- Finger Lakes Connected
- Posts
- January 15, 2026
January 15, 2026
This week's newsletter features updates from local businesses and numerous local events for art, music, food, and wine. Plus lifestyle articles: Comparing Flu and COVID Symptoms, 2026 Color Trends, and MLK Desserts.
Don Stevens
January 15, 2026
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🌟 Finger Lakes Business & Community News
Lakeview Health acquires former bank building in Geneva: Lakeview Health Services has purchased the long-vacant former Five Star Bank building on Seneca Street in Geneva for $300,000. The agency plans to use the nearly 28,000-square-foot space as its central administrative hub, eventually consolidating about 80 employees there. Read More
FOUND vintage marketplace opens in Ithaca’s old factory: FOUND – a beloved Ithaca vintage shop – has reopened in the SouthWorks complex on Ithaca’s West End, moving into the former Morse Chain factory as its first commercial tenant. The larger space now houses nearly all 65 of FOUND’s vendors (with a long waiting list) after Tompkins County purchased the shop’s former Cherry Street building for a planned homeless shelter. Read More
Wells College campus to sell for $12.5M to Indigenous college: Wells College has agreed to sell its former Aurora campus for $12.5 million to the Hiawatha Institute for Indigenous Knowledge. Under the agreement, the institute plans to use about 20% of the site for an Indigenous university, with the remaining space earmarked for housing and other revenue-generating uses. Read More
Living Essence Massage Institute Opens in Trumansburg. On Jan. 13, 2026, Living Essence Massage Institute (LEMI) held a ribbon-cutting at its new facility on Route 96, officially opening a full-time massage therapy school to the Ithaca area. The institute will offer massage therapy training and even a public student clinic. LEMI founder Rachel Hogancamp noted that the new school cements LEMI’s presence in the Finger Lakes community. Read More
New York Awards $20.4M for Finger Lakes Rail Projects. Gov. Kathy Hochul’s administration announced on Jan. 12 that it is providing $20.4 million in state funding to support six freight-rail infrastructure projects in the Finger Lakes region. The grants will improve rail service for manufacturing and agriculture (e.g. new rail connection for a grain facility in Waterloo) and help keep lines like the Arcade & Attica Railroad viable. State officials say the investment will enhance efficiency, safety, and economic opportunities for regional businesses. Read More
Finger Lakes Welcome Center
Thompson Receives Excellence in Spiritual Care Award
UR Medicine Thompson Health recently received the Excellence in Spiritual Care Award (ESCA) from the HealthCare Chaplaincy Network (HCCN).
Janice Lum
Thompson completed a three-step process to earn the award, which the HCCN says signifies an organization is committed to addressing patients’ spiritual and religious needs through the best practices in spiritual care. The HCCN’s standards of excellence include employing an interdisciplinary approach to spiritual care, engaging in quality improvement projects, and the strategic deployment of chaplaincy care resources. According to the HCCN, Thompson is currently the only organization in New York with the ESCA, which remains in effect for two years.
“This award sends the message that Thompson Health is ensuring the delivery of effective professional spiritual care for patients coping with a health crisis,” said Rev. Eric J. Hall, HCCN’s president and CEO. "The work they are doing is appreciated and well received in the community.”
The director of Thompson’s Spiritual Care Department is Rev. Janice Lum, a board-certified chaplain through the Association of Professional Chaplains (APC) who is ordained through the Nazarene denomination. She is also registered nurse who holds a Master of Divinity. Lum is assisted by three staff chaplains, each of whom has a Master of Divinity and at least four units of Clinical Pastoral Education: Rev. Tory Bonners and Austin Turner are both seeking board certification while Rev. Alisa Unell is an APC board-certified chaplain.
Lum said the spiritual wellbeing of patients, residents, families, staff, and community is integrated into her department’s mission, where there is an understanding that physical health is directly related to spiritual and emotional health. The department has been redesigned since the pandemic, Lum added, “with an emphasis placed on professionally trained spiritual caregivers who have endorsement from their governing authorities to practice as chaplains and the required specialty training for health care chaplaincy.”
“As we give spiritual care, we understand each individual is unique and those unique spiritual needs direct our care. This allows us the privilege to care for others at their most difficult times. This is not something we take lightly. The development of this department and the award that has been given are a testimony to the high calling we understand this to be,” Lum said.
Thompson’s Spiritual Care Department offers assistance not only within the 113-bed F.F. Thompson Hospital, but at the health system’s 178-bed M.M. Ewing Continuing Care Center and in outpatient settings as well.
For more information about the recent award, visit www.healthcarechaplaincy.org.
