Community Calendar

How do we reconcile our engineered past with an ecological future?

2025 Erie Canal Artists-in-Residence Sarah Cameron Sunde and Kari Varner explore the Canal from an environmental lens.

Kari Varner, a distinguished photographer and educator, explored key ecological sites along the canal, integrating harvested plants into her photographic artworks. Sarah Cameron Sunde, an innovative interdisciplinary artist, engaged with canal communities to create pieces that physically and ecologically connect with the canal. She also developed work in collaboration with Jeremy Dennis, a contemporary fine art photographer and an enrolled Tribal Member of the Shinnecock Indian Nation in Southampton, NY.

Cazenovia Artisans Presents
Wheel-Thrown Functional Vessels by Guest Artist Peter Valenti
“Under Cover: Covered Jars and Pierced Ceramics”

August 2-30, 2026

Peter’s functional vessels are primarily wheel-thrown and fired using both an electric kiln and a wood/salt kiln. Most of the resulting pieces straddle somewhere between functional and sculptural, with emphasis on both form and function. He tends to work things out in a series of 10 to 20 pieces until he is satisfied with at least some results. He’ll often let the work “rest,” and then he’ll eventually circle back to an interesting form, something that speaks to him, and he’ll work from that. Peter’s work investigates nature and tradition. Pierced work, yet functional, becomes sculptural vessels that create a feeling of lightness and transparency with a simple elegance.

Peter holds a B.S. IN Art Education from SUNY Oswego and an M.S. in Art Education from Syracuse University. He developed the Ceramics program at East Syracuse Minoa High School. He is the Co-founder of Feats of Clay CNY and was the director from 2002 to 2015. Founder and current member of Independent Potters’ Association (IPA).

“I strive for impeccable craftsmanship, which always seems elusive to me. Probably my main influence in creating pottery comes from ancient makers, such as Jomon Potters from Japan and Song Dynasty Pottery from China. I believe as a maker of things that finished work reflects the maker in ways that we don’t immediately understand, and that is what keeps me going.”

Please join us at Cazenovia Artisans as we celebrate some unique and inspiring creativity.

Peter’s Reception is Friday, August 7, 5-7:00 p.m., with an artist talk at 6:00.
Free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be served. 
cazenoviaartisans.com   315-655-2225.  39 Albany Street, Cazenovia, NY 13035

In this six-session series, students will learn about the versatile drawing medium of charcoal. From its wide range of expressive possibilities to its intricate shading and texture potential, charcoal has a little bit for everyone. The class will focus on a wipe out technique working in a step-by-step process using layers to capture a full range of dynamic lighting in students’ artwork.

Aug. 6 – Oct. 16, 2026

The United Way of Cayuga County Personal Care Drive helps ensure that individuals and families in our community have access to essential hygiene items that are not always covered by assistance programs. Donations of items such as soap, shampoo, toothpaste, deodorant, and feminine hygiene products make a meaningful difference for those facing financial hardship. These everyday necessities support health, dignity, and confidence for our neighbors in need. Collected items are distributed through local partner agencies, reaching individuals and families across Cayuga County.

With the community’s support, we can come together to meet basic needs and uplift one another. Join us in making a simple but powerful impact.

Needed items:

• Shampoo
• Conditioner
• Toothpaste
• Toothbrushes
• Mouthwash
• Dental floss
• Razors
• Shaving cream
• Laundry detergent
• Toilet paper
• Feminine products
• Hand soap
• Body soap
• Diapers
• Wipes
• Deodorant
• Dish soap
• Tissues

Check the United Way of Cayuga County website for a list of drop-off box locations.

It's finally that time. Our annual Summer Book Sale will start on June 22 at 9 a.m. We have wonderful children's books that would be amazing for teachers looking for books. We have a huge selection of books and DVD's for all ages. We also have some vintage maps and original oil/watercolor paintings. You can call 315-482-2241 with any questions.

Come ride the restored river boat, Rose Lummis, on Sodus Bay! Save our Sodus offers 90-minute and two-hour cruises between May 8 and September 26, leaving from Oak Park Marina in North Rose, NY. Whether you're taking the kids on an eco-tour, or getting a guided history and wildlife cruise, or simply soaking up the sunset with local music, food and wine -- we invite you to experience Sodus Bay on board the Rose Lummis. Booking information at http://www.saveoursodus.com/roselummis.

