Good morning, Rochester.

Feeding America reported that nearly 10,000 more people in Foodlink areas experienced food insecurity in 2023 than in 2022, with 13% of Monroe County residents affected.

Foodlink and the Rochester Hope food pantry are stepping in to aid those in need, and the 14605 area shows a 31.7% rate—highlighting rising challenges in our community.

Rochester-based QED announced an $18 million expansion at its University Avenue facility that will add up to 20,000 square feet for a new research and development center focused on next-generation tools and processes.

The $18.7 million project will create over 70 jobs and is expected to be completed by the end-of-year.

The University of Rochester School of Nursing announced a partnership with the state to ease costs for eligible accelerated nursing students through the Career Pathways Training Program — 72 students received stethoscopes at orientation — and graduates will commit to three years in underserved settings to help meet the need for 40,000 nurses by 2030.

Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School, a 206-year-old institution, relocated yesterday to the historic Sibley Building in downtown Rochester to serve as a center for education and public life amid the area's revitalization—marking a new chapter for the school.

Monroe County voters will cast ballots on Tuesday, May 20 to elect school board members and vote on district budgets across areas including Brighton, Brockport, Churchville-Chili, East Irondequoit, East Rochester, Fairport, Gates Chili, Greece, Hilton, Honeoye Falls-Lima and Penfield. The ballots include proposals on tax levy increases—ranging from minor rate adjustments to capital reserve projects—and candidates' selections with early and absentee voting available at designated polling sites.

Professional and clinical workers at UR Medicine Home reached a tentative three-year deal on Tuesday and postponed their planned five-day strike from May 18-22 pending ratification, while groups represented by 1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East said the agreement addresses demands for reasonable patient caseloads and affordable health insurance+ the deal now awaits formal approval.

Rochester residents using injectable weight loss drugs such as Ozempic and Wegovy can safely dispose of needles by placing them in a sturdy, leak-proof container and labeling it.

They can drop it off at local hospitals, nursing homes, or the Monroe County Eco Park (open Wednesdays from 1 to 6:30 p.m. and Saturdays from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.) per state guidelines.

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.