Wood Library
Where Tradition, Technology and Community Meet
The Arcade @ Wood Library
Friday, January 16 | 3:00-6:00 PM
Saturday, January 17 | 10:00 AM-5:00 PM
Sunday, January 18 | 1:00-4:00 PM
Monday, January 19 | 9:00 AM-9:00 PM
Indulge in classic arcade games! Whether you're a seasoned gamer or just curious about the golden age of arcades, we have a game for you. FREE! No ticket required. Just show up and have fun! Sponsored by The Friends of Wood Library.
ADULT PROGRAMS:
Tuesday, January 20 | 2:00-3:00 PM
Read and discuss All the Colors of the Dark by Chris Whitaker. New members welcome.
TEEN PROGRAMS:
Wednesday, January 21 | 4:00-5:15 PM
Bring your own book! Talk about your favorites. Register here.
Wednesday, January 21 | 6:00-8:00 PM
We're starting a winter campaign! We will meet monthly through May. Register here.
CHILDREN PROGRAMS:
Storytimes
*Please check the online calendar for up-to-date information.
Fridays, January 16 & 23 | 9:30-10:00 AM
Thursdays, January 22 | 10:15-10:45 AM
RECURRING PROGRAMS:
Wood Walkers- Mondays | 9:00-10:00 AM
Tai Chi- Mondays | 10:00-10:45 AM *cancelled on 1/19 & 1/26
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.
Join us for our popular brunch!
HOURS:
Thursday to Saturday: LUNCH 11-3, Dinner 5-8
SUNDAY BRUNCH: 10-2pm
Roots Cafe - 585-374-9800 - http://rootscafenaplesny.com
Belhurst Castle and Winery
 |  |
January Special Offer
40% discount on Vinifera Rooms. No restrictions on stay.
Call our front desk at 315-781-0201 ext. 2
🍷 Wine, Beer & Spirits News
Knapp Winery’s 40th Anniversary Sparks New Era of Sustainability. Knapp Winery on Cayuga Lake marked four decades in business this month, highlighting a new chapter under owners Cole and Karen Wilson and winemaker Vanessa Hoffman. According to a Jan. 14 feature, the estate is “honoring its legacy while investing in sustainability, innovation, and expressive cool-climate wines”. The winery helped shape Finger Lakes viticulture history and now plans to modernize operations, from sustainable farming to a newly modernized tasting room. Read More
Weis Vineyards Acquires Caywood Vineyard (renamed Weis-Fournier). Weis Vineyards announced in mid-January the acquisition of the historic Caywood Vineyards on Seneca Lake. The 182-acre property (141 acres planted) will be rebranded as the Weis-Fournier Vineyard, combining the Weis family name with the original founder Charles Fournier’s legacy. According to the Jan. 14 press release, this move expands Weis’s estate and preserves one of the Finger Lakes’ largest contiguous vinifera plantings for future vintners. Weis Vineyards says the deal will grow its estate wine program while continuing to supply fruit to other regional wineries. Read More
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
Moss Art Workshop @ Miles Wine Cellars 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!...by The Smith Center for the Arts, hosted at Miles Wine Cellars.
Miles Wine Cellars 168 Randall Crossing Rd, Himrod, NY 14842
Miles Wine Cellars
Open Daily, 10am-5pm.
68 Randall Crossing Rd, Himrod, NY 14842
(607) 243-7742 - http://MilesWineCellars.com/
From Our Blog:
Comparing Flu and COVID Symptoms: How to Tell the Difference This Winter
Winter is here and with it comes seasonal illnesses, specifically influenza (flu) and COVID. Yes, we still have new cases of COVID cropping up. Read more.
2026 Color Trends: Earthy Neutrals, Natural Greens & Warm Wood Tones for Your Home
This is the time of year we start thinking about how to spruce up some of the rooms of our home. If you are going to go through that much effort, you are probably wondering what will be the key colors and styles for the coming year. Read more.
MLK Day Desserts: Favorite Sweets Inspired by Martin Luther King Jr.
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.
$90pp
01/15/2026 7:00 PM recurs every week
01/16/2026 12:00 AM recurs every day
Downtown Ithaca’s Comfort Food Trail is a cozy winter event running January 16 – February 1 that invites...
171 E State St, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA
$8.00/adult, $6.00/ seniors & $4.00/ children
01/16/2026 11:00 AM recurs every week
Discover a unique, immersive experience with Orbital – Digital Dome Show at the Digital Dome Theater ...
1 Academic Dr, Corning, NY 14830
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
$15.00
01/17/2026 8:00 AM
Get ready for a full day of outdoor adventure at Yeti Games 2026 , a high-energy winter community event hosted...
