ROC, NY December 2025

Holidays & Giving

December is a month when many dream of a soft winter blanket of snow—one that beautifully complements the festive lights and décor that adorn our homes and neighborhoods. This season, we wanted our cover to reflect that quiet magic, and photographer Paul Lossowski captured it perfectly. The cover photo resonated deeply with our team in the way it captures an evergreen in such a close, almost intimate way. So simple. So beautiful. I couldn’t resist also sharing another of Paul’s images here in this letter—a squirrel (a personal favorite of mine) fully embracing the winter’s snow. It’s a gentle reminder to find joy and warmth in even the coldest days.

December has a way of filling our days with meaning. It’s a month rich with holidays—each with its own time-honored traditions, foods, and symbols of light, hope, and togetherness.

In our feature “Diverse December: Celebrating Light, Hope and Community,” our editor and writer Katrina Randall explores how members of our community celebrate both well-known and lesser-known holidays that brighten this time of year.

This season, the word giving often brings to mind holiday shopping and the joy of finding just the right gift for family and friends. But it’s also a season for charitable giving—for extending kindness to those who need it most. In Heart of the Community, we spotlight local businesses and organizations that use their talents to help others—during the holidays and throughout the year.

The end of the year invites reflection—a pause to appreciate how far we’ve come and the people who make our community shine. With this, our ninth issue, I hope ROC City Lifestyle has given you reasons to pause, smile, and celebrate the extraordinary spirit that lives here in Greater Rochester.

Thank you for the gift of your time, attention, and engagement. May this season bring you peace amidst the bustle—moments to light candles, share a meal, and reflect on the many blessings in your life.

With gratitude,

BETTY DOLCE, PUBLISHER @ROCCITYLIFESTYLE

December 2025

PUBLISHER

Betty Dolce | betty.dolce@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Laura Bennett | laura.bennett@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

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

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Suzie Wells | suzphone8@yahoo.com

Sarah Keeler | sarahkeelerb@gmail.com

Lisa Barbato | lbarbato22@gmail.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Ashley Fosdick | amf00275@sjfc.edu

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 Proverbs 3:5-6

city scene

Attendees at the Threads of Expression Interactive fashion experience, (1-4) 1: Betty Dolce and Rebecca Brown. 2: International jazz singer Robin McKelle with Pia Nault. 3: Amy Derks and Julie Bishop 4: ROC City Lifestyle team Katrina Randall, Laura Bennett, and Betty Dolce. 5: Refresh Medical Pumpkin Spice Social, (5 & 6) Barb Bucci and Dr. Rich Coia. 6: Amy Perlis and Dr. Stephanie Corey. 7: Whole Latte Love team members joined the excitement at Aporia Coffee’s Latte Art Throwdown.

business monthly

Big Opening for Little House

The North Winton Village adds another gem with the opening of Little House, an espresso bar with pastries and frozen bananas! Enjoy the patio seating and know that dogs are welcome. 2320 East Main St., Rochester.

Scan to read more

Newly Remodeled Pittsford MRKT Available for Retail and Events

With approximately 700 square feet of open space, furnished with a creative mix of modern and vintage finds, Pittsford MRKT provides retailers with a space to launch their brand, test the market, and build customer loyalty. Short-term rental options provide businesses with the opportunity to boost visibility and sales without having to sign a long-term contract. In addition to serving as a pop up space, the MRKT is also a great place to host events.

Scan to read more

The Revelry Is Now Rev BBQ With An Outpost Too!

Open for dinner Wednesday to Saturday and brunch on Sunday, the Revelry on University Avenue started as a Southern-inspired restaurant and now is fully wearing its love of BBQ in its new name and menu. In addition, they have added Rev BBQ Outpost in the adjacent space just across the parking lot offering platters, hand-helds, salads, and fresh ‘cue daily during lunch hours Monday to Saturday.

