(Pictured above: the 1847 William Higbie Homestead and my home). By Mindy MacLaren As the daughter of a visionary leader in the revitalization of some Rochester's oldest industrial buildings, the idea of them as important pieces of the landscape, history, and future of a place was instilled in me from a young age. In my … Continue reading My Experience as an Historic Preservationist
At each legislative session of Penfield's town board, residents are given two opportunities for public participation: once at the beginning of the meeting and once at the end. So when offered the chance to let the board know their concerns regarding the potential development of 86 Ryan Homes at the corner of Five Mile Line … Continue reading Drainage Issues at New Development
You may recall a blog I wrote this past July regarding Penfield's 2020 Comprehensive Plan, and the Supervisor's request to residents, encouraging them to apply for the volunteer advisory committee. The deadline to do so was Sept. 6, 2017. A member of the Penfield Democratic Committee tried to apply, but was met with a lack … Continue reading Participating in Penfield: a Challenge
By Mindy MacLaren Election Day was held two days ago. For me, this is always an exciting day, full of pride in exercising my right to vote and anticipation while awaiting the results. This year was especially meaningful being that it marks the 100th year since women earned the right to vote in New York … Continue reading Look in the Mirror
Those hundreds of Penfield residents who supported saving the property known as Shadow Pines Golf Course should congratulate themselves for making their wishes for its future known and their voices heard. At last night's Town Board meeting, Supervisor Tony LaFountain announced that the Town has signed a letter of intention to purchase from Dolomite this … Continue reading Something to Feel Good About
By TNPO and Erich Van Dussen Members of the Penfield Democratic Committee were recently troubled to discover that access to at least four Democratic websites- representing the people of Penfield, Perinton, Pittsford, and Webster- had been blocked on the Wi-Fi network of the Penfield Library and Community Center. The towns’ Republican sites remained accessible. The cause … Continue reading Blocked Dem Sites Cause Concern
While at the Penfield Community Center for the August meeting of the Penfield Democratic Committee, two leaflets in particular on the bulletin board near the entrance caught my attention. I thought I'd pass these along... The first is an opportunity to help the elders in our town by offering to drive them to the places … Continue reading 2 Opportunities to Help the Community!
Inspectors are needed for the upcoming Primary and General elections. Tuesday, September 12 is the Primary election, with polls open from noon to 9pm. Tuesday, November 7 is the General, with polls open from 6am-9pm. Having worked as an election inspector for the General in 2013, I can tell you it is a long, but … Continue reading Election Inspectors Needed!
One year ago today, an article of tribute I wrote to Irene Gossin was published in the local "Post" newspapers. As the second Democrat supervisor in Penfield when she was elected in 1971 (although I have not been able to find anyone who can name the first), we have Irene (and her administration) to thank … Continue reading Thanks to Irene L. Gossin!
The New Penfield Optimist 