accessible via NYS Routes 31 and 21 and from I 90, the NYS Thruway, exit 43. If you come by boat, you can dock at the Port of Palmyra, our Erie Canal marina. No matter how you arrive, you will discover quite quickly that our museums, shops and eateries are all within easy walking distance. Unmetered public parking is available.
THE MAGIC OF PARK AVENUE
by Jim Catalano
In my last column I had the pleasure of telling you about the wonderful allure of Rochester’s Park Avenue neighborhood. Allow me to share a bit about the annual event - hosted on Park Ave - that brought us here to live!
My partner and I had been house hunting steadily
for a year and a half. In the summer of 1993 we chose to spend an August
Sunday attending one of Rochester’s favorite summer festivals, The Park
Ave Summer Art Festival. We both had been to a Park Avenue festival
before, although not in each others company, and knew what to expect,
booth after booth filled with art treasures, food to satisfy any palate,
and wonderful street side musical performances by some of the abundant
talent that can be found here in Rochester.
There was something more here on this particular August summer day. There was energy, an energy that you don’t find many places, as we walked the mile and something stretch that houses the festival, we watched the residents on their porches, their front yards, and even perched on the roofs of front porches, taking in the steady flow of
Gift
Ferry’s, LLC. announces their grand opening the weekend of June 11th,
12th and 13th! Gift Ferry’s, LLC. is a one of a kind novelty and gift
shop conveniently located across from the new fast ferry terminal at
4775 Lake Avenue (in Nola’s Restaurant foyer). They will be open most
afternoons with extended evening hours coinciding with Ontario
Beach/Charlotte/The Breeze events.
The three artists who started Gift Ferry’s (Linda Birtel, Jane Brennan
and Karen Ackerman), have created a venue for their own works as well as
featuring area Artisans on a monthly basis. With the Greater Rochester
area now under the world’s microscope because of the arrival of our new
fast ferry known as The Breeze, the Gift Ferry’s shop is a unique and
fresh addition to the revitalization of the Port of Rochester/Charlotte
business district.
Linda, Jane and Karen would like to welcome everyone to come out to
their location, shop around, take a stroll on the boardwalk, admire the
fast ferry and join in the excitement that is now happening in
Charlotte!
A diamond-in-the-rough
by Mary Kay Williams
My name is Mary Kay Williams. I had
the pleasure of drawing quick sketches on the fast ferry for its Premier
Passage. What a great party! Not only was I able to be a part of a
historic first exchange between Rochester and Toronto, I was able to
meet some really wonderful people—and draw their
pictures!
I am very excited about the ferry
and all that it entails. An opinion among
some Rochesterians is that we will benefit far more from our travels to
Toronto than vice-versa. In speaking to other Rochesterians, I noticed
another point of view. It starts with why we choose to live here,
whether we are natives or transplants to the area. I will quote my
friend Rich, a
transplant from Michigan: “I decided to move to Rochester because I
wanted to have a city big enough so that I would have plenty of
opportunities to pursue my interests, yet a small enough town so that I
could build a strong
community bond.” Rochester is both: a small town inside a big city.
There is so much to do and explore in Rochester, whether it is art,
music dancing, festivals, bowling…you name it.
My prediction is that Canadians will DISCOVER Rochester for the gem that
it is—a diamond-in-the-rough, ready to be explored and cherished. They
will find in us a community to come back to again and again.
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MY TORONTO
Hey Toronto! Promote tourism to your area. Submit an article to PORT OF ROCHESTER.com and it goes right here! Tell everyone about your special community, your events, your restaurants, your nightlife, your attractions. Share your community and promote tourism to your area!
A Letter from Canada
Hello Lou,
I was working a bit late at the office and just received your e-mail
broadcast.
I am replying with a quick note to wish you all the best in your
outreach project on behalf of the Port of Rochester. In the world of
internet, new friendships and possibilities are formed that have
wonderful potential. We have never met, and would otherwise never even
had reason to exchange thoughts. Yet in this new world of ours, that’s a
mere technicality, because here is your e-mail out of the blue!
I wish you all the best in finding new professional and personal
relationships that will benefit the Port of Rochester and the community
it serves. It is quite possible after all that the new marine link
between Rochester and Toronto will revive the prospects for mutually
beneficial cultural and economic ties!
