Good morning, Rochester.

On Saturday, more than 800 kids ages 1 to 11 got gifts and spent time with Santa at East High School during the annual holiday toy giveaway held by the Roc Royal Foundation.

The event grew from just 25 children in its first year to meet a growing need during the season.

Last month, an executive order to boost support for foster youth was announced, though local groups like Hope 585 in Rochester worry it doesn't add funding for key mentoring.

Nineteen-year-old Elias Gatgens will age out in February but plans to study psychology and live independently.

The American Legion Post #282 in West Bloomfield marked its one-year anniversary yesterday when it celebrated a gaming program—first of its kind in New York—designed to support veteran crisis prevention and wellness training, having raised $20,000 to launch the initiative.

Drivers preparing for heavy travel today are urged by Paul Marone of East Avenue Auto Repair to check their car's engine light, antifreeze, windshield washer, and tires—using a penny test to see if the tires have enough tread—for a safe holiday trip.

This advice comes as travel surges ahead of the festive weekend.

Amazon opened its first same-day delivery facility in Pembroke to serve Buffalo & Rochester communities ahead of the busy holiday season, creating over 100 local jobs as seasonal hiring statewide grows.

Eastview Mall is offering holiday hours and gift wrapping booths ahead of Christmas week.

The mall will be open Monday, Dec. 22 to Sunday, Dec. 28 with varied schedules and gift wrapping available behind Santa (Dec. 6 to 24) and at Macy’s (Dec. 13 to 23).

Mayor Malik D. Evans hosted the Mentor Up Winter Gala this evening at Arbor Loft — nearly 150 youth mentees and mentors connected to network and explore career paths.

Rochester youth and role models will gather again at the Mentor Up Summer Soirée on Saturday, July 25.

The Brockport Police Department announced Friday the passing of K9 Officer Brock, who served in narcotics detection, tracking, officer protection, and evidence recovery from his tour starting in March 2017 until his retirement in September (born Jan.

13, 2016).

The Buffalo Sabres announced Saturday that Jason Karmanos — the team's associate general manager and Rochester Americans GM — has been relieved of his duties after five seasons with the organization.

The move follows the promotion of Jarmo Kekalainen as the new general manager.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.