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Live Life Well JA N UA RY 2 02 6

PERFECTLY SUITED FOR YOUR WEDDING DAY 5 8 5 - 8 0 2 - 0 8 9 1 | W W W. O N EC U S TO M C LOT H I E R . C O M 2 4 2 3 M O N R O E AV E N U E R O C H E S T E R N Y 1 4 6 1 8

Lilac Grove is a new, moderately priced rental community for adults ages 62 and older. Designed with comfort, convenience and community in mind, this 90-unit apartment complex opens in May 2026.

Welcome toL i lac Grove

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Call (585) 341-2306 or visit JewishHomeRoc.org/LilacGrove JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / R O C N Y

LIFESTYLE LETTER

Happy New Year ROC City! After a holiday season that was, as my daughter would say, “vibes only,” I’m heading into the new year actively seeking joy wherever it decides to hide. During a recent conversation with my teenager, I was informed—quite sincerely—that something I needed to “work on” in 2026 was learning slang. Apparently, this will streamline our communication and reduce the amount of explaining required on her end. [Insert O RLY? meme face here] Her comment made me laugh, but it also got me thinking: How do I want to grow this year? January is famously about resolutions—getting fit, eating better, and generally tidying up our lives. You’ll find wonderful resources on those themes in this issue. But for me, 2026 is about being deliberately curious. A student again—but of people. My siblings embraced new forms of learning in retirement. My sister picked up the violin. My brother, the piano. Ambitious? Maybe. Inspiring? Absolutely. As the kids say, “Do it for the plot” (translation: do what makes your life richer, fuller, and uniquely yours). I admire that spirit—doing things because they bring joy, not because they’re practical or expected. For me, the learning I want most in 2026 is about understanding people more deeply. One of my favorite people in the world once said, “Everyone is worth knowing.” I think about that often when I find myself relying on the usual conversational autopilot: “How are you?” “All good?” It’s polite, but it doesn’t always connect us. This year, I want to replace some of those routine questions with real curiosity. What if we asked questions that make people pause, just for a moment, before they answer? What if we gently invited a deeper conversation, even for 30 seconds? How might our relationships shift—with neighbors, co-workers, friends, or even strangers in line at Wegmans? I’m not suggesting we turn every casual encounter into a TED Talk. But I do believe in being mindful enough to notice when a moment of connection presents itself—and taking it. Look someone in the eye. Ask one thoughtful question. Offer an ounce of genuine presence. You never know who might need that small spark of kindness. And you never know what it might give you in return. And as the teens might put it: “Kindness? Yeah… I’m locked in.” (Translation: That’s my priority this year.) Wishing you connection, curiosity, and joy in the year ahead. Warmly, B E T T Y D O LC E , P U B L I S H E R @ROCCITYLIFESTYLE

January 2026 PUBLISHER

Betty Dolce | betty.dolce@citylifestyle.com P U B L I CAT I O N D I R E C TO R

Laura Bennett | laura.bennett@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R

Katrina M. Randall | katrina.randall@citylifestyle.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Sarah Keeler | sarahkeelerb@gmail.com Colleen Farrell | cmfarrell81@gmail.com Marie Gillette S O C I AL M E D I A C O O R D I N ATO R

Ashley Fosdick | amf00275@sjfc.edu C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R

Paul Lossowski

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry COO David Stetler CRO Jamie Pentz CoS Janeane Thompson AD DESIGNER Mary Albers LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 ROC City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the ROC area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions.

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No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in ROC City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / R O C N Y

inside the issue JANUARY 20 2 6 | HEA LT H & W EL L N ES S

20 32

Featured

20 24 32 6

Rochester’s Landscape of Healthy Dining

Flavor, Mindfulness, and a Community Expanding What ‘Healthy’ Really Means

Healing in Motion

Building Strength, Resilience, and Well-being Together

16 On the Cover

Departments

Photographed by Paul Lossowski, the image captures licensed master social worker and CrossFit enthusiast Renae Campbell doing what she does best—guiding people toward whole-person wellness.

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Giving Back LIFE + CULTURE

Eat Right FOOD + BEVERAGE

Get Active WELLNESS

Healthy Lifestyle FITNESS

Realty Report REAL ESTATE

Local Limelight LIFE + CULTURE

Home Update HOME + DESIGN

Events

Health Across Decades Smart Takes on Healthy Aging

Clear the Clutter, Clear Your Mind

Practical Steps and Expert Advice to Help Your Space and Your Mindset Reset

Photography: Paul Lossowski

T H E

A R T

O F

S E L F - C A R E

Choose You Wellness begins with honoring yourself — and the glow you carry.

Start your year with a piece that honors you. Choosing yourself is its own kind of wellness.

Discover your new-year glow.

