Farewell from Emily
REFLECTION

Farewell from Emily

Farewell from Maria
REFLECTION

Farewell from Maria

In Rochester, we are always thinking about our neighbors
INTERVIEW NO. 250

In Rochester, we are always thinking about our neighbors

Zaria Gibson-Stevenson loves how eager Rochesterians are to come together and volunteer
INTERVIEW NO. 249

Zaria Gibson-Stevenson loves how eager Rochesterians are to come together and volunteer

Social worker Edgar SantaCruz loves working collaboratively to help others
INTERVIEW NO. 248

Social worker Edgar SantaCruz loves working collaboratively to help others

Nonprofit professional Nia Jones appreciates how down to earth Rochester is
INTERVIEW NO. 247

Nonprofit professional Nia Jones appreciates how down to earth Rochester is

Melissa VanHeukelum loves giving back in the community and uplifting artists and small business owners
INTERVIEW NO. 246

Melissa VanHeukelum loves giving back in the community and uplifting artists and small business owners

Artist Carla Halstead is filling Rochester with peace cranes
INTERVIEW NO. 245

Artist Carla Halstead is filling Rochester with peace cranes

Marie-Adélina de la Ferrière loves celebrating the art & herstory of drag in Rochester
INTERVIEW NO. 244

Marie-Adélina de la Ferrière loves celebrating the art & herstory of drag in Rochester

Photographer Jackie McGriff loves how in Rochester people are eager to support and cheer for each other
INTERVIEW NO. 243

Photographer Jackie McGriff loves how in Rochester people are eager to support and cheer for each other

Marylander Taylor Thomas has found a lot to love in quirky & creative Rochester
INTERVIEW NO. 242

Marylander Taylor Thomas has found a lot to love in quirky & creative Rochester

Ben Baker appreciates the inclusive and welcoming nature of Rochester’s music scene
INTERVIEW NO. 241

Ben Baker appreciates the inclusive and welcoming nature of Rochester’s music scene

Teacher Richard Colón is catching up on all that Rochester has to offer
INTERVIEW NO. 240

Teacher Richard Colón is catching up on all that Rochester has to offer

Brandin Jones is an equity warrior and he’s eager to bring people along on the journey
INTERVIEW NO. 239

Brandin Jones is an equity warrior and he’s eager to bring people along on the journey

Joy Bergfalk is helping women recover from addiction through work in the coffee industry
INTERVIEW NO. 238

Joy Bergfalk is helping women recover from addiction through work in the coffee industry

Public relations pro Jessica Lewis sees Rochester as always evolving
INTERVIEW NO. 237

Public relations pro Jessica Lewis sees Rochester as always evolving

Young leaders from CLIMB are learning, growing, and striving for a better Rochester–together
INTERVIEW NO. 236

Young leaders from CLIMB are learning, growing, and striving for a better Rochester–together

Entrepreneur Amorette Miller appreciates Rochester’s legacy of caring about workers’ rights
INTERVIEW NO. 235

Entrepreneur Amorette Miller appreciates Rochester’s legacy of caring about workers’ rights

Reporter Michael Schwartz has fallen in love with Rochester and his work as a morning feature reporter
INTERVIEW NO. 234

Reporter Michael Schwartz has fallen in love with Rochester and his work as a morning feature reporter

Storytelling enthusiast Alexis Russell says we’re all walking stories
INTERVIEW NO. 233

Storytelling enthusiast Alexis Russell says we’re all walking stories

For Black Americans, Freedom is Conditional
SHORT STORY

For Black Americans, Freedom is Conditional

Sarah Clark loves Abbott’s ice cream and supporting an ecosystem of women running for office
INTERVIEW NO. 232

Sarah Clark loves Abbott’s ice cream and supporting an ecosystem of women running for office

Musician Zahyia Rolle loves Bahamian food and Rochester’s diverse music scene
INTERVIEW NO. 231

Musician Zahyia Rolle loves Bahamian food and Rochester’s diverse music scene

Music director Ward Stare believes risk taking and creative thinking are essential
INTERVIEW NO. 230

Music director Ward Stare believes risk taking and creative thinking are essential

Architecture, food, music – Amanda Falzone loves it all!
INTERVIEW NO. 229

Architecture, food, music – Amanda Falzone loves it all!

From the countryside to the city, Evanna DiSalvo loves helping new Americans in Maplewood
INTERVIEW NO. 228

From the countryside to the city, Evanna DiSalvo loves helping new Americans in Maplewood

State Senate candidate Samra Brouk loves almond milk hot chocolate and Rochester’s open-hearted people
INTERVIEW NO. 227

State Senate candidate Samra Brouk loves almond milk hot chocolate and Rochester’s open-hearted people

Zaaqi Johnson is cooking up gourmet burgers in the 19th Ward
INTERVIEW NO. 226

Zaaqi Johnson is cooking up gourmet burgers in the 19th Ward

Heather Balonek loves bird watching and countryside drives
INTERVIEW NO. 225

Heather Balonek loves bird watching and countryside drives

Business owner Tricia TenEyck feels like she’s part of something here in Rochester
INTERVIEW NO. 224

Business owner Tricia TenEyck feels like she’s part of something here in Rochester

Photographer & meme enthusiast Quajay Donnell captures Rochester’s vibrant public art scene through photos
INTERVIEW NO. 223

Photographer & meme enthusiast Quajay Donnell captures Rochester’s vibrant public art scene through photos

Kevin Wilson loves building community and exploring our city by bike
INTERVIEW NO. 222

Kevin Wilson loves building community and exploring our city by bike

Business owner Corey Russell loves winter and running a cozy yoga studio for kindhearted humans
INTERVIEW NO. 221

Business owner Corey Russell loves winter and running a cozy yoga studio for kindhearted humans

Animator Noelle Brandmier has a passion project: a blog where she pairs wine with games
INTERVIEW NO. 220

Animator Noelle Brandmier has a passion project: a blog where she pairs wine with games

Adrian Hale grew up in the 14621 and is passionate about serving his community
INTERVIEW NO. 219

Adrian Hale grew up in the 14621 and is passionate about serving his community

Man of many talents Chris Thompson loves capoeira, comedy, and Rochester’s history
INTERVIEW NO. 218