I may have been just one more Canadian that you didn’t know before, but
now I suppose that I’m one more possible new friend of Rochester.
I guess that’s what you’re trying to accomplish. So congratulations on
your initiative on behalf of your city and good luck!
Sincerely,
Eric Lehner
Chairman & CEO
Winning Brands Group
Thanks for your support Eric! One new Canadian friend at a time...it's all part of the international community exchange project. - Lou
TORONTO ON TUITION
by Jonathan Schott
“Honestly,” I have the
best attraction for those on a short budget visiting Toronto!
Honest Ed’s, located at 581 Bloor Street West and Bathurst Street in Toronto’s West Side is an enormous discount/bargain warehouse that offers you great deals on anything you could possible imagine. Ed’s was founded by Ed Mirvish, of the Mirvish family that is responsible for much of Toronto’s theatrical successes. Ed was a simple man, who knew that a city with such a multi-national population would have families who were just getting on their feet. He started Honest Ed’s 55 years ago to provide the people of Toronto with quality deals at low, and I do mean LOW, prices. Ed loved the people of Toronto so much he started a tradition of giving away free Thanksgiving turkeys, which carries on to this day.
Honest Ed’s store is one full city block. The first thing you notice about Honest Ed’s is the marquis, which reminds you of the old light bulb signs and billboards in Las Vegas. It has over 6 floors, many departments, nooks and crannies, and even a collection of treasures and antiques. Ed’s has a pharmacy, hardware store, kitchen store, and a grocery. My experience with Honest Ed’s has been nothing fun and excitement. The store has no traditional set-up like you think with other discount stores. Ed’s is A-MAZE-ING. Half the fun of spending an afternoon at Honest Ed’s is navigating the store itself. Fun-House style mirrors can be found in some stairwells, theatre posters adorn the walls, and autographed pictures of the celebrities who have visited are hanging everywhere.
Toronto on Tuition Tip #6721: Honest Ed’s is one of the BEST and (I think) the most inexpensive place to buy your Toronto souvenirs. These aren’t hard to find, the thoughtful staff at Ed’s has located the souvenir section conveniently right inside the front door! You can get to Honest Ed’s via the Toronto Transit Commission, either on the Bathurst Streetcar that runs North/South on Bathurst Street or you can take the Bloor-Danforth Subway line westbound to Bathurst Station.
If you’re going to be in Toronto, you honestly need to visit Honest Ed’s. I guarantee that anyone on a short budget, such as all us students, will find the prices very reasonable. Plus, the Bathurst/Bloor intersection is a visit in itself, with low-priced eateries, many shops, and cultural experiences located right nearby; unsurprisingly, this area has been nicknamed “Mirvish Village.” I suggest setting out on foot to gather it all in. Your hard-earned cash will last longer here than in many other places in Toronto.
If you don’t believe me, believe Ed’s motto: “How Cheap Can A Guy Get? Come In And Find Out!” Visit Honest Ed’s. Its worth it!
WILD ON ROCHESTER
by
Jodi Rowland
The Ring of Fire
One of my family’s favorite times of the year has always been the fourth of July. The picnics, parties, and fireworks provide for some great family times and memories, including the one time that I watched fireworks with my uncle on the roof of his house! I grew up in a small town, Livonia, NY, which is located about thirty minutes south of Rochester. Every third of July, Conesus Lake, where my town is located, has an awesome fireworks show called The Ring of Fire. Each house around the lake lights flares at dusk to start the ring. Then, two to three barges loaded with fireworks, along with various household fireworks, commences with the show. Some of the best spots to see the show are at public parks, like Vitale Park on Rt. 20A. For a thirty-minute drive down 390 South, this makes for an ideal day-trip full of fun.
If you’re looking to stay in the city or just want to glimpse a view of some more dazzling lights, there are plenty of other opportunities to see some fireworks this fourth. You can check out Penfield, Brighton, or even downtown Rochester—all offer a good show.
Looking for some excitement after the show or even later this month? Check out Mythos Grill on 175 North Water St. for authentic Mediterranean food. It’s tasty!
I hope you have a safe and fun fourth, or third, of July. I’m sure that we’ll share some illuminating moments under the same sky.
Karen's Pic
by
K. Iuppa
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Deals! |
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Balloon Rides
Letchworth Park, NY
$195/pp
Champagne Breakfast Included
Call Lance @ 1-800-777-2FLY
Please Visit Our Partners
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Canadian American Transportation System (CATS)
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BLUE JAYS / PRODUCERS!
