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Welcome to the July "Explore" Issue

When you hear the word explore, your mind likely jumps to grand adventures and catching flights. But exploration doesn't always require a passport. Sometimes, it is simply about taking an intentional drive down a new road, changing your perspective, or investing in your future. This month, we invite you to do both. Local Escapes & Living History

If you are looking for a perfect summer getaway, a short, worthwhile drive is all it takes. Head west toward the Niagara region to experience world-class theater at the renowned Shaw Festival in Niagara-on-the-Lake, combined with an incredible array of boutique wineries and cideries bridging both sides of the border.

Closer to home, history is being unveiled in vivid color. The volunteers at Mural Mania have helped create the longest mural trail in the world, with their artwork stretching 75 miles from Fairport to Syracuse. These public canvases do far more than beautify our walls; they celebrate our regional roots and invite both young and old to engage with the stories of towns like Lyons, Williamson, and downtown Rochester. Fresh Eyes & New Roots

Local residents often take our beautiful landscapes and distinct four seasons for granted. But for newlyweds Bayley and Liz Shipley, an exploration of the entire U.S. pointed them squarely away from Austin, Texas, and straight to Rochester. After a year of living in a historic Penfield farmhouse, their enthusiasm even drew their parents to migrate north. Read their story to rediscover the charming energy of our community through the eyes of those who uniquely chose to call it home.

Investing in Your Healthspan

Finally, we invite you to explore your personal future of health. True wellness is about expanding your "healthspan"—the years you remain active and independent. Drawing inspiration from the world's "blue zones," local experts weigh in on how to foster longevity right here at home:

• Fitness: Austyn Affronti explains why strength training after age 50 is your ultimate "suit of armor" for functional independence.

• Nutrition: Dietitian Eileen Blakely shares tips on countering muscle loss, staying hydrated, and the health benefits of sharing meals.

• Medicine: Dr. Robert Caifano highlights the shift toward personalized medicine, expanding diagnostics and removing appointment time limits. What are you exploring this month? Whether it’s a new trail, a local theater production, a historic mural, or a new path toward a healthier tomorrow, we hope this issue inspires you to take the first step.

BETTY DOLCE, PUBLISHER

@ROCCITYLIFESTYLE

July 2026

PUBLISHER

Betty Dolce | betty.dolce@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Katrina M. Randall | katrina.randall@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Marie Gillette

Scott Gudell | sgudell@frontier.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Ashley Fosdick | amf00275@sjfc.edu

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Paul Lossowski

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Mary Albers

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

Proverbs 3:5-6

•Ceramic

•Protection

•Color

•Printed

•Paintless

•Window

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WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN JULY

city scene

1-4: Embrace Your Sisters Tea at Two Fashion Show, Casa Larga on May 3. 5-7: Rochester’s Jazz Escape at The Duke, May 1-2

TIM WILSON

RONALD PARKER

business monthly

Rochester Music Hall of Fame Finds a New Home

Beginning April 11, 2027, the Rochester Music Hall of Fame (RMHF) will bring its annual Induction Concert and Ceremony to the newly renovated West Herr Auditorium Theatre. The move is part of a growing collaboration between the RMHF and the Rochester Broadway Theater League, which is transforming the venue into a regional performing arts hub. The theater will also provide permanent exhibit space for the Hall of Fame.

Re:Gen Rising Celebrates Rochester's Next Generation of Leaders

The Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce honored 20 outstanding professionals at its inaugural Re:Gen Rising ceremony on June 24, celebrating changemakers aged 25–40 who are redefining innovation, collaboration, and leadership across the region. An evolution of the longtime IGNITE Awards, Re:Gen Rising recognized honorees from across sectors, from entrepreneurs and nonprofits to corporate leaders, selected based on innovation, impact, and future vision.

Designer Kitchens is Now Maison Kitchen Cabinetry by DK

Designer Kitchens, at 2157 Penfield Road, is rebranding to Maison Kitchen Cabinetry, led by owner and designer Mark Fisher, who brings over 25 years of experience in architecture and design. Maison Kitchen Cabinetry places a greater emphasis on supplying quality, customizable kitchen cabinetry made in the USA, available in a range of styles and price points to fit any budget. https:// maisonkitchencabinetry.com/, 585-789-0335, mark@ourdesignerkitchen.com

Rochester, Ready To Glow?

FROM AUSTIN, WITH LOVE, ROCHESTER

ONE MOVE, TWO FAMILIES, AND A ROCHESTER LOVE STORY

ARTICLE BY KATRINA M. RANDALL PHOTOGRAPHY BY PAUL LOSSOWSKI; SUBMITTED

Rochesterians complain about winter. We complain about the cold, the snow, the bad roads, the sleet, the slush, the ice, and the gray, seemingly endless days. So you wouldn't expect four transplants from Austin, Texas, to survive this past season’s frigid Rochester winter and come away agreeing: Rochester in winter is like living inside a snowglobe.

From left to right, Christina Shipley, Liz Shipley, Bayley Shipley, Jim Curtin

“Christmas just feels so much more special up here,” says Bayley Shipley. “It feels like you get the essence of what things are supposed to be.” Of course, winter isn’t the only season here in Western New York—and it’s definitely not the reason Shipley and his wife, Liz, decided to move here in the first place two Novembers ago.

The first night they moved into their new apartment back in Austin, a homeless woman walked in their front door uninvited and asked for a tarp. It was a small moment, but it crystallized for them that they were ready for a different pace of life. When friends moved to Rochester, it put the city on their radar, and after a lot of research the region's pull proved hard to resist.

