- Finger Lakes Connected
- Posts
- December 11, 2025 (Resent1)
December 11, 2025 (Resent1)
This week's newsletter features updates from local businesses and numerous local events for art, music, food, and wine. There are also life and wellness articles: Decorating for the Holidays, Pros and Cons of Assigning School Children Homework, and Slow Cooker Recipes.
Don Stevens
December 13, 2025
🌟 Finger Lakes Business & Community News
🏗️ Labelon Factory Redevelopment Begins in Canandaigua
The vacant Labelon factory is being transformed into Hunter House, a $16 million apartment complex offering 51 units ranging from studios to 3-bedrooms.
Read More
✂️ Skaneateles Fields Resort & Spa Grand Opening
A luxury 89-room resort and spa has opened in Skaneateles. The Curio Collection by Hilton property features pools, restaurants, wellness amenities, and curated outdoor activities.
Read More
đź’° ROC the Day Raises $938K for Local Nonprofits
The United Way's 24-hour online giving event raised nearly $1 million to support over 500 nonprofit organizations across the Finger Lakes region.
Read More
Family Nurse Practitioner Joins Thompson Health Gastroenterology
Family Nurse Practitioner Melissa Mandurano recently joined Thompson Health Gastroenterology and is working alongside Dr. Andrew Quinn in the Marilyn Sands Outpatient Clinic on Thompson’s main campus in Canandaigua.
Melissa Mandurano
A graduate of the Master of Science Family Nurse Practitioner Program at Roberts Wesleyan University in Rochester, Mandurano has been part of Thompson since 2016, most recently serving as a registered nurse in the Ambulatory Procedures Center. Known for her clinical excellence, leadership, and compassionate, patient-centered approach, she has experience spanning both outpatient and acute care, including the Emergency Department and Post-Anesthesia Care Unit.
Mandurano is a resident of Clifton Springs. Prior to becoming a family nurse practitioner, she received her associate degree in nursing from Finger Lakes Community College, followed by her bachelor’s in nursing from Roberts Wesleyan.
For more information about Thompson Health Gastroenterology, visit www.ThompsonHealth.com/GI or call 585-394-2520.
Four Receive Thompson’s Service Excellence Award
UR Medicine Thompson Health recently named four of its associates as the third-quarter 2025 Service Excellence Award winners.
Recipients of the quarterly award are chosen by the health system’s Service Excellence Team, which reviews compliments from patients, families, and coworkers.
Chosen for the honor were:
Isabella Calabrese of Canandaigua, a patient care technician on hospital floor 3 West. She was selected based on kudos from a coworker who has observed she speaks with patients as if they’re close friends or family members. This coworker wrote, “Listening to you engage with the patients helps me remember why I love the art of nursing.”
Katie Gulvin of Clifton Springs, a registered nurse on 3 West. A patient said that during a 30-day stay at Thompson, Gulvin consistently addressed their concerns and sought ways to make them more comfortable. When the patient was sad about missing a Beach Boys concert, Gulvin shared videos from the concert with them the following day.
Alexandra Hudson of Penn Yan, a radiology technologist in Radiology. She was selected following praise from a coworker, who said she readily assisted the coworker when a patient needed help and the coworker had their hands full.
Casey Sens of Fairport, a patient care technician on 3 West. A coworker said he went out of his way to provide individualized care to a patient who had trouble communicating, printing and laminating communication sheets as well as helping the patient add communication buttons to his iPad.
Each recipient of the Service Excellence Award receives points to be used on Thompson’s online shopping site and is featured in CEO presentations as well as on Thompson’s intranet site and in its internal newsletter.
Wood Library
Where Tradition, Technology and Community Meet
ADULT PROGRAMS: 
Craft your own greeting cards with instructor Sally. The cost is $20 per person and includes everything you need to make four cards with envelopes.
Saturday, December 13 | 10:30 AM-12:30 PM Register here.
Monday, December 15 | 6:00-7:30 PM Register here.
Monday, December 15 | 2:00-3:00 PM
Read and discuss The Chosen and the Beautiful by Nghi Vo. New members welcome.
Tuesday, December 16 | 7:00-8:00 PM
Read and discuss Never Whistle at Night: An Indigenous Dark Fiction Anthology by Shane Hawk. New members welcome. Register here.
Wednesday, December 17
Pick up a kit to make your own foam Christmas tree. Register here.
Wednesday, December 17 | 11:00 AM—12:00 PM
Learn about research in the areas of diet and nutrition, exercise, cognitive activity, and social engagement. Incorporate these recommendations into building a plan for healthy aging. Register here.
Wednesday, December 17 | 1:00-3:00 PM
For persons with Parkinson's disease and caregivers.
