Person Centered Housing Options: Helping the homeless find peace
To better fulfill its mission of Housing First, PCHO renovates a downtown warehouse, but funding still needed
Bello signs bill creating six majority-Black legislative districts in Rochester
County Executive Adam Bello added his signature to the deal immediately after a legally required public hearing.
Growl Bear’s “The Dream” is charming Americana
Under the name Growl Bear, singer-songwriter Jeremy Button strings together 11 folksy vignettes into an endearing collection of Americana.
Best Smoothies/Juices: Just Juice 4 Life
Health-minded customers order power tonics, smoothies, and juice flights at the counter, or choose from the juices and fermented items in the grab-and-go coolers. A set of juices ideal for a cleanse can be custom ordered.
Best Yoga Studio: Breathe Yoga & Juice Bar
Breathe Yoga offers guided yoga and meditation classes for beginners through advanced practitioners, both in person and online.
Best Coffee: Ugly Duck Coffee
Ugly Duck began in 2015 as a pop-up espresso bar but has since grown into a popular brick-and-mortar coffee shop where you can get everything from an excellent cup of plain black coffee to The Snug.
Best Barista: Rory Van Grol (Ugly Duck)
A hardcore punk vocalist-turned caffeine purveyor, Rory Van Grol is one of those seminal Rochester characters that makes the city special, and is as much a conversationalist as he is a barista.
Best Family-Friendly Attraction: The Strong National Museum of Play
Consistently ranked atop the list of Rochester’s tourist attractions, The Strong, as the museum wants to be known, is a wonderland for kids and kids-at-heart.
Best Cross-country Skiing: Mendon Ponds Park
Mendon Ponds Park is gorgeous year-round, but the 2,500-acre park is downright magical when it’s covered in a fresh coat of snow.
Best Actor: Penny Sterling
Penny Sterling burst onto the local performing arts scene in 2016 with “A Spy in the House of Men: A One-Woman Show With Balls,” recounting her decades-long journey of transitioning from a man to a woman.
Best Photographer: Jim Montanus
Photography is in the blood of this perennial “Best of Rochester” winner, who is perhaps best known for his images of area landscapes.
Best Restaurant for Desserts: Phillip’s European
No need to save room, just go straight for the desserts at Phillips European.
Best Outdoor Swimming: Hamlin Beach State Park
Day trips to Hamlin Beach have been a summertime staple for generations of local families.
Best Local Television Personality: WHAM 13’s Scott Hetsko
Meteorologist Scott Hetsko is an affable guy who has endeared himself to viewers across the region with his upbeat and trustworthy delivery of all things weather.
Best Public Golf Course: Durand Eastman
Durand Eastman Park Golf Course’s undulating landscapes, tree-lined fairways, and creeks and ponds are no walk in the park (although playing the course literally is).
Best Social Media Account: The InnerLoop Blog
The Innerloop Blog bills itself as “Rochester’s #1 source for fake news.” Our readers agree.
Best Public Tennis Courts: Cobbs Hill Park
The six tennis courts, which were renovated with upgraded lighting in 2013, are some of the most used among the three dozen or so in the city. Getting on a court, especially early on a pleasant summer morning, often requires a wait time.
Best Fish Fry: Captain Jim’s
Captain Jim’s is one of those unassuming hole-in-the-walls where you just know the food has to be great.
Best Vegetarian/Vegan Restaurant: The Red Fern
Andrea Parros opened The Red Fern in September 2013 and the restaurant’s menu of vegan comfort food was a quick hit. Its popularity has only grown since.
Best Theater Company: Geva Theatre Center
Rochester has a lot of good theater, and not just “for a city of its size.” But Geva Theatre Center is in a league of its own.
Best Bar: ROAR
There’s a neon sign over the door at ROAR: “A DJ and a Drag Queen Walk Into a Bar.” It’s the premise for Rochester’s reigning gay-owned nightclub, which scooped up six “Best of Rochester” awards.
Best Restaurant to Dine Alone: Highland Park Diner
Housed inside the iconic 1948 dining-car at the corner of South Goodman Street and South Clinton Avenue, the Highland transports diners back in time.
Best Local Radio Personality: Evan Dawson
Evan Dawson elevated the “Connections” brand at WXXI News when he took over as host of the afternoon radio talk show in 2014
Best Beer Selection (Store): Beers of the World
Beers of the World is a shop whose name speaks for itself. Whether your tastes lie in the Costa Rican mainstay Pilsen or a Russian Imperial Stout from Saint Petersburg’s Baltika Brewing, there’s a little something for everyone here.
Best Haircut: Gallery Salon
Founded and owned by stylist Erika Sorbello, Gallery Salon has more than a dozen stylists, nail artists, and makeup artists offering a dizzying array of beauty services.
Best Bartender: Tony Hayward (Lux Lounge)
In the 15 years that Tony Hayward has tended bar at Lux, he has become an essential and beloved part of the community there, providing not only great service but also fostering a safe space to unwind.
Best Late-night Eats: Dogtown
Dogtown, the beloved hot dog shack in the heart of Monroe Avenue, has become a local institution since its opening in 2006.
Best Food Truck: Le Petit Poutine
Known as founders of Rochester’s food truck scene, Le Petit Poutine serves its classic Canadian combination of fries, gravy, and cheese curds with a sprinkling of thyme to thousands of hungry customers every year.
Best Wings: Jeremiah’s Tavern
Jeremiah’s knows what makes a wing a winner.
Best Art Gallery: Memorial Art Gallery
Visiting the Memorial Art Gallery of the University of Rochester, better known by its nickname “The MAG,” means journeying through 5,000 years of art history.
Best Music Festival: Rochester International Jazz Festival
This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Rochester International Jazz Festival, which promises 325 shows spread across nine stages.
Best Blues Artist or Group: Danielle Ponder
It’s easy to make the case that R&B-soul artist Danielle Ponder won 2022 — and not just because she won five “Best of Rochester” categories.
Best Bowling: Radio Social
This pristine playground-for-adults is fit with 34 lanes of bowling alongside astro-turfed space for corn hole and giant Jenga.
Best Music Teacher: Ben & Katie Morey, The Submarine School of Music
Husband-and-wife team Ben and Katie Morey created the music ed hub in 2018, and it has quickly expanded .
Best Pet-related Business: Bones Dog Bakery
Bones owner Dani Fischer wants her bakery to be a place where people and their pups can spend time together and the focus is on the dogs.
Best Plate: Dogtown
Dogtown, the beloved hot dog shack in the heart of Monroe Avenue, has become a local institution since its opening in 2006.
Best Fishing Hole: Irondequoit Bay
Irondequoit Bay is home to varying aqueous environments where you can nab everything from channel catfish to walleye, perch, and bass.
Best Day Hike: Letchworth State Park
The views of the “Grand Canyon of the East” from the high points of the Gorge Trail are truly awe-inspiring and humbling.
Best Solo Musician: Danielle Ponder
It’s easy to make the case that R&B-soul artist Danielle Ponder won 2022 — and not just because she won five “Best of Rochester” categories.
Best Drag Performer: Dee Dee Dubois
After 24 years on Rochester’s stages, DeeDee Dubois has moved from a “Best of Rochester” runner-up in this category to top queen.
Best Karaoke: ROAR
There’s a neon sign over the door at ROAR: “A DJ and a Drag Queen Walk Into a Bar.” It’s the premise for Rochester’s reigning gay-owned nightclub, which scooped up six “Best of Rochester” awards.
Best Ribs: Dinosaur Bar-B-Que
Dinosaur serves its ribs St. Louis style, which means they’re flat, fatty, sweet, and juicy.
Best Burger: Good Luck
A rite of passage for any local and visiting foodie, the Good Luck Burger is an achievement in its simplistic perfection.
Best Caterer: The Meatball Truck
The Meatball Truck is a celebration of this simple, rustic, and elegant ground-meat dish.
Best Craft Brewery: Three Heads Brewing
The brainchild of three of the most distinctively Rochester characters you can find, Three Heads broke into the Rochester craft beer scene in the early 2010’s with its flagship The Kind.
Best Beer Selection (Bar or Restaurant): Rochester Beer Park
Rochester Beer Park features over 60 beers on tap, about half of them held under the craft umbrella.
Best Deli Sandwich or Sub: DiBella’s Old Fashioned Submarines
Subs are the focus, and the rolls are one reason DiBella’s remains so beloved.
Best Bike Shop: Full Moon Vista and Towpath
Great bike shops don’t just sell bikes. They’re run by a knowledgeable staff of cycling enthusiasts who build community with classes and host events to get people rolling.
Best Media Outlet (Other Than Us, Of Course):13 WHAM
WHAM-TV (Channel 13) has been the dominant local news affiliate for the better part of 40 years.
Best Artist: Shawn Dunwoody
Shawn Dunwoody needs no introduction. The prolific muralist and all-around creative is widely considered the face of the city’s art scene.
Best Trivia Night: ROAR
There’s a neon sign over the door at ROAR: “A DJ and a Drag Queen Walk Into a Bar.” It’s the premise for Rochester’s reigning gay-owned nightclub, which scooped up six “Best of Rochester” awards.
Best Mexican Restaurant: Neno’s
Tacos are where to start at Neno’s, but you’ll be back for more.
Best Wedding Venue: Pomona at Blue Barn
Jill and Jeremy Wolf built the wedding and private events venue in Hilton when they wanted to get married in a barn but couldn’t find one that checked all their boxes.
Best Place to Play Pool: Dicky’s Corner Pub
What makes playing pool at Dicky’s Corner Pub is the all-around laidback vibe around the well-worn table.
Best Place to Buy Kitsch: Parkleigh
Parkleigh began as a pharmacy at the corner of Park Avenue and Goodman Street in 1960 but became the castle of kitsch it is today in 1986.
Best Guided Tour: Mount Hope Cemetery
At Mount Hope Cemetery, the dead have a lot of tales to tell. Hearing them is best done with the aid of people who know the history the cemetery holds.
Best Biking Trail: Erie Canalway Trail
The Erie Canal has been called “the nation’s first superhighway.” It is only apropos that CITY readers recognize its namesake recreation trail as the best place to hop and bike and move.
Best of Rochester: Food
These are the places CITY readers head when they have a hankering for burgers, baked goods, and food of all kinds.
Best New Restaurant: Strangebird
Strangebird made waves in the local beer world upon its opening, but Chef Nate Stahl’s playful menu of innovative pub classics accompanies the brews.
Best Published Poet: Chen Chen
It’s fitting that Chen Chen is back, living in Rochester, the place where his career as a successful published poet first began to take off.
Best Pickup Bar: ROAR
There’s a neon sign over the door at ROAR: “A DJ and a Drag Queen Walk Into a Bar.” It’s the premise for Rochester’s reigning gay-owned nightclub, which scooped up six “Best of Rochester” awards.
Best Sushi: Plum House
Plum House has been a Monroe Avenue institution for nearly 20 years, and it has rightfully earned its place as Rochester’s premier sushi stop.
Best CBD Shop: Mad Hatter’s Hideaway
Mad Hatter’s in Irondequoit offers an impressive array of hemp, CBD, and cannabis products, a mind-boggling selection of pipes, bongs, bubblers, and bowls, as well as boutique cigars and loose-leaf tobacco.
Best Bloody Mary: The Revelry
The Bloody Mary at The Revelry stands out as a sleek, simple cocktail crafted with careful attention to freshness and flavor.
Best Wine Selection (Store): Marketview Liquor
The moment you walk into the doors of Marketview Liquor, cases of wine piled chest high stare you down.
Best Sports Bar: Jeremiah’s Tavern
What goes great with Jeremiah’s award-winning wings? Watching football, of course. And baseball, and hockey, and soccer, and basketball, and anything that involves athletes running, jumping, and throwing things in ways impossible for us mere mortals.
Best Wine Selection (Bar or Restaurant): Apogee
The wine list at Apogee is carefully curated. Patrons won’t find a book of pages and pages listing vintage bottles that sit in a dusty cellar here.
Best Bridal Shop: Heart to Heart Bride
This bridal boutique in the heart of Webster prides itself on stocking the largest inventory from the wedding gown industry’s top designers and its own private collection.
Best Instrumentalist: Herb Smith
Trumpeter Herb Smith is as affable as he is stylistically versatile.
Best Arts Event: Rochester International Jazz Festival
For nine days in June, this international event draws an estimated 200,000 people to downtown Rochester. And yes, music is the draw.
Best LGBTQ+ Bar: ROAR
There’s a neon sign over the door at ROAR: “A DJ and a Drag Queen Walk Into a Bar.” It’s the premise for Rochester’s reigning gay-owned nightclub, which scooped up six “Best of Rochester” awards.
Best Sweets Bakery: Savoia Pastry Shoppe
Savoia has become well-known regionally for its wedding cakes and seasonal Italian tea cookies, but its pastries are the star of the show.
Best Weekend Getaway: Finger Lakes Region
With 11 pristine lakes nestled between breathtaking bucolic hillsides, waterfront hotels, world-class wineries and breweries at every turn, and dining options that range from fine to farm-to-table low-key, there’s plenty to love about the region.
Best Musical Instrument Store: House of Guitars
House of Guitars isn’t just a Rochester institution. It’s a national landmark of sorts for touring musicians.
Best Record Store: Record Archive
The Record Archive was founded in 1975 by one of the city’s unique characters, Richard Storms.
Best Day Trip with Kids: Seabreeze
Not so big that you can’t see and ride everything in a single visit, and not so small that you feel like you’re at the local fireman’s carnival.
Best Foot Race: Lilac Run
This 5k and 10k run kicks off the warm-weather running season.
Best Chinese Restaurant: Han Noodle
Han has been touting its tagline of “No Fusion, No Gimmicks” in Rochester for over a decade.
Best Outdoor Dining: Genesee Brew House
From their perch on the patio, diners can soak in a panorama of the historic High Falls District and the Rochester skyline.
Best Movie Theater: The Little
The Little Theatre is no mere art deco movie house, it’s a beloved icon of Rochester’s East End that has stood for more than 90 years.
Best Hip-Hop Artist or Group: Moses Rockwell
Moses Rockwell’s songs are observational. If he has an odd conversation or experience, he mines it for comedy and rhymes it in a song.
Best Jazz Artist or Group: Danielle Ponder
It’s easy to make the case that R&B-soul artist Danielle Ponder won 2022 — and not just because she won five “Best of Rochester” categories.
Best Winery: Living Roots
Living Roots makes a variety of wines from sparkling pet nats to a shiraz made from Australian grapes. The establishment is as popular for its wines as it is for its classes and tastings.
Best Chef: Margherita Smith aka The Saucey Chef
Margherita Smith calls her offerings, which include jerk shrimp pasta, adobo wings, and lasagna made with sweet plantain, “elevated street food.”
Best Barbecue: Dinosaur Bar-B-Que
You can’t go wrong with this award-winning menu rooted in the traditions of Southern barbecue and slathered in spices and sauces that give Dinosaur’s dishes their own flair.
Best Tobogganing: Cobbs Hill Park
Trudging down the slope of Cobbs Hill Park by foot is one way to get back to civilization. But in the winter, when snow blankets the ground, the hill is ideal for tobogganing.
Best Place to Go Dancing: ROAR
There’s a neon sign over the door at ROAR: “A DJ and a Drag Queen Walk Into a Bar.” It’s the premise for Rochester’s reigning gay-owned nightclub, which scooped up six “Best of Rochester” awards.
Best Car Detailing: Warren Buff-It
Warren Mapes details everything from McLarens and Porsches to minivans and SUVs and everything in between.
Best Pizza: Pizza Wizard
Specializing in Detroit-style pies, Pizza Wizard serves square pies that hit all the notes a native Michigander would look for and that Rochester obviously wants.
Best Live Music Venue (Large): CMAC
The large outdoor venues are where the most enticing summer shows are found, and CMAC is the best of them.
Best Ice Cream: Pittsford Farms Dairy
The Pittsford Farms Dairy was founded in 1888 and was once best known for its scientific agriculture and prize-winning Jersey cattle. Today, the dairy is best known for its delectable, made-from-scratch ice cream.
Best Thai Restaurant: The King & I
There’s no shortage of spots offering Thai cuisine in Rochester, but this year the mainstay The King & I wears the crown.
Best Calzone: Stromboli’s
Stromboli’s calzones are available in mini, 12-inch (small), and 16-inch (large) sizes. How much golden dough and melted cheese you can handle is up to you.
Best Fitness Service: YMCA of Greater Rochester
From personal training programs to childcare, camps, and classes for all ages and myriad interests, the 12 local Y branches probably have something for you.
Best Secondhand/Thrift Store: Greenovation
You can find anything at Greenovation, from vintage clothing to cookware, furniture, and knick-knacks.
Best Global Foods Market: Rubino’s Italian Food Market
Step into Rubino’s on any given day and you’ll be instantly greeted by the most pleasant ménage of scents this side of the Atlantic.
Best of Rochester: Drink
From Bloody Marys to teas, CITY readers know what places please . . .
Best Pick-up Basketball: Cobbs Hill Park
The Tony Boler Basketball Courts at Cobbs Hill Park draw some of the best street ballers in the city year-round.
Best Dive Bar: Lux Lounge
If Lux’s “Pabst Smear” — a $3 order of a can of Pabst Blue Ribbon and a well liquor shot of your choosing — doesn’t scream dive bar, we don’t know what does.
Best Film Festival: Rochester International Film Festival
Three days. Dozens of short films. The Rochester International Film Festival is a celebration of movie-making brevity.
Best Italian Restaurant: The Pasta Villa
Pasta Villa sets the bar for classic, Italian-American comfort food.
Best Corner Store: Bodega
Despite what its minimalist name might imply, Bodega aims to be more than a generic corner store.
Best Cidery: Schutt’s Apple Mill
Schutt’s Apple Mill has been making its crystal-clear and sweet apple cider the same way since Paul “Great Grandpa” Schutt opened the place in 1918.
Best of Rochester: Shopping and Services
Whether you’re looking for flowers, a haircut, or that special gift for a four-legged friend, CITY readers recommend . . .
Best Neighborhood Garden: 490 Farmers
Started in 2017 as a community garden with 10 plots and a shed, 490 Farmers’ space at Broadway and Meigs now has 55 plots for rent and more.
Best Bakery: Savoia Pastry Shoppe
Savoia has been a family-owned and operated neighborhood mainstay in the northeast corner of the city for nearly a century.
Best Cooking Class: Rochester Brainery
The Rochester Brainery, a community classroom and event space in the Neighborhood of the Arts, offers a wide variety of culinary courses with local chefs.
Best Restaurant: Good Luck
Good Luck specializes in rustic fusion dishes drawing influence from Italian, French, Japanese, and virtually every other culinary tradition under the sun
Best Band (Cover): Something Else
Sometimes you just want to hear the hits, let your hair down, and let your feet loose. Rock trio Something Else can help you get there.
Best Vocalist: Danielle Ponder
It’s easy to make the case that R&B-soul artist Danielle Ponder won 2022 — and not just because she won five “Best of Rochester” categories.
Best Mechanic: Browncroft Garage
One of the oldest auto mechanic shops in Rochester, Browncroft Garage has been in the same spot on Atlantic Avenue since before most American households had cars.
Best Place to Take a First Date: Swillburger
If your date doesn’t like this place, then find a new date, because there is no helping that person.
Best Bread Bakery: Amazing Grains
Many people know and love Amazing Grains for its “Salty Bread,” which sells out in a hurry at its store and others that carry it.
Best Local Sports Team: Rochester Red Wings
The oldest continuously-run minor-league team in professional sports, the Red Wings have been a major source of hometown pride since 1899.
Best Nonprofit Organization: Lollypop Farm
Lollypop Farm is best known for connecting adoptable creatures with loving caregivers.
Best Hotel: The Strathallan
The Strathallan, a DoubleTree Hotel by Hilton, has the bona fides to back up its self-proclaimed title of “Rochester’s premier boutique hotel.”
Best Museum: Strong Museum of Play
Many people think of museums as stodgy institutions where touching exhibits is off-limits and fun goes to die. The Strong National Museum of Play is the opposite.
Best Lunch Spot: Magnolia’s Deli & Cafe
Magnolia’s menu includes a robust selection of sandwiches and salads, with some soups as well pizza.
Best Country Artist or Group: Zac Brown Tribute Band
Live-music lovers know exactly what they’re getting with this good-vibin’ septet devoted to interpreting the songs of the Zac Brown Band.
Best Candy Shop: Stever’s
The candy business never goes out of style. Stever’s, purveyors of homemade chocolate and candies, is a testament to that.
Best Florist: Kittelberger
Everyone needs a florist at some point or another and Kittelberger in Webster has been a go-to for more than 90 years.
Best of Rochester: Recreation
From first dates to dancing and shooting hoops, CITY readers have the scoop . . .
Best Tea House: Tai Chi Bubble Tea
Founded in Henrietta, Tai-Chi is now a national chain. It first introduced Rochester to the sushi burrito, or sushirrito, a San Francisco-originated treat representing the sheer audacity of American cuisine.
Best Bar to Drink Alone: Lux Lounge
Drinking solo? There’s plenty to keep you entertained at this South Wedge watering hole.
Best Toy Store: Millennium Games
Millennium Games has been a cornerstone of hobby gaming in the region for 35 years
Best Bouncer: Lori Lippa (ROAR)
She’s an Avon makeup and skincare sales representative (yes, as in “Avon calling”) who moonlights as a bouncer at one of Rochester’s hottest nightclubs.
Best Published Author: Justin Murphy
Years of pulling thread on the troubled Rochester public school system led to D&C reporter Justin Murphy publishing his first book.
Best Dance Company: Garth Fagan Dance
The world-renowned dance company is known for captivating audiences with dazzling choreography.
Best Spa: The Spa at the Del Monte
This upscale spa located within the DelMonte Lodge offers a full menu of treatments from massages and manicures to body scrubs, as well as haircuts and color, of course.
Best Cocktails: Restaurant Good Luck
Good Luck is known for its inventive and flavorful cocktails as much as its food.
Best Outdoor Ice Skating: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Park
There were once several outdoor rinks in the area, but of those that remain, the kidney-shaped ice surface at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Park is a gem.
Best Dog Park: Ellison Park Dog Park
Like their humans, dogs need exercise, mental stimulation, and to socialize, all of which a romp at this dog park provides.
Best Doughnuts: Ridge Donuts
Family-run for nearly four decades, Ridge Donut is in a class of its own when it comes to the fried pastries with the hole in the middle.
Best Housewares Store: Mayer Paint and Hardware
Mayer’s is about 5,000 square feet of hardware, power tools, paint, snowblowers, grills, and just about anything else anyone might need to get the job done.
Best of Rochester: Arts & Entertainment
Nightlife, music, theater, and art, CITY readers know them by heart . . .
Best Club DJ: Mighty Mic (ROAR)
With DJ Mighty Mic in charge, expect a fun evening with plenty of energy.
Best Mural or Public Art: Murals at MLK Jr. Memorial Park
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Park is a year-round artistic backdrop with the vibrant Roc Paint Division murals
Best Vintage Clothing Store: Little Shop of Hoarders
Little Shop of Hoarders is a well-curated shop that is packed with vintage finds, from blazers to shorts, shoes, and lingerie.
