Lake Erie Living - May 2023

BE THE TALK OF THE LAKE THIS SUMMER

BE THE TALK OF THE LAKE THIS SUMMER

BE THE TALK OF THE LAKE THIS SUMMER

LET OUR TEAM HELP YOU FIND THE RIGHT MANITOU SO YOU CAN START MAKING MEMORIES ON THE WATER THIS SUMMER.

LET OUR TEAM HELP YOU FIND THE RIGHT MANITOU SO YOU CAN START MAKING MEMORIES ON THE WATER THIS SUMMER.

LET OUR TEAM HELP YOU FIND THE RIGHT MANITOU SO YOU CAN START MAKING MEMORIES ON THE WATER THIS SUMMER.

Whatever You Need

Some springs, I’m itching for adventure and load the calendar up with outings, overnight trips and visits with friends. Ropes course with the kids? Sure! Concert on the river in Cleveland? Absolutely! A trip to the onthe-water wineries in Ontario? I’m in!

Other years, I’m ready to take it easy and lean into days that begin and end on the front porch, with maybe a nice long walk in between.

The beautiful thing about Lake Erie is that it can give you whatever you need. Boating or sailing. Sunrise or sunset. Quiet beaches or bustling amusement parks. Birding or shopping.

Sometimes, a storm will choose for you — and you’ll find yourself on the porch with your favorite people and a strawberry dessert that’s super easy to whip up (page 9). Other times, the warm night air will be so inviting that a Netflix night turns into a jaunt into town for ice cream.

In our 2023 Summer Fun Guide (page 14), you’ll get the scoop on the summer’s best concerts, festivals and celebrations. Some are on the chill side, while others are packed full of people — and fun.

And for those moments when you really do want to relax on your porch, patio or deck, we’re happy to keep you company. Our story on Lake Erie’s Coastal Grandmas (page 10) is a fun summer read featuring three very impressive women. You can also follow us on Facebook (Facebook.com/LakeErieLiving) and Instagram (Instagram.com/LakeErieLiving) and subscribe to our free weekly newsletter at LakeErieLiving.com/newsletter. In all these places, you’ll find stories, photos and videos that we simply can’t squeeze into the print edition.

Whether you’re up for long walks or long nights, we’ll see you on the lake.

P.S. Don’t forget to cast your vote for our upcoming “Best of Lake Erie” issue at LakeErieLiving.com/ best.

Colleen Smitek Editor

Chairman Lute Harmon Sr.

President

Lute Harmon Jr.

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Laura Watilo Blake, Lara Busold, Linda Feagler, Vince Guerrieri, Kristen Hampshire and Jennifer Webb

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Rayanne Medford rmedford@glpublishing.com

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Megan Rosta

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The Big Man in Town

Anyone who’s ever visited or lived on the Marblehead Peninsula over the past half-century knows of Handless Jacques.

Jacques was the mascot of an eponymous central Ohio fast-food chain (where he was billed as “the big man with the big sandwiches”). The statue that now greets travelers on Ohio Route 163 in Danbury Township once stood in front of a restaurant in Marion, Ohio. After the chain was bought out, Jacques made the trek to his current home next to the Mickey Mart in northwest Ohio. (A twin that formerly was in front of a Mansfield, Ohio, franchise found a home on a piece of land near Buckeye Express Diner in Mansfield — and a new identity as the world’s largest bobblehead.)

Mike Cahill, a retired building contractor originally from the Cleveland area, remembered camping in Marblehead as a kid. And he was so taken by Jacques that he worked with the Port Clinton Area Arts Council, donating his time to repair him — and even give him new hands.

“I was back in Marblehead for the first time in about 15 years, and when I saw it, I said, ‘there’s only one guy crazy enough in this world to fix it, and that’s me,’” Cahill says from his home in Florida. “I was told that there aren’t a lot of roadside statues that are this tall anymore. It really inspired me.”

When Cahill still lived in Ohio, one of his neighbors was Dave Young, the owner of Young’s RV in nearby Fremont. Young bought the piece of property on which Jacques now sits in the 1980s, and the statue was included. When Cahill approached him with the idea to fix the big guy up, he was all for it.

Cahill had a tight window in which to get the job done — warm enough to work outside with fiberglass, but not during the Marblehead Peninsula’s busy season. He relied on a team of volunteers to do the work. “I just directed traffic,” he says.

He envisions a threephase plan. The first phase, now complete at a cost around $9,000, involved restoring the statue itself and getting it new hands (back when it functioned as a sign, they held a tray showing some of the restaurant’s wares). The tails of Jacques’ jacket were fixed, and new fiberglass was installed where cracks were showing.

“The bones are solid, but the skin was starting to fall apart,” Cahill says.

Jacques’ bowtie was painted to look like an American flag — and he was adorned with a silk Lakeside daisy boutonniere covered in fiberglass.

Further plans include a flagpole in Jacques’ hand and additional lighting and landscaping on the property. Cahill says the reaction has been almost universally positive.

“As a builder, I’m used to some pushback,” he says. “I got nothing. Everybody seemed to want it fixed. It’s a landmark. People love it.”

The only criticism he’s gotten is on the size of Jacques’ hands, which seem out of proportion to the rest of his body. But Cahill’s done enough research to know that accuracy would be even more ridiculous.

“If you look at the picture in Marion, his hands are huge,” he says. “We actually made the hands two feet smaller, and people are still talking about his hands.”

– Vince Guerrieri

Strawberry Sensation

Sharon Judd and her family grow nine varieties of strawberries — among other things — at Meadow Lynne Farms in Simcoe, Ontario. But they also eat them. This recipe is a favorite at picnics and barbecues. “What’s great,” says Judd, “is once strawberry season is over you can just start using the next fruit in season. Peaches and blueberries are especially good.”

Strawberry “Pizza” Recipe

CRUST

• 1 1/4 cup flour

• 1/3 cup brown sugar

• 3 tablespoons powdered sugar

• 2/3 cup butter (softened)

TOPPING

• 12 ounces cream cheese (softened)

• 1/2 cup sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla

• 4 cups fresh strawberries, (halved or quartered)

• Optional toppings: whipped cream, chocolate sauce, nuts or caramel

Crust: Hand mix or beat flour, brown sugar, powdered sugar and butter until it forms a ball. Press onto a greased, foil-lined 12-inch pizza pan (a cookie tray also will work). Bake at 350 degrees for 10 to 15 minutes and cool.

Topping: Beat cream cheese, sugar and vanilla together. Spread over cooled crust. Arrange strawberries in a pattern of your choice. Finish with your choice of garnishes, such as whipped cream, chocolate sauce, nuts or caramel.

Check out Meadow Lynne Farms’ Strawberry Open House on June 24 for free strawberries and ice cream, face painting, strawberry lemonade and wagon rides.  meadowlynnfarms.com

LAKE ERIE’S Coastal Grandmas

The TikTok phenomenon finds a new aesthetic along our shore — and it’s not just for those with grandkids.

Stories by Arbela Capas

Illustration by Emily Zhang

Summer is the time when fabrics get a little thinner, foundation is replaced by sunscreen, and you let your hair air dry.