Scan to read more

The Gift of Eyesight

HOW

TWO

ROCHESTER DOCTORS

HELP PATIENTS SEE THEIR BEST

ARTICLE BY SUZIE WELLS

PHOTOGRAPHY SUBMITTED

When Dr. Sarah Klein joined Dr. Earlene Siebold’s private ophthalmology practice, it wasn’t just a career move—it was a partnership built on shared purpose, preserving and restoring the “gift of eyesight.”

After a decade at the University of Rochester’s Flaum Eye Institute, Dr. Klein, an optometrist specializing in primary eye care and ocular disease, was drawn to Dr. Siebold’s unique expertise. Dr. Siebold is one of the most experienced glaucoma specialists in the region, and Klein explains, “I’ve always found glaucoma fascinating. It’s a problem-solving specialty. Diagnosing it can be complex, and it’s incredibly rewarding to help patients regain or maintain their sight.”

Dr. Siebold has been caring for patients in Rochester for more than 40 years, breaking barriers as one of the few women to run her own solo ophthalmology practice at a time when the field was overwhelmingly male. A board-certified ophthalmologist and fellowshiptrained glaucoma specialist and surgeon, she treats patients from across the region who are referred by other eye specialists for surgical management. Her office combines cutting-edge technology with a personal, compassionate approach.

Together, Dr. Siebold and Dr. Klein provide comprehensive eye care, including glaucoma treatment and surgery, cataract surgery, diabetic eye exams, and management of dry eye and macular degeneration. For Klein, joining Siebold’s practice has been “a perfect fit”—a place where she can continue to serve patients while deepening her expertise in a specialty that inspires her every day.

“Many eye diseases, including glaucoma, develop slowly and don’t show symptoms until significant damage has occurred,” Dr. Klein notes. “That’s why early detection is so important. Regular eye exams can save your sight.”

Tips to Maintain and Retain Healthy Eyesight

Both doctors emphasize that healthy vision begins with prevention. Their actionable suggestions include:

• Protect your eyes from UV exposure. Wear sunglasses outdoors to reduce eyestrain, ease dryness, and lower your risk for macular degeneration.

• Maintain overall health. Regular medical checkups, exercise, and good nutrition all contribute to eye health. Vitamins A, C, and E promote eye health, and Omega-3 fatty acids help relieve dry eye, an increasingly common issue linked to screen time.

• Take screen breaks. Every 20–30 minutes, look away from your device and blink regularly to prevent eye fatigue.

• Use blue light blocking lenses. These filters help prevent eye strain and may also improve sleep by reducing exposure to blue light that suppresses melatonin.

• Wear protective eyewear. Always use eye protection during sports, yard work, or any activity where debris could reach your eyes.

• Schedule comprehensive eye exams. This is the best way to note if any problems have started and establish a baseline for future changes. Regular checkups that include screening for glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic eye disease give you the best chance of early detection and successful treatment.

As both doctors remind patients, eyesight is a precious gift, and one worth protecting every day.

A Gift You Give Yourself…

Upper Eyelid Blepharoplasty with Dr. Katherine Whipple, MD

An upper eyelid blepharoplasty, or eyelid lift, restores a youthful, refreshed look by removing or repositioning excess skin and fat from the upper lids.

“Since the eyes are the focal point of the face, upper eyelid blepharoplasty has the most impact on facial rejuvenation.”

-Dr. Whipple

While not something that gets wrapped and placed under a tree, upper eyelid blepharoplasty can change your life. Using a combination of artistry, precision, and experience, Dr. Katherine Whipple, M.D., board certified ophthalmologist, board certified oculofacial plastic surgeon, and owner at Envision Oculofacial Plastic Surgery and Medical Spa performs upper eyelid blepharoplasty on a daily basis. The surgery has excellent results for both men and women, as well as young and old. Envision what a blepharoplasty could look like on you. Taking care of yourself is the gift we give ourselves.

the ILLUMINATING SEASON

ARTICLE BY KATRINA M. RANDALL

PHOTOGRAPHY SUBMITTED Neighbors Turn Holiday Cheer into Acts of Giving

The holidays mean many things to many people— family gatherings, festive parties, delicious food and drink, and, of course, giving. But “giving back” can take many forms. For some, it’s donating warm clothing or pantry items to those in need. For others, it’s volunteering time, sharing kindness, or finding joy in the simple act of giving. Sometimes, the greatest holiday joy comes from small, luminous moments, like seeing a neighborhood sparkle with twinkling lights.