Best Camp for Kids: Rochester Museum and Science Center
Do your curious youngsters love building robots? Engineering forts? Learning wilderness skills? Rochester Museum and Science Center is for them.
Best Tattoo Parlor: Love Hate Tattoo
Love Hate Tattoo has been a fixture of the local body art industry for more that 20 years.
Best Shoe Store: Fleet Feet
The Fleet Feet stores in Rochester and in Victor have become the hub of the running community and a go-to for casual athletes looking to comfort their soles.
Best Comfort Food: Dogtown
Dogtown, the beloved hot dog shack in the heart of Monroe Avenue, has become a local institution since its opening in 2006.
Best Antique Shop/Dealer: The Shops on West Ridge
The Shops on West Ridge is actually a collection of some 200 smaller “shops” that sell all kinds of goodies from the distant and near past.
Best Distillery: Black Button Distilling
Founded in 2012, Black Button Distilling is the first grain-to-grass craft distillery to open in Rochester since the end of Prohibition, and it uses only locally-sourced ingredients.
Best Comedian/Comedy Troupe: Chris Thompson
Chris Thompson stomped into stand-up after being goaded by friends who liked his Facebook and Instagram quips.
Best Place to See Comedy: Comedy @ The Carlson
Finding a place to see solid standup in Rochester is no joke. Comedy @ The Carlson is an exception.
Best Band (Original): Danielle Ponder
It’s easy to make the case that R&B-soul artist Danielle Ponder won 2022 — and not just because she won five “Best of Rochester” categories.
Best Public Park: Highland Park
When readers selected Highland Park to win this category, they handed the victory to Rochester’s first public park.
Best Place to People Watch: Rochester Public Market
Consistently voted one of the best public markets in the country, the Rochester Public Market draws people from all walks of life.
Best Garden Center: Garden Factory
No nursery in the Rochester area comes even close to rivaling The Garden Factory in terms of size and scope.
Best Breakfast: The Original Steve’s Diner
A highlight of the fare at Original Steve’s is the variety of the diner’s famous hubcap-sized pancakes.
Best Stargazing Spot: Cobbs Hill Park
When the sun sets and the lights of the city are twinkling far below, there is nothing but darkness between the water and the heavens, making the elevated hilltop at Cobbs Hill Park the perfect spot to take in the night sky.
Best Farmers Market: Rochester Public Market
You’d be hard-pressed to not find exactly what you’re looking for, no matter how esoteric, in the Public Market’s wide array of fresh local produce, meats, dairy, eggs, and high-quality fresh seafood and imported goods.
Best Independent Bookseller: Lift Bridge Bookshop
Lift Bridge Bookshop in Brockport has two floors of current bestsellers, novels, books by local authors, magazines, and reference books to keep curious browsers busy for a while.
Best Live Music Venue (Small): The Bug Jar
Most live music fans in Rochester have a fond memory of the Bug Jar. Part live-music venue, part quasi-punk bar, the Bug Jar is a local gem.
Best Rock Artist or Group: Joywave
These homegrown rockers won this category by a ridiculously large margin and deservedly-so — even in a city blessed with many great bands.
Best Folk Artist or Group: The Honey Smugglers
You can call The Honey Smugglers an Americana band, or even a jamgrass group. CITY readers call the sextet Rochester’s best folk group.
Former Mayor Lovely Warren takes step to open law office
On Thursday, Mayor Lovely Warren filed paperwork showing intent to open a law office on Browncroft Boulevard.
Monroe County’s redistricting battle nears its end
The Legislature has passed a redistricting plan that County Executive Adam Bello intends to sign after a required public hearing.
Celebrate New Year’s Eve without the stress at these 10 restaurants
Looking for a New Year’s Eve nosh without the black-tie? Get your last supper of the year at one of these spots.
We asked these bar patrons for their best New Year’s Day hangover cures
CITY visits… Rochester’s most popular downtown bars.
Champagne(ish) tastes: 7 sparkling cocktails for New Year’s revelry
Rochester mixologists spill the secrets to their favorite bubbly-based drinks to float you through the holidays.
Rochester’s ‘Naughtiest and Nicest’ of 2022
Santa Claus has made a list of who’s been naughty and nice. We checked it twice.
Kwanzaa Time: What to know and how to celebrate
Know about the seven principles of Kwanzaa and how to celebrate.
Our 10 favorite Rochester albums of 2022
Rochester’s soul queen, a fun-loving jazz trio, and a blistering death metal band all made CITY’s 2022 playlist.
Wanna have Christmas dinner out? These restaurants are open.
These restaurants are open Christmas Eve or Christmas Day or both.
Rochester’s coziest cocktails — and where to find them
Mixologists spilled their secrets to their most comforting seasonal cocktail. Duck fat-washed Old Fashioned, anyone?
Live music on New Year’s Eve to satisfy every kind of listener
Ring in the new year on a high note, with live performances ranging from jam-band music and punk rock to the blues and Americana,.
Lawsuit accuses Bello of stalling County Legislature redistricting
The plaintiffs claim that County Executive Adam Bello wanted to remove the process of redrawing legislative districts from the Legislature.
Lighting up eight nights: Hanukkah events around Rochester
There is a literal “Festival of Lights” to ease the seasonal dreariness — the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah.
Bello’s $1.3 billion budget gets decisive approval from legislators
Monroe County legislators passed County Executive Adam Bello’s $1.3 billion budget late Tuesday with minimal debate and two minor changes.
Think outside the (big) box (stores) with these Rochester-themed gifts
They’re Rochester’s elves: creative local makers who work year-round for the holiday rush.
Hometown stocking stuffers that are perfect in a pinch
These Rochester-themed artworks, treats, and memberships are perfect in a pinch.
Blackfriars Theatre’s ‘Christmas at Pemberley’ is charming escapism
“Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley” is both earnest Jane Austen fan fiction and a light-hearted holiday escape.
25 Questions with Santa Claus
Mike Ihrig, of Penfield, is 473 years old, give or take 400 years, and has been the Big Guy for five decades.
PAB taps Sherry Walker-Cowart as new executive director
Sherry Walker-Cowart, a longtime figure in Rochester’s police oversight efforts, will serve as the interim executive director of the PAB.
The perfect Rochester gift for every hard-to-buy-for someone in your life
Welcome to the ultimate gift guide for every hard to buy-for someone in your life — with a Rochester twist.
Coalition calls on Hochul to boost Early Intervention provider pay
For 20 years, state lawmakers haven’t significantly raised reimbursement rates for providers working with children who have developmental delays.
Rochester eyes software that claims to predict police misconduct
Benchmark Analytics claims to have developed software that can foresee adverse interactions between officers and civilians.
MAG’s timely ‘In Praise of Trees’ is perfect for the holiday season
Woodcuts from Naoko Matsubara’s 1985 portfolio, now showing at the MAG, reflect on the physical and spiritual nature of trees.
Ryan Sutherland offers a rock history lesson on ‘Sutherland II’
Ryan Sutherland’s latest album is a musical think piece on Rust Belt decay that varies from acoustic musings to electric freak-outs.
Federal lawsuit filed over Monroe County Legislature redistricting stalemate
County Executive Adam Bello previously vetoed two redistricting proposals passed by the Legislature.
The Company Theatre makes its debut in Rochester theater scene
The newly formed theater troupe takes an inclusive, modern-day approach to Shakespeare, obscure classics, and more.
CITY’s Annual Ales Advent Calendar: 24 Bottles of Beer on the Wall
In the spirit of giving, we took on the arduous task of sampling dozens of local beers to find the 24 best for the season.
Activists, City Council members blast city for clearing Loomis St. encampment
Advocates condemned the city for sweeping an encampment on Loomis Street, while Judge Frank Geraci shot down an attempt to preserve it.
Rochester students talk about modern woes in new musical documentary
In “Generation Z,” soul musician-turned-filmmaker Joyce “Cinnamon” Jones takes a poignant look at the pandemic era from the perspectives of Rochester students.
Animal Sounds teases new album with the dark single ‘RED’
Animal Sounds’ sneaky good single “RED” may be a sign of a maturing indie rock sound on the forthcoming album “Labyrinth.”
LaMar doubles down with push for six majority-Black legislative districts in Monroe County
Legislature President Sabrina LaMar calls the plan “the most historic and empowering proposal to date” in the county’s redistricting process.
Brighten your holiday with this live music all around Rochester
From classical to early rock and jazz, here are six local shows that brighten the season.
City moves to clear homeless camp as fencing is built
The clearing of the Loomis Street homeless camp is said by the city to be temporary, while marking the first major action of the year.
Rochester’s Black artists call 9th Floor home
A new studio and gallery space in downtown Rochester has become a place for Black visual artists to learn, create, and be inspired.
Battle over Monroe County Public Defender appointment goes to court
A majority of legislators voted to appoint Julie Cianca as public defender, but a lawsuit argues the meeting where that happened was held illegally.
My family’s Thanksgiving dish to die for
Rochester chefs share the recipes that had them clamoring for more from the kids’ table.
RPO blazes new path with a world premiere and Brahms’s Requiem
The Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra’s Thursday performance boldly paired a world premiere by Derrick Skye with Brahms’s “A German Requiem.”
Bello rejects Monroe County Legislature’s redistricting plan
The veto was expected and will likely spark a lawsuit by the plan’s supporters.
Conor Reynolds ousted as Police Accountability Board head
The Police Accountability Board removed Reynolds late Thursday and authorized a search for his replacement.
Irondequoit crossing guard fired after comments about women making coffee
Joe Paladino Sr. said he makes no apologies for speaking his mind.
Attorneys to city: Sack the suspended PAB director
The nearly 100 page report substantiated four claims against Reynolds, and called for his termination.
City Council approves $200,000 for public art
The legislation represents the first allocations in years from the city’s “percent-for-art” fund.
Gadd, Fleming, and Puts are among Eastman alums with ’23 Grammy nominations
The 65th Grammy Awards nominations are out, and former Eastman School of Music students are major contenders once again.
Runaway Blue brings first brewery to Newark
Runaway Blue is Newark’s first brewery, pumping out small batches of skillfully made brews.
These 5 Rochester musicians are getting monthly stipends from grassroots donors
The Local Sound Collaborative is giving five area musicians a monthly stipend for a year. Here’s how each musician plans to use the funds.
Police Accountability Board bleeds more staff
A City Council member integral to forming the PAB says unionizing is the only way to save the agency.
David Merulla’s Autumn in Halifax chooses simple songwriting over excess
Autumn in Halifax makes solitary, vulnerable folk music that eschews recent indie trends in favor of straightforward songwriting.
Poetry and pistols
Is the pen mightier than the gun? Poet Matt Donovan finds out in “The Dug-up Gun Museum.”
Frida Kahlo: the making of an art icon
An exhibition of photographs by Nickolas Muray at Corning’s Rockwell Museum shows the making of artist Frida Kahlo’s mythic image.
After courting artists, Bello doubles down on funding the arts
Monroe County Executive Adam Bello proposes doubling funding for arts groups to $1 million as he enters an election year.
Bello budget would boost spending on projects, public safety, and more
Monroe County Executive Adam Bello’s 2023 budget proposal would also reduce the average property tax rate.
Upstate Unity Fest promises a hardcore heaven
Hardcore punk bands from Rochester, Buffalo, and Syracuse play Bug Jar on Nov. 12 for a one-day celebration of the upstate New York scenes.
Dufus retrospective ‘The Second Phone” is innovative and nonsensical
“The Second Phone” is a retrospective two-volume set capturing Seth Faergolzia’s former freak folk band Dufus at its anarchic best.
2022 midterm elections in Monroe County
The 2022 election in New York will decide the direction of the state and Monroe County for years to come. Every seat in the state legislature is on the ballot this year, and the race for a Webster-based Monroe County Legislature seat could reinforce Republican control of Monroe or usher in a Democratic majority. Polls…
Sarah Shook comes ‘home’
After a life of ups and downs, a songwriter from Lima takes their act back to where it all began.
D&C journalists walk off the job for a day
A one-day strike here mirrors those at other Gannett-owned newspapers.
Eastman Opera’s ‘Lear on the 2nd Floor’ tackles Alzheimer’s with arias
Anthony Davis’s 2012 opera “Lear on the 2nd Floor” uses Shakespeare as the inspiration for a family matriarch’s struggle with dementia.
Susan Begy’s mural ‘Entanglement’ connects Rochester’s arts community
Susan Begy brings new meaning to the phrase “arts networking” with her mural “Entanglement” at Rochester Contemporary Art Center.
Fairport’s planned sale of the Potter House falls through
Mayor Julie Domaratz says the village will try again to sell the historic mansion, which needs extensive repairs.
‘A Time to Terry’ is a fresh take on smooth jazz
Pianist Terry Bogart’s smooth jazz album “A Time to Terry” cleverly draws from pop, gospel, and hip-hop.
Yoga teacher Anderson Allen blends movement with writing at ‘Scribe and Move’
Yoga and creative writing go together in Anderson Allen’s class at The Avenue Blackbox Theatre.
Keg Tree lighting celebration set to return
The celebration of the Keg Tree’s lighting will return for the first time since 2019.
Simeon Banister looks to make his mark on Greater Rochester
The Rochester Area Community Foundation’s new leader is focused on equity.
Anomaly festival’s horror film ‘The Harbinger’ has a city connection
The 2022 Anomaly festival has a heap of horror films, such as Andy Mitton’s “The Harbinger,” which included crew members from Rochester.
UR backpedals on building a facility next to Genesee Valley Park
The university’s development proposal led an advocacy group to declare Genesee Valley Park a threatened Olmsted-designed site.
Genesee Valley Park makes list of threatened Olmsted sites
A national advocacy group says there’s a risk the University of Rochester could develop an important wooded area that buffers the park from it.
Planned Parenthood gets go-ahead in Henrietta
A court order has given Planned Parenthood the green light to move forward in Henrietta, following a Town Board denial in June.
Commentary: Will Rochester’s ‘percent-for-art’ law leave the launch pad this time?
Rochester has next to nothing to show for its ‘percent-for-art’ policy enacted 15 years ago. Officials say they are trying to change that.
Geva Theatre’s ‘Somewhere’ critiques Puerto Rican representation
“Somewhere” aims to be both an homage to “West Side Story” and a critique of the musical’s relationship to Puerto Ricans, but falls short.
A lone high-stakes race in the Monroe County Legislature
Democrat Mike DiTullio is challenging incumbent Republican Mark Johns in the 8th District for the only Legislature seat in contention. The outcome could shape the county’s agenda for at least the next year.
A politician and a police officer clash in their race for Congress
Republican La’Ron Singletary is trying to unseat Democrat Joe Morelle, who is wrapping up his second term in the seat.
Cooney takes on VanBrederode in 56th Senate District
The incumbent senator and former police chief are running in the 56th District, which has been a battleground for decades.
Your 2022 election guide: Big elections, little fanfare
This year, every single seat in the New York state Assembly and Senate are on the ballot, as is a high-stakes Monroe County Legislature contest. Here’s what’s on the line.
Meet the 15 Rochester-area Assembly candidates
All eight state Assembly seats covering Monroe County are on the ballot this year.
New York puts $4B climate measure on the ballot this election
This election, your ballot will include a yes or no vote on a $4.2 billion investment in environmental and climate-related projects.
What’s at play in the State Senate races
All seats in the state Senate are up for election this year, including the four that reach into Monroe County.
Nick Cory Young dispenses Americana wisdom on ‘Crow Got Drunk’
Nick Cory Young brings thoughtful perspective to his spirited alt-country songs on “Crow Got Drunk.”
A new city plan aims to rethink how we feed Rochester
Rochester will put $5 million in COVID relief in a loan and grant program aimed at bringing good food to underserved neighborhoods.
CITY Visits . . . Fashion Week Rochester
We talked to models, you know what we mean? And they did their little turns on the catwalk. Yeah, on the catwalk.
Controversial redistricting plan goes to Bello
The plan sets the stage for a veto and further fanning an ongoing political battle.
Adam Wilcox steps away from the mic on ‘Songs for My Friends to Sing’
A longtime supporting songwriter in several bands, Adam Wilcox took the lead in penning the tracks on “Songs for My Friends to Sing.”
Police Accountability Board workers move to unionize
Nearly all members of the Police Accountability Board staff have agreed to unionize with Workers United of Western New York.
Federal lawsuit aims to save Loomis Street encampment
A federal complaint argues the city’s plan to raze a homeless encampment on Loomis Street violates the residents’ Constitutional rights.
Pathways to Peace head Anthony Hall sues city alleging false arrest
The leader of the city’s Pathways to Peace program Anthony Hall is suing the city alleging false arrest and use of force in June.
Noah Fense ‘pops-off’ on hip-hop
Rochester rapper Noah Fense’s vision for an indoor music festival of art, hip-hop, and electronic music continues with “The Pop-Off! Vol. 3.”
The Company Theatre’s queer, punk ‘Richard II’ is a hidden gem
Queer relationships and political intrigue collide in “Richard II,” the inaugural production by new Rochester troupe The Company Theatre.
JCC’s ‘On the Market’ is a Hallmark comedy about grief
“On the Market,” a romantic comedy about grief, offers syrupy escapism but only scratches the surface on love and loss.
PAB investigation to come to close as Council tells agency to focus on the work
The ongoing investigation into personnel issues at the PAB is set to close by the end of the month.
PAB staffers call for firing of Acting Manager Duwaine Bascoe
A group of 18 staffers at the Police Accountability Board say Acting Manager Duwaine Bascoe has created a hostile work environment.
Bello to legislators: Go back to the drawing board on redistricting
County Executive Adam Bello says his administration is developing a map proposal he hopes leads to negotiations among legislators.
City settles Daniel Prude case for $12 million
The settlement caps two years of litigation. The fatal arrest of Daniel Prude by Rochester police in 2020 sparked protests nationwide.
Black Button plans major expansion with move to University Avenue
After 10 years on Railroad Street, Black Button Distilling is making a move to University Avenue.
‘Best of Rochester’ is back — bigger and better than ever
The January issue of CITY will be a “Best of Rochester” blowout unlike anything that has come before.
Former Mayor Lovely Warren dips a toe back into politics
Former Mayor Lovely Warren has moved back into politics, and is now serving as leader of the 22nd Legislative District Democratic Committee.
CITY VISITS . . . The Ellison Park dog park
We talked to dog owners and their masters soaking up the sun, and it was impossible to say which was which.
Warren weighs in on controversial redistricting plan, scolds its Democratic opponents
County legislators will likely vote on the plan during their Oct. 11 meeting.
Eastman Centennial concert features alum’s composition about Georgia O’Keeffe
Kevin Puts’s “The Brightness of Light” tells the love story of painter Georgia O’Keeffe and photographer Alfred Stieglitz, documented over 30 years of letters.
Visiting City Hall just got harder — and you can thank this ‘patriot’
Daniel Warmus was sentenced this week to 45 days in prison for breaching the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021.
Wild foraged foods are on the menus at these Rochester restaurants
These tasty hyperlocal dishes come from unique collaborations between chefs and foragers.
For 100 years, the Latimers have handled death for Rochester families
Millard E. Latimer & Son Funeral Directors is thought to be the oldest Black-owned business in Rochester. Can it continue for another century?
Rochester Experimental Week is a smorgasbord of sounds
Adam Arritola, aka Eclectic Overdrive, brings nearly 100 adventurous acts — from local to international musicians — together for one week.
Music meets ‘The Twilight Zone’ in new graphic novel ‘Enter the Blue’
Dave Chisholm’s latest graphic novel, “Enter the Blue,” is an innovative blend of music and science fiction in homage to Blue Note Records.
Focus Theater opens in Sibley Building
The Focus Theater’s new 90-seat space in the Sibley Building is a home for local talent to take part in improv and comedy.
American Wild Ensemble evokes nature with ‘Duos and Trios’
In a series newly commissioned works by composers, the Eastman alumni-led American Wild Ensemble is both accessible and adventurous.
Notule’s ‘Cantus Circaeus’ is the perfect Halloween soundtrack
“Cantus Circaeus” is a goth-synth wonderland of dark soundscapes that suggests the occult and creates a strange sense of peace.
Bellwether Breaks is ‘Headed Home’ on new retro rock EP
The rock band uses vintage ’60s sounds to for a throwback feel that’s indebted to blues and country music.
Sally Louise reaches new vocal heights with ‘Butterflies’ EP
Sally Louise embraces her folk influences and continues to grow her voice on the new EP “Butterflies.”
Robot and shark vs zombie donuts: Here’s the serious message behind a silly kids book
Local children’s author Brian Yanish’s new book has a shark and robot fighting off zombie doughnuts. But it’s deeper than that, we swear.
PAB: Rochester police are not transparent enough
The Police Accountability Board is calling on the Rochester Police Department to make all data publicly available.
Rochester Fringe Festival was back in full effect this year
In 2022, Rochester Fringe Festival was back to full strength for the first time in three years. But are things back to normal?
‘Improv at The Focus’ is a mixed bag, with a payoff
It took 45 minutes for the actual improv at The Focus Theater to begin, but when there were some wonderfully absurd moments when it did.
Rochester Fringe headliners Bandaloop and ‘Shotspeare’ bring the spectacle
While Bandaloop presented “high art,” literally, Cirque du Fringe’s “Shotspeare” infused the Bard’s work with low culture.
When Karen Iglesia is on the sidelines, the kids shout, “It’s PrimeTime!”
Karen Iglesia, a middle-aged mom of two grown sons, has attained unlikely celebrity as the face of PrimeTime585.
The Velvet Noose provokes at Rochester Fringe, but is there a point?
The Velvet Noose’s pagan performance art reaches new levels of avant-garde instigation in “Super Flower Blood Moon.” The message is unclear.
Eric Gutman delivers funny, moving tribute to his Broadway days
Eric Gutman’s “From Broadway to Obscurity” is both a love letter to musical theater and a therapy session about being a professional actor.
Mocktails, madcap improv, and a musical cowboy refresh Fringe audiences
On the last Friday of Fringe, Unleashed! Improv provides its left-field takes on shows, cowboy guitarist Jeff Mamett spreads Texas charm.
Amateur rock hounds collect fossils and gems all over New York
Crystals and fossils and minerals, oh my! New York is full of geological wonders and hobbyists who want a piece of them.
Celebrate the carb harvest with these filling dishes
Great grain-based dishes at Rochester restaurants are delectably heavy fare for the cooler months.
CHOW HOUND | What’s happening in Rochester’s food + bev scene
The vegan scene gains a comfort food joint and a bakery, and fall food events ramp up.
Ousted PAB boss loses lawsuit to be reinstated
Conor Dwyer Reynolds had argued that the board engaged in illegal secret meetings to remove him as the executive director.
City plans to put $250,000 in one tent city, and demolish another
The city of Rochester will invest $250,000 into street outreach at the Peace Village encampment. But an unsanctioned camp on Loomis Street faces razing.
