Pizzaworks – 12 Years of Supporting Music in Williamsville
by Yijie Han
Embedded Files
Mr. Jim Radomski and Mr. Michael Russo (right)
Pizzaworks, located at Maple and North Forest, has supported the Williamsville Music Boosters for more than a decade through annual pizza dinner fundraisers. Since 2014, owner Mr. Jim Radomski has kept the tradition going, and this coming January marks the 12th consecutive year — a milestone that celebrates both his generosity and the community’s enthusiasm.
Jim has owned Pizzaworks since 2010, but his ties to Williamsville go back much further. He was a math teacher at Heim Middle School in the early 2000s, where he became friends with Mr. Michael Russo. Mike had spent a decade teaching band at Mill and Transit Middle Schools before moving to Heim as a computer teacher. Another decade later, when Mike became the district’s Director of Fine Arts, he began brainstorming new fundraising ideas for the Boosters and turned to Jim. Their friendship and shared commitment to music education sparked the very first Pizzaworks fundraiser, a tradition that has continued ever since.
Jim describes Pizzaworks as more than a restaurant: “We have a lot of community interaction. We do a lot of donations — pet rescues, sports teams, dance groups. People know us personally, and it’s a place where they feel comfortable.”
For Jim, the fundraiser’s longevity is proof of its success: “If the Boosters want to keep doing it, it means it works. And if it works, it’s fantastic — that’s why we do it.” What stands out most to him is the gratitude from customers: “Unlike other donations, people thank us directly when they come in with the flyers. It happens over and over, and it means a lot.”
Jim believes strongly in supporting music education: “Music often gets the last bit of help, but it’s just as important as other areas. It needs attention and support.” He emphasizes that music helps students become well‑rounded and develop diverse interests.
As the partnership enters its 12th year, Jim is excited for what’s next: “I think we’re in it for the long run,” he says with a laugh, adding: “as Mike will make me do it!” A fun fact: Mike is now working at Pizza Works after his retirement from the district office.
Join us in celebrating Pizzaworks’ 12th year of supporting the Williamsville Music Boosters! On Tuesday, January 27th, stop by, enjoy dinner, and say hello to Jim and Mike at the counter!
The Williamsville Music Boosters deeply appreciate Pizzaworks’ continued support and generosity.
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