For Bruce Raggi of Farmington and Rob Flynn of Henrietta, it started with a few simple strings of lights. Over time, those lights became something much more—a gift of color, music, and community that now draws crowds each year to their neighborhoods to partake in the festive cheer and generosity of spirit.

THE RAGGI CHRISTMAS LIGHT SHOW

For Raggi, it all started roughly 16 years ago when his daughter and son-in-law came home for Christmas and bought a plug-and-play four-strand light that synced to music. While Raggi decided to put it up that first year, it wasn’t until the following year that he deep-dove into the world of holiday light technology, purchasing controllers that allowed him to begin building a display that would soon become renowned as the “Raggi Christmas Light Show” on Buckskin Drive, complete with a Facebook following and annual fundraiser.

“I really got into it,” Raggi explains. “I’m an electrician by trade, so I like to do stuff like this.” He soon bought FM machines so people driving by could turn to a radio station and hear the music synced to the lights.

The year after that, the light display grew into his neighbor’s yard, and the fourth year they got antennas so they could bump the signal across and down the street. “Everyone wanted to get into it,” he says. Currently, Raggi says there’s about 26 houses involved. He’s built stars and arches, creating new layouts year after year.

Every year, he rents a lift, and, along with six helpers, they spend the weekend lighting up the yards of everyone who wants to participate. In 2014, when Rochester Officer Daryl Pierce was killed in the line of duty, Raggi and his family decided to start asking for donations to raise money for the family. For several years, they continued to raise money for different causes, finally settling on the John Russo Memorial Foundation for the past few seasons.

Starting on Thanksgiving night, the neighborhood light show begins, running until New Year’s Day. Many nights, they hand out candy canes and take donations. On weekends, their neighbor Scott McLean plays “the best Santa Clause you’ve ever seen,” Raggi says. “When we post it on Facebook, we have cars backed up a mile down the road.”

Raggi’s kids like to joke that he spends more time outside in the winter than in the summer. But for him, the light show has become a beloved family tradition, one that brings joy not only to visitors, but to everyone who helps make it happen. Each season, the family gathers to hand out candy canes. When it’s really cold, they set up a heated tent and cook hot dogs. “I always tell my kids this,” Raggi says. “When I was young, I was a bad boy. Now I try to do good things and make sure I leave here going the right way. I just like giving to people and helping people.”

COLONY LANE CIRCLE OF LIGHTS

Like Raggi, Flynn’s decorating origins began modestly. But a tradition evolved when the neighbors from their culde-sac got involved, turning it into a competition of “crazy light displays.” At that time, “you couldn’t even turn on a hair dryer at night without blowing a fuse,” he says.

One summer, the cul-de-sac gathered for a family picnic and began talking about their growing holiday tradition. That conversation sparked the idea to decorate the entire circle together. Just like that, the Colony Lane Circle of Lights was born. A neighbor volunteered to play Santa, candy canes were handed out, and within a year or two, the display had a loyal following.

Flynn’s wife, Nancy Sullivan Flynn, later suggested they add a charitable element: a food drive for the RushHenrietta Area Food Terminal (RHAFT). What began with just 15 bags of food donations has grown into an effort that now collects up to 200 bags each year, along with

monetary contributions for the local food cupboard. The event has taken on a life of its own, with friends dressing up as Mrs. Claus, Mickey and Minnie, Buzz Lightyear, and Woody. “That draws such a crowd. Kids love it,” says Flynn. “It’s become quite a destination, and a lot of family tradition.” Local Girl Scouts also volunteer, and kids often help out to earn community service hours.

