Shortly after Omar Ramos Jimenez moved into a new 19th Ward neighborhood several years ago, he slipped Christmas cards into the mailboxes of each of his neighbors.

It was his way of saying hello and expressing gratitude for his new community. He quickly became a reliable presence.

"Papa Omar," neighbors said, is the guy who clears your sidewalk and puts down salt during icy Rochester winters. Everyone on the block has an open invite to the Day of the Dead parties Ramos Jimenez and his wife Maria Bocanegra throw in their home each year. He will pause yardwork to have a real conversation with you.

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