Promote. Support. Engage. | | FEATURED MEMBER OF THE MONTH | | |
The Seneca Lake Wine Trail:
30 Year Chamber Member
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Founded in 1986, the Seneca Lake Wine Trail is one of the Finger Lakes region’s premier wine and tourism organizations, representing 28 member wineries surrounding Seneca Lake. A member of the Yates County Chamber of Commerce for 30 years, the organization has played a significant role in promoting both the region’s wine industry and local tourism economy.
While many visitors recognize the Seneca Lake Wine Trail for its popular tasting passes and signature wine events, much of its impact takes place behind the scenes. Through an annual digital marketing investment exceeding $150,000, a public relations program valued at more than $40,000, and strategic partnerships with tourism organizations throughout the region, the Wine Trail works year-round to attract visitors to its member wineries and the surrounding communities.
Beyond marketing, the Seneca Lake Wine Trail serves as a strong advocate for the wine industry at the regional, state, and national levels. Executive Director Brittany Gibson currently serves as Co-Chair of WineAmerica’s State and Regional Association Advisory Council, was recently appointed to the Wine Market Council Board of Directors as the only representative from the East Coast wine industry and is actively involved with the New York Wine Policy Institute.
Through these leadership positions, Brittany represents the interests of Finger Lakes wineries and wine regions across New York and the United States, participating in legislative and policy discussions in both Albany and Washington, D.C. Her involvement helps ensure that the challenges, opportunities, and priorities of the region’s wine industry are reflected in conversations shaping its future.
The organization assists members with navigating an evolving wine and tourism landscape through hospitality training, consumer research, industry advocacy, and collaborative partnerships. Its mission remains clear: attract more visitors, create memorable experiences, and support the long-term success of the wineries and communities that make the Seneca Lake region a world-class destination.
When asked about their membership, Brittany said, “The Seneca Lake Wine Trail values its longstanding partnership with the Yates County Chamber of Commerce and believes that a strong tourism economy begins with strong local relationships. Through a shared commitment to promoting and strengthening the region, the Wine Trail and the Chamber continue to invest in the success of the Finger Lakes community. As the saying goes, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”
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BAH Chubb Hollow Event Center
Wednesday, July 8, 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
4514 Chubb Hollow Road, Dundee
Chubb Hollow Event Center offers a picturesque setting for weddings, reunions, and special celebrations. Owners Rich and Meg Morrison combined the charm of a modern barn venue with an intimate nature setting, flexible indoor and outdoor space, elegant amenities, and personalized service designed to bring each client’s vision to life. Whether planning an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, Chubb Hollow provides a warm, welcoming atmosphere where every detail is thoughtfully crafted, and every event becomes a lasting memory.
BAH is an opportunity to connect with community members and business owners, enjoy refreshments, and engaging conversation. View the updated landscaping and the two new pond-side cabins (still under construction but open to view). The existing cabin and upstairs getting-ready room will both be open to view as well.
We look forward to seeing you there!
Please remember to bring your business card for door prizes and cash for the 50/50 raffle.
Plus: Attend all BAH's in 2026 be entered to win FREE Chamber Membership in 2027.
| | 2026 Business After Hours Schedule | | |
August 12th: Howard Hanna Lake Group
October 14th: Main Deck
December 9th: Keuka Housing Council
| | 2027 BAH Hosting Opportunities Now Open | | |
Host BAH in 2027. Business After Hours hosts have the opportunity to showcase their business, products, and services while engaging with the community.
We are currently looking for the last host of the 2027 BAH program:
December 8th
Contact Jody Tyler, Director of Member Services, by email jody@yatesny.com or by phone at (315)536-3111 for more information.
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2026 Community Table Dinner Beneficiary Application
The Community Table Committee is accepting applications for the beneficiary for its annual Community Table Dinner taking place September 12th, 2026, in Penn Yan. The selected beneficiary assists with volunteer recruitment for the event. If you are interested in applying, please complete this form by July 10th, 2026.
Mission of the Community Table Dinner Committee: We aim to create a sustainable, farm-to-table, community-driven event that brings people together to celebrate local food, support regional farmers, and foster meaningful connections. Rooted in sustainability, this gathering highlights fresh, locally sourced ingredients while promoting environmental responsibility. Through collaboration with local organizations, we strive to make a positive impact by giving back to the community and strengthening the local economy.
For any questions regarding this application, please call the Yates County Chamber of Commerce at 315-536-3111.
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Chamber Check-In: Jody Tyler's Commitment to Community
If you've spent any time in Yates County, chances are you've met Jody Tyler, and chances are she has helped you, connected you with someone who could, or encouraged you to get involved. As the Yates County Chamber of Commerce's Director of Membership Services, Jody is often one of the first faces people encounter, but her commitment to our community extends far beyond the walls of the Chamber.
Known for her enthusiasm, spirit, and genuine care for the people and organizations that make Yates County special, Jody has dedicated countless hours to strengthening our community. Whether she's supporting local businesses, volunteering her time, or championing initiatives that preserve and celebrate our region, Jody embodies the Chamber's mission to promote, support, and engage.
One cause especially close to her heart is honoring those who have served our country. Jody played an active role in bringing The Wall That Heals to Penn Yan in the summer of 2024. This powerful experience touched thousands of visitors and reinforced the importance of remembering and honoring our veterans.