Thursday, December 18 | 5:00-7:00 PM
Ontario County residents 60+. Buying a new computer or tablet can be overwhelming. This class will guide you through the purchase process with the goal of determining which type of computer will best fit your needs and where to look for one. Learn the pros and cons of buying new vs. refurbished vs. used, as well as some tips on how to transfer data from an old computer to a new one. Register here.
 CHILDREN PROGRAMS:
Saturday, December 13 | 10:30-11:15 AM
Let's dance! Start with a fun story and then dance and move to our favorite songs.
Storytimes
*Please check the online calendar for up-to-date information.
Baby Storytime
Mondays & Fridays, December 12, 15, 19 & 29 | 9:30-10:00 AM
All-Ages Storytime
Mondays & Thursdays, December 11, 15, 18 & 29 | 10:15-10:45 AM
RECURRING PROGRAMS:
Wood Walkers- Mondays | 9:00-10:00 AM
Tai Chi- Mondays | 10:00-10:45 AM
Zumba- Tuesday, December 16 | 5:30-6:30 PM
Open Tech Hours- Wednesday, December 17 | 3:00-5:00 PM
New Yorker Discussion Group- Thursday, December 18 | 3:30-4:30 PM
See the full list of library programs on our calendar.
Find Wood Library at 134 N Main St, Canandaigua.
Visit woodlibrary.org and look for us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.
Give the gift of Roots Cafe this Christmas and help support small business in our home town!!
Merry Christmas ❣️
Mon and Tue Closed
Wed-Sun: 11am-3pm Lunch, 5pm-8pm Dinner
Roots Cafe - 585-374-9800 - http://rootscafenaplesny.com
Christmas at Belhurst Castle
Celebrate the Holidays at Belhurst Castle!
Reserve your spot today- call 315-781-0201 ext.3
Belhurst Castle and Winery
🍷 Wine, Beer & Spirits News
🏆 Ravines Wine Cellars Riesling Makes Wine Spectator Top 100
Ravines' 2022 Dry Riesling secured the #36 spot on Wine Spectator’s prestigious Top 100 Wines of 2025 list—another major win for the region.
Read More
🍾 Dr. Frank Winery Releases 40th Anniversary Sparkling Wine
Dr. Konstantin Frank launched Brut Cuvée ’85—a 100-case limited sparkling wine celebrating four decades of bubbly production in the Finger Lakes.
Read More
đź›’ Silver Thread Vineyard Opens New Tasting Room
Silver Thread has opened a scenic new Winegarden tasting room on Seneca Lake in Lodi, offering wine flights and food in a stunning vineyard setting.
Read More
Available for a limited time, in tasting room only.
🎄 Featured Cocktails from Miles Wine Cellars 🍷
Miles Wine Cellars
Open Daily, 10am-5pm.
68 Randall Crossing Rd, Himrod, NY 14842
(607) 243-7742 - http://MilesWineCellars.com/
From Our Blog:
Decorating for the Holidays
All through the month of December we enjoy the seasonal decorations. Whether you are sprucing things up for parties, your family, or just yourself, there are some things you might want to try just for fun. Read more.
Pros and Cons of Assigning School Children Homework
Ugh! Homework and more homework. It seems that it never stops for the students as well as the parents. There are some who actually favor abolishing the practice. Here are some pros and cons to consider. Read more.
6 Delicious Roasted Vegetable Recipes
It’s the time of year when everything seems to accelerate with year end deadlines, parties, and family functions. It is also cold, driving home in the dark, and still the need to eat well. That means it is a perfect opportunity to haul out the slow cooker. Read to the bottom and you will find some dessert recipes as well. Read more
Live and Local Events Curated and Submitted by Venues
Please check business or venue for accuracy. You can see more local events at our online calendar.
12/13/2025 8:00 AM
Enjoy a pancake Breakfast with Santa, raffles, and crafts! Basket raffles and tickets raise money for grades K-5!...
Hydrant Hose Company No. 1 - Geneva, NY 79 Geneva St, Geneva, NY 14456
12/13/2025 9:00 AM
Visit with galleries and specialty shops featuring local artists and products. Discover artists demonstrations, exhibits...
Downtown Canandaigua 108 S Main St, Canandaigua, NY 14424
$60
12/13/2025 9:00 AM
We are joyfully preparing for our Advent Retreat Day, “Blessed are They that Hope in the Lord: Advent Meditations...
Notre Dame Retreat House 5151 Foster Rd, Canandaigua, NY 14424
$10.00
12/13/2025 9:00 AM
Come check out the Grinch and Friends!! Doors open at 9am. Plenty of picture opportunities and fun to be had...
