Testimonials

Make it stand out.

  • “Emerson Park had become a ghost park until the Friends of Emerson began caring for it and bringing it back to the community’s attention. So many people started showing up to attend summer programming.  Lawn chairs, food trucks, kids experiencing what will one day be great memories like mine of this gorgeous park; socializing with neighbors and listening to music in the outdoors on the tip of one of the main Finger Lakes, Owasco.  The FOEs have kickstarted the comeback of Emerson Park and Deauville.”

    -MaryBeth Adams, Community Member

  • “The Friends of Emerson (FOEs) in partnership with Cayuga County Parks and Trails, have done an incredible job at putting together inclusive, family-friendly events for the Auburn community. There is something for everyone- from movie nights and easter egg hunts for the kids, to rockin' bands with food and beer vendors for the adults! I think they are doing a really great thing highlighting other local organizations and businesses in the community and putting on safe and affordable events. Keep up the great work!"

    -Mara Casler, Local Author

  • “Every week the crowd grows larger and larger. More lawn chairs unfold and more boaters anchor in. The community really comes together to enjoy live music, local vendors and the green space Emerson Park offers. What a hidden gem Emerson Park is. My business is proud to be one of the first FOEs supporters and will continue to support all efforts put forth by the Friends in the future. ”

    -Michael Dugan, Owner of Dugan’s Country Grill, Cafe and Food Truck

  • "Over the past couple of years the Auburn Police Department has been able to partner with FOE’s to give back to the community. Events such as the Easter Egg Hunt show just how many people events like this touch. As the Chief of Police I am so grateful to have partners that care so much about their community."

    -Jim Slayton, Auburn Chief of Police

  • I am writing in regards to the Friends of Emerson (FOE) group and what an asset it is to our community! I am a lifelong resident of the county. For many years, I have felt that Emerson Park was a gem that was underutilized. The Friends of Emerson group has brought new life to the park. My family and I enjoy Thursday nights listening to live music, eating delicious food from the various food trucks and having good conversations with people! FOE has brought people together to a place that has always been there, but just needed some TLC. I am proud to support them in all their events and am looking forward to what's to come in the future........new playground?... amphitheater?..... I can't wait!"

    -Becky Scanlan, Community Member

  • “I’ve lived near Emerson Park for years, and my family has countless cherished memories tied to this special place. What truly makes the park a gem, though, is the incredible work done by Friends of Emerson. Their dedication shines through in everything they do—organizing great community events, keeping the park clean, and advocating for new features that make it enjoyable for everyone. Thanks to their efforts, Emerson Park isn’t just a place to visit; it’s a space where the community comes together, kids play, and neighbors connect. I truly appreciate all of the hard work and commitment Friends of Emerson puts into making the park the heart of our neighborhood!”

    -Christine Desocio, Community Member

  • "Thank you very much for your time, passion and commitment to bringing music back to the park on Thursday evenings. It has been an absolute joy to attend these events and I'm looking forward to many more in the future."

    -Mark Weslowski, Community Member

  • "I am excited by the work that FOEs has started and look forward to what’s to come. By investing in the park’s future, we’re not just enhancing a physical space – we’re preserving a cherished part of our community’s heart. I wholeheartedly support the effort to revamp the park, so that it continues to inspire and bring joy for years to come."

    -Kristen Daly, Community Member

Share your memories with us.

Whether you grew up on the roller coaster or the rocket-ship slide, we want to hear your best memories! Emerson Park has been a staple to so many in the community, a place that unites families, friends and strangers, all while creating memories day after day.