Rochester
Morning News
Saturday, January 17th, 2026
Good morning, Rochester. Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 17th of January.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Brighton honored former teacher Barbara De Leeuw with the 'Keeper of the Dream' award during its Martin Luther King Jr. Day commemoration on Friday. Supervisor Bill Moehle recognized her long-standing commitment to education and peace as local students shared reflections during the performance of 'A Change is Going to Come.' News 10
- ➤ Rochester is commemorating Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with several local events including family-friendly programs at the museum from Jan. 17 — 19, free luminary supplies at Arnett Library on Jan. 17, a community celebration at Kodak Hall on Jan. 19, and university keynotes on Jan. 29 and Jan. 31. Democrat & Chronicle
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Rochester’s local business iSmash, started in 2018, has sold over 100 franchises while operating 10 locations including the original in Henrietta & one in Syracuse. Founder Steven Shortino expects 30 to 40 shops to be open by year-end. Democrat & Chronicle
- ➤ Verizon Wireless experienced a software update glitch on Wednesday — phones displayed an SOS icon that limited calls to emergency services while data networks remained functional. The carrier apologized Friday and promised a $20 credit through its app. ABC 13
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ TYKEs presents 'Are You My Mother?' today at the JCC Hart Theater with its musical adaptation of the classic picture book, featuring a production by adult actors for children 3 and up, and shows on Jan. 18, 24, and 25 with tickets at $22 for members and $24 for nonmembers. Rochester Beacon
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ Rising energy costs and strained electric infrastructure in Monroe County, including a key substation in Henrietta, are delaying housing and job projects while officials plan state-funded upgrades + investments to restore capacity and boost local economic development. Democrat & Chronicle
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ University of Rochester's Warner School of Education & Human Development received a $1 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education to enhance postsecondary programs for students with intellectual disabilities — the four-year grant funds a partnership with the Inclusive Higher Education Accreditation Council to develop dedicated accrediting agencies. News 10
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Monroe County Code Blue warming centers reached full capacity Thursday night as bitter cold forced residents to seek shelter, with legislator Mercedes Vazquez Simmons handing out warm clothing and gloves while urging an expansion of services. ABC 13
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Dr. Elizabeth Murray of Golisano Children's Hospital works with ARC Rochester to offer safety tips on using over-the-counter medications this cold season + advise parents to avoid dangerous drug combinations for children. FOX Rochester
- ➤ Wegmans expanded its recall for Locatelli Grated Pecorino Romano cheese due to potential listeria; the product sold between Nov. 14 and Nov. 24 in stores is in plastic tubs with scale labels — customers can return it for a full refund — though no illnesses have been reported. News 10
LIFESTYLE NEWS
- ➤ Vital Garnish, a restaurant and bar without a liquor license, opened in downtown Canandaigua last December offering healthy mocktails and produce-based dishes. Owner Leah Fricano, who also runs a Rochester salon, says the venue fosters face-to-face connection at 145 S. Main St. Democrat & Chronicle
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ New York Special Olympics is hosting its winter games in Rochester on Feb. 20 and Feb. 21 with 900 athletes competing in seven sports — including skiing, figure skating, gymnastics, and snowboarding — and seeks over 300 volunteers to support the event. WXXI News
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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.
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Lynne Hanson: Canada’s Queen of Americana
7-8 p.m. — Abilene Bar & Lounge — $15 at the door — Experience gripping Americana from a singer-songwriter celebrated for her high energy and heartfelt connection with audiences.
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Disney's Pixar's Up in Concert
7:30-10:30 p.m. — Eastman Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience the beloved film 'Up' accompanied by a live orchestra for a magical evening.
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