7811 State Rte 21, Naples, NY 14512
12/13/2025 9:30 AM
We will be offering a warm place for families and those in recovery at the It's A Wonderful Life Festival We'll...
111 Fall St, Seneca Falls, NY 13148
12/13/2025 10:00 AM recurs every week
Join us for the 4th Annual "Geneva Jingle Markets" shopping event on, December 6th, 10:00am-3:00pm. Support...
35 Lake Front Dr, Geneva, NY 14456
$10.00
12/13/2025 10:00 AM
Stop by The Artist's Lounge on Dec. 13th 10:00-3:00 to paint your own bell or angel ornament ($10 each). Reserve...
The Artist’s Lounge 116 Fall St, Seneca Falls, NY 13148
12/13/2025 10:00 AM recurs every day
Join us for the return of the Little Red Wagon Market, Ithaca's Premier juried Holiday Artisan show, on December...
2255 N Triphammer Rd, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA
$44.00
12/13/2025 10:00 AM
Subject : Unwind This Holiday Season with Yoga Nidra & Sound Bath The holiday season is a beautiful time to...
250 Gorham St, Canandaigua, NY 14424
$10.00
12/13/2025 10:45 AM
Meet at the fitness center just inside the Sociale Cafe Dress in comfortable clothing. No need for a yoga outfit,...
del Lago Resort & Casino 1133 NY-414, Waterloo, NY 13165
12/13/2025 11:00 AM
Get ready to shop local, sip something warm, and soak up the holiday spirit — all while supporting Tompkins...
615 Willow Ave, Ithaca, NY 14850
12/13/2025 12:00 PM
Christmas at the Museum: Santa is Coming! Saturday, December 13, 2025 • 12:00–3:00 PM Glenn H. Curtiss...
Glenn H Curtiss Museum 8419 NY-54, Hammondsport, NY 14840
12/13/2025 12:00 PM
Happy Christmas! The 32nd edition of Dickens Christmas in Skaneateles opens Nov. 28, enchanting holiday shoppers...
Skaneateles Area Chamber Of Commerce 22 Jordan St, Skaneateles, NY 13152
12/13/2025 2:00 PM
Join owner & winemaker Vinny Aliperti for a relaxed, interactive afternoon of tasting and conversation. Each session...
Billsboro Winery 4760 W Lake Rd, Geneva, NY 14456
12/13/2025 2:00 PM recurs every 4 weeks
Back to the Basics is a monthly market focusing on community sufficiency through teaching natural wellness, homesteading,...
250 Gorham St, Canandaigua, NY 14424, USA
$60.00
12/13/2025 3:00 PM
Are you prepping for the holidays and unsure which wines to pair with your meal? Then join us for a wine tasting experience...
New York Kitchen 800 S Main St, Canandaigua, NY 14424
12/13/2025 3:00 PM recurs every week
**Holiday Market & Village at Prison City Brewing Make magical memories this holiday season with us at Prison...
251 North St, Auburn, NY 13021
12/13/2025 4:00 PM
Join us on Saturday, December 13, 2025, in Pulteney Square for one of Hammondsport’s most magical traditions!...
Hammondsport, NY 14840, USA
12/13/2025 6:00 PM
**NEW VENUE FOR US - Grist Iron Brewing Company (microbrewery in Burdett, NY, north of Watkins Glen). Whether you're...
Grist Iron Brewing Company 4880 NY-414, Burdett, NY 14818
12/13/2025 6:00 PM
Stop in and grab a cup of cheer with the Mojo’s Crew. Nick will be starting at 6:00PM ...
23 W Main St, Waterloo, NY 13165
12/13/2025 7:00 PM
Join Ithaca Concert Band in our annual Holiday Concert! Our program will feature a childrens' portion as well...
953 Danby Rd, Ithaca, NY 14850
$25.00
12/13/2025 7:00 PM
Next Stop Comedy brings the best comedians, with new lineups every time, straight to your neighborhood for an unforgettable...
5712 NY-414, Hector, NY 14841
12/13/2025 7:30 PM
Burns And Kristy Band n Friends. Terry Burns, Ron Kristy, Rich DePaolo, Doug Robinson and Bill King A fun and moving...
First Baptist Church in Ithaca 309 N Cayuga St, Ithaca, NY 14850
12/14/2025 8:00 AM
Join us for breakfast from 8am-11am with Mr. Grinch!! The kids will have a hot cocoa bar, kids activities, photo-ops...
Lucky Hare Brewing Bar and Grill 2 Seneca Hbr Dr, Watkins Glen, NY 14891
12/14/2025 9:00 AM
Enjoy a festive breakfast and visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus and experience a morning of holiday cheer, sweet treats,...