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ROCHESTER'S OWN OUTDOOR ADVENTURES - Continued
There is one completely unrunnable water fall and then the falls in the picture. The Outlet is very well marked and very safe and sane. Each year groups of people trim the trees and clear the river path to remove dangerous “strainers”. It is not necessary to run the waterfall pictured. Everybody with the least bit of paddling experience and a desire to try some white water should give this a shot. You’re in the Keuka Area anyway…bring your kayaks…we did.
Keuka Lake Wine Trail
Now
my mother is interested. That’s Great Grandma with Great Grandson Bryan
standing in front of the Keuka Cottage. Grandma (my mother MaryLou)
put Bryan down often as we headed out on the
Keuka Wine Trail. This
area has a wine history and the Finger Lakes in General are the top
producing wine region in New York.
This Wine Tasting is a 3 year tradition and one that will continue for many more. I’ll mention the wineries we visited this year as we stocked the wine rack for the coming year.
Bully Hill Winery…This is the family favorite. Why? These guys are funny, and the fermented grape juice tastes good. Bully Hill enters no competitions, they only swirl their glasses for fun and “legs” are only for walking. Wine is for drinking and they have plenty of it. Bully Hill also has a wonderful restaurant overlooking the lake. The food is high end at reasonable prices and is delicious. If the weather is cooperating sit out on the deck. You’ll remember Bully Hill.
Ravines Winery…Ravines is a new winery in the area. The couple that run this are young and friendly. This winery makes dry wines only. Ravines also had the most interesting bottle (their house wine). I’m not normally a dry wine kind of guy but their Chardonnay was very “oaky” and very good.
McGregor Winery…McGregor’s had an excellent tasting experience. The young man running the tasting was friendly, professional and knowledgeable. We purchased a Riesling, Gewürztraminer and Harvest Vignole from this winery. The wineries in the area all have a $1 tasting fee for some quantity of wines. McGregor waves this fee if you purchase, and we did. The entire experience was made even more enjoyable as it was shared with the winery’s cat.
Pleasant Valley Winery…Each of the wineries above has something special to offer. Pleasant Valley’s contribution is history. For a small fee you may tour the historically registered buildings and learn something about the early days of wine making. This winery is Bonded Winery #1, how’s that for history. You’ll also learn an interesting fact about how our government spent many thousands of dollars to receive less tax on wine sold. Now that’s government in action. The buildings are impressive. The history is very interesting. In my opinion the wines are lower priced than others in the area. We purchased a number of the Sherries and the fruit flavored wines (blackberry was sooo good). These bottles didn’t make it back to Rochester J.
Finally Family
We’re in the business of making memories with our families…or at least we should be.
In this months Rochester’s Own Outdoor Adventures, I’ve shared lots of pictures. This is my daughter and her friends -- starting on the left Meg, “The Kate” and my daughter Danielle is farthest right. Keuka Lake is close enough to Rochester that your family and friends can come and go as they please, and as their schedules allow. As your children get older it’s these memories they take with them... make them good.
Many things accomplished in this July Newsletter. Hopefully I’ve stimulated your interest in visiting a jewel of a lake only 80 miles from the Port of Rochester. I’ve introduced you to family, friends and a great dog. You can never forget Deacon.
My suggestion…
Bring your family, bring your car, bring your toys, don’t leave the dog at home, he needs a vacation too! Make some memories…and explore Keuka Lake.
Next time…Lake Erie, The Niagara River, Buffalo’s waterfront and Niagara Falls, all this from a jet ski perspective.
Happy Rochester Outdoor Adventures!
Rochester’s Own Outdoor Adventures - Upcoming Events
Summer 2004
To Participate Send E-mail to: Bruce Iuppa
You don’t have to limit yourself to reading about these activities. You can join us! These are the scheduled events. Consider yourself invited. To participate in any of these events listed currently or to be listed, send me an email.
Jet Skiing:
Every Thursday Evening Summer 2004 Jet Skiing
Click Here to Check the Calendar of Events
Every Thursday Evening during the summer months, we launch our jet skis out of Braddock Bay (Breakers Marina). Send me an email, I’ll send you back information and you can join us.