Geva’s ‘Jane Eyre’ hampered by outdated, sexist approach to characters
Helen Sadler shines as Jane Eyre at Geva Theatre Center, but the production itself is problematic in its treatment of women.
Push Physical Theatre dances about masculinity at Rochester Fringe
PUSH presents “Generic Male” off-Broadway this winter, but not before performing the funny and dramatic show at Rochester Fringe Saturday.
‘Bardbending: A Same-Sex Shakespeare Sampler’ transcends binary gender roles
Wallbyrd Theatre’s “Bardbending” explores shifting gender roles from classic scenes in ways William Shakespeare never imagined.
Rochester Fringe highlights RIT short films and meditative listening
RIT students showcase engaging and weird films; pianist Greg Woodsbie helps Fringe attendees reflect with a fusion of music and dance.
Street Beat brings party vibes, hip-hop culture to Rochester Fringe
The popular hip-hop dance competition features slick moves while promoting vibrant and diverse cultures in the community.
Rochester Fringe presents the spiritual journey of ‘Remnants’
“Remants” shares the legacy of the Onondaga people, while “A Night of Stars” pays tribute to the great American crooners.
Queer AF looks to build community through comedy at Rochester Fringe
Comedy and inclusivity combine for Queer AF, the stand-up showcase featuring LGBTQ comedians.
A gospel cleansing, Thomas Warfield, and a fiery performance at Rochester Fringe
Halfway through 2022 Rochester Fringe, Sunday had a little bit of everything: gospel music, a Thomas Warfield celebration, and broken glass.
‘Etched Glass Decanter’ is intimate, harrowing theater
In the appropriately named Conjure Box at The Spirit Room, The Evening Crane Theatre presents a riveting drama with truly haunting moments.
Rochester City Ballet gives new season a test run, Thank You Kiss returns at Fringe
Rochester City Ballet tries its hand at “spooky” with “Turn of the Screw,” while Thank You Kiss returns from the pandemic with absurdity.
Stupid Ed blends smart and sophomoric comedy in Fringe stand-up set
Stupid Ed’s comedy is mostly smart, and “Inner Loops” is only superficially about Rochester as a place.
Comedians come in all ages, but funny is funny at Rochester Fringe
“Stand-Up Through the Ages” proves that some jokes are more timeless than others.
Rochester City Ballet brings the unsettling ‘Turn of the Screw’ to Fringe
Rochester City Ballet takes a bone-chilling turn with its take on Salvatore Aiello’s “Turn of the Screw.”
‘C’est Pas La, C’est Par La’ connects the Rochester Fringe community
Artist Juhyung Lee’s immersive “C’est Pas La, C’est Par La” brings Rochester Fringe-goers together in a new way.
The impressive Flying Españas miss the mark at Rochester Fringe
Rochester Fringe Festival headliners The Flying Españas dazzle onlookers with “Flippin Metal Circus,” but something’s missing.
AG report: Simran Gordon shot first, no charges filed
Simran Gordon was fatally shot by Rochester police while he was robbing a downtown discount store in 2021.
Magician-detective Dirk Darrow is on the case in Tim Sorley’s Fringe show
Tim Sorley combines magic, comedy, and a sleuthing narrative in his show “Dirk Darrow: Magic of Future Past.”
Mentalist Steven Nicholas twists reality and blows minds at Rochester Fringe
In “ExperiMENTALISM,” Steven Nicolas uses mind games and plenty of audience participation to entertain unsuspecting Fringe audiences.
Our local comedy scene gets a stage at Rochester Fringe, too
Writer-actor Hilary Bluestein-Lyons’s busy Rochester Fringe includes delightfully bizarre short plays and co-hosting a hit-or-miss stand-up.
For the ‘Year of Glass,’ chamber musicians and glassblowers collaborate in ‘More Fire’
Rochester chamber music ensemble fivebyfive has collaborated with visual artists in the past, but never with glass blowers.
Bello signs Monroe County’s first climate action plan
The plan sets a goal for the county to cut its greenhouse gas emissions 80 percent by 2050.
The absurd and astounding ‘Cirque du Fringe: Afterglow’
The daily “Cirque du Fringe” show brings an abundance of silliness and acrobatic skill to the Spiegeltent audience at the Rochester Fringe.
Where can you hear goth/folk songs about the scientist Marie Curie? Rochester Fringe, naturally
On the second day of Fringe, Rochester conspiracy theories, the trauma of the Inner Loop, and Brooklyn goth-folk duo Charming Disaster played to niche audiences.
Epic fiasco derails Monroe County public defender selection process
The Public Defender’s Office is in its ninth month without a permanent leader.
Biodance addresses a world on fire in collaborative Fringe performance
Missy Pfohl Smith’s Biodance performs at Fringe again on Sept, 17 with a bold message on climate change.
The Flying Españas mix motorcycles and trapeze in ‘Flippin Metal Circus’
With “Flippin Metal Circus,” legendary circus act The Flying Españas include motorcycles, other modern elements alongside traditional trapeze.
Monroe County Legislature sets hearing on controversial plan to redraw districts
Democrats are divided over the proposal in large part because of the way it divides the city.
Psych-rock kings The Flaming Lips headline Borderland Festival
The Borderland Festival in East Aurora enters its fourth year this weekend, with indie rock mavens The Flaming Lips headlining Sunday night.
All the must-see shows and hidden gems at 2022 Rochester Fringe Festival
There are more than 500 shows at the 2022 Rochester Fringe Festival. Here are our staff picks to keep you in the loop and plan an unforgettable festival.
CITY/WXXI’s 2022 Rochester Fringe Festival Coverage
The Rochester Fringe Festival is back, and we’ve got you covered with features, reviews, and daily staff picks.
Bushwhacked gets back to baking at 2022 Rochester Fringe Festival
Comedy duo Abby DeVuyst and Kerry Young combine “The Great British Bake-Off” and “Game of Thrones” in its new Rochester Fringe show.
Fringe Festival’s Speigeltent is now smellier — in a good way
Rochester Fringe Festival is taking a cue from Las Vegas casinos and “scenting” its spiegeltent.
Rochester Fringe offers 12 days of improv, interaction and string catharsis
Take a voyage of discovery over the 12 days of the Rochester Fringe Festival.
Doug Emblidge and Ginny Ryan to leave Channel 13
The duo has been co-anchoring the 13WHAM News broadcast since 1990.
RPO planning more diverse programming in ’22-’23 season
Composers and performers of color get more of the spotlight with the RPO this season.
As the Genesee Brew House turns 10, it looks to its neighborhood’s future
As its tenth birthday loom, the Genesee Brew House sits at the center of a storied history and the city’s development plans for the future.
New WXXI doc on Garth Fagan digs into the renowned dancer’s legacy
After Garth Fagan won a Tony Award in 1998 for best choreography in “The Lion King,” there might have seemed to be nowhere else for him to go. Where he went was back to his studio in the anonymous-looking, nearly century-old building on Chestnut Street in downtown Rochester to work on another dance, “Two Pieces…
Danielle Ponder seizes her moment
Rochester soul singer Danielle Ponder has arrived on the national music scene — and she’s ready for the spotlight.
Democrats clash over redistricting proposal
A controversial map delineating new district boundaries in the Monroe County Legislature is expected to soon be put up for a vote.
Geva Theatre Center brings a breath of fresh ‘Eyre’
Geva’s new artistic director launches her inaugural season with her adaptation of the classic 19th-century novel “Jane Eyre.”
Woman sues Rochester police, claims she miscarried due to tear gas exposure
A Rochester woman is suing the city and police department, alleging she suffered a miscarriage due to exposure to tear gas during a protest.
Daniel Prude two years later: Here’s what’s changed
Two years since since the release of video of Daniel Prude’s fatal arrest, here’s what’s changed in the city of Rochester.
Wren Cove’s ‘Trees’ is a mysterious blend of cello, electronics, and grooves
Wren Cove is the unexpected collaboration of multi-instrumentalist Andrew Cloninger, formerly of the Daniel Bennett Group, and cellist Melissa Davies of the band Cottage Street. What’s more unexpected is that “Trees,” Wren Cove’s five-song EP released by Basement Factory Music on Aug. 1, was improvised. Most of the spontaneous compositions on “Trees” are lush vignettes,…
21 fall arts events you need to know about
It’s a colorful autumn for Rochester’s arts scene. These are the upcoming events we’re excited about.
Local indie rocker Will Veeder gets contemplative with ‘Exit Interview’
Will Veeder, formerly of the Rochester rock bands Muler and Hinkley, delves into primitive folk and drone music on his latest album.
Turkey Blaster Omega makes angsty, upbeat ska on new album
On “Habits of the Average Degenerate,” vocalist Katie Mangiamele and company keep their brand of ska fun and full of punk energy.
Pegasus Early Music’s ‘L’Orfeo’ finds a muse in the pandemic
Themes of loss and lonesomeness abound in the most important opera ever written.
GOP’s VanBrederode to carry Independence line on November ballot
The Monroe County Board of Elections has certified VanBrederode’s petitions and a lawsuit challenging them has been dropped.
‘Juneteenth parody party’ couple digs in to defend themselves
Mary Znidarsic-Nicosia admits she had a racist Twitter account, but says she and her husband are victims of “cancel culture.”
The Finger Lakes braces as the spotted lanternfly threat looms
That the spotted lanternfly will invade the Finger Lakes is a foregone conclusion. What can winemakers do about the destructive pest?
Remelt family’s project combines solar panels and perennials
Henrietta farm makes innovative use of the spaces in between solar arrays.
Composting a high priority in Monroe County’s new climate plan
The draft plan, which requires approval by the Legislature, includes 62 specific recommendations for the county to consider.
City to give nuisance points to unlicensed cannabis shops
Businesses selling weed without a license now face nuisance points in the city, which range in penalties up to being shut down.
RPD chief to City Council: No more 30-hour shifts for officers
Rochester interim police chief, David Smith, said he has capped the officer workday at 16 hours amid a rash of overtime use.
Rochester enters the era of the $250,000 police officer
Rising crime and a labor shortage means no shortage of overtime for police officers.
Rochester ‘society’ shuns alleged Juneteenth spoof party hosts
Nicholas and Mary Nicosia have long held positions of stature in Rochester. But that’s changing.
Charles Emanuel finds ‘Freedom’ with new R&B love songs
On the new album “Freedom,” Charles Emanuel expands on his acoustic-driven pop-soul sound with rich R&B songs about the power of love.
CITY Visits…The Puerto Rican Festival of Rochester
The Puerto Rican Festival returned to Frontier Field. We talked to people reveling in the red, white, and blue-soaked showcase of food, music, and dance.
Dave Matthews guitarist Tim Reynolds steps into the spotlight with a solo show
Best known as Dave Matthews Band’s lead guitarist, Tim Reynolds headlines Lincoln Hill Farms BrewFest with a solo acoustic set on Aug. 13.
James Longenbach, U of R prof who wrote about poetry for the masses, dies at 62
James Longenbach, a prominent poet and critic, was considered a giant in his field.
Judge to city and protesters: ‘Work it out yourselves’
Judge Frank Geraci urged plaintiffs and defendants involved in lawsuits over RPD protest response to move forward toward a resolution.
Amid tensions with art community, city looks to spend $200K on public art
Officials want to invest in a series of murals and other public art projects on city-owned properties.
Monroe County’s oldest building to get a checkup
The Stone-Tolan Historic Site on East Avenue housed early settlers, barflys, travelers, and even a future king.
Man accused in Officer Anthony Mazurkiewicz’s death faces life without parole
Suspected shooter Kelvin Vickers tells court that he “doesn’t live anywhere.”
Thousands mourn slain Rochester police officer
Hundreds of officers from New York and beyond were among those to say farewell to Officer Anthony Mazurkiewicz.
Brynn Tyszka, an ‘inventive force,’ takes the helm at Blackfriars Theatre
New Artistic Director Brynn Tyszka brings passion, eye for inclusivity to Blackfriars Theatre.
Rochester’s nicest ice and who makes it
Cristallino Premium Ice elevates the humble ice cube and area cocktails with science and art.
CHOW HOUND: What’s happening on Rochester’s dining scene
CRISP Rochester opens, August events, and a settlement in Mr. Dominic’s sexual harassment suit.
City Council opens public sessions on housing quality
At the first public session, residents expressed code enforcement and housing quality as top of mind concerns.
A skatepark is coming to Perinton
Fairport is hoping to build a $1.2 million skatepark in Perinton Park.
Quietly cool cocktail hours at Grace & Disgrace
Grace & Disgrace’s pop-up cocktail hours at Bar Mecca cater to people who want a low-key night out.
Buffalo lawyer Robert Fogg put forward for vote for public defender
The selection of Buffalo-based lawyer Robert Fogg for public defender sets up a potential confirmation battle.
A reference letter for a star student goes wrong at Our Lady of Mercy
Retracting a letter of recommendation for a star student sends school officials scrambling.
The Pickle Mafia serves up mercurial jazz grooves on ‘Pass the Gabagool’
The Pickle Mafia combines easy listening with serious musicianship on its full-length debut album.
Rochester Reads selection is one ‘Hell of a Book’
Jason Mott’s 2021 award-winning novel is a “page-turner” and “truly a book of our time.”
Norman Rockwell uplifts at Utica’s MWP Art Institute
“America’s illustrator” showed Americans who they were, and who they could be.
Brockport ends MFA program through VSW
Visual Studies Workshop will no longer offer a masters degree for students of visual culture, but the community art hub still has important work to do.
Guitarist Simon Fletcher’s new composition features sounds for all seasons
Musician Simon Fletcher will perform a new instrumental song cycle on July 29 as part of Avon Park Theater’s grand reopening.
CITY Visits…The Rochester Pride Parade
Rochester Pride returned in July after a two-year hiatus. We chatted up the friendly faces who make Pride the most colorful festival in town.
Showdown over a downtown business improvement district
Does downtown need (or want) a business improvement district? Opponents and supporters dig in.
The historic Avon Park Theater reopens after years of neglect
The 84-year-old cultural landmark has been reimagined as a multi-purpose space for movies, live music, comedy, and more.
WallTherapy opens: Here’s where to see the works
Celebrating its 10th year, WallTherapy begins Saturday with muralists working around town.
Democratic lawsuit seeks to keep VanBrederode off of Independence line
Former Gates Police Chief James VanBrederode will appear on the ballot with the Republican line regardless of this lawsuit’s outcome.
Rochester police officers shot, one killed
Rochester Police have confirmed that one of the two officers shot on Bauman Street on the northeast side Thursday night died of his injuries.
RPD investigator who handcuffed EMT has history of misconduct
Charles LoTempio previously pleaded guilty to knocking a man’s teeth out with a flashlight during a traffic stop and an unlawful search.
Nine Spot Brewing screams all things New York
Set to open in early August on Monroe Avenue, Nine Spot Brewing serves to be a shrine to all things New York.
Rochester pushes back major riverfront project to late 2024
Construction planned next fall on the centerpiece of Rochester’s downtown riverfront improvement projects will start over a year late.
City aims to bring nature to the forefront at Maplewood Park
The city plans to invest $5.5 million into a new Nature Center at Maplewood Park, the vast majority of which comes from COVID relief dollars.
PAB reviewing Strong Hospital incident as RPD opens investigation
Rochester’s Police Accountability Board is reviewing an incident in which a Rochester police investigator handcuffed a Monroe Ambulance EMT.
People should be able to sell recreational weed by the end of the year
The Office of Cannabis Management expects to begin accepting applications for marijuana dispensary licenses in August.
Armory bows to public criticism and cancels far-right ReAwaken America tour
After hiding the event from their website, the owner of the Main Street Armory announced over email that he’d canceled the rally.
Suspended PAB director sues agency, city seeking reinstatement to his position
Conor Dwyer Reynolds was placed on administrative leave in May from his position as director of the Police Accountability Board.
Brighton renewable power program on pause after contractor defaults
Source Power, the electricity supplier the town contracted with for the initiative, was recently booted out of the state’s competitive energy market.
Review: JCC’s ‘Rise’ is a history lesson wrapped in a rock concert
The modern rock musical “Rise,” premiering at JCC, tells the largely unsung story of Jewish girls who were key to the anti-Nazi resistance.
GrassRoots rocks a milestone birthday
The beloved Finger Lakes music festival marks 30 years of making music and memories.
Fringe 2022 to feature favorites among more than 500 in-person events
The Rochester Fringe returns to its original format and will feature performances from favorites such as Bandaloop and Cirque du Fringe.
Weekly Planner July 11 – 17: What’s Happening in Arts, Music, and Life
From Red Wings Pride Night to a wild David Lynch flick, CITY has something for you to do every night this week!
Smith tapped to serve as Rochester Police Department chief
Dave Smith, a 30-year veteran of the RPD, had been serving as the department’s interim chief since last October.
Judge rejects city’s plea to dismiss lawsuit over police response to protests
The defendants argued that assertions made in the case were irrelevant, but Federal Judge Frank Geraci disagreed.
‘Construction season’ builds a rainbow at MAG
Two new monumental sculptures are being installed in the Memorial Art Gallery’s Centennial Sculpture Park.
3 scenic Erie Canal cruises to enjoy this summer
Let your cares melt away for a few passive hours on Rochester’s waterways.
Webster to begin plan for industrial areas, including part of Xerox campus
That plan will analyze a 387-acre section of the village’s industrial district and outline ways for reanimating dormant space.
Waterfront dining spots that hit the spot — whatever your mood
These four spots strike the balance between special occasion and just-rolled-off-the-beach.
WallTherapy marks 10 years with one last festival
Capping a decade and scores of murals around town, WallTherapy pulls the plug on its annual festival. But the project will live on in other ways.
Rochester Pride Turns 50: A rundown of Pride events in July
The annual Pride festival returns with a parade, festival, picnic, and a local focus.
County invites ‘mid-sized’ arts groups to apply for $20,000 in funding
Monroe County has set aside $500,000 for “mid-sized” arts groups after facing scrutiny about its lack of funding for the arts.
Peo removed as chair of a City Council committee in podcast fallout
In a memo issued Wednesday, Council President Miguel Meléndez said he would be “remiss to not act” in response to Councilmember Jose Peo’s behavior.
Peo changes course, apologizes to Lupien
City Councilmember Jose Peo says he has apologized to his colleague, Mary Lupien, for lewd remarks about her on his podcast.
Marge’s Lakeside Inn: Where the party never stops
With its beach chairs, live music, and sand beckoning bare feet, Marge’s Lakeside Inn feels much more exotic than the shore of a Great Lake.
Rochester’s last three downtown hot dog vendors make a stand
Hot dog vendors used to be everywhere downtown. Now, there are three. These are their stories.
The secret Devil’s Cove Park: A hellish name, a heavenly place
There’s not much to do at this hidden paradise of Irondequoit Bay — and that’s kind of the whole point.
Monroe County redistricting commission will meet to modify proposed map
After a roughly two-month delay, the committee tasked with drawing new districts for the Monroe County Legislature is scheduled to meet Thursday.
City lawmaker Jose Peo shrugs off sexual remarks about colleague on podcast
City Council Vice President Mary Lupien was the target of sexual remarks on a podcast hosted by her colleague, Jose Peo.
Feedback: Readers weigh in on pregnancy resource center coverage
Supporters defended the centers following a CITY story on one local facility and the state’s plan to study the tactics of others like it.
Weekly Planner June 27-July 3: What’s Happening in Arts, Music, and Life
From Jurassic Park downtown to Gap Mangione on the beach, CITY has something for you to do every night this week!
CITY Visits…The Harborfest Classic Car Show
We caught up with gearheads showing their sweet rides at Harborfest’s “Wheels in Motion” classic car show at Ontario Beach Park.
Four candidates vie for city court seat
In an oft-overlooked election, the Rochester City Court race sees four candidates battle for an influential seat on the bench.
Police Accountability Board backers call on Council to free up agency’s funding
The Police Accountability Board Alliance has called on City Council to release the board’s funding, in-full, for the 2023 fiscal year.
Legacy cannabis operators see roadblocks and opportunities in NY’s emerging recreational market
New York plans to offer the first cannabis retail licenses to people who either had a past marijuana-related offense or have a family member who did.
Rochester Public Market seeing fewer farmers as economic disruptions take toll
The Public Market is its own small economy, which is changing in response to the pandemic, supply chain interruptions, labor shortages and high gas prices.
Weekly Planner June 20-26: What’s Happening in Music, Arts, and Life
From entire days dedicated to shredding to lots of outdoors music, we’ve got the hottest arts, music, and culture events to keep you cool every day this week.
We’re missing the real gun violence epidemic
Alarm over mass shootings obscures the everyday gun violence that is killing Americans and can be curbed.
After a two-year hiatus, Rochester gets its jazz on
Rochester’s Jazz Fest is back, with a record number of free shows.
Divided City Council passes budget with an eye on the Police Accountability Board
City Council passed a $627 million spending plan Tuesday that makes investments in public safety and libraries.
Larry Knox tapped as PAB chair
Larry Knox, a longtime political organizer for 1199 SEIU, has been tapped as the Police Accountability Board’s new chairperson.
New York is looking into whether pregnancy resource centers steer women away from abortions
The bill, signed into law by Gov. Kathy Hochul, kick starts a study into whether the facilities manipulate women out of abortions.
Weekly Planner June 13-19: What’s Happening in Music, Arts, and Life
The Jazz Fest returns at the end of the week, but there’s plenty to do around Rochester every day this week.
Police Accountability Board chair resigns
Shani Wilson stepped down as the chair of the Police Accountability Board on Friday effective immediately.
Where have all the gay bars gone?
In a half-century, Rochester’s gay bars went from secret and forbidden to “out” and everywhere to almost nowhere.
Lawyer says Police Accountability Board was racked by ‘confusion, tension, and paranoia’
A PAB lawyer’s complaint accuses Executive Director Conor Dwyer Reynolds of fostering an environment of paranoia and harassment.
Police Accountability Board head alleges suspension is retaliation for sexual harassment complaint
Conor Dwyer Reynolds alleges his suspension is retaliation to his sexual harassment complaints against Board Chair Shani Wilson.
Far from home, young Afghan refugees find community in skateboarding
Young Afghan refugees in Rochester find confidence and freedom through the skateboarding program Rolling Resettlement.
Monroe County seeks input for ‘people-powered transportation’ plan
An early focus of the plan is finding ways to better connect bike-pedestrian infrastructure across Monroe County municipalities.
Weekly Planner June 6-12: What’s Happening in Music, Arts, and Life
From curated cocktails and craft beers to emo revivalists and hidden treasures, CITY has something for you to do every night this week.
The gavel falls on Fairport Village Court
Effective Jan. 1, Perinton Town Court will handle all of the cases that would have been heard in Fairport Village Court.
10 beers you must try at this weekend’s Real Beer Expo
The Rochester Real Beer Expo is back this year, featuring 60 breweries and well over 120 beers.
Viv Sound embraces satire on ‘Karen’
John Viviani of Viv Sound offers a touch of humor as he portrays a “Karen” trying to orchestrate her hissy fit routine.
Penny Sterling is out to break hearts
The comedian teams with PUSH Physical Theatre to tell her personal story. Her show runs at Blackfriars Theatre from June 3-12.
