Rochester
Morning News
Friday, December 19th, 2025
Good morning, Rochester. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 19th of December.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ 8-year-old Grayson Roth dropped off 358 Lego kits at Golisano Children's Hospital Thursday afternoon — his donation honored the care he once received during an MRI. Family, friends, and teammates helped him collect the Legos to bring joy to other children. ABC 13
- ➤ Renaissance Academy Charter School of the Arts held its annual toy and book drive for 75 families facing economic challenges last Wednesday, with community partners donating items including 130 plushies (added to gift bags with wrap and bows) to spread holiday cheer; the drive continued on Thursday. News 10
- ➤ Sixth grader Pierson Farina received a custom recycling cart Wednesday from waste equip + Toter + Casella for his YouTube channel Returns for Reason, which collects bottles and cans to benefit local causes. ABC 13
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Ace Hardware is easing holiday stress with last-minute finds and a Ready in 15 service for online and in-store pickups—offering flexible payment options and special perks for Ace Rewards members until Christmas Eve. Orders placed at least 30 minutes before closing get same-day pickup or DoorDash delivery. Democrat & Chronicle
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ A Hilton house on Bailey Road has become a winter wonderland with a dazzling light display by Susan King since 2019. Today, visitors can see the show until 9 p.m. while funds raised support St. Paul Lutheran & Anchor Baptist churches. News 10
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ A report released Thursday shows that one in 14 Rochester jobs is tied to the University of Rochester, which generated a statewide impact of $13 billion based on 2024 data—UR is the region's largest private employer with 39,000 workers. Rochester Beacon
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Recent federal policy changes have added uncertainty to research funding at the University of Rochester, where over half of last fiscal year's $522+ million came from federal grants. Researchers are now seeking alternative sources and caution that delays in grant awards could slow key breakthroughs. Rochester Beacon
- ➤ On Wednesday, two students at RCSD’s John Williams School No. 5 were sworn in as class presidents (administered by Mayor Malik Evans) during a Pillars of Hope ceremony. The new leaders shared creative plans to boost classroom participation and refine discipline among their peers. News 10
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Governor Hochul is signing the Medical Aid in Dying Act today to let terminally ill New Yorkers request medical help to end their lives. The law (which needs three doctors’ approval, a mental health evaluation, and a five-day waiting period) takes effect in six months. NewsRadio WHAM
- ➤ Rochester City School District installed cameras on its school buses in September to track drivers who pass stopped buses. Fines of $250 will be issued starting early January (warnings have been given so far) to keep children safe. ABC 13
- ➤ A state Assembly hearing in Albany examined AI's impact on work as Labor Committee Chair Harry Bronson noted a MIT report found 20% of tasks could be affected and union leader Sam Wheeler called for safeguards to protect workers. Lawmakers are exploring ways to boost innovation while securing jobs. WXXI News
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Some nasal sprays made by MediNatura New Mexico, Inc. are being recalled nationwide for possible microbial contamination; local customers should return ReBoost and ClearLife products for a refund as the risk mainly affects immunocompromised people. No cases of illness have been reported. News 10
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Pittsford Schools hosts its 25th Anniversary Rainbow Classic today at 6pm at the University of Rochester Gymnasium + the long-running game unites the community and benefits Golisano Children's Hospital. ABC 13
- ➤ Mia DeMinck (over 3,000 votes) and Lucas Grizzanti (over 7,000 votes) were named Section V Athletes of the Week for December 8-14. DeMinck recorded 21 points and 14 rebounds, and Grizzanti led his team to a shutout win with three goals, with the honors presented by Faber Builders. Democrat & Chronicle
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Candlelight Christmas Carols on Strings
7-7:59 p.m. — Temple Theater — Ticketed event — Experience the magic of Christmas Carols performed by a string quartet under candlelight.
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3HB's Ugly Sweater Party
7-10:30 p.m. — Three Heads Brewing — $10 entry — Groove to funky tunes at a jam-filled ugly sweater extravaganza with local band Calabash.
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Cleveland Monsters vs. Rochester Americans
5:05-6:35 p.m. — Blue Cross Arena — Check for ticket prices — Watch the exciting matchup as the Monsters take on the Americans on the ice.
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The Turbulents Concert
5:00-6:30 p.m. — Photo City Music Hall — Ticket prices vary — Experience live performances by The Turbulents and other featured artists in Rochester.
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Live Music with Brody Schenk
7 PM - 1 AM — Abilene Bar and Lounge — $10 at the Door — Experience the heartfelt melodies and storytelling of rising singer-songwriter Brody Schenk.
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Afterglow - Neon Noir New Year’s Eve Party 2026
8:30 p.m. – 1:00 a.m. — The Strathallan Rochester Hotel & Spa — $115+ — Ring in 2026 with a Neon Glow at this festive New Year’s Eve celebration featuring an open bar and live DJs.
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The Dinner Detective: True Crime Murder Mystery Dinner Show
6 PM — RIT Inn & Conference Center — Ticket prices vary — Participate in solving a hilarious true crime murder mystery while enjoying dinner.
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Coming Down, Jordan Moss, The Rogues Concert
9 PM - 11:55 PM — Bug Jar — Tickets starting at $6.65 — Experience an eclectic mix of punk and indie rock performances in a local favorite venue.
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In the Zone Card Show
Mall hours — In The Zone — Free entry — Explore a wide variety of cards at this exciting two-day event perfect for collectors.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
I am not afraid of storms, for I am learning how to sail my ship.
~ Louisa May Alcott
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