Rochester
Morning News
Thursday, February 19th, 2026
Good morning, Rochester. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 19th of February.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Yesterday, the Center for Teen Empowerment opened its new hub on Dewey Avenue to offer a space for youth leadership, cultural expression, and public policy dialogue (its programs have empowered over 40,000 young people). Mayor Malik Evans attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony. ABC 13
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Wegmans, based in Rochester, shared research from a January forum that showed many shoppers now prefer healthy foods and online orders, prompting the chain to expand digital delivery options & use social media tracking to refine its products. Rochester Beacon
- ➤ Local contractors report a rock salt shortage as cold weather delayed shipments and forced salt rationing. Rochester Lawn Care received a tractor trailer load today but must stretch its supply while costs rise — a challenge echoed by other regional operators. News 10
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ The Rochester community is honoring Rev. Jesse Jackson—a civil rights leader who visited during his 1984 and 1988 presidential campaigns and spoke at a commemorative event in 2007—after he died Tuesday at age 84. News 10
- ➤ Artists can submit performance pitches for the 2026 Rochester Fringe Festival online this week. The event will run from Sept. 15 to Sept. 26 – over 20 local venues including the Harley School and Downtown United Presbyterian Church will host performances. Democrat & Chronicle
- ➤ Damon Thomas celebrates Black History Month with art at the Arc of Monroe by creating jewelry and keychains that honor his ancestors + he aims to inspire locals with a message of freedom and joy. News 10
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Families have left Rochester City Schools amid concerns over inconsistent quality and safety, with top students opting for suburban and charter programs. Educators say the trend highlights a need for more stable, supportive school environments. Rochester Beacon
- ➤ Twelve School of the Arts students have been creating original murals as part of a commission from Spectrum to add color and local stories to its Rochester offices (the project has been ongoing for several weeks). Their artworks are now on display. ABC 13
LIFESTYLE NEWS
- ➤ Tink is a 13-year-old steely grey pet searching for a calm retirement home in the community. The gentle companion enjoys cozy nooks and quiet moments while exploring soft bird videos, and potential adopters can learn more about her temperament. ABC 13
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Heavy snow forecast postponed the men's freestyle aerial skiing event at the Winter Olympics in Italy, moving local Olympian Chris Lillis’ competition to Feb. 20 + the Bristol Mountain watch party is delayed pending updated plans. Democrat & Chronicle
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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.
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Family Chess Club
3-4 p.m. — Winton Branch Library — Free entry — Engage in chess strategy and fun for all skill levels at this family-friendly club.
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Nintendo Switch Thursday
4:00 – 5:30 PM — Winton Branch Library — Free entry — Experience gaming fun with Mario, Link, and Pokémon at this family-friendly event.
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Grease School Edition
7 p.m. — OFC Creations Theatre Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience the classic musical reimagined for schools in a community theater setting.
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2026 Fly Fishers Workshop
9:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. — Jewish Community Center — Free entry — Enjoy a day of fly fishing workshops, seminars, and family-friendly conservation education with food trucks and live music.
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Customer Service Insurance Agent - Personal Lines
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No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
The hard part isn't making the decision. It's living with it.
~ Ryan Holiday
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