Ed Smith sits down with Bill Evans, manager of the Tool Thrift Shop in Fairport, to share how this all‑volunteer nonprofit has supported seniors in Perinton for more than 16 years. Bill explains how the Tool Thrift Shop and its sister store, Crafts Bits and Pieces, turn donated tools and equipment into funding for transportation and counseling services through the Fairport Perinton Senior Connection. From doctor visits and grocery trips to help navigating Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, and housing needs, every purchase directly fuels essential support for local seniors. Bill also highlights the shop’s unique community connections, including a partnership with the Buffalo Maritime Museum, which used tools from the store to help build the Seneca Chief.

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Ed Smith chats with photographer Jen Semmler, whose distinctive approach to capturing dogs brings out each pup’s personality. Jen shares how she developed her craft and why photographing dogs is both an art and a joy. Jen also discusses her collaboration with the Fairport Public Library, where she has been creating portraits of staff members’ dogs. The finished collection will be displayed throughout the library by the end of June.

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This week on Sidewalk Talk, Ed Smith and Village of Fairport Mayor Julie Domaratz sit down for a wide‑ranging conversation about what is happening across the village. Mayor Domaratz shares an update on the status of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative, walks through highlights from the recently passed 2026–27 village budget, and offers a preview of the many summer events that will bring energy and activity to Fairport in the months ahead.

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This week, Ed Smith talks with Fairport Canal Days co‑chairs Ian Winner and Lydia Rugaber about the festival’s beginnings, this year’s can’t‑miss moments (hello, Lucas West!), and the return of the duck race and free shuttle service.

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Ed Smith sits down with Jay Edgerton, Senior Vice Commander of Fairport VFW Post 8495, to talk about this year’s Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony and why honoring those who gave the ultimate sacrifice matters more than ever. Edgerton also shares how the Fairport VFW and Auxiliary serve the community and he invites neighbors to stop by, get involved, or see what the post is all about.

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Ed Smith chats with Jay Edgerton from Fairport VFW Post 8495 about the Fairport Day of Service on May 23 at 9 a.m. at South Perinton Cemetery. Edgerton shares why the project began, how it honors local veterans, and how you can roll up your sleeves and join the volunteer crew.

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Ed Smith sits down with Captain Tammee Poinan Grimes, owner and captain of the Colonial Belle. She shares what is new aboard the Colonial Belle this summer. Captain Tammee also looks ahead to the 2026 opening of the Erie Canal, sharing why this milestone is more than symbolic. It is a major economic driver for our region, fueling tourism, local business, and the vitality of canal communities like ours.

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This week on Sidewalk Talk, Ed Smith sits down with Julie Melnik, manager of the Fairport Farmers Market, for a look at what is ahead as Market season returns. Julie shares what visitors can expect when the Market opens for the season this Saturday. She also offers a preview of the Market’s Spring Fling on May 9. It is a quick, cheerful look at two of Fairport’s most anticipated May weekends.

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This week on Sidewalk Talk: Ed Smith chats with Christina Thompson and Meredith Utman from the Breast Cancer Coalition of Rochester about their strategic plan, new youth survivor group, continued cancer research support, and the upcoming Pink & Teal Challenge on May 9 at Monroe Community College.

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Ed Smith welcomes Supervisor Jenn Townsend for a thoughtful conversation about settling into office, navigating the town’s revaluation process, and rolling out a new quarterly newsletter to keep residents connected. A timely episode for anyone following what’s happening in Perinton.

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