You and The Port - continued
Although The Breeze offers the luxury of transporting a vehicle on one of its decks, you may not choose to take advantage of that accessory. Even though you’ve made the decision to explore the area without a vehicle, you can still explore the Port of Rochester at Charlotte Beach to its fullest. There are many attractions that are within walking distance of the port, including restaurants, ice cream shops, tours, and of course Charlotte Beach.
Nola's BBQ
There are many restaurants located around the Port of Rochester with ranging menus that could please a wide variety of taste buds. A new arrival to the Charlotte area is Nola’s Waterfront Bar-B-Que; if you are in the mood for bar-b-que pork, chicken, and ribs, then Nola’s Waterfront Bar-B-Que is a great choice.
Bellanca's Bootlegger
Mr. Dominic's
CavaCori's
If Italian Cuisine is your choice for your visit to Rochester, the Port of Rochester has a great selection of restaurants that would be worth a visit. At Bellanca’s Bootlegger, CavaCori’s, and Mr. Dominic’s at the Lake, you will feast on home cooked Italian Cuisine, which is infamous among Charlotte and Rochester residents.
Leadbelly Landing
Windjammers
Pelican's Nest
If Italian food and/or bar-b-que food is not what you are craving, the Port of Rochester also has a great selection of bar and grilles. Leadbelly Landing, Windjammers, Pelican’s Nest, and Scuttlebutts Restaurant offer great food and drinks at an affordable price—great for the family. Also, Pelican’s Nest and Windjammers offer live musical entertainment.
Harborside Café
LDR's Char Pit
Another type of food that the Port of Rochester offers is steak; Harborside Café is an excellent steakhouse that will satisfy anyone’s craving for a great steak. Lastly, if all you want to do is have a quick bite to eat that is not considered a fast food place, such as McDonald’s or Burger King, yet still tastes good, then LDR’s Char Pit should be your first choice. The Char Pit is infamous in Charlotte for tasty hamburgers, hot dogs, and french fries. LDR’s is a nice place that is suitable for a family.
Abbott's
Pat's Coffee Shop
Well, now that you have found a restaurant that you would like to try, the next step that you should take is deciding on dessert. You could always eat dessert at the restaurant of your choice, but there are other options at the Port of Rochester that would also be worth your time and money. The most infamous ice cream stand in the Rochester area, Abbott’s Custard, originated at the Port of Rochester; it is now a chain ice cream stand all over the city. The custard’s delicious flavor and thick texture keeps its customers coming back for more. Another option for dessert in the Charlotte area is Pat’s Coffee Shop. Located directly in the heart of Ontario Beach Park, Pat’s Coffee Shop offers fantastic dessert that anyone could enjoy.
Now that your dinner and dessert is covered, another thing you may want to consider is what you and your family would want to do the rest of your vacation at the Port of Rochester. Like any other city that is a tourist attraction, the Port of Rochester has a variety of different activities and tours available to its guests and residents. If you are not sick of traveling on Lake Ontario by the time you arrive in the Port of Rochester, then you may want to consider taking a tour of the harbor on the Spirit of Rochester or experience paddle boating on The Harbor Town Belle—an authentic paddle wheeler that offers cruises, lunches, and dinners.
Another activity that you could do with you family is take a ride on the Carousel; since the early 1900’s, the Carousel has been a source of entertainment for people of all ages. For only a dollar per person, you can ride the colorful characters on the vintage ride.
To add a little bit of history into your vacation a trip to the lighthouse on the campus of Holy Cross Church would be a good stop. The historic lighthouse offers tours to the public that exposes the architecture of the building, the history of the lighthouse, and the view of the Port of Rochester.
Ontario Beach Park
For something to do that won’t cost you any of your money one option for you to consider could be to take a walk on the pier or relax and suntan on the sandy beach of Charlotte.
Now that you know about all of the attractions and sights within walking distance of the Port of Rochester, it is up to you to plan your day that is conducive to you and your family. No matter what you decide to do or see in the Charlotte area, you will not be disappointed. Rochester may be a small city, but it has huge potential.
THE MAGIC OF PARK AVENUE - continued
foot traffic as festival goers hunted and pecked through the artists booths and their displays. We found people stopping in the street to greet a long lost friend or to introduce a spouse or significant other to a “buddy from work”. It was at that moment I turned to my partner and said “I would like us to focus our home search in this neighborhood”. The decision was thankfully unanimous, and after another year of hunting we found our dream home directly on the avenue.
