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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“When gratitude turns into giving, a community shines brighter.” As I was scrolling through Facebook last night, I came across a post from Lauren McQuaid, owner of Simplicity on Main , that truly touched my heart. Her words carried such warmth, gratitude, and purpose that I felt compelled to share them — not only to help her spread the word, but to celebrate the kindness that makes our community so special. There’s a quiet kind of beauty in kindness — the kind that radiates from people who use what they have to make the world just a little bit better. Here in Penn Yan, that beauty shines brightly through Lauren McQuaid, owner of Simplicity on Main, a women’s clothing boutique that has become more than just a place to shop. It’s a space where confidence, connection, and community come together — and this season, Lauren is weaving those values into something even more meaningful. A Giving Spirit Lauren believes in gratitude in action. As she says so simply, “ When you’ve been blessed with a large platform, you need to do as much good with it as possible.” With the holidays fast approaching — a time of joy, reflection, and often, struggle — Lauren wanted to find a way to lift up those in need right here in Penn Yan. Over the next several weeks, Simplicity on Main will be collecting unexpired pantry goods for a local charity that serves families in our own community. Anyone wishing to donate can drop items off during the boutique’s regular business hours. And, as a sweet token of appreciation, the first 25 people who contribute will receive a small thank-you gift from Lauren and her team — a gesture that reflects the generosity and heart that define her shop. Style with Purpose Since opening her doors, Lauren has created more than a boutique — she’s created a gathering place. A place where women come not only to find beautiful clothes, but to feel seen, celebrated, and encouraged. Her belief that “nobody should ever go without” extends far beyond fashion; it’s woven into the very fabric of her business. Whether it’s through a smile, a compliment, or this latest community project, Lauren continues to remind us that style isn’t just about what we wear — it’s about how we show up for one another. The Heart of Penn Yan Penn Yan’s charm comes from its people — the small business owners, volunteers, and everyday neighbors who quietly make a difference. Lauren’s giving initiative is one more reason our visitors often say, “You can feel something special here.” It’s true — in our little village, kindness isn’t rare. It’s part of who we are. So as you stroll down Main Street this season, stop into Simplicity on Main. Browse the racks, say hello, and if you can, drop off a donation. Because when we come together — one can, one act of kindness, one heart at a time — we make Penn Yan shine just a little brighter. ❤️ Thank you, Lauren, for reminding us what it means to lead with grace, gratitude, and community spirit. 🛍️ Visit Simplicity on Main Let’s do what we do best, Penn Yan! ❤️ Weekly Hours: Monday: 9 AM – 3 PM Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 9 AM – 3 PM Thursday: 9 AM – 3 PM Friday: 9 AM – 5 PM Saturday: 10 AM – 3 PM Sunday: Closed Address: 📍 1 E Main Street, Penn Yan, NY (The old bookstore on the corner of Main and Water St!) Join Lauren and Simplicity on Main on FB
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