Man of many talents Chris Thompson loves capoeira, comedy, and Rochester’s history

Robert Hoggard is passionate about activism and enjoys Rochester’s diverse food scene
INTERVIEW NO. 217

Robert Hoggard is passionate about activism and enjoys Rochester’s diverse food scene

Christy Roushey loves the beautiful fabric of Rochester
INTERVIEW NO. 216

Christy Roushey loves the beautiful fabric of Rochester

Ana Liss shares garbage plate history & emphasizes the need for inclusion in the business community
INTERVIEW NO. 215

Ana Liss shares garbage plate history & emphasizes the need for inclusion in the business community

Monroe County Legislator Rachel Barnhart advocates for ethical, transparent local government
INTERVIEW NO. 214

Monroe County Legislator Rachel Barnhart advocates for ethical, transparent local government

Emmarae Stein & Krit Upra are putting Rochester on the map with Floated Magazine
INTERVIEW NO. 213

Emmarae Stein & Krit Upra are putting Rochester on the map with Floated Magazine

Jeremy Cooney reminds us that winter is just another season—not a mourning period
INTERVIEW NO. 212

Jeremy Cooney reminds us that winter is just another season—not a mourning period

Lego man R.O. Chester encourages us to take pride in our city
INTERVIEW NO. 211

Lego man R.O. Chester encourages us to take pride in our city

Business owner Nick Giordano loves how small businesses in Rochester help each other grow and thrive
INTERVIEW NO. 210

Business owner Nick Giordano loves how small businesses in Rochester help each other grow and thrive

Marketing & advertising professional Erica Hickey loves Wegmans subs and Rochester’s music scene
INTERVIEW NO. 209

Marketing & advertising professional Erica Hickey loves Wegmans subs and Rochester’s music scene

Country girl Kelly Kester has found home in Rochester
INTERVIEW NO. 208

Country girl Kelly Kester has found home in Rochester

For Camila Jimenez, it’s all about the power of home
INTERVIEW NO. 207

For Camila Jimenez, it’s all about the power of home

Meaningful service in Rochester: a visit from an AmeriCorps NCCC team
INTERVIEW NO. 206

Meaningful service in Rochester: a visit from an AmeriCorps NCCC team

Rachel McKibbens encourages Rochesterians to find human connection by listening to stories
INTERVIEW NO. 205

Rachel McKibbens encourages Rochesterians to find human connection by listening to stories

Kristin Pelc-Pacheco is helping create a home for genre films in Rochester through Anomaly Film Festival
INTERVIEW NO. 204

Kristin Pelc-Pacheco is helping create a home for genre films in Rochester through Anomaly Film Festival

On Leaving for College & Finding Home
SHORT STORY

On Leaving for College & Finding Home

Resilience in the face of fire: Misfit Doughnuts gets a new start in the South Wedge
INTERVIEW NO. 203

Resilience in the face of fire: Misfit Doughnuts gets a new start in the South Wedge

Chris D’Orso has recently returned to Upstate NY and is loving the easy access to everything
INTERVIEW NO. 202

Chris D’Orso has recently returned to Upstate NY and is loving the easy access to everything

Melissa Orioli loves getting acquainted with Rochester through food
INTERVIEW NO. 201

Melissa Orioli loves getting acquainted with Rochester through food

Genny Tales: A Look at Genesee Brewery, a Rochester Icon
INTERVIEW NO. 200

Genny Tales: A Look at Genesee Brewery, a Rochester Icon

Activist Rana Sulieman encourages people to get out of their comfort zones, embrace culture, & go exploring
INTERVIEW NO. 199

Activist Rana Sulieman encourages people to get out of their comfort zones, embrace culture, & go exploring

Funny ladies Gracie & Maddy of Saunt Yubear think Rochester and Lizzo have a lot in common
INTERVIEW NO. 198

Funny ladies Gracie & Maddy of Saunt Yubear think Rochester and Lizzo have a lot in common

Alex Goettel loves being part of Rochester’s thriving music scene
INTERVIEW NO. 197

Alex Goettel loves being part of Rochester’s thriving music scene

Harmeet Kaur loves how Rochester’s food scene brings people of all different backgrounds together
INTERVIEW NO. 196

Harmeet Kaur loves how Rochester’s food scene brings people of all different backgrounds together

Rivajeta Rene loves how Rochester is a true melting pot
INTERVIEW NO. 195

Rivajeta Rene loves how Rochester is a true melting pot

Happy 3rd Birthday, Kiva Rochester!
INTERVIEW NO. 194

Happy 3rd Birthday, Kiva Rochester!

Buffalo native Cris Van Grol loves that you can connect with others and have an impact in Rochester
INTERVIEW NO. 193

Buffalo native Cris Van Grol loves that you can connect with others and have an impact in Rochester

Boomerang Nina Piccini is glad to be back in Rochester and appreciates the level of connection among people
INTERVIEW NO. 192

Boomerang Nina Piccini is glad to be back in Rochester and appreciates the level of connection among people

Jen McClure is a beet-loving eskimo who loves supporting small businesses
INTERVIEW NO. 191

Jen McClure is a beet-loving eskimo who loves supporting small businesses

Storyteller Penny Sterling makes a fantastic homemade garbage plate
INTERVIEW NO. 190

Storyteller Penny Sterling makes a fantastic homemade garbage plate

Happy 4th Birthday to Us!
REFLECTION BY EMILY HESSNEY LYNCH

Happy 4th Birthday to Us!