Bello orders probation changes in response to sexual assault case
Probation officers will now check on convicted sex offenders at their workplaces more often under an order issued by the county executive.
On ‘Homemade Pie,’ Johnny Dowd adopts a more organic sound
But the music is still built around Dowd’s dark lyrics and inimitable voice, as well as a blend of country, folk, blues, and rock influences.
Weekly Planner May 30-June 5: What’s Happening in Music, Arts, and Life
From Ringo on the big stage to brunch with Rochester drag royalty, CITY has something for you to do every night of the week.
Police Accountability Board names interim leader, readies for investigations
Duwaine Bascoe will serve as interim leader of the PAB, as the agency prepares to review complaints of police misconduct on June 20.
RG&E, NYSEG request ‘the largest rate increase in recent history’
Gov. Kathy Hochul blasted the plan shortly after the utilities publicly announced it.
Teachers on leave over allegedly racist text messages about their students
Staff members at School 17 in Rochester have been placed on leave and face firing for allegedly racist texts about their students, Superintendent Lesli Myers-Small said in a statement Friday.
Cinema Theater reopens Friday with full bar, fancy eats, and no cats
The Cinema Theater opens Friday with Top Gun: Maverick, featuring in-movie food and drinks, but a dearth of cats.
Our Parks, Olmsted’s Legacy
A photographer captures intimate scenes in Rochester’s public spaces designed by the legendary Frederick Law Olmstead.
Tuesday Thomas hits Rochester with sass and seriousness
Wednesday’s Queer AF Comedy night will feature a homecoming with comedian Tuesday Thomas.
Henrietta and Rush are eyeing renewable power for residents and businesses
The towns plan to opt in to a program where’d they’d secure power supplies for residents and some businesses, possibly at lower prices.
Council members grill Police Accountability Board over missed goals
The board was supposed to complete 125 investigations in its first year but it completed none, an outcome staff blamed on several factors.
Weekly Planner May 23-29: What’s Happening in Music, Arts, and Life
From the history of waterfowl to the Spring Chickens at the Little, bird is the word. Plus something to do every night of the week, CITY has your arts, music and life happenings.
CITY Visits…The ROC City Skatepark
CITY visits…The ROC City Skatepark. We chatted with skateboarders, roller skaters, and BMXers at Rochester’s sweatiest hotspot.
Fairport installs new historic marker with a nod to the Senecas
The new historic marker replaces one that commemorated the “first white child” born in what is now the village of Fairport.
Council freezes PAB hiring as investigation authorized
The Police Accountability Board will no longer be able to hire staff as an outside legal counsel investigates personnel complaints.
Black Button toasts a decade of distilling
As Black Button marks its 10 year anniversary, it plans to release whiskey that is more aged and to expand its production capacity.
The ‘Queen’ of State Street
Mary Hallford’s Queen J’s Diner on State Street is an honest-to-goodness greasy spoon with outsized portions and undersized prices.
Photographer Adam Eaton spotlights beauty
Eaton’s portraits range from headshots to moody poses and emphasize the radiance of people of color.
Police: FBI investigating whether Buffalo gunman had targeted Rochester
Online posts thought to be authored by the alleged Buffalo shooter show how he might have attacked spots in Rochester.
Pregnancy resource centers: Healthcare or religious propaganda?
New York lawmakers question the role of pregnancy resource centers and whether they coerce women out of having abortions.
Weekly Planner May 16-22: What’s Happening in Music, Arts, and Life
This week Rochester has an eclectic mix of everything from theater about yoga to art galleries featuring jazz. CITY’s weekly planner has something for every night of the week.
Public safety, code enforcement, infrastructure top Evans’s budget
The $627 million budget marks new investments in public safety and infrastructure.
Police Accountability Board director Reynolds is placed on leave
The board has not yet said why its first executive director, Conor Dwyer Reynolds, has been suspended.
Review: JCC CenterStage’s “Little Shop of Horrors” is gruesomely good fun
You’re unlikely to find a more quintessential production of this campy horror musical than the one playing at JCC CenterStage through May 22.
Review: Bare bones script hampers Blackfriars’ ‘Calendar Girls’
Playful confidence of the actors and skillful direction can’t overcome the script’s challenges in “Calendar Girls.”
Natural wine shop Aldaskeller Wine Co. is cleared to open in South Wedge
At a reconsideration hearing, Aldaskeller was given the green light to open a natural wine shop in the South Wedge.
Court ruling could force sale of toxic sites along the Genesee River
A state judge has ordered developer Tom Masaschi to sell 5 and 15 Flint Street, both part of the former Vacuum Oil complex in PLEX.
Weekly Planner May 9-15: What’s Happening in Music, Arts, and Life
Where else can you find thrash metal one night, and Weird Al Yankovic the next night? CITY’s weekly planner has something for every night of the week.
Here’s how you can make corn dogs, fried dough and other festival food favs at home
When you’ve got a craving and no carnival, turn to these simple recipes.
They call him ‘The Daffodil Man’ of Mount Hope Cemetery
Bill Whitney has planted 15,000 daffodil bulbs in a corner of Mount Hope Cemetery where he and his husband plan to be buried.
Dust off your tote bag, art festivals are back
With this list of regional art fairs, you’ll have your holiday shopping done early.
Work off that festival food with these festival workouts
Sure, festivals are about soaking up the sun and the greasy food. But many have a fitness component.
‘Rochester Groovecast’ paves way for new arts podcast ‘The Process’
Music fan Ben Albert built a successful local podcast at the height of the pandemic. Now Siena Facciolo is picking up where he left off.
Commission releases draft Monroe County Legislature redistricting map
The commission is holding several public input sessions, with the first one scheduled for Monday in East Rochester.
Weekly Planner May 2-8: What’s Happening in Music, Arts, and Life
From stoner metal royalty, to carnivorous plants, and the kick-off of the Lilac Festival, there’s something to see or do every night this week.
The ultimate guide to the 2022 festival season
If you want to survive in this jungle of festivals, you need a good guide. This is it.
Genesee Brewery’s Tropical Pineapple dethrones Ruby Red
Genesee’s new summer offering, Tropical Pineapple Kolsch, is subtly sweet, with just a mild malt characteristic serving as the backbone.
50 states of festival foods
Fried dough and hot dogs are a given at festivals, but each state has unique festival fare. Learn where you can find a meatball and mozzarella meat cone, maple everything, and a shrimp n’ grits sundae.
‘Hadestown’ and ‘Hamilton’ among shows coming to Rochester Broadway Theater League next season
Seven new shows join a delayed showing of Hamilton.
Eastman School moves to prioritize racial equity with new hire
Crystal Sellers Battle begins her position as Eastman School of Music’s first associate dean of equity and inclusion on June 1.
City earmarks $5 million in COVID relief funds for a ‘peace collective’
City officials are looking to aside $5 million in federal COVID relief funds for violence prevention.
Highland Park ‘Children’s Pavilion’ to rise again decades later
The original Children’s Pavilion, which was dedicated in 1890 and torn down in 1963, was a gift from the Ellwanger & Barry nursery.
City makes sweeping changes to how police respond to protests
Rochester police have been barred from using dogs, tear gas, and “flash bangs” in response to mass gatherings.
Rose & The Bros expands its rootsy reach with ‘It’s Music’
Ithaca band Rose & The Bros delves deep into Cajun music on their latest album, “It’s Music.”
At RoCo’s ‘6×6’ exhibition, it’s hip to be square — and aware
This year’s “6×6” fundraiser at RoCo aims, in part, to raise awareness about environmental contamination in Puerto Rico.
Estranged husband of Lovely Warren pleads guilty to drug charge
Timothy Granison has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute cocaine and faces at least five years in prison.
Frontier Field to get $26 million upgrade — paid for by taxpayers
Monroe County and state taxpayers are expected to split the cost of renovations, with the county financing $13.5 million.
Weekly Planner April 25 – May 1
From Melvin Seals and the Jerry Garcia Band, to Jim Gaffigan, to the Rochester Music Hall of Fame, there’s something to see or do every night this week.
‘Drink Like a Girl’ festival celebrates women in brewing on Apr. 30
The event will feature a 5k run, a 1k “beer walk,” and an eclectic mix of New York state beer.
Committee recommends Cianca, Fogg as public defender finalists
The candidates will now be reviewed by the Monroe County Legislature, which is legally responsible for appointing the public defender.
Undeath’s ‘It’s Time…to Rise from the Grave’ is bloody, gruesome fun
Before Undeath hits the road for a national tour in May, the death metal quintet is holding its record release party Saturday, April 23.
Maria Schneider’s bird’s-eye view of the music industry
Maria Schneider has composed a piece for the Eastman School of Music’s centennial celebration, which she’ll be premiering Wednesday, April 27, at Kilbourn Hall.
Candidates make their cases to lead the Monroe County Public Defender’s Office
One big topic of discussion was whether the public defender needs to have experience working in criminal defense.
How about that awful stench around Kings Landing?
Operating difficulties at the wastewater treatment plant have raised a stink in the area.
Weekly Planner April 18-24: What’s Happening in Music, Arts, and Life
Gateways Music Festival, BeatlesFrom the Gateways Music Festival, to the RPO performing The Beatles, plus 4/20, there’s something to see or do every night this week.
Summer Soul Music Festival features Babyface and a whole lotta TBA
The city rolled out the lineup for the two-day 26th Rochester Summer Soul Music Festival on Monday morning, with R&B star Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds the sole announced performer.
Monroe County public defenders cry foul in leadership selection
Lawyers in the Monroe County Public Defender’s Office are circulating a letter that decries the search process for a new leader.
Geneseo faculty say an experiment using ultraviolet light to kill COVID-19 damaged their eyes
No one knows if the lights work at controlling COVID, but experts say they could have caused permanent eye damage.
A Kodak mosaic hidden behind drywall for decades is uncovered
All Derek Dlugosh-Ostap wanted was a wall taken down. What was found behind it was a tribute to Kodak’s brilliance and artistry.
Matthew Terp resigns Monroe County Legislature seat — again
Former Assembly member Mark Johns has been appointed to take his place.
Acting public defender resigns after being snubbed
The search for Monroe County’s next public defender has been clouded by complaints of politics and patronage.
City of Rochester seeks public input on Broad St. aqueduct plans
The city plans to remove the Broad Street bridge and turn the former Erie Canal aqueduct underneath into a public gathering space.
NY Lt. Gov. Benjamin arrested in campaign donation scheme
Lt. Gov. Brian Benjamin has been arrested on bribery and conspiracy charges from his 2021 NYC comptroller run.
Weekly Planner April 11-17: What’s Happening in Music, Arts, and Life
From exploring identity and race through poetry, song, and spoken word to an homage to the female soul greats, there’s something to see or do every night this week.
New state budget includes $100M for Inner Loop-north project
The budget was approved and signed over the weekend.
Geva’s ‘Somewhere Over the Border’ puts ‘Wizard of Oz’ spin on immigration
Brian Quijada’s new musical, playing at Geva through April 24, is based on his mother’s journey from El Salvador to America.
Peo drops out of race for Assembly
City Councilmember Jose Peo, who was challenging Sarah Clark for the 136th District Assembly seat, has ended his candidacy.
Looking for the best Earth Month activities? We’ve got them.
Whether watching birds in the woods or planting in the garden, spring makes exploring nature with all five senses easy.
Councilmembers advance program to aid some first-time homebuyers
The Property Ownership Readiness Program would provide education and financial assistance to help 8 to 10 low-income families buy homes.
Katie Morey’s intimate songwriting style drives ‘Friend of a Friend’
Katie Morey’s debut solo album “Friend of a Friend” finds the songwriter reaching a new level of creative complexity.
In their kitchens, cannabis is on the menu
A dash of salt, a shake of pepper, a pinch of pot. These local cannabis chefs are refining their recipes and sharing what they know.
Two Rochester area Starbucks become the first local stores in that chain to unionize
Workers at two Starbucks stores in Rochester have voted to unionize, becoming the latest stores in upstate New York to join a union.
Rochester officials kick off High Falls Terrace Park renovations
The park improvements, as well as a trail project, are part of a push to make High Falls more inviting.
An LGBTQ+ after-school club in Pittsford sparks heated debate
Will an LGBTQ+ affinity club be allowed to continue at Pittsford elementary schools?
Beauty, a beloved downtown falcon, dead at 15
For over 10 years, Beauty and her partners nested and hatched young falcons atop the Times Square building.
Point of the Bluff’s 2022 concert line-up features plenty of nostalgia
The 2022 “Concerts at Point of the Bluff” series features a near-endless parade of classic ’60s and ’70s musicians playing their hit songs.
Water Works building eyed as High Falls welcome center
City taxpayers would foot half of a $5 million bill to renovate the Water Works building and High Falls gorge.
Former Webster superintendent is back in school in Lyons
Carmen Gumina, whose hasty retirement from Webster public schools was fraught with controversy, is back in public education.
Weekly Planner April 4-10: What’s Happening in Music, Arts, and Life
From the Funny ASF comedy show to an acoustic celebration of the Grateful Dead, there’s something to see or do every night this week.
Five Rochester businesses born during the pandemic come into their own
The trauma of the pandemic prompted many people to reevaluate what was important to them and take a leap of faith.
Rochester’s kink community steps into view — behind closed doors
Millions of Americans have kinks, and experts say exploring them safely can improve people’s overall wellness.
Electronic storytelling exhibits at MAG and RoCo reflect on upheaval and identity
Two new exhibitions tell stories of identity and traumatic transitions.
Patrina Freeman, Irondequoit’s first Black lawmaker, sues the town for discrimination
Irondequoit Town Board Member Patrina Freeman is seeking $1 million in damages from the town in a federal discrimination lawsuit.
Monroe County Legislature commission sets redistricting hearings
The commission set six hearings spanning all regions of the county, including one that will happen over Zoom.
Five spots for $10 lunches
Break bread, not the bank, at one of these local restaurants.
Zahyia’s “Chapter 45” traverses soul, jazz, and rock
In her first full-length album as a solo artist, Zahyia showcases her passionate vocal delivery and affinity for eclectic musical styles.
Danielle Ponder continues to dominate with new single ‘So Long’
Released ahead of a big spring tour, local sensation Danielle Ponder’s latest song is a declaration of self-liberation.
Blackfriars’ ‘Surely Goodness and Mercy’ offers kindness and hope
Chisa Hutchinson’s play is an optimistic ode to community and empathy.
Meet the ‘Mama Mucks’ of the Muck Duck Studio art collective
Muck Duck started as a solo art studio, and became a sanctuary for artists seeking creative support and emotional wellness.
Rochester Music Hall of Fame adds Eastman School to 2022 class
The musicians first announced as the Class of 2020 will finally be inducted on May 1, along with Eastman School of Music and Eastman Theatre.
Making art with artificial intelligence
Eryk Salvaggio teaches AI systems to create art. What does it say about our connection to technology?
Weekly Planner March 28-April 3: What’s Happening in Music, Arts, and Life
Diana Krall plays the Auditorium Theatre, Lovin’ Cup hosts the prog-rock trio Stickmen, and something for every night of the week.
Classical and metal converge in ‘Ode and Elegy’
Kent Fairman Wilson and Harold Taddy’s album “Ode and Elegy” took four years to record and featured musicians from around the world.
Neighbors say Perinton landfill violates their constitutional right to ‘clean air’
Neighbors of Waste Management’s High Acres landfill claim the dump violates their state constitutional right to clean air.
All hail Bock, the king of Genesee beers
The release of Genesee’s Ruby Red Kolsch has annually overshadowed the brewery’s superior beer, Spring Bock.
Suburban solar power subscribers seeing red over sky-high bills
They thought their community solar program was a dream. Then came the nightmare of $1,000 energy bills.
Rochester’s “Fallout Shelter” signs still hanging in there
Once an ominous emblem of the times, Rochester’s fallout shelters signs are now kitschy relics of a bygone era.
A local Holocaust survivor says she’s haunted by images of the Russian invasion of Ukraine
Images of the Russian war in Ukraine haunt Lea Malek, a reminder of what she and her family experienced during World War II.
Iron Tug and Irondequoit Beer Company are brewing beers to raise money for the people of Ukraine
The breweries are partnering with Ukrainian groups.
Rochester couple wants their ‘Net Zero’ home to inspire more affordable, eco-friendly living
With climate change intensifying, Jasmin Singer and Moore Rhys left California for Rochester and made their house more energy efficient.
Redistricting commission for Monroe County gears up for hearings
The commission will likely hold six hearings in April. They’ll be spread across the county and one will happen over Zoom.
Daniel Prude remembered in vigil in downtown Rochester on the 2nd anniversary of his death
Roughly 100 people gathered to mark the date two years after Daniel Prude’s death.
Legislative leaders push back on Hochul’s plans to revise the state’s bail reform laws
As Gov. Kathy Hochul defends her proposed changes to the state’s 2019 landmark bail reform laws, Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie is casting doubt on whether the items will be part of the state budget, which is due in about a week.
Restaurant owners call on lawmakers to permanently legalize to-go cocktails
Gov. Kathy Hochul proposed legalizing to-go cocktails in her budget, but the Assembly and Senate removed it from their plans.
After three decades, iconoclastic rockers Nod still ‘get it’
Columnist Jeff Spevak on three decades of music from a Rochester rock trio.
Superintendent presents work-in-progress RCSD budget proposal
Rochester City School District Superintendent Lesli Myers-Small presented a rough budget to the Board of Education on Tuesday.
Hochul’s memo fails to ease tensions over bail reform
Tensions between Gov. Kathy Hochul and the Legislature are intensifying over a proposal to change the state’s criminal justice laws, with the date for finalizing the state budget just over a week away.
Students’ emotional health top of mind at “Student Speak Out”
Days after a student tried to bring a gun to East High School, mental and emotional health of students was discussed at a virtual town hall on Monday.
Advocates rally to protest Hochul’s ‘betrayal’ on proposed bail reform changes
Advocates say they were caught unaware by a leaked memo that outlined Gov. Hochul’s plans to roll back bail reform.
Gateways Music Festival returns, with some changes
The Gateways Music Festival, a gathering of classical musicians of African descent for concerts, lectures, and other events, is returning April 18 – 24.
Fivebyfive gets ‘heavy’ with ARTISANworks concert Sunday
As the chamber music group fivebyfive begins a new creative chapter, looking back at the track “Blue Jewel” from its debut album provides insight.
This giant spider could be moving to a backyard near you
The Joro spider, which can grow as big as the palm of your hand, could migrate as far north as upstate New York.
Growing list of festivals returning this summer
The Corn Hill Arts Festival joins the Gateways Music Festival, Lilac Festival, CGI Rochester International Jazz Festival, Clothesline Festival and Finger Lakes Grassroots Festival in returning this summer.
NY governor signs laws holding elected officials more accountable for sexual harassment
Some of the laws Gov. Kathy Hochul signed are direct reforms that address abuses under former Gov. Cuomo’s administration.
‘Good cause’ eviction legislation voted down by Rochester City Council
The proposal mobilized landlords, who opposed the measure, as well as renters and tenant advocates, who supported it.
With a record number of free shows, Rochester’s jazz fest returns
After a two-year pandemic-induced hiatus, the CGI Rochester International Jazz Festival hopes you haven’t forgotten it.
Musician Jill Sobule finds inspiration in the news — and lizard people
The trailblazing national musician will play a solo show at The Little on Thursday.
A nonprofit will collect data on how Monroe County’s justice system performs
A new database system from Measures for Justice will track Monroe County’s criminal justice system. The data should give insight into how reforms affect the lives of residents.
REVIEW: ‘Tracy Jones’ is a farcical take on loneliness
“Tracy Jones,” a new play at the JCC CenterStage Theatre, captures the sometimes cringe-inducing feeling of learning how to socialize again.
At Saturday’s concert, Eastman violin professor will search for hope in midst of Ukraine’s tragedy
At the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra’s benefit concert for Ukraine on Saturday, Oleh Krysa will play violin on a concerto called “Question Without Answer.”
City Council to vote on ‘good cause’ eviction legislation
The legislation would require landlords to have certificates of occupancy for their properties before pursuing evictions, among other things.
Sisters of Murphy celebrates 20 years of Irish rock this St. Patrick’s Day
The band’s first gig was meant to be a one-off party, but two decades later Sisters of Murphy has both endured and evolved.
Get a genuine Irish breakfast at Mulconry’s
The Irish breakfast is hard to come by in Rochester, but you can get one — black pudding and all — year round at this Fairport bar.
Council to hold hearing on ‘good cause’ eviction law
The law would bar landlords from filing eviction cases if they don’t have certificates of occupancy for the rental properties in question.
Traditional Irish music sessions transcend stereotypes
For Rochester’s traditional Irish musicians, preserving heritage is more than a once-a-year beer-soaked bar hop.
Monroe County legislators take a second shot at redistricting
County Executive Adam Bello vetoed a previous set of maps, which he viewed as the result of a flawed process.
Sarah De Vallière reclaims her music and her identity
A cross-country move, a divorce, and the COVID-19 pandemic left singer-songwriter De Vallière with a unique opportunity to reshape and re-form her identity.
REVIEW: 2020 and 40/40 visions of change at RoCo
At Rochester Contemporary’s exhibit of prints and collages, the message is in the medium.
Hochul budget includes $100 million for Inner Loop North fill-in
Mayor Malik Evans sees the $100 million investment as one of the biggest development opportunities in modern Rochester history.
City businesses ‘gifting’ weed could be deemed ‘nuisances’ under new bill
A bill before City Council would assess 10 nuisance points to any businesses caught selling cannabis without a license and risk closure.
Founder Sister Grace Miller struggles with leadership change at House of Mercy
On Friday, The House of Mercy announced it has a new executive director, and the organization’s founder says she’s struggling with the transition.
Geva’s gorgeous ‘How to Catch Creation’ explores art and family
Christina Anderson’s masterful script and a compelling cast carry this play about love and art in the Black community, now through March 20.
‘Eastman at 100’ is a quirky – but mission-focused – celebration of the music school
The Eastman School of Music is celebrating its 100th anniversary during the entire school year, including this weekend’s “Eastman Opens the Doors” events.
Monroe County GOP advisor takes leave after promoting Shannon Joy
The Monroe County GOP sent out a press release on behalf of conservative radio personality Shannon Joy, and things got ugly.
Jumaane Williams wants to be governor. Here’s why
NYC Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, a darling of the Working Families Party, is waging a primary against Gov. Kathy Hochul.
Local districts to decide on school masking
It is up to local school districts to decide their masking policies in schools and on school buses beginning Wednesday. March 2 marks the end of the statewide school mask mandate and Monroe County will not be implementing a county-wide mask requirement.
Rochester Fringe Festival announces dates for 2022
After breaking attendance records in 2019, the festival has been a mix of in-person and virtual performances.
Caught in a pinch, CITY staffers rally to deliver magazines
If you’re looking for part-time work that gets you into our community one or two days a month, consider delivering for CITY.
Mask mandate for New York schools to end Wednesday
Gov. Kathy Hochul said she based her decision on lower COVID-19 infection rates and new CDC guidance.
