- Finger Lakes Connected
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- January 1, 2026
January 1, 2026
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: New Year's Resolutions, Organizing To-Do Lists, New Year's and Party Menu Ideas.
Don Stevens
January 01, 2026
🌟 Finger Lakes Business & Community News
🛠️ $42.6M in State Funding to Grow the Region
The Finger Lakes region won $42.6 million through New York’s Regional Economic Development Council awards. Funding will support infrastructure, housing expansion, food distribution hubs (like a new Headwater Foods facility in Rochester), and more projects boosting local growth. esd.ny.gov+1
🔗 Read More: https://esd.ny.gov/esd-media-center/press-releases/empire-state-development-announces-finger-lakes-region-awarded-426
🏋️♂️ 🛒 Planet Fitness Opens in Geneva
A new Planet Fitness gym opened its doors in Geneva with a $2M investment, expanding fitness options and jobs in the community. Fingerlakes1.com
🔗 Read More: https://www.fingerlakes1.com/2025/12/10/planet-fitness-opens-in-geneva-with-2m-investment/
🌱 📈 Cornell AgriTech Expands Innovation Space
Cornell AgriTech cut the ribbon on Tech Farm II, doubling its capacity for food, ag tech, and beverage innovation — a boost for startups and regional producers. WHAM
🔗 Read More: https://13wham.com/newsletter-daily/cornell-agritech-opens-tech-farm-ii-doubling-capacity-for-regional-food-and-ag-innovation
🛒 ✂️ FLX Chamber Holiday Open House & Anniversary Celebration
The Finger Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce hosted its final 2025 networking open house at One Franklin Square in Geneva, celebrating the 5th anniversary of Community Broadband Networks’ growth from a startup to a regional provider with 40+ employees and major broadband infrastructure expansion. Leaders also shared plans and initiatives for 2026. Finger Lakes Daily News+1
🔗 Read More: https://www.fingerlakesdailynews.com/community-news-releases/flx-chamber-hosts-holiday-open-house-at-one-franklin-square/
Finger Lakes Welcome Center
Free ‘Wellness for Women’ Presentation Jan. 14
UR Medicine Thompson Health invites the community to “Wellness for Women: A Modern Approach to Women’s Health and Vitality.”
Held from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 14, at Wood Library, 134 N. Main St. in Canandaigua, the event will feature local experts in women’s health discussing nutrition, exercise, stress management, social connections, and restful sleep.
Drs. Jillian Babu and Catherine Cantwell of Thompson’s OB/GYN practice will be joined for the presentation by Holly Gilligan, a registered dietitian and former college athlete from UR Medicine Fitness Science.
This free event is presented by Thompson in conjunction with the library, which offers programs funded by the Ontario Yates Fund for Women and Girls (known as ONYA).
RSVP by Jan. 13 to [email protected].
‘Breastmilk for Your Newborn’ Class at Thompson Jan. 18
A registered nurse who is also a certified lactation consultant will host “Breastmilk for Your Newborn” on Sunday, Jan. 18, from 10 a.m. to noon in the second-floor Birthing Center classroom at Thompson Hospital, 350 Parrish St. in Canandaigua.
Held the third Sunday of every month, this class is all about providing human milk to your baby, whether through breastfeeding (latching at the breast/ chest) or pumping and feeding expressed milk. The instructor says this course is a supportive space for parents who want to feel confident and empowered in giving their little one the best start with human milk. For more information, call 585-396-6295.
Wood Library
Where Tradition, Technology and Community Meet
Happy New Year!
ADULT PROGRAMS:
Friday, January 2 | 10:30 AM-5:30 PM
Learn proven driving techniques to keep you and your loved ones safe on the road. $25 for AARP Members or $30 for non-members. Register here.
Tuesday, January 6 | 2:00-3:30 PM
Peer or professionally-led groups for caregivers, individuals living with Alzheimer's, and others dealing with the disease.
Wednesday, January 7 | 9:00–11:30 AM
Learn strategies for living well with chronic pain. ONYA-funded program for women and girls 16+. Register here.
