⭐STAFF SPOTLIGHT: Karen Mazzola started her schooling in West Irondequoit in the early 1970s at what was then Pinegrove Elementary School. In about eight weeks, she’ll end her career as the Director of Helmer Nature Center – about a stone’s throw from that same school building where it all began for her. “Witnessing the growth of such a special and unique outdoor classroom and community resource right in my hometown AND being a part of it all has been my greatest honor!” she says. No, Mrs. Mazzola, we have been honored to have your leadership and care for those 45 acres of land, the animals at HNC, all of the programming/learning you helped develop for students and the events that have become so woven into the fabric of our community. Thank you and best of luck in your retirement, which after 24 years at HNC is so very well-deserved!
💙POSITION: Helmer Nature Center Director (17 years); prior to that, she was HNC’s Events Coordinator for seven years. Prior to HNC, she was a real estate appraiser for 20 years.
📍HOMETOWN/FAMILY: She is a lifelong Irondequoit resident and 1980 graduate of Irondequoit HS. Mrs. Mazzola and husband, Marc, have been married 38 years and their daughter, Casey, is a 2009 IHS grad: Karen’s mother, Darlene Morgan, formerly worked for 20 years in Accounts Payable for the WICSD.
❓WHAT’S YOUR WHY? “Every day is different and meaningful in its own way from supporting the environmental education of our students and community programs to caring for our animal ambassadors and working on any number of conservation projects. My greatest ‘why’ has to be all the wonderful people I have had the privilege to know and work with over the years - passionate educators, amazing students, dedicated volunteers, supportive members and community collaborators.”
➡READ MORE ABOUT HER: bit.ly/WI_Spotlight
Market Grill, Stir, I-Scream are available to lease. Fully-equipped, turn-key opportunity-join the success w/ Hong Kong One, Fishface, Pura Vida. The equipment is there, the customers are already coming through the doors. This can be your vision into reality.
Irondequoit's I-Square seeks new operator for turn-key restaurant space. We have the equipment, you bring your vision. Burgers, Fries, Ice Cream and more! Call Mike Nolan (585)943-1941 mnolan@i-square.us
A beloved Rochester establishment has been named one of the best in the country. Here's what you need to know before you go. democratandchronicle.com/story/lifestyl…
Exciting opportunity! This fully equipped turnkey Market Grill & I-Scream are now available-start operating right away-bring your vision to life. Dreaming of owning a restaurant or expanding? This could be your chance. Contact mnolan@i-square.us #RochesterNY
A beloved Rochester establishment has been named one of the best in the country. Here's what you need to know before you go. democratandchronicle.com/story/lifestyl…
Swan Market in Rochester has made The USA TODAY Restaurants of the Year 2026 list, which features 39 restaurants from fine-dining establishments to roadside burger shacks.
Haven't been to Swan Market yet? Take a look at what you're missing.
Read more in the D&C.
Here's some of the reports we've received from Sunday into early today. North of 104 in Wayne county has had up to 18" with the help of lake effect. #roc#Weather
Some are heading back to school so we need morning shifts- starting at 11:00am. Stop by & pick up an application or call Sara (585)266-1111x2 #Irondequoit
Today we have some excellent live music outside on the @ISquareUS all afternoon and evening, as well as a sale on all of our folk and bluegrass instruments! Today only! If you've been wanting to learn mandolin in the summer sun there's never been a better time than NOW! 😎
FREE LIVE MUSIC! Today on the @ISquareUS stage we have 3 great local bands here to share some tunes on this beautiful sunny day! Davey Allen, Shop Cats, and Rhythm & Groove are all ready for ya!! We're having TOO MUCH FUN this summer at The Great Great House of Guitars!!