Terry Sinopoli
Arlene's Costumes
Interview No. 49
Rochester is truly a melting pot. It is a mix of old and new, races, creeds, and nationalities. It is midwestern charm with northeastern speed and efficiency.
Interview by Taylor Wroblewski.
Published September 7, 2016.
What part of Rochester are you from?
I grew up between the Northeast side of the city and Henrietta.
Why did you stay in Rochester?
I was born and raised here, but lived in Albany and D.C. for a few years my 20s when I worked in politics. I came home because my family is here and I definitely love this town.
What is your favorite part of living in Rochester?
I love the people and all of the activity. There is always something going on here. From live music to craft cocktails and beers to outdoor movies and activities for the kids, there is something incredible about this city.
Do you have any favorite/secret Rochester spots?
My favorite quiet ROC spot is the “White Lady Castle” in Durand Eastman Park. It has a perfect view and is great for taking pics, too. I could sit up there all day. My children love running up and down the steps.
I have another favorite spot, but that’s kind of obvious. Our costume shop [Arlene’s Costumes] are amazing and fun and have become part of many families’ Halloween traditions.
What is your favorite time of day to hang out in the city?
Evenings.
What's your favorite day of the week?
Saturday - I get to relax and spend more time with my family.
Describe your dream Rochester day.
A perfect fall day with the air crisp, but calm. The leaves are falling and crunching beneath my feet. Maybe it’s because my birthday is in early October or because I was born into loving Halloween, but that would just be the perfect day!
Like a fine wine, Rochester improves with age. Its flavors reveal themselves, layer by layer, the more you get to know it.
Do you have a favorite neighborhood?
I live in Charlotte. It has everything! It’s perfect on a summer night for Abbott’s and a walk on the pier but it’s also great for a cold winter night by the fire. Fall days are fun. My kids and I rake leaves from our giant maple tree and jump in. In the summer though, everyone comes to Charlotte! The live music on the shore and all the nightlife is so perfect.
Favorite bar?
I love Tap & Mallet. I’ve been going there since the day it opened and I just love the atmosphere, food and, of course, the beer menu.
Favorite hungover eating spot?
Don’s Original or Bill Gray’s.
What's your personal coping method for cold/gray weather?
I like to sit in front of my fireplace and read or color. I also spend time watching TV, reading or playing games with my kids.
What is your favorite Rochester memory?
I remember the ice storm of 1991. I spent the whole week with my Aunt Arlene and my grandmother. We spent one night in a hotel downtown and the rest of the week at my aunt’s house. We played cards and made lots of food.
What makes Rochester unique?
Rochester is truly a melting pot. It is a mix of old and new, races, creeds, and nationalities. It is midwestern charm with northeastern speed and efficiency.
Business in Rochester is also unique. It takes a lot to make it here. Celebrating 60 years with my family’s business, Arlene’s Costumes, is a huge milestone -- one that not many companies can accomplish in this city!
What do you think could be improved?
Like many other cities its size, Rochester needs a referendum on crime. It also needs to celebrate and invite its young people to stay, settle, and love this city, just as I did. We have far too many college graduates and young adults looking elsewhere for careers.
If Rochester were a drink, what would it be?
Like a fine wine, Rochester improves with age. Its flavors reveal themselves, layer by layer, the more you get to know it.
Terry is the Marketing Manager at Arlene’s Costumes, a Rochester institution that is now celebrating it’s 60th anniversary. Her passion for Rochester, and for her family’s business, will sincerely help Arlene’s skyrocket into the next 60 years.
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