Good morning, Rochester.

JJ Philp, a third grader at Cobbs Elementary School in Penfield, used his birthday money to help a homeless woman and her five children by providing about $150 for a hotel stay.

His mother nominated him for the Do the Right Thing award after he overheard her discuss the woman's need for immediate shelter—recognizing his kind act.

Officials announced that the former RG&E gas site was fully cleaned up on May 12 and will be turned into a waterpark at High Falls State Park.

A final design that includes a path down to the gorge is expected by the end of 2025 (as part of the Roc the Riverway project) and the park will open in stages (over the next several years).

An 18 year old teen was shot on Augustine Street in northwest Rochester just before 10 p.m. Saturday and taken by private vehicle to a hospital where his injuries are life threatening but stable — police continue to investigate the incident near Aquinas Institute.

The Rochester School Board approved a $1.1 billion budget for the 2025-2026 school year, a $46 million increase from last year that will not raise taxes for city residents and aims to boost reading and math skills while cutting chronic absenteeism.

The plan reduces 73 teacher positions, adds more support staff, and awaits City Council approval on June 17.

County Executive Adam Bello announced that applications are now open for a free EMS training program funded by $4.2 million in ARPA for Monroe County residents who want to work as EMTs or paramedics.

Monroe Community College (MCC) will start classes this fall, and applications are due by June 1.

Paragon USA & Co will provide $13,500 worth of baby formula to Rochester families as part of a price gouging settlement (after raising prices by over 20% during a 2022 shortage) and Foodlink will distribute the donation (which must be completed by June 10).

Rochester police welcomed 13 graduates from its Workforce Development Program on May 12 after hundreds of hours of volunteer work and learning what it means to serve the community.

The new recruits will join the police academy next month + Chief David Smith said the program is key to easing the department's shortage of 110 officers + the initiative recently earned national recognition.

Pre-Mite/6U Spring Player Development Clinic 2025

6:15-7:05 p.m. — Lakeshore Hockey Arena — $135 — Enhance young players' hockey skills with focused development sessions on edge work and puck handling.

RPO 24/25 Season Gala

5:30-11:30 p.m. — Joseph A. Floreano Rochester Riverside Convention Center — Cost info available on request — Celebrate the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra's new season with an evening of cocktails, dinner, and orchestral performances.

Rochester New York Versus Niagara 1812

4 PM — Empire United Soccer Complex — Ticket prices vary — Catch an exciting soccer match as Rochester takes on Niagara 1812.

Rochester New York II vs Flower City Union Match

7:45 p.m. — Empire United Soccer Complex — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an exciting football match featuring local teams in a vibrant atmosphere.

Rochester New York II vs Syracuse FC

7:45 p.m. — Empire United Soccer Complex — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a thrilling football match featuring local talent.

stop.drop.rewind Live Performance

6:30-11 p.m. — Bug Jar — $10 — Experience the energetic sounds of a Midwest power trio blending pop punk, jazz, and progressive rock.

Tribute to The King and Queen: Tito Puente & Celia Cruz

9 PM — Skylark Lounge — Ticket required — Experience the vibrant rhythms of Tito Puente and the enchanting melodies of Celia Cruz at this lively tribute event.

The Freak Out Flea Market

10 a.m.-4 p.m. — Genesee Gateway Park — $45 for vendor space — A vibrant market showcasing local vendors, creators, and small businesses in a welcoming environment.

50's Rock n Roll Tribute Concert

8 PM - 12 AM — Marge's Lakeside Inn — Entry fee at the door — Dance the night away with Bec, the Bopcats, and the Sideburns in a celebration of classic 50's rock n roll.

American Aquarium Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — Anthology — Tickets available — Experience the high-energy return of American Aquarium with their powerful country-rock and incisive lyrics.