The Park Avenue
Summer Art Festival is now an
event we anxiously look forward to each year. This year the festival
celebrates it’s 28th anniversary, on August 7th
and 8th with approximately 275 artists, an array of food
vendors, who along with the restaurants and café’s that reside on the
avenue offer an “endless buffet” of edible delights, and cool beverages.
The interesting variety of shops and boutiques on Park Avenue also open
their doors and welcome you to browse their shops and enjoy festival
“specials” that their customers wait all year long for. The music too,
still emanates from different corners and stages during the run of the
festival, and yes people still come to socialize, or perhaps “bump into
that long lost friend”.
Getting to the festival is easy especially from the Port of Rochester, and parking is provided in two giant lots that are at the boundaries of the event. Free shuttle buses will comfortably transport you to where that action all begins and you will find walking the length of the festival painless, especially if you are a genuine shopper or people watcher.
Park Avenue also hosts two charming Bed and
Breakfasts, The Dartmouth House and
Edward Harris House Bed and
Breakfast. Both are stunning, and very comfortable homes that will
make you feel like family while you enjoy your stay, and both are
walking distance (actually minutes) from the heart of the festival.
There is another hotel within walking distance to Park Avenue, and the
festival attraction. Join us this year for a weekend of fun and
entertainment, and look for my partner and me as we host our 10th
annual open house for family and friends in our front yard, offering the
type of energy that brought us to this glorious neighborhood
.
For more information on the lodging mentioned be sure to visit Park Avenue Merchant Association’s website or contact Churchill Roberts at 1-800-444-6540 x13 to utilize the professional travel planning services of B. Roberts Travel to plan your trip. For more information about the Park Avenue Summer Art festival visit RochesterEvents.com and of course if you have any questions, I got the dirt! You can e-mail me at jimmy@portofrochester.com.
Talk to you next month!
Palmyra on the Erie - Continued
We are a compact nineteenth century village boasting the Erie Canal, the sites which mark the founding of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints ( Mormon), and four world class museums which preserve and present our unique heritage. You’ll read more about them next month.
Why come in July? Because it is now and good things are happening in Palmyra. On July 9 – 10, 13 – 17, the world famous Hill Cumorah Pageant will be staged at Hill Cumorah on Route 21 just south of the village. Magnificent theatrical effects and music recorded by the renowned Mormon Tabernacle Choir create an evening you will not soon forget. Admission and parking are free. Food is available until the 9:00 p.m. start. For additional information check out www.hillcumorah.com. For information on other LDS sites in and around Palmyra, go to www.placestovisit.lds.org.
On Saturday July 10 at 10:00 a.m. a one-of-a-kind bridge will be dedicated at Aqueduct Park, Route 31, just west of the Village of Palmyra. The Aldrich Change Bridge, the equivalent of a nineteenth century traffic cloverleaf, will be the focus of attention. The bridge, designed by Squire Whipple, a prominent bridge designer, answered the question ‘How do we get the mule towing the canal barge to the other side of the canal when the tow path changes sides?’ We’ll show you on the 10th.
Come celebrate the restoration of the bridge and enjoy an old fashioned community picnic in the park. Hots, hamburgers, and ice cream will be available. Strolling musicians will entertain and modern day bridge builders will answer questions. Admission and parking are free.
For more information about Palmyra – our accommodations, restaurants, shops and attractions, consult www.palmyrany.com.
See you in August for highlights of our museums and the Great Wayne County Fair.
Village of Palmyra
Summer Events Highlights
by Irene Unterborn
May thru October Palmyra Farmers Market Enjoy fresh produce, meats,
cheese, eggs, flowers and more… each Saturday morning, 8 am until noon
in the Village Park.
July 10 Aldrich Change Bridge Dedication Be part of history in the
making! Saturday morning, 10:00 am at Aqueduct Park on Rt 31.
July 9,10,13-17 Hill Cumorah Pageant – Free admission, free parking,
starts at 9:00pm. Highway 21, 2 miles north of Interstate 90.
Presented by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
July 23 FREE!! Movie in the Park
Peter Pan (2003)
Let the Fight Begin…. The Darling family children receive a visit from Peter Pan, who takes them to Never Never Land where an ongoing war with the evil Pirate Captain Hook is taking place.