Summer is also the time to steal a scene out of a Nancy Meyers romantic comedy (think Diane Keaton in Something’s Gotta Give) and act like the leading lady of your own life. That means linen by day and light cashmere at night with a bouquet of fresh flowers — or a wine glass — in hand. Feet always in the sand.

And that aesthetic has a name, thanks to a video that went viral. It’s called Coastal Grandma — and it was coined by Lex Nicoleta on TikTok. But the Coastal Grandma ideal seems to appeal to women of all generations. It’s easy living, straw hats and long walks on the beach. It’s wisdom, rest and living your very best life.

This ideal is perfect for our shores. But instead of a snooty Californian sipping Chardonnay in Sonoma, a more down-to-earth, lake-loving coastal grandma emerges. One who spends summer weekends pontooning on Kelleys Island, sipping a glass of sauvignon blanc from Rocky Point Winery or decorating her cottage or home in Erie with eclectic antiques discovered at local flea markets.

She makes the most of sunny days, smells like cedarwood and isn’t afraid to get her hands dirty in the sand with her grandkids — or steering her own boat. Her wardrobe is polished, but not too polished; she’ll sport a breezy sundress, then throw on a worn-in hoodie once the sun goes down.

But above all, Lake Erie’s Coastal Grandma is a grandmother to everyone — always helping in her community, giving away beach glass to her friends and finding new crafts to try with her family. She makes the most of each day along Erie’s shores, constantly finding new things to love about our lake — and her life.

10 COASTAL GRANDMA Essentials

Wrap yourself in CG style with these comfy classics.

ANNIE LINEN PANT ($53), Shore Society. These light-beige, flared, sailor-style pants give you plenty of movement while still brightening up any beach ensemble. Pair it with a simple outfit, a button-down cotton top or even a casual hoodie for a day out on the water. Cleveland, shoresociety.com

CHAPPYWRAP BLANKET ($135), Erie & Anchor.

The options for this royal, scallop-patterned blanket are endless. Bring it on the boat to wrap yourself in a cozy cocoon, use it as a lastminute picnic blanket on the beach or make it a centerpiece by draping it over your porch furniture. Vermilion, Ohio; erieandanchor.com

BEIGE CABLE KNIT SWEATER ($68), E. Lane Boutique. You’re heading out for a night out to a winery or a restaurant patio. Or maybe you’re meeting some friends on a boat after work. You need to look chic but versatile — a simple cable knit sweater will do the trick every time. It’s a fail safe for any coastal grandma. Erie, Pa.; e-laneboutique.com

MINI SHELL BAG ($30), Vela Bags. Is it a chic bucket bag or a shell bag? Why not both? This white mini bag isn’t only practical but has already gone on some adventures of its own. Made with recycled sail material that has sailed the Great Lakes along with a sturdy Textilene mesh, any beach glass hunter needs one of these. Erie, Pa.; etsy.com/velabags

LAKE ERIE CROPPED

SWEATSHIRT ($45), Coastal Cleveland. Cozy and light as a feather, this is the ideal go-to sweatshirt to throw over your outfit after a long day out on the boat. Everything about this piece says “unwind,” from its soft material, simple ribbed detailing to the light blue snow-washed dye that creates a slightly distressed, lived-in texture. Cleveland, coastalcleveland.com

GRANDDAUGHTER PERSONALIZED BRACELET ($28.99), Julie Ann Designed. For everyday jewelry, a coastal grandma needs something that’s light, out of the way and doesn’t get tangled in her hair or between her sweater sleeves. A simple charm bracelet is a nobrainer — and there’s nothing more special than this stainless steel bracelet that is customizable to remind you of your grandkids. Port Clinton, Ohio; julieanndesigned.com

Jennifer Reed’s Treasures

Jennifer Reed is always moving. Whether it’s her hands working hard at creating her next piece of beach glass jewelry for her business, Relish Inc., or plotting boating trips with her husband, the metalsmith and jewelry maker from Erie, Pennsylvania, feels the most content when she’s in motion.

Heart of Glass: A trained metalsmith, Reed has been creating art out of glass given to her by Lake Erie since 1996. “My son was 6 at the time, and he found a piece of beach glass and asked me to make him a ring.”

Swaying and Waving: Even when Reed is taking time to relax, she needs to be on the move to feel like herself. This means going on walks along the peninsula or, even better, swaying with the Lake Erie waves on her boat. “I’d rather be on a boat,” Reed says. “When my husband and I travel, we’re looking for activities to do, like paddleboarding or renting a sailboat.”

Quality Uniform: When getting dressed for her busy days, Reed goes for the comfort of simple linens, soft knits and any non-synthetic materials, but you’ll also find a hint of eclecticism and genuine fun in her style. “I’m just as comfortable in my Carhartt painting overalls as I am in a linen button-down.”

Bejeweled: The signature of her style lies in her own pieces in which she adorns herself every day — and across all seasons. “I like building my wardrobe around the earrings because I’m enjoying them so

much, and I tend to go for the blue colors – and usually something a little bit funky, a little bit longer.”

Always on the Job: “It’s hard for me to sit on a beach and just sunbathe,” Reed says. “So, if I’m at the beach, I’m usually looking for beach glass.”

Relishing the Moment: “Every morning I say, ‘thank you for this perfect day,’” Reed says. “Because I like to have an attitude of gratitude. It may not be as much as some people but it’s just enough for me.”

Erin Stack’s Adventures

Erin Stack lives and breathes Lake Erie. And the mother of four and grandmother of two from Avon Lake, Ohio, wouldn’t have it any other way. So, it makes sense that she owns the quintessential lake living lifestyle and apparel brand in the Cleveland area. But it isn’t just Coastal Cleveland that keeps her busy; she knows how to prioritize family fun and simple luxuries as much as she does running her small business.

Family Memories: Whether it’s jumping off their boat into the lake against a sherbet-colored sunset or savoring a pool day, Stack and her family have a common love language — water. One of their favorite pastimes is summer trips to Catawba Island every year. “I honestly believe that this tradition was the inception of Coastal Cleveland,” she says. “Traveling that Lake Erie coastline as a family, for over a decade, showed us so much of what lake living was all about.”

Jane Anderson’s Lakeside Love

Jane Anderson’s love for Lakeside, Ohio, is unmatched. When asked about it, Anderson, who has been coming to the vacation town with her family since the 1980s, beams about everything it has to offer. When she’s not serving as chair of the town’s board of directors, you’ll catch her biking, playing shuffleboard or hosting patio dinners with her family.

Gather Round: It’s no surprise that Anderson’s cottage in Lakeside becomes a hot spot for her extended family and grandkids — and she doesn’t shy away from planning their itinerary. “Our cottage overflows with people,” she says. “There’s so much to do for different age levels, whether it be swimming, pickleball, shuffleboard or kids’ concerts.”

Cycling Diaries: For Anderson, one of her favorite modes of transportation is by bike, whether it’s taking casual rides along the Marblehead Peninsula or even taking a ferry across to Kelleys Island for an extra adventure.