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JANUARY 2026

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: ROC City Lifestyle Partner & Community Celebration at Prive. Refresh Medical, Cedar and Deed, (1-3) 2: Breanna, Sarah, Shannon—Sarah Rizzo Skin, Spa & Boutique. 3: Sarah Klein, DO with the Sarah Rizzo team 4-7: Holiday Open House at Sarah Rizzo Skin Spa & Boutique

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C I T Y SC E N E

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JANUARY 2026

business monthly A R O U N D U P O F N E W S F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S

Elevate Dance Center Launches Event Space in New Location Elevate Dance Center is expanding into a new home and launching Elevate Events, a renovated space available for weddings, showers, corporate gatherings, and celebrations. Elevate offers a diverse lineup of classes, socials, and community offerings, serving dancers of all ages, backgrounds, and styles. Location: 17 Pitkin Street, Rochester

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JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / R O C N Y

L O C A L OR G A N I Z AT ION S KEEPING ROCHESTER S T R ON G HOW TO GIVE BACK ALL YEAR LONG

ARTICLE BY ROC CITY LIFESTYLE STAFF

G IV IN G BAC K | L I FE + C ULT U RE

As a new year begins, we’re shining a light on local nonprofits that make a lasting difference in the lives of our community and as a reminder to give back all year long. From long-standing organizations that have supported Rochester for generations to newer groups quietly filling vital needs, each one represents the best of our community’s compassion and commitment. We wanted to share a mix of options for anyone looking to give back— whether you give your time, resources, or voice, every act of support helps strengthen the fabric of our city.

ANIMAL RESCUE/PET WELFARE

Lollypop Farm, the Humane Society of Greater Rochester Offering shelter and veterinary services for homeless or abused animals, it has an over 90% save rate for cats and dogs. lollypop.org Animal Service League (ASL) Since 1957, the ALS provides cage-free shelter, foster homes, and vetting for homeless animals in the Rochester area. animalserviceleagueny.org New2U Rescue This volunteer-run dog rescue fosters dogs and helps them find forever homes. Note: No shelter on-site new2urescue.org ROC The Dogs Rescue, Inc. An all-volunteer nonprofit, ROC The Dogs Rescue saves cats and dogs in the Rochester area regardless of size, breed, or medical status. rocthedogsrescue.com Keller’s Kats Rescue, Inc. This rescue is run by a dedicated group of individuals who work tirelessly to find suitable homes for abandoned, lost, and surrendered animals in jeopardy of euthanasia in and around Rochester. https://kellerskatsrescue.org Cleft Rescue Unit Also run by volunteers, Cleft Rescue Unit nonprofit volunteers rescue neonatal puppies with cleft palates and other medical needs. https://crurescue.com

FOOD PANTRIES/HUNGER RELIEF

The People’s Pantry The organization provides groceries, hygiene items, and pet food to individuals and families in Rochester and offers its services without discrimination. peoples-pantry.org Foodlink Serving Greater Rochester and the Finger Lakes region, Foodlink New York leverages food to end hunger and build healthier communities with broad programming. foodlinkny.org St. Peter’s Kitchen Established in 1982, St. Peter's offers daily lunches, a food pantry, social-work services, and telehealth support in Rochester’s west side. stpeterskitchen.org

HOMELESSNESS/HOUSING SUPPORT

Bethany House The Bethany House provides transitional housing and support to women and children in Rochester experiencing homelessness, often due to domestic violence, addiction, or illness. bethanyhouserocny.org Open Door Mission This organization is a Christian rescue mission serving men, women, and children in Rochester with emergency shelter, food, clothing, and longer-term support. opendoormission.com Center for Youth – Safe Harbour Provides case coordination and advocacy for commercially sexually exploited youth (trafficking victims) in Monroe County. centerforyouth.net

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE & HUMAN TRAFFICKING

Willow Domestic Violence Center This organization offers domestic violence survivors in Monroe County free and confidential services, including shelter, advocacy, and support. willowcenterny.org Rochester Regional Coalition Against Human Trafficking (RRCAHT) A community coalition focused on education, advocacy, networking, and support to eliminate human trafficking in the Rochester region. rrcaht.org Angels of Mercy, Inc. Offers programs to educate, protect, and empower women and girls facing domestic violence, human trafficking, and related life challenges. angelsofmercynewyork.org

EDUCATION & LITERACY

Literacy Rochester Improves reading, English language, math, and digital literacy skills of adult learners in Monroe County. literacyrochester.org ROC the Future Alliance Dedicated to improving reading and literacy support, increasing graduation rates, and strengthening parent involvement in Rochester schools. rocthefuture.org

The Salvation Army – Greater Rochester Through its Emergency and Family Services program, the Salvation Army provides food and hygiene bag distribution and community feeding programs. rochesterny.salvationarmy.org

Hillside Family of Agencies The team at Hillside works with youth and families across Western New York on education, behavioral health, job training, and family development. hillside.com

House of Mercy House of Mercy offers food, shelter, clothing, and advocacy to Rochester residents facing poverty and housing insecurity. houseofmercyrochester.org

Open Letter Books From the University of Rochester, this nonprofit literary press specializes in translations to support literacy and reading culture. openletterbooks.org JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / R O C N Y

Pick Your Glow Up Mix for 2026... A step by step guide to feeling fresh in the new year At Envision, we love helping patients find their path to the best version of themselves. It starts with a one hour complimentary VISIA skin analysis with our lead aesthetician, Amanda Phelps. The VISIA is the most comprehensive skin analysis machine on the market and will analyze your skin into 8 different categories. Then, Amanda will review each category with you and help formulate your customized path to achieving your goals.

