Rochester
Morning News
Thursday, January 29th, 2026
Good morning, Rochester. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 29th of January.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ The Greater Boat Show starts today at the Riverside Convention Center with hundreds of boats and on-site financing available through Sunday. The Lakeside Winter Celebration at Ontario Beach Park features a snow sculpture contest, wagon rides, and a polar plunge on Sunday to support Special Olympics New York. News 10
- ➤ Experts warn Rochester residents to protect water pipes during the ongoing cold snap by keeping the heat on and disconnecting outdoor hoses. Plumbing manager Matt Codd (Ryan Plumbing, Heating and Fire Protection) advises that missed precautions may lead to pipes bursting when temperatures warm up. ABC 13
- ➤ United Way of Greater Rochester and the Finger Lakes launched its 2026 Community Campaign on Wednesday to raise $17M following last year's $16.7M achievement. Campaign chair Ed Hourihan expects strong local support as partners and nonprofits join the effort. WXXI News
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Strangebird at 62 Marshall St. is competing for Best Brewpub in USA TODAY’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards with votes open until Feb. 23. The team asks local residents to vote daily & help secure a win that celebrates Rochester’s best brew experience. Democrat & Chronicle
- ➤ Pizza NOTA is open in Rochester, serving a New Haven tomato pie (a fresh take on a classic dish) that invites locals to explore innovative flavors. Democrat & Chronicle
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Writers & Books and the Rochester Broadway Theatre League will host a Wicked-themed camp during February break. The camp runs Monday, Feb. 16–Friday, Feb. 20 at West Herr Auditorium Theatre for children (9–12) to explore creative storytelling inspired by the musical. News 10
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ A new $3.4 million bridge opened today in Fairport along Route 250 over Thomas Creek, replacing the 1934 structure to improve safety with upgraded steel railing and curb ramps. The project is part of broader Main Street improvements. News 10
- ➤ A water main break slowed traffic on Elmwood Ave near URMC yesterday as city crews closed the westbound lanes between East Drive & Kendrick Road; lanes will close again today from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. for repairs, and Eastman Dental is open for emergencies only. ABC 13
- ➤ Governor Kathy Hochul announced the availability of $43 million in funding yesterday to expand statewide psychiatric emergency programs, with $23 million for new projects & $20 million to boost community hospital inpatient capacity. This funding aims to ensure timely care for those in crisis. News 10
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Stephannie Joseph visited RocVentures on University Avenue to highlight the gym’s updated features, including foam floors and new bouldering walls (replacing older wrestling mat flooring) to boost safe and active fun. The longtime facility, open since 1996, continues to offer a fitness option to the community. ABC 13
LIFESTYLE NEWS
- ➤ Four unique Airbnb winter getaways in the Finger Lakes offer cozy cabins, chalets, and tiny homes — some featuring hot tubs and fire pits — with bookings available in late January and early February. Democrat & Chronicle
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Pittsford native Chris Lillis, a gold medalist in aerial skiing, is preparing to compete in his second Winter Olympics in Italy with travel scheduled for Feb. 4; he trains in Lake Placid and will perform at Livigno Aerials and Moguls Park. News 10
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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.
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Family Chess Club
3-4 p.m. — Winton Branch Library — Free entry — Everyone from grand masters to rookies can come play and share strategies at this welcoming chess gathering.
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Rochester Speed Dating for Singles Age 31-44
6:30-8:30 p.m. — The Hideaway — Ticket required — Meet up to 12 potential matches in a fun and friendly environment.
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Electric Feels - Indie Rock and Electronic Dance Party
9-11:30 p.m. — Anthology — Tickets start at $48 — Experience an unforgettable indie rock and electronic dance party in Rochester.
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Casting Connections: Ice Fishing Edition
8:00 AM - 3:30 PM — Braddock Bay Park — Cost included — Experience a unique outdoor adventure focused on building connections through ice fishing.
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
Life isn't about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself.
~ George Bernard Shaw
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