When Shipley shared a Zillow link to a farmhouse in Penfield being sold by an interior designer, it felt like kismet. "It was truly a culmination of everything I wanted for me, Bayley, and our future," says Liz. Not only is the house historical with modern touches, it came with eight chickens. Now, Liz is ready for goats.

“We just really like Rochester; it’s charming,” Shipley adds, noting how even in September the region is still green, something they both appreciate after years in a city they say is most often the color brown from the heat.

Back in Austin, Shipley's mom, Christina Shipley, and Liz's dad, Jim Curtin, were each considering their options. "When he [Bayley] bought the house, I wasn't picturing moving here," says Christina. But after several visits, she was won over by the beauty of the region and its reasonably-priced housing. With the possibility of grandchildren on the horizon and retirement coming into focus, she started looking, and landed on what she calls a "botanical garden property" in the Perinton-East Rochester area.

When Christina told Shipley she wanted to move, he was a little nervous. "My mom's just like a socialite," he says. "When she said 'I want to move to Rochester,' I wasn't sure she was going to like it. She's lived in Austin for a long time, and she has so many friends."

Although it was hard leaving those friends behind, Christina embraced the move, finding a spot in Schoen Place in Pittsford to open her boutique, Maison & Bouquet, as a semi-retirement endeavor and a way to immerse herself in the community. "It was definitely a big life change. But the people are so nice, and they genuinely care about who you are and where you’re from. They ask me all the time why I moved, versus just small talk.” The changing seasons, reasonable prices, and festivity of the holidays have only sweetened the deal.

It was a little different for Curtin. While Christina is fiercely independent, Curtain was still settled in the house Liz grew up in, his grown kids scattered across the country. “My dad is a man of a habit. He’s very much a routine person,” Liz says, adding that the family encouraged him to make the move.

For Curtin, who has moved around a lot in his life and has experienced both cold New England winters and the Austin heat, his initial reaction to Liz's move was simple: why? But when he visited and traversed Letchworth, the beach, and Lake Ontario, the outdoorsman was quickly won over. “When I visited last summer, I said, ‘I think I’ll move up here,’” he says. “It’s a little bit counterdirectional, counterintuitive. Most people move south at 65. But there’s so much beauty here, so much to enjoy—I love it. I feel like I’ve found a little oasis.” Another bonus? His dog loves the cold, so now she can walk a full mile without risking heat exhaustion.

Like Shipley, Christina, and Liz, Curtin believes Rochester is having a rebirth of sorts. “It’s got this beautiful energy to it. I’ve only been here five months now. I love having my daughter and son-in-law close by. Christina is probably five minutes away from me.”

As self-professed foodies, the four often went out together and shared meals back in Austin. The same is true here. They see each other at least once a week, going to restaurants, playing board games, sharing Sunday Italian dinners, and watching NCIS together. "We used to do that in Austin. Now we get to go to each other's houses," Christina says.

Like proud parents themselves, Shipley and Liz are happy to see their parents thriving. While Curtin explores the great outdoors with his dog and meets his neighbors, Christina is playing pickleball, running her shop, and hosting dinners for friends.

“It’s a little bit counter-directional, counterintuitive. Most people move south at 65. But there’s so much beauty here, so much to enjoy—I love it. I feel like I’ve found a little oasis.”

Since moving, they've built a roster of go-to spots: Cure, a French restaurant in the Public Market; Redd Wood on Monroe Avenue (which makes a mean martini); Roux on Park Avenue; and Bonnie & Clyde in Fairport. As for what they miss, Liz and Shipley say it's a decent baked potato. In Austin, they're a dining staple, and apparently they grow much larger there than here. They also miss the convenience of direct flights, harder to come by from a smaller regional airport.

For Christina, it's Austin's nightlife, which runs later than what downtown Rochester typically offers. But the friendly people, the abundance of local events, lighter traffic, and the glory of four distinct seasons give them plenty to love, including the slower pace of it all. And for Curtin, there's one more perk: He can leave his dog with the kids when he travels, and they can do the same.

As Shipley and Liz look forward from their farmhouse in Penfield, more animals are on the horizon. But first, it's “garden summer.” The couple, who both work remotely, want to get into the dirt, leave their phones inside, and root themselves a little deeper in the community and region they chose to call home.

"Rochester has such vibes that old Austin had," says Liz. "It's like it's growing really quickly but still keeping to its heart."

ARTICLE BY MARIE GILLETTE PHOTOGRAPHY SUBMITTED

FITNESS, Nutrition, MEDICINE

Exploring Wellness As We Age

The idea of “healthy aging” has evolved far beyond simply adding years to life. Increasingly, researchers, physicians, fitness professionals, and nutrition experts focus on “healthspan,” the number of years people remain active, independent, and healthy as they age.

Interest in longevity has grown alongside global fascination with “blue zones,” regions where statistically high numbers of people live into their 90s and 100s. Researchers studying communities in Okinawa, Japan; Sardinia, Italy; Ikaria, Greece; Nicoya, Costa Rica; and Loma Linda, California, have identified common threads among long-lived populations: regular movement, plant-forward diets, strong social connections, purposeful living, and low levels of chronic disease.

Recent reviews published in The Gerontologist, Aging and Disease, and other journals examine the scientific validity and lifestyle patterns associated with blue zones, while emphasizing that longevity is influenced by a combination of environment, activity, nutrition, and preventive healthcare.

While Rochester and the Finger Lakes are far from a formal blue zone, local experts say the same principles can be applied close to home.