When: Friday July 23, music at 8:30pm, movie at dusk
Where: Palmyra Village Park on Main St.
The movie is provided free of charge, courtesy of Candy Corner Fudge
Square, Kavanagh Books, the Phoenix Café, and the Village of Palmyra
Economic Support Group. Some seating will be available, but moviegoers
are encouraged to bring their own blankets and lawn chairs. Children
ages 13 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
Refreshments and popcorn will be available for
purchase in the Park by the Pal-Mac Lions Club and Candy Corner Fudge
Square.
August Music in the Park Every Wednesday Evening in August beginning at
6:30-8:00pm in the Palmyra Village Park. Families can enjoy live music
ranging from the RPO to acoustic folk and rock. A great place to enjoy a
picnic and relax, or play on the playground!
August 9-14 Wayne County Fair Come and enjoy the oldest fair in New York
State… check the www.palmyrany.com website for details.
September 10 FREE Movie in the Park To be announced
October 2 Palmyra’s Annual Garage Sale in the Village Park Details to be
announced….remember that your throw-aways can be another persons
treasures!!
For further information please call the Village Hall at 585-597-4849.
The
Historic Voyage of The Fast Ferry!
by Lou Iuppa
Have you ever stopped, listened, looked around and truly experienced your life during a historical moment? I did, while standing on the deck of "The Spirit of Ontario" as it navigated slowly out from the Port of Rochester towards Toronto during it's first official crossing June 17th, 2004. At that moment, I was not only taken by what I saw, but I experienced the meaning of the moment. For me, that was the moment when Lake Ontario became a bit smaller, Rochester, New York became a tourism gateway, and an international community was provided a new attraction to promote economic development through tourism.
Why The Premiere Passage?
The Premiere Passage was a black tie event sponsored by the Rochester and Toronto Rotaries. Tickets for the event were $500/person and the proceeds raised money for charity, including the Sunshine Campus, a facility for city youths and people with disabilities. I need to level with you. This is the first time that I've spent $500 to attend a charity event - let alone $500/person. Beyond being a good charity, I was making an investment in Rochester and I wanted to show my support for the Port of Rochester development and the success of the fast ferry. I was also there to make contact with business and community leaders who were demonstrating their support through their participation. It hoped to make a connection with anyone that was interested in learning about PORT OF ROCHESTER.com and jumping aboard to promote our site goals throughout Rochester, Toronto and the surrounding areas.
Who Went?
Representing
PORT OF ROCHESTER.com were, Becky
Roberts, Sal and Cheryl Pitti and Lou and Donna Iuppa. Becky
Roberts is the owner of
B. Roberts Travel
Services of Rochester, the official travel agency for
PORT OF ROCHESTER.com. Becky actually seemed to know most
everyone at the event
and those she didn't know, she knew by the end of the night!
If you ever meet Becky, you'll quickly realize that she has
the energy of 5 people. That night, I learned she has no
fear in any public setting. Becky gets the MVP award for the
night. She was interviewed by local papers and TV news
stations and she helped to increase the awareness of PORT OF
ROCHESTER.com's personalized travel services.
Sal Pitti is Sr. VP at Morgan Stanley
in Penfield, New York. Sal is my long time personal
financial advisor
and, as an aside, I would highly recommend his services. One
day while Sal was presenting stock advice, I told him what
I
was doing with PORT OF ROCHESTER.com. Sal immediately
realized the potential benefits promoting tourism. He got
the bug and has been a supporter ever since, helping to grow
awareness for our advertising services. Donna and Cheryl --
our wives -- were at the event because...well...Cheryl
said it best - "We're the eye candy"! It's
true that Donna, Cheryl and
Becky were quite sweet to the eye that night...someone
even offered to buy Donna's dress! However, I don't want to
give you the impression
that they were just a bunch
of pretty faces. They
are each successful business woman with the gift of gab and
there is no way that Sal or I would go to an event like this
without them! They helped us look and sound interesting! So
what's my story? I'm the son of MaryLou and Joseph Bruce
Iuppa, M.D. My father and grandfather (Louis A. Iuppa) were
doctors (OB/GYN) serving Rochester and the surrounding
areas. They delivered thousands of Rochesterians and if you
know the Iuppa name, this is the likely association. Though
I have very strong family ties to Rochester, I now live in
Wake Forest, NC (That's a longer story) and my day job is VP
of Business Development for a Massachusetts based software
company (XyEnterprise,
Inc.). The PORT OF ROCHESTER.com site represents a new
venture launched in March, 2004 to promote tourism, economic
development and ferry ridership. I'm pleased to report that
site traffic continues to increase and, in the month of June
alone, we had over 300,000 hits to the web site,
40,000 page views and 13,000 unique visitors. The
site services will grow through partnerships with
established tourism organizations that have an interest in
promoting Rochester/Toronto tourism. If you represent an
established tourism organization, I could use the help!
