Visitors are welcome to celebrate the season at the George Eastman Museum as its beloved annual holiday displays continue through Sunday, January 4, 2026, marking its 30th year. The merry showcase features over 50 cleverly designed and beautifully decorated gingerbread creations, along with dozens of handcrafted wreaths, festive tabletop trees, and diverse mantel displays.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF GEORGE EASTMAN MUSEUM/ELIZABETH CHIANG
All gingerbread creations, wreaths, and tabletop trees are available through an online auction. Guests can view the displays in person or virtually, and place bids from any mobile device or computer at eastman.org/holidays. Proceeds benefit the George Eastman Museum.
2025 Sweet Creations Events
Sweet Creations Gingerbreads and Auction: Over 50 cleverly decorated gingerbread creations fill the mansion.
Wreaths and Auction: Wreaths by local florists and garden clubs adorn the walls.
Tabletop Trees and Auction: Festive tabletop trees, decorated by local groups and businesses, are on display throughout the historic mansion.
Mantel Displays: Returning for a third year, the mansion’s fireplace mantels are decorated by local organizations to echo the celebrations of our diverse community.
Scavenger Hunt: Visitors of all ages can test their skills through a scavenger hunt.
Holiday Films at the Dryden Theatre
The Dryden Theatre kicks off its annual holiday film series Thanksgiving weekend with A Christmas Story (1983) on Friday, November 28 at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, November 29 at 2 p.m.; and National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989) on Saturday, November 30 at 7:30 p.m. Other highlights include It’s a Wonderful Life (1946) on December 5 at 7:30 p.m., December 10 at 7:30 p.m., and December 13 at 2 p.m.; A Christmas Carol (1938) on December 18 at 7:30 p.m. and December 20 at 2 p.m.; and The Apartment (1960) on New Year’s Eve at 7:30 p.m. Visit eastman.org/dryden for full film listings.
Hours and Admission
Museum hours during Holidays at the George Eastman Museum are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays. The museum is closed on Mondays. The museum will be closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
For ticket information, visit eastman.org
- on the cover -
the season of thanks
CELEBRATING GRATITUDE, COMMUNITY & THE SMALL THINGS THAT MATTER MOST
As the air turns crisp and the final leaves fall, there’s something special about this time of year that slows us down, even if just for a moment. Between the bustle of shopping, the warmth of family gatherings, and the glow of candles at the table, the end of November reminds us to pause, reflect, and give thanks.
It’s not just about the feast (though the turkey and pies are worth celebrating). It’s about gratitude for the people around our table, the small shops that brighten our streets, and the traditions that make our communities feel like home.
GIVING THANKS AND GIVING BACK
The holidays invite us to look beyond our own homes, to pause, reflect, and find small ways to make someone else’s season a little brighter. That might mean donating to a local organization, buying gifts that support a cause, or giving in someone’s honor.
A donation made in a loved one’s name is a thoughtful way to celebrate their spirit, whether it’s to an animal rescue, a neighborhood charity, or a group doing work they would admire. We can also choose gifts that give back, like handcrafted candles from our local makers or fair-trade ornaments that support artisans around the world.
Even the smallest gestures count. Picking up coffee for a busy teacher, dropping off baked goods to a neighbor, or leaving a little extra tip at a favorite café can brighten someone’s day. Gratitude has a way of multiplying when it is shared.
THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY
When we think about thankfulness, it’s easy to focus on family and friends, but we cannot forget the people who make our town so special: the local business owners who greet us by name, the baristas and bakers who help make our mornings a little better (especially on Mondays), and the florists and artisans who pour care and creativity into their work, filling our spaces with beauty.
Shopping local is more than a transaction; it is a gesture of appreciation. Every visit to a neighborhood store supports a dream, a family, and the heartbeat of our community. These businesses give back in countless ways, sponsoring youth teams, employing neighbors, and keeping our streets vibrant and full of life. Beyond the purchases, a kind word or small note of thanks strengthens the ties that make our town feel like home.
This season, before clicking "add to cart," wander through our villages or stop by a nearby boutique. You may leave with more than a gift, a warm conversation, a small story, and the reminder that our community grows one thoughtful choice at a time.
MEANINGFUL MOMENTS
Traditions are what make this season feel like home, from the familiar smells to the laughter and the recipes passed down through generations. But some of the most meaningful rituals are the ones we create ourselves.
