Ogden Town Board presents proclamations to Keith Ryan and Aurora House

On Wednesday, September 10, the Ogden Town Board formally presented proclamations to Westside News Publisher Keith Ryan and to the staff of Aurora House Comfort Care Home.

Keith Ryan was recognized for his receipt of the Major Donald Holleder Lifetime Achievement Award and in celebration of his decades of service to the Ogden community and the greater west side of Rochester.

Keith has dedicated more than five decades to local journalism through his work at Westside News, ultimately leading the publication as its Owner, President, and Publisher. Under his leadership, the paper became a vital source of accurate and timely information, connecting residents and fostering civic engagement across the region.

“Keith’s contributions through Westside News over the past decades have made a tremendous impact in keeping residents informed about what is happening in their community. The legacy he has built at Westside News is lasting and will continue to benefit future generations,” said Ogden Town Supervisor Mike Zale.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Keith has been an active leader in many community organizations. He has served on and presided over the Spencerport Area Chamber of Commerce, participated in other west side chambers, and held roles within the Kiwanis Club of Spencerport. He was also instrumental in organizing the annual Spencerport Canal Days, an event that has become a cherished local tradition.

In recognition of his lifelong dedication, Keith was honored on June 10, 2025 with the Major Donald Holleder Lifetime Achievement Award, a prestigious distinction reserved for individuals whose lives exemplify sportsmanship, character, courage, and achievement.

“Keith’s history of outstanding public service should be valued and appreciated by all. Through his work and leadership, he has demonstrated a tireless commitment to serving others and to bringing people together through community-centered journalism and civic engagement,” Zale said.

The staff of Aurora House was recognized in honor of their upcoming 15-year anniversary on September 22. Aurora House has been serving the community since 2010, providing compassionate end-of-life care to individuals during their final weeks and months. All services are offered free of charge, made possible through generous donations, memorials, grants, and fundraisers.

“Over the past 15 years, Aurora House has made a tremendous impact on the lives of countless individuals, families, and members of our community,” said Ogden Town Supervisor Mike Zale. “The work they do and the services they provide are selfless and inspiring. It was a privilege to celebrate their 15-year milestone and to learn more about their incredible mission.”

Aurora House was founded by Sandie Ville, who envisioned bringing the gift of a comfort home to the westside communities of Monroe County. Incorporated in March 2007 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, Aurora House’s property at 2495 South Union Street in Spencerport was generously donated by Ogden Presbyterian Church. Construction began in September 2009, and on September 22, 2010, Aurora House officially opened its doors, serving 22 families in its first year of operation.

“On behalf of the Ogden Town Board and the entire community, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to all the staff and volunteers at Aurora House for dedicating yourselves to such a meaningful mission,” Zale concluded. “The work you have done over the past 15 years is truly remarkable, and I look forward to seeing the impact you will continue to make in the years ahead.”

To learn more about Aurora House, visit aurorahousewmc.com. For questions, call 585-617-4863 or submit a message via the Contact tab on their website.

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