Posts by Jake Banas

Author: Jake Banas

Jake Banas is the Visitor Experience Curator at the Finger Lakes Visitors Connection. Originally from the Albany area, he first came to the Finger Lakes as a student at Keuka College. While in school, he developed such a love for the Finger Lakes region that he decided that he just didn’t want to leave! Jake has a passion for all things outdoors, especially hiking, kayaking, and nature photography. He also loves theatre and the arts, and is always looking for new experiences. Jake’s take on the Finger Lakes is that, “There’s simply so much to experience and there’s always something new to try!"

Though well-known to locals, those visiting the Finger Lakes may be wondering what this slice of peculiar purple pie is, and it would be a shame to miss out on it! An essential part of every Thanksgiving dinner or celebratory family gathering, pies bring people together. Everyone has a favorite, but bring this pie to your next family event, and you'll have the most unique pie of all.

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Any resident of Geneva will tell you that arts and the performing arts play a big part in making Geneva “Uniquely Urban.” The past is presented in the story and architecture of the Dove Block, on the Seneca Lake Mural, and the Musselman Wall; but here are ways you can discover Geneva’s next big hit.

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“You see, sometimes friends have to go away, but a part of them stays behind with you." You may believe this quote is from a profound writer or compelling spiritualist, but it’s a quote from the Pokemon series’ main protagonist, Ash Ketchum. That shouldn’t belittle this important message. In fact, Pokemon and playing games have a way of bringing people together.

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The rush of summer may be winding down but there’s always time for a family getaway in the Finger Lakes. Consider these great, family-friendly events!

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On Monday, August 21, people across North America will experience an event that hasn’t occurred here in 38 years: a solar eclipse. This celestial event occurs when the moon passes between the sun and the Earth, blocking all or part of the sun. If you want to witness the great American eclipse first hand, here is what you need to know about watching the eclipse in the Finger Lakes.

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The Finger Lakes region is blessed with rolling hills, swaying vineyards and sparkling waters that

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What do Carnegie Hall, The Metropolitan Opera and (soon) Canandaigua Academy have in common? They’ve

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Do you love Finger Lakes wine? We don't blame you. Our region is jam-packed (grape pun intended)

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There’s no better way to celebrate Earth Day (or any day) than to retreat into nature and hike in the Finger Lakes. Some of our Finger Lakes Visitors Connection staff are avid hikers and recently explored Rob's Trail near the Hemlock-Canadice State Forest. Here are seven great photos from their excursion in celebration of Mother Earth and the great outdoors!

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