(ROCHESTER, NY) - Today Senator Jeremy Cooney (D-Rochester) hosted his annual Year-End Community Awards Ceremony honoring local leaders and businesses who have made contributions to Greater Rochester. This included New York State Commendations for individuals who have made a lasting impact in Rochester, Empire Awards to recognize excellence in business, and Senator Cooney’s nomination to the New York State Historic Business Preservation Registry.

“There are so many Greater Rochester residents making a difference in our community, but far too often their work flies under the radar,” said Senator Cooney. “This ceremony is about giving these neighbors the recognition they deserve and thanking them for their contributions towards building a stronger, better Rochester for all.”

Also included as an honoree was Master Sergeant Bing Reaves, Senator Cooney’s inductee this year for the New York State Veterans Hall of Fame. Master Sergeant Reaves is known for his lifelong commitment to service, as a veteran, law enforcement professional, and community leader and advocate. He was drafted in 1971 into the United States Army where he was subsequently deployed to the Republic of Korea. After his time in the Army, Master Sergeant Reaves joined the Rochester Police Department where he served for 32 years, working his way up to the rank of Sergeant. While serving with RPD, Master Sergeant Reaves joined the U.S. Army Reserve, where he spent over 30 years. His service earned him several accolades, including the Meritorious Service Medal and the Army Commendation Medal with four oak leaf clusters. Since his retirement, he has continued to remain active in local veterans organizations, participates in Buffalo Soldier reenactments, and by working to organize the Rochester Memorial Day Parade. 

“We can never truly thank our nation’s heroes enough for their sacrifices, but one of my greatest honors is getting to induct one of these heroes into the New York State Veterans Hall of Fame each year. Master Sergeant Reaves exemplifies what selflessness and sacrifice look like, both from his work in the Army and his time with RPD aimed at keeping our community safe. He is highly deserving of this honor, and we are very fortunate to have his leadership here in Rochester,” Senator Cooney continued. 

A full list of awardees can be found below:

NYS Historic Business Preservation Registry

• Zweigle’s - With deep roots in our community dating back to 1880, this fifth-generation, family-owned business is beloved throughout the region and beyond. Known for their “White Hots” and “Pop Open” hotdogs, Zweigle’s also sponsors community events and is a key driver of the local economy. 

NYS Senate Proclamations

• B.L.O.O.M. Roc - With a focus on equity and entrepreneurship in the cannabis industry, B.L.O.O.M. Roc (Blossoming Leaders Of Our Market) was founded with a mission to ensure communities historically impacted by the failed War on Drugs are given the resources and support they need to thrive. B.L.O.O.M. Roc hosts workshops, networking events, advocates for inclusive policies, and connects Rochesterians to industry experts and financial partners to make sure our local market is in alignment with New York’s mission for a justice-centered cannabis marketplace. 

• Rochester Oratorio Society - Celebrating their 80th Anniversary Season this year, the Rochester Oratorio Society has served as the region’s leading symphonic chorus, presenting choral masterworks, commissioning new compositions, touring internationally, and welcoming distinguished guest artists, visiting choirs, and emerging professional musicians to our region. The group continues to promote arts and culture throughout the community, hosting education programs, facilitating youth and school outreach, and collaborating with local arts institutions. 

• Willie McGlory - A veteran of the US Marine Corps, Willie McGlory lived without a driver’s license since 1986 due to an issue he was having with the DMV. Willie met Senator Cooney’s team at a mobile office hours session who helped pave the way for him to be able to take the test for his learner’s permit. Willie immediately used this accomplishment for the betterment of others, devoting his time, resources, and vehicle to transport neighbors to the grocery store and to medical appointments. 

NYS Commendations

• Ms. Barbara Blaisdell - Barbara is a longtime educator, historical interpreter, and one of Rochester’s most recognized portrayers of Susan B. Anthony. She has brought the famed suffragist to life for over thirty years through reenactments at schools, community events, and historical programs. 

• Mr. Lachuman Pokhrel - A longtime member and Garden Steward of Foodlink’s Lexington Avenue Community Farm, Lachuman supports one of Rochester’s largest refugee-centered community gardens. Originally from Nepal, he waited 20 years before finally arriving in the United States. He has spent the last six years volunteering at the garden, where he grows food for his own family and helps sustain a space that serves more than 70 local refugee families.

• Ms. Norma Thom - A prominent voice in the Caribbean American community, Norma is a founding member of The Rochester West Indian Festival Organization (RWIFO). Her leadership and involvement through RWIFO has promoted Caribbean heritage in Rochester, fostering unity and cultural pride across the region. Outside of her community advocacy, Thom also had a distinguished career working at Eastman Kodak Company for 29 years in their supply chain and logistics department.

NYS Empire Awards

• ABC School of Driving - Established in 1973, the ABC School of Driving is currently the #1 rated driver and traffic safety education training program in our region. ABC’s courses are taught by NYS DMV certified instructors and they offer classes to help individuals obtain their license, improve their driving skills, and lower their insurance costs. 

• DiMarco Group - DiMarco has been operating for over 100 years, priding themselves on providing high-quality construction and reality services. Aside from their normal operations, they also place a strong emphasis on giving back to the community and performing charity work. 

• Genesee Global Group - This manufacturing company specializes in welding, sheet metal fabrication, machining, painting, and more. Since their founding out of a chicken coop in 1948, Genesee Global Group has expanded their services and is known for their legacy of innovation, quality, and leadership.

• The Inn on Broadway - Known for its historic charm and elegant accommodations, The Inn on Broadway has provided a luxury hotel experience in the heart of downtown Rochester for over a century. The Inn is also known for hosting weddings and special events, and is home to Gio’s Prime 26 Steakhouse and Vanni’s Jazz Lounge. 

• NY Trendz - Committed to high quality men’s and women’s jewelry and accessories, NY Trendz is a staple of Greece Ridge Mall. They have been providing a wide range of styles and brands since 1998. 

• Palmer Food Services - Originally founded in 1849, Palmer’s supplies fresh meat, poultry, and seafood to schools, restaurants, colleges, healthcare facilities and more. They are renowned for their efforts to give back to the community and for their personal and professional service. 

• Pop Style International - Pop Style provides authentic Jamaican and Caribbean comfort meals to Rochesterians such as chicken, oxtail, patties, kabobs, and wraps. Every year, Pop Style hosts a back-to-school giveaway, handing out hundreds of free bookbags, school supplies, and free food to the community. 

• ROC Industrial - A family-owned business, ROC Industrial provides high-quality industrial equipment, supplies, and repair services. They are also committed to supporting the community and fostering the next generation of trades professionals, participating in workforce development programs throughout Rochester. 

• USC Builds - A staple in the construction industry for more than 23 years, USC Builds’ mission is “rooted in unity, social impact, and craftsmanship.” They focus on workforce development, training, and as an MWBE, bringing economic and employment opportunities to all members of our community. 

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