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Ro c h e s te r ’s Landscape of He a l t hy D i n i n g FLAVOR, MINDFULNESS, AND A COMMUNITY EXPANDING WHAT ‘HEALTHY’ REALLY MEANS

ARTICLE BY MARIE GILLETTE | PHOTOGRAPHY SUBMITTED

Shaina Zazzaro from Effortlessly Healthy

EAT R IGH T | FO O D + BEVE RAGE

Across the Rochester region, health-forward dining has entered a new era, one rooted not in rigid rules but in nourishment, community, and choices that fit real life. Long known for indulgent staples, the area now embraces a movement that reshapes how people eat and drink. From plant-based cafés and vegan butcheries to clean-eating restaurants, acai bowls, zero-proof cocktails, real-food meal prep, and thoughtfully fermented teas, Rochester’s healthy dining scene has become a broad, accessible spectrum with an increasingly shared culture. Rather than simply offering lighter options alongside traditional fare, businesses redefine “healthy,” helping diners reconsider how they fuel their bodies, support their well-being, and shape a lifestyle with intention.

A COMMUNITY REDEFINING ‘HEALTHY’

One of the clearest themes is that healthy eating and drinking are far more personal and flexible than past definitions allowed. At Salty Girl in East Rochester, founders Christina Ohrenstein and Nina Cammilleri built their restaurant on the belief that clean eating should be both accessible and crave-worthy. For them, healthy food means whole ingredients, mindful sourcing, and simplicity. While they mind calories, their focus is on purity, reading labels “three times over” to ensure all ingredients meet their standards. They see clean eating as something people deserve in the flow of everyday life, especially on busy days when quick, wholesome food is hardest to find. The emphasis on real, whole foods also consumes Scottsville-based Effortlessly Healthy, a meal-prep company founded by Shaina Zazzaro. Zazzaro says fueling our bodies instead of starving them creates sustainable wellness, along with prioritizing healthy routines and consistency over shortcuts. EF helps people fit fresh, protein-forward, nutritionally-balanced meals into their lives.

At Playa Bowls, emphasis is on freshness, antioxidants, and fueling an active lifestyle. Their bowls, bright with acai, pitaya, fruits, nuts, and seeds, began for the ocean-loving founders as a healthier alternative to post-surf pizza and fries. Under Jeni Gallina, the newly opened Victor location continues that mission, offering quick, energizing options that prove nutritious food can be fun and delicious. For The Red Fern, founder Andrea Parros emphasizes that health is more holistic than people realize. Her Oxford Street, Rochester café serves vibrant vegan meals and allergy-friendly options, but she often reminds diners that emotional well-being, stress management, joy, and connection are equally important. Red Fern’s menu, ranging from hearty Buddha Bowls to their playful, healthier take on a Rochester Garbage Plate, reflects her belief that plant-based food should be satisfying, flavorful, and accessible to everyone. At Grass Fed, Rochester’s “neighborhood vegan butcher” on Monroe Ave, “healthy” is rooted in comfort food without compromise. Rob Nipe and Nora Rubel craft small-batch vegan meats for anyone looking to enjoy familiar dishes with fewer health drawbacks or ethical concerns. Their goal is simple: delicious flavor and texture made from plant ingredients, enabling families to enjoy cherished meals while feeling good about what’s on the plate. AltBar on Rochester’s East Main Street addresses social well-being, mental health, and inclusion. Founders Bob and Meg Hartman created the alcohol-free bar so adults may gather, enjoy delicious, complex beverages, tasty food, and community, without the negative effects of alcohol consumption. For the Hartmans, healthy drinking means respecting personal choices, acknowledging mental health, and recognizing that alcohol-free nights enhance connection, clarity, and balance. CONTINUED >

“While they mind calories, their focus is on purity, reading labels ‘three times over’ to ensure all ingredients meet their standards.” JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / R O C N Y

At Happy Gut Sanctuary on Mill Street, Rochester, health starts with the microbiome. Founders Catt Hsu and Rob Heffner began brewing fermented tea at home as a response to digestive challenges and a lack of long-term solutions. Their fermented teas, crafted with intention, minimal sugar, and high-quality ingredients, are designed to support gut health while introducing guests to the flavors of exceptional teas. Today, their café blends intentional fermentation with Taiwanese and Korean comfort foods, offering nourishment that’s thoughtful, culturally rooted, and deeply personal. A mocktail from Alt Bar

FLAVOR FIRST, ALWAYS

Uniting Rochesterians is the commitment to making healthy food joyful, not dutiful, and letting natural flavors shine. At Salty Girl, Ohrenstein says they rely on real ingredients to keep dishes “bright, fresh, and layered.” Happy Gut owners echo this, noting

Grass Fed's "Back in the USS Reuben"

that fermentation naturally unlocks flavor and allows tea to reveal subtle complexities without heavy sweeteners or additives. Playa Bowls brings surfer-born creativity to its tropical, colorful bowls, designed to feel like a treat while delivering vitamins, antioxidants, and steady energy.

EAT R IGH T | FO O D + BEVE RAGE

At The Red Fern, Parros shows how delicious, comforting, and nutritious vegan dining can be. Dishes like the Compost Plate or Buffalo Tempeh Mac & Cheese Nachos prove that “vegan” and “indulgent” can co-exist. Grass Fed’s sandwiches and small-batch vegan meats are designed for taste first. Heffner says people focus too much on the “vegan” label and not enough on creating the best possible eating experience for everyone. Here, they have it all. At AltBar, complexity and balance guide every zeroproof drink. Bob delights in watching guests realize an alcohol-free cocktail can be nuanced, bitter, savory, and elevating, far beyond the stereotype. And at Effortlessly Healthy, Zazzaro’s flavorful, chef-prepared meals show that convenience and great taste can co-exist, and that healthy habits stick when food is something people genuinely look forward to eating.

