Rochester
Morning News
Friday, October 3rd, 2025
Good morning, Rochester. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 3rd of October.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Today, Seneca Park Zoo displays five rare species—an endangered golden frog that communicates by waving its arms, a sensitive red panda that mainly eats bamboo, critically endangered African penguins that run together when frightened, a near-threatened white rhino that grazes on grass, and vulnerable Masai giraffes that enjoy tree branches for food. Democrat & Chronicle
- ➤ The 8th annual News10NBC Toys for Tots Holiday Drive is underway in Rochester, with donation boxes set up for new, unwrapped toys for children—from newborns to age 16—until Sunday, Dec. 14. The drive aims to collect 125,000 toys for 58,000 kids, building on last year’s collection of 102,930 toys for 50,984 children. News 10
ACCIDENTS NEWS
- ➤ Six adults and four children lost their homes after a fire broke out at an apartment building on Lake Avenue near Emerson Street on Thursday—firefighters controlled the blaze in under half an hour while the Red Cross helped those affected. News 10
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Final preparations are underway for Boscov's first Western New York store at The Mall at Greece Ridge, which will open on Oct.30 and plans to hire 200 local workers after already hiring 160 & receiving 45 truckloads of inventory. CEO Jim Boscov said the store will offer a broad mix of classic and modern products with special departments like candy, toys, petite, and plus-size to meet varied customer needs. ABC 13
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ The replica boat Seneca Chief—celebrating the Erie Canal’s 200th anniversary—passed through our area on October 2nd as it traveled from Buffalo to New York City. The M&T Charitable Foundation and Buffalo Maritime Center provided details on its planned stops along the historic journey. ABC 13
- ➤ Fred Michael Beam presented his show Black Deaf Male: Who Am I? to challenge stereotypes about race, identity and deaf culture in Rochester—he said his performance broke barriers by urging people to recognize the challenges deaf performers face in the arts. Beam used his art to share a powerful message that went beyond entertainment. Spectrum News
- ➤ Several independent bookstores have opened in Rochester since the pandemic to offer unique spaces for reading and community activities — The Siren and the Sea, a bookstore-coffee shop hybrid in the South Wedge led by Jess Gale, is set to open this month and join a wave of local shops with niche selections and arts events. Rochester Beacon
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ October's Harvest Moon—both a supermoon and the traditional Harvest Moon—will peak Monday, Oct. 6 at 11:47 p.m. EDT with a Rochester moonrise at about 6:21 p.m., and stargazers can expect meteor showers on Oct. 8 and Oct. 21. Democrat & Chronicle
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Foodlink said on Facebook that despite the government shutdown, Rochester residents will continue to get SNAP, WIC and school meal benefits at least through October+ officials warn that if the shutdown lasts longer, the future of SNAP benefits is uncertain. They urged anyone needing food help to call 211 for a nearby pantry+ the nonprofit is closely watching the situation. News 10
- ➤ Randy Simons, the head of the state parks office, said the proposed High Falls State Park in Rochester is planned to open in two or three years and will have trails, pavilions, and easy walking paths—designed to join downtown workers, families, and nearby neighborhoods. The park will also include historical displays and safety features to connect the High Falls and El Camino areas along the Genesee River. Democrat & Chronicle
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Dr. William Valenti, a co-founder of Trillium Health Centers who helped guide our early HIV/AIDS response, stepped down from his role on October 2nd after decades of service—earning recognition both nationally and locally. Trillium will celebrate his career on Dec. 11 as he continues serving on community boards. WXXI News
LIFESTYLE NEWS
- ➤ Lollypop Farm is lowering its dog adoption fees throughout October in honor of Adopt-A-Dog Month—dogs between 7 months and 6 years old are 50% off while fees are waived for older dogs, and walk-ins are accepted Monday through Friday with appointments required on weekends at the shelter on Victor Road in Fairport. News 10
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Bills safety Cole Bishop made a key interception in last week's win over New Orleans—his improvement boosts the team’s top pass defense and sets a strong tone for the upcoming game against the Patriots. Democrat & Chronicle
-
Terrapin Flyer Tribute Concert
7 p.m. — JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER — $34-$44 — Experience the authentic sounds of the ultimate Grateful Dead tribute band with a dedicated following.
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Bonsai Presentation by Mark Arpag
7-8 p.m. — The Webster Arboretum — Free entry — Discover the art of Bonsai with award-winning artist Mark Arpag, President of the Bonsai Society of Upstate New York.
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Think X - An Exploration of the Music of Pink Floyd
7-9:30 p.m. — Montage Music Hall — $39.93 - $89.64 — Immerse in the iconic sounds of Pink Floyd complemented by special guest King Youngblood.
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Clue: A Murder Mystery Show
7:30-9 p.m. — West Herr Auditorium Theatre / RBTL — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a hilarious and suspenseful evening based on the iconic board game and cult classic film.
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No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Every action you take is a vote for the type of person you wish to become.
~ James Clear
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