Planning is all year round, Flynn explains. Every year they add something different, with this year’s newest addition being a matrix screen that will go up on the house. Now that technology has advanced and Flynn’s setup is computerized, they don’t need to worry about fuses blowing anymore. Starting on Thanksgiving night, they run the light show through the first or second week in January from 5–10 p.m. every night. On Christmas Eve, they put out close to 200 luminaries around the circle for a special holiday light show.

While it’s a drive-thru, visitors can park and get out to take pictures with Santa and the characters. “The most shocking part is when you realize the kids coming here are now bringing their kids. It’s just joyous seeing the kids and the fun all out there.” It’s also fun for the participating friends and neighbors, who often celebrate together after the light show is over with a shared meal.

A TRADITION OF GIVING AND JOY

Both Flynn and Raggi share a similar sentiment when it comes to their light displays and giving joy to the people who visit year after year. They also share a commitment to giving back, reflected in the donations their displays inspire each holiday season. “When you see the people coming, and the faces are all lit up, and the tradition that we started, we have to keep going,” Flynn says. “It’s about giving to the community and sharing the Christmas spirit.”

Heart of the Community

HOW ROCHESTER BUSINESSES TURN SUCCESS INTO SERVICE

ARTICLE BY SUZIE WELLS | PHOTOGRAPHY SUBMITTED

Across the Greater Rochester region, many businesses are proving that giving back is just as important as doing business. From supporting veterans and uplifting neighbors in need to investing time, talent, and resources in local causes, these companies show that community service isn’t just good practice—it’s part of what makes a community thrive. Their stories remind us that generosity takes many forms: a day of volunteering, a donation, or even a simple act of kindness. When each of us contributes in our own ways, our whole community grows stronger.

GORBEL EMPLOYEES UPLIFT ROCHESTER NEIGHBORS THROUGH SERVICE TO CAMERON STREET MISSION AND DIMITRI HOUSE

For more than two decades, Gorbel (which manufactures overhead material handling cranes, ergonomic lifting devices, and fall protection products) employees have quietly transformed lives across Rochester, one meal, one repair, and one act of kindness at a time.

The effort began in 2001 when Gorbel’s Jim Stockmaster learned about Cameron Street Mission and Dimitri House

through a chance encounter in his karate class. Stockmaster started volunteering to clean, organize, and make repairs, and over the years, this has grown into a company-wide tradition of service.

Each year, Gorbel employees help with spring cleanups, painting projects, and maintenance at both facilities, which serve some of Rochester’s most vulnerable neighbors. Stockmaster’s team recently resurfaced and repainted the kitchen and dining areas at Cameron, where about 200 people receive free meals daily, along with clothing and after-school programs for neighborhood children.

During the holidays, Gorbel employees collect gifts for children and caregivers and assemble Thanksgiving baskets complete with food, baking pans, and table settings.

This summer, Stockmaster and colleagues even organized a bike event and rode 130 miles in 92-degree heat to raise funds for Cameron’s soup kitchen as funding decreases and need rises.

“Gorbel’s mission is to improve people’s lives,” Stockmaster says. “If you want to improve people’s lives, this is a very direct way to do that.” He’s passionate about service at these facilities CONTINUED >

because “there’s no shortage of people in need, and the need has only risen over time.”

For more information, visit cameroncommunity.org or dimitri-house.org

MORREALL & COMPANY HONORS VETERANS WITH ‘VOTE A VET’ PROGRAM

In Irondequoit, Morreall & Company Roofing is using its success to lift others up, especially those who have served our country. Owner Nick Morreall, a lifelong Irondequoit resident, created the company’s new “Vote a Vet” program to help local veterans in need of home improvements.

The idea grew from Morreall’s belief that veterans don’t always receive the support they need and deserve once they return home. “You shouldn’t go fight for our country and come home and not be able to support yourself,” he says. Through the program, community members nominate active or former service members who need help repairing or upgrading their homes. The company then provides free home improvements, focusing on veterans who might not otherwise be able to afford the work.

