In Case You Missed It - Friday Flashback

Penny Carlton • August 29, 2025

Friday Flashback!


Is it just me, or did summer really fly by faster than usual? While we’re not yet in the final week of summer, the arrival of Labor Day weekend and the unmistakable crispness in the air certainly gives that impression!


As we engage in end-of-season picnics, outings, and back-to-school preparations, I encourage you to take a moment to get to know our featured guests from the past week. So, grab a cup of coffee, relax, and meet some of the inspiring individuals who embrace big dreams and cherish family, community, and the beauty of Keuka!


On Monday, we explored The Serenity Garden, a remarkable micro-venue nestled between Tyrone and Watkins Glen. Founded by the mother-daughter duo of Denise and Daneille, this venue beautifully merges rustic charm with subtle elegance in a thoughtfully curated garden environment.


On Tuesday, we had an engaging discussion with Mike and Christina Skelly about their acclaimed smash burger and the evolution of their food truck business, The Smash Wagon. They are truly enjoying life to the fullest and warmly inviting us all to the table to savor every mouthwatering bite of their extraordinary smash burger creations.


On Wednesday, award-winning author Pamela S. Thibodeaux and I launched our online bookstore, Autumn Reads. We’ve traveled across the country to curate a selection featuring some of the finest small press and independent authors in a variety of genres, and we’re thrilled to highlight Keuka Roots' top picks.


Thursday revealed that a piece of the Frontier can be found right here in the Southern Tier, as we discovered Mud Creek Bison Ranch in Savona, NY. Owner Chris Comstock is a visionary in every sense. Picture bison grazing in vast fields, a five-star restaurant, and expansive indoor and outdoor venues accommodating thousands! This weekend, they will even host the APRA Professional Rodeo!


We are excited to support Keuka Sun's End of Summer Photo Contest! You could win a fantastic 2-night getaway at Hickory Hill Campground Resort along with other amazing prizes! Best of all, entering the contest is completely free! I’ll get an exclusive preview of the submitted photos, and I can’t wait to see Keuka through your lens! So grab your camera and submit your entries today—Keuka and its surrounding communities are bursting with breathtaking views!


If you're curious about the weekend's activities, I highly recommend stopping by the Windmill for some indulgent, flavor-packed, creamy fudge from Oh Fudge! The Smash Wagon will be making an appearance at Krooked Tusker Distillery, and the Palettes of Keuka will hold their annual auction showcasing the incredible palette art that has lined the streets of Hammondsport. I’ll be at Mud Creek Bison Ranch, enjoying the rodeo on Saturday! I hope to see you there. and don't forget to take snap those photos and send in your entries!


I’ll be back on Monday. Have a wonderful holiday weekend!

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