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Monday, April 20th, 2026

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Good morning, Rochester. Here's your local news at a glance for Monday, the 20th of April.

COMMUNITY NEWS

  • Rochester in Focus highlights local stories. Organizers Clay Harris and Derrick Grambling preview the Gloves Up, Guns Down event at Blue Cross Arena, Pastor Willie Lightfoot discusses a class for seniors at Prayer House Church by Faith, and Laughing Gull Chocolates founders join author Pam Sherman debuting her book.  News 10
  • Severe storms produced tornadoes that damaged many homes across nearby Midwest states, and Rochester offers a temporary shelter for displaced residents. Cleanup efforts continue as local officials work to restore power and repair roads.  WXXI News
  • The Lyrids meteor shower will peak on the nights of April 22 and 23, giving local sky watchers a chance to see bright fireballs from comet Thatcher. Experts suggest finding dark areas away from city lights for the best viewing experience.  Democrat & Chronicle
  • National Work Zone Awareness Week begins today to remind drivers to slow down and move over near local road work, as Triple A urges motorists to put down their phones and stay alert for emergency vehicles.  News 10
  • Honor Flight Mission 94 returned to the Rochester airport late Sunday morning as crowds gathered to welcome 58 veterans from the Korean War, Cold War, Vietnam and other conflicts. Local meteorologist Stacy Pengen emceed the event.  News 10
  • Today, over a thousand runners and walkers braved wet weather at Genesee Valley Park for the Rochester River Run to raise funds for transplant patients at Strong Hospital + help cover costs like transportation and medications. One donor family met a transplant recipient + the event showcased community unity in supporting those in need.  News 10

BUSINESS NEWS

  • Char Steak & Lounge at the Strathallan Hotel and Spa reopened in February with a new look featuring a spacious island bar and updated decor; a spring menu debuts tomorrow, April 21, and guests can enjoy a renowned selection of 750 wines and crafted cocktails.  Democrat & Chronicle

HEALTH NEWS

  • UR Medicine's deputy director warns that climate change and old housing will worsen air quality and cause more asthma attacks by raising humidity and mold, especially when extreme heat sets in. Residents with asthma are advised to check drains and repair roofs while using dehumidifiers to ease symptoms.  WXXI News
  • The Skin Cancer Foundation offered free full-body screenings in Pittsford on Sunday, April 19 and will provide them today at Norton Village Park in Rochester from 10 a.m. — 4 p.m. The program helps detect skin cancer early while educating the community about sun protection.  ABC 13

SPORTS NEWS

  • The Faber Builders Boys Sports Athlete of the Week vote is open until 8 p.m. Wednesday for Section V’s top candidates from April 13-19; sports reporters chose the nominees and the winner will be announced on Instagram Thursday morning.  Democrat & Chronicle
  • Don Stevens, the longtime voice of the Amerks, will call his final regular season game on Sunday afternoon in Rochester after nearly 40 years in sports broadcasting, having covered over 5,000 events in his storied career.  ABC 13
  • Draft analyst Sal Maiorana said the Bills have six positions in play for their first-round pick in the upcoming NFL Draft on Thursday night in Pittsburgh. Among the options is Rochester native KC Concepcion, a versatile wide receiver who could boost Buffalo's offense.  Democrat & Chronicle
  • Cait Brogan, a wheelchair basketball player with the Wheels, said her first game in January brought joy and spurred her to sell Taylor Swift themed bracelets+ fund an adaptive chair for her wedding dance in August. The Wheels will play their final exhibition game Wednesday at Nazareth University.  News 10

EVENTS

SUBMIT EVENT
  • Walter Trout Performance

    7-9 p.m. — Fanatics Pub — Tickets required — Experience an evening of soulful blues with Walter Trout.

    Wed, 4/22/26

    View event
  • 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.

    Fri, 4/24/26

    View event
  • 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.

    Sat, 4/25/26

    View event
  • 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.

    Sun, 4/26/26

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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.

    Wed, 4/29/26

    View event
  • 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.

    Sat, 5/2/26

    View event
  • 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.

    Wed, 5/6/26

    View event
  • 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.

    Thu, 5/7/26

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  • Big Jay Oakerson Concert

    9:00 PM — Comedy @ The Carlson — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an evening of laughs with comedian Big Jay Oakerson.

    Fri, 5/8/26

    View event
  • Step Off Competition Reunion

    2-5 p.m. — East High School — Kids 2 and Under Free, Kids 3-12 $15 — Celebrate the reunion of step competition participants with performances and community spirit.

    Sat, 5/9/26

    View event

REAL ESTATE

SUBMIT LISTING

No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.

JOB BOARD

SUBMIT JOB

No new job posts today. You can submit one here.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

SUBMIT

No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.

TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT

They who can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty nor safety.

~ Benjamin Franklin

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