Fitness After 50: Building Strength for Longevity

For Austyn Affronti, owner of Affronti Fitness in Pittsford, longevity begins with strength. “Fitness and exercise is an opportunity to put our bodies in a controlled stress situation to make it more durable, more resilient, (and) tolerant to stresses we experience in real life,” he says.

Affronti opened his studio in 2011 with a specific focus on fitness for adults over 50. Rather than emphasizing aesthetics or intense gym culture, Affronti Fitness centers on functional movement, injury prevention, and helping older adults maintain independence and mobility.

“Before 50, you can get away with a lot more,” Affronti explains. “After 50, your hormones function less efficiently, you recover from injury slower, you may generally move less in life. Lifestyle tends to be different than in your 20s and 30s, so you need to be more disciplined, more strategic in how you work out.”

His philosophy strongly emphasizes weight training as people age. “Muscle is the secret weapon,” he says. “It supports our metabolism, keeps our skin tight, helps our bodies function and function well, helps our hormones, and protects joints from injury. Your muscle is your suit of armor.”

Affronti compares resistance training to preparing the body for everyday life. Rather than spending hours repeating motions on cardio equipment, he encourages movements that mimic real-world actions—lifting, carrying, balancing, and reaching. “Train the body, train the muscles, then function and form will be better,” he says.

Recent research supports that approach. A 2026 study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that maintaining fitness in midlife was associated with both longer lifespan and longer “healthspan,” delaying chronic illnesses such as cardiovascular disease and cancer.

Affronti also stresses what he calls the “mind-muscle connection,” explaining, “You shouldn’t just go through the motions. You should lift with intention. Focus on the muscles you want to strengthen.”

At Affronti Fitness, clients begin with the studio’s “Learn to Live” and “Learn to Lift” programs, designed to help participants understand how their bodies move and how to train safely and effectively. “By slowing down execution, focusing on timing to work the muscles, you’ll reduce the risk of injury,” he explains.

His advice for adults over 50 is to not be afraid of resistance training, saying, “If you’re not using heavy enough weight, the body won’t adjust and build the muscle. Don’t be afraid to push yourself.”

Importantly, he notes that men and women benefit from the same foundational approach, saying, “We’re all human, making the same real-life movements. You should be training your body similarly, just adjusting weights according to ability.”

Nutrition and Healthy Aging

While exercise helps maintain strength and mobility, nutrition is equally essential to healthy aging. According to Rochester-based Registered Dietician Eileen Blakely, older adults often require fewer calories overall but greater nutritional value from the foods they consume. “Eat a variety of foods and make every bite count,” she advises.

A major concern with aging is muscle loss, and Blakely notes that protein intake becomes increasingly important after age 50. She explains that maintaining muscle mass is essential for strength, mobility, and independence, and encourages older adults to spread high-quality protein sources throughout the day rather than relying on a single large meal. “Maintaining muscle mass is crucial for strength, mobility, and independence,” Blakely says, adding that consistent protein intake can help counter age-related muscle loss.

“Fitness and exercise is an opportunity to put our bodies in a controlled stress situation to make it more durable, more resilient, tolerant to stresses we experience in real life.”

Blakely says older adults also should be mindful of their hydration for essential body functions. “Aging can put you at increased risk for dehydration,” which then inhibits many essential physiological functions in the human body, including temperature regulation, nutrient and oxygen transportation, digestion, organs, joints, and tissue protection, even maintaining overall cellular health. According to Berkeley Medical Center, since the human body is about 70% water, it’s involved in nearly every bodily function—hence why water is often referred to as “the elixir of life.”

Experts suggest maintaining consistent water intake through both drinks and water-rich foods every day. Increase intake when exercising or doing strenuous activities (hydrate before, during, and after such activity for best regulation), in hot weather, and if you have or are prone to certain health conditions, such as kidney stones, UTIs, and other similar health issues that require increased water intake.

Blakely also emphasizes the social side of nutrition, another theme frequently observed in blue zone communities. “Maintain a regular eating schedule and eat with others, if possible,” she advises. Research by the National Institutes of Health, Oxford Academic, among others, connect eating with others with better nutrition and overall health, including mental health improvements, increased self-care, deepened identity and sense of belonging and purpose, stronger social ties, higher life satisfaction, and potentially significant extended healthspan.

Many blue zone dietary patterns rely heavily on legumes, vegetables, whole grains, olive oil, nuts, and seafood while limiting heavily processed foods and excess sugar. Recent nutritional reviews highlight the potential role of polyphenol-rich foods, including leafy greens, beans, fruits, olive oil, teas, and herbs, in supporting healthy aging and reducing inflammation.

Personalized Medicine and Intentional Longevity

Beyond consistent fitness and nutrition, personalized medical care can help tailor prevention, early detection, and treatment strategies to each individual as they age. Physicians across the country are beginning to shift to more personalized, individual care. Rochester-based internist Dr. Robert Caifano, says healthy aging depends on time, prevention, and individualized care, adding, “I believe your health is a multifaceted lifelong journey, not a single destination. To enjoy the view along the way, you must be willing to take the hike.”

Caifano is shifting his practice toward personalized medicine, a model designed to allow physicians significantly more time with patients than traditional primary care typically permits. He notes that while primary care remains “a very special calling,” modern healthcare systems often restrict appointment time due to staffing shortages, insurance structures, and high patient volumes.

There’s a growing demand for comprehensive diagnostics, preventive care, and stronger physician-patient relationships. That emphasis on prevention aligns closely with emerging longevity research. Scientists studying aging increasingly focus on reducing chronic inflammation, preserving mobility and cognition, and identifying risk factors before serious illness develops.