One of the first projects benefited an active-duty veteran in Fairport, whose family received needed trim and gutter replacements as well as a few miscellaneous repairs. The family was deeply moved by the genuine assistance, and Morreall says the veteran even wrote from Afghanistan to express his thanks, saying the repairs meant he could return home knowing his family’s needs were met.

For Morreall, giving back in his hometown feels like life coming full circle. If he can help, he wants to help. Beyond roofing, the company regularly supports local events, sponsoring Little League teams, handing out candy at farmers markets, and simply sharing goodwill within the community.

What began as a way to raise awareness has become a heartfelt mission. Morreall hopes to continue Vote a Vet every year, a way to show gratitude, spread kindness, and remind others that “beautiful things happen every day.”

CANANDAIGUA NATIONAL BANK’S COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS PROGRAM STRENGTHENS BONDS THROUGH EMPLOYEE-LED GIVING

At Canandaigua National Bank (CNB), philanthropy is part of the institution’s DNA, according to President and CEO Frank Hamlin III. For 140 years, he says the bank has built its reputation on community connections and listening to and supporting the community they serve. CNB’s spirit of giving has deepened beyond sponsorships and donations.

Five years ago, CNB sharpened its philanthropic focus with an employee-led approach, designating $100,000 annually

to a group of employees who decide where to donate the funds locally. Today, CNB donates about $1.5 million annually, supporting 500–600 organizations across the region, many employee-led connections, as the bank believes the staff who live and work locally know best where help is needed.

Ginny Ryan, director of community engagement, notes that CNB leadership wanted to go beyond writing checks by helping employees participate with the organizations they support. This led to the Pillars of Giving program, awarding larger grants and including hands-on volunteer opportunities for the CNB team, including at Homesteads for Hope, Habitat for Humanity, and local food pantries, helping CNB deepen meaningful relationships within their communities. Holiday initiatives like 12 Days of Giving further strengthen those ties, and Ryan and Hamlin are excited for the annual event bringing people together.

For CNB, community banking means more than financial transactions. It means supporting the people and organizations that make the region thrive. As Hamlin says, “Supporting our people to support the community—that’s what it’s all about.”

FLEETWOOD ACCESSIBILITY SERVICES HONORS AND SUPPORTS VETERANS WITH DIGNITY

At Fleetwood Accessibility Services of Rochester, helping people live safely and independently at home is more than a mission. It’s a promise rooted in compassion, respect, and community service. Led by President Dr. Pia K. Nault, the company specializes in creating accessible environments that allow individuals to “stay at home, age gracefully, and die with dignity surrounded by their loved ones.”

Installing, servicing, and repairing ramps, lifts, lift chairs, home elevators, ceiling track systems, bathroom accessibility options, and an array of other accommodations, Fleetwood offers individuals and families safety and peace of mind within their own homes.

That mission takes on special meaning when it comes to veterans. Fleetwood works closely with organizations such as Semper Fi & America’s Fund to make homes accessible for veterans in need and does so without requiring them to pay out of pocket. The company actively partners with social workers and agencies to assess needs, educate families, and increase awareness of resources available for those living with physical limitations.

From custom design and ADA-compliant construction to certified installations and caregiver training, Fleetwood Accessibility Services brings together doctors, engineers, contractors, and business professionals who share a single goal: to restore independence and improve quality of life.

As Dr. Nault puts it, “We give hope to people.” And for Rochester-area veterans, that hope often arrives in the form of a safer home and a renewed sense of dignity.

Betty turned a magazine into community.

City Lifestyle isn’t just a publication — it’s a pulse. A rhythm of voices, neighbors, and stories woven together by someone who believes in the power of connection. As we expand, we’re looking for people ready to turn care into community. Are you ready to be that spark?

ROC City Lifestyle

Published

by Betty Loved by Rochester

Fall’s Quiet Opulence.

