Rochester
Morning News
Monday, December 29th, 2025
Good morning, Rochester. Here's your local news at a glance for Monday, the 29th of December.
ACCIDENTS NEWS
- ➤ Residents at the Hilton East Assisted Living Facility were evacuated overnight after a water leak from rapid snowmelt and rain forced over 100 residents onto Quest Elementary School buses while the facility awaits repairs. News 10
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ George Eastman Museum is showcasing its annual Sweet Creations Gingerbread display with dozens of gingerbread houses and a new wreath area that boosts the holiday spirit—exhibits remain until Jan. 4 and include an online silent auction. ABC 13
- ➤ Charles 'Chuck' Brucato (Rochester Music Hall of Fame inductee as a member of The Rustix) passed away as his family announced his death on Facebook. He wrote jingles for local businesses, and his son said the loss will fuel his efforts to honor his father's music legacy. News 10
- ➤ Shawn Dowd captured 2025’s most memorable moments and celebrations in Rochester, from big sports wins and lively parades to cultural festivals that brought the community together. His photo series showcases a year full of local pride and vibrant events. Democrat & Chronicle
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ A powerful lake-effect winter storm will hit western and central New York today through Friday with 1 to 3 feet of snow and winds gusting up to 75 mph, causing dangerous travel conditions; residents should secure outdoor items and follow weather alerts — warnings span several counties. Democrat & Chronicle
- ➤ Ithaca-based GCI Energy is proposing the region’s first battery energy storage facility in Brighton—a 100-megawatt project near Lynch Woods Nature Park. A public hearing will resume Tuesday before the town board to review the proposal and its potential to fund local park and trail projects. WXXI News
- ➤ Monroe County officials remind residents that electronics, batteries, and other household items can be recycled at the ecopark today near 10 Avion Drive (in Chili) as the county expands the drive-through service to accept paper and plastic to-go cups to reduce landfill waste. WXXI News
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Two locals shared their flu struggles this week, with one managing symptoms at home and the other requiring hospital care. State officials reported over 71,000 cases and urged residents to get vaccinated (protecting against multiple strains) to lessen severe symptoms. FOX Rochester
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ The Bills played the Eagles on Sunday at 4:25 p.m. ET at Highmark Stadium as they sought to secure a wild-card spot and bolster their AFC East title hopes (local fans tuned in on FOX and local radio). Democrat & Chronicle
- ➤ A poll is live today inviting Rochester sports fans to vote on the best game-day atmosphere among seven local schools and venues including Rochester War Memorial and Penfield. Voting will close at 8 p.m. on Dec. 31 — the winner will be announced on Jan. 2. Democrat & Chronicle
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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.
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G. Love and Special Sauce Live
7:00-8:30 p.m. — Rose Marie and John Beston Hall — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of alternative hip-hop vibes from this Philadelphia band inspired by the Beastie Boys.
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School of Rock Seasonal Show: New Wave, Classic Metal, and Pop Legends
5-7:30 p.m. — Lovin' Cup — Free entry — Experience a vibrant showcase of talented young musicians performing classic rock anthems and modern hits.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
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No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
The best art divides the audience.
~ Rick Rubin
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