Wednesday, January 7 | 6:30–8:00 PM
Learn to play new games with, Game Master, John Michalko.
Thursday, January 8 | 2:00–4:00 PM
Join us for a friendly game of Euchre every Thursday. Register here.
Friday, January 9 | 11:00 AM-1:00 PM
The Canandaigua Writers Group welcomes anyone who has an interest in writing. Share original stories, poems, memoirs, and more in a supportive, learning community of fellow writers.
ADULT & TEEN PROGRAMS:
Monday, January 5 | 5:30-7:00 PM
A social gathering of fiber crafters. All skill levels welcome!
Wednesday, January 7 | 6:00-8:00 PM
All skill levels welcome. Appetizers provided!
TEEN PROGRAMS:
Tuesday, January 6 | 1:00-2:00 PM
A monthly homeschool meetup for teens ages 13-18. Register here.
Thursday, January 8 | 6:00-8:00 PM
Eat pizza and watch Coraline with friends! (PG, CC, 1 hr 40 min)
CHILDREN PROGRAMS:
Storytimes
*Please check the online calendar for up-to-date information.
Fridays, January 2, 9, 16 & 23 | 9:30-10:00 AM
Thursdays, January 8, 15 & 22 | 10:15-10:45 AM
RECURRING PROGRAMS:
Wood Walkers- Mondays | 9:00-10:00 AM
Tai Chi- Mondays | 10:00-10:45 AM
Zumba- Tuesdays | 5:30-6:30 PM
Chair Yoga- Wednesdays | 10:00-11:00 AM
Open Tech Hours- Wednesdays | 2:00-4:00 PM
Euchre- Thursdays | 2:00-4:00 PM
New Yorker Discussion Group- Thursdays | 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 season and help support small business in our home town!
HOURS:
New Year’s Day CLOSED.
January 2-3, LUNCH 11-3, Dinner 5-8
January 4th, SUNDAY BRUNCH.
Roots Cafe - 585-374-9800 - http://rootscafenaplesny.com
Belhurst Castle and Winery
Our top 3 reasons why a winter wedding is awesome!
The photo opps are GORGEOUS! Don’t be afraid to take snow photos - you won’t be sorry!
November - April is considered our “off-season” for weddings/events which means lower minimum spends compared to our in-season.
More availability! We know by popular demand that the majority of our wedding inquiries want a Spring/Summer/Fall wedding - but you’ll have more access to dates in the Winter months!
Ready to inquire? Email [email protected] today to set up your in-person tour!
🍷 Wine, Beer & Spirits News
🍇 🏆 Finger Lakes Named American Wine Region of the Year
The Finger Lakes was honored as the 2025 American Wine Region of the Year by Wine Enthusiast, recognizing the area’s world‑class wineries, sustainable practices, and collaborative industry that draws wine lovers from across the globe. Rochester Business Journal
🔗 Read More: https://rbj.net/2025/10/17/finger-lakes-2025-wine-region-of-the-year/
🍷 🍷 Expanded Beverage & Food Coverage with FLX Libations Launch
Finger Lakes Libations announced a new partnership with Finger Lakes Community Newspapers to launch a broader food & beverage print magazine series — expanding coverage of local wines, beers, spirits, cideries, and dining experiences with increased reach in 2026. Finger Lakes Libations
🔗 Read More: https://fingerlakeslibations.com/
Bourbon Brunch at Miles Wine Cellars
Enjoy a Bourbon themed brunch at Miles Wine Cellars February 15, 2026. Elevate your day by adding on a Bourbon Tasting for $25. This is a perfect gift for Valentine's day! Read more
Miles Wine Cellars
Open Daily, 10am-5pm.
68 Randall Crossing Rd, Himrod, NY 14842
(607) 243-7742 - http://MilesWineCellars.com/
From Our Blog:
New Year's Resolutions: How to Set & Achieve Your Goals
This is the time of year when many of us set goals for the next year. Sometimes expecting them to last only a few months at best. However, there is a method that you can try to set achievable challenges. Don’t commit to more than one or two items at a time which will allow you to focus and be better prepared for success. Read more.