Wellness as a Lifelong Practice

While there may be no single formula for longevity, experts increasingly agree on several core principles: move consistently, maintain muscle strength, eat nutrient-dense foods, stay socially connected, and prioritize preventative healthcare.

The lessons emerging from blue zone research point toward daily habits that collectively support healthier aging. For local professionals like Affronti, Blakely, and Caifano, wellness after 50 is not about chasing youth but more about preserving quality of life. The goal is not simply to live longer, but to live better longer.

MUR AL MANIA’S LIVING HISTORY TRAIL

ARTICLE BY KATRINA M. RANDALL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY PAUL LOSSOWSKI; SUBMITTED

REMEMBER WALLS THAT

Two centuries of history was unveiled this past spring in vivid color across Marion Elementary School, depicting the scenes, buildings, and people that shaped the town. The effort, led by Lyons-based Mural Mania, is one of the latest historical murals appearing around Wayne County and Rochester-area communities, each one telling the stories of the towns that make up our region.

Mark DeCracker working on a mural

Since its inception in 2007, Mural Mania has completed roughly 40 murals, with artwork in 80% of the Erie Canal towns. According to Mark DeCracker, one of the founders of Mural Mania, the murals run continuously for 75 miles from Fairport to Syracuse and make up the longest mural trail in the world, including communities in Gorham, Lyons, Fairport, Canandaigua, downtown Rochester, Fairhaven, and more.

It started with a single mural. Volunteers coming together to paint the Erie Canal on a trolley bridge, led by Winston Dobbins, a local history enthusiast and business owner. Dobbins believed murals could help a community, but he passed away in 2007 before he could attend the dedication of that first one. His son Noel and DeCracker committed to seeing his dream through, founding the volunteer-run Mural Mania around a simple but meaningful mission: "The preservation of history through community art."

Beyond visual aesthetics, a study published by Science Direct in 2025 reports that murals and street art contribute to local investment, tourism, and community engagement, building on messages that depict local culture and promoting social equity. “We’re always trying to improve our community,” says DeCracker. “It was an incredibly meaningful venture that summer in Lyons.”

Sadly, Noel passed away later that same year, but DeCracker committed to keeping the dream alive, and communities took notice. In June 2025, the annual Pageant of the Bands returned after a six-year hiatus, inspired in part by a Mural Mania piece painted on the exterior of Gorham's Old Mill Restaurant honoring more than 60 years of the pageant's history. For DeCracker, watching a community event come back to life because of a mural is exactly the kind of impact he hoped for.

When DeCracker heard the story of two World War II airmen from North Rose who died in action, he knew there had to be a mural. Dedicated in 2024 at Rose Cemetery, "The Heroes of Rose" remains one of his favorites. "It was probably the most meaningful because their legacy is going to last forever."

Last year In Williamson, the organization created a seven-panel, 1,984-square-foot historical series wrapping around the Thatcher Company building along Route 104, created to celebrate the Wayne County bicentennial. DeCracker painted 2,000 cobblestone rocks alone. Each panel frames a window into the county's history, opening with the first meeting between Jesuits and Native Americans and closing with the present day.

For DeCracker, a self-described history lover with a background in photography, combining history and art

merges the best of both worlds. Though he came to art without formal training, he's learned through the years and leverages his photographer's eye. With 90% of the group's murals historical in nature, he finds it's beneficial to younger audiences as well. "Lots of kids don't dive into history like they used to; we open that book by painting a mural. It has intrigued a lot of people, both young and old, to get inspired by history."

Mural Mania has seen a lot of talent through its almosttwo-decade existence, including McKayla Streber, a recent RIT grad and Farmington resident. She's worked on roughly five murals since joining the organization, with her most recent project being a painted float for the Daughters of the American Revolution parade this summer. Her contribution: the Statue of Liberty set to the backdrop of the American flag next to a bald eagle and the Liberty Bell.

Streber notes that she’s enjoyed connecting with other artists in the area and learning different approaches to painting, but the most significant impact for her is seeing how the murals connect people. Just look on the organization's YouTube channel, and the reveal and dedication for many of the murals is backed by a crowd of people excited to view their community’s history translated into vivid depictions.

“Putting out the murals in communities, especially when it has to do with the historical context of the community, allows people to connect with their town’s history and understand how their communities are operating to that current day. Being able to view a giant art piece like that in public allows you to connect to other people," she says. “You’re most likely surrounded by other people who are viewing the same canvas as you, or it’s in such a public space that other people are also viewing it.”

Whether working with designers or developing concepts with the help of AI, historical accuracy is central to DeCracker's process. He takes that responsibility seriously. If a detail doesn't add up historically, like swimmers in a canal during a February event, he'll work with community representatives to get it right.

For Streber, who doesn’t have a lot of experience applying history to her art, when she doesn’t understand a concept or period of history, she’ll consult with other artists and reach out to town historians to ensure accuracy, “I think it’s really fun to continue to learn about the history of the places we’re painting these murals for. I get to learn about their history, and I get to share that through the artwork,” she says.

To learn more about Mural Mania, visit: https://muralmania.org

CONTINUED >

Photo: Paul Lossowski

The Wayne County bicentennial mural; Photo: Paul Lossowski

MEET THE Guides Behind ROCHESTER’S GREAT Outdoors

Rochester’s Outdoor Guides Aren’t Just Leading Adventures. They’re Building a Culture.

ARTICLE BY MARIE GILLETTE | PHOTOGRAPHY SUBMITTED

The Rochester and Finger Lakes region has quietly become one of New York’s most diverse outdoor recreation corridors, where Great Lakes salmon runs, glacial Finger Lakes, river systems, and canal trails intersect. What makes the region especially dynamic is not just geography, but a network of living, working outdoor professionals who are actively shaping how residents and visitors learn to explore.

