Good morning, Rochester.

Hundreds gathered at Blue Cross Arena on July 15 to honor Fire Lt. John Joseph, who died on July 7 after battling cancer; friends and colleagues remembered his work on Engine 5 and his adventurous spirit in skydiving, skiing, and scuba diving (his smile lifted spirits).

Honor Flight Rochester is inviting veterans (those who served between 1975 and 1989) to apply for upcoming Honor Flight missions that offer an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C.

Veterans can apply online or by mail.

A federal program will invest $15 million from the National Science Foundation + $16 million from state funds into the STELLAR Engine to develop Rochester’s laser innovation hub over the next few years.

More than 90 local groups including UR and RIT will collaborate on the project.

The House honored former Nazareth University president Dr. Beth Paul on Wednesday, July 15 for her six-year leadership during the global pandemic as she guided the school through major changes and a centennial celebration.

Nazareth has named Maureen Finney its 11th president.

Harmful algae blooms have appeared on Conesus Lake and nearby waters, prompting the DEC to advise locals to avoid any contact while noting that warm, calm water and high nutrient levels contribute to their growth + the DEC’s map tracks sightings of blooms on regional lakes.

Today, wildfire smoke from Canada is lowering air quality and affecting local birds' behavior.

Cornell Lab of Ornithology researcher Olivia Sanderfoot advises residents to help birds by offering fresh water — and turning off outdoor lights during migration.

The state issued an air quality advisory for Western New York and the Finger Lakes on Wednesday because of wildfire smoke from Canada; a cold front may bring the smoke down and worsen air quality for sensitive groups (those with heart or lung issues) in the coming days.

Monroe County Executive Bello announced a public survey on Wednesday to see if Rochester travelers would back a nonstop flight to San Juan—citing the city’s large Puerto Rican community.

The survey is available in both English and Spanish.

Extreme heat from a heat dome is raising temperatures 30-degrees above normal in New York, and local experts urge residents, including those in Rochester, to stay hydrated, seek shade and use sunscreen as the wave continues through the weekend.

Monroe County officials advise residents to limit outdoor activity as wildfire smoke lowers air quality today, with forecasts showing unhealthy levels.

The county's Public Health and Emergency Management offices will monitor conditions and review facility operations as needed.

USA Today named Dogtown one of the best hot dog spots in the country on Wednesday, July 15.

The long-time eatery in Rochester, favored for 20 years, serves 18 unique recipes made with Zweigle’s franks to delight local food lovers.

RPO Presents The Music of Led Zeppelin

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Kodak Center — Check website for ticket prices — Experience a thrilling fusion of symphonic power and iconic rock anthems.

Expressive Painting Workshop

2-4 p.m. — Wonderground — Sliding scale $15-$30 — Engage in a creative paint workshop that embraces exploration and joyful discoveries.

Rochester Speed Dating for Singles Aged 35-47

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Kin Event Space — Ticket required — Meet up to 12 potential matches in an exciting speed dating format.

Nektar Concert

8-11 p.m. — Lovin' Cup — $35-$40 — Experience an immersive concert with Nektar blending sound, lights, and visuals.

The 7th Annual Black Culture Festival

July 26–27 — Parcel 5 — Free entry — Celebrate Black culture with music, food, vendors, and entertainment reminiscent of HBCU homecoming vibes.

Start Making Sense Concert

6:00-7:30 p.m. — Martin Luther King Jr Memorial Park at Manhattan Square — Ticket details available online — Enjoy an evening of lively music in a vibrant setting.

The Emo Night Tour - Rochester

8-11 p.m. — Water Street Music Hall — $20 - $27 — Experience a night filled with the best hits from iconic emo bands like Taking Back Sunday and My Chemical Romance.

Tryst @ Roc Beer Park

Time TBA — Rochester Beer & Park — Cost Info Not Provided — The Tryst boys deliver a mix of your favorite rock, classic, country, and pop tunes this summer.