New Zealand native Mike Johansson has found lots to love in Rochester
INTERVIEW NO. 188

New Zealand native Mike Johansson has found lots to love in Rochester

Good memories of garbage plates & the Rush Fireman’s Carnival are quintessentially Rochester for Molly Stark
INTERVIEW NO. 187

Good memories of garbage plates & the Rush Fireman’s Carnival are quintessentially Rochester for Molly Stark

Sara Snyder of Rochacha Mama will drive anywhere to share a new experience with her kids
INTERVIEW NO. 186

Sara Snyder of Rochacha Mama will drive anywhere to share a new experience with her kids

The Genesee Country Village & Museum in Mumford is something special for the region
INTERVIEW NO. 185

The Genesee Country Village & Museum in Mumford is something special for the region

For Alyssa Belasco, staying in Rochester is a no-brainer
INTERVIEW NO. 184

For Alyssa Belasco, staying in Rochester is a no-brainer

City Councilmember Mitch Gruber believes studying history is essential to diagnosing social issues and creating change
INTERVIEW NO. 183

City Councilmember Mitch Gruber believes studying history is essential to diagnosing social issues and creating change

Ron Martin-Dent shares his fond memories of walking around Rochester through all the seasons
INTERVIEW NO. 182

Ron Martin-Dent shares his fond memories of walking around Rochester through all the seasons

Author Leslie C. Youngblood loves the simultaneous sense of newness and familiarity she found upon return to Rochester
INTERVIEW NO. 181

Author Leslie C. Youngblood loves the simultaneous sense of newness and familiarity she found upon return to Rochester

Documentary photographer Michele Ashlee aims to tell the stories of Rochesterians made to feel marginalized
INTERVIEW NO. 180

Documentary photographer Michele Ashlee aims to tell the stories of Rochesterians made to feel marginalized

Market memories, food, and family make Rochester home for blogger Stephanie Hanna
INTERVIEW NO. 179

Market memories, food, and family make Rochester home for blogger Stephanie Hanna

Iraq to Rochester, to Silicon Valley, and back to #ROC again. The quality of life drew Ali Ali back.
INTERVIEW NO. 178

Iraq to Rochester, to Silicon Valley, and back to #ROC again. The quality of life drew Ali Ali back.

Artist Corinne Fallone is continuing to push herself to explore her city
INTERVIEW NO. 177

Artist Corinne Fallone is continuing to push herself to explore her city

Entrepreneur + creative Abigail Jamison Clark believes collaboration is a means to greatness
INTERVIEW NO. 176

Entrepreneur + creative Abigail Jamison Clark believes collaboration is a means to greatness

Entrepreneur Rosa Marie values all the opportunities Rochester has to offer
INTERVIEW NO. 175

Entrepreneur Rosa Marie values all the opportunities Rochester has to offer

Journalist Veronica Volk appreciates how unpretentious Rochester is
INTERVIEW NO. 174

Journalist Veronica Volk appreciates how unpretentious Rochester is

Taurus Savant believes a city can never have too much art
INTERVIEW NO. 173

Taurus Savant believes a city can never have too much art

Voula Katsetos, owner of Voula’s Greek Sweets, loves the camaraderie among local restaurants
INTERVIEW NO. 172

Voula Katsetos, owner of Voula’s Greek Sweets, loves the camaraderie among local restaurants

Friendly neighborhood Twitter guy, Brian Halligan, loves sharing positivity about the North Winton Village
INTERVIEW NO. 171

Friendly neighborhood Twitter guy, Brian Halligan, loves sharing positivity about the North Winton Village

Webster native Kelsey Schmid remembers the Midtown Monorail days and commemorates local landmarks in her art
INTERVIEW NO. 170

Webster native Kelsey Schmid remembers the Midtown Monorail days and commemorates local landmarks in her art

Entrepreneur & yogi Liza Savage-Katz had to leave & come back to see the magic that’s here in Rochester
INTERVIEW NO. 169

Entrepreneur & yogi Liza Savage-Katz had to leave & come back to see the magic that’s here in Rochester

Mural artist Justin Suarez (AKA Mr. Prvrt) talks meeting people, hearing stories, and applying yourself
INTERVIEW NO. 168

Mural artist Justin Suarez (AKA Mr. Prvrt) talks meeting people, hearing stories, and applying yourself

ROC enthusiast and Kristen Wiig’s cousin, Megan Colombo, thinks our generation is game for Rochester
INTERVIEW NO. 167

ROC enthusiast and Kristen Wiig’s cousin, Megan Colombo, thinks our generation is game for Rochester

Laura Mack has chosen her city plates place
INTERVIEW NO. 166

Laura Mack has chosen her city plates place

Artist Michala Schram finds inspiration at Wegmans and beyond
INTERVIEW NO. 165

Artist Michala Schram finds inspiration at Wegmans and beyond

Artist Jen Perena was able to see Rochester with a fresh set of eyes after living elsewhere
INTERVIEW NO. 164

Artist Jen Perena was able to see Rochester with a fresh set of eyes after living elsewhere

Mike & Michelle Weston are big fans of Rochester’s supportive culture
INTERVIEW NO. 163

Mike & Michelle Weston are big fans of Rochester’s supportive culture

Jessica Valence adores how neighborly Rochesterians are
INTERVIEW NO. 162

Jessica Valence adores how neighborly Rochesterians are

Scotty Ginett believes that with a community-focused, collaborative effort, we can improve Rochester
INTERVIEW NO. 161

Scotty Ginett believes that with a community-focused, collaborative effort, we can improve Rochester

Library Director Patty Uttaro sees Rochester as an adventure
INTERVIEW NO. 160

Library Director Patty Uttaro sees Rochester as an adventure

DJ Andrew Kabutey Caesar appreciates Rochester’s skyline, sushi, and top-notch people
INTERVIEW NO. 159

DJ Andrew Kabutey Caesar appreciates Rochester’s skyline, sushi, and top-notch people

The Herstory of Drag & its Place in Rochester
Short Story, Marie-Adélina de la Ferrière

The Herstory of Drag & its Place in Rochester

Artist Renee Mendler loves Rochester’s changing seasons and fall festivals
INTERVIEW NO. 158

Artist Renee Mendler loves Rochester’s changing seasons and fall festivals

FRIGHT-RAGS Founder Ben Scrivens loves fueling the horror community through t-shirts
INTERVIEW NO. 157

FRIGHT-RAGS Founder Ben Scrivens loves fueling the horror community through t-shirts

Maker Hannah Corey loves picnics, sunsets, and sewing handmade hats in Rochester, NY
INTERVIEW NO. 156

Maker Hannah Corey loves picnics, sunsets, and sewing handmade hats in Rochester, NY

Designers Anne Jordan & Mitch Goldstein love the pace, the people, and the relaxed nature of Rochester
INTERVIEW NO. 155

Designers Anne Jordan & Mitch Goldstein love the pace, the people, and the relaxed nature of Rochester

Arts administrator Amanda Chestnut advocates for accessibility in the community
INTERVIEW NO. 154