Maybe it is baking cookies for an elderly neighbor, hosting a "friendsgiving" for those far from family, or spending an afternoon volunteering together. These small acts turn ordinary days into moments of connection and kindness. Even simple gestures like a handwritten note, a warm meal, or time spent together can leave an impact that lasts well beyond the holidays.
While Thanksgiving may come and go in a single day, gratitude does not have to. We can carry it forward through kind words, thoughtful actions, and support for the people and places that make our community shine.
A SEASON FOR REFLECTION
The time between Thanksgiving and the holidays is not about rushing into what is next. It is about slowing down to notice what is good, the laughter, the full hearts, and the simple blessings surrounding us.
So this year, let us give thanks, shop small, lend a hand, keep the traditions that fill our hearts, and start new ones that lift others.
Because gratitude is not just something we feel, it is something we share.
Simple Ways to Give Thanks in Your Community
Shop Local First. Visit a neighborhood store or market before heading online. A little extra business means the world to local owners.
Adopt a Family or Pet. Local shelters and charities often share wish lists during the holidays. Even small donations make a difference.
Write a Note of Thanks. Drop off a handwritten card to a teacher, coach, or healthcare worker who makes a difference every day.
Host a Gratitude Night. Gather friends for dinner or dessert and have everyone share one thing they’re thankful for this year.
Support Local Causes. Many community organizations rely on volunteers this time of year. Whether it’s wrapping gifts for a fundraiser or helping at a food drive, every hand helps.
PHOTO BY WILLIAM SAUERS
REBUILDING History
GREECE HISTORICAL SOCIETY HOSTING PROGRAM ON THE REBUILDING OF HISTORIC BROCKPORT MUSEUM
The Greece Historical Society, in partnership with the Greece Public Library, is hosting a presentation by Paul Kimball titled “The Morgan-Manning House Museum: The Anatomy of a Fire and the Process of Rebuilding.” The event will take place on Tuesday, November 18, at 7 p.m. at the Greece Public Library, 2 Vince Tofany Boulevard, Rochester.
On January 14, 2025, a devastating fire destroyed a large portion of the Morgan-Maning House Museum in Brockport. Kimball will discuss the fire and the progress made to date to save this historic building and eventually reopen it to the public.
Paul Kimball was the Clarkson Town Supervisor from 1984 to 2017 and championed numerous town historical projects. Now he is heading the rebuilding effort to restore the Morgan-Manning House to its
former grandeur. He also currently serves as a member of the Clarkson Historical Committee, which oversees the historic 1854 Clarkson Academy Schoolhouse on Ridge Road.
It took several hours for firefighters to get the blaze under control.
Paul Kimball
HOMETOWN Scholars
Students from this area are among those who have earned scholarships at Baldwin Wallace University in Cleveland, Ohio, this fall. The following local students earned scholarships:
Nicole Bracci-Leiter of Rochester (14606), a graduate of Gates-Chili Sr. High School, majoring in political science, earned the Frances & William Summers, Sr. Scholarship.
Martina De Luccio of Rochester (14612), a graduate of Greece Athena High School, majoring in voice performance, earned the E.S. & M.R. Griffiths Scholarship.
Ian Royse of Rochester (14612), a graduate of Greece Arcadia High School majoring in music theatre, earned a $21,000 President's Scholarship and the E.S. & M.R. Griffiths Scholarship.
Ash Fowler of Rochester (14626), a graduate of Our Lady of Mercy High Schxool, majoring in arts management and entrepreneurship and theatre acting and directing, earned a $21,000 President's Scholarship.
Roof Leaks?
Holiday Open House
Blending History & Humor
The Gates Historical Society’s monthly program will be held on Monday, November 17, at 7 p.m. in the Gates Town Hall Annex, 1605 Buffalo Road, Rochester. Authors Tim and Deb Smith will discuss their recent book, Royally Regaling Greater Rochester – Taking Stock of the ROC. Their presentation offers a fascinating blend of local history and humor. This program is free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be served. The facility is handicapped accessible.
A Holiday Classic Comes to Life
OFC Creations presents the regional premiere and pilot production of Jim Henson’s Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas, November 26 through December 7, 2025, as part of the “Broadway in Brighton” series. OFC is the only theatre workshopping the pilot production of this show with iTheatrics and the Jim Henson Company. Starring Vivan Bayubay McLaughlin, best known from Disney’s Out of the Box and Sesame English, this production features Jim Henson’s official puppets.
Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas brings the beloved Jim Henson television special to life, live on stage. Hailed by The New York Times for its “superb score” by Academy Award–winning songwriter Paul Williams, this nostalgic tale takes us to Frogtown Hollow, where Ma and Emmet Otter risk what little they have to make each other’s holiday dreams come true. This very merry musical is a heartwarming celebration perfect for the entire family.
It’s three days before Christmas, and Mayor Fox has just announced a Christmas talent contest with a grand prize of fifty dollars. Meanwhile, times are tough for Ma and Emmet Otter since Pa passed away, and winning that prize money would allow them to secretly buy each other a Christmas gift. Emmet considers forming a jug-band with his
friends, but to do that, he’ll have to put a hole in Ma’s washtub. The problem is, Ma earns money by doing other folks’ laundry in the washtub. Ma thinks about hocking Pa’s old toolbox so she can make a costume for the contest, but Emmet uses those tools to do odd jobs. As Christmas Eve and the talent contest quickly approach, will Ma and Emmet sacrifice what little they have, or will their Christmas wishes come true?
“I am thrilled to be making my debut at OFC in the role of Ma Otter with this incredible cast and crew and to be back once again in the world of Jim Henson,” exclaims Vivian Bayubay McLaughlin. “Being able to bring my favorite childhood Christmas movie to life is a true privilege.”
“There is so much nostalgia for audiences who have already fallen in love with this story from the 1977 film,” shares Eric Vaughn Johnson, director of the show. “It is an incredible honor to be entrusted by iTheatrics and the Jim Henson Company to continue workshopping this stage show and reach new audiences, spreading the pure joy of Emmet Otter’s story.”
The music and lyrics for Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas are written by the legendary Paul Williams (known for “Rainbow Connection” and “Evergreen”),
the recipient of an Academy Award, two Golden Globe Awards, and three Grammy Awards. The New York Times called Williams’s score “as playful as it is heartwhole beautiful,” which includes now classic tunes "When the River Meets the Sea" and "Our World" as well as tons of new songs for the stage adaptation.
Emmet Otter continues OFC’s 2025-2026 Broadway In Brighton Series with a focus on the importance of family–the family you are born into and your chosen family found along life’s journey. Families come in all shapes and sizes, and we strive to reflect this beauty on our stage.
STARRING
Vivian Bayubay McLaughlin
Producer/Director
Eric Vaughn Johnson
Greece PD featured at IACP Conference
The Greece Police Department was recently featured in a video at the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) Conference in Denver, Colorado. The video highlights the department’s officers, values, initiatives, and the community they serve. It reflects what makes Greece unique, as a full-service police department rooted in professionalism, partnership, and pride in service.
Watch the video at
Jerard johnson Director of Patient Support Services and Community Relations & Associate Coordinator of Racial Justice at UR Pediatric Behavioral Health and Wellness
Starbridge Celebrates 10 YEARS of Community Impact
Starbridge recently celebrated 10 years of impact by recognizing local individuals and organizations who have made lasting contributions toward inclusion and opportunity for people with disabilities across New York State.
Susan Goff Special Educator at Wayne Central School District, leading Project S.H.O.W. (Students Hands on the World)
The Community Champion Awards celebrate individuals and organizations that lead with purpose, compassion, and integrity, shaping communities where everyone belongs. The 2025 award recipients were recognized at Starbridge’s 10th Annual Cause for Celebration held on October 22 at Comedy @ the Carlson.
Each honoree reflects Starbridge’s core values of Collaboration, Inclusion, Integrity, and Trust, and demonstrates extraordinary leadership in advancing equity and opportunity for people with disabilities across the Finger Lakes region.
Over the past decade, Starbridge has grown into a leading organization that supports inclusion and opportunities for people with disabilities across New York State. Through partnerships with individuals, families, schools, and employers, Starbridge has helped more than 16,000 people each year achieve success in education, employment, and healthy living.
“Our 10-year anniversary is not just about looking back,” said Nikisha Ridgeway, President & CEO. “It’s about recognizing the people and partnerships that continue to drive our mission forward, the champions who make opportunities possible in every corner of our community.”
Visit www.starbridgeinc.org for more information.