Douglass historian David Anderson receives state’s highest honor
Anderson was awarded the Liberty Medal for lifetime achievement and exceptional community acts.
Family members of Frederick Douglass to receive new memorials
Abolitionists Anna Murray Douglass and her daughter Annie will receive individual graves marking their burials at Mount Hope Cemetery.
Andreas Delfs and RPO deliver energy-packed Beethoven concert
An expressive Andreas Delfs led the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra in an electrifying performance of Beethoven symphonies Thursday.
Film music moves from background to center stage at Kilbourn Hall
“Visual Music 4.0” is an evening of live music played to film at 8 p.m. Saturday at Eastman’s Kilbourn Hall.
Midwinter family activities to cure cabin fever
These family-oriented recreational activities are the perfect antidote to cabin fever.
RPO’s 2022-23 season is a solid blend of the iconic and unusual
The RPO’s balanced 2022-23 season celebrates Beethoven and Brahms while also shining light on the music of Black composers.
How the humble frame went from sidekick to the spotlight
The picture frame — once considered inconsequential — has come into its own as a work of art at museums around the country.
Rochester ed reporter: ‘Let’s stop lying about our schools’
Book review: Justin Murphy’s new book is an extensive examination of Rochester’s troubled schools – and a call to action to fix them.
NYCLU appeals court to get RPD to open disciplinary files
The New York Civil Liberties Union has filed an appellate division case seeking the release of Rochester Police discipline files.
Donny Murakami’s ‘Enfant Terrible’ is a promising full-length debut
Rapper Donny Murakami’s colorful selection of samples, references, and multi-genre nods suggest the work of an older, more experienced musician.
Genesee Johnny navigates the Black roots of the blues
Is a white man playing the blues a quiet cultural appropriation?
Hochul signs bill creating provisional licenses to grow marijuana
But the licenses to grow weed will have a two-year life span and will only be available to the state’s licensed hemp growers.
Jackson Cavalier goes post-Americana with ‘Defend Your Illusion’
Sharp songwriting keeps the sound steady amid shifting styles on “Defend Your Illusion,” Jackson Cavalier’s new album with The Big Dead Waltz.
Try a flight for better balance with your brew
In pursuit of a healthier relationship with beer, CITY beer columnist Gino Fanelli found it in the form of flights.
Jennie Schaff moves on up in the Farash building
Jennie Schaff comes to the foundation from Jewish Family Services. Prior to that, she taught education at Nazareth College.
Adam Bello dishes on his turbulent first two years
County Executive Adam Bello faced a pandemic and a sometimes hostile Legislature in the first half of his four-year term.
State data undercuts the bail reform backlash
Less than 2 percent of criminal defendants in Rochester were arrested on violent felonies while free without bail.
False Pockets do the math, rock on ‘Selfish Prophecies’
False Pockets’s intricate rhythms and group chemistry make for memorable math rock on the full-length album “Selfish Prophecies,” out Feb. 18.
Aldaskeller Wine Co. denied liquor license, seeks appeal
Brandon Opalich, owner of Aldaskeller plans to fight the denial of his liquor license by the State Liquor Authority.
Public school students in Rochester and across New York are graduating at higher rates
The Rochester City School District’s graduation rate increased in 2021, although it still trails the county overall.
Mayor Evans announces Housing Quality Task Force
The 21-member task force consists of housing advocates, providers, city officials and non-profit leaders who will work on policy recommendations and programs to improve housing for Rochester residents.
RCSD superintendent presents preliminary budget numbers for 2022-23
Superintendent Lesli Myers-Small will present her proposal, which is expected to total nearly $800 million, on March 15.
Youth program’s performance to honor African-American inventors
Mentors Inspiring Boys and Girls’ Black History Month performance includes musical and step performances with individual monologues.
Program at Swain helps adaptive skiers beat the winter blues
The Shared Ski Adventures program pairs skiers of all abilities with the adaptive equipment and support they need to move through the snow.
Monroe Community College to join national initiative on racial equity in higher ed
Monroe Community College is joining 18 other universities in an initiative to attain greater racial equity in higher education and in society.
Veterans Outreach Center to expand housing for homeless vets
The Veterans Outreach Center is expanding the Richards House on South Avenue.
Joywave goes on an irony ‘Cleanse’ with new, anthemic pop album
Joywave transcends the cynicism and self-indulgent cleverness of its past albums with the sincere arena pop-rock of “Cleanse,” out Feb. 11.
Councilmember Jose Peo announces bid for Assembly
Rochester City Council member Jose Peo has announced his run against incumbent Sarah Clark for Assembly’s 136th District seat.
Happy Valentine’s Day! You’re ugly, I hate you, and I wish you were dead.
We associate anonymous social mockery with the internet. But “vinegar valentines” were 150 years ahead of the Twitter troll.
Five great places to get take-out for Valentine’s Day dinner
With the cooking off your plate, all you have to do is create the romance.
City looks to move Police Accountability Board into D&C building
Gannett Media Corp. is considering subleasing a portion of the Democrat and Chronicle building to the new Police Accountability Board.
Former Black Panther talks about Black resistance
A new documentary on Black radical activism will be screened at Visual Studies Workshop on Thursday night, with a talkback by activist Jalil Muntaqim.
Businessman Len Morrell set to challenge Brouk for her Senate seat
Len Morrell, a conservative talk show host, has joined a growing pool of GOP candidates vying for State Senate seats.
Forging a festival for Black theater
The Bronze Collective Theatre Festival puts plays by Black artists front and center.
Hochul lifts mask mandate for businesses
Gov. Kathy Hochul says the state will end its indoor mask mandate Thursday — but not at schools yet.
Vijay Iyer talks ‘Musicality’ at Eastman Centennial
The innovative musician, who will give a free talk at the Eastman Centennial celebration Thursday, says music is all around us.
Isaiah makes his own way on 2021 pop-R&B singles
Singer-songwriter-producer Isaiah Franchuk rejects conventional pop music wisdom in favor of organic vocal sounds and unorthodox song structures.
Police Accountability Board hires D&C reporter Will Cleveland
The Police Accountability Board has hired Democrat & Chronicle reporter Will Cleveland as its deputy chief of accountability inspections.
Peter Jemison, longtime site manager at Ganondagon, retires
Peter Jemison, the first Ganondagon State Historic Site manager in Victor, has retired after 35 years.
GOP state lawmakers sue over new district maps approved by Democrats
Republicans in the NYS Legislature began legal action claiming new district maps for congressional and legislative seats signed by Gov. Hochul are gerrymandered.
These are the people who make art come alive in Rochester
What does it mean to curate art, and who’s doing it?
Aldaskeller makes a home for natural wine in Rochester
When Aldaskeller on Gregory Street opens, it will serve as a haven in Rochester for natural wines.
Blackfriars’ ‘Too Much Light’ has laughs, energy, and some cringe
The production stays faithful to the fast-paced, chaotic spirit of the piece, and the cast creates a party-like atmosphere.
Genesee Co-op Federal Credit Union workers form union
The unionization of the credit union’s staff mark a rare occurrence in the world of financial institutions.
‘A Change Is Coming’ to RoCo
A new exhibition featuring three contemporary printmakers comes to Rochester Contemporary Feb. 4-27.
Enveloped by ‘Beyond Van Gogh’
The popular art exhibition “Beyond Van Gogh” comes to Rochester on Feb. 4, providing an immersive experience of the iconic artist’s work.
New York’s mask mandate not expected to end anytime soon
New York’s mask mandate is expected to continue at least for another month.
Pride parade and festival to return to Rochester
A Pride parade and festival returns to Rochester following the collapse of the region’s most prominent LGBTQ+ advocacy group.
Bello promises a year of child care to county subsidy recipients
The county is making several changes to the day care subsidy system that officials say are meant to help parents and stabilize providers.
City set to vote on Rochester International Jazz Festival funding
The Rochester City Council is set to vote this month on setting aside $243,000 for the return of the Jazz Fest.
City to tow curbside snowbound vehicles on Wednesday
Owners of vehicles immobilized by snow on city streets have been given an ultimatum: move ‘em or lose ‘em, at least temporarily.
Tropical paradises: these indoor hot spots will keep you warm this winter
Escape from (winter in) New York.
Donation center set up to aid victims of Pines of Perinton fire
At least 65 people were displaced by the fire. Since then, the town of Perinton has received a flood of donated items.
Community rallies to help families displaced by Pines of Perinton fire
In less than 24 hours, a GoFundMe page has nearly met its $30,000 goal aimed at assisting those displaced by the fire.
10 Questions with Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand
In a wide-ranging interview, the second-term Senator questioned the U.S. Census and called for an overhaul of immigration and gun policy.
LEGO convention coming to Rochester
The BrickUniverse LEGO Fan Convention features displays of world landmarks created from LEGO.
Fire tears through Pines of Perinton, displaces scores of residents
An early morning fire at the Pines of Perinton destroyed six apartments and affected 14 others, forcing dozens of residents from their homes.
Sheldon Silver, disgraced former power broker, dies at 77
Sheldon Silver, one of the most powerful figures in Albany before his conviction on corruption charges, has died in federal custody.
Could Democratic state lawmakers draw New York’s congressional district lines?
A 10-member independent commission has less than two weeks to come up with a new set of maps after legislators rejected its first attempts.
Rediscovering the genius of R. Nathaniel Dett
Who was Eastman School of Music’s first Black graduate?
Geva Theatre Center presents goofy, joyful ‘Airness’
“Airness” strikes a delightfully escapist chord about air guitar contests, but a sexist cliché hits a sour note. The play runs through Feb. 6.
In Rochester, Praying at the Corner of Sorrow and Despair
A small group of dedicated faithful pray for the city’s homicide victims, one senseless death at a time.
Evans folds city violence prevention programs into his office
The city’s violence prevention programs will now work directly under the office of the mayor.
Accused would-be MAG art thief faces new charge
The Rochester man accused of trying to steal a photo from the Andy Warhol exhibit now faces a new burglary charge.
Beer and wine can join popcorn and soda on movie theater menus
The State Liquor Authority has unanimously approved the sale of beer and wine for consumption in movie theaters.
Miguel Meléndez, a ‘collaborator,’ takes the helm of City Council
Meet Miguel Meléndez, the first-term City Councilmember tasked with bringing together a politically charged legislative body.
‘Homegrown’ festival stays at home, goes virtual again
The pandemic forced Homegrown to go virtual last year. Saturday’s event — a survival triumvirate of music, food and beer — will be livestreamed again.
Former mayor for a month James Smith named Council Chief of Staff
Former Mayor-for-a-month James Smith will serve as City Council’s new chief of staff.
A new Dunwoody displayed at the MAG
Shawn Dunwoody’s “Unfinished Business” depicts civil rights uprisings in Rochester’s history to show what hasn’t changed.
Thursday, Cursive, and more bring emo history to Anthology
Thursday headlines a “dream lineup” of influential emo bands, including Cursive and Jeremy Enigk from Sunny Day Real Estate, on Jan. 22.
Council debates erupt over funding for RPD mental health contracts
A quarter of RASE Commission funds are being given to RPD to fund officer mental health training, causing some Councilmembers to cry foul.
Homeless advocates worried by new security plan at Civic Center garage
Monroe County Executive Adam Bello announced increased security at the Civic Center garage, where many of Rochester’s homeless seek refuge during cold weather.
Hochul says budget plan spends more, but will not cause NY to go into debt
Gov. Kathy Hochul’s budget plan spends at a much higher rate than her predecessor’s, but she says it’s all balanced.
Geva’s incoming artistic director wants to tell ‘new stories’
Elizabeth Williamson takes over for Mark Cuddy as artistic director of Rochester’s Geva Theatre Center in June.
Push is on for court access for sexual assault survivors
Known as the Adult Survivors Act, the measure would extend to adults the same rights that the state’s Child Victims Act gives to survivors of childhood sexual abuse.
Staff shortage cuts hours at only 24-hour emergency vet hospital
Veterinary Specialists and Emergency Services in Brighton said a staff shortage will force it to close during the overnight hours until further notice.
Parents and children’s advocates respond to RCSD return to in-person learning
As RCSD students return to in-class instruction, parents and advocates are experiencing mixed feelings amid a surging COVID-19 spike.
Hochul confirms state’s eviction moratorium ends Jan. 15
New York Gov. Kathy Hochul says she won’t extend the COVID-19 pandemic-related eviction moratorium past Jan. 15.
Jon Gary sings the circus of 2021
Rochester musician and cartoonist Jon Gary tries to make sense of the year that was 2021 with his new rock EP “MMXXI.”
State Senate approves voting expansion measures
The measures would continue expanded absentee voting and would move voter registration deadlines closer to their respective election days.
RCSD students at 26 schools to resume in-person classes
Students at the remaining 21 Rochester city schools will continue remote learning due to staff shortages.
Boundless Connections Technology Center helps guide tech careers
Boundless Connections in the Sibley Building aims to be a piece in the tech career pipeline.
City seeks $5 million in COVID relief for lead paint removal
The city of Rochester is planning to ask for $5 million in COVID relief money to fund lead removal in low-income housing.
The Soup Queen’s creations, and where to find them
Savory, spice, and everything nice. “Soup Queen” Candace Doell turns seasonal veggies, kitchen-scrap stock, and fresh herbs into in-demand, hearty meals.
In State of the State speech, Hochul vows to bring New York out of pandemic darkness
In her first State of the State address, Gov. Kathy Hochul vowed to pull New York out of the pandemic and into a new era.
Eclectic Overdrive hosts world music at Flying Squirrel Community Space
New to Rochester, Adam Arritola of Eclectic Overdrive presents adventurous music inspired by Persian, Indian, and American folk traditions Jan. 8.
Rochester rock band Upward Groove returns after two-year hiatus
After an extended absence, Eli Flynn and his band Upward Groove take the stage again on Jan. 7 with their blend of rock, funk, soul, and ska.
Rare demo of Super Mario Bros. discovered at Strong Museum
A cataloguer at The Strong National Museum of Play recently discovered a PC demo of Super Mario Bros. 3 that never came to fruition.
A mayor’s plea: ‘Someone knows who shot a 14-year-old baby’
Three days into his mayoralty, Malik Evans pleads for information in the killing of 14-year-old Julius Greer Jr., the city’s first homicide of 2022.
LaMar, a Democrat, to caucus with GOP and preside over split Legislature
Legislator Sabrina LaMar has pledged to work not just with Republicans, but with Legislature Democrats and County Executive Adam Bello.
Meléndez, Lupien named City Council leaders as new members sworn in
Miguel Meléndez and Mary Lupien will serve as the new president and vice president of the Rochester City Council.
Evans takes office as Rochester’s mayor
At his inauguration, Mayor Malik Evans said like many cities, Rochester has its challenges. But he wants to focus on potential solutions.
Matt O’Brian emerges with new music project Flying Object
Matt O’Brian retains his soulful charm but ditches the roots-reggae of former bands Giant Panda Guerilla Dub Squad and Thunder Body on his new EP “No Rewind.”
Last call at the Tap and Mallet
Tap and Mallet served as a catalyst for Rochester’s craft beer culture. After nearly 15 years, it will have its final last call.
What can $10 million in public money buy the village of Newark? Officials hope a lot.
$10 million in Downtown Revitalization Initiative funds are heading to Newark. Officials hope it will be transformative.
Sam Nitsch turns to polished pop grandeur on ‘NEOWISE’
The ukulele-slingin’ singer-songwriter Sam Nitsch opts for adventurous, upbeat melodies with big arrangements on his debut studio album.
The year of living dangerously — a 2021 arts recap
The Rochester arts scene did its best to dance beyond the reach of COVID in 2021.
Unlocking Parkinson’s one selfie at a time
University of Rochester researchers are using selfies to detect early symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.
Finger Lakes wines are having a moment
The Finger Lakes achieved a breakthrough on the world stage in 2021, with rieslings being compared to the best anywhere.
Grace Conheady’s voice makes ‘Hello, Goodbye in Between’ sing
Local singer-songwriter Grace Conheady releases “Hello, Goodbye, In Between,” a debut album with sprawling vocals and intimate lyricism.
A crisis in urban democracy
Municipal elections in New York’s largest cities continue to be partisan, though other places have switched to non-partisan and runoff voting.
Meet the spooky metal man of Rochester
Beneath the corpse paint and trench coat is a really nice guy.
Moving Mountains plays the proggy side of pop-rock on ‘This Quiet World’
Rochester rock band Moving Mountains makes music that balances jam band-friendly song structures and accessible riffs on its debut album.
Agaaze makes chill electro-pop on ‘A Portal Inside’
On the electro-pop album “A Portal Inside,” Agaaze moves beyond his beginnings as a classical and jazz guitarist and gives EDM a chill pill.
Rochester street art darling Dellarious sets up shop at the Public Market
The ubiquitous, Rochester-centric street art of Mike Dellaria, aka Dellarious, gets its own brick-and-mortar shop.
Is Rochester’s lily-white reggae scene a pale imitation, or the real deal?
The majority of Rochester’s reggae bands are white and have no ties to Jamaica — the birthplace of reggae — beyond a deep love for the music.
Michelle Daniels is all in on the Douglass family
Recently, a mural of Frederick Douglass and his family was unveiled at the Rochester airport, which bears his name. Daniels made it happen.
Protest is personal in Joshua Rashaad McFadden’s Eastman Museum art show
The 31-year-old Rochester photographer’s rare early-career retrospective at George Eastman Museum runs through June 19.
CITY’s 2021 Playlist: Music From When You Were Away
Reflect on a strange and trying year with an eclectic mix of Rochester’s finest local music.
AltBar brings sober alternatives to Rochester’s bar scene
Over the influence? Rochester is joining a number of cities that offer booze-free nightlife options. Check out AltBar’s zero-proof cocktail events in January.
High hopes for weed market at Winter Cannabis Carnival
The Winter Cannabis Carnival at the Main Street Armory offered a clear vision of the future of Rochester’s recreational marijuana industry.
Workers at veterinary emergency hospital pursue a union
The employees have become increasingly frustrated with their working conditions since the hospital was sold earlier this year.
Hochul: COVID-19 winter surge is here
Hochul said she hopes the recalcitrant counties who won’t support the mask mandate will change their minds if the winter surge worsens.
Evans makes another round of appointments to his administration
Mayor-elect Malik Evans has yet to announce some key appointments, including that of deputy mayor.
New bill carves path toward universal child care in New York
A bill introduced by Brooklyn Democrat Jabari Brisport could provide universal child care to all New Yorkers.
City to use COVID relief money to fund a tour boat
The city will use $150,000 in COVID relief funds to partially fund a new tour boat on the Genesee River.
Experiential gifts for everyone on your list
With a little help from local Twitter folks, we curated a list of local, experiential gifts for the person in your life who has everything, enjoys learning a new skill, or just loves a good adventure.
Pittsford village to hold referendum on marijuana shops, lounges
The Village of Pittsford has opted out of recreational cannabis businesses, becoming the first in Monroe County to go to referendum.
Advocates call on state lawmakers to reinstate disability advocacy office
A bill reestablishing a centralized advocacy office for those with disabilities has passed the State Assembly and Senate, but has yet to be submitted to Gov. Hochul.
Rochester City Council approves pilot program for Guaranteed Basic Income
City Council voted unanimously for a $2.2 million pilot program that would provide a basic monthly income for 175 households at or below poverty level.
Monroe County Legislature easily passes 2022 budget
The 2022 county budget, totaling $1.28 billion, reduces property taxes, provides additional public safety funding, and bolsters smaller arts organizations.
Evans launches cannabis planning commission
Malik Evans’s Cannabis Planning Commission is an effort to insure Rochester’s pot marketplace is profitable, diverse, and equitable.
Hochul’s mask mandate draws blowback
Gov. Kathy Hochul’s statewide mask mandate is facing criticism and lack of compliance.
Zilch Fletcher’s 1970s novelty folk album finds new life in streaming era
“Nobody’s Dreamboat,” the local novelty album from 1977 that influenced “Weird Al” Yankovic, will be celebrated with a Dec. 17 concert at Lovin’ Cup.
Statewide mask requirement goes into effect Monday
Gov. Kathy Hochul has ordered that masks be worn in public places unless a business or venue requires patrons to show proof of vaccination.
AG Tish James drops bid for governor, will seek reelection
NY Attorney General Letitia James bowed out of the 2022 race for governor, leaving three Democratic candidates to vie for the primary.
Council to vote on establishing a housing trust fund
On Tuesday, City Council could vote an a proposal from former Mayor Lovely Warren that would set out to help keep people in their homes.
Pittsford town officials reject cannabis dispensaries, lounges in divided vote
New York municipalities have through Dec. 31 to act if they want to take advantage of a state law letting them block the retail businesses.
More join calls for SUNY chancellor to step down
Following the release of a 55-minute recording of him berating an employee, the SUNY chancellor is facing renewed calls to resign.
Local wine picks to serve and gift this season
From game night bubbly to in-law-appropriate pours, here are some local finds for gifting this season.
Go-to gifts from female makers
We’ve heard the “girl boss” term is a bit dated, but there’s something to be said for the swath of local women producing cool things in Rochester.
Rochester New York FC to join new soccer league in 2022
The soccer team formerly known as the Rochester Rhinos will join the new MLS NEXT Pro league as its only independent club and play its home games at MCC.
‘Get Back’: the magic of The Beatles
The new doc “Get Back” shows The Beatles at the end of their run. Rochester musician and Beatles gearhead Andy Babiuk says it also reveals their magical chemistry.
Brockport greenlights marijuana dispensaries, lounges
In Monroe County, villages and towns have begun debating whether they want pot shops, with a mixed bag of results.
COVID deaths in Monroe County top 1,500
The death toll of 1,506 as of last week underscores a grim milestone as cases in the area escalate.
$13 million in COVID funds aimed at the Riverside Hotel
Among Mayor Lovely Warren’s last acts in office, $13 million in COVID relief funding will go toward renovating part of the Riverside Hotel.
Seth Faergolzia releases retrospective album spanning 20 years
Freak-folk musician Seth Faergolzia’s new album “Not Only Because But Also Because” is both a collection of rarities and a career-spanning retrospective.
$20 million in state funds headed to downtowns in Rochester, Newark
Rochester’s $10 million in Downtown Revitalization Investment funds is expected to be used for the intersection of Main St. and Clinton Ave.
Hochul: five Omicron cases detected in NY not cause for alarm
Confirmed cases of Omicron variant, bans on elective surgery, and a new health commissioner for New York State.
Effort underway to overturn Sweden law blocking marijuana dispensaries, lounges
One woman already has plans to establish a dispensary in the town and she already owns the building in which she wants to open it.
Roc Holiday Village returns to MLK Park
Roc Holiday Village hosts family-friendly festivities — including free ice skating and visits with Santa — from Dec. 3 through 19.
Rochester Mayor James Smith diagnosed with COVID-19
James Smith took the oath of office Thursday in isolation after having tested positive for COVID-19.
Lake Avenue stabbing: A tribute to Tony
Anthony (Tony) Lovett, a clerk at the Lake Avenue Mini Market, had dreams of teaching young people how to paint houses.