A celebration of sumptuous knits, sculpted boots, and timeless layers that turn every stroll into a runway moment.

Welcome to Chantiza — where European elegance meets personalized service. Our hand-selected collection features distinctive, high-quality pieces from sought-after designers across Europe, chosen with an eye for timeless sophistication and modern flair.

Experience shopping reimagined with personal stylist, Chantiza, who brings warmth, expertise, and a tailor-made approach to every visit. Whether you’re building a wardrobe or finding that one unforgettable look, your style journey begins here — beautifully curated, just for you.

Singh, styling Rochester since 2018

Finding Healing Through Movement

GRACIOUS DANCE INSPIRES A CYCLE OF GIVING AND HOPE

As a teenager, Rebecca Phelps found healing in a dance studio. Now 28, the Rochester native helps fellow trauma survivors find hope, healing, and community through the art of movement. Her organization, Gracious Dance, launched in 2019 and specializes in therapeutic dance and movement programs for survivors of interpersonal violence.

“Dance was my safe space growing up,” says Phelps, who studied for years at Anastasia’s Spotlight Dance (now Elevation Dance) in Churchville. After surviving sexual assault in her teens, dance became even more vital. “The very generous studio owner gave me a key and let me use the studio late at night.”

Those nights moving to music empowered her to move forward. Phelps went on to study psychology and dance at SUNY Brockport, graduating in 2019. When domestic violence disrupted her early adulthood, she again sought refuge in the studio—this time with a focus on helping others.

“I felt so alone at that time. Surviving an abusive relationship or sexual violence can feel really isolating,” she says. “I couldn’t find a community of others who understood, so I decided to create one using dance as a catalyst.”

What began as an informal monthly dance class evolved into a multi-generational community focused on trauma recovery through joyful movement and peer support. Phelps earned a trauma-informed yoga certification in 2021, and soon after launched Gracious Dance’s first official Empowerment Program for survivors of sexual and domestic violence. In Empowerment sessions, she leads participants through dance, yoga, and mindfulness exercises using a trauma-informed lens.

ARTICLE BY SARAH KEELER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERICH CAMPING & SUBMITTED

An equivalent program for younger participants, Kidpowerment, launched last January. These free, bi-monthly programs are open to everyone—no dance experience, or even interest in dance, required.

“People can participate as much or as little as they want,” explains Phelps, who estimates that as many as 80 participants have joined the Empowerment Program over the past five years. “If they’re nervous about movement, that’s totally okay. We can talk through it.”

In addition to Empowerment and Kid-powerment, Gracious Dance offers about seven recreational dance classes for kids and adults each week. The studio’s ‘give what you can, take what you need’ approach encourages students to donate personal care items or snacks, which are then shared with students or families in need.

“Comfort items and simple snacks can make a big difference for someone coming out of a traumatic situation,” Phelps says.

Fostering a spirit of giving is central to the Gracious Dance mission. The organization hosts regular drives to collect hygiene products and nonperishable food for Rochester-area nonprofits such as Angels of Mercy, which supports survivors of human trafficking, and Willow, a domestic violence center. Rather than traditional recitals, Gracious Dance produces an annual Show of Hope, a benefit performance held each April.

“The Show of Hope helps us keep our Empowerment programs completely free,” Phelps explains. Gracious Dance students perform alongside volunteers from other regional studios. Phelps

hopes that performing in a benefit show helps even her youngest dancers understand the power of using their talents to make a positive impact.

The performances also provide a safe, supportive environment for Empowerment participants to take the stage—if they choose to. For dancers like Rachael, a student at Gracious Dance, the experience has been life-changing. She credits dancing at Gracious Dance, along with hard work in therapy, as having the biggest impact on her recovery.

“When I came to Empowerment a year ago [. . .] the traumas I’d experienced left me depressed, isolated, and suicidal,” says Rachael. “Through Empowerment, I’ve been able to rediscover myself, awareness in my body, and a love for life. I have found a community where I am heard, supported, and loved. I have found a reason to keep going; something to look forward to. I have found a family.”