Arts administrator Amanda Chestnut advocates for accessibility in the community

Photographer & musician Jon Gary appreciates the confluence of things that makes Rochester a unique place to live
INTERVIEW NO. 153

Photographer & musician Jon Gary appreciates the confluence of things that makes Rochester a unique place to live

Musician & marketer Simona Benenati is inspired by how much Rochester loves the arts
INTERVIEW NO. 152

Musician & marketer Simona Benenati is inspired by how much Rochester loves the arts

Designer & strategist Maureen Ballatori loves giving back to the community
INTERVIEW NO. 151

Designer & strategist Maureen Ballatori loves giving back to the community

Festival producer Erica Fee has a passion for living life on the Fringe
INTERVIEW NO. 150

Festival producer Erica Fee has a passion for living life on the Fringe

Doula Bridget Strub reminds us to take care of ourselves
INTERVIEW NO. 149

Doula Bridget Strub reminds us to take care of ourselves

Curator Lisa Hostetler wants you to slow down to experience photographs in physical spaces
INTERVIEW NO. 148

Curator Lisa Hostetler wants you to slow down to experience photographs in physical spaces

Reporter Will Cleveland appreciates Rochester’s awesome melange of people
INTERVIEW NO. 147

Reporter Will Cleveland appreciates Rochester’s awesome melange of people

Chloe Corcoran says community support can make a huge difference
INTERVIEW NO. 146

Chloe Corcoran says community support can make a huge difference

Artist Gretel Hepler encourages you to step out, be brave, and connect with others
INTERVIEW NO. 145

Artist Gretel Hepler encourages you to step out, be brave, and connect with others

Becca Bellush appreciates our easy access to hiking + nature in ROC
INTERVIEW NO. 144

Becca Bellush appreciates our easy access to hiking + nature in ROC

The Beloved Park Avenue: A Neighborhood Guide
NEIGHBORHOOD GUIDE

The Beloved Park Avenue: A Neighborhood Guide

Designer Kara Austin loves how Rochester embraces the weird
INTERVIEW NO. 143

Designer Kara Austin loves how Rochester embraces the weird

Social entrepreneur Calvin Eaton has created a communiversity in the Susan B. Anthony neighborhood
INTERVIEW NO. 142

Social entrepreneur Calvin Eaton has created a communiversity in the Susan B. Anthony neighborhood

Artist Molly O’Riley thinks you’re darling
INTERVIEW NO. 141

Artist Molly O’Riley thinks you’re darling

Dennis O’Brien wants to create opportunities and meaningful change in Rochester
INTERVIEW NO. 140

Dennis O’Brien wants to create opportunities and meaningful change in Rochester

Melanie Collins of Expedition Husky encourages Rochesterians to get out and enjoy our parks—and to keep them beautiful
INTERVIEW NO. 139

Melanie Collins of Expedition Husky encourages Rochesterians to get out and enjoy our parks—and to keep them beautiful

Animal lover Anna Simpson has found a lot to love in Rochester
INTERVIEW NO. 138

Animal lover Anna Simpson has found a lot to love in Rochester

Reporter Jake Clapp is a Fringe Fest fanatic who loves Rochester’s history
INTERVIEW NO. 137

Reporter Jake Clapp is a Fringe Fest fanatic who loves Rochester’s history

Model Mandy Ukshe loves being adventurous in Rochester
INTERVIEW NO. 136

Model Mandy Ukshe loves being adventurous in Rochester

History and Community in the North Winton Village: A Neighborhood Guide
NEIGHBORHOOD GUIDE

History and Community in the North Winton Village: A Neighborhood Guide

Siena Pullinzi loves Halloween, art, and exploring Rochester’s eateries
INTERVIEW NO. 135

Siena Pullinzi loves Halloween, art, and exploring Rochester’s eateries

Debora is a civic-minded cheerleader for lifelong learning
INTERVIEW NO. 134

Debora is a civic-minded cheerleader for lifelong learning

Potter Peter Pincus loves Japanese Maple trees, Rochester’s architectural diversity, and giving back to the local arts community
INTERVIEW NO. 133

Potter Peter Pincus loves Japanese Maple trees, Rochester’s architectural diversity, and giving back to the local arts community

Flowers, Food, and Fun (Oh My!)
Short Story, Miriam C. Zinter

Flowers, Food, and Fun (Oh My!)

Tattoo artist TeeJay Dill loves sunrise walks & Rochester’s unique geography
INTERVIEW NO. 132

Tattoo artist TeeJay Dill loves sunrise walks & Rochester’s unique geography

Artist Dave Pollot creates altered thrift art paintings and loves Rochester’s resiliency
INTERVIEW NO. 131

Artist Dave Pollot creates altered thrift art paintings and loves Rochester’s resiliency

From hiking trails to ethno-chaos concerts, Reagan McNameeKing thinks Rochester has it all
INTERVIEW NO. 130

From hiking trails to ethno-chaos concerts, Reagan McNameeKing thinks Rochester has it all

Tech guy Ian Allheim thinks Rochester is on the up-and-up
INTERVIEW NO. 129

Tech guy Ian Allheim thinks Rochester is on the up-and-up

Artist Mandi Antonucci is inspired by nature, art galleries, and bookstores
INTERVIEW NO. 128

Artist Mandi Antonucci is inspired by nature, art galleries, and bookstores

Tea guru Niraj Lama teaches Rochester to take time for tea
Short Story, Leaf Tea Bar

Tea guru Niraj Lama teaches Rochester to take time for tea

RoCo wants YOU to #daretosquare for 6×6
INTERVIEW NO. 127

RoCo wants YOU to #daretosquare for 6×6

Michele Liddle of The Perfect Granola is creating a better world through food and love
INTERVIEW NO. 125

Michele Liddle of The Perfect Granola is creating a better world through food and love

Educator Cara Rager loves discovering Rochester’s hidden gems
INTERVIEW NO. 126

Educator Cara Rager loves discovering Rochester’s hidden gems

Liza Sullivan & Ashley Cellura of EvenOdd love making and trying new things
INTERVIEW NO. 124

Liza Sullivan & Ashley Cellura of EvenOdd love making and trying new things

Jeremy Moule loves watching the waves crash on Lake Ontario in the winter
INTERVIEW NO. 123

Jeremy Moule loves watching the waves crash on Lake Ontario in the winter

933 the U is building community in the Neighborhood of the Arts
INTERVIEW NO. 122

933 the U is building community in the Neighborhood of the Arts

The MAG: A Hypothetical Story
Short Story, Beth Larter

The MAG: A Hypothetical Story

Artist and Maker Anna Vos of Owl Post Lettering loves Rochester’s small community feel
INTERVIEW NO. 121

Artist and Maker Anna Vos of Owl Post Lettering loves Rochester’s small community feel

Cameron Community Ministries is a hidden gem that doesn’t want to be hidden!
INTERVIEW NO. 120

Cameron Community Ministries is a hidden gem that doesn’t want to be hidden!