ROCHESTER’S CULTURE OF COLLABORATION AND CARE

Rochester’s healthy dining movement thrives on collaboration. In speaking with business owners, many immediately referenced one another. The Red Fern partners with local businesses, including Grass Fed’s vegan meats and area bakers, and fundraises for animal rescues and maintains a community meals fund. Grass Fed supplies vegan meats and sandwiches to local pizza shops, grocers, cafés, and CSAs, strengthening the broader plant-based ecosystem. Heffner credits the supportive vegan community for collective growth and notes that in all his travels, nowhere rivals Rochester’s healthy dining options. Salty Girl emphasizes local sourcing and uplifts local makers through its boutique space. AltBar supports local nonprofits and collaborates with hospitality professionals who share their curiosity and craft. Happy Gut works with tea experts, coffee roasters, bakers, and culinary artisans to highlight local talent and create intentionally made products. Through sourcing, cross-promotion, and shared values, businesses interconnect and reinforce the region’s wellness-minded landscape.

Red Fern Citrus Flu Fighter

MAKING WELLNESS WORK FOR REAL LIFE

Perhaps the most powerful shift in Rochester’s healthy dining movement today is the understanding that wellness isn’t about perfection, but sustainability, joy, and balance. Effortlessly Healthy promotes consistency over quick fixes. Salty Girl encourages mindfulness and savoring meals. Red Fern highlights mental and emotional well-being. Grass Fed advocates patience and self-kindness in dietary choices. AltBar normalizes alcohol-free options without judgment. Happy Gut emphasizes awareness of consumption, paired with genuine enjoyment. And Playa Bowls celebrates fueling movement and community with fun, vibrant foods. Together, these businesses expand healthy living into something inclusive, flavorful, sustainable, and uniquely Rochester. Here, “healthy” is no longer a narrow category, but a landscape of choices that help people eat, drink, gather, and live in ways that support who they are and who they want to become. Wellness isn’t a trend. It’s a community endeavor, one intentional choice at a time.

JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / R O C N Y

HEALING IN MOTION Building Strength, Resilience, and Well-being Together

ARTICLE BY KATRINA M. RANDALL PHOTOGRAPHY BY PAUL LOSSOWSKI

G E T ACT IV E | WEL L NESS

Before she ever lifted a barbell, Renae Campbell provided free counseling sessions in Ontario County. She was first inspired to help when she attended a forum on substance misuse and listened to a father speak about losing his son to drug use, a moment that stayed with her. Later, the man would ask her if she knew of any groups for parents like him—and it would be a question that would change everything. Wanting to ensure such a group existed, Campbell, a licensed master social worker, put together a proposal for a grief-counseling group and was soon offering free sessions to those looking for support, launching the Community Support Center under the Partnership for Ontario County, a nonprofit organization in Canandaigua. Grief counseling evolved into providing solution-focused short-term therapy, where she found the primary cause of stress and worry was from people feeling disconnected and isolated. It was this work that would eventually plant the seed of whole-person wellness, supporting people not only through counseling but through movement and connection. From hiking trips and kayaking excursions, to art experiences, Campbell planned activities meant to bring people together outside the traditional counseling setting. It was during these outings that she noticed a pattern she couldn’t ignore: Her clients consistently felt better when they were moving their bodies. That realization sparked the idea for a community fitness program that would be accessible to anyone who needed it.

After reaching out to every gym she could think of, Stefan Glover, owner of Canandaigua CrossFit, called her back— only 10 minutes later, she notes. The voicemail from Glover is one she hasn’t deleted in the better part of a decade because it was a catalyst that set her on her own wellness journey. For Glover, it was an opportunity to carry his mission forward. “The goal is as long as people are learning something and having a good time and they smile when they leave,” he said. “I didn’t get into training to make a ton of money. It was the passion versus the potential gain of what a gym can bring you and rather the prestige of the craft.” Although determined to create an environment of wellness for the people she served, Campbell herself was at a point in her life where she wasn’t working out and weighed upwards of 200 pounds. And while she organized the “Community Program” at the gym, she had no interest in CrossFit herself. “You don’t think you can do it, then you do it, and then you realize you can do something else.” Today, she’s certified in CrossFit and has long since taken over as the lead coach for her Tuesday and Sunday sessions, when the Community Program runs. But Campbell is in the gym more than just those two days— whether she’s doing CrossFit, or more recently training for the Powerlifting America Holiday Havoc competition, she’s dedicated to not only her mental health but also her physical health, spending six days a week at the gym immersed in community and fitness.

In the first few years, the Community Program was free because she paid for everyone out of her own pocket, wanting it to be accessible for anyone who wanted to come. While a small fee is now collected ($10 or $5 for those 21 and under), she still ensures that everyone can participate. If someone can’t afford it, she has a reservoir of donations that go toward paying people’s class fee. The impact has been immeasurable, for her and for her students. Since starting CrossFit, Campbell has gone from adjunct instructor to full-time faculty at Finger Lakes Community College, a step she once doubted she could take but achieved through a renewed confidence in herself. The transformations she’s witnessed in her attendees have been just as powerful. She’s seen CrossFit help people avoid drugs and alcohol, manage anxiety and depression, and feel less alone. For Melissa Badger, a longtime member of the Community Program, it’s been life changing. Initially, it allowed her to get back to the gym when she was financially unable to swing a membership. As a community-based fitness program, it also brought her connection. “I’ve seen people struggling in every aspect of life, and they’re finding a way to take care of themselves,” she says. Now, a coach alongside Campbell, she says helping people find their way is one of her favorite parts. “I’ve had plenty of struggles with mental health, the way I’ve been able to manage that is through this connection and movement with likeminded people.”

