In the vibrant city of Rochester, New York, there is a community-driven movement making waves and warming hearts—We Are Rochester. This inspiring initiative symbolizes Rochester's dedication to fostering unity and support among its
residents. It emphasizes the unique qualities that make this city a wonderful place to live, showcasing the diverse and resilient spirit that defines Rochester.
We Are Rochester captures the very essence of community collaboration, highlighting stories of local residents and small businesses who contribute tirelessly to the city's growth and well-being. It fosters a sense of shared purpose and belonging, whether through uplifting
Community Spirit
Hello Rochester, New York • Winter Issue |5
local artist showcases, engaging community projects, or spotlighting the passionate individuals passionately working to make Rochester a better place.
The initiative also plays a vital role in promoting Rochester's rich cultural tapestry. From its world-class museums and galleries to its bustling food scene and innovative tech industry, We Are Rochester celebrates the energy that surges through this city. More than just a
campaign, it’s a heartfelt reminder of the city’s solidarity, resilience, and commitment to progress.
In Rochester, New York, We Are Rochester is more than a slogan—it's a testament to a thriving community, always ready to uplift each other and shine brightly
Community Spirit
Community Spirit: We Are Rochester's Heartfelt Impact
In the vibrant city of Rochester, New York, there is a community-driven movement making waves and warming hearts—We Are Rochester. This inspiring initiative symbolizes Rochester's dedication to fostering unity and support among its residents. It emphasizes the unique qualities that make this city a wonderful place to live, showcasing the diverse and resilient spirit that defines Rochester.
We Are Rochester captures the very essence of community collaboration, highlighting stories of local residents and small businesses who contribute tirelessly to the city's growth and well-being. It fosters a sense of shared purpose and belonging, whether through uplifting local artist showcases, engaging community projects, or spotlighting the passionate individuals passionately working to make Rochester a better place.
The initiative also plays a vital role in promoting Rochester's rich cultural tapestry. From its world-class museums and galleries to its bustling food scene and innovative tech industry, We Are Rochester celebrates the energy that surges through this city. More than just a campaign, it’s a heartfelt reminder of the city’s solidarity, resilience, and commitment to progress.
In Rochester, New York, We Are Rochester is more than a slogan—it's a testament to a thriving community, always ready to uplift each other and shine brightly together.
FEATURED STORY
HelloNation at the USCM Meeting, and Why the Partnership Matters
by Nicole Rongo
The United States Conference of Mayors (USCM) convenes each year in Washington, D.C., bringing together mayors from across the country to discuss pressing urban challenges and national policy priorities. The Winter Meeting, scheduled this year for January 28 to January 30, 2026, is one of the organization’s key gatherings where civic leaders engage with federal decision makers, exchange best practices, and shape agendas that affect communities across the nation.The USCM was established during the Great Depression as a forum for mayors to confront shared difficulties,
6 | HelloRochester, New York • Winter Issue
Nicole Rongo
ABOUT THE AUTHOR Nicole Rongo is Vice President of Government Relations & Strategic Partnerships at CGI Digital, Inc. Over her 20 year tenure, she has built hundreds of partnerships with municipal and county governments, chambers of commerce, and member-driven organizations nationwide, and serves as the primary point of contact for CGI Digital’s national partnerships with the U.S. Conference of Mayors, the National League of Cities, and the National Association of Counties, advancing trusted, mission-driven ...
advocate for municipal needs, and collaborate on effective solutions. Today it remains the leading nonpartisan voice for U.S. cities in the nation’s capital. Its foundational purpose is to promote strong federal-city relationships, develop forward-looking urban and suburban policy, and provide mayors with tools and connections to lead effectively at home.At its core, the Winter Meeting is designed to foster direct engagement between mayors and top-level officials from the White House, the current administration, and Congress. Participants use the conference agenda to highlight local priorities, address emerging
Hello Rochester, New York • Winter Issue |7
HelloNation at the USCM Meeting, and Why the Partnership Matters
The United States Conference of Mayors (USCM) convenes each year in Washington, D.C., bringing together mayors from across the country to discuss pressing urban challenges and national policy priorities. The Winter Meeting, scheduled this year for January 28 to January 30, 2026, is one of the organization’s key gatherings where civic leaders engage with federal decision makers, exchange best practices, and shape agendas that affect communities across the nation. The USCM was established during the Great Depression as a forum for mayors to confront shared difficulties, advocate for municipal needs, and collaborate on effective solutions. Today it remains the leading nonpartisan voice for U.S. cities in the nation’s capital. Its foundational purpose is to promote strong federal-city relationships, develop forward-looking urban and suburban policy, and provide mayors with tools and connections to lead effectively at home. At its core, the Winter Meeting is designed to foster direct engagement between mayors and top-level officials from the White House, the current administration, and Congress. Participants use the conference agenda to highlight local priorities, address emerging national issues, and work toward shared goals that can improve infrastructure, public safety, housing, and economic opportunity. The annual convening also provides a platform for mayors to share best practices with one another. In formal sessions and informal conversations, leaders from diverse regions and city sizes exchange insights on innovation, crisis response, and community building. This cross-city dialogue often leads to collaborative initiatives that extend far beyond the conference halls. HelloNation’s engagement with the United States