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July 2004 :: Issue 4

GOTO JUNE 2004 NEWSLETTER

GOTO AUGUST 2004 NEWSLETTER

Meet the Editor

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 2^nd 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 Release Schedule

Keuka Outlet is a Class 1 – Class 3 Whitewater run (I think 9 miles in length). 

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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. 

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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.

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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.

MORE>>

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

MORE>>

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.
 

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

Balloon Rides

 Letchworth Park, NY
$195/pp

Champagne Breakfast Included

Call Lance @ 1-800-777-2FLY

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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.

Keuka Wine Trail Map

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!

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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.

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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. 

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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 28^th anniversary, on August 7^th and 8^th 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 10^th 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!

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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 10^th.

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

Liberty House B&B

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.

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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 concerts are free.

The Genesee Country Museum, presents an authentic expression of regional pioneer life over 150 years ago. The museum, comprised of a 19th century village, Gallery of Sporting Art and a Nature Center, is New York's largest, and America's third largest living history museum. The Genesee Country Nature Center features five miles of hiking trails through 175 acres of woodlands, wetlands and meadows.

The Woman's Rights National Historic Park run by the National Park Service, consists of four major historical properties and a state of the art Visitor Center located in Seneca Falls, New York. This is about a 90 minute drive from the ferry dock.

The George Eastman House is a national treasure of photography. The house is nested along mansion lined East Avenue in the museum part of Rochester. They have daily movie showings at the Dryden theatre, which was George Eastman's private theatre. They have maintained the theatre to perfection, and it is a truly unique experience to sit in the balcony seats and enjoy a movie in a 1930's style theatre. They have a Director and Actor speaker series in conjunction with the movies. The photographic collection is world class, and the home is maintained in much the same way it was 80 years ago.

Leaving the George Eastman House, you can walk across the street to the Rochester Planetarium and Science Center. I enjoy just meandering around this area with the beautiful mansions. Park Avenue is about six blocks south, with a great assortment of street cafés and interesting shops. Iggy's Frog Pond is a very small cozy Park Ave restaurant that has the best breakfast in town.

The High Falls area is another work in progress by Mayor Johnson. This area was a major blight ten years ago, and has been transformed into a place worth making a special trip to. The High Falls is the centerpiece of the area with a selection of eateries overlooking the falls. The renovation of many abandoned buildings into office space is still in progress. The High Falls Film festival is held every year here. Since there aren't 10 million people to compete with, you can actually get tickets for many of the events.

Across the street from the High Falls area is Frontier Field (click here for live camera), a classic styled minor league baseball stadium. The Red Wings, a Minnesota Twins affiliate, play here in what has to be one of the best minor league stadiums anywhere. Watching a game in the clean, new, and friendly family oriented stadium is an enjoyable way to spend a warm summer evening. After the game, you can walk across the street to see the free High Falls laser light show, which runs on weekends during the summer months.

The Rochester Rhino's soccer team usually plays to sold out crowds every home game at Frontier field. Mayor Johnson lobbied for a new soccer stadium that will be built near Frontier field in the High Falls area in the summer of 2004. They expect to obtain a major league MLS franchise within the next two years due to the overwhelming support for the team.

Rochester is a well-educated area, which supports a good selection of college, high school, and local theatre productions. Geva Theatre  is the one professional theatre in downtown Rochester. They provide high quality professional plays in a rather cozy setting. All the seats in the house are excellent. Typical cost is about $25-$40 US for the best seats in the house. I've been to Toronto theatre and it is terrific, but this theatre has great shows and close seating for a lot less money.

There are four major malls around Rochester, and Eastview (click here for store layout - requires Adobe Acrobat Reader) is the biggest, newest, and most upscale of the four. If you are willing to drive about an hour from Rochester, The Waterloo Premium Outlet Mall on Interstate 90 has the best bargains from 100 name brand outlet stores. I love the Black and Decker store there. I got a 1/2" drill for about $29 US last summer.

The "Grand Canyon of the East" is located about 90 minutes south of Rochester near Mt. Morris, New York. Writers of Outdoor Traveler have named Letchworth State Park the best of Eight Great State Park Hikes--calling it "a hiking Mecca for everyone." Activities include guided hiking tours, two swimming pools, hot-air ballooning, white water rafting, kayaking and canoeing. The "Glen Iris Inn" is a quaint inn located right on the middle falls that seems to be booked for weddings every weekend during the summer. The three major falls within the long and winding canyon make for an interesting and scenic day trip.

Millions of dollars has been spent in making the historic Erie Canal accessible to bikers and hikers. You can navigate 524 miles of the Erie Canal by waterway, biking, or walking. There are numerous boat tours on the canal. For about $2500 a month, you can rent a two-bedroom canal houseboat and have a unique get-away-from-it-all vacation. One of the more scenic canal areas is in Pittsford NY, just 20 minutes from the ferry dock. The canal park area, called Schoen Place, has quaint shops, ice cream stores, bike rentals, canoe rentals, canal boat rides and restaurants overlooking the canal. This is one of my favorite places to walk or ride a bike.

Rochester is located at the top of the Finger Lakes Wine District. There are 60 wineries in the Finger Lakes, and the countryside around these lakes is pristine and beautiful. The closest winery, Casa Larga, is only about 40 minutes from the ferry dock. Check out FingerLakesWineTours.com for a list of wineries that you can reach while driving through some of the most scenic roads in the U.S.

Golfing is a passion of mine. If you follow professional golf, you may remember the Oak Hill golf course that is also located in the nearby suburb of Pittsford. This was the site of the Ryder cup a few years back, and the PGA in 2003. It is rated as one of the top 10 courses in the U.S. Unfortunately, You won't be able to see the course until the next PGA tourney in about three years. Fortunately, you have access to about 84 other public and semi-private courses. See RochesterGolfLinks.com for a complete list of courses you can play in the Rochester area. I have heard that the typical round of golf in Toronto costs about $100 CDN. In Rochester, Saturday and Sunday AM golf times are the most expensive with the best courses charging $35-$60 US for cart and green fees. If you can tee off after 1pm the rates are usually lower. Mill Creek will be opening in late summer 2004, and is expected to be a top regional golf course. There are some excellent courses for a bargain, and tee times are readily available.

The Pittsford Wegmans is a unique grocery store that I shop on a regular basis. It is a destination for visiting friends and relatives. It has a Sushi Bar, pizza, wings, and hot gourmet dinners available to take home or eat in their dining room. There is also a gourmet restaurant located next to the grocery store. The selection of fresh fruits and vegetables from around the world is amazing. It was also voted one of the best places to work in the U.S.

If you are interested in snow skiing, Bristol Hills is the largest resort in the area. It is located about an hour south of Rochester. It has a 1,200-foot vertical rise on top of a 2,200 summit with 32 slopes and trails and a 2-mile run. It is a scenic area with beautiful valley views from much of the mountain. Bristol has been expanding this large and well-organized facility to be a year around resort area.

As you can see, there is plenty to do in Rochester all year around.

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