January 22, 2026

This week's newsletter features updates from local businesses and numerous local events for art, music, food, and wine. Plus lifestyle articles: Starting Plants from Seed, Kids and Swimming Lessons, and Chicken and Peanut Butter.

🌟 Finger Lakes Business & Community News

🏗️ Ithaca secures $38M for SouthWorks: Ithaca’s mayor announced that the city won a $38 million state ACHIEVE grant to rehabilitate the old SouthWorks factory site. The funds will turn the long-dormant factory into a mixed-use neighborhood, paving the way for new housing, offices and community space. Read More

đź›’ Mix Kitchen becomes Modern Ohana (Ithaca): Mix Kitchen & Bar on Elmira Road served its last customers on Jan. 18 and will reopen under a new name and menu. Owner plans call for a rebranding as Modern Ohana, featuring tropical-Asian fusion dishes (the popular cheesy hashbrown casserole will remain on the breakfast menu). Read More

đź›’ Sugar Rush bakery approved in Canandaigua: Canandaigua planning officials unanimously approved a special-use permit for Sugar Rush, a new carry-out bakery at 11 Phoenix St. The permit (voted 6–0) clears the way for Sugar Rush to open its doors serving baked goods in downtown Canandaigua. Read More

Finger Lakes Welcome Center

Victor Medical Group Pharmacy to Host Medication Education Event

The Victor Medical Group Pharmacy invites community members to an evening event where a pharmacist can review their prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, and more to ensure safety and optimal health.

The educational event will take place from 5:30 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 27, at the pharmacy, which is part of F.F. Thompson Hospital and is located at 53 W. Main St.

Attendees are invited to bring their prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, supplements, herbals, and vitamins. The pharmacist will:

  • Check for interactions with other medications

  • Review your medications’ common uses and side effects

  • Ensure you are taking medications correctly

A secured drop box is available on site for those who wish to discard unused/expired medications.

In addition, the hosts will serve light refreshments and provide each attendee with a weekly pill organizer to take home.

RSVP to [email protected] or call (585) 396-6375.

For more information about the Victor pharmacy, visit www.ThompsonHealth.com/Pharmacy.

 

Applications Under Way for Guild Scholarships

This year, the Thompson Health Guild is awarding up to six scholarships – each for $2,000 – to area high school seniors who are pursuing careers in health care.

Scholarship recipients must be registered in a human health-related field and must successfully complete their first college semester with the intent to study the second semester in a human health-related field. 

Eligible districts for the scholarship – based on UR Medicine Thompson Health's service area – are Bloomfield, Canandaigua, Geneva, Honeoye, Honeoye Falls-Lima, Livonia, Marcus Whitman, Midlakes, Mynderse, Naples, Newark, Palmyra-Macedon, Penn Yan, Red Jacket, Victor, and Waterloo.

Online scholarship application forms must be submitted by both the student and the guidance counselor no later than Friday, March 27.  

The Guild is the auxiliary for UR Medicine Thompson Health. The funds it raises help the nonprofit health system expand its facilities, purchase needed equipment and offer helpful programs for patients, senior living residents, staff, and community members.

For more information about the Guild or the scholarship opportunity, visit www.ThompsonHealth.com/Guild.

Wood Library

Where Tradition, Technology and Community Meet

Sunday, January 25 | 1:00-4:00 PM 

Celebrate National Jigsaw Puzzle Day! Bring your old puzzles and exchange them for “new to you” puzzles. If you don’t have a puzzle to exchange, you can purchase a “new to you” puzzle for $3. 

 

ADULT PROGRAMS: 

Monday, January 26 | 6:00-7:30 PM 

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. Register here. 

 

Tuesday, January 27 | 7:00-8:00 PM 

Read and discuss Black Cake by Charmaine Wilkerson. This event is hybrid and is offered both in-person and virtually. Register here. 

 

Wednesday, January 28 | 1:00-3:00 PM 

For persons with Parkinson's disease and caregivers. 

 

CHILDREN PROGRAMS: 

Monday, January 26 | 4:00-5:00 PM 

Meet fellow PokĂ©mon trainers while discussing all things PokĂ©mon and completing PokĂ©mon activities! Bring your own PokĂ©mon Trading Cards if you want to trade.  

