Explore Rochester

Working in state government has been the most fun and eye-opening experience of my life. I’ve traveled to so many corners of the county and state, meet amazing people, and am always learning something new. In my role as a Communications Director, I write speeches, plan events, and meet with people, agencies, organizations. I also help to raise awareness about NYS programs and policies that help to support families, businesses, neighborhoods and more.

Government works best when people participate. Especially at the local and state level because this is where people have the most impact. Your participation is how we learn what people need and want and I am so honored to have the opportunity to serve the public through my work. This week we hosted a press conference at , which has been supporting Rochester’s Northeast neighborhoods since 1901 and is preparing for the next 100+ years so they can continue being a foundation for Rochester families. It;s about working for and with the people, helping to bolster those safety nets and opportunities that lift people up. // 6/8

So it really is true that the best thing about Rochester aren’t the places you go, but the people you know! A few years ago, my friends and I started what we affectionately call, “The Mother’s Book Club” - even though we’re not all moms and we only spend about 20 minutes actually discussing the book! Some of us finish reading it, but if you hate it or life is chaos, just bail but show up to bookclub anyway. The only expectation is that you really cannot expect us to be serious about the book - whether it’s a Pulitzer prize winner or total s**t. We all love to read, but still - the book is just not the point.

People come and go, they invite friends and their friends sometimes show up or invite friends too. Sometimes bookclub becomes a clothing swap, or ‘my parents are downsizing so who wants these random scarves…’ or a recipe tasting club. Sometimes it’s also a birthday party, a venting session or a press-on nail convention. Babies are welcome. Husbands are not. There is always food - even if it’s just candy and hummus, but always definitely wine (and popcorn). Some of us hang out outside of bookclub, some of us don’t. But these are my people, because they get it - the book is a lighthouse: it shows you where to go, but otherwise...

If you really want to explore Rochester, grab a group of people, keep your expectations modest, and pretend it’s 1985 when people hung out in each other’s houses, chatting and snacking. No tagging, no social, just back to basics! // 5/8

One of my favorite things about living in Rochester is the history that is literally found in every nook and cranny. These beautiful old buildings and homes are our shared history and are portals to

There is nothing more exciting than walking into a building or home, and randomly happening upon an original (working) 1930s toilet or the most ornate, original grates. I especially love doorknobs. These chrome beauties were spotted in a 1920’s arts and craft house on Seneca Parkway in Maplewood which had the most incredible, fully restored and operational original bathroom. A true and utter dream. // 4/8

This is a WV x NY cross-over and something of an origin story. The first time I heard about zoning was in my hometown of Shenandoah Jct, WV. A few years ago there was a huge fight about whether or not a high-polluting insulation factory could be placed on historic farmland in the county where I grew up. The local planning commission overruled many, many residents to approve the project - and the loophole used: ZONING. You can find out more info by googling “Rockwool WV”

Zoning is about the most boring sounding thing imaginable but it has enormous implications for every community - from where houses and businesses can go (and what kind), the width of streets, to billboards, greenspace, libraries - even data centers. It has a lot of positives, but it can also do incredible harm (redlining, insulation factories…). Community-members have the right to weigh in on zoning cases in their area, but most people don’t know what zoning is or what it means....

Right now, Rochester is updating their zoning plan, called the Zoning Alignment Project (or ZAP). Last year, and I hosted a workshop about zoning to a standing room only crowd, and Zoning Is for Everyone () was born! City Council and City Planning commission are currently reviewing the ZAP proposal, but there’s still time for residents to share feedback. If you’d like more information - send me a message! Knowledge really, really is power in this case. // 3/8

You know what they say about being the change… About 2 years ago I got involved in my neighborhood association because I love where I live and wanted to be part of shaping the future of the neighborhood. Neighborhood associations get a bad rap for being all NIMBYism and old people (and there is definitely a lot of this!) but it’s time for a glow up!