This month, we're proud to spotlight Jody's continued efforts as a board member of the Yates County Veterans Memorial Park. Through her service on the board, she is helping lead the effort to create a lasting tribute that will honor local veterans for generations to come. Learn more about the project and how you can become involved below.
| | Sketch of Yates County
Veterans Memorial Park | | Location of Park in Lake View Cemetery | | |
Yates County Veterans Memorial Park: Community Kickoff Meeting
On Tuesday, June 16, the Yates County Veterans Memorial Park (YCVMP) entered into an agreement with the Village of Penn Yan to establish the Yates County Veterans Memorial Park at Lake View Cemetery. The project will include the restoration of the historic Abraham Wagener Memorial Chapel.
"This project is about creating a permanent tribute where families and future generations can honor the bravery of those who served," said Herbie Snyder, YCVMP Board President. "We're calling on the community to help bring this vision to life."
YCVMP invites the public to attend a community kickoff meeting on Friday, June 26, at 6:00 p.m. at the Penn Yan Firehouse. During the meeting, a Cornell University architecture student partnering with YCVMP will overview the project's vision, existing site conditions, the anticipated project timeline, and opportunities for community involvement. Most importantly, the meeting will provide an opportunity for residents to share their ideas and help shape the future of the park.
Community support will play a vital role in transforming this vision into a lasting tribute to the veterans of Yates County. YCVMP is currently raising funds to support the park's design, memorial installations, landscaping, restoration of the chapel, and visitor amenities.
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Best Man Home Service & Maids of Honor Open House and New Sign Reveal
Best Man Home Service welcomed customers, community members, employees, and local leaders to its Penn Yan office in May for a special Open House and Sign Reveal celebration, marking another milestone in the company’s continued growth and commitment to serving the region.
The event provided an opportunity for guests to tour the company’s headquarters, meet team members, and celebrate the evolution of a business that began more than seven years ago with a single van and a commitment to helping local homeowners.
Owner Will Knepple reflected on the company’s journey, thanking employees, customers, and community supporters who have contributed to their success. “Many years ago, it started off with just Susan and I and my unwrapped van,” he shared. What began with a single interior painting project quickly grew through referrals and customer trust, leading to the expansion of services and the addition of skilled tradespeople and support staff.
Today, Best Man Home Service offers a wide range of home improvement, maintenance, and repair services throughout the region, alongside its cleaning division, Maids of Honor Cleaning Service.
| | Member & Community Updates | | |
Penn Yan Celebrates Completion of Walkerbilt Park
Article originally published on Finger Lakes Daily News
A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on Wednesday in Penn Yan to celebrate the completion of the new Walkerbilt Park, a $1.8 million project funded through the Village of Penn Yan’s Downtown Revitalization Initiative award.
The waterfront park project is part of a broader effort to improve Penn Yan’s parks and trails network and includes a new playground, pavilion, dock, and waterfront landing, along with an Americans with Disabilities Act accessible walking path connecting the area to downtown.
“Penn Yan’s dedication to building on its history while embracing its natural assets is an example of how we are all working together to revitalize New York’s downtowns,” said Secretary of State Mosley. “Through the Downtown Revitalization Initiative, projects like Walkerbilt Park are helping to strengthen local businesses, create vibrant public spaces, celebrate the village’s unique heritage and improve quality of life for residents and visitors alike. The Department of State is proud to support the Village of Penn Yan as it continues to build a stronger, more connected downtown for the future.”
Walkerbilt Park was named after the former Walkerbilt Company, which operated at the site beginning as a sawmill in the late 1800s before growing into a manufacturer of store fixtures, wood products, building materials, and Stromberg-Carlson radio cabinets.
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4th of July Events
Annual event listings, live music and more in and around Yates County.
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America 250 at The Windmill Farm and Craft Market
Friday, July 3rd & Saturday, July 4th
Join The Windmill July 3rd and 4th as they commemorate the 250th anniversary of the USA! Woodhull Community Band will be there on July 3rd from 12:00 to 2:00.
All Windmill merchants will be open both days, regular hours 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
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Welcome to Yates
A collaboration between the Yates County Chamber & Finger Lakes Economic Development Center
This is an opportunity for new and existing residents and businesses to meet neighbors, learn about local resources, and discover the many benefits of living and doing business in Yates County.
Typically held on the first Thursday of every month from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., we’ll gather at a Yates County business to introduce you to this vibrant community. These casual events are designed to provide you with valuable information, connections, and resources as you settle into your new home or workplace.
Come and enjoy a relaxed, friendly atmosphere where you can ask questions, share experiences, and learn why this community is special.
Next Date & Location: TBA
Finger Lakes Economic Development Center | Facebook
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Yates County Community Gift Card
Shop Local. Support Local. Give Local.
Designed to keep local dollars here at home and bring new customers through your door, this updated version of the gift certificate makes it easier than ever for shoppers to support local.
If you are a current member and are interested in participating, please fill out the application form at the link below or contact us at the Chamber. If you have any questions, please reach out to Chrissy Kramer at the Yates County Chamber of Commerce by phone at 315.536.3111 or email Christine@yatesny.com.
Help support local businesses — one gift card at a time!
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LOCAL EVENTS - CHECK OUT OUR COMPREHENSIVE & DYNAMIC FREE LOCAL EVENTS CALENDAR FOR YATES COUNTY!
How to Guide for event listings & effective event promotion
Submit events to be included in the Yates Event Calendar
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