“It is both humbling and an honor to be recognized. Having the opportunity to work with incredible students and see them meet - Kevin Guy
The Gates Chili Hall of Fame is designed to honor graduates of Gates Chili High School who have achieved distinction, outstanding accomplishment, or significant contribution within their schools, families, careers, communities, or personal lives. In addition to honoring selected graduates, a major goal of the Hall of Fame is to provide role models and incentives for current and future students.
Hall of Fame Class of 2025 inductees exemplify the Spartan Way — respect, responsibility, compassion, and hard work — through their careers, service, and contributions to their communities. These distinguished alumni were honored during Homecoming Week, from October 14 to 17.
Mark Parina (Class of 2009)
Vice President of Mark’s Pizzeria, franchise owner, and community champion recognized for his business leadership and commitment to giving back through Junior Achievement and local sponsorships.
Neil Campbell (Class of 2004)
Principal Attorney with the Mental Hygiene Legal Service, volunteer, youth coach, and community leader dedicated to supporting families and advocating for kindness.
Robert Long (Class of 1998)
Chief of the Gates Police Department, Gates Chili School Board member, and leader across Monroe County law enforcement and community organizations.
Toni Dolce (Class of 1997)
Emmy Award-winning producer, internationally acclaimed vocalist, and entrepreneur with a career in media, music, and live performance, as well as mentoring and advocacy for small business owners and creatives.
Elvis Reyes (Class of 1986, honored posthumously) Rochester City Firefighter, athlete, and volunteer remembered for his service, generosity, and dedication to helping others both locally and abroad.
Jeff Fisher (Class of 1984)
Community volunteer, record-holding Gates Chili athlete, and longtime Little League board member and coach, as well as a volunteer firefighter and Assistant Chief.
For more information on the Gates Chili Hall of Fame, visit:
Hall of Fame inductees (l-r) Elvis Reyes (cardboard cutout), Mark Parina, Jeff Fisher, Toni Dolce, Robert Long, and Neil Campbell. Photo from Gates Chili Central School District on Facebook.
TIDINGS AND JOY of comfort
Gathering at home during the holidays is about more than food and family—it’s about creating a space that feels warm, inviting, and memorable. A few thoughtful touches can transform your home into a festive haven, whether you’re hosting a full dinner or simply enjoying quiet moments with loved ones.
START WITH MEANINGFUL PIECES. Choose décor that has personal significance, whether it’s a family heirloom, a favorite ornament, or a thrifted find. We all have items tied to special occasions—the crystal we toast with or the rocking chair from our greatgrandparents where we read holiday stories. Incorporating these pieces adds depth, warmth, and a personal story to your holiday décor.
KEEP A SIMPLE COLOR PALETTE.
Stick to two or three colors for decorations to create a cohesive look without feeling cluttered. Neutral bases with one or two accent colors can make your décor feel elegant and intentional.
MIX TEXTURES AND MATERIALS.
Combine metals, woods, glass, and fabrics to give your décor dimension and interest. A variety of textures keeps arrangements from looking flat or predictable.
ADD HEIGHT AND LAYERS.
Use platforms, candles, or tall flowers to create focal points and visual depth. Varying heights in centerpieces or displays keeps the eye moving and makes your arrangements feel dynamic.
DON’T FORGET SMALL SPACES.
Entryways, side tables, and consoles are perfect spots for small holiday touches. Even a simple vase of seasonal greenery or a festive candle can carry the holiday spirit throughout your home.
LOCAL AUTHOR
From Five Words to Twenty-One Stories: THE MAKING OF "IF NOT FOR MARILYN"
BY JOANNE MICHIELSEN
Greece resident Diane Rivoli has enjoyed writing since she was a child, crafting short stories in her attic bedroom. Most of her writing is inspired by real people and events with names and details changed to protect the innocent or unsuspecting, thereby changing fact to fiction. Diane is passionate about her writing. She loves painting a picture with words that draw her readers in and stir their emotions.
Diane’s stories and poems have appeared in several area publications over the years. Her letter, “To the Future,” was even selected to be enclosed in the City of Rochester Time Capsule in 2000, to be opened by Rochester’s future inhabitants in 2134.
In September of this year, she self-published her fourth book, If Not for Marilyn. This collection of 21 short stories (some whimsical, some profound) was born during the COVID-19 pandemic, and Diane says it is a testament to the quiet strength and resilience of the human spirit.