Conference of Mayors is a continuation of the two decade tenure that began with CGI Digital. Our organization has supported the USCM mission by amplifying the voices of city leaders through cutting-edge video programs and continues now with reporting on the practical impact of policy discussions and resolutions that matter to their citizens. The partnership has always been rooted in a shared commitment to telling the stories of municipal leadership and the ways cities adapt to change and pursue sustainable growth. Through editorial coverage, interviews, and multimedia storytelling, HelloNation broadens public understanding of the complex issues that mayors address daily. Renowned actor, Christopher McDonald, HelloNation’s national spokesperson, will be present at this year’s Winter Meeting, representing our continued interest in municipal affairs and our partnership with the USCM. McDonald’s presence underscores the importance HelloNation places on engaging directly with the leaders shaping local government responses to economic, social, and environmental challenges. This year’s conference agenda includes discussions on urban innovation, federal policy engagement, and strategic partnerships that can help cities thrive. While the Winter Meeting’s principal focus remains advocacy and policy exchange, it also offers valuable networking opportunities for mayors and stakeholders from the public and private sectors. These connections often lead to new collaborations that benefit cities and their residents. HelloNation, CGI Digital in partnership with USCM and America 250 will be filming Mayors at the event for what the 250th anniversary means to them and their cities. For HelloNation, attending the USCM Winter Meeting is an opportunity to witness and document how mayors articulate their communities’ priorities at the national level and to share those insights with our audience. With mayors from across the country convening to set policy directions and exchange ideas, the conference is a vital forum for understanding how local leadership influences broader national conversations.
The Winter Meetingis one ofthe organization’s keygatherings
national issues, and work toward shared goals that can improve infrastructure, public safety, housing, and economic opportunity.The annual convening also provides a platform for mayors to share best practices with one another. In formal sessions and informal conversations, leaders from diverse regions and city sizes exchange insights on innovation, crisis response, and community building. This cross-city dialogue often leads to collaborative initiatives that extend far...
Cleaning & Maintenance of Granite Memorials
Granite memorials are valued for their strength and longevity, but even the most durable stone requires occasional care. Over time, natural elements such as lichen, moss, and airborne pollutants can settle on the surface, obscuring inscriptions and diminishing the stone’s original beauty. Regular
cleaning and maintenance help preserve the appearance and legibility of a memorial for generations.Granite’s nonporous surface resists many forms of damage, but that doesn’t mean it is maintenance-free. Organic growth, mineral deposits, and general environmental exposure can build up slowly, often
8 | HelloRochester, New York • Winter Issue
Cleaning & Maintenance of Granite Memorials
Granite memorials are valued for their strength and longevity, but even the most durable stone requires occasional care. Over time, natural elements such as lichen, moss, and airborne pollutants can settle on the surface, obscuring inscriptions and diminishing the stone’s original beauty. Regular cleaning and maintenance help preserve the appearance and legibility of a memorial for generations.
Granite’s nonporous surface resists many forms of damage, but that doesn’t mean it is maintenance-free. Organic growth, mineral deposits, and general environmental exposure can build up slowly, often going unnoticed until the surface looks dulled or the engraving becomes harder to read. When that happens, it is important to clean the stone properly to avoid causing harm.
For older memorials or those with significant staining or lichen growth, professional cleaning is often the best solution. Specialists understand how to treat the stone without weakening its structure or damaging fine engraving. A careful cleaning regimen preserves engraving detail and extends the life of inscriptions, ensuring the names and messages carved into granite remain clear and meaningful long after they are placed.
Ongoing maintenance may also include inspecting the stone for chips, settling, or other minor issues that can worsen over time. Families can choose to clean memorials seasonally or on meaningful anniversaries, turning routine care into an act of remembrance.
Taking the time to maintain a granite memorial is not just about aesthetics. It is about honoring the person it represents. By keeping the monument clear and well-preserved, families ensure that future generations will be able to read, reflect, and remember without the barrier of time or neglect.
Robert Leonard
going unnoticed until the surface looks dulled or the engraving becomes harder to read. When that happens, it is important to clean the stone properly to avoid causing harm.For older memorials or those with significant staining or lichen growth, professional cleaning is often the best solution. Specialists understand
how to treat the stone without weakening its structure or damaging fine engraving. A careful cleaning regimen preserves engraving detail and extends the life of inscriptions, ensuring the names and messages carved into granite remain clear and meaningful long after they are placed.Ongoing maintenance may also include inspecting the stone for chips, settling, or other minor issues that can worsen over time. Families can choose to clean memorials seasonally or on meaningful anniversaries, turning routine care into an act of remembrance.Taking the time to maintain a granite memorial is not just about aesthetics. It is about...
A careful cleaning regimen preserves engraving detail and extends the life of inscriptions,
About the Author
Robert Leonard is the owner of McGee Monuments, a well-established business in Rochester, NY that has been providing quality-crafted granite monuments since 1900. With a reputation for skilled work and dignified service, they offer a wide selection of monuments, from flat markers to benches, and specialize in expert lettering services on existing memorials.