Like Badger, Sierra Foote has found confidence through the program, Campbell’s guidance, and CrossFit. Foote had always wanted to be a part of a gym, so when she saw Campbell post about the program on Facebook, she decided to give it a try. “It was probably the most inviting environment I’ve ever felt in a gym environment,” she says. Much of that has to do with the supportive, community atmosphere—but also Campbell herself. “The way she’s so comforting, encouraging, and willing to help you learn constantly,” she explains. “If you ever have anything in life you need to talk about right now, we can sit down and talk about that as well as get in a good workout—her attitude was very welcoming and comforting.” Now pregnant, Foote says she never would have had the physical and mental stamina to push herself to stay active during her pregnancy if it hadn’t been for the Community Program. “Renae is a gift to the world. She’s a light in the life of a lot of people,” adds Badger. “She is every bit of the light and the healing and the warmth she shows people—that is just her. She makes everything safe. She’s funny and encourages people to push themselves but with a little bit of humor.” The Community Program gives people a place to build strength together, in camaraderie and in the shared pursuit of wellness. And that strength extends far beyond the physical—participants grow mentally, emotionally, and socially as well, Campbell says. CONTINUED >

JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / R O C N Y

Her work hasn’t just transformed others, it’s reshaped her own health journey. Today, Campbell can keep up with her son in ways she couldn’t before. “If my son wants to run a 5K in a week, I can sign up and run a 5K with him,” she says. Recently, when running late for a hockey game, they sprinted the entire way. Before the Community Program, she couldn’t walk for more than 20 minutes without her knees swelling. “My son is autistic. I’m responsible for him the rest of his life. I want to be pretty damn healthy. I see longevity there.”

“I want everyone to have access to feeling better.”

Looking ahead, Campbell hopes to expand the Community Program by adding another class built around half-hour group sessions, a goal that may soon be within reach as she awaits word on a potential grant to support the program. “I believe everyone wants to feel better. I want everyone to have access to feeling better,” she says, noting that if she could personally pick up anyone who needed transportation, she would. “When people realize it’s available to them, and you believe in them, they begin to believe in themselves.”

G E T ACT IV E | WEL L NESS

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C A DES

H E A LT H

O S R S C

Most of us want to stay healthy as we age. A new year offers an opportunity to reflect on your well-being and commit to healthier habits. The basics of healthy living stay the same from year to year—eat well, stay active, keep up with medical care—but the details shift as you age. Here’s what experts say about caring for your body, mind, and relationships through life’s stages. CONTINUED >

SMART TAKES ON HEALTHY AGING ARTICLE BY SARAH KEELER PHOTOGRAPHY SUBMITTED

H EA LT H Y LIF E ST Y LE | FIT N E SS

Kate Wheeler, a nationally certified Pilates teacher

Christy Salafia, a board-certified nurse practitioner and owner of il-LUMA-nate (left) and Alexx Peck, RN (right)

Despina Mitchell, LMFT, CST

JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / R O C N Y

KEEP MOVING

Like it or not, regular physical activity plays a key role in slowing down the body’s aging process. The World Health Organization recommends that adults ages 18–64 engage in 150–300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise each week. That might include taking a brisk 30-minute walk, joining a cardio dance class, taking your bike out for a spin. But aerobic activity alone isn’t enough to keep you feeling your best as you age. Strength training matters too, especially for women over 40. During and after menopause, hormonal shifts accelerate loss of bone density, increasing women’s risks of developing osteoporosis. Strength training even just twice per week can slow bone loss, and even build new bone mass in some bodies, reports Harvard Health Publishing. Kate Wheeler, a nationally certified Pilates teacher, encourages clients to approach movement with curiosity. “You are not a machine to be corrected or treated,” she says. “You are a living system.” At her Fairport studio, Crescent Trail Pilates, Wheeler teaches exercises developed by Joseph Pilates that build strength, mobility, and body awareness. Pilates, she says, “teaches the ability to problem solve through movement.” Older adults often seek out Pilates to improve balance and prevent falls, while athletes use it to correct muscle imbalances. If you’re new to Pilates, Wheeler suggests beginning with private instruction for the best results.

“People are connected to work all the time,” Mitchell says. “Home used to be a place of respite where you’d be disconnected from work and connected to your family.”

FEEL YOUR BEST WITH HEALTHY SKIN

When most people think about how aging affects their appearance, they think about their skin. But skin isn’t just the first thing others notice—it’s also a vital organ that requires care and maintenance. “As we age, our bodies break down and no longer produce elastin and collagen,” says Christy Salafia, a board-certified nurse practitioner and owner of il-LUMA-nate, a medical spa in Brighton. When this occurs, skin develops lines, wrinkles, and sagging. Salafia says preventive care should start early, ideally in your 20s, to help skin age gracefully. At the most basic level, she recommends wearing sunscreen daily and applying a high-quality vitamin C serum. By your 30s, retinol and a reliable moisturizer should become part of your routine. Products with peptides and exosomes (ingredients that help boost collagen) may be added in your 30s, 40s, and beyond. “Not all skin is created equal and not all products are created equal,” Salafia emphasizes. Look for medical-grade options and consider consulting a licensed esthetician who can help tailor a plan to your skin’s needs. For those willing to invest more, medical procedures such as microneedling can serve as early intervention for age-related changes. With the growing popularity of injectables like Botox and fillers, Salafia urges clients to prioritize training and safety over cost. In New York, only licensed medical providers may perform injections. “Going for the cheapest option can put you at risk for poor results or dangerous side effects,” she cautions. Beyond aesthetics, Salafia emphasizes the importance of regular dermatology checkups, especially in your 50s and 60s, when skin cancer risk increases. “Trust your provider and make sure your goals are aligned,” she says.