FISHING GUIDES: TRADITION, STEWARDSHIP, AND ACCESS

Lindsay Agness has become one of the most visible women in New York fly fishing. A licensed guide since 2011, Agness has spent years teaching women, veterans, and young people about the sport. She does this through Trout Unlimited, wellness programs, and nonprofit outreach initiatives for foster children and disabled military veterans. Her goal is not only to teach technique, but to make the outdoors accessible and restorative to people who may never have considered fly fishing.

Mark Moskal of Summit to Stream Adventures (Watkins Glen) raves about the Finger Lakes’ remarkable ecological diversity, where warm-water, cold-water, shallow, and deep lakes exist within a short drive of one another. A Central New York native with more than 50 years of fishing experience, Moskal combines charter fishing, fly fishing, and kayaking into an immersive guiding approach, emphasizing conservation and a lifelong connection to the water.

That same blend of education and conservation appears in the work of Kurt Hoefig, a Finger Lakes fishing guide. He describes his first encounter of the lakes as “transformative” and now helps others experience that same sense of discovery. His guiding is grounded in sustainability as well, and he teaches clients to think about fisheries as living systems rather than resources to be used.

Lindsay Agness, licensed fly fishing guide since 2011

Ed Erbland of The Outsiders

On Lake Ontario’s eastern edge, expert angler, Captain Brian Neal of Finger Lakes Outfitters specializes in fishing and guided charters on Lake Ontario and Sodus Bay and waterfowl hunting in the Finger Lakes, where long-standing duck migration patterns and lake conditions shape each outing. His work reflects long-standing sporting traditions shaped by changing ecological conditions.

Captain Jared Jones of Wayfound Outdoors says fishing around the Finger Lakes is not rigid but reflective: “It’s a day to breathe. To be present. To remember who you are before life got so loud.” His guiding emphasizes awareness of wind, depth, structure, and seasonal movement, helping participants slow down and build a more intuitive understanding of the environment.

HUMAN-POWERED EXPLORATION

Genesee Waterways Center (GWC) is a Rochester-based nonprofit that has spent more than 30 years connecting people to the Genesee River, Erie Canal, and regional waterways through kayaking, canoeing, rowing, and whitewater paddling. Operating access sites, including Genesee Valley Park and Lock 32, the organization promotes physical health, mental well-being, education, and environmental stewardship through hands-on outdoor experiences. GWC expands access to Rochester’s waterways while fostering appreciation for the region’s 100-mile “blueway” stretching from Lake Ontario to Pennsylvania. South of Rochester, Canadice Lake Outfitters provides access to one of the Finger Lakes’ most protected environments. Canadice Lake is a preserved watershed with limited development and no swimming, camping, or large motorboats, offering quiet paddling, biking, and hiking experiences. The outfitter provides kayak, canoe, paddleboard, and bike rentals, along with guided and self-guided tours.

OUTDOOR ADVENTURE GUIDES HELP FIND YOUR WAY

Bill Waterhouse of Trail Otter (Dansville) has long connected people to the Finger Lakes through hiking and paddling experiences, including current Letchworth and Greenway challenge programs. His advice to adventurers emphasizes preparation and gradual growth: “Always tell someone where you are going and when you’ll return,” and “Dress in layers and expect to be out longer than you think.” He also recommends protecting against ticks with permetherin, investing time finding the right boots, and building from short hikes toward longer backcountry trips.

Randi Lynn Quackenbush of Crescent Moon Outdoors (Trumansburg) combines years of travel experience, both in the U.S. and abroad, with a strong commitment to helping women feel confident outdoors. “As women, we often receive so many messages about our safety in the outdoors and that we should be fearful,” she says,

noting that she focuses her guiding business on an atmosphere of encouragement and skill-building, all designed to reduce barriers to entry, especially for women new to outdoor recreation.

Jeff Klein of Off Grid Adventures (Honeoye Falls) has spent nearly five decades immersed in the outdoors, fishing, hiking, backpacking, snowshoeing, and mountaineering. Much of Klein's guiding work is devoted to helping children and veterans achieve goals. He is an ADK 46er, having completed all 46 traditionally recognized High Peaks of the Adirondacks, but he puts that feat in perspective. That accomplishment, he says, 'doesn't even come close to being there for my son for all of his 46.'" He leads weekly military veterans hikes, helping newcomers experience mountain trails for the first time. His advice: “Leave the woods better than you found them, know your limits, and remember, it’s your hike. If you’re not feeling up to it, don’t do it.”

Cindy Prober (Rushville) approaches guiding through a therapeutic and accessibility-focused lens. An occupational therapist, Prober has spent nearly two decades hiking and backpacking throughout the region and now maintains trails and advocates for safe outdoor access. Inspired by a lifelong connection to the Bristol Hills, she earned her guide license after local Girl Scout troops sought licensed backpacking leadership. Prober is especially passionate about helping people with functional limitations experience wilderness spaces that may otherwise feel inaccessible. Her advice to adventurers: Understand trail systems and seasonal regulations, particularly on mixed-use and private lands, always inform someone of your plans, and always carry the 10 essentials.

Ed Erbland of The Outsiders (Byron) brings a lifelong Adirondack connection to his work as a guide specializing in fly fishing, backpacking, mountaineering, and outfitting. Raised on family camping trips in the Saranac Lakes region, Erbland expanded from hiking and peakbagging into four-season adventure travel, saying “I do most of my adventuring in the Adirondacks because it offers so much while remaining close to home.” His decision to begin guiding grew out of concern for environmental strain from increasing wilderness use. His advice to newcomers is: “Start small, know [your] limits, and make the adventure [your] own… Every outing—and every mistake—is a learning process.”

