Good morning, Rochester.

Frederick Douglass R-Center at 999 South Ave reopened today after kitchen renovations — restoring full access to its fitness and game rooms.

The facility now offers summer programs such as crafting, STEM lab, and open gym sessions for kids and adults.

Ontario Beach Park is extending its hours Tuesday through Thursday due to forecasted high heat—swimming is available 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and the spray park 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., subject to daily water quality testing by officials.

L3Harris Technologies has been awarded a NASA contract (a three-year fixed-price agreement) to develop key technologies that will enhance thermal and optical stability for the Habitable Worlds Observatory in Rochester.

The project will support NASA’s mission to study habitable planets beyond our solar system.

The RPO begins its July series on July 2 at Marvin Sands Drive in Hopewell.

Concerts through July will offer ticketed and free outdoor events featuring American tunes + fireworks displays, giving Rochester audiences many music choices in local parks and venues.

New York will celebrate Independence Day with fireworks displays set across the state + Rochester’s downtown show on the Genesee River scheduled for 10 p.m. on July 4, marking America’s 250th anniversary with events in major cities like New York City and Niagara Falls.

New York utilities offered free energy-tracking tools and financial help to keep electric bills lower as dangerous heat pushed temperatures into triple digits this week.

Residents can sign up for text or email alerts via NYSEG and RG&E to monitor consumption (Budget Billing spreads costs evenly).

Today, the YMCA of Greater Rochester secured a five-million-dollar state grant to expand its childcare program capacity.

The funding is part of a 106-million-dollar state effort supporting 37 childcare projects aimed at increasing licensed provider availability and modernizing facilities.

New York Forest Rangers and State Police Aviation crews practiced helicopter bucket drops in Greece on June 6 to prepare for wildland firefighting using collapsible Bambi Buckets that hold between 240 and 660 gallons.

The training sharpened crew skills ahead of wildfire season.

Today marks the start of Disability Pride Month while a DOJ memo challenges disabled rights to community living.

Local officials reaffirm that no service changes will occur, though activists and state agencies urge continued oversight + stronger support for disabled New Yorkers.

High heat can lead to heatstroke in pets today as rapid breathing, heavy drooling, and disorientation signal risk.

Residents are advised to keep animals cool by staying indoors, hydrating them, and checking for symptoms (such as bright red gums) while consulting a vet if needed.

A new searchable database lets residents view New York home sales dating back to 2004 — the tool helps homebuyers and homeowners in Rochester track pricing trends with monthly updates.

NNB - The Party Rock Experience at the 4th of July Celebration

11 a.m.-8 p.m. — Irondequoit Town Hall — Shuttle service $1 — Celebrate Independence Day with family fun, food trucks, and fireworks.

Slow Jamz R&B Celebration

3-9 p.m. — Martin Luther King Jr Memorial Park — Ticketed event — Enjoy an unforgettable outdoor R&B day party with food, drinks, and your favorite hits.

Rochester Speed Dating for Singles in Their 30s and 40s

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Eagle Vale Golf Club — Ticket required — Connect with up to 12 potential matches in a fun and friendly environment.

Yoga in Washington Square

5:30 – 6:30 PM — Washington Square Park — Free entry — Engage in a fun Vinyasa yoga class that emphasizes movement, breath, and balance in a beautiful outdoor setting.

The Seven Wonders Concert Series

6:00 – 10:00 p.m. — Martin Luther King Jr Memorial Park at Manhattan Square — $7 entry — Enjoy a vibrant mix of music every Thursday night this summer in Rochester's concert series.

FJ Tribute Concert

7-11 p.m. — Louis S. Wolk JCC of Greater Rochester — Tickets now on sale — Experience the music of Foreigner, Journey, and classic rock legends.

Rochester Anime-Fest

10 AM - 5 PM — RIT Inn & Conference Center — Exhibitor fees apply — A vibrant celebration of anime culture with collectibles, industry professionals, and fandom fun.

Nail Bite & Strange Culture Concert

6-9 p.m. — Photo City Music Hall — Get your tickets online — Heavy metal with genre-defying creativity takes the stage in Rochester.

Charlie Parr Live Performance

Time TBA — Bop Shop Records — $30 — Experience the heartfelt folk and blues sounds of Charlie Parr, a modern troubadour with deep roots in tradition.

Maplewood Rose Garden Concert Series

6:30 – 7:30 p.m. — Maplewood Rose Garden — Free entry — Enjoy intimate performances in a beautiful park setting as the Rochester City Parks Series returns.