 

Tuesday, January 27 | 4:00-5:00 PM 

You know about hibernation and migration, but how do all the animals who don't do either survive the winter? Learn about animal adaptations for cold weather with the Canandaigua Lake Watershed Association and do a craft. Register here. 

 

 

Tuesday, January 27 | 5:15-6:00 PM 

A book club aimed at parents and kids with a focus on chapter books. We will discuss Greenglass House by Kate Milford. 

 

Storytimes 

*Please check the online calendar for up-to-date information. 

Fridays, January 23 | 9:30-10:00 AM 

 

RECURRING PROGRAMS: 

Wood Walkers- Mondays | 9:00-10:00 AM 

Tai Chi- Mondays | 10:00-10:45 AM *cancelled on 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

Roots Cafe

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

Seneca Chamber annual awards: The Seneca County Chamber’s 57th annual awards dinner is set for Jan 22 at Ventosa Vineyards (Waterloo), celebrating local business and community achievements. Montezuma Winery (Waterloo) will receive the 2025 Business of the Year award, and other regional projects (like a community mural) will also be honored. Read More

Featured Cocktails for a limited time, tax included. In tasting room only.

Miles Wine Cellars
Winter Hours:
Open Friday - Sunday, 10am - 5pm.
Closed Monday - Thursday.
68 Randall Crossing Rd, Himrod, NY 14842
(607) 243-7742 - http://MilesWineCellars.com/

Lucas Vineyards

Calling all Cab Franc Lovers! 

Come taste 3 vintages of our Cabernet Franc alongside our winemakers! The wines will be paired with hard cheeses. This event is open to the public and will be on January 31 from 12-4. No charge for Captain’s Table Members. $6 per person for non-members.

From Our Blog:

Starting Plants from Seed: A Beginner’s Guide to Healthy Homegrown Plants

It’s January and the ground is frozen over. Gardening may or may not be on your mind. Starting plants from seeds offers a number of benefits. Seeds are less expensive than plants. This means you can increase the number of plants in your own garden at a lower overall cost. You are able to nurture them in the comfort of your home, allowing a strong root system, which improves the likelihood of successful mature plants. It is also a great opportunity for a family project, involving both kids and adults. Read more.

Kids and Swim Lessons: What Age Should Children Start Swimming?

Okay, it is cold and nasty right now, but before you know it, it will be pool time.  If you have small children or grandchildren, you may be wondering what is a good age to start swimming lessons.  So, we looked to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) for their recommendations. Read more.

MLK Day Desserts: Favorite Sweets Inspired by Martin Luther King Jr.

Peanut butter goes along with more than jelly. Chicken is a staple in most households and here are some ideas of how you can combine the two into tasty meals for yourself, your family, and guests. Just be aware that peanut allergies are more common than you may realize. 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.


$5.00

 01/22/2026 9:30 AM

It’s a new year and honey… ANYTHING GOES! we are taking a short break from shows but, we have an extra... 

 106 S Cayuga St, Ithaca, NY 14850

$40.00/ PP

 01/22/2026 6:00 PM

Event Details Event: Snowbirds — Cozy Winter Paint Night Date: February 26, 2026 — 6:30 PM Location:... 

 The Artist’s Lounge 116 Fall St, Seneca Falls, NY 13148

$90pp

 01/22/2026 7:00 PM recurs every week

 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

 01/23/2026 6:30 PM

we're back, hope your holidays were great! Join us on Fri 1/23 to kick off the opening of Tavern off Main in Canandaigua!... 

 Tavern off Main Canandaigua 6 Phoenix St, Canandaigua, NY 14424

 01/23/2026 8:00 PM

Exciting news! Join us for a memorable evening with the legendary Sheena Easton live in concert. Don't miss this... 

 1133 NY-414, Waterloo, NY 13165

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

 01/24/2026 3:00 PM

Join us for the debut of Leah Brown and The Side Hustle. Featuring Leah from Blue Eyed Soul. The band plays a variety... 

 Birdseye Hollow Farm and Distillery 8398 Co Rd 96, 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

$35.00

 01/24/2026 7:30 PM

The Hangar’s In-Flight Series is proud to bring BENNIE AND THE REST, an exciting concert experience in tribute... 