Minimalist Approach: When asked what she always has in her bag, Anderson’s philosophy is less is more. Instead, she carries her phone, which has a small pouch on the back that holds her driver’s license and a credit card.

Cottage Dreams: Since Lakeside truly feels like a second home to Anderson, her cottage reflects a warm and lived-in style. “We wanted to make it beautiful, yet comfortable so people can come and feel like they could just relax here. Our color scheme is very clean — all different

shades of blues and whites with a punch of yellow here and there. And we have artwork from the area that we have collected from local artists.”

Sundressed Up: Feminine and full-ofease are Anderson’s personal style adjectives. “I’ll usually throw on a sundress and a pair of sandals in the summertime because it’s just so easy,” she says. “It’s usually either cotton or a linen dress, usually something from Tommy Bahama. But nothing super fancy.”

Morning Mantra: Before Anderson even steps out her front door, she shows gratitude. “Thank you, God, for this day.”

BEADED ROPE JEWELRY ($22), Bowl Bridenbaker Designs.

A colorful place to throw your trinkets, keys, collected beach glass and shells or simply your jewelry after a long day. Handcrafted with soft, yet sturdy, cotton rope and secured with cork tags and with colorful beads at the edge, this bowl will become an heirloom piece in your home and family. Avon Lake, Ohio; etsy.com/birdenbakerdesigns

SHADOW STRIPE JACKET ($89), Fabulous Female Boutique. For an evening out on the boat when you still want to feel chic — this nautical-inspired topper matches the lake’s waves while also pairing with any other coastal grandma pieces. Sandusky, Ohio; thefabulousfemale.com

NORTH BASS ISLAND SOAP ($4.50), Marblehead Soap Co.

Add a unique touch to your cottage’s guestroom or give yourself a luxurious hand wash after a long day with this fruity smelling perfume made with coconut oil, shea butter and water lye. Marblehead, Ohio; marbleheadsoap.com

Casual Comfort: Stack’s outfits rely on dependable neutrals that she can switch out for any occasion. A pair of Lucky Brand white capris and black Old Navy flip-flops for a night on the patio and a pair of cut-offs and one of her Coastal Cleveland logo tees when out on the boat. No purse needed, either. “I throw on a little mascara and eyeliner, grab my phone and head out the door.”

Grandma Knows Best: Stack loves to create full-on field trips when she has her two grandkids — which they’ve adorably dubbed “Nonnie Adventure Days.” This can range from a tour of Cleveland’s museums, grabbing ice cream at Granny Joes in Vermilion, Ohio, or kayaking on the Black River just down the road in Lorain.

Local Love: If you ask her for a go-to place to relax, she recommends we look no further than Rocky Point Winery in Marblehead, Ohio. “I absolutely love hanging out here on a summer afternoon because I feel like I’m relaxing in someone’s backyard,” she says. “It’s a slice of heaven on earth for me.”

Day or Night: Stack’s activities range from fast-paced to relaxed, whether it’s sitting by the lake, sipping her favorite drink on a patio, hiking in the Cleveland Metroparks or boating over to the islands. Usually with her husband, Brian, by her side. “Sitting on Lake Erie, by ourselves, is the most tranquil, soul-filling experience,” she says.

Note to Self: Erin tries to live every day to the fullest. “We only have one life.”

WARM STRIPE APRON ($39), Cleveland Sewing Co.

Every coastal grandma needs a good apron to reach for. Made of hemp and organic cotton, this simple striped design lets you look chic while getting your hands dirty prepping a family dinner or doing some garden upkeep. Plus, there’s plenty of pockets for all your tools. Cleveland, clevelandsewingcompany.com

COURTESY INDIVIDUAL BUSINESSES, JANE ANDERSON

Summer Lovin’ Lake

on the

What’s the plan? Steal away for the day — or even an entire weekend — to enjoy nature, live music, food, drink, fireworks, parades and more at the season’s best festivals, celebrations and concerts. After all, it’s summer.

By Kristen Hampshire

FUNSUMMERGUIDE 2023

MAY 5-14

Biggest Week in American Birding | Oak Harbor, Ohio

It’s the largest birding festival in the world and draws 90,000 people from around the world toting binoculars to experience songbird spring migration in Oak Harbor. And it’s not just for big-time birders. First-timers can find fancy in the feathered parade organized by Black Swamp Bird Observatory. Here’s why this corner of Lake Erie is the right place and time for an impressive show.

Birds’ Eye Views: There are other places in the country to spot migratory birds, but the timing is just right in Northwest Ohio. “The peak of songbird migration happens early enough in the season, before leaf-out, so you can see the birds really well,” says Kimberly Kaufman, BSBO executive director.

Location, Location: Songbirds aren’t swimmers but they must cross Lake Erie to reach Canada. To make the journey, they bulk up on insects, which are plentiful along the mile-long boardwalk at Magee Marsh Wildlife Area. Loud and Clear: “By the time the birds get to our latitude, the males are singing so you have birds that are looking fabulous at their energetic best,” Kaufman says. “There is a vividness to being outside with the birds that is truly special.”

Birders Are Just Nice People: “They are so eager to share,” Kaufman says, encouraging first-timers to attend. “When you find a beautiful treasure, you want to show someone. ” biggestweekinamericanbirding.com

JUNE 16-18

Festival of the Fish | Vermilion, Ohio

“Fishstock … Three Days of Peace, Music & Perch” is this year’s theme. Come for the food (perch, of course), drinks, music and fireworks. vermilionohio. com/festival-of-the-fish

JUNE 18 – SEPT. 4

(Select Dates)

Peek’n Peak Bonfire & Brews | Clymer, N.Y.

Bring an appetite for music, games and, of course, craft brews and a s’mores station. The summer fun includes an Aerial Adventure Course and scenic chairlift rides. Plus, there’s the pool and cabana bar. As for the concert series, the kick-off is June 18 with the band Hard Luck Story. pknpk.com

Biggest Week in American Birding

BLACK SWAMP BIRD OBSERVATORY , PEEK’N PEAK RESORT

JUNE 21-22

Burning River Fest | Cleveland, Ohio

Two music stages, downtown Cleveland waterfront views, Great Lakes Brewing Co. beer, food trucks — need we say more? Oh, all ticket and beer sales benefit the Burning River Foundation. Cheers! burningriverfest.org

JUNE 23-26

Pyrate Fest | Put-in-Bay, Ohio Pirates will invade the downtown harbor on Friday night, and Saturday is chock full of activities for kids and grownups. From cannon firing demos to parades and re-enactments, bring all your “hearties” and a yo-ho-ho spirit! visitputinbay.com

JULY 7-9

Huron River Fest | Huron, Ohio

Midway rides and games kick off Friday at 5 p.m. Check out the kiddie tractor pull, road show, parade, fireworks and full lineup of entertainment. If you’ve got a taste for chicken barbecue, buy a ticket for the Fire Department’s fundraiser in advance. huronriverfest.com

JUNE 3, JULY 8, AUG. 3 & 26

Celebrating 150 Years | Lakeside, Ohio

You can listen to a keynote speaker in a hotel conference room and see a concert in an amphitheater, but the experience at Lakeside Chautauqua on the south shore of Lake Erie is “an engaging backdrop you can’t find anywhere else,” says Gretchen Colon, vice president of advancement for the historic destination, where generations gather to relax, reconnect and enjoy a range of recreation.