Please contact me!
Arriving in Style
Our
day started when Jay Menaldino from
Excel Limousine
arrived. I've known Jay for a while and Excel Limousine
service goes way beyond luxurious transportation. Jay
becomes your personal concierge for the day,
making sure everything goes as you've
planned. I can't thank Jay enough for his services that
day -- he was wonderful and I highly recommend the
services of Excel Limousine to all of you. As a matter of
fact -- tell Jay you saw this article at PORT OF
ROCHESTER.com and mention that you'd like his VIP program.
You'll be pleased with Excel's service and your savings. Jay
prepared us with Champaign
and New York State Wine from the Finger Lakes region. We
were quite "happy" by the time we arrived at the Port of
Rochester.
At the Port, we received the red carpet treatment. For a moment, I believe we experienced what its like to be a celebrity. People were waving and taking photos. We were all looking around to see who they were all looking at! It was us! It was a strange but exciting experience.
Once in the terminal facilities, we needed to check-in, get our tickets and pass through customs. The whole process took some time, but it gave us an opportunity to start talking with the people around us.
New Friends
When
we arrived in the terminal, Marilyn Lopez stood out. She
looked so patriotic with
an American flag accenting her black hat. I just had to talk
with her! She was with her friend Richard Van Cuyck, her son
and his wife Christopher and Holly Lopez. Marilyn shared how
she and Richard had been on the maiden voyage of the Queen
Mary 2 and the premiere passage on The Breeze was
just as exciting! I ask why she fealt such a need to be on
the premiere passage and she said, "My family has a long
history in Rochester. My grandparents moved here in the
early 1900's. There are so many wonderful places to live and
so many positive things here for families to do. We just had
to experience The Breeze and help to promote the
success of this new Rochester attraction."
While talking with Christopher Lopez, Principal Architect at Plan Architectural Studio in Rochester, I learned he was involved in planning space for the new retail stores in the Port of Rochester terminal. It was great talking with someone who is actually helping to shape the experience that people have in the Port of Rochester ferry terminal.
Richard Van Cuyck, President and CEO of RFVC Associates, is an avid curling buff. He's a member of the Rochester Curling Club and the club is happy to show you how fun it really is! It turns out there are many Canadian curlers. There is an entire association of Ontario curlers and they have traveling tournaments in the fall and winter months. Hopefully all you Ontario curlers reading this will come visit Rochester!
After
making it through the metal detectors we boarded The
Spirit of Ontario and were immediately greeted by
Don Alhart
and his wife. I have to give them both A LOT of credit.
They greeted and shook the hands of every single person
boarding the ship!
While
in
the terminal there was a couple wearing Elmo and Big Bird
life preservers. All week, people were bringing up the
Titanic or humming the theme from Gilligan's Island, so it
was appropriate that someone brought their own life saving
devices just in case! I new I would need to meet them! We
finally connected, Elmo (Lauren Burns, Director at
Bonadio Payroll Services)
and Big Bird (James Gramkee, VP and CFO of
Mark IV) are good
friends. James needed a bit of convincing from Lauren to
bring their life preservers, but they really were a hit at
the party. After the event, I asked for their impression of
the ferry. "The Breeze is a beautiful ship and everyone
should ride it at least once. I believe that once people try
it, they will use it again", said James. Lauren said, "The
Premiere Passage was a chance of a lifetime! The ferry is
luxurious and restful; a perfect way to travel between
Rochester and Toronto. I'm going to bring my son and his
friends on the ferry in the near future."