Surviving Winter in the South Wedge: A Neighborhood Guide
NEIGHBORHOOD GUIDE

Surviving Winter in the South Wedge: A Neighborhood Guide

Public media advocate Danielle Abramson Swartz loves Rochester’s culture
INTERVIEW NO. 119

Public media advocate Danielle Abramson Swartz loves Rochester’s culture

Musician & solar installer Garth Clark finds beauty in our cold weather
INTERVIEW NO. 118

Musician & solar installer Garth Clark finds beauty in our cold weather

Graphic designer & letterpress printer Rachel Oatridge loves ROC’s collaborative atmosphere
INTERVIEW NO. 117

Graphic designer & letterpress printer Rachel Oatridge loves ROC’s collaborative atmosphere

Adventurer & volunteer Andrew Brady encourages us to be co-authors of Rochester’s future
INTERVIEW NO. 116

Adventurer & volunteer Andrew Brady encourages us to be co-authors of Rochester’s future

Urban winery Living Roots shares unique FLX & Aussie wines with ROC
INTERVIEW NO. 115

Urban winery Living Roots shares unique FLX & Aussie wines with ROC

Podcaster and curler Chris Lindstrom loves exploring Rochester’s food scene
INTERVIEW NO. 114

Podcaster and curler Chris Lindstrom loves exploring Rochester’s food scene

2017 in Review
YEAR END REVIEW

2017 in Review

B-corp SunCommon is committed to doing great work with great people
INTERVIEW NO. 113

B-corp SunCommon is committed to doing great work with great people

Software developer & entrepreneur Brandon Vulaj loves local food, drink, & coffee
INTERVIEW NO. 112

Software developer & entrepreneur Brandon Vulaj loves local food, drink, & coffee

Fair trade store One World Goods celebrates 30 in Rochester
INTERVIEW NO. 111

Fair trade store One World Goods celebrates 30 in Rochester

Graphic designer & community organizer Renée Heininger makes a difference in her community
INTERVIEW NO. 110

Graphic designer & community organizer Renée Heininger makes a difference in her community

10 Things ROC is Thankful For
HAPPY THANKSGIVING

10 Things ROC is Thankful For

Vlogger & accessory stylist Hope Breen loves helping locals become tourists
INTERVIEW NO. 109

Vlogger & accessory stylist Hope Breen loves helping locals become tourists

Designer & editor Eric C. Wilder shares his favorite parks, cideries, and trails in and around #ROC
INTERVIEW NO. 108

Designer & editor Eric C. Wilder shares his favorite parks, cideries, and trails in and around #ROC

Staff members and librarians from University of Rochester River Campus Libraries share their perspectives on life in Rochester.
INTERVIEW NO. 107

Staff members and librarians from University of Rochester River Campus Libraries share their perspectives on life in Rochester.

FLCC student and urban explorer Dan McMorrow is riding the wave of Rochester progress.
COLLEGE STUDENTS HEART ROC, INTERVIEW NO. 106

FLCC student and urban explorer Dan McMorrow is riding the wave of Rochester progress.

Bilingual Snapchat Storyteller Chad T. Krohn (MeowChickenFish) is using his platform and the Rochester community to teach Deaf Culture.
INTERVIEW NO. 105

Bilingual Snapchat Storyteller Chad T. Krohn (MeowChickenFish) is using his platform and the Rochester community to teach Deaf Culture.

Musician Aaron Rizzo is silently flourishing in Rochester while creating his own music.
INTERVIEW NO. 104

Musician Aaron Rizzo is silently flourishing in Rochester while creating his own music.

Rochester transplant Elise Miklich is all about taking in all the Rochester views.
INTERVIEW NO. 103

Rochester transplant Elise Miklich is all about taking in all the Rochester views.

Art therapist Shannon Halligan feels connected enough to offer her unique skills to the Rochester community.
INTERVIEW NO. 102

Art therapist Shannon Halligan feels connected enough to offer her unique skills to the Rochester community.

Comedian/Thespian/Librarian Abby DeVuyst is all about living Rochester life on the fringe.
INTERVIEW NO. 101

Comedian/Thespian/Librarian Abby DeVuyst is all about living Rochester life on the fringe.

100 Things to Love About Rochester
TO DO, LIST, FEATURE

100 Things to Love About Rochester

Women’s rights activist and rebel Susan B. Anthony inspires us to continue to fight for what we believe in.
INTERVIEW NO. 100

Women’s rights activist and rebel Susan B. Anthony inspires us to continue to fight for what we believe in.

News producer Scott Fairbanks is inspired by Rochester’s continuous search for a sense of purpose.
INTERVIEW NO. 99

News producer Scott Fairbanks is inspired by Rochester’s continuous search for a sense of purpose.

Software engineer and fashion blogger Abeer Kadhem feels completely at home in Rochester.
INTERVIEW NO. 98

Software engineer and fashion blogger Abeer Kadhem feels completely at home in Rochester.

Musician Seth Faergolzia is feeling the support of the Rochester music community.
INTERVIEW NO. 97

Musician Seth Faergolzia is feeling the support of the Rochester music community.

Ian Cramer, the Plant-Based Cyclist, is nurturing healthy and plant-based lifestyles in Rochester.
INTERVIEW NO. 96

Ian Cramer, the Plant-Based Cyclist, is nurturing healthy and plant-based lifestyles in Rochester.

Kristen Seversky of Girl Develop It is supporting new ideas and putting her beacon out there.
INTERVIEW NO. 95

Kristen Seversky of Girl Develop It is supporting new ideas and putting her beacon out there.