It’s a family hub, and a welcome break from the daily bustle. “Lakeside nudges us into resting and taking a step back in time,” Colon says.

The sesquicentennial birthday includes an extensive speaker lineup — plus plenty of live entertainment — from Memorial Day through Labor Day, including:

June 3 — Whose Line Is It Anyway?: Comedians Colin Mochrie and Brad Sherwood entertain with original songs, scenes and whatever you toss at them from the audience.

Whose Line is it Anyway?

July 8 — Blood, Sweat & Tears: In its World Tour, classic rock band BS&T fuses rock, jazz and blues.

Aug. 3 — Jim Tressel: The former Ohio State University football coach delivers a keynote lecture.

Aug. 26 — Jim Brickman: Join the Cleveland native and Grammy-nominated pianist in his Across America, Greatest Hits Live tour. lakesideohio.com

Vermilion Festival of the Fish

Lakeside, Ohio

COURTESY LAKESIDE CHAUTAQUA, PUT-IN-BAY PYRATE FEST, VERMILION FESTIVAL OF THE FISH

NEVER EXPERIENCED CHAUTAUQUA? Here’s a primer…

STAY: The property’s flagship Athenaeum Hotel offers packages that bundle recreation, classes, arts and performances.

DINE: The hotel’s Heirloom Restaurant offers lake views and a sweeping porch where you can take in a sunset. Or check out 3 Taps & The A Truck on the lake, settle into an Adirondack chair by one of the fire pits and sip from a full adult beverage menu. Food trucks on the beach supply easy eats.

FOR THE KIDS: Kids ages 3 to 16 can participate in day camp activities, and those ages 6 to 16 can join the Boys and Girls Clubs, one of the oldest day camps in the country. Or, drop in to the Youth Activities Center, complete with a snack bar and games. There’s plenty of unstructured fun on the beach, trails and open green spaces.

FOR THE GROWNUPS: Programming includes lectures, performances, recreation—the schedule is packed. Make it easier on yourself by using the handy Experience Planner. Don’t forget to build in time to just relax.

The Bottom Line: “You can absolutely fill up your calendar with events from the time you wake up until the moment your head hits the pillow,” says Jordan Steves, spokesperson for Chautauqua Institution. “But this is also a great place for leisure time, reading a book by the lake or recreation like sailing, golf and tennis.”

JULY 8

Natalie Merchant and the Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra | Chautauqua, N.Y.

She started as lead vocalist for 10,000 Maniacs and during her 40-year career, Natalie Merchant has made a name as a respected recording artist, songwriter, performer and social justice and environmental activist. She will take the stage with the Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra. chq.org

JULY 8

Kelleys Island’s Got Talent | Kelleys Island, Ohio

Sing a tune, play a guitar — or a kazoo — tell jokes, dance or do whatever talent you fancy. The judged contest includes a children’s and adult competition. An audition video is required to participate, so you’d better practice. kelleysislandchamber.com

JULY 14-16

Kelleys IslandFest | Kelleys Island, Ohio

The island’s largest annual festival features craft vendors, food and drink, and a street dance party on Friday and Saturday nights. Check out the parade Saturday morning and hop around the island all day until fireworks after dusk. kelleysislandchamber.com

JULY 15

Headlands BeachFest | Mentor, Ohio

The ultimate familyfriendly beach party’s lineup includes all-day entertainment, food trucks, crafts vendors and the Ohio Master Sand Sculpting Competition. Three world-champion sculptors build larger-than-life creations. (It takes them three days.) Families get their own sand lot to play, build and see who wins. cityofmentor.com

JULY 15

Middle Bass Music Festival | Middle Bass Island, Ohio

Middle Bass is an island escape without the loud and crowd, and you can take in a low-key daylong fest with food, drinks and live entertainment at its annual Music Festival. Word is, Benny on Bass will make an appearance as the event icon. Miller Boatline will run an extra ferry back to mainland, departing at 7 p.m. when the fest ends. lakeerieislandsconservancy.org/ music-festival

JULY 16

Le Tour de Norfolk | Delhi, Ontario

Ride at your own pace — it’s not a race. You’ll want to take in

the postcard-worthy backroads and villages of Norfolk County, along with rest stops that beg a repeat visit. One stop is Sand Hill Park by Port Burwell along the lakeshore. The last is Charlotteville Brewing Company. “The roads are all paved. It’s quiet and scenic,” says Yvette Mahieu, the ride’s founder. “We just want people to enjoy riding and meet new people along the way.” letourdenorfolk.com

JULY 21-23

Wine & Walleye Festival | Ashtabula, Ohio

Got grapes? Ashtabula does. During this annual festival, the city encourages guests to eat, drink, shop and enjoy. That includes a fishing tournament, tastings, fireworks and entertainment like tours of Tall Ship the Lettie G. Howard, the only surviving example of a Fredonia-model fishing schooner. wineandwalleyefestival.com

JULY 21-22

The Summer Market | Lorain, Ohio

From vintage finds and coastal decor to art, jewelry and a robust farmers market, the annual Summer Market at Black River Landing is a maker’s mecca with a family vibe. It all started in 2006 with 20 vendors and one restaurant. Today, it’s a sought-after venue for more than 100 artists, shop owners, collectors, growers and chefs drawing more than 15,000 guests each year. Grab a bite from food trucks and featured restaurants, sip on a cocktail by the lake, take in live music — and shop. “I’m proud of the way Summer Market helps everyone,” says Erin Stack, co-founder, who you can also find featured on page 12. Here, Stack shares some highlights and tips on how to make the most of your time there.

JULY 24-30

Discover Presque Isle | Erie, Pa.

Celebrate all things Presque Isle — which means beachy activities like sandcastle competitions and volleyball, bonfires, music and the wildlife on this seven-mile stretch of sandy surf beaches. Check out self-guided and tour-led hikes, live music and lighthouse tours. “There is a variety of children’s activities and workshops that teach visitors about the importance of conservation, protecting the inhabitants of the park — including plant life — and keeping the park and beach clean,” says Christine Temple of VisitErie.

CONTINUE

DISCOVERING:

If you’ve got an appetite for creativity, check out the Beach 11 Handmade Marketplace & Food Truck Festival on July 28-30. discoverpi.com/events/dpi

Musicians Club, formed in 1917 during segregation. The club is the longest continuously operating African American musicians’ organization, and it holds the annual Queen City Jazz Festival at Lafayette Square to recreate the experience. Foot tapping and food trucks for free. Can’t go wrong there. “It’s a celebration of what the club represented to the city and the entire world,” says event coordinator George Scott. “We create that by bringing in major headliners along with featuring local talent.”

INTERMISSION:

While in town, stop in at The Colored Musicians Club & Jazz Museum to check out interactive exhibits with phenomenal jazz storytelling. thecoloredmusiciansclub.com

AUG. 2-6

Q: What can visitors expect this year?