During COVID, Diane’s friend, Marilyn, started a writers’ group on Facebook. Each week, members were given a set of five words and had to write a story inspired by those words. The majority of the stories included in this collection are ones Diane wrote as part of that five-word challenge, hence the book’s title. As dark as that time was, if there hadn’t been a pandemic and Marilyn hadn’t started the writers’ group, this book would not exist.
Readers will travel through the pages with a rich cast of characters—sometimes fragile, sometimes strong, always unforgettable—as they experience the weight of memory and the whisper of things to come, love and loss, and moments both deeply personal and universally true. One story is about a teenager planning his escape from the lonely, futuristic world in which he lives, where ‘Alone Together’ is its motto and isolation is the law of the land. Another features a centenarian who must answer a seemingly simple question—what does she want for her 100th birthday? —as her past and present collide in a bittersweet reverie. Then there is the young woman with car trouble who is seemingly transported into a steamy Victorian-age romance novel when a handsome stranger stops to offer his help. With each story, readers will be reminded that life is a delicate balance of joy and sorrow, and that even in our darkest moments, there is always a flicker of light.
When Diane’s repeated efforts to secure a literary agent didn’t pan out, she self-published her first novel, License, in 2015. Inspired by the letters she saw on license plates that popped into words in her head during a long, snowy drive, it is a work of character-driven literary fiction. Each of the book’s 60 short chapters includes the word “License” in the title. The novel also features 21 poems interspersed throughout.
Poetry is one of Diane’s favorite forms of writing. She says, “I take pleasure in wrapping words around a thought or an emotion. I get lost in the cadence and the rhyme.”
Diane Rivoli
She published a poetry collection, Every Moment is a Poem, Every Poem a Song, in 2016, and her second novel, Push and Pull, loosely based on the challenges faced by a gay couple she holds dear to her heart, in 2018. Diane’s son has illustrated the covers of all her books, making it a family affair.
Diane says self-publishing can be a difficult process. The service she used to publish her first two books took over the responsibility for font selection and page layout, which was convenient, but there was a cost associated with it. That company has since been acquired by another, which is cost-free to use; however, the author must do all the layout and setup work themselves. “It can be difficult,” says Diane, “But once you get the hang of it, it’s not too bad.”
Her advice to aspiring writers is to start by seeking out an agent to represent them in their search for a publisher. However, she cautions that there are pros and cons associated with both going through an agent and with selfpublishing. In the end, most writers write because they love it, and whichever way they can get their work out into the world is worth it, especially if the project is something they truly believe in.
When she isn’t writing, Diane enjoys puttering in the garden, cooking gourmet meals, singing karaoke, and walking nature trails or suburban sidewalks hand-in-hand with her husband, Joseph.
If Not for Marilyn, and all of Diane’s other books, are available through Amazon in both paperback and Kindle e-book format. They can also be ordered through local bookstores.
Diane wrote the following poem as part of the writers’ group, and it is included as part of one of the stories in If Not for Marilyn. The five words were: Celebrity, Edgy, Hallowed, Importance, and Mask.
MASK OR MUSK
By Diane Rivoli
Words are hallowed tools
We combine in different ways
To prove a point
Make a statement
Say what we want to say
We strive for the unique
In prose or poetry
Hoping for a bit of recognition
Or perhaps a touch of celebrity
The importance of each letter strikes me now As I look at the list of words I copied onto paper with a pen
Is that an ‘A’ or a ‘U’?
There is no excuse for my sloppy hand
If ‘A’, then Mask – Something that covers your face If ‘U’, then Musk – A secretion with an edgy odor from a muskrat’s private place
Suddenly I chuckle
The two words are not so different after all If musk is in the air, a mask might be in order To cover our nose from the unpleasant smell
A Day to Honor America's Veterans, Past & Present
BY ERIKA ZOBEL, 1ST VP, AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY, GREECE POST 468
Veteran’s Day? What exactly is that day? I searched online, and it sounded like an ad campaign for a store opening –“Complimentary discounts,” “Free coffee,” “Grab a to-go sandwich on the house.” Our Veterans are deserving of these tributes and so much more. Many people confuse Memorial Day and Veterans Day. I must admit, at one point, I did too.
What is the history behind Veterans Day?