Organizing To-Do Lists: Best Apps & Digital Strategies
Many of us rely on lists to remind ourselves of shopping items and tasks that need to happen, both at work and at home.
Paper notes are fine, but when you digitize them and sync them to all your devices, you have everything at your fingertips. You will have the added advantage of reminders at specific times.
Take the time to organize yourself and you will not regret it. Here is how. Read more.
New Year's Eve Menu Ideas: Easy Party Appetizers & Drinks for Winter
If you are scrambling for last minute ideas for your big night, look no further. These would also be great for an impromptu party early in 2026, perhaps as a prelude to school resuming. At the end you will find an adult beverage to sustain the parents through the last few days of winter break. Read more
Banish bad ads for good
Google AdSense's Auto ads lets you designate ad-free zones, giving you full control over your site’s layout and ensuring a seamless experience for your visitors. You decide what matters to your users and maintain your site's aesthetic. Google AdSense helps you balance earning with user experience, making it the better way to earn.
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.
01/01/2026 4:00 PM
Pat and Owen are back! Join us from 4-8pm on January 3rd. ...
Birdseye Hollow Farm and Distillery 8398 Birdseye Hollow Rd, Hammondsport, NY 14840, USA
01/02/2026 5:00 PM
Ithaca Gallery Night is a once monthly event where Ithaca galleries and venues present exhibits on the first Friday...
110 N Cayuga St, Ithaca, NY 14850
01/02/2026 6:00 PM
The Ende Brothers will be performing in Weedsport on 1/2/25 from 6-9:00PM You may also like the following events...
Lunkenheimer Craft Brewing Company 8931 N Seneca St, Weedsport, NY 13166
$120 per team
01/03/2026 8:00 AM
1 guy and 1 girl needed for a team. Cost is $120 per team. Message here or Richard Pollock to secure your spot. ...
1 Academic Dr, Corning, NY 14830
$25.00
01/03/2026 1:00 PM
Cacao Ceremony in Canandaigua, NY – Open Your Heart in Sacred Community Join us for a sacred Cacao Ceremony...
142 Mill St, Canandaigua, NY 14424
$150.00
01/03/2026 6:00 PM
Welcome the new year with intention and balance during our two day New Year Wellness Retreat, held in celebration...
The Lake House on Canandaigua 770 S Main St, Canandaigua, NY 14424
01/06/2026 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
01/06/2026 6:00 PM
Join us for a Needle Felting Workshop at Buried Acorn! During this workshop your host, Claire will walk you step by...
The Sherwood Inn, Skaneateles, NY 26 W Genesee St, Skaneateles, NY 13152
01/08/2026 6:00 PM
Open Mic Night for Musicians | Weedsport Taproom Are you a musician who loves to perform live? Join us for Open...
Lunkenheimer Craft Brewing Company 8931 N Seneca St, Weedsport, NY 13166
01/08/2026 6:00 PM
- 6:15-7 Dara Anissi serenades us with strings - 7:15-8 Angela Marion becomes our loop mommy - 8:15-9 Tc Owens and...
208 Farm St, Ithaca, NY 14850
$90pp
01/08/2026 7:00 PM recurs every week
$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
01/09/2026 5:30 PM
St. Baldrick’s Green-Out Basketball Game | Corning Hawks vs. Horseheads Blue Raiders Get ready for an exciting...
Corning Painted Post High School 201 Cantigney St, Corning, NY 14830
01/10/2026 3:00 PM
It’s an Open Mic Birthday Party, and everyone’s invited! Join us at The Moose Lodge for a lively night...
Canandaigua Moose Lodge 305 Ontario St Exd, Canandaigua, NY 14424
01/10/2026 4:00 PM
Chill Weekend Fundraiser | Geneva Breathes (3rd Annual) Join Geneva Breathes for its Third Annual Chill Weekend Fundraiser,...