A: You will see every bay filled with vendors selling fresh produce, herbs, bouquets, jams, greens and more. Marshall’s Antique Warehouse from Canton, Ohio, will join us with architectural salvage goods. Cleveland Field Kitchen is back in the restaurant lineup. Try the herb bean puree with heirloom tomatoes. The Docktail Bar will serve up canned cocktails, and our Girls Give Back booth will offer iced tea in Summer Market mason jars.

Q: What makes Summer Market special?

A: Its foundation. It was founded on community, kindness, doing good and helping others. It is hosted by Girls Give Back and run by a team of volunteers as a fundraising event. It has also been a launch pad for hundreds of small businesses. All this together makes it a feel-good event that people like to be a part of.

Q: Any tips for making the most of your experience at Summer Market?

A: It’s a place to enjoy with others. We have parking on site, and if you park in our $20 Fundraising Lot, you get a spot close to the event. Friday Night is packed with shoppers, diners and sunset seekers. Saturday morning is the most chill. Bring a cart or wagon if you plan to load up. Check out the Porter Station for assistance with large purchases. thesummermarket.com

JULY 31

Queen City Jazz Festival | Buffalo, N.Y.

Duke Ellington toured to Buffalo 19 times. Count Basie Orchestra played in town 23 times, and jazz greats like Ella Fitzgerald and Billie Holiday also took the stage at The Colored

Lucille Ball Comedy Festival | Jamestown, N.Y.

Comedy legend Lucille Ball’s legacy lives on with the annual Lucille Ball Comedy Festival that showcases up-and-coming talent from around the country and comedy’s biggest stars. “This festival is not just for Lucy fans, but for anyone who loves live comedy,” says Gary Hahn of the National Comedy

Lucille Ball Comedy Festival COURTESY LORAIN SUMMER MARKET, NATIONAL COMEDY CENTER

MORE TO EXPLORE:

Center, an interactive venue named Best New Museum in the Country by USA Today What’s on stage at this year’s event? Check out headlining arena shows, and more than 50 live events in venues throughout Jamestown, including stand-up comedy showcases, late-night comedy, block parties, live music, kids comedy, movie nights and I Love Lucy legacy shows. comedycenter.org/festival

AUG. 17-19

D-Day Conneaut | Conneaut, Ohio

D-Day Ohio invades the Conneaut shores for the largest reenactment of its kind in the country. The living tribute to WWII veterans includes mock battles, living history displays and more than 1,500 reenactors in attendance. ddayohio.us

AUG. 18-20

CelebrateErie 2023 | Erie, Pa.

Centered in Perry Square is an everything-Erie festival that features local art, food, beer, wine, music and cool stuff for the kids. Check out the Family District with hands-on activities, the Business District with homegrown entrepreneurs and the Culture District with international food and artisans. Four stages showcase live entertainment. A major draw is the Chalkwalk, where local artists color the streets with vibrant murals. celebrateerie.com

AUG. 19-20

Port Dover Summer Fest | Port Dover, Ontario

Also called Art in the Park, this festival includes a fun component for bibliophiles — preloved books and magazines. Peruse antiques, crafts and arts by makers of all sorts. While you’re there, check out the charming town’s boutiques and steal away

to the lakefront with a blanket to take in a sunset. portdoversummerfestival.com

AUG. 23-24

Bash on the Bay | Put-in-Bay, Ohio

Check out chart-topping country music acts at Bash on the Bay.This year’s headliners include Pitbull featuring Elle King, and Luke Bryan. Book lodging in advance. bashonthebay.com

SEPT. 7-10

Thunder on the Strip | Geneva-on-the-Lake, Ohio

The largest motorcycle rally in Northeast Ohio offers entertainment all day and night. Catch the daredevil Harley-Davidson Contraband Stunt Team. The Founder’s Parade is Sept. 9, and work your way around the bars and dives to earn a Thunder Bar Hop T-shirt. thunderonthestrip.com

Port Dover Summer Fest COURTESY CELEBRATE ERIE, PORT DOVER SUMMER FEST

CelebrateErie

Reflecting

Lake Erie

Middle Bass Island has long provided the inspiration for painter Michelle Brunner — and soon she’ll have a place of her own to fuel her passion and build new memories.

By Rachel Hagenbaugh

Layers of watery blues, bubble gum pinks and serene greens cover the canvases of Michelle Brunner’s creations, reflecting memories of summers spent on Middle Bass Island and life along Lake Erie.

“People ask me what inspires me to paint all of these coastal scenes, and they are surprised when they find out that I’m from Ohio and that’s what I see from the island,” she says. “They say it looks like New England.”

Brunner, an art teacher at northwest Ohio’s Perrysburg High School for almost 20 years, has always had a passion for painting. In 2017, she made a New Year’s resolution to paint in her sketchbook every day for a year. To keep herself accountable, she posted the results on Instagram.

“I started painting for myself at first as a challenge. Then, it turned into a series, and I started getting commissions and working with other artists, galleries and people from throughout the U.S. — all through Instagram,” she says. “My philosophy is, ‘Just do it and see what happens and what kind of feedback you get.’ That’s how I approach my art.”

When Brunner first took on the challenge, her paintings didn’t have a specific focus. Eventually, she found herself drawn to pictures she’d taken when she was at her parents’ cottage on Middle Bass Island. It was the perfect inspiration for her impressionist painting style.

Using acrylic paint, which dries easily and is good for layering, every painting Brunner creates starts with an underpainting — usually a base color of light pink. For the most part, she doesn’t draw out her work; she layers the paint and mixes colors directly on the canvas.

“A lot of what I do is intuitive painting,” she says, adding that she does a lot of studies in her sketchbook while on the island and then goes back to her studio in Perrysburg to paint them.

“I’ve found it very peaceful to paint from memories of spending summers on the island,” she says.

Her family’s love affair with the islands began with her grandparents, who owned a small, single-story cottage on South Bass Island. When Brunner’s father, Bob St. John, got married he wanted the same kind of summer for his family.

Bob and his wife, Maureen, looked around South Bass Island, but couldn’t find anything in their price range. The problem on Kelleys Island was that all of the properties they liked had a road separating them from the water. When the couple visited Middle Bass Island, they found a beautiful piece of lakefront property nestled on the north side of the island with a magnificent view of Sugar Island and water as far as the eye could see.

Bob and Maureen purchased the property in 1980, but, with another home they’d bought in Perrysburg, as well as a growing family, they didn’t get the opportunity to start building their island abode until 2010. When

the time came, they considered their options and decided that transporting a prebuilt home to the island would be the best approach.

“There’s some good builders and craftsmen on the island, but it’s hard to book them to do a large house,” Bob says, adding that the biggest hurdle was figuring out how to get the house on the ferry, which can accommodate a width of only about 15 feet.

“That limited the size the house could be,” Bob says, explaining that the house came over in six sections. Once the house made it to the island, contractors dug the foundation, joined the two first-floor pieces and used a crane to lift and bolt the second floor and roof together.

“Watching them build the house was amazing,” he says. “It was a neat way to build a house.”

Bob and Maureen spend about 85% of spring, summer and fall on the island, enjoying time with family and friends and taking advantage of their slice of paradise.