“It’s been impactful for me as well,” adds Phelps, who is currently working toward completing a master’s degree in clinical mental health at Geneva College. “All I wanted to do was help someone else. Seeing [Rachael’s] transformation makes all the hard work worth it.”

Beginning Dec. 1, all Gracious Dance programming will be held at Frequency Wellness on University Avenue. Empowerment programs meet the first and third Sundays of each month, and new participants are always welcome.

To learn more or get involved, visit GraciousDance.com

DIVERSE December: Celebrating Light, HOPE, AND Community

While Christmas may dominate December’s landscape, it’s far from the only holiday bringing light to the year’s darkest month. Across the region, residents honor traditions that span the globe, from Yule and Yalda to Hanukkah and Kwanzaa. Each celebration reflects its own story of hope, renewal, and togetherness.

YALDA

Yalda is a Persian festival that celebrates the longest night of the year: the Winter Solstice.

“The holiday is centered around the longest night so it is about reflection and time with friends and family. The food is mostly just typical Iranian food that you would have if people come over—nuts, fruit, little Persian cookies (there are some with raisins or some made from ground chickpeas),” says Anna Ball of Irondequoit. “We still have a little gathering on the night with special treats. It’s not a big exciting holiday like Christmas but it is nice to acknowledge the passing of time. The longest night has always felt special for our family.”

CONTINUED >

Exploring the Many Ways Communities Bring Light to Winter’s Darkest Days

ARTICLE BY KATRINA M. RANDALL PHOTOGRAPHY SUBMITTED

Ball adds that the holiday “is about darkness, as we talk about it as the longest night, but with that comes the excitement and optimism of each day having more and more light after the solstice.” She says, “It is meant to be a generous time where you share your time, space, and goodies with loved ones.”

YULE

Derived from Norse and Germanic pagan traditions, Yule celebrates the return of the sun after the Winter Solstice.

“The pre-Christian origins of Yule are unclear but is most certainly the source of many of today's Christmas traditions, such as feasting, evergreens, wreaths, and the Yule log,” says Erin Ashley of Rochester.

“So many Yule traditions are the same or similar to Christmas traditions that it honestly wasn't too hard of a transition for me to make. I still decorate my home with evergreens, candles, and other seasonal items like pine cones, holly, and mistletoe. Gathering for a meal of seasonal foods and drinks is probably my favorite tradition and still holds that nostalgia from childhood.”

Erin’s family bundles up each winter solstice and gathers around a backyard fire. “I like to do a manifestation ritual by taking a piece of paper and writing what I'm grateful for on one side, and writing what I'd like to manifest on the other. At midnight, we throw the paper into the fire.”

“Instead of giving and getting multiple presents that are more about quantity, our Yule gifts are few, smaller, but more meaningful. Spending quality time together and enjoying each others' company is a huge part of Yule.”

HANUKKAH

Hanukkah is an eight-day Jewish festival celebrating light, resilience, and faith after a successful revolt against oppression more than 2,000 years ago.

“Here in the U.S. it’s become a major holiday, and the marketing and the shopping is more similar to Christmas. I can say I adopted that in my house. If you ever arrived at my house you would see a shrine to Hanukkah,” says Dalit Spindel of Rochester.

“We definitely have a big celebration and light the candles every night and invite people over to light the candles with us and have dinner.”

Each night, Spindel and her family bless a candle and sing songs. “We believe after we bless them and light them, the light spreads miracles and blessings to all. Usually you put the candlelight near the windows so you can share and spread your light with others.”

“The most special part for us as a family is to invite people to celebrate with us. Seeing the table filled with more than 10 menorahs, you have so many candles, the light is

very spiritual, very warm. It makes you feel hopeful that it is time for miracles.”