The Lake House on Canandaigua 770 S Main St, Canandaigua, NY 14424
12/14/2025 9:00 AM
***PAY WHAT YOU CAN GROOMING EVENT!*** Get your pets holiday-ready while spreading the cheer! Join Barber of the...
108 Water St, Penn Yan, NY 14527
$45.00
12/14/2025 9:00 AM recurs every week
Sundays are meant for savoring—join us for a delightful Sunday Jazz Brunch overlooking the beauty of Geneva...
1001 Lochland Rd, Geneva, NY 14456, USA
12/14/2025 10:00 AM
***Breakfast with Santa is back!*** Join us Sunday, December 14th from 10AM–1PM for a magical morning full...
200 E Church St, Elmira, NY 14901
12/14/2025 10:30 AM
Worth The Wait - Get your Christmas Tree at an unbeatable price! You can shop for your pre-cut tree in a warm, indoor...
Hobbit Hollow Farm 3061 W Lake Rd, Skaneateles, NY 13152
$20.00 - $25.00
12/14/2025 12:00 PM
On Sunday, December 14, from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m., SFHS is hosting the It’s A Wonderful Life Historic Homes Tour....
Seneca Falls Historical Society 55 Cayuga St, Seneca Falls, NY 13148
12/14/2025 1:00 PM
One stop holiday shop for fresh craft beer, fresh local produce, handcrafted gifts, and more! ...
3543 E Lake Rd, Geneva, NY 14456
$15.00
12/14/2025 3:00 PM
There's no magic like the magic of the holiday season, and there's no concert like a Finger Lakes Community...
215 Granger St, Canandaigua, NY 14424
$10 - $35
12/14/2025 3:00 PM
Geneva Concerts presents The Syracuse Orchestra at the Smith Opera House on Sunday, December 14, 2025 at 3:00PM. ...
82 Seneca St, Geneva, NY 14456
$10.38
12/14/2025 5:00 PM
Every 2nd Sunday of the month! Join us for Honky Tonk Sunday with the Deep Dive Barn Haulers! Featuring Ric Robertson,...
415 Old Taughannock Blvd, Ithaca, NY 14850
12/14/2025 6:00 PM recurs every day
Join us for our annual Live Nativity! This free, drive thru event will take you through the Nativity story, from the...
First United Methodist Church of Canandaigua 100 N Main St, Canandaigua, NY 14424
$35
12/15/2025 8:30 AM
We invite you to join us for our Advent – Sacred Stillness Day on Monday, December 15th. As the season of Advent...
Notre Dame Retreat House 5151 Foster Rd, Canandaigua, NY 14424
12/16/2025 6:00 PM recurs every week
Join Brenda every Tuesday evening from 6pm-7pm for a Beginner Friendly Kundalini Yoga Practice Kundalini Yoga is...
142 Mill St, Canandaigua, NY 14424, USA
FREE
12/19/2025 11:30 AM
We are thrilled to welcome the Canandaigua Middle School Choral Group as they lead us in a joyful and heartwarming...
Notre Dame Retreat House 5151 Foster Rd. Canandaigua, NY 14424
12/21/2025 5:00 PM
This winter's edition of Comfort Food for Comfort Care is supported by "Do Good with Chipotle!" Here's...
Chipotle Mexican Grill 282 Eastern Blvd, Canandaigua, NY 14424
Adults & Seniors $12.93, Students & Youth $8.95
12/27/2025 7:00 PM
The Worlds #1 Cat Video Festival comes to Geneva! Oscilloscope Laboratories presents CatVideoFest 2025, a compilation...
The Smith Opera House 82 Seneca St, Geneva, NY 14456, USA
$18
01/09/2026 11:00 AM
LeTourneau Christian Center’s Blessed Hope January Ladies Luncheon will be held on Friday, January 9 at 11:00...
LeTourneau Christian Center 4950 East Lake Road, Rushville, NY 14544
02/26/2026 3:45 PM
Join us for a fun evening with Weis Vineyards from Keuka Lake! They’ll be pouring some of their favorite wines....
301 N Franklin St, Watkins Glen, NY 14891
04/25/2026 8:00 AM
REGISTRATION OPENS JANUARY 1st! Join us for the “Be A Light Walk-a-thon!” where community members can...
FLCC 3325 Marvin Sands Dr, Canandaigua, NY 14424
That’s it for this week.
Until next time, enjoy the beauty of the Finger Lakes – whether you're watching the sun set over the water, exploring a new trail, or savoring a glass of local wine. We're grateful to share this special corner of New York with you.
Stay connected, stay curious, and we'll see you in the next issue!
As a reminder, contact us if you'd like to advertise your business or event.
Don,
Finger Lakes Connected