“It’s so quiet and serene and just a nice place to be. If you like nature and the outdoors, you’ll love Middle Bass,” Bob says, noting the variety of wildlife, including white pelicans, tundra swans, beavers and even deer that can be seen swimming between the islands. Among their favorite activities are fishing and paddleboarding around Sugar Island.

“People ask me what inspires me to paint all of these coastal scenes, and they are surprised when they find out that I’m from Ohio and that’s what I see from the island.”

KARIN MCKENNA

HOME ON THE LAKE: AREA EXPERTS OFFER

WHEN IT COMES TO TRENDS in new homes, even people who don’t live on the lake want to embrace parts of the lifestyle.

Lauren Glinn, sales manager for Wayne Homes, says the company has introduced a “Lake Collection” that’s popular not just in builds along the Lake Erie shore, but also in inland markets. Exterior trim on Lake Collection homes includes arched gable brackets and shake siding — hallmarks of many waterfront homes. Together, she says, these touches offer a more weathered look to give it more dimension.

The Lake Collection features four different floor plans, each with a narrower house

Everything, it turns out, is better when you’re surrounded by water.

“The same kind of chores that seem like work at home — mowing the grass and trimming the bushes — they don’t seem like work on the island,” Bob says.

Brunner grew up visiting the Lake Erie Islands just as her father did. But once her dad built their own place, she started spending entire summers on the island.

“It’s definitely a getaway,” she says. “You look out on Lake Erie, and there’s all of these different islands, and they each have their own story and history.”

Brunner’s two daughters (Isla, 12, and Immy, 8) love visiting Middle Bass, too. They’ve made friends with other children on the island and spend their days swimming, kayaking, searching for beach glass and taking a walk to the Middle Bass General Store to get candy.

“It such a great environment,” Brunner says, noting that the new marina in the state park is one of the nicest on the lake.

One day, Brunner and her husband, Rob, were taking a walk on the island and found a waterfront lot, with a dock, for sale. In May

designed to fit on a lakefront lot — or a smaller lot within a city. Many of the floor plans include a great room with big windows and in, some instances, a balcony.

Bucky Kopf of Kopf Builders is offering new homes in his Harbor’s Edge development at the Catawba Island Club, including homes with golf course views.

Many of the flourishes he is seeing are in the bath, including large showers with ornate fixtures, decorative tile work and heated floors.

Clare Opfer of S&H Blinds and Floors, meanwhile, notes that homeowners are paying more attention to backsplashes in both kitchens and bathrooms. And luxury vinyl

2021, they purchased the property and are now in the process of building their own summer escape — a 1,700-square-foot ranch next to historic houses in the Middle Bass Club. To give the cottage character and blend in with other homes in the area, the exterior will be light gray, with thick white trim around the windows and doors, and cedar shake accents. The interior will be light and airy with light wood floors. The primary bedroom will include a space facing the lake for Brunner to paint.

Brunner, who lives about an hour away in Perrysburg, says a lot of people don’t truly understand the treasure we have.

“The beauty of it and being on that ferry coming over is peaceful in itself. It’s part of the journey,” she says, adding that there’s a special essence about Middle Bass Island that she hopes to capture at her cottage.

“We will decorate with neutrals, with pops of blues, whites and greens through art and accent pieces. I am hoping to create a couple of pieces specifically for the home,” she says. “Once our house is built, we’ll be able to share the island with our friends and have more people experience it.”

flooring is always popular in homes that are subjected to sandy feet, large lakeside gatherings — or even just the reality of daily life with kids or dogs.

Of course, the supply chain issues that have been an issue over the past three years haven’t entirely gone away, and Kopf, who also offers high-end developments in his hometown of Avon Lake, Ohio, says there’s still a worker shortage.

That’s why it’s important to start planning as soon as possible, Opfer says.

“It’s never too early to get going,” she says. “I’d rather wait for you than have you waiting for us.”

KARIN MCKENNA

tourchautauqua.com - 866-908-4569

Chautauqua:

YOUR SUMMER VACATION DESTINATION

Request a free travel guide today and plan your adventure! Summer fun is closer than you think. This summer take a Western NY road trip to the Chautauqua-Lake Erie Region. Discover the unrivaled natural beauty of our many lakes, waterways and trails as well as experience one-of-a-kind cultural attractions. Start planning your vacation today!

Boat Rentals, Sales, Dockage, Storage, Fuel & Showroom, open daily during the season. Chautauqua Marina is a YAMAHA 5 Star Certified Dealer. Mention this ad and receive $25 Off your Pontoon Boat Rental. Fun in the Sun!

104 W. Lake Road, Mayville, NY 14757 716-753-3913 ~ chautauquamarina.com

Come in and browse our selection of wicker furniture, Lee Middleton Dolls, Chautauqua Tees and sweatshirts, Minnetonka moccasins, antiques and new & vintage jewelry. Our baskets make unique gifts. We have a barn full of ways to tell someone you care. Open 10-5 daily thru Labor Day. Call for winter hours.

5252 Rte. 430, Dewittville, NY 14728 716-386-4033 ~ 716-386-4033

Owners of Guppy’s Restaurant & Tavern, Doug and Christy Spegar are providing a totally unique experience! Dine in a ski gondola offering a private new fun way to dine! Scratch food and cocktails will ensure there is something for everyone to enjoy!

4663 Rte. 430, Bemus Point, NY 14701 716-386-4422 ~ guppystavern.com

4. PEEK’N PEAK RESORT

Experience summer at The Peak! Climb through the Aerial Adventure Ropes Course, golf on the championship-caliber Upper Course, and relax at the Pool Complex and Serenity Spa. Overnight packages at The Inn and mountainside condos are available!

1405 Olde Road, Clymer, NY 14724 716-355-4141 ~ pknpk.com

A friendly meeting place on Chautauqua Lake, Webb’s Captain’s Table specializes in locally sourced, classic American cuisine with indoor and outdoor seating, as well as an upscale carryout service featuring grab-and-go foods, gourmet coffee and curbside or boatside pickup. 115 W. Lake Road, Mayville, NY 14757 716-753-3960 ~ webbscaptainstable.com

1. CHAUTAUQUA MARINA BOAT RENTALS & SALES

2. THE FARM BELL

3. GUPPY’S RESTAURANT & TAVERN

5. WEBB’S CAPTAIN’S TABLE RESTAURANT

ADVENTURES All Year

Plan an entire year around Western New York and Erie, Pennsylvania’s hundreds of outdoor activities and indoor attractions.

By Rachel Hagenbaugh

Escape to Erie

Don’t let the miles of magnificent waterfront fool you — Lake Erie is a year-round destination filled with exciting activities for all ages. Rain, snow or sunshine, the region offers a variety of ways to celebrate the good life on a great lake, from festivals, beaches and trails galore to dozens of museums, shops and restaurants featuring unforgettable views and experiences.