Temple Beth El 755 S Main St, Geneva, NY 14456
01/10/2026 5:00 PM
Come on out for some great Beer, food, music and great view of Canandaigua Lake! ...
Twisted Rail Brewing Canandaigua Lake 169 Lakeshore Dr, Canandaigua, NY 14424
01/10/2026 6:00 PM
Oliver Burdo has gained a reputation as a unique folk/ blues musician with a base in a lyrical focus. You won’t...
Birdseye Hollow Farm and Distillery 8398 Co Rd 96, Hammondsport, NY 14840
01/10/2026 6:00 PM
FREE live music, a joint show with Brian Ayers & Rocco Sole at Lincoln on Main. Show 6-8pm. All ages. ...
Lincoln On Main 245 S Main St, Canandaigua, NY 14424
01/10/2026 7:00 PM
Step into a 90-minute journey of meditation and sound designed to calm the nervous system, expand awareness, and restore...
129 W Falls St, Ithaca, NY 14850
$44.18
01/10/2026 7:00 PM
Neko Case's authenticity, lyrical storytelling, and sly wit have endeared her to a legion of critics, musicians,...
The Smith Opera House 82 Seneca St, Geneva, NY 14456
FREE
01/16/2026 11:30 AM
Join us for an informative and empowering presentation featuring Triciajean Jones, Director of the Ontario County...
Notre Dame Retreat House 5151 Foster Rd, Canandaigua, NY 14424
$175 - $255
01/16/2026 5:00 PM
Men from all walks of life are invited to join us as we begin our 2026 retreats. This year’s theme, “Holy...
Notre Dame Retreat House 5151 Foster Rd, Canandaigua, NY 14424
$18.05 per child, fees included
01/18/2026 4:30 PM
Wear your PJs, bring a stuffed friend and spend the evening at The Smith! Take a short tour of the theatre, hear a...
The Smith Opera House 82 Seneca St, Geneva, NY 14456
$35
01/20/2026 9:00 AM
The Passion, Death, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ are the definitive moments of human history. But did these foundational...
Notre Dame Retreat House 5151 Foster Rd, Canandaigua, NY 14424
01/23/2026 4:30 PM
That's right folks, we are taking a little break from wine this week to showcase some of our favorite craft spirits...
Bottleland Wine & Spirits 162 William St, Geneva, NY 14456, USA
$175 - $255
01/23/2026 5:00 PM
Men are invited to gather for a weekend of prayer, reflection, and renewal as we continue our 2026 retreats. Centered...
Notre Dame Retreat House 5151 Foster Rd, Canandaigua, NY 14424
$55 per person
01/25/2026 1:00 PM
Moss Art Workshop at Miles Wine Cellars Plants on Main is heading to Miles Wine Cellars for a cozy, creative afternoon!...
Miles Wine Cellars 168 Randall Crossing Rd, Himrod, NY 14842
$12.93
01/26/2026 8:00 PM
Immerse yourself in local talent brought to you by the Finger Lakes! Up & coming Artist, Catmospheric brings...
The Smith Opera House 82 Seneca St, Geneva, NY 14456
by Keuka Roots
30.00
01/31/2026 7:00 PM
A perfect winter outing for book clubs, friend groups, and anyone who is a lover of literary escapes — those...
The Hidden Cork 54 Pulteney St, Hammondsport, NY 14840
$25.00 - $75.00
02/15/2026 10:30 AM
Enjoy a Bourbon themed brunch at Miles Wine Cellars February 15, 2026. Elevate your day by adding on a Bourbon...
Miles Wine Cellars 168 Randall Crossing Rd, Himrod, NY 14842
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
REGISTER BY MARCH 6th! Join us for the “Be A Light Walk-a-thon!” where community members can create or...
FLCC 3325 Marvin Sands Dr, Canandaigua, NY 14424
That’s it for this week.
Here’s to a great 2026 everyone! This year promises to be a productive year at FLC. We will have new updates, features, and promise to keep you updated on news and happenings in our area.
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 Stevens,
Finger Lakes Connected