Originally known as Armistice Day, November 11 marks the date that World War I ended in 1918. The significance lies in the fact that it became effective at the 11th hour of the 11th day, on the 11th month. One year later, President Woodrow Wilson officially announced the first Armistice Day in the United States to honor WWI Veterans. In 1938, it was designated as a federal holiday. After WWII and the Korean War, there was a big push in 1954 to encompass all Veterans, changing the name from Armistice Day to Veterans Day. This date wasn’t always fixed for November 11. In 1968, the Uniform Holiday Act was enacted, which moved all federal holidays to Mondays, allowing federal employees to enjoy longer weekends. Following considerable outcry, in 1975, President Gerald Ford signed a new law moving this holiday back to its original date, November 11, thus restoring its historical significance.
Who are our Veterans?
We often think of those who are older and wear baseball caps that indicate their branch of service. I must admit, my dad was one of those Veterans. Veterans are individuals who have served in the armed forces of a country and were honorably discharged. They can be as young as 18 years old up to and past 100 years old.
What can you do to celebrate Veterans on Veterans Day and beyond?
Give thanks to those who have bravely served our country and given us the freedoms that we enjoy so freely. Yes, consider buying them a cup of coffee, offering them a free meal, inviting them to a celebratory gathering, volunteering (which is much needed at Greece Post 468), or donating to a Veterans organization. Share with your children the significance that Veterans have made in all our lives. Remember to support Veteran-run businesses and consider hiring Veterans. Take a moment to put together a care package and drop it off at a local Veterans' shelter, or consider visiting a shelter and offering some of your time and services. Send a care package to our troops or just send them a thank-you card.
George Dadson Jr.
Ira Johnson
Chris Johnson
Looking for a local group that helps Veterans? You can join The American Legion Greece Post 468 and volunteer your time to help those who helped us. Upcoming public events help raise money for our local community and veterans. Join us for:
Turkey Raffle
Friday, November 21 • 6 to 9pm Craft Show Saturday, December 6 • 10am to 3pm
The American Legion Greece Post is accepting new members year-round (membership based on meeting requirements) and is located at 344 Dorsey Road, Rochester, NY 14616.
For more information, visit: greeceny468legionpost.com or the Facebook pages for: The American Legion Auxiliary – Greece Post 468 American Legion Riders – Greece, NY Post 468
Mike Zobel, Sr. (the writer’s father)
Kevin Woodbury
CHEERLEADING
The Greece Arcadia Titans and Gates Chili Spartans shared the Division III title at the Monroe County Cheerleading Championships held on October 22 in Hilton.
Stacey Pike coaches Arcadia, and Brittany Miller coaches Gates Chili.
STATE SENATOR
Pam Helming
RECEIVES THE LORETTA SIMMONS WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP AWARD
The Gates Chili Chamber of Commerce recognized state Senator Pam Helming with the 2025 Loretta Simmons Women’s Leadership Award during the organization’s annual Community Awards Banquet in Chili. The event brought together local leaders, business owners, and community members to celebrate individuals and organizations making a difference in the Gates and Chili area.
The award honors a woman or women-led business that has made a lasting contribution to the community through leadership, service, and commitment to others.
“I am deeply humbled and very grateful for this recognition,” said Senator Helming. "As the first woman to represent the 54th State Senate District, I understand I am standing on the shoulders of trailblazers like Loretta Simmons. Loretta led with vision, kindness, and determination. Continuing her legacy of inspiring and encouraging the next generation of leaders is something I strive to do every day. Leadership is about service. It's about being accessible to the people I represent, as well as supporting our local businesses and job creators, standing up for working families and our seniors, and fighting for the essential community programs and services that keep our neighborhoods safe and vibrant."
Helming’s remarks echoed the event’s broader focus on community leadership and collaboration. The Gates Chili Chamber of Commerce Community Awards highlight outstanding residents, businesses, and organizations making a positive difference in the community. Other award recipients were recognized for their volunteerism, civic engagement, and contributions to local projects that improve the quality of life.
“It’s a wonderful honor for us at the Chamber to recognize Senator Pam Helming for her contributions here in the local community,” said Zachary Utech, President of the Gates Chili Chamber of Commerce. “The Loretta Simmons Women’s Leadership Award is named after the Chamber’s first President and honors women in leadership roles who are contributing to the betterment of the community. Senator Helming has been at the forefront of employer-first action and an active public servant. For some, public office is simply a title — not for Pam. Whether through her work in the community or her involvement with the many nonprofit organizations she supports, we could not have chosen a better recipient of the 40th Loretta Simmons Leadership Award. Thank you for your work in supporting small businesses here in the Gates and Chili community!”