Every year, hosts an annual flower sale. This year, we moved the event, partnered with on a special drink and brought in a fresh variety of plants. It was the kick-off to a whole vibe shift! If you find yourself scrolling or strolling by, pause and consider going to an event or reaching out to a neighbor. Neighborhood and business associations throughout the city are doing so many fun and beneficial things that uplift our immediate communities. You will make friends of all ages, learn a lot, have impact with the city and see the results every day! And I promise, one or two new voices can make the difference between the crotchety, status quo and a party in the park. // 2/8

Although Rochester officially celebrates next month, June is Pride month. This weekend was ’s annual White Party. Rules are simple: wear all white and dance your heart out to club hits from the eras. It’s held at in the Sibley Building and it truly feels like you’re in a disco snowglobe with everything blanketed in sparkly white! Every year, they close out the night to Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas is You.” If you are still there, it is mandatory to get on the dancefloor. It’s absolutely the most fun fundraiser of the year, but it’s also one that helps to support affordable and accessible healthcare to people throughout the Finger Lakes. // 1/8

Introducing our week 597 (Yr. 12 Wk. 24) contributor:
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Hi - I’m Mary. I’m originally from WV and have lived in Rochester for over a decade now. It’s the longest I’ve ever lived in one place as an adult. I absolutely adore this historic, bohemian city and I am so proud to call this community home. I’m a tireless believer in the power of neighborhoods and am very involved in my neighborhood association . It’s a great way to bring people together around things we care about and has been an awesome community support system!

I work in state government for Assemblymember Harry Bronson () and am very passionate about what I do. It’s that perfect mix of work (that only sometimes feels like work 😉) and community building. The people I meet and the things I learn, inspire and motivate me every day. I’m also a firm believer that you can work in government, while wearing very fun clothes, which includes a lot of mini skirts and vintage skirt suits. In fact, one of the best things about the NYS government is the incredible fashion you’ll find from across the state. 

I’m a mom of two boys and married to a small business owner (). I also like to bake, experiment with press-on nails, read, take walks or bike around the city, am obsessed with my backyard garden and drink a lot of coffee. I’m excited to share the Rochester I love!
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My final spot- my sanctuary. Looking back on the last 5 summers I’ve been fortunate enough to spend on the water it’s funny how much has changed. Early on you could find me tied up with other boats, music blasting and drinks flowing almost daily. These days I’m lucky to see it once a week. I’ve traded EDM and liquor for country music and a nap. This is my ultimate reset.

In the age of instant access and constant notifications it’s so important to create boundaries and carve out time for yourself. Whether it be on a boat, in a museum, in a park or on a walk in your neighborhood, I encourage you to put the phone down and do the
same.

Thanks for joining me this week. Rochester is a special place and there’s plenty of it to believe in. Have a great summer, I’ll see you out there. // .ambro 8/8

Welcome to my favorite sports bar, Tin Cup Social. Although this place is known for its Sunday Bills crowd, I love how great they are at balancing food, drink and fun. One moment they’re making a killer espresso martini or old fashioned and an hour later they’ve got Jack Fire lined up in a shot ski. Whether it’s a casual date night, a night out with the guys or catching a big game they have you covered. They also serve fries that will beat your favorite fast-food chain.

Owners Mike and Dan have done a phenomenal job at getting involved in the community. They frequently host charity events for just about any cause you can name. 20 minutes after this picture was taken they hosted Bills long snapper Reid Ferguson as guest bartender to donate tips to EquiCenter.

I’m amazed by the growth of Fairport, particularly around the Cannery. This place conveniently boomed as I was graduating from the Park Ave and East/Alexander bar scene. I can’t name too many other places you can find 2 breweries, a distillery, Italian restaurant and 8 bars all within walking distance. We’ll ignore that parking lot situation. // .ambro 7/8

One of my latest discoveries in Irondequoit is Sips. Located just steps away from the O’Rourke bridge it’s a great place to grab a bite and a cold brew before a walk at Turning Point Park or heading to the lake.

Beyond the espresso and paninis, I love this place for its great service and the fact it’s locally owned. In a time where corporate chains and cafes are popping up every half mile on every major road it’s important to support the people who live in your neighborhood and choose to develop the area. // .ambro 6/8