Nicole Milano of CGI Communications is jazzed about living in a city where every niche has its place.
INTERVIEW NO. 94

Nicole Milano of CGI Communications is jazzed about living in a city where every niche has its place.

Erich Lehman of 1975 Gallery and WALL\THERAPY is changing the community and going deep.
INTERVIEW NO. 93

Erich Lehman of 1975 Gallery and WALL\THERAPY is changing the community and going deep.

Kit Kalfs & Nancy Tisch of Bet the Farm are tasting everything from Rochester to the Finger Lakes and beyond.
INTERVIEW NO. 92, FINGER LAKES SPOTLIGHT

Kit Kalfs & Nancy Tisch of Bet the Farm are tasting everything from Rochester to the Finger Lakes and beyond.

Michael Cmar embraces the variety (and cold) Rochester has to offer.
INTERVIEW NO. 91

Michael Cmar embraces the variety (and cold) Rochester has to offer.

How to Have the Most Rochester 4th of July
EVENTS, TO DO

How to Have the Most Rochester 4th of July

Paige Doerner of Lollypop Farm is all about sharing your city experiences with others.
INTERVIEW NO. 90

Paige Doerner of Lollypop Farm is all about sharing your city experiences with others.

Writer and film critic Adam Lubitow stays for the arts community and rich film history of Rochester.
INTERVIEW NO. 89

Writer and film critic Adam Lubitow stays for the arts community and rich film history of Rochester.

Artist Meghan Murphy finds the right mix of everything in Rochester.
INTERVIEW NO. 88, ARTISTS HEART ROC

Artist Meghan Murphy finds the right mix of everything in Rochester.

Anita O’Brien is focused on helping everyone have access to everything Rochester has to offer.
INTERVIEW NO. 87

Anita O’Brien is focused on helping everyone have access to everything Rochester has to offer.

Year Two
LOOKBACK

Year Two

Julianne Pangal is running her way through all the beautiful Rochester seasons.
INTERVIEW NO. 86

Julianne Pangal is running her way through all the beautiful Rochester seasons.

Photographer Jason Wilder candidly captures raw and real Rochester moments.
INTERVIEW NO.85

Photographer Jason Wilder candidly captures raw and real Rochester moments.

ROConnoisseur host and creator Casey Bowker is a fan of the ever-evolving food and drink scene.
INTERVIEW NO. 84

ROConnoisseur host and creator Casey Bowker is a fan of the ever-evolving food and drink scene.

Bookbinder and artist Rachael Gootnick loves reading and learning about other people’s stories.
INTERVIEW NO. 83, ARTISTS HEART ROC

Bookbinder and artist Rachael Gootnick loves reading and learning about other people’s stories.

Chris Fanning, Director of Communications for Writers & Books loves being an advocate for literature in the city.
INTERVIEW NO. 82

Chris Fanning, Director of Communications for Writers & Books loves being an advocate for literature in the city.

Recent college graduate Lauren Zazzara is proud to be back in the interconnectedness of Rochester.
INTERVIEW NO. 81, COLLEGE STUDENTS HEART ROC

Recent college graduate Lauren Zazzara is proud to be back in the interconnectedness of Rochester.

RIT Digital Games Coordinator Rob Mostyn is telling you to get out and find your people.
INTERVIEW NO. 80

RIT Digital Games Coordinator Rob Mostyn is telling you to get out and find your people.

Open Mic Rochester Editor-in-Chief Tianna Manon encourages us all to collaborate even more.
INTERVIEW NO. 79

Open Mic Rochester Editor-in-Chief Tianna Manon encourages us all to collaborate even more.

Joe Bean Coffee Roasters owner Kathy Turiano and head chef Christin Ortiz are all about collaboration and innovation while sticking to their roots.
INTERVIEW NO. 78

Joe Bean Coffee Roasters owner Kathy Turiano and head chef Christin Ortiz are all about collaboration and innovation while sticking to their roots.

Stand-up comic Madelein Smith is all about fostering the underground Rochester comedy scene.
INTERVIEW NO. 77

Stand-up comic Madelein Smith is all about fostering the underground Rochester comedy scene.

University of Rochester PhD student Dan Gorman teaches us about Rochester’s legacy of innovation.
INTERVIEW NO. 76, COLLEGE STUDENTS HEART ROC

University of Rochester PhD student Dan Gorman teaches us about Rochester’s legacy of innovation.

Local band Tart Vandelay make music for your soul in the perfect mix of Rochester.
INTERVIEW NO. 75

Local band Tart Vandelay make music for your soul in the perfect mix of Rochester.

Artist Shay Lawhorn is refreshed by the change of pace a gray day in Rochester brings.
INTERVIEW NO. 74, ARTISTS HEART ROC

Artist Shay Lawhorn is refreshed by the change of pace a gray day in Rochester brings.

George Eastman Museum Digital Manager Kate Meyers Emery believes Rochester has something for everyone.
INTERVIEW NO. 73

George Eastman Museum Digital Manager Kate Meyers Emery believes Rochester has something for everyone.

Carolyn Stiles of Rochester Beer Gals is passionate about both the opportunity and heritage of Rochester.
INTERVIEW NO. 72

Carolyn Stiles of Rochester Beer Gals is passionate about both the opportunity and heritage of Rochester.

Meet the January Residents at The Yards collaborative art space.
INTERVIEW NO. 71

Meet the January Residents at The Yards collaborative art space.

Writer and Little Theater Social Guru Scott Pukos wants you to consider Rochester’s whimsical side.
INTERVIEW NO. 70

Writer and Little Theater Social Guru Scott Pukos wants you to consider Rochester’s whimsical side.

Hooperella Gala K. Tubera is whirling her way through Rochester’s subcultures.
INTERVIEW NO. 69

Hooperella Gala K. Tubera is whirling her way through Rochester’s subcultures.

Rochester artist Megan Charland encourages you to use all the resources and just go for it.
INTERVIEW NO. 68, ARTISTS HEART ROC

Rochester artist Megan Charland encourages you to use all the resources and just go for it.

RIT Student Justin W. Flory challenges you to keep an open mind and try something new in Rochester.
INTERVIEW NO. 67, COLLEGE STUDENTS HEART ROC

RIT Student Justin W. Flory challenges you to keep an open mind and try something new in Rochester.