A SHARED OUTDOOR ETHIC ACROSS THE REGION

The Rochester and Finger Lakes outdoor scene is defined less by any single activity than by the people who make it accessible. Across rivers, lakes, canals, and trails, guides and educators have turned recreation into something larger, a shared culture of stewardship, inclusion, and belonging. As interest grows, that spirit will be what keeps the region welcoming to newcomers and loyal to the land that brought them together.

Bill Waterhouse of Trail Otter

Randi Lynn Quackenbush of Crescent Moon Outdoors

Jeff Klein of Off Grid Adventures

Cindy Prober earned her guide license after local Girl Scout troops sought licensed backpacking leadership

realty report

the Bridge CROSS

Theater, Wine, and Everything in Between

ARTICLE BY SCOTT GUDELL | PHOTOGRAPHY SUBMITTED

When it comes to a day trip or a mini getaway excursion, people in Western New York have numerous choices if they want to combine theater with discovering wine, cider, food, and fun. There’s a nearby option that should be added to your list: Head west to the Niagara Region of Canada. Cross the bridge of your choice, either the Peace Bridge or the Lewiston-Queenston Bridge, and you’re just about there. Once you enter Canada, you can head to the flashy, sensory overload of the Niagara Falls area or go a few miles north to the more serene village of Niagara-on-the Lake (NOTL). Let’s take a right turn and head north.

What Goes Best With Wine? Try Theater With a Splash of Water

NOTL is where the flowing water of the Niagara River meets Lake Ontario. This idyllic town is pristine and exudes old-world charm. There’s an abundance of modern-yetquaint spots to check out, including restaurants, inns, antique shops, and parks. But the ace in the hole for this town of approximately 18,000 people is one of the definitive theater organizations of North America: the Shaw Festival. The festival started in 1962, and the original goal was to present only plays by George Bernard Shaw, but they eventually expanded to include many others. As of 2026, there are three main theaters operating from spring to mid-fall (plus a few winter presentations).

We explored several of the festival's signature venues. What follows is a closer look at each stage and a select production from the current 2026 season.

Jackie Maxwell Studio Theatre

On the same lot as the much larger Festival Theatre, this 237-seat room doubles as a rehearsal space as well as a theater, thus its design is more spartan and exudes a “backstage” vibe. Because of its intimate size, you can literally sit in the first few rows (if you dare) and see the color of the actors’ eyes!

Now Playing: Bernard Shaw’s Heartbreak House (June 20 to Oct. 3)

Royal George Theatre

Dedicated in 1916, this classic 305-seat theater is near numerous restaurants and alluring stores on the town’s main street: Queen Street, which is bursting with countless plants and flowers during peak season. Due to much-needed upkeep, the theater is being renovated. Depending on the construction schedule, it will return by 2029 or sooner.

Now Playing: Anthony Shaffer’s Sleuth (April 2 to Oct. 9) Note: This production was relocated to the Court House Theatre while the Royal George Theatre is under construction.

Festival Theatre

Many early Shaw Festival plays were held at the Old Court Theatre until the 856-seat Festival Theatre debuted in 1973 and has since served as the headliner venue. The modern theater is a smart brick structure and a technically-sophisticated venue where the festival presents large-scale productions, including Broadway-worthy musicals.

Now Playing: Peter Schaffer’s Amadeus (July 8 to Oct. 4)

The Season at a Glance

As with all seasons, the 2026 season spans everything from frantic farce to deep drama. The glossy programs handed out at the start of each show are a treasure, containing background on the author, director, and setting, along with actor bios that offer a glimpse into the collective creativity that defines Shaw. Beyond the main stages, a Spiegel tent hosts cabaret-style performances and several outdoor stages are active throughout the summer. The season closes with two final productions in November and December.

Wine: Before, During, and After the Play

But wait (as they say) there’s more. The entire area has a wealth of things to do beyond the Shaw Fest and has a reputation as one of Canada’s definitive wine regions. There are approximately 40 wineries in the area with others nearby. While many establishments ask you to make a reservation, we showed up day of and were welcomed. The other thing is the fee. While they range from high to low, most charge $25 for a sparse four-wine sample. In addition, at least one winery’s website warned that you can buy a bottle from them and drink on site, but there’s a $10 corkage fee! Finally, the three we visited were flexible and courteous, but do some homework before you go.

Reif Estate Winery, 15608 Niagara Parkway

Once you pull in the driveway of this 125-acre winery, you’ll behold a spacious, opulent tasting room with rich, warm wood everywhere. Welcome to Germany. Although several other wines stood out, the Vinea caught our attention. It’s a rich and elegant port-styled wine with a premium grape-based liqueur that bursts with bright flavors of blackberry, strawberry, and cherry with red licorice notes. As the winery explains: “Cabernet Sauvignon is fortified with brandy and blended with our secret ingredients to create a one-of-a-kind 'spirit' of the vine.”

We sampled a number of wines, with ice wine being one of our favorites. Since Germany was at the forefront of making vibrant ice wines centuries ago, a German winery in Canada such as Reif truly carries on the tradition.