While
getting ready to leave Port, I wandered out on deck to view
the Port of Rochester from the ferry. While out on deck, I
met Nancy Styles Gillette and Roseann Schmid, both Senior
Associates at Erdman
Anthony. Nancy and Roseann were involved in the
environmental impact studies; they ensured the ferry and
Port of Rochester projects met all state and federal
requirements. This event was personal to them too as it was
the culmination of a great deal of hard work. After the
event, I asked Roseann what she thought of the ferry. "The
ferry is amazing - very comfortable with many great
amenities - but not overdone. The ride was smooth which was
surprising to me considering it was rainy and the lake was
choppy."
Rosann brings up a good point -- the ride was VERY smooth! Anyone who is concerned about seasickness, take it from me...the guy that can get sick on any ride... it's smooth, stable and fast! You won't get sick.
The
last new friend that I'll mention is actually an old friend
from high school. By coincidence Kevin Marren, Associate at
LaBella
Associates, and I saw each on the ship. After catching
up about old friends, I was very happy to learn that Kevin
had become the architect that he always wanted to be AND he
took part in designing and managing the ferry terminal
renovation! Kevin does great work. Follow the link to
LaBella Associates and there are some great photos and news
items that detail LaBella's efforts to make this a state of
the art terminal facility that is compliant with all of the
post-9/11 customs regulations.
The Premiere Passage...Through My Eyes
The rest of this story is best told by pictures and I invite you to experience the Premiere Passage through this photo gallery
In the end, it was day (and night) to remember for all. We became part of history, we met new Rochester and Canadian friends with common goals and we all showed our support for Rochester and Toronto's newest attraction, The Breeze.
My Rochester Favorites - Continued
About 10 minutes away from the dock is
Seabreeze amusement park.
Seabreeze is a clean, organized and fun place to take the family without
spending a fortune. The typical day pass is about $18 or less. Every
year Seabreeze adds another ride, and the ride for 2004 is another
roller coaster. The water slides are my favorite part of the park. At
the top of one of the slides you get a great view of Lake Ontario before
plunging headlong into a dark water tunnel.
Strong Museum , located in the
heart of Rochester, was rated by Child Magazine and Family Fun Magazine
as one of the top ten children's museums in the U.S. Strong Museum's
more than 500,000 objects include the world's largest and most
historically significant collection of dolls and toys. This Museum has
grown every year, and keeps getting better and better. This is a
definite stop for families with children - complete with fun, hands on
activities to interest a wide range of ages (adults too!)
Rochester has a good selection of ethnic restaurants. Some of my
favorite locally owned restaurants are Mamasans (Vietnamese), Joy Luck
(Chinese), and Raj Mahal (Indian).
The Little Theatre has
renovated and expanded from the landmark Art Deco theater on East Avenue
in downtown Rochester to include four more screens, a cafe, art
exhibits, live jazz, film festivals, visiting filmmakers and world
theatrical premieres. It is the only true independent theatre that
offers a venue for film festivals and independent American and foreign
films. The theatres are cozy and the atmosphere is chic. Nice place to
take a date. Just a few blocks down the street from the Little is The
Spot, which is a trendy, chic, coffee shop. The previous car dealership
original art deco style was kept and is reflected in the furnishings and
accents. The Spot is a very unique and fun place to go for coffee or a
light meal.
There are festivals every weekend during the summer in the Rochester
area, but the Clothes Line Festival at the beginning of September is the
biggest and the best. The works of over 600 artists are displayed on the
Memorial Art Gallery's grounds. All exhibitors are screened so the
quality of the show is top notch. While you are walking around, you can
visit the Memorial Art Gallery
that is billed as "the best balanced collection of any museum in the
state outside metropolitan New York City."
The Rochester area is home to many fine colleges and universities such
as the Eastman School of Music, Nazareth College, Roberts Wesleyan
College, Rochester Institute of Technology, National Technical Institute
for the Deaf (NTID), St. John Fisher College, Monroe Community College,
and the world class University of Rochester. St. John Fisher is home to
the Buffalo Bills summer training camp during July and August, which is
a great place to see the professional football players up close in the
brand new football facilities. You will find everything you ever wanted
to buy with a Bills logo here. NTID offers theatre for the deaf where
hearing people use headphones to interpret the play.
The Eastman School of Music,
also in downtown Rochester, is one of the world's premier music schools.
More than 700 concerts a year are presented in the magnificent Eastman
Theatre and the intimate Kilbourn Hall. Many of the con