30 Minutes with 30-Day Accidental Mayor James Smith
James Smith never wanted to be the mayor of Rochester. But there may be no one better prepared for the short-term job.
CMAC announces summer concerts with Keith Urban, Robert Plant
CMAC looks ahead to its 2022 summer concert series as newly announced shows featuring Keith Urban and Robert Plant with Alison Krauss go on sale.
24 New York beers to try this holiday season
Let your holiday helpers at CITY steer you toward some good ales, lagers, sours, and even a barleywine to slake your holiday thirst.
How Rochester Tuba Christmas became a low-brass holiday highlight
The popular, oomphatic holiday concert known as Rochester Tuba Christmas returns to Kodak Hall on Dec. 12 for its 38th year.
Slow cooker recipes for fast and satisfying food
Leave these hearty winter meals in the slow cooker all day, and come home to dinner ready to eat.
Haunting HIV/AIDS posters are now art in new RIT Press book
A powerful vintage poster exhibit at the University of Rochester challenges how we look at HIV.
Monroe County issues state of emergency after rise in COVID-19 hospitalizations
Monroe County Executive Adam Bello has issued new safety measures, effective Dec. 1, after an increase of COVID-related hospitalizations,
Lovely Warren: ‘History will be kind’ to me
A day before she is to resign, Mayor Lovely Warren said she believed she would be remembered as a mayor who stayed focused.
Joe Brucato returns to the spotlight with ‘Number 44’
Rochester rock veteran Joe Brucato’s new album “Number 44” features strong backing from Joyous Noise and guest appearances from lSteve Gadd and Tony Levin.
Buffalo rock trio Organ Fairchild returns to Abilene
The trio Organ Fairchild brings its hard-groovin’ instrumental rock to Abilene Bar & Lounge on Dec. 4.
Genesee Brewery’s keg tree returns
Genesee Brewery is planning a series of small-scale festivities dubbed “12 Days of Keg Tree” to celebrate the season.
Drummer Jared Schonig showcases his compositions on stunning two-disc debut
Eastman School alum and drummer Jared Schonig’s ambitious double allbum “Two Takes” features quintet and big-band versions of eight original tunes.
Take a post-feast street art stroll
After filling up on turkey, stuffing, and pie, walk it off while checking out these fresh-air art treks.
Rochester Police Accountability Board case heads to New York’s top court
Previously, Supreme Court Justice John Ark issued a decision stripping the board of its disciplinary powers, which a higher court affirmed.
Cammy Enaharo releases evocative music video for the single ‘When You Call’
Rochester singer-songwriter Cammy Enaharo’s music video for the single “When You Call” is a powerful statement on the importance of creative expression.
New York’s Climate Action Council co-chairs optimistic about emission reduction goals
With limited progress made at the United Nations Climate Change Conference, the New York State Climate Action Council is moving forward with its own goals.
Fivebyfive turns classical music loose with new album ‘Of and Between’
The Rochester chamber ensemble fivebyfive continues to turn classical music on its head with the art-inspired album “Of and Between.”
Sinclair files sexual harassment lawsuit against Flagler-Mitchell, Monroe County
The lawsuit also alleges that Legislator Ernest Flagler-Mitchell encouraged a campaign of harassment against LaKaya Sinclair
Susan John, fighter for women and labor in Assembly, dies at 64
Susan John represented Rochester in the Assembly for 20 years. The incumbent she defeated called her a “definite one-termer.”
Assembly report backs AG’s findings that Cuomo sexually harassed multiple women
The report also finds that Cuomo used state resources by directing his top staff to help him write a book on his pandemic leadership.
Teagan and the Tweeds return to Three Heads Brewing for Thanksgiving Eve
Rochester rock band Teagan and the Tweeds plays its annual Thanksgiving Eve show at Three Heads Brewing on Nov. 24.
Marking 40 years, Borinquen Dance Theatre upholds culture and community
Founded by Nydia Padilla-Rodriguez in 1981, Borinquen Dance Theatre has been a beacon of Puerto Rican culture in Rochester.
Award-winning painter Brian O’Neill passes the paintbrush
Brian O’Neill is a master of both photo-real and abstract styles, and teaches his skillset to studio students.
Financial literacy classes prep teens for real world money management
Legislation could require schools across New York to instruct students in financial literacy.
Critics pan City Council tax break for developers
Supporters of the Commercial Urban Exemption call it a boon for Rochester development. Opponents call it a tax break for luxury apartments.
Rory Fitzpatrick: I-Town is his town
Rory Fitzpatrick won the Irondequoit supervisor race over Joe Morelle Jr. as a political rookie up against a well-oiled machine.
Andreas Delfs brings holiday tradition of ‘Hansel and Gretel’ to RPO
The opera “Hansel and Gretel” is a regular holiday tradition in Germany,an RPO Music Director Andreas Delfs brings it to Rochester on Nov. 20.
Rochester-area Realtors’ group aims to boost Black homeownership
The Greater Rochester Association of Realtors’ Black Caucus is also focused on developing the careers of Black real estate professionals.
Hochul rallies business leaders on return to workplace
While acknowledging the unease New Yorkers are feeling as the pandemic lingers, Hochul warned about continuing supply chain issues that cause product shortages.
Rochester police recruits to face grilling by civilians
The Civilian Public Safety Interview Panel will screen new recruits for implicit bias and other red flags, and then make a recommendation.
Mayor-elect Evans gives update on violence, plans for transition
Mayor-elect Evans offered thoughts on violence, bail reform, and community collaboration at a media briefing Wednesday.
County poised to pony up for public arts funding
Small arts organizations are the target of a proposed big hike in public funding for the arts in the Monroe County budget.
Evan Meulemans makes ‘Waves’ with more expansive pop-rock palette, less folk
With “Waves,” singer-songwriter Evan Meulemans moves away from intimate coffeehouse folk toward a bigger, layered pop-rock sound.
The Pickle Mafia combines jazz, funk, and R&B for ‘A Night to Remember’
On the EP “a night to remember,” Rochester jazz trio The Pickle Mafia prioritizes piano explorations, relentless grooves, and flexible rhythms.
The Campbell Brothers find meaning in ‘A Love Supreme’
The late Darick Campbell lives on in the newly released live album documenting The Campbell Brothers’ take on John Coltrane’s “A Love Supreme.”
Two Truths releases unorthodox debut EP ‘Electric Campfire’
Two Truths’ debut EP “Electric Campfire” bridges ’70s folk and ’00s indie rock to create an impressive, clever first effort.
East High-UR partnership is extended
The school’s superintendent Shaun Nelms said it’s ultimately the voice and advocacy of the students that makes it work.
Rochester’s Lilac Festival will return in 2022 with three-weekend format
The dates for the 2022 Rochester Lilac Festival have been announced: May 6-8, May 12-15, and May 19-22.
Democrats poised to take Monroe County Legislature for first time in 30 years
If Democrats prevail, it would mark the first time since 1991 that it had a unified government in Monroe County.
Rochester vaccination site administering vaccines to children ages 5 to 11
The Rochester Educational Opportunity Center on Chestnut Street is among the state vaccination sites that will serve 5- to 11-year-olds.
Cuomo harassment probe transcripts released, including former governor’s testimony
The transcripts offer an expansive look at the sexual harassment claims against the former governor, and his interpretations of events.
Stars align for Strasenburgh Planetarium, Vanishing Sun collab
After being postponed by the pandemic, “Impressions of the Infinite” will be performed live at the Strasenburgh Planetarium on Nov. 12 and 13.
Irondequoit to allow marijuana dispensaries, lounges
Irondequoit officials scrapped a measure that would have opted the town out of cannabis dispensaries, lounges, and bars and opted in.
COVID-19 fueled the nursing shortage but also inspired a new generation of nurses
With a shortage in nurses since COVID-19, medical institutions in the Rochester area look to bring in new nursing students.
Music heals Hanna PK on new album ‘Blues All Over My Shoes’
Rochester blues musician Hanna PK reflects on the saving power of music before the album release show for “Blues All Over My Shoes” on Nov. 12.
Bello’s budget plan slashes legislature fund, slightly decreases tax rate
County Executive Adam Bello proposed a $1.28 billion budget that would boost spending on public safety and the arts, among other things.
Former Greece Police Chief Andrew Forsythe faces drunken driving charge
In announcing the charges, Monroe County DA Sandra Doorley said the public’s trust in Greece police has been damaged.
Our Lady Peace plays intimate show at Photo City Music Hall
Canadian rock band Our Lady Peace has emerged from the quarantine with new music and a small-club tour bound for Photo City Music Hall on Nov. 9.
Gates opts out of cannabis retail, Irondequoit considers similar move
Irondequoit will hold a public hearing on Nov. 9 regarding its opt-out proposal. Gates residents have 45 days to challenge the new town law.
Ghosts in the machines at RoCo’s ‘Messages & Mediums’
Two artists at Rochester Contemporary deal with communicating across great divides in a time of mass death and physical distancing.
Japanese indie film ‘Beyond the Infinite Two Minutes’ is a high-energy, original adventure
The Anomaly film festival closes on Sunday, Nov. 7 with Junta Yamaguchi’s wacky, at times clunky, but ultimately endearing “Beyond the Infinite Two Minutes.”
Rochester City Council halts vote on RPD outside some RCSD schools
The possibility emerged after a rash of violent acts in and around middle and high schools since the school year began.
Anomaly film festival presents silly, nostalgic kung fu flick ‘New York Ninja’
With only the film negatives from the 1984 kung fu movie “New York Ninja” remaining, the newly reconstructed version retains the absurdity and nostalgia of the original.
Rochester Jazz Festival to return to downtown in 2022
After being cancelled two years in a row, the Jazz Fest will return to downtown Rochester in 2022, organizers announced on Friday.
Anomaly film festival continues Friday with imaginative, wildly erotic ‘After Blue’
Bertrand Mandico’s imaginative, erotic film “After Blue” — which imagines a planet with only women — tries to be feminist but suffers from objectification.
Chris Gethard brings quirky, conversational comedy to Anthology
Comedian Chris Gethard’s performance at Anthology on Nov. 6 includes a live episode of his podcast “Beautiful/Anonymous” and his stand-up set.
Former RPD Chief La’Ron Singletary announces run for Congress
Former RPD Chief La’Ron Singletary launched his run for Congress Thursday, lamenting police defunding, vaccine mandates, and leftism.
2021 Anomaly film festival opens with the sweet, strange ‘Strawberry Mansion’
The eccentric film “Strawberry Mansion” opens this year’s Anomaly film festival on Nov. 4. Co-director Albert Birney says the idea was born in Rochester.
Voters approve change to NY Constitution on ‘clean’ environment, reject proposals on elections
New York state’s voters have rejected proposals for same-day voter registration and no-excuse absentee ballots, but approved an amendment on the environment.
‘Mystery Science Theater 3000’ arrives in Rochester, with a lifelong fan as the lead
The cult classic MST3K comes to the Auditorium Theatre, with Emily Marsh as the first woman to play the role show creator Joel Hodgson originated.
Tight races leave control of the Monroe County Legislature uncertain
With several close races and thousands of absentee ballots not yet returned, it’s not certain who will control the Leg in 2022.
Rochester school board gets two fresh faces
Camille Simmons and James Patterson joined longtime incumbent Cynthia Elliott in winning the election Tuesday.
City Council leans progressive with two new members
Stanley Martin and Kim Smith, well-known social activists, were elected Tuesday to seats on the nine-member City Council.
Malik Evans elected mayor of Rochester
Malik Delany Evans, a minister’s son whose quest to be a force in politics was a childhood ambition, was elected mayor of Rochester on Tuesday.
City lawyers up for Singletary lawsuit
City lawyers typically defend the city in lawsuits, but in this case it can’t, given it’s already defending Singletary in another lawsuit.
Five recording studios making noise in the music world
Far from an exhaustive list, here are five local recording studios making moves in the music scene.
Malik Evans casts ‘bittersweet’ ballot on his late father’s birthday
The general election is the first that Evans has been without his father and mentor, Lawrance Lee Evans Sr., who would have turned 76 today.
Ithaca musician Janet Batch brings small-town songs to Abilene for CD release show
Ithaca-based country-folk musician Jan Batch writes songs inspired by her small-town roots and brings them to Abilene Bar & Lounge on Nov. 4.
Early voting ends; Tuesday is Election Day
On Tuesday, polls will be open across the state from 6 a.m to 9 p.m.
New York’s redistricting ballot measure draws mixed reviews
The state’s current redistricting commission is gridlocked, as Democratic members support one set of maps and Republicans another.
The art and introspection of Rork Maiellano
Isolation opens a window for illustrator Rork Maiellano.
Suburban Plaza’s ‘Have a Good Time’ EP is both challenging and catchy pop music
Suburban Plaza continues to combine unsettling messages with irresistible pop music on its new EP about modern dating, “Have a Good Time.”
A home base and small plates at Green Zebra
Green Zebra offers classy catering and more with its prix fixe dinners and cooking classes.
Thanksgiving sides to share that are easy to prepare
These fresh takes on classic Thanksgiving side dishes will make a return to holiday gatherings special.
Indoor theater returns to Blackfriars with compelling one-woman show ‘Pretty Fire’
Blackfriars Theatre’s production of “Pretty Fire,” featuring a warm, open-hearted performance by Adryanna Elmendorf, runs through Nov. 7.
Spencer. builds his own neo-soul world on debut album ‘Are U Down?’
On Rochester native Spencer.’s debut album for the indie label 4AD, the vibe is all-important as he draws from soul, R&B, jazz, and hip-hop.
Replaced Douglass statue gives city another chance ‘to come together’
The head of the organization that owns the Frederick Douglass statues says they may be auctioned off next year.
Happy Gut equals happy heart
Happy Gut Sanctuary fosters community with fermented tea on tap.
Former Gov. Andrew Cuomo accused of criminal forcible touching
Cuomo resigned as governor in August after a state attorney general report concluded that he had sexually harassed multiple women.
Cusp steps into the world of synth-pop on new single ‘I Can’t Die’
Cusp’s new single “I Can’t Die” features a solo performance from frontwoman Jen Bender in a detour from the band’s post-punk sound.
No weed licenses until 2023, state cannabis board chair says
The state Cannabis Control Board’s chair said any licenses for cannabis dispensaries face at least an 18-month wait.
Vaccine mandate for schools not needed, Hochul says, but still on the table
A vaccine mandate for schools isn’t coming yet, but Gov. Kathy Hochul isn’t ruling it out.
Happy Birthday to Us: Fifty Years of CITY
Launched as a weekly newspaper in October 1971, CITY was the blood, sweat, and tears of its founders, Bill and Mary Anna Towler.
Ballot propositions that expand access to voting face GOP backlash
The November election includes ballot propositions that would expand absentee voting and allow for same-day voter registration in New York state.
Foodlink employees demand union representation
A group called Foodlink United is pushing to unionize the food bank’s workers due to higher demand for services, understaffing, and COVID-19 health risks.
This is Malik Evans: Everything you ever wanted to know about Rochester’s next mayor
Who is this 41-year old mayor-to-be who thinks he has the solutions to Rochester’s many problems?
Syracuse the best beer city in New York? No way.
A dubious survey recently named Syracuse as the best beer city in New York. No way. Uh-uh. Nope.
Colorblind James’s music stopped, and then it started again
The Colorblind James Experience’s two sold-out shows at Abilene may have been more than just a one-time tribute to Chuck Cuminale and his music.
Taco Bell eyes Rowe Photo site on Mt. Hope Avenue
Rowe Photo’s home has been on Mt. Hope Avenue since 1969, and Taco Bell has made the company an offer on its site.
Meet the Rochester pianist who makes silent movies sing
As the accompanist for The Dryden Theatre’s “Silent Tuesdays” series, Philip Carli keeps silent films alive by hitting all the right notes.
Feds, state renew commitment to AIM Photonics
The American Institute of Manufacturing Photonics will receive $321 million to fund an additional seven years of the project.
New York cannabis board says businesses giving away marijuana are breaking the law
Are stores giving away weed with pricey T-shirts exploiting a loophole in state law? The Cannabis Control Board chair says no, it’s illegal.
Early voting under way in Monroe County
Voters can cast their ballots through Oct. 31. Election Day is on Tuesday, Nov. 2.
Pittsford village moves to hold a vote on welcoming weed shops
Reluctant to take a stand on cannabis dispensaries, town and village leaders are letting residents vote on the matter.
Bicycle Brothers opens this weekend with live music and free coffee
Bicycle Brothers Coffee, the latest venture from Jurassic Farms owner Aaron Rubin, opens Oct. 23 and 24 with plenty of live music.
Punk band Mannequin Pussy returns to Rochester to headline Bug Jar
The Philadelphia-based punk band Mannequin Pussy plays alongside Angel Du$t and Pinkshift for a high-energy show at Bug Jar on Oct. 23.
Vacancy study: Rochester doesn’t qualify for rent control
The survey says that the group of apartment buildings studied has a vacancy rate of about 9 percent.
Monroe County Legislature could go either way. Here are the races to watch.
All 29 seats in the Monroe County Legislature up for grabs in November, giving voters a chance to influence the makeup of county government.
With spotlight on Black maternal health crisis, efforts underway to eliminate disparities
Black pregnant women face a medical system which often feels as if it’s working against their needs, and advocates say it’s time for change.
Rochester City School unions ask district to address safety concerns with police, parents balk
Student resource officers were eliminated in 2020, but growing issues with violence have some calling for a return.
Paying tribute to The Colorblind James Experience
Former members of the Rochester rock band The Colorblind James Experience play two sold-out shows at Abilene Bar & Lounge this weekend.
Hickey Freeman looks to add 100 jobs immediately
The fine clothier says a few clothing brands are planning to move their operations to Hickey Freeman’s factory on North Clinton Avenue.
Lessons in inclusive birding at Braddock Bay Park
Tuesday’s free Adaptive and Inclusive Birding Workshop at Braddock Bay aims to remove barriers to the popular outdoor activity.
Morelle, local booze-makers urge vigilance against spotted lanternfly
The spotted lanternfly poses a threat to New York’s vineyards and hop bines, and squashing the threat early is the best remedy.
Consumer confidence nose-dives amid inflation, supply chain problems
A new poll from Siena College shows that consumer sentiment among New Yorkers dropped nearly 12 points since the second quarter.
The Little renames theater for Jane and Larry Glazer
The Glazers were trustees of The Little and its parent, WXXI Public Media, and co-chaired the popular “Go Public” fundraising campaign.
Finger Lakes governments could net $53 million from opioid lawsuits
Finger Lakes governments could receive more than $53 million for addiction treatment programs from settlements with pharmaceutical companies.
Activists call for NY state to fund affordable housing at Hotel Cadillac
Activists are calling for state investment into the decaying hotel to give the city’s homeless population a place to stay.
Witness Palestine Film Festival’s documentary-heavy 10th year
Marking one decade of activism, the Witness Palestine Film Festival continues its educational and human rights mission.
Mary Monroe and the spiritual healing of music and dance
Although COVID-19 temporarily sidelined Mary Monroe of Nate and Mary’s World Music Quartet, it was music and dance that kept her going.
ROC COVID-19 ends daily pandemic health screenings, for good reason
The partners behind ROC COVID-19 say advancements in data collection since the beginning of the pandemic made their approach a bit dated.
Natural immunity is real — but it’s risky, local health officials say
Local health officials and a study from NIH concur that immunity achieved by vaccination is more effective against COVID-19 than natural immunity.
‘It’s a game-changer’: Ontario County schools get rapid, on-site COVID testing
School districts in Ontario County are launching a rapid on-site PCR testing program to limit student absences and minimize COVID quarantines.
Hochul, in first 45 days in office, has dealt with big challenges facing state
Gov. Kathy Hochul asked the public for 45 days to make the transition and start implementing key changes. Here’s what she’s done in that time.
Primary winners try to lock in Council seats
In this year’s City Council elections, 11 candidates are battling it out for one of the five seats that are up for grabs.
RPD says suspect shot and killed during apparent robbery at a Family Dollar store
The shooting of a robbery suspect on West Main Street marks the fourth person to be killed in altercations with law enforcement in 2021.
Grant will support community gardens in Beechwood
A coalition of community organizations will buy six community garden properties from the city, enhance them, and develop programs for them.
Rochester police Chief Herriott-Sullivan resigning Oct. 13
On Wednesday, RPD Chief Cynthia Herriott-Sullivan submitted her resignation letter to Mayor Lovely Warren.
Mary Cariola Center, URMC to study how COVID-19 affects people with disabilities
Mary Cariola Center is collaborating with UR Medicine’s Del Monte Center for Neuroscience to research how COVID-19 impacts people with disabilities.
Geva Theatre Center welcomes back audiences with fun, rowdy ‘Vietgone’
In its return to indoor productions, Geva Theatre Center presents “Vietgone,” an irreverent reimagining of the Vietnamese American experience.
Greg Townson remembers Rochester Music Hall of Famer Pee Wee Ellis
The late saxophonist Pee Wee Ellis was known for his work with James Brown and Van Morrison. But Ellis was also a key figure in the Rochester music scene.
Mayor Lovely Warren to resign by Dec. 1 under plea deal
Mayor Lovely Warren will step down from office by Dec. 1 under a plea deal she accepted to resolve the criminal cases against her.
Irondequoit community center advances former mall’s evolution
Town officials expect the facility to open fully on Oct. 18, though youth programs are set to begin Oct. 11.
Roc Arts United launches central resource site for artists and orgs
The arts advocacy group launched a new website that lists opportunities and resources for local artists and small arts organizations.
Remembering influential Rochester choral conductor Roger Wilhelm
Rochester conductor Roger Wilhelm — a titan of the local choral music community — has died at 84.
Mayor Lovely Warren goes to trial on campaign finance charges
Jury selection begins Monday in the campaign finance criminal trial of Rochester Mayor Lovely Warren and two of her associates.
Boy Jr. teases new album with two TikTok-inspired singles
Boy Jr. continues to bring her winning TikTok formula to listeners with the original song “Simping for the Villain” and a “Mr. Brightside” cover.
Need to know: vaccine mandates, nursing homes, booster shots
Monroe County and health care officials met Thursday to update residents on how the vaccine mandates have impacted county systems and protocols.
Best of Rochester: The winners . . .
This year, some 10,349 discerning CITY readers cast 426,656 votes to determine the Best of Rochester winners across 110 categories. Here, we present the top picks of the people, places, and things that make Rochester home.
Best of Rochester: Food & Drink
Hankering for burgers, baked goods, or beer? CITY readers come here . . .
Best of Rochester: Recreation
From first dates to dancing and shooting stick to shooting hoops, CITY readers have the scoop . . .
Best of Rochester: Goods & Services
Whether you’re looking for flowers, a haircut, or that special gift for a four-legged friend, CITY readers recommend . . .
Best of Rochester: Who we are
They rise above the crowd, they make CITY readers proud . . .
Best of Rochester: Arts & Entertainment
Nightlife, music, theater, and art, CITY readers know them by heart . . .
Genesee bets on Cran Orange Kellerbier for the fall
The brewery is touting the beer as an autumnal answer to the wildly popular Ruby Red Kolsch.