CELEBRATING HANUKKAH AND CHRISTMAS IN HARMONY

Jeanette Chambers of Webster grew up Christian but converted to Judaism. “My parents were very patient in wanting to learn this religion and culture. They embraced it all, and we had menorahs at Christmas for Hanukkah when the holidays were close together. My kids still got gifts from Santa,” she says. “My two children opened their gifts from my side of the family at Christmas and opened Hanukkah gifts from their dad's side when they were near them.”

“One tradition my kids really did enjoy during Hanukkah is that there was one day out of the eight that they were asked to give a gift to someone in need.” But her favorite part was the “braiding glow of the candles.”

“There are a few songs to be sung. Like any holiday there are cookies to be made, and we have cookie cutters in the shape of a dreidel, menorah, and a star of David.”

KWANZAA

Kwanzaa is an annual, seven-day celebration of AfricanAmerican heritage, community, and values, held from Dec. 26 to Jan. 1.

“I feel like it honors humanity and harvest,” says Allauna Overstreet-Gibson of Geneva, who decided to start celebrating Kwanzaa several years ago when she became a mom. Each of the seven days of Kwanzaa centers on a guiding principle known as the Nguzo Saba : unity (umoja), self-determination ( kujichagulia), collective work and responsibility (ujima), cooperative economics (ujamaa), purpose (nia), creativity ( kuumba), and faith (imani ).

“Each principle of Kwanzaa has meaning behind it and is rooted in preservation of your culture and making sure you’re feeding into your community so that it lasts. You can pass these things on for generations and generations to come. It’s building community and sustaining community,” she says.

“For the past two years we had a big family celebration,” she says. “We light each of the candles. We have the youngest light the candle with the assistance of an adult.”

Depending on which day it is, participants reflect on how they can embody that day’s principle in their lives, whether it’s through uniting family, supporting Black-owned businesses, or using creativity to uplift the community.

“I believe the point of it all is to not be selfish. Once you have enough, remember to give and feed that into your community. Give back. I want my kids to be that caring, to be self-aware in that way.”

realty report

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

DECEMBER 2ND

Pittsford Candlelight Night

North & South Main Streets, Village of Pittsford | 5:00 PM

The historic village glows with candlelight as local shops open their doors for music, treats, and family activities. A cherished small-town celebration featuring carolers, Santa visits, and the lighting of the village tree.

DECEMBER 5TH

Genesee Keg Tree Lighting

Genesee Brew House, 25 Cataract St., Rochester | 5:00 PM

The iconic keg-based tree towers glowing in lights above the brewery, joined by music, food vendors, and community fun. A locally beloved kickoff to the holiday season.

DECEMBER 6TH

Liberty Pole Lighting & ROC Holiday Village Kickoff

Liberty Pole Plaza MLK Park, Downtown Rochester | 5:00 PM

Rochester’s holiday season officially begins with the lighting of the Liberty Pole, then moves into ROC Holiday Village festivities, including ice skating, Santa’s workshop, and vendor stalls.

DECEMBER 6TH

Victor Jingle Mingle

Village of Victor | 2:00 PM

Sip, shop, and sample as the village comes alive with holiday shopping, wagon rides, live music, and visits with Santa. A festive blend of small-town charm and seasonal cheer perfect for families.

DECEMBER 7TH

Tableside Hanukkah Service & Dinner

Temple Sinai - 363 Penfield Road

Celebrate the start of Hanukkah with candle lighting, a festive dinner of latkes, sides, and dessert, along with singing and dreidel play in a warm congregational setting. Cost: $20 for adults (13+); $14 for children 4–12; under 4 free

DECEMBER 7TH, 14TH, 18TH

Holidays at the Market

Rochester Public Market, 280 N. Union St. | 8:00 AM

The city market transforms into a holiday bazaar filled with artisan goods, seasonal treats, horse-drawn carriage rides, and Santa visits—a favorite local tradition for gift browsing and festive fun. Dec. 7 and 14 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., and on a special Thursday evening on Dec. 18, from 6 to 9 p.m.

Winter’s Glow

December 1–31

Creators of Fine Jewelry