Outdoor Adventures

“A lot of people assume that, because we’re just around the lake, we’re a seasonal destination. We have four seasons of outdoor recreation and indoor activities,” says Christine Temple, director of communications for VisitErie, highlighting Presque Isle State Park, the city’s top attraction featuring 7 miles of beaches perfect for bird watching, fishing, hiking, swimming and biking. “There’s a lot to do year-round, and it separates us from a lot of

other areas. Most of them are just beaches, but Presque Isle State Park offers so much more.”

When it comes to the outdoors, Asbury Woods’ (asburywoods.org) 200+ acres of fields, forests and wetlands, 5 miles of trails, awardwinning environmental education center and plethora of programs and festivals offer all kinds of year-round fun, from hiking and biking in the spring, summer and fall to crosscountry skiing and snowshoeing in the winter.

During warmer weather, climb aboard the Lady Kate and venture onto the open waters during Erie’s only narrated sightseeing cruise (piboattours.com), offering unique views of the city’s skyline, historic lighthouses, nature preserves and more. Or, discover more than 100 rides, slides and other attractions at Waldameer & Water World (waldameer.com) — Erie’s destination for family fun for more than 125 years.

Waldameer

Asbury Woods COURTESY ASHBURY WOODS, WALDAMEER

Indoor Attractions

If cooler weather is keeping you indoors, take the kids to Splash Lagoon (splashlagoon. com), an indoor water park resort, or Play Port Arcade & Family Fun Center (playporterie.com), where more than 100 video arcade games, laser tag and virtual reality games will keep everyone busy for hours. For some adults-only gaming and drinks, enjoy BYOB nights every Friday from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.

When rain delays your plans, head indoors to browse the city’s local shops, where you’re sure to find a special treat or unique gift for friends or family. The Shops at the Colony, on West 8th Street, offers more than a dozen locally owned shops specializing in everything

from popcorn, embroidery and toys to jewelry, clothing, coffee, yarn and more.

Youngsters and kids-at-heart will appreciate the three floors of fun available at Actiontoyman (actiontoyman.com), which specializes in action figures, comics and collectibles. Pick out a piece of Presque Isle-inspired pottery or sign up to make your own masterpiece during a class at Allen Stoneware Gallery (allenstonewaregallery.com). For handcrafted gifts from local and regional makers, visit Epiphany’s Emporium. At Glass Growers Gallery (glassgrowersgallery.com), discover paintings, photography, sculptures, jewelry, pottery, glassware and more. For more local flare, don’t miss Painted Finch Gallery (paintedfinchgallery.com) or Presque Isle Gallery &

Glass Growers Gallery

Painted Finch Gallery

Actiontoyman

COURTESY

GLASS GROWERS GALLERY, PAINTED FINCH GALLERY, ACTIONTOYMAN

Gifts (presqueislegalleryandgifts.com), which, in addition to showcasing area artists, offers souvenirs and apparel.

Dine Any Day

Regardless of the season, dine with a beautiful backdrop at waterfront destinations that include Smugglers Wharf, a pirate-themed seafood restaurant; Bayfront Grille, an upscale hotel eatery featuring breakfast, lunch and dinner with American fare; Sloppy Duck Saloon (sloppyducksaloon.com), an alehouse featuring live bands and pub grub; Shoreline Bar and Grille, a cocktail bar and eatery with dishes made from fresh, regional ingredients;

or Bay House Oyster Bar & Restaurant (bayhousepier6.com), a Sunday brunch hot spot and the city’s only fresh oyster bar and Argentine grill.

“A lot of people say Erie has all of the amenities of a large city packed into a small-town feel,” Temple says. “The atmosphere is casual chic. We’re laid back, but we also have some really upscale attractions.”

The Wright Stuff

The newest Frank Lloyd Wright attraction can be found at the Hagen History Center in

Erie, where the famous architect’s office has been meticulously reconstructed.

The office originally was on the second floor of a building in San Francisco, where it was used from 1951 until Wright’s death in 1959. It was sold to a collector, spending years (behind glass) at the Carnegie Museum of Art in Pittsburgh before finding a home in Erie (where it’s open for the public to walk through).

Known for its “hands on” approach, the Hagen History Center (eriehistory.org) includes the Watson-Curtze Mansion, built in 1891, boasting 12 fireplaces and a ballroom.

Hagen History Center

Sloppy Duck Saloon SLOPPY DUCK SALOON: TREVOR VOGT OF VOGT PRO MEDIA, COURTESY HAGEN HISTORY CENTER

1. Oliver’s Rooftop Restaurant & Bar

Panoramic views and delicious cuisine are waiting for you at Oliver’s Rooftop, located atop the Hampton Inn & Suites on Erie’s Bayfront! Come and enjoy the views of Presque Isle Bay, the Bicentennial Tower and the historic US Brig Niagara

130 E. FRONT ST. · ERIE, PA 16507 · 814-920-9666 · OLIVERSROOFTOP.COM

2. Relish // Take home a TREASURE from the lake!

At Relish, we believe that jewelry should complement the wearer’s unique personal brand. We don’t do ordinary, and we don’t do cookie cutter. Our sweet spot is custom, handmade beach glass jewelry and art created by skilled metalsmiths. Each piece is a unique work of art unlike any other.

3835 W. 12TH ST. · ERIE, PA 16505 · 814-836-1827 · RELISHINC.COM

3. Splash Lagoon Indoor Water Park Resort

Overnight packages and day passes available at SplashLagoon.com. Enjoy weatherproof fun at Splash Lagoon, where it’s always 84 degrees! Get drenched by the coconut bucket on our new tree house, swirl down slides, ride the surf machine, splash in our massive wave pool and show off your gaming skills on over 100 games in the arcade!

8091 PEACH ST. · ERIE, PA 16509 · 1-866-3-SPLASH · SPLASHLAGOON.COM

4. Visit the newest Frank Lloyd Wright Museum in Erie, PA.

Wright’s San Francisco office is reconstructed at the Hagen History Center, easily accessible from Interstates 90 and 79. It’s a perfect stop between the Martin House in Buffalo, NY, and Fallingwater in the Laurel Highlands, PA. – all part of the Great Wright Road Trip.

356 W. 6TH ST. · ERIE, PA 16507 · 1-814-454-1813 · ERIEHISTORY.ORG

Wander through Western New

York

From Peek’n Peak Resort in Clymer to Holiday Valley Resort in Ellicottville and many waterfront attractions along Lake Erie and Chautauqua Lake, Western New York is full of year-round fun.

Calling All to Chautauqua Lake

“The Chautauqua/Lake Erie region is a unique destination because it has a long history of visitors coming to the area for a variety of reasons, such as outdoor adventures, including lakes, waterways, trails, snow sports and cultural attractions,” says Victoria Burch of the Chautauqua County Visitors Bureau.

Chautauqua Institution’s (chq.org) nineweek summer season brings visitors back year after year for intellectual and spiritual growth and renewal. Bemus Point, Jamestown, Mayville and Lakewood are popular destinations for visitors looking for quaint shops, lakeside restaurants and entertainment, including the National Comedy Center (comedycenter.org), Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum (lucy-desi. com) and Mulligans on Fairmount (mulligansonfairmount.com), a one-stop shop for virtual reality fun and arcade gaming.