RPD launches site for cold cases
There have been 554 unsolved homicides in the city of Rochester since 1969.
Hochul appoints new health commissioner, copes with vaccine mandate staffing shortages
After being implicated in an alleged coverup of nursing home deaths, Health Commissioner Howard Zucker has been replaced by Mary Bassett.
‘Water is Life’ mural by Seneca artist installed on the Genesee
Artist Peter Jemison’s new mural depicts the Haudenosaunee creation story and acknowledges the original inhabitants of the region.
School 3 renamed for trailblazing Black educator Alice Holloway Young
The Adams Street school has been renamed from the Nathaniel Rochester Middle School to the Dr. Alice Holloway Young School of Excellence.
Rochester school board to get new blood
There are four candidates for three open seats, but one of those candidates is not actively campaigning, leaving the race all but settled.
Monroe County pays millions to out-of-county community colleges
Every year, hundreds of Monroe County residents head to community college elsewhere, and millions of county tax dollars go with them.
Rochester’s first meadery finds a home at the Hungerford
History’s “oldest drink” surfaces in Rochester at the new Shertbriar Meadery.
Black, Armed, and Aware
The growth of groups like the Rochester African American Firearms Association mirrors a surge in gun sales to Black Americans.
New Horizons celebrates 30 years of making music with Rochester seniors
What started as a local music group for senior citizens has grown into a vast nonprofit network of 10,000 participants in more than 230 ensembles.
Cammy Enaharo searches for ‘Real Love’ with new single
Originally written for Gold Koa, “Real Love” features singer-songwriter Cammy Enaharo’s vivid storytelling and rich vocal tone.
Negus Irap presents his hip-hop calling card with ‘My Name Is Guss’
Corey Waterman — aka Negus Irap — showcases a whip-smart wit and untiring flow on his street-wise album, “My Name Is Guss.”
The surreal and strange work of ‘Salut’
Bradd Young, aka Salut, makes the leap to full-time artist.
As opioid epidemic rages on, supervised injection sites still at a stalemate
Supervised injection sites were at one time seemingly coming to New York. As the opioid epidemic rages on, the prospect is at a standstill.
Aaron Lipp has ‘Nothing to Lose’
Meet the musical chameleon at the forefront of the Finger Lakes roots scene.
South Wedge Food Program moving to Avenue D
The South Wedge Food Program, which has called 68 Ashland Street home for nearly 50 years, will be moving to Avenue D.
Folkfaces Fest V features charismatic storytellers, regional roots bands
Tyler Westcott presents the fifth annual Folkfaces Fest, a high-energy roots music weekend, from Sept. 30 through Oct. 3 in Darien Center.
New William Warfield bust is one dream ‘about many dreams’
A bust of William Warfield near the Eastman School of Music pays tribute to the prolific artist and son of Rochester.
Hochul seeks to ease hospital staffing shortages through executive order
Gov. Kathy Hochul’s order will call in the National Guard and allow New York to import health care workers from other states and countries.
Auditorium Theatre joins venues requiring proof of vaccination to see a show
As of October 1, anyone attending Rochester’s Auditorium Theatre will be required to prove they’ve had at least one vaccine dose.
Fire destroys back porch at Susan B. Anthony house
The cause of the fire is listed as suspicious, but it is still under investigation.
Joywave closes out Rochester Fringe Festival in a big-decibel way
Rochester indie rock heroes Joywave put a cap on the 2021 Rochester Fringe Festival with its “Smokestacks” concert at Parcel 5 on Sept. 25.
The dark inspires Charming Disaster in ‘Musical Tarot Show’
In “Charming Disaster’s Musical Tarot Show” at Rochester Fringe, the Brooklyn duo’s macabre wit takes center stage in songs inspired by tarot cards.
Hochul tells business leaders she’ll intensify economic development
At the annual meeting of the state’s Business Council Hochul said she will work to empower Regional Economic Development Councils.
Remaining RCSD students without transportation will soon get it
All Rochester City School District students are expected to have a ride to school by the end of the month, according to Superintendent Lesli Myers-Small.
Dinosaur Jr. bassist Lou Barlow launches intimate tour in upstate New York
Indie rock musician Lou Barlow, best known as Dinosaur Jr.’s bassist and the frontman for Sebadoh, plays a solo show at Bug Jar on Sept. 29.
One RPD officer in the Daniel Prude case faces internal dept. charges
The police department’s conflict counsel determined “potential grounds for legal recourse” against officer Mark Vaughn.
PUSH Physical Theatre extinguishes the ‘Generic Male’
PUSH Physical Theatre blends dance, body architecture, and sight gags in a new show tackling toxic masculinity at Rochester Fringe.
Andreas Delfs makes official debut as RPO music director in impressive concert
In his first official concert as the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra’s 13th music director, Andreas Delfs led a subtle, yet daring performance.
Comptroller seeks alternatives to pay down unemployment fund deficit
Unemployment insurance fund payouts increased 1,000 percent during the pandemic, leaving a gap for the state to fill.
KINDOFKIND headlines prog-rock, math-rock showcase at Bug Jar
The Bug Jar hosts a crowded lineup of Rochester prog-rock bands with talent to spare — including KINDOFKIND and Free Casino — on Sept. 24.
‘The Twilight Zone’ gets the Watkins treatment in clever Rochester Fringe concert
In the show “Singing Serling,” Rochester band Watkins & the Rapiers brings its whimsy to original songs inspired by “The Twilight Zone.”
Constellation moving downtown, city aqueduct project inches forward
The state will aid Constellation’s move with $4 million in tax incentives and provide the city with a $5 million grant toward the aqueduct project.
Hettie Barnhill presents local premiere of Black Lives Matter film at Rochester Fringe
The film “A Love Letter to Brian, Lesley, and Michelle” combines dance, spoken word, and protest to address the systemic racism and oppression.
Joywave brings it home with ‘Smokestacks’ concert at Rochester Fringe Festival
Joywave closes out Rochester Fringe Festival in a headlining concert on Parcel 5, with local acts KOPPS, Mikaela Davis, and Cammy Enaharo.
Rapper RO$CO hosts dynamic hip-hop concert and merch pop-up
TopTier Music Group owner and rapper RO$CO puts on a Rochester hip-hop showcase — featuring Dosseh Loe, Swankos, and DJ Rut — on Sept. 23.
‘Sherlock Holmes’ blends dance and death, Letta Neely brings the spoken word
The seventh day of Rochester Fringe featured the brilliant “Sherlock Holmes: The Loss at Whitechapel,” as well as Letta Neely’s striking poetry.
New York lawmakers launching listening tour on upstate cities
Sen. Jeremy Cooney, who chairs the Senate’s Cities 2 Committee, will launch the tours Monday in Albany. Visits to seven cities are planned.
A resurrected Rochester in ‘flOUR CITY Interactive ROCgarden’
In “flOUR CITY Interactive ROCgarden,” Rochester Fringe audiences meet famous Rochesterians from the past who share their compelling stories.
Searching for identity in ‘Belonging(s)’ at Rochester Fringe
The Rochester Fringe play “Belonging(s)” — performed next on Sept. 22 at MuCCC — is a thought-provoking commentary on ownership and identity.
‘Remnants’ and ‘ShMILF Life’ yield powerful insights at Rochester Fringe
The site-specific performance “Remnants” and Penny Sterling’s new one-woman show “ShMILF Life” both ponder previously ignored realizations.
City admits mistake, says PAB director can hire staff
The city of Rochester has admitted a mistake, and the Police Accountability Board’s executive director is free to hire his own staff.
Washington Grove’s ‘incredible trees’ are now protected
Marked by valleys and hills formed 10,000 years ago by glacial movement, Washington Grove has been inducted into a national nonprofit focused on preservation.
Two Truths makes debut with ambitious electro-folk music video
The band Two Truths makes a bold introduction to the Rochester music scene with their debut single and music video, “Brushstrokes.”
Get a shot, get $100 at some Monroe County vaccination clinics
Unvaccinated people in specific geographic areas are being offered $100 gift cards to get inoculated against COVID-19.
Garth Fagan Dance returns ‘home’ to Rochester Fringe Festival
Garth Fagan Dance’s 2021 Rochester Fringe performance features new-ish choreography and some even newer dancers for its 50th anniversary season.
Black Pride returns for weekend celebration
This weekend’s Black Pride aims to be a celebration Rochester’s vibrant Black and brown LGBTQ community.
Flogging Molly plays Rochester in first tour since pandemic shutdown
On its first tour since the pandemic began, the iconic Celtic punk band Flogging Molly plays Main Street Armory with Violent Femmes on Sept. 18.
Hochul says religious exemption not a legitimate excuse to avoid COVID-19 vaccine
Gov. Kathy Hochul said Wednesday that she doesn’t believe religion is a legitimate excuse for not getting vaccinated.
‘Unleashed! Improv’ and ‘Bushwhacked’ bring the silly to Rochester Fringe Festival
The second day of the 2021 Rochester Fringe Festival featured homegrown improv comedy with “Unleashed! Improv” and “Bushwhacked Renaissance.”
ESL grant funds HOPR bike and scooter stations
The bike sharing service added eight service stations in city neighborhoods to provide greater access to transportation for those without cars.
2021 Rochester Fringe Festival Coverage
The KeyBank Rochester Fringe Festival is back in person this year, and so are we. For daily previews and reviews of performances from the 10th annual Rochester Fringe, through Sept. 25, this is the place. And be sure to come back often: We’ll have fresh new content from CITY and WXXI reporters every morning, so…
Rachel McKibbens’s Fringe show reaches from the darkness to ‘my people’
Poet Rachel McKibbens presents the deeply personal collaborative performance “8 Chamber Hunger Orchestra” as part of the Rochester Fringe Festival.
Rochester Fringe Festival opens with zany ‘AfterParty,’ serious ‘Ghost Story’
On the first night of the 2021 Rochester Fringe Festival, Cirque du Fringe was endearingly ridiculous, while “Ghost Story” was poignant and dark.
Police Accountability Board demands independence as it seeks to hire
The Police Accountability Board is once again arguing for its independence from City Council, this time in hiring new staffers.
Artists complete four-year Arnett Branch Library mural project in 19th Ward
The Arnett Branch Library celebrates the completion of its Book Spine Mural project— which began in 2017 — on Sept. 15.
Negus Irap stakes claim on Rochester hip-hop with ‘Reset’ music video
Negus Irap’s new music video for the single “Reset” showcases the emergent Rochester rapper’s confident flow and cutting cadence.
Two new sculptures coming to Memorial Art Gallery’s lawn
Plans are in the works for a “Lover’s Rainbow” and another unnamed work to be installed by next fall.
Rochester Fringe Festival opens for a 10th year. Here’s what to expect.
They KeyBank Rochester Fringe Festival opens Tuesday and offers more than 425 live and virtual performances over 12 days.
Hundreds of health care workers, supporters protest vaccine mandate
Demonstrators at Strong Memorial Hospital on Monday called a state vaccine mandate for health care workers un-American.
Wild Pink and Kitchen play cathartic indie pop at Bug Jar
On Sept. 18, Wild Pink and Kitchen take the stage for a night of contemplative, thought-provoking indie music.
RTS changes bus frequency on several routes as part of plan to help RCSD
The routes in question recently began 15-minute service as part of the Reimagine RTS plan, but will now have 30-minute wait times.
Monroe County to offer more federally funded grants for small business
Monroe County Executive Adam Bello is announcing more help for small businesses still coping with the impact of COVID-19 on their operations.
Downtown kitchen incubator The Commissary looks to expand
The commercial grade commissary kitchen at The Mercantile on Main has attracted 43 food-based startup companies since it opened last year.
Levitation Room, Evolfo play first national show at Bug Jar in COVID era
The first Bug Jar show featuring national acts since the pandemic began is a Sept. 14 psych-rock celebration with Levitation Room and Evolfo.
Renovated Theater at Innovation Square opens in time for Fringe
The former Xerox Auditorium has been renovated into a 700-seat performing arts center that will serve as a venue for a variety of arts organizations.
RCSD schools open Thursday; most students will be in-person
RCSD students are backed to school Thursday, and despite a bus driver shortage, most will be in person.
RTS plan to bus city students in a pinch will affect regular riders
The frequency of stops on some RTS routes will change from 15 minutes to 30 minutes.
Rochester Fringe Festival shows reach for the light, and the heavy
The 10th annual Rochester Fringe Festival features a mix of lighthearted, silly performances and and serious shows that address social issues.
Peculiar Asphalt brings color to the city, one basketball court at a time
Peculiar Asphalt, a city-funded youth mural project, wrapped a third season of artfully refurbishing basketball courts.
Smelling the future of weed at the Roc City Cannabis Carnival
The first Roc City Cannabis Carnival in Scottsville drew the best of the best in New York weed for one smoke-filled afternoon.
Rochester lawmakers want to offer more incentives to the unvaccinated to get a shot
Fifty-dollar gift cards. Lotteries to win laptops and cars. Gift cards for school supplies. They are all on the table.
Free the People Roc renews demands related to Daniel Prude’s death
Thursday, Sept. 2, marked the one year anniversary of the day activists brought Daniel Prude’s death to the public’s attention.
NY Lawmakers extend pause on evictions, with new exceptions
The eviction moratorium has been extended to January, albeit with some new caveats.
Where the T-shirts are pricey but the pot is ‘free’
Customers who pay $65 for a T-shirt at HempSol CBD in Henrietta get an eighth of an ounce of marijuana as a “gift.”
Former RPD Chief Singletary sues city, mayor over his firing
He’s seeking at least $1.5 million in damages for his termination and defamation of character.
A Rochester Fringe binge (on the cheap)
Rochester Fringe Festival’s 10th anniversary features 425 in-person and virtual shows. Here are 11 essential and free events for you to enjoy.
The most anticipated theater of the fall season
The list of shows we’re excited about includes timely revivals, intriguing new works, and a mix of Mormons and McCarthyists.
Working Families Party emerges as a force in local elections
What began as a party to up the minimum wage is turning Democratic races upside down.
Hochul calls lawmakers back to Albany
The New York State Legislature is set to extend the eviction moratorium and confirm officials to oversee the rollout of cannabis legalization Wednesday.
Recovery advocates install emergency Narcan boxes around Monroe County
Opioid addiction recovery advocates have begun to install emergency Narcan boxes at local businesses in an effort to prevent overdose deaths.
Get your groceries from around the globe at these markets
Foreign food markets in Rochester diversify our pantries with special, hard-to-find items.
Seven new-ish restaurants to check out this fall
If you’re dining out again, here’s where you need to go now.
Six art shows you shouldn’t miss this fall
Get these exhibits in your calendar, get gussied, and get off the couch.
Nine new books we’re excited to read this fall
As we enter the curl-up-with-a-good-book months, these recommendations are ripe with intrigue, humor, and escape.
Let nature nurture you with these fall recreation activities
Hike, paddle, and picnic your way through fall with these regional events in the great outdoors.
Calicoco’s new album ‘Underneath’ is an uncompromising indie rock exorcism
“Underneath” — the second full-length album from Calicoco — is full of intelligent, intense indie rock and post-breakup catharsis.
Rochester bedroom pop musicians are connecting with fans on Twitch
Rochester musical artists Kitchen and Shep Treasure are embracing the live-streaming platform Twitch to expand their reach with fans.
The best live music this fall that won’t cost you a fortune
These six concerts — ranging from Americana and jam-band rock to hip-hop and soul — offer you serious (head)bang for your buck.
Transgender men tell of discrimination at Highland
Two transgender men describe being “degraded” during their time at Highland Hospital.
One-man theater company Aspie Works embraces autism and artistry
Justin Rielly’s one-man theater company Aspie Works is as prolific as it is positive.
Hochul pledges $65 million to local governments for booster shots
Gov. Kathy Hochul on Tuesday said local officials know how to best serve their communities.
State seeks more public input on Erie Canal tree-cutting plan
People have until Oct. 15 to comment on a controversial state plan to remove trees from the banks of the Erie Canal.
Mrs. Kasha Davis brings ‘Drag Story Hour’ to TV with new kids’ show
The creators of “Imagination Station” call it a cross between “Mrs. Doubtfire,” “Pee-wee’s Playhouse,” and “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.”
Despite worker shortage, RCSD aims to improve food service
Officials have said the district is short 30 kitchen staffers and that it needs more bus drivers and custodians, too.
‘Dancing Out the Dust’ performance to hit the Rochester Public Market
Dancer and choreographer Erika Ruegemer says farewell to Rochester with a final collaborative dance project that blurs the line between audience and performer.
This weekend, a music ‘festival’ that hasn’t been canceled: VOIDYEAR
Folk darling Jackson Cavalier presents a music and arts mini-festival at Abilene to bring live shows back from oblivion.
Kabul airport attack jeopardizes evacuation of Rochester-bound Afghans
Families of local Afghan refugees were among thousands of evacuees disrupted by the deadly attack outside Kabul airport on Thursday.
Small homeless encampment removed by city of Rochester
The encampment was cleared from Loomis St. on Thursday after the city received complaints from neighbors about trash and drug activity.
Attorney General to probe alleged illegal leak to Cuomo
Attorney General Letitia James will probe whether Gov. Andrew Cuomo received an illegal leak from the Joint Commission on Public Ethics.
The Forest Dwellers’ debut album ‘Open Road’ fuses reggae-rock with ’90s grit
On “Open Road,” The Forest Dwellers play with the boundaries of the reggae-rock genre to create a technically mature, successful debut album.
Max Flansburg brings classic country sound to solo debut ‘Long Hard Year’
Dirty Blanket frontman Max Flansburg goes solo with “Long Hard Year,” a collection of first-rate country songs that showcases his singing voice.
In Rochester, a community on wheels rolls on together
During the pandemic, roller skating saw a comeback, and new rollers are finding a sense of camaraderie at the rink.
Afghans who helped U.S. troops struggle to resettle in Rochester
Many Afghans who helped U.S. troops in Afghanistan have escaped persecution by the Taliban and resettled in Rochester, but their future is in limbo.
Tony Levin and King Crimson bring their complex musical world to CMAC
Rochester Music Hall of Famer Tony Levin and King Crimson roll into CMAC Thursday with their seriously complex songs and a sense of humor.
For companies that rely on bottles, the glass right now is half empty
A global glass shortage has local bottlers feeling the squeeze.
Pfizer vaccine given full FDA approval for ages 16 and older
Since it was granted emergency use authorization in Dec. 2020, more than 200 million doses of the Pfizer vaccine have been administered according to the CDC.
RIT, Gillibrand seek fed funds to make cybersecurity program inclusive
U.S Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand visited RIT to announce a large investment to help diversify the growing field of cybersecurity.
Area hospitals change visitation policies due to COVID-19
Strong Memorial and Highland hospitals and Rochester Regional Health will not allow visitation for adult patients positive for COVID-19. Non-COVID patients may have visitors, with restrictions.
Hochul becomes NY’s first female governor
Kathy Hochul was sworn in as New York’s first female governor at midnight Tuesday after a disgraced Andrew Cuomo resigned to avoid impeachment by the State Legislature.
Cuomo makes his exit, Hochul to be sworn in as governor
Kathy Hochul will be sworn in as New York’s first female governor in the early hours of Tuesday.
Employers consider open hiring as labor shortage looms
Six Rochester-area companies have already adopted open hiring processes or are testing them out. Bonduelle in Brockport is the latest.
Diverse final season for Geva’s retiring artistic director
Geva Theatre Center announces its lineup for its 49th season, which will be retiring artistic director Mark Cuddy’s last.
Activists want federal funds for climate, social justice initiatives
People from various environmental and social justice groups gathered outside the federal building on Thursday to push Congress to pass a $3.5 trillion federal reconciliation bill.
Rochester hoops stars return home to urge kids to get vaccinated
Youngsters ages 12 to 17 can get their photo taken with pro cagers from Rochester in exchange for getting a vaccine.
The ‘Big ‘G’ Jam’ brings funkadelic acts to Hannibal
On Aug. 20 and 21, “The ‘G’ Lodge” welcomes national bands Litz and Dr. Bacon, as well as Rochester acts such as The English Project and The Buddhahood.
Should student loan debt be forgiven? Lawmakers consider their options
As the suspension on student debt payments draws nearer to a close, federal lawmakers weigh the options for forgiveness.
KeyBank Rochester Fringe Festival returns to ‘normal,’ with a COVID caveat
For its 10th anniversary, KeyBank Rochester Fringe Festival cautiously brings back live performances — with vaccination requirements.
Activists demand protections for tenants as eviction moratoriums are challenged
As state and federal eviction moratoriums face a challenge, local activists are calling for stronger tenant protection laws.
Water Street Music Hall reopens with smooth jazz show featuring Adam Hawley and Judah Sealy
After a three-year hiatus, the venue in downtown Rochester reopens and invites jazz artists Adam Hawley and Judah Sealy to take the stage.
‘Grim and depressing’ Rochester welcomes NY Post columnist
New York Post’s Maureen Callahan once called Rochester “grim and depressing.” On Saturday she’ll be a guest at the Rochester Red Wings’ “Grim and Depressing Night.”
Secret Rochester band Coral Moons plays album release show at Bug Jar
Coral Moons is the local indie rock band you’ve never heard before. Led by Webster native Carly Kraft, they bring “Fieldcrest” to the Bug Jar Thursday.
Bill looks to curb food deliverers’ ‘back-door dash’ on restaurants
Monroe County Legislator Rachel Barnhart’s bill would prohibit food delivery apps from listing restaurants without their consent.
State to require COVID-19 vaccine for all healthcare workers
The state Health Department will draft orders that will require hospitals to mandate that their staff get vaccinated.
‘Homecoming’ is the theme of JCC CenterStage’s new season
JCC CenterStage’s 45th season will feature familiar actors and directors in both classic and new productions.
Disability rights advocate says U.S. can’t afford to shortchange home health care
Luticha Doucette is very concerned about getting the care she needs to stay in her home and remain active in the community as she gets older.
Assembly leaders dropping Cuomo impeachment probe
But other Republican and Democratic lawmakers said the impeachment should move forward regardless and the probe findings should be released.
Eat Me celebrates 10 years of sweetness with hip-hop ice cream party
It doesn’t get more summery than Eat Me Ice Cream’s 10th anniversary and outdoor hip-hop party this Saturday.
It’s gut check time at FLX Fermentation Festival this weekend
From kombucha to kimchi, the annual FLX Fermentation Festival in Naples has what’s good for your gut.
Census: Rochester falls to New York’s fourth-largest city
Rochester’s population grew between 2010 and 2020, but not enough to retain its longtime status as the third-largest city in New York.
Hochul: I will ‘fight like hell’ for the people of NY
Kathy Hochul vowed to run a clean administration, which will keep track on many of Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s pivotal policies.
Funding to fill highways like Inner Loop slashed but optimism remains
One-twentieth of the earmarked funds for projects like the Inner Loop were approved by the Senate, but local government remains optimistic.
CDC: Monroe County now in ‘high’ COVID-19 transmission category
Monroe County’s seven-day average of cases stands at about 104 per 100,000 residents.
