Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 14th of May.
Good morning, Rochester.
Craft beverage makers Felipe Higgins and Colin Ferguson are launching Collage Cellars FLX in the Finger Lakes to brew beer and produce wine, cider, and maybe mead.
They will break ground this summer in East Bloomfield for a facility that covers 6400 square feet with a taproom, simple food options, and an orchard—plans that aim to bring fresh drink and dining options to the area.
Brighton Police are searching for a missing 25-year-old man with autism—last seen wearing a red t-shirt and gray sweatpants—and anyone with information is urged to contact them immediately.
The City of Rochester announced that the Rochester Public Market will host Bands on the Bricks summer concert series every Friday from July 11 until August with national and local bands performing free from 6 to 10 p.m.—residents are advised to bring folding chairs and note that only one sealed bottle of water is allowed per person, with no other food or drink permitted.
The Rochester school board approved a $1.1 billion budget on Tuesday for next school year after a state delay, with a $50 million boost to support teaching, learning, and health care.
The budget, which is 4% larger than last year and cuts some teaching positions and funding at Andrew Langston Middle School — where enrollment dropped nearly 44% — will be adjusted when new leadership takes over in July.
The state budget lets school districts ask for up to a 4-year extension on the 2027 deadline for buying zero-emission buses—if market or infrastructure issues prevent timely purchases, the Commissioner of Education can grant the delay and districts can access extra state funds totaling about $600 million. Leaders in the Churchville-Chili district are asking voters to approve buying 10 new electric buses using state aid alongside reserve funds.
A growing pile of trash was found along the Genesee Riverway Trail off Brewer Street on May 13, which local activists say is a health and safety risk with hazardous waste and drug paraphernalia mixed in.
City officials say illegal dumping can lead to fines while community groups call for a full cleanup—raising concerns about rising disposal costs for residents.
Lawmakers and criminal justice advocates are holding a special legislative hearing today to address violence in state correctional facilities following the deaths of Robert Brooks in December and Messiah Nantwi in March — both reportedly beaten by prison guards.
The hearing is the first public forum to question corrections officials since a state budget approved last Thursday promised reforms, and critics say more accountability and new measures are needed.
The state Department of Health warns that ticks pose a risk—able to spread Lyme disease and other illnesses—as outdoor activities increase.
Residents should use repellent, wear protective clothing, and check for ticks after spending time outside.
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.
The Fast & The Furriest® 2025
12:00 PM – 3:59 AM — Verona Street Animal Society — Registration fees apply — A celebration of pets with races, a festival, and a chance to support animals in need.
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