Rochester
Morning News
Wednesday, February 25th, 2026
Good morning, Rochester. Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 25th of February.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Local high school students were honored on Monday night at the Watts Conference Center for their 'Stop DWI' videos that warn against impaired driving. The three winners earned certificates and a cash prize as the contest aimed to boost local awareness in Monroe County. News 10
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Trader Joe's was named the top grocery chain in the 2026 American Consumer Satisfaction Index with a score of 86, beating Publix by two points. The survey, based on over 31,000 responses, shows strong customer loyalty and notes Trader Joe's growing presence, including its Rochester store on Monroe Avenue. Democrat & Chronicle
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Legendary singer Gladys Knight will headline the Rochester International Jazz Festival on Friday, June 26 at 8 p.m. at Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre—tickets will go on sale Friday at 10 a.m. News 10
- ➤ The George Eastman Museum received city approval to remove its deteriorated fence on University Ave — removal is scheduled for April following a unanimous board vote. The museum will install select new sections to echo the historic barrier and plant eight heirloom apple trees on the property. WXXI News
- ➤ The 128th Lilac Festival will take place in May in Highland Park and feature different national music headliners + supporting acts at the KeyBank Center Stage from May 8 to May 17. News 10
- ➤ Fairport native Lucas West advanced in NBC’s season 29 of The Voice on Monday night when both Adam Levine and John Legend turned their chairs for his rendition of Elton John’s 'Bennie and the Jets.' He chose John Legend’s team and studies music at SUNY Fredonia (jazz). News 10
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ A local letter outlined Rochester’s Blue Economy plan to boost data center investment by using Lake Ontario’s constant 4°C deep water for cooling — a closed-loop system that could cut energy use by up to 90%. The plan offers a safe, sustainable alternative to coastal tech hubs. Rochester Beacon
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ ROC the Future Alliance, a group of 30+ organizations, will host its 13th State of Our Children Address tomorrow at the Theater at Innovation Square from 2 to 4 p.m. The event will release report card on progress toward putting 11,000 youth on a path to upward mobility by 2030. Rochester Beacon
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Monroe County Water Authority said recent water main breaks do not increase chlorine levels in local drinking water, explaining that colder temperatures slow chlorine depletion. Residents can be assured that the water is monitored daily to remain within a safe range. News 10
- ➤ On Monday at the Thomas P. Ryan R-Center, Mayor Malik Evans and RRH volunteer nurse educators demonstrated hands-only CPR to mark Heart Month. Rochester Regional Health donated 15 CPR training kits to local R-Centers as part of the city's push to become a HEARTsafe Community. News 10
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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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Calgary Roughnecks vs. Rochester Knighthawks
1-2 p.m. — Blue Cross Arena — Ticket prices vary — Marvel at the high-energy lacrosse showdown between two fierce rivals.
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Sensory Friendly Hockey Games: Amerks
6:15-9:30 p.m. — Blue Cross Arena — Tickets required — Experience a more inclusive hockey game with sensory-friendly adjustments for all fans.
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Tannahill Weavers Concert
8-11 p.m. — Lovin' Cup — $35 — Experience the captivating blend of traditional Scottish melodies and modern rhythms from this acclaimed band.
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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
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