H EA LT H Y LIF E ST Y LE | FIT N E SS

NURTURE RELATIONSHIPS THAT LAST

Social-emotional wellness is an often overlooked facet of healthy aging, and it’s one that benefits from proactive attention early in life. Healthy relationships provide emotional support, reduce isolation, and help you stay resilient during life’s transitions. Despina Mitchell, a licensed marriage and family therapist, notes that many couples begin noticing relationship challenges in their 30s as career and parenting demands take center stage. “People are connected to work all the time,” she says. “Home used to be a place of respite where you’d be disconnected from work and connected to your family.” “You need to set boundaries for yourself, like setting office hours, especially if you work from home,” Mitchell adds. Parenthood adds another layer of complication. “People justify pouring everything into their kids and stop prioritizing time together,” she says. As a result, empty nesters in their 50s and 60s may feel like strangers. Mitchell estimates that at least 75% of the couples she counsels aren’t struggling because they don’t love each other—they’re struggling because they no longer know each other at this new age. “How different is the 20-something version of you compared to your 50-something version of you?” That’s why she encourages couples to stay intentional about spending time together. She compares the process to continuing education: “You’re regularly checking in and asking, ‘What do you need from me? What do I need from you?’” With knowledge, intention and the right support, your relationships can age with strength, confidence and vitality, and so can you.

realty report A S A M P L E O F R E C E N T LY S O L D P R O P E R T I E S I N R O C , N Y. TOWN/ZIP CODE

ORIGINAL PRICE

SOLD PRICE

%SOLD/LIST

AV E R AG E D O M

Victor 14564

$575,659

$568,226

-1%

Fairport 14450

$415,445

$567,755

27%

Penfield 14526

$399,070

$435,568

8.00%

Pittsford 14534

$508,646

$573,803

11.00%

City/Brighton 14618

$387,504

$432,428

10%

City/Eastside 14610

$270,614

$291,428

7.00%

West Irondequoit 14617

$235,315

$268,281

12%

Webster 14580

$447,407

$470,559

5.00%

East Irondequoit 14622

$192,126

$225,467

15.00%

Ontario 14519

$233,817

$278,301

16%

This data is a sampling of sold properties from November 2025. Source: IRES MLS system.

JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / R O C N Y

New Year, Fresh Perspectives As another year turns, Rochester’s leaders and creators take a collective pause to reflect on what has shaped them and what they hope to carry forward. In a season often associated with resolutions and reinvention, five local voices offer something deeper than checklists or self-improvement plans. They speak to gratitude as a grounding force, growth as a continual process, and intention as a quiet but powerful compass for the year ahead.

Malik Evans, Rochester City Mayor

Rochester Mayor Malik Evans

Rochester Leaders on Gratitude, Growth, and Intentions

ARTICLE BY MARIE GILLETTE | PHOTOGRAPHY SUBMITTED

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | L I FE + CU LT U RE

As 2025 draws to a close, Rochester Mayor Malik Evans leans into the values that have guided him through a year marked by achievement and profound personal loss. He is especially grateful for his faith, family, and friendships, anchors that ground him daily. Gratitude, for him, is an active practice. He makes a point of thanking the people who support him, and he spends a few quiet minutes each day in reflection, mindful of “a past to remember, a present to live in, and a future to build.” This year brought difficult reminders of life’s fragility. The passing of his sister and a longtime team member at young ages deepened his commitment to focus on what truly matters and to rise above negativity that can cloud public life. Gratitude, he believes, is a catalyst for growth, personally, spiritually, and across the community. His own growth is fueled by simple goals: to learn something new every day and to help his city thrive. His family and the Rochester community inspire him to remain curious and adaptable, and he views learning as a lifelong journey. His hopes for Rochester reflect that spirit. He wishes residents to recognize the good in themselves and in one another, shifting from a focus on what’s wrong to what’s possible.

Erica Fee, Rochester Fringe Festival Founder and CEO

Maggie Coleman, RocGirlWalks founder

Erica Fee reflects on a year shaped by gratitude, perspective, and renewed purpose. Now also representing Rochester and the Finger Lakes on the New York State Council on the Arts, she says the dual role feels especially meaningful because of her love for this region and the people who shape it. As the Fringe prepares for its 15th season in 2026, Fee finds herself grateful for the collective effort that makes it the largest multidisciplinary arts festival in New York State. She says the staff, artists, and a community hungry for new ideas have risen together. Her sense of gratitude is also personal. After her father and a founding Fringe member died in 2024, Fee reevaluated her path, leading to her reopening her production company, Your Attention Please. This year has been busy but joyful, and she reaffirms that growing older is a gift, with more time, more wisdom, and fewer repeated mistakes. Her intention for 2026 is simple: Stay curious, embrace opportunities as they arise, and savor what makes life meaningful.