 801 Taughannock Blvd, Ithaca, NY 14850

$27.00

 01/25/2026 9:30 AM

Flow in what feels good. Activate your inner radiance. Nourish your whole being. Leave empowered and at peace. A... 

 250 Gorham St, Canandaigua, NY 14424

 01/25/2026 9:30 AM

The Wineglass Kids Run is open to young runners ages 3-8 and takes place on the CPP High School turf and track. The... 

 Corning Painted Post High School 201 Cantigney St, Corning, NY 14830

$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

Subject to change depending on signups. $55.00/ PP

 01/26/2026 5:00 PM

ITALIAN DINNER NIGHTS ARE BACK! Please call to reserve your table! Space is limited and Mark’s traditional cooking... 

 110 S Main St, Naples, NY 14512

$5.00 ( Each class )

 01/26/2026 6:00 PM

Strengthen your core, encourage balance, and work toward becoming more flexible and fit. Adult Pilates-Yoga fitness... 

 Shel A Mil 136 N Main St, Naples, NY 14512

$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

 01/27/2026 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

 01/29/2026 11:30 AM

CountryMax Auburn, we’re coming your way! Join us on Thursday, 1/29 and treat yourself to delicious Maine lobster... 

 1651 Clark Street Rd, Auburn, NY 13021

$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

 01/30/2026 7:00 PM

Join us at Lincoln on Main on Friday, January 30th, 2026 for Mud Creek! Doors open at 6pm, show starts at 7pm, all... 

 Lincoln on Main 245 S Main St, Canandaigua, NY 14424

$25.00

 01/31/2026 N/A

Start the new year with live music, wine, and community at "A Taste of Jazz" on Sunday, February 1, at 2... 

 Geneva Public Library 244 Main St, Geneva, NY 14456

 01/31/2026 1:00 PM

Who doesn’t love a good bowl of chili…. Will there be a repeat winner??? Stop in and get your Chili on!!... 

 23 W Main St, Waterloo, NY 13165

 01/31/2026 3:00 PM

StratCat Willie and The Strays are back!! StratCat Willie has been playing the BLUES for close to 60 years with some... 

 Birdseye Hollow Farm and Distillery 8398 Co Rd 96, Hammondsport, NY 14840

$52.00

 01/31/2026 3:00 PM

Join the co-owners of smĂĽ cafe + market — Margo and Jenna — for an interactive health and wellness... 

 85 Chrystie St, New York, NY 10002

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

 02/01/2026 8:00 AM

Join us on Sunday, February 1, 2026, from 8:00–11:00 AM at North Lansing Fire Station #4 for a community pancake... 

 Lansing Fire Department 80 Ridge Rd, Lansing, NY 14882

 02/01/2026 8:00 PM

Join us every Sunday for top Kat karaoke! Karaoke is free. You must be 21+ to participate. ... 

 502 Exchange St, Geneva, NY 14456

 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

Tickets $30.00

 02/07/2026 9:00 AM

Event Details Event : SuperWell Wellness Gathering Date : February 7 — 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM Location :... 

 The Lake House on Canandaigua 770 S Main St, Canandaigua, NY 14424

$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

$5.00 Per Person

 02/10/2026 8:30 AM

Event Details: Event : ONChamber Morning Mixer Date : Sunday, February 21 Time : 9:00 – 10:00 AM (Networking... 

 The Auburn - The Residences at Auburn Trail 160 School St, Victor, NY 14564

$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

Adults/seniors $12.93, Students/youth $8.95

 02/14/2026 7:00 PM

Bring your special someone to this Valentine’s Day screening at The Smith!No sooner does Italian-American widow... 

 The Smith Opera House 82 Seneca St, Geneva, NY 14456

$25.00 - $75.00

Adults/seniors $12.93, Students/youth $8.95

 02/19/2026 2:00 PM

Grease is STILL the word, only now you can join John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John in this sing-along version of... 

 The Smith Opera House 82 Seneca St, Geneva, NY 14456

$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

 02/19/2026 7:00 PM

Grease is STILL the word, only now you can join John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John in this sing-along version of... 

 The Smith Opera House 82 Seneca St, Geneva, NY 14456

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

 02/21/2026 12:00 PM

Event Details Event : Live Music Event with Mark Pariso Date : Sunday, February 21 — 12:00 PM to 3:00 AM... 

 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