How do we reconcile our engineered past with an ecological future?

2025 Erie Canal Artists-in-Residence Sarah Cameron Sunde and Kari Varner explore the Canal from an environmental lens.

Kari Varner, a distinguished photographer and educator, explored key ecological sites along the canal, integrating harvested plants into her photographic artworks. Sarah Cameron Sunde, an innovative interdisciplinary artist, engaged with canal communities to create pieces that physically and ecologically connect with the canal. She also developed work in collaboration with Jeremy Dennis, a contemporary fine art photographer and an enrolled Tribal Member of the Shinnecock Indian Nation in Southampton, NY.

This summer, the Rippleton Schoolhouse at Lorenzo invites visitors of all ages to engage with history hands-on. Have a lesson in the authentic 1887 schoolhouse, try your hand at traditional games and activities, and explore the beautiful grounds. Follow Lorenzo’s Facebook and Instagram for special activities and scheduling changes. Sensory friendly. Admission is free.

Cazenovia Artisans Presents
Wheel-Thrown Functional Vessels by Guest Artist Peter Valenti
“Under Cover: Covered Jars and Pierced Ceramics”

August 2-30, 2026

Peter’s functional vessels are primarily wheel-thrown and fired using both an electric kiln and a wood/salt kiln. Most of the resulting pieces straddle somewhere between functional and sculptural, with emphasis on both form and function. He tends to work things out in a series of 10 to 20 pieces until he is satisfied with at least some results. He’ll often let the work “rest,” and then he’ll eventually circle back to an interesting form, something that speaks to him, and he’ll work from that. Peter’s work investigates nature and tradition. Pierced work, yet functional, becomes sculptural vessels that create a feeling of lightness and transparency with a simple elegance.

Peter holds a B.S. IN Art Education from SUNY Oswego and an M.S. in Art Education from Syracuse University. He developed the Ceramics program at East Syracuse Minoa High School. He is the Co-founder of Feats of Clay CNY and was the director from 2002 to 2015. Founder and current member of Independent Potters’ Association (IPA).

“I strive for impeccable craftsmanship, which always seems elusive to me. Probably my main influence in creating pottery comes from ancient makers, such as Jomon Potters from Japan and Song Dynasty Pottery from China. I believe as a maker of things that finished work reflects the maker in ways that we don’t immediately understand, and that is what keeps me going.”

Please join us at Cazenovia Artisans as we celebrate some unique and inspiring creativity.

Peter’s Reception is Friday, August 7, 5-7:00 p.m., with an artist talk at 6:00.
Free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be served. 
cazenoviaartisans.com   315-655-2225.  39 Albany Street, Cazenovia, NY 13035

Experience the natural beauty of the Catskills from a unique vantage point aboard the Catskill Mountain Railroad. Passengers travel through some of the oldest farmlands in the United States, crossing the Esopus Creek through the Hurley Flats before climbing Hurley Mountain. All rides depart round-trip from the Westbrook Lane Station in the Kingston Plaza, adjacent to Uptown Kingston’s Historic Stockade District.

The seasonal schedule spans Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from July 4 through Sept. 20:

Catskill Flyer & Ice Cream Express

• Schedule: Fridays and Saturdays (Catskill Flyer); Sundays (Ice Cream Express, includes ice cream).
• Departure Times: 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m.
• Duration: Approximately 90 minutes.
• Catskill Flyer Tickets: $20 for adults; $19 for seniors, military personnel, and veterans; $14 for children ages 2–12.
• Ice Cream Express Tickets: $25 for adults; $23 for seniors, military personnel, and veterans; $19 for children ages 2–12.

Twilight Limited

• Schedule: Friday, July 24, and Friday, Aug. 28, at 7:30 p.m.
• Features: Live onboard music provided by local entertainers under the evening sky.
• Tickets: $25 for adults; $23 for seniors, military personnel, and veterans; $19 for children ages 2–12.

Note: Toddlers under age 2 ride free on an adult's lap for all excursions. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

Location & Contact Information

• Address: Westbrook Station, 55 Kingston Plaza Road, Kingston, NY 12401
• Tickets & Information: Visit the Catskill Mountain Railroad website, email info@catskillmountainrailroad.com, or call 845-332-4854.
• Social Media: Connect on the Catskill Mountain Railroad Facebook page.