Rochester
Morning News
Thursday, April 16th, 2026
Good morning, Rochester. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 16th of April.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Tiffany Owens, formerly executive vice president of programs — a trusted leader — has been named interim CEO of the Urban League of Rochester as the board begins a national search for a new leader; she will manage daily operations until October. WXXI News
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Kodak announced a new color negative motion picture film stock, Verita 200-D 5206 7206, developed with Sam Levinson of HBO’s Euphoria that delivers high color saturation, deep blacks and warm skin tones; the film is produced at Eastman Business Park. News 10
- ➤ Art-Craft Optical in Henrietta had its AERO Aviation Technology sunglasses worn by Artemis II astronauts at Kennedy Space Center on April 10. President Charlie Eagle said the high-altitude flight specs + increased demand underscore a growing local impact. ABC 13
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ The National Women’s Hall of Fame named its 2026 inductees, including Janet Yellen and Jackie Joyner-Kersee, who will be honored at the George Eastman Museum on Sept. 24 — a ceremony celebrating achievements in fields from science to education. Rochester Beacon
- ➤ Lucas West, a 21-year-old Fairport native on Team Legend, placed third in NBC's Season 29 finale of The Voice on Tuesday night, while Team Adam's Alexia Jay won the competition, receiving $100,000 plus a record deal; the event featured duets with coaches and live band performances. Democrat & Chronicle
- ➤ On April 15, Memorial Art Gallery held World Art Day when Chris Lopez viewed art from around the world including works by Picasso and an ancient Egyptian sarcophagus. The event showcased international art at our local hub. ABC 13
- ➤ Local author Pam Sherman will discuss her new book Play You: The Role of a Lifetime with former reporter Ginny Ryan. The event begins Tuesday, Apr. 21 at 6:00 p.m. at Book Culture Pittsford (28 South Main St). FOX Rochester
- ➤ Visit Finger Lakes will launch its new Virtual Museum app on Saturday, Apr. 25 at Canandaigua Inn Park at 10:30 a.m. The event, held during National Historic Marker Weekend, will offer a scavenger hunt and volunteering, supported by the William G. Pomeroy Foundation — a digital tour of regional heritage. Democrat & Chronicle
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ Union workers at Unity Living Center ratified a three-year contract with Rochester Regional Health on Wednesday, Apr. 15 that provides wage increases, bonuses, and a uniform allowance. The unanimously approved deal followed a March picket (held on Genesee Street) after seven months of negotiations. ABC 13
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ St. John Fisher University launched a new master’s residency in special education to offer career changers a paid, year-long apprenticeship with local school districts. The 36-credit hour program pays residents $25,000 and aims to ease the teacher shortage. News 10
- ➤ The University of Rochester is offering a one-year master’s opportunity at Simon Business School in partnership with five colleges in Rochester. Students receive at least a 30% tuition scholarship (with waived fees and career coaching) to transition from undergrad to graduate study. News 10
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ A recent appellate court ruling invalidated the law that forced Seneca Meadows' closure, and climate activists now believe Gov. Hochul (with DEC oversight) holds control over the landfill's future as a public comment session on the Valley Infill Project approaches. Rochester Beacon
- ➤ Heavy rainfall in March and continuous erosion triggered a landslide in Irondequoit that forced a family to leave their home. The Monroe County Soil and Water Conservation District said the affected area is still losing ground — prompting neighbors to worry about further damage. News 10
LIFESTYLE NEWS
- ➤ Gregory is a unique three-legged dog with two different-colored eyes who was rescued earlier this year and is looking for a new home; he enjoys playing with toys + eating treats while being on a diet to keep healthy. ABC 13
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Annual Bird of Prey Days Festival
Various times — Braddock Bay Park — $5 suggested donation for adults, kids free — Experience an exciting weekend of raptor education and conservation activities for all ages.
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Georgia Swarm at Rochester Knighthawks
3-6 p.m. — Blue Cross Arena — Cost info not provided — Celebrate Native American Heritage Night while enjoying a thrilling lacrosse match.
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Walter Trout Performance
7-9 p.m. — Fanatics Pub — Tickets required — Experience an evening of soulful blues with Walter Trout.
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A Beautiful Noise Tour
7:30-10:30 p.m. — West Herr Auditorium Theatre / RBTL — Ticket prices vary — Experience the magic of A Beautiful Noise live in Rochester.
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Rochester NY Coffee & Chocolate Festival
10 AM – 6 PM — Joseph A. Floreano Rochester Riverside Convention Center — Cost TBD — Sample a variety of coffee roasts and indulge in chocolate-inspired sweets from local vendors.
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Rochester Regional Health Flower City Challenge
11:00 AM — 285 E Main St, Rochester, NY — Registration fees apply — Enjoy a community-focused half marathon, 5K, and kids races with various volunteer opportunities.
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Family Chess Club
3-4 p.m. — Winton Branch Library — Free entry — Enjoy a friendly atmosphere for chess enthusiasts of all levels to play and strategize.
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The Music of Tina Turner
7-10 p.m. — West Herr Auditorium Theatre / RBTL — Cost Info not provided — Experience legendary hits from the Queen of Rock 'n' Roll by superstar singers.
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Estate Planning Basics with Nathan VanBrunt
3-4 p.m. — Penfield Public Library — Free entry — Gain essential knowledge on wills, trusts, and common estate planning errors in this informative session.
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Pretty in Pink 80s Party featuring Belious Some
6:30-8:30 p.m. — Photo City Music Hall — Tickets available online — Experience 80s nostalgia with live music, iconic hits, and vibrant party vibes.
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 price of freedom is eternal vigilance.
~ Thomas Jefferson
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