Rochester
Morning News
Thursday, January 8th, 2026
Good morning, Rochester. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 8th of January.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ The Roman Catholic Diocese in Rochester named John Bonnici as its new bishop after Pope Leo XIV accepted Bishop Salvatore Matano's resignation on Wednesday morning. A news conference to share more details is scheduled for today at 10:45 a.m. News 10
- ➤ Bishop Salvatore Matano resigned from his role—John Bonnici was named his successor yesterday per a church press release. The change marks a new chapter for the diocese and the local community. ABC 13
- ➤ Heritage Christian Services and Foodlink hosted a pop-up food pantry Wednesday at Pieters Family Life Center on Commons Way (from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.) for up to 250 families battling food insecurity; over 50 volunteers helped distribute groceries. News 10
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ After a branch fell on power lines near a Brighton viewer’s property, local utility companies noted that each firm is responsible for clearing hazards +customers should not attempt removal+. RG&E could not claim the line +but Spectrum promptly sent a team to inspect and remove the branch+. News 10
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Monroe County health officials report a rise in flu cases — 11 deaths and increased hospitalizations — as the strain leads to high flu activity across the state. They urge residents to get their flu shots and follow safety measures to protect themselves. Democrat & Chronicle
- ➤ Dr. Elizabeth Murray of UR Medicine Golisano Children’s Hospital expressed disappointment over federal vaccine recommendation changes — New York continues to require full immunizations for school entry as parents navigate vaccine concerns. She cautioned that reduced vaccination may lead to a return of preventable diseases. WXXI News
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ The Bills will face the Jaguars in Jacksonville for a wild-card playoff game Sunday at 1 p.m. with NFL rushing champ James Cook set to lead the offense — the team aims to overcome a top run defense challenge on the road. Spectrum News
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The Dinner Detective: True Crime Murder Mystery Dinner Show
6 PM — RIT Inn & Conference Center — Ticket prices vary — Participate in solving a hilarious true crime murder mystery while enjoying dinner.
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Coming Down, Jordan Moss, The Rogues Concert
9 PM - 11:55 PM — Bug Jar — Tickets starting at $6.65 — Experience an eclectic mix of punk and indie rock performances in a local favorite venue.
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In the Zone Card Show
Mall hours — In The Zone — Free entry — Explore a wide variety of cards at this exciting two-day event perfect for collectors.
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G. Love and Special Sauce Live
7:00-8:30 p.m. — Rose Marie and John Beston Hall — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of alternative hip-hop vibes from this Philadelphia band inspired by the Beastie Boys.
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School of Rock Seasonal Show: New Wave, Classic Metal, and Pop Legends
5-7:30 p.m. — Lovin' Cup — Free entry — Experience a vibrant showcase of talented young musicians performing classic rock anthems and modern hits.
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Wood Flower Centerpiece Class at Blue Barn Cidery
6:30-8:30 p.m. — Blue Barn Cidery — Includes one complimentary drink — Unleash your creativity in this hands-on class to craft a stunning wood flower centerpiece.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Yesterday I was clever, so I wanted to change the world. Today I am wise, so I am changing myself.
~ Rumi
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