In partnership with the Finger Lakes Tourism Alliance, WXXI presents Journeys Through the Finger Lakes, an exploration of the past and present of the Finger Lakes region.
In this film produced and presented by WXXI Public Media, we explore each season in the Finger Lakes region visiting each lake with stunning aerial videography. These lakes form a broader region rich in meaningful history and unique culture. We journey through lush topography, singular institutions and meet the visionary icons that make up the rich tapestry of this extraordinary place.
How was the region created and defined? What effects did the landscape and weather have on the industry, agriculture, and community development? Who were the historical figures that influenced national issues in critical ways? And, who is continuing to create an innovative and diverse cultural landscape that has become synonymous with the region?
Journeys Through the Finger Lakes is dedicated to John Adamski, who worked tirelessly on behalf of the Finger Lakes and the Finger Lakes Museum.
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(Rochester, NY) – WXXI Public Media is proud to premiere its latest documentary, Journeys Through the Finger Lakes, Monday, August 10, 2020, at 8 p.m. on WXXI-TV. This co-production with the Finger Lakes Tourism Alliance celebrates a region deeply rooted in history, agriculture, social change, and sustainability.
From Susan B. Anthony and the women’s rights movement, to Harriet Tubman and the underground railroad, to spotlighting a proud and resilient Native American culture, this one-hour documentary takes viewers on a journey through the vibrant history, lush topography, and seminal moments that make up this extraordinary place.
“While the Finger Lakes may be best known for award-winning wines and gorgeous waterways, this film shows that they are so much more than that,” said WXXI President Norm Silverstein. “As we celebrate the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment, and step up the fight for social justice and equality for all, it’s apparent that this region has an important place in history,” Silverstein added.
With spectacular drone footage and intimate, on-the-ground shots, Journeys Through the Finger Lakespresents breathtaking views of the region, while sharing stories of the people, places, and businesses that transcend the passage of time. The documentary visits more than a dozen locations including: National Women’s Hall of Fame, Susan B. Anthony House, Harriet Tubman House, Ganondagan, Watkins Glen, F.L.X. Table, Glenn Curtis Museum, Cornell University, and the Finger Lakes Land Trust.
The film is also a testament to resiliency. Footage for the documentary was still being shot when the COVID-19 pandemic hit. WXXI’s production team was steadfast in their resolve to finish the film and quickly pivoted their work to abide by state-mandated safety regulations. Final shooting and interviews were completed with a limited crew who followed social distancing, mask-wearing, and other health protocols. Much of the post-production work was then done remotely from the homes of the production team. The result is a majestic film that captures the essence of the region.
“We made sure that this film was completed and made available at a time when a beautiful and uplifting story was most needed for our community,” Silverstein said.
Journeys Through the Finger Lakes is dedicated to the memory of John Adamski, who worked tirelessly on behalf of the Finger Lakes and the Finger Lakes Museum. Mr. Adamski, a native of Irondequoit, passed away earlier this year.
To learn more about the documentary, visit WXXI.org/FingerLakes. Journeys Through the Finger Lakes encores Wednesday, August 12 at 6 p.m. and Friday, August 14 at 10 a.m. on WXXI-CREATE (DT 21.3/cable 1276) and Sunday, August 16 at 5 p.m. on WXXI-WORLD (DT 21.2/cable 1275).
Journeys Through the Finger Lakes is made possible with support from: Finger Lakes Tourism Alliance and I Love NY; Saunders Foundation; Nocon & Associates, an Ameriprise Financial Services Inc. private wealth advisory practice; and The Jane K. and Robert C. Stevens Fund for New Programming.