When clear skies prevail, book a tour at One Fine Day Boat Charter (onefinedaychq. com) with Captain Paul Johnson, a lifelong Chautauqua Lake boater and knowledgeable guide, aboard a piece of local history — a fully restored 1966 28-foot twin-engine, semi-enclosed Lyman “Islander” day cruiser.

“During the summer, I love to spend time on the lake boating and fishing. After a long day out on the lake, I like to head to local restaurants for dinner, drinks and live music,”

Burch says. “During fall and spring, I like enjoying the outdoors on a hike to see the changing leaves. Afterward, I like to grab a glass of wine from Lake Erie Wine Country to pair with a cheeseboard.”

Nearby, Peek’n Peak Resort (pknpk.com) may be known for its winter activities, but, make no mistake, it’s also a haven of summer fun. Check out this year-round destination to discover an aerial adventure course featuring 69 obstacles, dueling ziplines with majestic views of the mountains, an 18-hole miniature golf course, indoor/outdoor pool and hot tub area and chairlift rides.

Everything in Ellicottville

In Ellicottville, four seasons of recreational activities at Holiday Valley Resort (holidayvalley.com) are anchored by more than 15 local shops and 20 cafes and restaurants. Visit West Rose (westrose.restaurant), a local favorite brunch spot, for seasonal inspired cuisine. Or, make your way to The Banq Cocktails and Lounge, which combines a creative, classy atmosphere with exotic cocktails, a generous whiskey selection and small plates. The destination also is home to two breweries, two distilleries, a winery and several annual events, including a Winter Carnival, Summer Music Festival, Fall Festival and more.

“We have outdoor adventures during all seasons, including skiing, snowboarding and tubing in the winter and mountain biking and hiking during the summer,” says Jessica Wallace, business development manager for the Ellicottville Chamber of Commerce. “When the snow melts, Holiday Valley transforms into an adventure golf resort. It’s perfect for families looking for a summer vacation or couples looking for a fall weekend getaway.”

For Nature Lovers

The Roger Tory Peterson Institute (rtpi. org) in Jamestown, New York, is a place to appreciate nature — and to experience it.

The first half of the equation can be done at two new exhibits running through June 11: Hope is the Thing with Feathers: Contemporary Women Nature Artists includes work by five women whose art explores the powerful and fragile nature of birds and the ecosystems in which they live. Alex Warnick: The Art of Observation features work by Alex Warnick, the institute’s inaugural artist-inresidence. “I’m very excited for our visitor to learn about the important work being made by contemporary nature artists,” says institute curator Maria Ferguson.

For the second half, the institute boasts trails through 27 acres of hemlock forest, woodlands, pollinator meadows and pollinator gardens.

Holiday Valley

West Rose

One Fine Day Boat Charter COURTESY HOLIDAY VALLEY RESORT, WEST ROSE, ONE FINE DAY BOAT CHARTER

Essence of Erie County

Along the lakeshore, Evangola State Park in Irving is a popular, pet-friendly, 733-acre park that welcomes campers to enjoy a serene waterfront experience complete with hiking, swimming, a beach, playground, fishing pond and disc golf. While you’re there, don’t miss Seneca Gaming & Entertainment (senecagames.com), home to more than 650 video gaming machines, or Aunt Millie’s Family Restaurant and Bakery (auntmilliesrestaurant.com) for a delicious homemade breakfast, lunch, dinner or dessert.

As you make your way north, plan a visit to Frank Lloyd Wright’s Graycliff (franklloydwright.org), the esteemed architect’s summer home featuring unobstructed views of Lake Erie. On your way to Buffalo, a stop in Hamburg is a must. Here, Hamburg Beach, Hamburg Gaming (hamburggaming.com) and waterfront restaurants that include The Public House on the Lake (publichousebuffalo.com), Lucia’s on the Lake (luciasonthelake.com) and Hoak’s Restaurant (hoaksrestaurant.com) provide several ways to enjoy the region during any season.

Bustling Downtown Buffalo

Connect to the natural world regardless of the weather at Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens (buffalogardens.com), a living museum that welcomes visitors year-round with indoor greenhouses, outdoor gardens, an art gallery, enchanting winter activities, spring and summer blooms and kids’ workshops.

When it comes to embracing lake life, little compares to Buffalo’s Canalside (buffalowaterfront.com), a haven for hundreds of yearround activities and events, from children’s story time and craft brewery festivals to charity walks and runs, concerts and history tours.

“Canalside brings all of Western New York together and is a symbol of our community’s identity,” says Michael Spong, business development manager for Buffalo Waterfront. “In the midst of a bustling downtown is this oasis for families and friends to take part in various activities year-round. In the summer, guests can access the water with water bikes, kayaking, various themed or historical boat tours, relax at our beer garden and listen to music or play trivia. In the winter, strap on a pair of skates and hit New York state’s largest outdoor ice rink on the historical Erie Canal or take a spin on the ice bikes, ice bumper cars or curling.”

Frank Lloyd Wright through

PHOTO: Chris Kalisiak

PHOTO: Matthew Digati

Buffalo Canalside COURTESY BUFFALO CANALSIDE

Lakeside, Ohio

Lakeside Chautauqua, which celebrates its 150th anniversary this summer, is wellknown for its leisure activities. Even today, the resort on the banks of Lake Erie in Northwest Ohio features shuffleboard, tennis, basketball, miniature golf and — the latest craze — pickleball.

In the early 1900s, it also had four roque courts. Roque, at one point grandiosely called “the sport of the century,” was a combination of billiards and croquet (which inspired its name).

But unlike croquet, which was played on grass, roque was played on hard 30-by-60-foot courts, with a lip that encouraged bank shots. Roque balls were rubber, not wooden like croquet balls of the time, and the mallets were shorter.

In 1899, rules were standardized, as was its new name. Roque soon found a home at many Chautauqua resorts, which encouraged physical activity as well as intellectual, artistic and spiritual growth, providing both mental stimulation and physical activity.

Roque even made an appearance in the Olympics, in the 1904 Games in St. Louis, but found its

greatest popularity between the world wars, when courts were built seemingly everywhere (in some instances, as public works projects during the Great Depression). Harpo Marx even had a rooftop court.

The Lakeside courts — touted by the Sandusky Register in 1941 as some of the nation’s finest — were always busy, hosting recreational tournaments as well as regional tournaments sanctioned by the American Roque League, which oversaw competitive roque throughout the country.

Ultimately, the sport fell out of favor, and by 1957, the Spokesman-Review in Washington state declared, “We have not even heard of roque, let alone play it.”

The game made a brief but important cameo in Stephen King’s novel “The Shining” (The Overlook Hotel has the best roque courts in America, and a roque mallet was Jack’s weapon of choice in the book).

It’s still played in some areas, but it’s mostly a forgotten game.

Vince Guerrieri

—

Dick Miller and Charles Wolfe III play roque in 1942 in Lakeside.

From the moment Wayne Homes went into business back in 1973, the idea was to make building a home more possible for more people. To offer more choices. And more quality. Now we’re celebrating our 50th birthday by including a special bonus on each new home — all year long. So after 50 years of giving our customers more, we’re giving them, well, a little more.