A growing force in cultivating connection across Rochester, Coleman finds herself most grateful for community and connection, whether that’s clients, friends, or the women who consistently show up to walk, talk, and support one another. Within community, she says, “gratitude is contagious,” creating a ripple effect of support and closeness. Gratitude, for Coleman, isn’t just a feeling. It’s a practice that fuels growth by keeping us open to lessons, possibility, and one another. Year-end reflection offers a needed pause to acknowledge growth and honor progress, and she says her biggest lesson in 2025 was learning to trust herself, her voice, her path, and her way of showing up. Her hope for the year ahead is that the women of RocGirlWalks continue to feel seen, connected, and empowered, and that the community keeps expanding in meaningful, authentic ways.

Rt. Rev. Kara Wagner Sherer, Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Rochester The Rt. Rev. Kara Wagner Sherer, newly serving in Rochester, says her life feels “rich and full,” leaving her with more gratitude than she can name. “What am I not grateful for?” she reflects, noting that gratitude is woven into her daily life and her vocation. As a Christian and a bishop, she sees thankfulness as foundational, saying, “Every day begins with gratitude— gratitude for the very life God has given us, the people we share it with, and the earth itself.” Self-reflection, she believes, shouldn’t be saved for the year’s end. In an always-online culture, she encourages pausing “before we text or post” to reshape how we speak and listen. This past year deepened her sense of purpose as she watched clergy and Episcopalians "show up in times of crisis," caring for neighbors, supporting immigrants, celebrating individuals from all walks of life, defending democracy, and protecting creation. Her hope for the community is greater unity, civility, and commitment to the common good. “You have within yourself the gifts you need to thrive, but you can’t truly realize those gifts without the help of others… I hope this year you can fulfill your incredible potential.”

Dr. Seanelle Hawkins, Urban League of Rochester President and CEO Dr. Seanelle Hawkins steps into the new year grounded in gratitude, renewed creativity, and a clearer sense of purpose. For her, gratitude begins at home; her family remains her foundation no matter how full her days become. Thankfulness extends to her work as well. Leading the Urban League is, she says, not just a responsibility but a privilege she approaches with intention. Gratitude also keeps her centered in a world that moves quickly. She begins each morning with prayer and pauses throughout the day to thank God for the gift of time, perspective, and possibility. These small moments of stillness opened the door to rediscovery this year, such as the afternoon she watched leaves fall outside her office and felt inspired to write poetry again. “It reminded me that joy lives in us, even when we forget to make room for it,” she reflects. The year brought challenges that strengthened her resilience and confidence. She learned to lean into difficult tasks, trust her capacity, and reshape her experiences rather than be defined by them. In 2026, Hawkins lets go of the belief that productivity defines her worth. Her focus for the year is to imagine boldly, innovate freely, and make space for herself without apology. Her message for the community is clear: Prioritize joy, cherish connection, and walk boldly into what comes next. CONTINUED >

JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / R O C N Y

Erica Fee, Rochester Fringe Festival founder and CEO

Maggie Coleman, RocGirlWalks founder

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | L I FE + CU LT U RE

Rt. Rev. Kara Wagner Sherer

Dr. Seanelle Hawkins, Urban League of Rochester President and CEO

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JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / R O C N Y

CLEAR the Clutter, CLEAR YOUR Mind Practical Steps and Expert Advice to Help Your Space and Your Mindset Reset ARTICLE BY BY COLLEEN M. FARRELL PHOTOGRAPHY SUBMITTED

Whether you’ve always been a tidy person or aspire to be one, many of us start off the new year vowing to improve our ways. After all, January is National Get Organized Month. Research shows that living in a disorganized space can make it hard to focus, cause irritability, stress, and even create arguments among family members. A study in “Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin,” reports finding higher levels of cortisol (the stress hormone) in people whose spaces were not clean and tidy. For instance, Maddie Johnston finds it difficult to function if her space isn’t put together. A junior at Rochester Institute of Technology, she’s graduating early this year with a degree in biomedical sciences. “It helps me to be in a space that’s clean,” she says. “I can’t do work unless my bed is made, things are put away, my clothes are put away. “ But not everyone is born with the organizing gene. That’s where a professional organizer can make all the difference—guiding clients through what to keep, what to toss, and how to make their space actually work for them. Rochester is home to several professionals who specialize in helping people take control of their space and make it truly functional. According to Christine DiGiovanni, owner of Organized at Home in Irondequoit, “You want your space to be relaxing and comfortable. You don’t want to walk into your house and see just a mess everywhere.” But cutting through the clutter and figuring out what to do with it all can be overwhelming and even emotional.

H OM E U P DAT E | HO M E + D E SIGN

Dina Madigan, owner of Dina Organizes in Pittsford.

