Rochester
Morning News
Thursday, January 22nd, 2026
Good morning, Rochester. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 22nd of January.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Ground crews de-iced an Avelo Airlines Boeing 737 at Greater Rochester International Airport today as temperatures plummeted in a winter chill (ensuring safe operations). Democrat & Chronicle
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Christopher Bates' cozy Finger Lakes restaurant was named a James Beard semifinalist for its wine and beverage program in 2025. Nominees were announced on Apr. 2 and winners were revealed on June 16 (at the Lyric Opera in Chicago). Democrat & Chronicle
- ➤ GameStop will close local stores at Eastridge Plaza on East Ridge Road, and in Victor and Webster as part of its plan to shutter nearly 500 outlets nationwide. The retailer has not confirmed reopening dates — the decision follows last year's closures. News 10
- ➤ Empire Fiber Internet has expanded its 100% fiber service to Irondequoit, now available for 3,500+ homes with 24/7 local support and clear pricing. The expansion follows the company’s successful launch in Greece in Aug. 2025. News 10
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Grossology is a new exhibit at the Strong Museum of Play that shows kids how their bodies work in gross ways (it is based on a popular book series). The exhibit will run until May 3. ABC 13
- ➤ Two iconic American rock bands, Blues Traveler & Gin Blossoms, will co-headline a summer tour with special guests Spin Doctors at CMAC on Aug. 9 at 6 p.m., while tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. Jan. 23. Democrat & Chronicle
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ A French company will build a $390 million textile regeneration hub at Eastman Business Park that is expected to create about 70 jobs in Rochester. Gov. Kathy Hochul announced the project on Tuesday, and the 145,000 sqft facility will be operational by the end of 2029. Rochester Beacon
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ City leaders in Rochester are expected to release the first Vision Zero report that outlines plans to reduce traffic deaths to zero. The report highlights bump-outs at crosswalks, bright signs, and speed radar cameras at key intersections — a campaign launched in 2024. News 10
- ➤ Rochester City School District is working to fix errors in its recently mailed W2 forms after payroll issues began with the Oracle system on July 1. Staff are told not to file taxes if forms are incorrect and to file a claim with payroll — more details will follow. News 10
- ➤ Rochester’s new school bus safety program is in effect, so drivers must stop if a school bus flashes red lights even on the opposite side of a median (tickets with points will be issued for violations). Local officials clarified the rule following a viewer query. News 10
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Flu cases have dropped for three weeks in the region as 1,028 cases were reported for the week ending Jan. 10, according to Roc Health Data. Hospitalizations have also declined — though officials warn that a second peak remains possible. News 10
- ➤ PingPongParkinson's launches its 2026 session today at Perinton Community Center to help Parkinson's patients stay active — the event will offer engaging ping pong activities designed to promote physical well-being. ABC 13
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Pittsford native Chris Lillis (a gold medalist) has qualified for Team USA's aerial freestyle skiing team ahead of the Winter Olympics in Italy. His parents discussed his journey before the team announcement coming Wednesday. News 10
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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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Charlotte Checkers vs. Rochester Americans
7:05-9:05 p.m. — Blue Cross Arena — Ticket prices vary — Watch the exciting showdown between the Charlotte Checkers and Rochester Americans on the ice!
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Candlelight Concert: Coldplay & Imagine Dragons
7-8 p.m. — Temple Theater — Tickets available — Experience the enchanting melodies of Coldplay and Imagine Dragons performed under the gentle glow of candlelight.
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Seven Wonders - A Tribute to Fleetwood Mac
7:30-11:30 p.m. — The Theater At Innovation Square — Tickets available — Experience the energy and legacy of Fleetwood Mac through this stunning tribute band.
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
The best time to negotiate something is when you don't need it.
~ Michael Benoit
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