7131 Gulick Rd, Naples, NY 14512
$45 per car plus $20 for weekend membership
01/17/2026 2:00 PM
A rally of approx. 170 rally miles using mostly unpaved roads in the southern part of Central New York. Equipped,...
Chili's Grill & Bar (Ithaca, NY) 608 S Meadow St, Ithaca, NY 14850
$40 per person
01/18/2026 2:00 PM
Join us for a Succulent Terrarium Workshop at The Sherwood Inn! During this workshop, your host, Lindsay, will walk...
The Sherwood Inn 26 W Genesee St, Skaneateles, NY 13152
$10.00
01/18/2026 3:00 PM
The World-Famous Harlem Wizards want to invite you and the whole family to join them for a night of tricks, hoops,...
Watkins Glen Central High School 33 Watkins Ave, Perry, NY 14530
$18.05 per child, fees included
01/18/2026 4:30 PM
Looking for unique things to do in Geneva, NY with kids this winter? The Stuffed Animal Slumber Party at The...
The Smith Opera House 82 Seneca St, Geneva, NY 14456
$18.05
01/18/2026 8:30 PM recurs every day
Wear your PJs, bring a stuffed friend and spend the evening at The Smith! Take a short tour of the theatre, hear a...
82 Seneca St, Geneva, NY 14456, USA
$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
01/20/2026 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
01/23/2026 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 meaningful weekend of prayer, reflection, and spiritual renewal as we continue our...
Notre Dame Retreat House 5151 Foster Rd, Canandaigua, NY 14424
by Keuka Roots
Tickets start at $10.38
01/24/2026 1:00 PM
Frost & Fire: A Winter Gathering Rooted in Community, Warmth, and Giving Back Hammondsport, NY — Winter...
Hammondsport Fire Dept 8521 NY-54, Hammondsport, NY 14840
adults & seniors $12.93, students & youth $8.95
01/24/2026 7:00 PM
The Smith's Staff Pick film for the month of January. Stake Your Claim to the Musical Goldmine of ’69! In...
The Smith Opera House 82 Seneca Street Geneva, NY 14456
$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
$55.00/ PP
$12.93
01/26/2026 8:00 PM
Experience an intimate night of live music in Geneva, NY as the Smith Winter Cabaret Series continues...
The Smith Opera House 82 Seneca St, Geneva, NY 14456
$55.00 for 2.25 Hours and two teachers.
01/30/2026 4:00 PM
Candlelight Deep Restorative Yoga w/ Reiki — Bloomfield - Date: January 30, 2026 — 4:00 PM to...
Grounded by Yoga: Bloomfield 1 Wellness Wy, Bloomfield, NY 14469
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
02/06/2026 11:00 AM
LeTourneau Christian Center’s Blessed Hope February Ladies Luncheon will be held on Friday, February 6 at 11:00...
LeTourneau Christian Center 4950 East Lake Road, Rushville, NY 14544, USA
$12.93
02/09/2026 8:00 PM
Immerse yourself in local talent brought to you by the Finger Lakes! Athena Rajnai is a keenly observant poet whose...
The Smith Opera House 82 Seneca St, Geneva, NY 14456
$35
02/11/2026 9:00 AM
Join us for a meaningful "Fill Your Soul Day" This retreat offers a contemplative journey inspired...
Notre Dame Retreat House 5151 Foster Rd, Canandaigua, NY 14424
$325 / Couple
02/13/2026 5:00 PM
Celebrate Love This Valentine’s Weekend! Looking for a meaningful way to celebrate Valentine’s Day together?...
Notre Dame Retreat House 5151 Foster Rd, Canandaigua, NY 14424
$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
$75.00
$75.00
02/19/2026 7:00 PM
Just Begin: Intro to Yoga for Beginners Start Date : February 19, 2026 Time : 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm ...
Grounded by Yoga 514 S Main St, Canandaigua, NY 14424
FREE
02/20/2026 11:30 AM
Join us for our FREE Senior Luncheon on Friday, February 20th, for a warm and welcoming afternoon of good food and...
Notre Dame Retreat House 5151 Foster Rd, Canandaigua, NY 14424
$15.00 - $20.00
02/21/2026 10:00 AM
Winter Cycle Therapy at the Curtiss Museum roars back this February for an unforgettable weekend celebrating motorcycles,...
Glenn H. Curtiss Museum 8419 NY-54, Hammondsport, NY 14840
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
$79.00 (first 6 registrants only)
03/06/2026 9:30 AM
Event Details Bloomfield Location (1 Wellness Way) Program: Tai Chi for Wellness – Level 1 Focus: ...
1 Wellness Wy, Bloomfield, NY 14469
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