Christine DiGiovanni, owner of Organized at Home in Irondequoit

For some clients, “it’s definitely very deep,” says Dina Madigan, owner of Dina Organizes in Pittsford. “I say to them, ‘We will get through this.’” Before you begin, both experts say to create three categories: toss, donate, keep. The most important step is the purge, DiGiovanni says. This is where you throw out things that are broken or ruined and donate what you can. Knowing your stuff will benefit and maybe even be loved by someone else can help you let go of it. Don’t be alarmed as you watch the piles grow. “[Decluttering] kind of gets worse before it gets better,” Madigan says. If the goal is to clean out a large space, start small, even if it’s one drawer. “It’s okay to put a timer on your phone for, like, 15 minutes and do some work, and when the timer goes off, give yourself a break,” explains DiGiovanni. If you aren’t ready to part with something, date it, put it in a box, and set it aside. Unless it’s seasonal, if you haven’t used it in a month, it may be time to let it go. Madigan says the “organizing magic” happens with whatever remains. If your budget allows, she recommends plastic bins labeled with their contents; if not, boxes work just as well. Either way, you’ll not only clean up your space—you’ll also make it easier to find what you need, when you need it. A popular idea in the kitchen is putting everything in glass containers. DiGiovanni did this in her pantry. While the containers were an investment, she says she’s saving money in the long run because she’s not buying food and ingredients she already has. How to maintain your new-and-improved space? Clean up every day: Both experts don’t go to bed without tidying up. That way, you’re not starting the day stressed or distracted by last night’s mess. Out with the old: If you bring something in, take something out. If you buy a new pair of jeans, donate something from your closet. This helps you manage your stuff—and your wallet. You may find that you have more of a shopping problem than an organizational problem, Madigan says. Create a schedule: For example, Monday could be the day you wash your bed linens. On Wednesday, clean the bathroom. Don’t leave all of your cleaning for one day, DiGiovanni advises.

A pantry after Christine DiGiovanni organized it

Put it away right away: It’s tempting after a busy day to just drop your stuff on the nearest chair when you get home. You make more work for yourself if you don’t put it in the correct place. “Taking that extra step to put things away in the proper spot will keep you organized,” Madigan says. Eventually, DiGiovanni says, it really does become a way of life, one that can have a ripple effect on your overall well-being. You won’t be rushing to find something and wind up late for an appointment. You will have what you need to make dinner instead of getting take-out. You’ll have time to do the fun things you want to do—and not feel guilty about it. “If you feel good about yourself and your space,” Madigan says, “then I do believe the law of attraction will open up. Good things happen.”

JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / R O C N Y

JANUARY 2026

events A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LO C A L E V E N T S JANUARY 4 TH

Disney On Ice! Comes to the Blue Cross Arena Blue Cross Arena, 1 War Memorial Square, Rochester, | 11:00 AM Join hosts Mickey and Minnie as Disney’s Frozen and Encanto take over the Blue Cross Arena this month with Disney On Ice! Watch Anna as she goes on an adventure to find Elsa and Mirabel’s journey to save her enchanted family home alongside her sisters, Isabela and Luisa. Visit disneyonice.com for more information. Tickets on sale now. JANUARY 17TH

ChocoVino Festival at Canandaigua Hotel 205 Lakeshore Drive, Canandaigua, New York 14424 | 1:00 PM The first annual Chocolate and Wine Festival is set to bring together vendors from across the Northeast for a day of sampling and celebration. Guests can enjoy unlimited tastings of food, wine, sweets, and specialty treats during either of the two sessions. Tickets are $35 and include a commemorative sampling glass. Times: 1–4 p.m. or 5–8 p.m.

Check out Rochester's Newest Event Venue Brought to you by Avvino The Duke offers modern amenities in a unique and historic location in downtown Rochester! Holiday Party? Rehearsal Dinner? Corporate Retreat? We have you covered! The Duke can Accommodate up to 140 Guests Seated and up to 250 Guests for a Cocktail Style Reception. Scan the QR Code To Learn More

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JANUARY 24 TH

Dance Festival: American Masters With Garth Fagan Dance Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre, 26 Gibbs Street, Rochester | 7:30 PM The RPO is launching its first Dance Festival with an opening performance conducted by Aram Demirjian. The evening features Garth Fagan Dance dancing to Leonard Bernstein’s Three Dance Episodes from On the Town, Philip Glass’ Days and Nights in Rocinha, and Aaron Copland’s Symphony No. 3. • Saturday, January 24 at 7:30 p.m. • Sunday, January 25 at 2 p.m.

EVE N TS

Restoring A Smile - With Purpose While esthetics is a major part of her work, Dr. Carranza views it differently than the typical “smile makeover” trend. For her, beauty only matters when function, health, and long-term stability are honored first. That philosophy is evident in her veneer cases, implant reconstructions, and full-mouth rehabilitations. Patients often come to her after years of avoiding the dentist, ashamed of their smiles or exhausted from failed treatments. What they find instead is someone who listens without judgement.

Meet Julia, a real patient of Dr. Gabriela Carranza. After restoring her smile with a highly specialized, minimally invasive approach—her confidence was transformed. “For Julia, I chose a conservative approach because of her age. Although I often use veneers across all front teeth, her natural smile was already beautiful. My goal was to create Meet Dr. Gabriela Carranza, a Board-Certified Prosthodontist with an Implant Fellowship at the University of Rochester’s Eastman Institute of Oral Health. With extensive training in Prosthodontics and implants, Dr. Carranza brings world-class expertise to the Greater Rochester area. With over 15 years of advanced dental education and clinical practice, she is known for her thoughtful patient communication, meticulous planning, and eye for aesthetic harmony. Whether you are facing a complex reconstruction or seeking a subtle enhancement, you’re in exceptionally skilled hands.

restorations so seamlessly blended that no one could ever tell which teeth were natural and which were restored. I take great pride in matching a single tooth perfectly within a full natural smile— or delivering a full-mouth reconstruction that looks effortlessly real.” Visit victorprosthodontics.com to see Julia's full transformation.

victorprosthodontics.com | 585-924-4180 | 6539 Anthony Drive, Suite B Victor 14564