Your Favorite Places
PLACES TO GO

Your Favorite Places

Shelby Pryzbylek of Little Button Craft is all about going 100% Rochester.
INTERVIEW NO. 66

Shelby Pryzbylek of Little Button Craft is all about going 100% Rochester.

Sarah Murphy Abbamonte advocates for Rochester’s diverse culture and diverse heritage.
INTERVIEW NO. 65

Sarah Murphy Abbamonte advocates for Rochester’s diverse culture and diverse heritage.

2016 in Review
YEAR END REVIEW

2016 in Review

How to Survive Winter: Advice from True Rochestarians
EVENTS, TO DO

How to Survive Winter: Advice from True Rochestarians

Artist John “Magnus” Champlin floats through Rochester and leaves little surprises everywhere.
INTERVIEW NO. 64, ARTISTS HEART ROC

Artist John “Magnus” Champlin floats through Rochester and leaves little surprises everywhere.

Iron Smoke Whiskey Founder Tommy Brunett is excited about creating jobs in Rochester and (of course) making whiskey.
INTERVIEW NO. 63

Iron Smoke Whiskey Founder Tommy Brunett is excited about creating jobs in Rochester and (of course) making whiskey.

25 Ways to Give Back
COMMUNITY SERVICE

25 Ways to Give Back

Artists Rachel and Cordell Cordaro of Art House Press, are living their dream days and showcasing the artist talent of Rochester.
INTERVIEW NO. 62, ARTISTS HEART ROC

Artists Rachel and Cordell Cordaro of Art House Press, are living their dream days and showcasing the artist talent of Rochester.

Hiker and adventurer Tyler Socash encourages you to get outside and enjoy the beauty of the Rochester area.
INTERVIEW NO. 61

Hiker and adventurer Tyler Socash encourages you to get outside and enjoy the beauty of the Rochester area.

Journalist and college student Vanessa Cheeks is impressed by the city’s willingness to grow and change.
INTERVIEW NO. 60, COLLEGE STUDENTS HEART ROC

Journalist and college student Vanessa Cheeks is impressed by the city’s willingness to grow and change.

Musician Jon Lewis is inspired by the continual rebirth and flavor Rochester offers to all.
INTERVIEW NO. 59

Musician Jon Lewis is inspired by the continual rebirth and flavor Rochester offers to all.

Open Letter Books Founder Chad Post encourages you to see the true potential of Rochester.
INTERVIEW NO. 58

Open Letter Books Founder Chad Post encourages you to see the true potential of Rochester.

Artists Sigriet Ferrer and Matthew Leffler appreciate the opportunities and resources Rochester provides to artists.
INTERVIEW NO. 57, ARTISTS HEART ROC

Artists Sigriet Ferrer and Matthew Leffler appreciate the opportunities and resources Rochester provides to artists.

U of R student Jackie Capita is all about changing your perspective and embracing the diversity of Rochester.
INTERVIEW NO. 56

U of R student Jackie Capita is all about changing your perspective and embracing the diversity of Rochester.

Designer Shawn O’Hara is inspired by the beauty and optimism of the Rochester community.
INTERVIEW NO. 55

Designer Shawn O’Hara is inspired by the beauty and optimism of the Rochester community.

50 Things You Must Do in Rochester
TO DO IN ROC

50 Things You Must Do in Rochester

DJ Alykhan encourages you to be a part of Rochester’s engaging nightlife.
INTERVIEW NO. 54

DJ Alykhan encourages you to be a part of Rochester’s engaging nightlife.

The Upstate Social crew are connecting you to the Rochester community both online and offline.
INTERVIEW NO. 53

The Upstate Social crew are connecting you to the Rochester community both online and offline.

On For Friday founder Michael Agnello is all about the genuine experiences Rochester offers.
INTERVIEW NO. 52

On For Friday founder Michael Agnello is all about the genuine experiences Rochester offers.

Fashion blogger and college student Ruya Kirac is all about changing your perspective of where you are.
INTERVIEW NO. 51, COLLEGE STUDENTS HEART ROC

Fashion blogger and college student Ruya Kirac is all about changing your perspective of where you are.

Rochester Fringe Creative Director Matt DeTurck is an advocate for the amazing local art community.
INTERVIEW NO. 50

Rochester Fringe Creative Director Matt DeTurck is an advocate for the amazing local art community.

Terry Sinopoli appreciates the unique flavors of Rochester.
INTERVIEW NO. 49

Terry Sinopoli appreciates the unique flavors of Rochester.

Eboni Jones loves how Rochester can feed you spiritually, creatively, and literally.
INTERVIEW NO. 48

Eboni Jones loves how Rochester can feed you spiritually, creatively, and literally.

Maker and creativity supporter Dan Schneiderman is energized by the passion of Rochester.
INTERVIEW NO. 47

Maker and creativity supporter Dan Schneiderman is energized by the passion of Rochester.

Musician Greg Best is on board with Rochester’s untapped potential and renewed sense of passion.
INTERVIEW NO. 46

Musician Greg Best is on board with Rochester’s untapped potential and renewed sense of passion.

Rochester Brainery Co-Founder Danielle Raymo loves making local connections and Rochester in the fall.
INTERVIEW NO. 45

Rochester Brainery Co-Founder Danielle Raymo loves making local connections and Rochester in the fall.

Jewelry designer Nicole Antonini enjoys everything Rochester has to offer.
INTERVIEW NO. 44

Jewelry designer Nicole Antonini enjoys everything Rochester has to offer.

Yoga girl and adventurer Nicole Kazimer has the best memories during snowstorms.
INTERVIEW NO. 43

Yoga girl and adventurer Nicole Kazimer has the best memories during snowstorms.

Explorer and writer Chris Clemens experiences the undiscovered wonders of Rochester and beyond.
INTERVIEW NO. 42

Explorer and writer Chris Clemens experiences the undiscovered wonders of Rochester and beyond.

Corn Hill Arts Festival Chair Joanie Fraver revels in Rochester’s historical significance.
INTERVIEW NO. 41

Corn Hill Arts Festival Chair Joanie Fraver revels in Rochester’s historical significance.