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FUN FACT:

Southbrook Organic Vineyards, 581 Niagara Stone Road

From vast, palatial-styled chateaus straight out of a European storybook to more intimate farm-styled wineries, the look and feel of each venue varies. Designed by Jack Diamond of Diamond and Schmitt Architects, Southbrook is a true architectural standout. The visual contrast from some of the old-world style venues is dramatic. Southbrook is low and to the ground, stealth, elegant and so much more. Once you park, pedestrians cross over a streamline reflecting pool strategically placed so as to capture the glistening rays of the sun during sundown. Inside, a sleek interior dominated by glass blossoms in front of you, giving you a clear view of the vineyard. Tastings were offered in a modern lounge while, in the fair months, there’s a vast outdoor pavilion. We sat outside under a canopied tent with just a slight fall breeze greeting us. Southbrook offers orange wines (skin-fermented white wines), specialties such as Framboise and Cassis, and a variety of other sparkling, whites and reds. Although they sell “old vintage” wines, most available when we visited were from the 1990s to early 2000s. Don’t forget to check the food menu that they serve from Wednesday through Sunday, including the summer pizza charette.

The United States is home to at least 3,000 wineries, with at least one in every state. New York is among the leaders, with thriving wine regions stretching from Long Island in the southeast to the Niagara Trail in the northwest, and everything in between. All told, the Empire State claims an impressive share of the nation’s wineries.

Ravine Vineyard Estate Winery, 1366 York Road

It’s hard to keep up with the number of buildings on the grounds of the various wineries, like Ravine, since many wineries keep growing buildings as well as grapes. As with many other wineries, Ravine started as a family farm (in their case, at least five generations ago). There are a number of rooms you can wander in and out of: a tasting room, a mini deli with to-go items, a pizza-focused dining area, as well as a more formal restaurant area. Our table of choice on this visit was outdoors, right on the edge of the vineyard. A farm-to-table menu is available for lunch and dinner from Thursday to Sunday. And, of course, the various wines are highly recommended!

The Niagara Region for Wine, Beer, Cider and More: The U.S. side of the Niagara River

The Niagara Wine region has approximately two dozen wineries, cideries, and microbreweries but only about a dozen are officially part of the Niagara Wine Trail. As with many wine trails, it’s a great starting point when someone wants to learn more about each region. But for various reasons, many wineries choose not to become members of a trail, which is by no means an indication of quality. It often comes down to a simple business and marketing decision.

Here’s three wineries we visited recently:

Leonard Oakes Estate Winery, 10609 Ridge Road, Medina

One of the closest wineries to Rochester, on the eastern edge of the Niagara region, is Leonard Oakes in Orleans County. The casual tasting room is relatively small and almost feels like you're settling into someone's living room. White wines include riesling classic (a New York specialty) and chardonnay, while reds feature a rich red oakes, vibrant cabernet franc, and their Escape Rosé. They also offer a Steampunk Cider flight with seasonal options, popular enough that four-packs are now available.

Winery at Marjim Manor, 7171 East Lake Road, Appleton

The greeting on the winery’s web page says it best: “What is the difference between a wine and a spirit? At the Winery at Marjim Manor, wine is what you taste; spirits are who you meet.”

Housed in a reputedly haunted building that has gone through a number of changes since the 1800s, the venue is as much an experience as the wine. “As you taste our fruit and grape wines, you will hear the story about the former residents.” Wines to try include Adams Appleberry (a blend of apple and cranberry that’s “not too sweet and not too tart”), as well as gold-medal winners, such as A Slice of Heaven (a sweet apple wine) and Cherry Concerto (sweet cherry). Other wines are made with peaches, plums, and pears. Whether you settle into a chair on the porch or at a table in the expansive outdoor area, open a bottle, add cheese, and relax.

“But for various reasons, many wineries choose not to become members of a trail, which is by no means an indication of quality.”

Spring Lake Winery, 7373 Rochester Road, Lockport NY

The farthest west of the three wineries we visited, Spring Lake, can be discovered by following a short winding side road that dips down from the main road (Route 31) and reveals a storybook setting. The main building houses the tasting room, which stretches out to a timber lodge pavilion as well as an expansive deck hovering over an idyllic 8-acre lake. Toward the eastern edge of the water is a gazebo as well as an inviting garden grove. This winery is one of the top choices in the area for parties, fundraisers, and other events. Some of the must-try wines include their estate-grown riesling, sparkling riesling, and even a tequlia-aged riesling. As for reds, there’s a bourbon-aged syrah as well as a merlot.

A Few More Worth the Stop

There are certainly other area venues in the Niagara region, including Long Cliff Vineyards (Sanborn, NY), which is run by the third generation of the Maison Family. They host a monthly book club with stimulating conversation and (what else) wine. If you want a little bit of everything, visit Becker Farms (Gasport, NY), which celebrated its 130th anniversary in 2024. In addition to the market, Becker offers hand-crafted beers, wines, cider, and food—they even have a playground and a petting zoo.

Don’t forget to grab a bottle of wine from one of your stops. If you make it to the western edge of the region, you’ll be able to settle in, check out Niagara Falls, and open a bottle of your choice.

ARTICLE BY KALI KASPRZYK

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

MAKEUP BY MIKAYLA CRANE

The 10% Target Mindset

Jen Cohen ON THE PRACTICE OF ASKING FOR WHAT YOU WANT

Winnipeg in the winter, and a 17-year-old waits 45 minutes in the cold for Keanu Reeves. Her fingers are numb. She is not there for an autograph. She is there to ask him to appear in her audition tape for MuchMusic, Canada’s MTV. When he finally agrees, she writes her number on a gum wrapper with a borrowed lip liner.

He calls days later.

That 17-year-old was Jen Cohen — fitness expert, host of the Habits & Hustle podcast, and best-selling author. She has built a career on the premise her frostbitten afternoon proved. She calls the practice the 10% Target: 10 attempts at whatever you want most in life.