Representing Livingston, Ontario, and Wayne Counties, as well as the Monroe County communities of Chili, Churchville, Mendon, Riga, Rush, Scottsville, and Wheatland, Senator Helming has championed policies that strengthen local economies. She has helped secure funding for infrastructure and revitalization projects, supported workforce training programs that connect residents with jobs, and worked with chambers of commerce and local leaders to promote business growth across the Finger Lakes and Upstate New York.
2025 Award Winners
Award:
Chili Beautification Award: Veterans Memorial at the Chili Community Center
Gates Beautification Award: Quicklee’s
Joseph Entress Memorial Economic Development Award: Mark Teng (Asia Nation, Footloose Spa, and JBC Rice & Noodles)
Innovative Business Award: Signature Salon Suites
Culture and Arts Award: Gates Chili Performing Arts Center
Elisa Martin Outstanding Citizen Award: Jeff Baker, Chili Public Library Director (Retired)
Youth Leadership Award: Benjamin Heizmann, Churchville-Chili High School
Dream Big Award: VICs (Village Ice Cream, North Chili)
Young Professional Award: Jacob Hale, Tompkins Community Bank
Special Recognition Award: Gates Public Library (65th Anniversary)
Chamber Nominations Chair Mary Sperr presents the Loretta Simmons Women’s Leadership Award to Senator Pam Helming
Loretta Simmons Women’s Leadership
Senator Pamela Helming
NEW SUSPENSE THRILLER from Greece Resident
A mother, her teenage daughter, and her seven-yearold autistic son face a perilous journey across the United States to reunite with their father after a radiation-filled rain affects and destroys most life worldwide.
Based on actual secret nuclear tests in 1962, the story is a “what if” suspense thriller with unexpected twists and turns throughout. Written by Greece author Joe Janowicz, THE SILENT RAIN will be available on Amazon first and then in bookstores later this year.
Janowicz is a lifelong resident of Greece. After a successful career writing, producing, and directing Kodak TV commercials, documentaries, movies, and programs for television and sale, he embarked on a second chapter in his life, writing comic books, novels, and screenplays. His award-winning comic series, DREAMER, is about a young boy in a coma who travels into the dreams of children with disabilities and helps them find the true heroes in themselves to overcome their adversities. He has also written several other novels, including the supernatural thriller GHOSTS, You’ll Believe. He is currently working with artists from Marvel and DC on a new comic series.
Janowicz enjoys spending time with his family and grandchildren when not creating new stories.
To learn more about the author and his works, visit www.joejanowiczauthor.com
PHOTO BY KAREN FIEN
Winter is almost upon us! I would like to remind residents of our Winter Parking Ordinance, which is enforced from November 1 to April 15 from midnight to 8 a.m. This allows for safer and more effective plowing and salting of dedicated town streets and helps keep the cost of snow removal down, saving tax dollars for our residents.
I’ve been enjoying visiting The Center for their senior parties. Last month, I had the pleasure of joining our cherished seniors for the annual Senior Halloween Party at The Center. The costumes were so creative! Everything from pirates to ghosts to cowboys! We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended and to the incredible staff and volunteers who worked tirelessly to create this event and the others throughout the year.
During last month’s meeting of the Greece Town Board, we had the pleasure of recognizing longtime Greece resident and community leader, Al Meilutis. Al has called the Town of Greece home since 1954. A graduate of Greece Arcadia High School and Monroe Community College, he built a successful career with McCurdy & Co. and later Metro Mattress, helping the company expand across Upstate New York before retiring in 2023. Al’s dedication to public service in the Town of Greece spans more than four decades. He began serving on the Planning Board in the early 1980s, later joined the Town’s Economic Council, and went on to represent his neighbors as Town Councilman for the 4th Ward. Since the late 1990s, Al has served on the Board of Zoning Appeals, where he has been Chairman since 2009. His leadership and institutional knowledge have been invaluable to the Town and its residents.
As always, I enjoy hearing feedback from residents about programming and other Town-related matters. If you have any concerns, please call the town or visit our website at www.greeceny.gov. I hope everyone has a Thanksgiving filled with love, gratitude, and cherished moments with family and friends.
The Greece Town Board recognized longtime community leader Al Meilutis (second from left).