Corn Hill
SHORT STORY BY EMMA DAITZ

Corn Hill

Music lover and producer Kelsey Delmotte shares her passion for the ROC music scene.
INTERVIEW NO. 40

Music lover and producer Kelsey Delmotte shares her passion for the ROC music scene.

Hannah Barry feels Rochester with all her heart, and always enjoys a good Zweigle.
INTERVIEW NO. 39

Hannah Barry feels Rochester with all her heart, and always enjoys a good Zweigle.

Rochester theatre advocate Jennifer Caton gives a look into a vibrant community.
INTERVIEW NO. 38

Rochester theatre advocate Jennifer Caton gives a look into a vibrant community.

Art lover Jessica Gasbarre shares her favorite places to see beautiful things in Rochester.
INTERVIEW NO. 37

Art lover Jessica Gasbarre shares her favorite places to see beautiful things in Rochester.

Our creator and editor, Maria Gorre, reminisces about Rochester summers and Wednesday nights on the porch.
INTERVIEW NO. 36

Our creator and editor, Maria Gorre, reminisces about Rochester summers and Wednesday nights on the porch.

Year One Reflections
SHORT STORY BY EMMA DAITZ

Year One Reflections

Meet the I Heart ROC team
TEAM INTRO BY MARIA GORRE

Meet the I Heart ROC team

Charles Moreland is all about slow mornings and making strong Rochester connections.
INTERVIEW NO. 35

Charles Moreland is all about slow mornings and making strong Rochester connections.

Restauranteurs Kelly & Aaron share their story of seized opportunities and Rochester love.
INTERVIEW NO. 34

Restauranteurs Kelly & Aaron share their story of seized opportunities and Rochester love.

Dave Meleca of Genesee Beard Co. loves fishin’ and supporting local ROC businesses.
INTERVIEW NO. 33

Dave Meleca of Genesee Beard Co. loves fishin’ and supporting local ROC businesses.

Photographer Jessica Waydelis finds adventure in the everyday.
INTERVIEW NO. 32

Photographer Jessica Waydelis finds adventure in the everyday.

Spencerport alum Katy LaJuett talks secret bars and the rise of the South Wedge.
INTERVIEW NO. 31, BY JULIE ADNER

Spencerport alum Katy LaJuett talks secret bars and the rise of the South Wedge.

BFFs Sam Dibona and Sarah Hudson talk garbage plates and “cultural Sundays.”
INTERVIEW NO. 30

BFFs Sam Dibona and Sarah Hudson talk garbage plates and “cultural Sundays.”

Oxford Street
SHORT STORY, MARIA GORRE

Oxford Street

Jason Barrett, Head Distiller and President of Black Button Distillery
INTERVIEW NO. 29

Jason Barrett, Head Distiller and President of Black Button Distillery

Taylor, our new contributor, embraces gray Rochester days and hangover bowls.
INTERVIEW NO. 28

Taylor, our new contributor, embraces gray Rochester days and hangover bowls.

Vegan baker Jenny Johnson loves mornings and long canal walks.
INTERVIEW NO. 27

Vegan baker Jenny Johnson loves mornings and long canal walks.

Emily Hessney Lynch welcomes spring and loves exploring all the ROC parks.
Interview No. 26

Emily Hessney Lynch welcomes spring and loves exploring all the ROC parks.

Stylist Amanda DeFisher talks lady business and shares her love for Tuesdays downtown.
Interview No. 25

Stylist Amanda DeFisher talks lady business and shares her love for Tuesdays downtown.

Nate Leisenring, Age 20
INTERVIEW, BY STEPHEN LUKE

Nate Leisenring, Age 20

Na’Tasha Jones, Age 23
CONTRIBUTOR INTERVIEW, BY STEPHEN LUKE

Na’Tasha Jones, Age 23

Denard Smith, Age 22
CONTRIBUTOR INTERVIEW, BY STEPHEN LUKE

Denard Smith, Age 22

Stephen Luke, our new contributor, finds solace in those cool Rochester nights.
INTERVIEW

Stephen Luke, our new contributor, finds solace in those cool Rochester nights.

Breanna Banford explores Rochester ‘hoods and is all about community love.
INTERVIEW

Breanna Banford explores Rochester ‘hoods and is all about community love.

Meet Emma, our new Social Media contributor and Bagel Land fan.
Contributor Introduction

Meet Emma, our new Social Media contributor and Bagel Land fan.

Calin Lawrence loves beer and is a master of her winter destiny.
Interview

Calin Lawrence loves beer and is a master of her winter destiny.

Tony Palermo can’t stay away from Rochester and all its complexity.
Interview

Tony Palermo can’t stay away from Rochester and all its complexity.

The Church
Short Story, Julie Adner

The Church

Jacalyn Meyvis likes sunsets on the lake and Sam Patch.
Interview

Jacalyn Meyvis likes sunsets on the lake and Sam Patch.

Matt Rogers likes Saturdays and exploring hidden gems.
Interview

Matt Rogers likes Saturdays and exploring hidden gems.

Same Girl, Different Place
Short Story

Same Girl, Different Place

Change is good.
Short Story

Change is good.

Madelyn & Jennifer, Little Button Craft & Press
Interview

Madelyn & Jennifer, Little Button Craft & Press

Anthony, Frankfort, IN
Out-of-Town Interview

Anthony, Frankfort, IN

Like Violence, Dogtown
Interview

Like Violence, Dogtown

Park Ave
Short Story

Park Ave

Danielle, Shema Sushi
Interview

Danielle, Shema Sushi

John, San Francisco, CA
Out-of-Town Interview

John, San Francisco, CA

The Corbins, Moonlight Creamery
Interview

The Corbins, Moonlight Creamery

Meg, Lux Lounge
Interview

Meg, Lux Lounge

Kim, San Diego, CA
Out-of-Town Interview

Kim, San Diego, CA

Steph, Nox Cocktail Lounge
Interview

Steph, Nox Cocktail Lounge

Frankie, Equal Grounds Coffee House
Interview

Frankie, Equal Grounds Coffee House

Michele, Cambridge Street
Interview

Michele, Cambridge Street

AJ, The Old Toad
Interview

AJ, The Old Toad

Juliana, Skylark Lounge
Interview

Juliana, Skylark Lounge

Julie, Genesee Brew House
Interview

Julie, Genesee Brew House