The premise is simple. Most people never make one attempt. Almost nobody makes two. The math works in favor of the person who keeps going.

The top-rated Habits & Hustle podcast has logged hundreds of conversations with high performers and the people who study what the body does to the mind. Her TEDx talk, The Secret to Getting Anything You Want in Life, has traveled widely inside Fortune 500 sales-training rooms. On the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Cohen sits down to share the working rules that are the foundation of her latest book, Bigger, Better, Bolder.

“You have to be the CEO of your own life.”

FEATURING JEN COHEN

Discover the full 10% Target Mindset framework.

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MAKE TEN ATTEMPTS

The door opens, or another door does. The unmade attempt and the refused one leave you in the same place — except one of them teaches you something.

STACK THE DECK

Cohen frames her habits as a wager: How do I stack the deck so I win more than I lose? The workout happens first, and the food decisions follow. The email follow-up gets sent, and the answer arrives. The choices compound in a single direction.

DISCIPLINE IS A PRACTICED SKILL, NOT AN INHERITANCE

No one is born with it. The people who look disciplined are running a routine they have rehearsed long enough that it no longer feels like effort. The reps are the skill. Miss them, and the skill fades, the same as any other.

SELF-TALK ONLY WORKS WHEN THE BODY BACKS IT UP

Confidence does not arrive by repeating the word. It arrives after the body has done the thing — the workout finished, the cold walk endured, the email sent. The mind takes its cues from what the body proves it can do. Talk follows action, not the other way around.

NEVER MISS A MONDAY

The first decision sets the slope of the rest. Skip the Monday workout, and the rest of the week tends to follow. Hold the line on Monday, and the slope tilts the other way.

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

JULY 1ST

Grammy-Affiliated Percussionist Kahlil Kwame Bell Concert

George Eastman Museum, 900 East Avenue | 5:00 PM

Grammy-affiliated percussionist, composer, and producer Kahlil Kwame Bell brings his genre-spanning artistry to the East Lawn. Known for mastering the slapaphone and blending jazz, world music, hip hop, and classical influences, Bell's music is a celebration of cultural unity. Free and open to all. No rain date.

JULY 2ND

RPO Fourth of July Spectacular

CMAC, 3355 Marvin Sands Dr, Canandaigua | 8:00 PM

Celebrate America's birthday under the stars at CMAC with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra. Expect stirring Sousa marches, patriotic anthems, and crowd-pleasing favorites, all culminating in a dazzling fireworks display.

JULY 11TH-12TH

Corn Hill Arts Festival

Corn Hill, Rochester | 10:00 AM

One of Rochester's most beloved summer traditions returns to the nine tree-lined streets of Corn Hill. Hundreds of artists from across the country, plus live music from near and far, make this two-day festival a can't-miss community celebration. Free and open to all.

JULY 17TH-19TH

Canandaigua Art & Music Festival

Downtown Canandaigua | 10:00 AM

Celebrating 36 years, this juried festival lines Main Street with top artists from across the country, selected by professional artists and community leaders. Live music fills Commons Park Stage all three days, spanning bluegrass, rock, jazz, and acoustic singer-songwriters. A true Finger Lakes summer tradition.

JULY 25TH

Steel Rail Revival Music Festival

Downtown Fairport | 11:00 AM

Downtown Fairport transforms into a walkable, village-wide concert experience with 11 stages and dozens of local and regional bands performing across indoor and outdoor venues all day and into the evening. Best of all, every dollar raised benefits the Arc of Monroe and the Pirate Toy Fund.

JULY 25TH-26TH

Lakefront Art Show

Kershaw Park, 155 Lakeshore Drive, Canandaigua | 10:00 AM

Set against the stunning shores of Canandaigua Lake, this juried art show brings together painters, photographers, jewelers, ceramicists, woodworkers, and more for a weekend celebration of regional talent. Browse original works, meet the artists, and enjoy local food vendors.

SCENIC ROUTE

the city, the season, or your own sense of style, bring something beautiful along for the ride.

Restoring A Smile - With Purpose

While esthetics is a major part of her work, Dr. Carranza views it differently than the typical “smile makeover” trend. For her, beauty only matters when function, health, and long-term stability are honored first.

That philosophy is evident in her veneer cases, implant reconstructions, and full-mouth rehabilitations. Patients often come to her after years of avoiding the dentist, ashamed of their smiles or exhausted from failed treatments. What they find instead is someone who listens without judgement.

Meet Dr. Gabriela Carranza, a Board-Certified Prosthodontist with an Implant Fellowship at the University of Rochester’s Eastman Institute of Oral Health. With extensive training in Prosthodontics and implants, Dr. Carranza brings world-class expertise to the Greater Rochester area. With over 15 years of advanced dental education and clinical practice, she is known for her thoughtful patient communication, meticulous planning, and eye for aesthetic harmony. Whether you are facing a complex reconstruction or seeking a subtle enhancement, you’re in exceptionally skilled hands.

Meet Julia, a real patient of Dr. Gabriela Carranza. After restoring her smile with a highly specialized, minimally invasive approach—her confidence was transformed.

“For Julia, I chose a conservative approach because of her age. Although I often use veneers across all front teeth, her natural smile was already beautiful. My goal was to create restorations so seamlessly blended that no one could ever tell which teeth were natural and which were restored. I take great pride in matching a single tooth perfectly within a full natural smile— or delivering a full-mouth reconstruction that looks effortlessly real.”

Visit victorprosthodontics.com to see Julia's full transformation.