When Kathy Kepler was offered a job forty years ago to help sell sweet corn from a roadside farmstand, she took the job because she thought the guy managing it, Steve, was cute. She has good instincts: She’s now been both his business partner and his wife for decades. Steve had long been helping his older brother, Frank, with his…
2.05.2026
For decades, Julietta Fiscella built her career as a pathologist at the University of Rochester Medical Center, guided by scientific precision and a lifelong fascination with the human body. Born and raised in St. Lucia, an island nation in the Caribbean, her youth was shaped by village customs, time-honored remedies, and a deep respect for holistic care—experiences that quietly stayed…
2.05.2026
Photo by Michael Hanlon Founded in 1969, the Visual Studies Workshop (VSW) is one of the longest-running nonprofit media art spaces in the country. It began with a vision for a graduate program for artists, historians, and curators that would help build the field of photography. To support this vision, VSW developed its core programs of exhibitions, publications, and residencies,…
2.05.2026
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She’s a peach

How did the partnership with Seagram’s start? I was a part of the Real Housewives of Atlanta for eleven years as a peach holder. So, when Seagram’s approached my team about a great opportunity to do a flavor together, of course we played off the Housewives and made my signature fruit the peach and came …

Future Past

Once again CMAC brought a legend to the Greater Rochester area. On September 3 the one and only Duran Duran brought their all to the stage in Canandaigua. The evening started with the opening act, Niles Rodgers and Chic. Many people know their fabulous 1978 disco hit “Le Freak,” but did you know that Rodgers …

Tavo’s Antojitos y Tequila carries the torch for authentic Mexican cuisine

As I stepped into Tavo’s Antojitos y Tequila in the North Winton Village neighborhood, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of anticipation.  Many call it a carbon copy of the celebrated El Rincón Mexicano, a restaurant in Sodus known for its authentic regional dishes. That place closed last November after its owner, María Peña …

Concert core

My first experience with occasion-specific concert wear was Taylor Swift’s Reputation tour. Swift gushed about how amazed she was by everyone’s dedication to dressing the part. She even noted how one member was dressed as “line three of track eight on album four.” Of course, since this line from her album Red says “We hadn’t …

How to make a meaningful impact in our community

Years ago, I wrote an article titled “Charity is easy . . . especially when wine is involved” for a Rochester publication. I stand by this message, as I like to incorporate giving back into everyday life as a way of making it more practical. People think giving back requires a grand gesture, all of …

Introducing Essex

Picture eggplant-colored theater drapery against metal accents and inviting iron tones. It’s slightly regal but more playful. Then add in top-notch hospitality from some of the best in the business and a killer sound system—welcome to Essex, Rochester’s newest indoor music venue, opening October 6. Dave Drago (owner of 1809 Studios), and Zack Mikida and …

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