Finger Lakes Effect

Manitou’s calling, art’s in bloom, and FLX stacked events

Author

Adam Moody
June 18, 2025

I'm heading out of the Finger Lakes and into the Catskills this weekend for Manitou’s Revenge—a gnarly 50-ish-mile mountain race that climbs, dips, and scrapes across some wild terrain.

It’s the kind of place where lean-tos are more than a scenic backdrop—they’re a welcome sight when the legs are toast and the sun is starting to dip.

Even if I’m not staying overnight, I love that lean-tos are just there—waiting for us to use them. They’re a good reminder that these trails aren’t just for passing through—they’re for pausing, resting, and spending time.

So this feels like the perfect time to say: the Lean-to poster is officially done.

And it’s BIG.

I got the test print and I’m really happy with how it turned out.

I’m making a few color tweaks to bring out the background details, and the production print will be on heavier matte 160 gsm board.

Excited to see it come together!

After seeing it in person, I’ve decided to offer two sizes.

  • 24” x 36”

  • 18” x 24”

If you want to grab one of the limited edition prints, now is the time. If all 25 prints are sold, the Finger Lakes Effect will be making a $50 donation to the Finger Lakes Trail Conference non-profit.

Shipping will begin by the end of June as I package them up and mail them out myself!

🎟️ Upcoming Event

Details are being worked out, but a walking/hiking meetup is being planned - more on that in next week’s newsletter!

🥾 TRAIL OF THE WEEK: North Urbana Rd to Birdseye Hollow Rd via Finger Lakes Trail – Hammondsport

Looking for a peaceful, forested escape? This 2.3-mile stretch of the Finger Lakes Trail between North Urbana and Birdseye Hollow is packed with birdsong and relaxing trail. A quiet hike that feels miles away from the busy world—yet it’s just minutes from Hammondsport. Perfect for an out-and-back.

👉 Trail details here.

The Bulletin

Want to spread the word about your business, a project, a volunteer opportunity, or just give a shout-out to over 2,783 friends in the Finger Lakes?

Spotted Duck Creamery - As it says on their website, “THE BEST ICE CREAM STAND IN UPSTATE NY”, and I’m inclined to agree. Enjoy their tasty frozen custard—and check out the ducks (and a peacock) while you're there. Swing by for the treats or visit the website to choose your flavors ahead of time (or grab some merch).

Finger Lakes Lean-To Poster - If you missed the announcement in the intro, it’s now available for order! Thanks to reader feedback, I made a few final tweaks to the design and it’s now available in 24” x 36” and 18” x 24” sizes.

I ran into Christi Sobel at a local farmer’s market recently and had one of those small-world moments—I realized I already had a few of her cards at home. You might’ve seen her work too: peaceful, finely detailed pieces that capture the beauty of the Finger Lakes region.

If you’re on the lookout for locally inspired art—cards, prints, or something special to hang or gift—Christi’s work is well worth checking out at the Ithaca Farmer’s Market, or online.

In Christi’s own words:

My training is in scientific illustration, that obscure field which melds science, natural history, and fine art. My work reflects what I find beautiful and interesting in the Creation around us, bringing attention to the details that might otherwise go unnoticed.

📅 EVENTS

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Forks On The Road: Eats & Drinks

🍴 Lifting Local: Why We Only Share the Good 

In the heart of the Finger Lakes—our food and drink establishments are more than just places to grab a bite. They’re the cornerstones of community, the dreams of local entrepreneurs brought to life one plate, one pour, one friendly hello at a time.

When we set out to write about our food and drink experiences, it’s never with the intention of being critics. We aren’t here to rank or nitpick. Instead, we’re here to celebrate. To share the meals that left us smiling, the flavors that surprised us, and the people who put their hearts into creating something for their neighbors to enjoy.

Our philosophy is simple: if we love it, we’ll shout it from the rooftops. If we don’t, we’ll quietly move on.

We know every restaurant has off days—kitchens run behind, deliveries are late, staff gets stretched thin. That’s life in hospitality. And it’s exactly why we don’t believe in using our platform to amplify imperfection.

Instead, we choose to amplify joy.
We shine a light on the cozy café with the best scones this side of Cayuga, the wine bar with an adventurous flight and a friendly pour, the food truck dishing up something wholly original. Our hope is that in reading about these places, you’ll feel inspired to visit, taste, and become part of their story.

Supporting local means more than just showing up—it means choosing to believe in people’s best work. It means helping build resilience by spreading encouragement. It means telling stories that lift businesses up, not tear them down.

So as you follow our adventures and discover new places alongside us, know that every review is rooted in gratitude—for the food, the service, and the community that made it all possible.

Here's to the good stuff. And to sharing it, together.

Jeney - The Forkin’ Local

See You Out There

Thanks for being part of the Finger Lakes Effect!

Adam Moody

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P.S. The Finger Lakes Effect will be evolving as it goes - if you have an idea for the style, look, or topics, hit reply and let me know.