Monroe County legislator resigns, citing health reasons
Matthew Terp, a Republican, will be replaced by Jennifer Wright. Republicans hold a 15-to-14 majority in the Monroe County Legislature.
Musician Charles Jaffe reflects on his ‘Imperfect World’
A new book of images and anecdotes by photographer Julie Gelfand sheds light on the lives of Rochester artists Charles Jaffe and Martha Heller.
Meet Kathy Hochul, New York’s first female governor
Kathy Hochul will serve as New York’s 57th governor following the resignation of Gov. Andrew Cuomo, the first woman to hold the office.
Gov. Andrew Cuomo resigns amid flurry of sexual harassment allegations
Gov. Andrew Cuomo will step down from office in 14 days, at which point Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul will ascend to the seat.
Early detection is the best prevention—the importance of cervical screenings
Cervical cancer progresses slowly and can be caught early, local doctors said. But, they added, women must prioritize wellness screenings.
As legal battle over Whole Foods Plaza continues, Starbucks opens on site
The first business in Brighton’s long fought-over Whole Foods Plaza opened on Friday. But the legal fight is far from over.
Louis C.K. to perform in Rochester in September
Comedian Louis C.K. will perform at Kodak Center on Sept. 19, as part of his first tour since a sexual misconduct scandal in 2017.
Maybird turns up the psychedelia on ‘Wonderland’
Rochester rock band Maybird digs deeper into their psychedelic roots with a concept album chronicling Lewis Carroll’s “Alice in Wonderland.”
Officials and residents call for reform of antiquated election system
Speakers at a public hearing on Thursday discussed challenges to voters with print disabilities, crucial checks and balances, and the recount rule.
The Mountain Goats’ Peter Hughes tours the world but calls Rochester home
Bassist Peter Hughes is a member of The Mountain Goats, a popular indie rock band with a cult following. But he’s also a proud Rochesterian.
Dome Arena vaccination site relocating to downtown Rochester
The state vaccination site for the COVID-19 vaccine that has been at the Dome Arena in Henrietta will close Aug. 15 and move downtown.
City eyeing second phase of the Roc City Skatepark
The second phase of the Roc City Skatepark is scheduled to have ground broken in 2023.
Fringe Fest indoor shows to be vaccinated-only
Only the vaccinated will be allowed into Fringe Fest’s indoor shows this year.
Autism Trail seeks to break down barriers to deep nature
The Autism Nature Trail at Letchworth State Park, set to open this fall, aims to bring accessibility to autistic nature lovers.
Bug Jar reopens amid a routine of uncertainty
The Bug Jar returns with live music on Aug. 6 amid renewed debate over mask and vaccination requirements at Rochester venues.
New Americans Advisory Council aims to retain Rochester’s refugees
Refugees in Rochester face a hard road to being self-sufficient. The New Americans Advisory Council aims to lessen the burden.
Local advocates call for equity on National Black Women’s Equal Pay Day
On Tuesday local and state officials gathered with community members at the Liberty Pole to bring awareness to National Black Women’s Equal Pay Day.
AG’s report finds Cuomo sexually harassed women, broke laws
Investigators substantiated allegations of sexual harassment and inappropriate behavior made by 11 women against Gov. Andrew Cuomo.
As eviction moratorium winds down, tenants and landlords prepare
Evictions are likely to spike after the statewide moratorium on evictions lifts Aug. 31. A national moratorium ended July 31.
Clothesline Festival is on, with reservations
This year, all tickets must be purchased ahead of time, there will be no sales at the gates.
Monroe County officials: Wear face masks to curb COVID-19 surge
The guidance follows CDC’s recommendation that vaccinated people wear masks indoors in areas with substantial transmission of COVID-19.
Japanese Breakfast brings new era of ‘Jubilee’ to sold-out Anthology show
Michelle Zauner’s Japanese Breakfast takes the joyful and richly orchestrated sound of its latest album, “Jubilee,” to Rochester on Tuesday.
Monroe County now has “substantial” COVID-19 transmission, says CDC
Whether Monroe County will reinstate a mask mandate remains to be seen.
Vote Now: ‘Best of Rochester: The Re-entry Edition’
Now that you’ve become reacquainted with your favorite people, places, and things around town, celebrate them by casting a ballot.
Rochester Jewish Film Fest takes the cultural temperature
With few in-person screenings, the mostly virtual 2021 Rochester Jewish Film Festival includes relevant themes and local connections.
For the dog days drinks, head to Brindle Haus
If you like to have your beer surrounded by very good boys and girls, head over to Brindle Haus in Spencerport.
With festivals returning, City Hall opens up its wallet
Festivals are back this fall, and with them comes a brand new batch of city hall dollars.
Local employers hesitate to impose vaccine mandates due to worker shortage
Local employers find themselves in a predicament of requiring vaccinations and potentially stifling their workforce even more.
Sore Ear Collective wants to make Rochester a DIY music destination
Jared Johnson of Sore Ear Collective is using the DIY record label to make Rochester a meeting ground for hardcore, punk, and alternative bands.
Ong Siraphisut’s ‘BREATHE’ on East Avenue wants you to take a breather
Ong Siraphisut has been creating work in response to the pandemic that gets viewers to stop and reflect.
WallTherapy’s decade of rallying Rochester around murals
Ten years and 135 murals later, WallTherapy organizers reflect on the impact the initiative has had on Rochester.
Herb Smith lends a helping horn to young Black men
How a night in jail on bogus charges led RPO trumpeter Herb Smith to mentor young Black men.
In Rochester’s red-hot housing market, it’s cheaper to rent
Across every ZIP code in Monroe County, renters spend about $450 less each month on housing than homeowners with a mortgage.
Beat the heat with chilled soups
In August, soup is a dish best served cold. Try these satisfying, chilled soups that are a breeze to make and easy to serve.
Saint Free fuses rockabilly grit with soulful reggae rock beats on ‘Tussio’
On this daring sophomore release, Saint Free pairs inventive wordplay with a fusion of stylistic influences to tell clever and entertaining stories.
Country artist Claudia Hoyser is in the driver’s seat with debut album
On “Red Light’s Turning Green,” Rochester singer-songwriter Claudia Hoyser trusts her instincts with her best music to-date.
Marc Starr is a Rochester hip-hop artist on the rise
With the new single “Whatever You Like” and a national tour, Marc Starr is poised to break out with his blend of rap with R&B beats.
Prog-rock quartet AKU busts heads with ‘Brain Grease’ single
With its latest single “Brain Grease,” the prodigious instrumental band AKU suggests prog-rock is on the rise in Rochester.
Jurassic Farms has become an unlikely getaway for live music in Rochester
Aaron Rubin’s Jurassic Farms is an idyllic, in-demand performance space on nearly eight acres along the Genesee River.
Pinball wizards go for broke in East Rochester
Five pinball fanatics pooled their private collections of machines to form the Rochester Pinball Collective in East Rochester.
New York state mandates vaccines for its workers
Cuomo will mandate the vaccine for front-line workers in New York state-run hospitals. Other state workers must be vaccinated or be subject to weekly testing.
URMC lab chosen to perform COVID-19 genome sequencing
As the COVID-19 Delta variant continues to spread, New York state’s health department is seeking help from external laboratories to track emerging variants.
Fashion Week Rochester returns in October
After a two year gap, Fashion Week Rochester will be held this October at the Dome Arena.
Disgraced judge denies allegations of sexual abuse
Disgraced former state judge Matthew Rosenbaum said in a video statement that his relationship with a secretary was consensual.
Bello administration plans to overhaul county’s delivery of social services
Under the plan, Monroe County would offer many of its social services through community-based organizations.
Summit aims to strengthen Rochester’s violence prevention efforts
The Violence Prevention Summit aims to guide Rochester’s effort to stifle the city’s increase in violent crime.
Blackberry Smoke brings Southern spirituality, Allman Brothers vibes to CMAC
Connections to The Allman Brothers Band abound on the rock band Blackberry Smoke’s “Spirit of the South Tour,” which comes to CMAC on July 31.
Black Culture Festival kicks off Friday at new Parcel 5 location
The second annual Black Culture Festival, now at Parcel 5, highlights entrepreneurship and the arts on July 30 and 31.
Former Judge Matthew Rosenbaum is subject of criminal probe
The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office and the District Attorney’s Office are looking into possible criminal conduct by the disgraced judge.
Rochester’s infamous ‘Sleeping Bears’ mural vandalized
The mural, created in 2012 by the Belgian artist ROA, was derided by many who saw in it the depiction of a sex act.
Lawmakers call for safe injection sites in Rochester
The goal of supervised drug consumption centers, also known as safe injection sites, is to reduce the risk of overdoses.
Bristol Valley Theater’s one-woman show ‘Mala’ explores death with humor
Bristol Valley Theater’s production of Melinda Lopez’s play “Mala,” starring Mary Mendez Rizzo, enters its final week of outdoor performances.
No, you still can’t bring weed from Canada across the border
Weed may be legal in Canada and New York, but transporting it across the border of either is not.
Rochester musician Avis Reese taking a nomadic journey, inspired by 2020
Reese said that she wants to find out what will happen if she’s forced to make it on her own in a new place.
Nathaniel Rochester middle school renamed after Black educator Alice Holloway Young
Nathaniel Rochester Middle School No. 3 will be renamed in honor of pioneering Black educator Alice Holloway Young.
The Painted Birds perform sunny, thought-provoking tunes at Jurassic Farms
The Painted Birds’ eclectic pop-soul tracks provide a needed respite from the summer heat at Jurassic Farms’ riverside oasis on Friday.
Rochester activists renew call for eviction protections
This week Albany City Council members passed good cause eviction protection for residents. Local activists want a similar law for Rochester.
After resigning under pressure, city’s former top lawyer still aides the mayor
Amid increasing pressure, city top lawyer Tim Curtin resigned in June, but the mayor kept him on in a new position.
Mayor Lovely Warren pleads not guilty to gun, child endangerment charges
The mayor and her husband, Timothy Granison, were charged in an indictment unsealed Friday.
Lovely Warren, husband to be arraigned Wednesday on criminal charges
Lovely Warren and her husband, Timothy Granison, face five charges, including a felony, related to a police raid on their home in May.
Live concerts return to Rochester — an overview
From CMAC and Point of the Bluff Vineyard to Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre and Anthology, live music is back in the Greater Rochester region.
Former Monroe County judge accused of sexual abuse by secretary
The secretary to former Justice Matthew Rosenbaum claims in a lawsuit that he subjected her to years of forced sex acts.
Audit: Henrietta Fire District overtaxed residents
An audit of the Henrietta Fire District found the agency set unrealistic budgets and overtaxed residents.
Bello, Mendoza, Democratic legislators denounce ethics reform measure
The measure prohibits outside employment for some county staff, and could cause Dr. Michael Mendoza to step down as health commissioner.
RPD officer who shot man with knife in March will not be charged
A Monroe County Grand Jury has found “no cause for action” against a Rochester Police Officer after he shot and killed a man armed with a knife last March.
Puerto Rican Festival announces new format for this year’s event
The festival will take place on two Saturdays in August, at two new city locations.
Warren, Granison face gun, child endangerment charges
The mayor and her husband, from whom she is separated, were charged as the result of a May 19 raid on the Woodman Park house they share.
Comics, and maybe a little catharsis, on display at indie expo
The Rochester Indie Comics Expo returns Saturday, featuring a group of diverse local creators.
A ‘waterless Scotch ale’ from Batavia’s Eli Fish picked as best beer in New York
Batavia’s Eli Fish took the Governor’s Cup in the New York State Craft Beer Competition, held by the New York State Brewers Association.
Merging to survive: More nonprofits turning to United Way for help
About 17 organizations are in the process with United Way to initiate possible mergers.
Critics of NY’s public ethics commission won’t give up on reform
Instead of fixing New York state’s ethics problems, JCOPE has been ‘set up to fail’ and is ‘not structured to be an independent ethics watchdog,’ critics say.
The Little Theatre shows previously unseen music doc ‘Summer of Soul’
The documentary “Summer of Soul,” playing at The Little Theatre through July 18, unearths footage from the pivotal 1969 Harlem Cultural Festival.
Our Lady of Victory squashes the Mosquito
Our Lady of Victory Roman Catholic Church has turned off its neighbor-irritating mosquito device.
Partners celebrate big milestone in local sturgeon restoration effort
For the first time in 50 years, a spawning female sturgeon has been found in the Genesee River.
Proposal would add harassment, sexual harassment to county ethics code
The measure would also expand Monroe County’s Board of Ethics from three members to seven members.
UUU Art Collective hosts weekly jazz nights with an improvisational bent
Each Monday, the contemporary art gallery on State Street welcomes jazz musicians from across the city to collaborate and innovate on their stage.
Actor Taye Diggs presents $75k to School of the Arts
The SOTA alum presented $75,000 to the school, to be used to offset the cost of school supplies.
Some Monroe County primary election results aren’t final yet, thanks to lawsuit
Van White has filed a lawsuit asking for a manual recount by hand of votes cast in seven Monroe County primary elections. A judge agreed.
City presents ‘stew’ of Inner Loop ideas, but residents aren’t eating it up yet
President Joe Biden’s $1.2 trillion infrastructure bill would carve out roughly $25 billion to fund projects like filling in the Inner Loop.
Warren returns to work after week in hospital for salmonella poisoning
Mayor Lovely Warren returned to work Monday after being treated for salmonella poisoning.
LGBTQ lawmakers say no way to thruway Chick-fil-A
Assemblymember Harry Bronson is critical of a choice of Chick-fil-A for New York’s thruway.
Church’s anti-loitering ‘mosquito’ makes Pleasant Street unpleasant
Neighbors of Our Lady of Victory Church say the squeal of its “Mosquito” anti-loitering device is infringing on their quality of life.
Bello, Barnhart call for permanent cap on food delivery fees
County Executive Adam Bello is a calling on the Monroe County Legislature to make permanent a 15 percent fee cap on services like Grubhub.
Primary election results certified, recount results confirmed
The outcomes of seven tight races in the June 22 primary elections did not change with a state-mandated recount.
New federal task force targets gun violence in Rochester
A partnership of federal law enforcement agencies aims to curb Rochester’s surge in violence, but some residents are pushing back.
City paints over ‘The Empire Strikes Black’ at MLK Jr. Park
Messages scrawled in the Martin Luther King Jr. Park amphitheater were an enduring reminder of the civil unrest of the summer of 2020.
Recounts under way in razor-thin primary races in Monroe County
Seven races are being recounted, including one for the County Legislature’s 24th District in which nine votes separate the candidates.
The Little Theatre expands hours, devotes a day to captioned films
The Little Theatre, which had been open Fridays through Sunday, will add Thursdays to its open hours.
Earth Altars: Sacred spaces around Rochester honor pandemic grief, offer hope
Native American artists built five altars on the grounds of Ganondagan State Historic Site, and other communities are designing their own.
Danielle Ponder, Dirty Blanket, and more deliver summer vibes at Heron Music Series
Upstate New York favorites, including Danielle Ponder, Dirty Blanket, and Driftwood, will perform at The Heron Music Series in July.
Party in the Park concert series returns in July
The Rochester summer concert series Party in the Park returns July 14 with jam band Pigeons Playing Ping Pong, following last year’s hiatus.
City locks in renewable energy supplies for residents
Starting Sept. 1, RG&E customers in the city will get their electricity from 100 percent renewable sources, unless they opt out.
Craig Doran, Rochester’s chief judge, steps down over racist photo
Craig Doran announced he was resigning, citing a photo of him masquerading as “a well-known public figure of color” in 1988.
Harmonica Lewinski, Beef Gordon play offbeat rock show at Abilene
Garage-surf rock band Harmonica Lewinski and electro-pop crooner Beef Gordon will join forces for a show at Abilene Bar & Lounge on July 3.
Where to catch fireworks, food, fun, and music this Fourth of July
After a year of fireworks going off in the city seemingly around the clock, official Rochester Independence Day fireworks are back.
After scrutiny, Premium Mortgage vows to boost loans to people of color
The pledge follows a state Department of Financial Services investigation into Premium Mortgage and other lenders operating in Buffalo.
On North Street, rocking horses of Puerto Rico prance freely
Junior Rodriguez has cultivated an homage to rocking horses and other upcycled kitsch at his home on North and St. Jacob streets.
A new production of ‘The Tempest’ in ASL and English goes beyond translation
In Rochester Community Players’ “The Tempest,” American Sign Language tells more of the story than in previous plays featuring deaf actors.
Eastman Museum exhibition spotlights trans and gender nonconforming older adults
Eastman Museum’s “To Survive on This Shore” photo exhibition presents a spectrum of trans and gender nonconforming older adults portraits and stories.
Bring on the happy hours with these creative summer cocktails
Drinking together is back on the menu, and we’re celebrating with summer-y beverages at peak places for people to gather.
Bike trips around Rochester in 20 minutes. Oh, the places you’ll go.
Reconnect Rochester’s 20 Minutes by Bike campaign aims to encourage people to take short trips by bicycle.
KING 20/20 rebrands himself on danceable new single ‘OFF IT’
After a stint as a rapper, KING 20/20 has discovered a sound of his own, with influences ranging from LCD Soundsystem to The Pixies.
The new-look Photo City Music Hall is still a haven for punk, metal, and EDM
Danny Nielsen took a risk in renovating Photo City Music Hall during the live-concert hiatus, but its reputation helped keep things afloat.
Drummer Aaron Staebell blends jazz and folk with concert album ‘Under Open Sky’
Released more than 10 years after it was recorded, “Under Open Sky” reimagines folk classics through drummer Aaron Staebell’s modern jazz lens.
Six Rochester restaurants that do vegetables right
In a city of great restaurants, vegetables are often an afterthought. But these six veggie-centric dishes stand out and sing supper.
For April Aycock, mental health is about connections
April Aycock, the director of Monroe County’s Office of Mental Health, was appointed in the wake of tragedy. She now looks to make change.
Nature in the City art expo comes to Rochester Public Market
The July 2 art expo Nature in the City aims to connect people to the natural world through visual art such as soil painting, music, and dance.
Lyell Avenue, a very ‘Little Italy,’ and a neighborhood at a crossroads
The Little Italy Historic District is a very little Italy, and questionably historic. A troubled neighborhood seeks to reclaim its identity.
Schumer, Gillibrand chasing hundreds of millions for Inner Loop project
US Sens. Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand pledged support Tuesday for replacing the Inner Loop via a sweeping federal infrastructure plan.
King Buffalo reflects on quarantine with ‘The Burden of Restlessness’
Psych-rock trio King Buffalo’s third full-length album, “The Burden of Restlessness,” is its darkest release yet.
Rochester’s Food Truck Rodeo is back
Wednesday, June 30, marks the return of the popular summertime event which went on hiatus last year because of COVID-19.
‘3-foot’ bike safety bill becomes law in Monroe County
Giving a bicyclist a berth of at least 3 feet when passing them in a motor vehicle became law in Monroe County.
Reclaiming Pride without Out Alliance
With Out Alliance out of commission, a bewildered and hurt LGBTQ community works to pick up the pieces.
Black, deaf, and eager to be heard
American Sign Language has evolved into different dialects and many Black deaf people use a variation of their own.
Benny Bleu’s new album takes solace in simple folk tunes
“Swatting the Flies” is an introspective follow-up to “Warm Prickly,” but Benny Bleu’s joy in folk music remains.
‘FourMats’ exhibit at the MAG tinkers with time
Tara Merenda Nelson’s film and video installations jumps through time in the exhibition “FourMats” at the MAG.
Westside Farmers Market organizers won’t bow to violence
Organizers say they are taking measures to keep market patrons as safe as they can.
Summer camp teaches social skills that remote learning has taken away
At Camp Puzzle Peace in Penfield, staff members work with children with cognitive social delays to build social skills and coping strategies.
Literacy Rochester enters agreement to save Syracuse nonprofit
The Rochester nonprofit has formed a partnership to save the nation’s first volunteer literacy chapter from extinction.
A return to order and decency at City Hall
Lovely Warren’s mayoralty ends where it began, with a city crying, “Uncle!”
Joywave’s new EP is a step forward sonically
On “Every Window Is a Mirror,” Joywave focuses on post-pandemic life with a fresh soundtrack of euphoric hooks and head-spinning electronics.
Geva’s Mark Cuddy to retire next year
Mark Cuddy, Geva Theatre Center’s artistic director of 27 years, will retire in 2022 at the end of the regional company’s 49th season.
Bellwether Breaks, Ryan Sutherland bring eclectic rock to Photo City Music Hall Thursday
The soulful retro rock of Bellwether Breaks and Ryan Sutherland’s adventurous folk rock make a great pair in Photo City’s June 24 show.
Cuomo’s emergency pandemic powers to end Thursday
Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s emergency pandemic powers are set to end Thursday, with the governor stating the emergency is over.
Evans vows clean administration following his mayoral primary victory
Malik Evans, the presumptive mayor-elect, vows an “organized, disciplined, and focused” administration.
Accomplished Americana musician Cindy Cashdollar returns to Abilene
Cindy Cashdollar has played with everyone from Bob Dylan to Leon Redbone, but she’ll play songs from her album “Waltz for Abilene” Saturday.
Primaries results could shake-up the County Legislature
The ultimate balance of power in the Legislature will be determined in the general election, when all 29 seats are on the ballot.
Evans trounces Warren in Democratic primary, paves way to City Hall
Malik Evans derailed Lovely Warren’s bid for a third term and now marches to the general election without a challenger.
School board VP Elliott is top vote-getter in school board primary
Camille Simmons and James Patterson also prevailed, and the three candidates will have the Democratic line on the November ballot.
Incumbents, activists win City Council primary
Tuesday’s results, combined with the outcome of the mayoral primary, could lead to a new dynamic on City Council.
JCC’s new theater production is a ‘love letter’ to local BIPOC artists
JCC CenterStage and producer-actor Jennifer Galvez Caton present A.R. Gurney’s play “Love Letters” with a diverse cast and crew on June 27.
Mikaela Davis brings celestial psych-pop to Point of the Bluff Vineyards
Mikaela Davis and her band will perform her trademark blend of harp-infused psych-pop at Point of the Bluff Vineyards on June 26.
Nonprofit resumes annual fundraiser to prepare for influx of refugees
Pittsford-based Saint’s Place expects that roughly 800 refugees could settle in Rochester over the next year, compared to 87 in 2020.
Ready for a post-COVID life? Your dog may be dreading it
Dog behaviorists and trainers expect that as people return to pre-pandemic routines, a wave of dogs will suffer from separation anxiety.
Early voting wraps up; Primary Day is Tuesday
The primaries on Tuesday’s ballot include those for Rochester mayor, City Council, and school board, and some for the County Legislature.
“Team LaKaya” adds to calls for Flagler-Mitchell to resign
A group of prominent women of color said they stand with LaKaya Sinclair, who received unsolicited lewd messages from the legislator
Seeley to head up RochesterWorks! after leaving Irondequoit Supervisor post
David Seeley announced in January he wouldn’t seek reelection this fall and earlier this week he said his last day would be July 31.
CMAC adds four shows, completes summer lineup
Lynyrd Skynyrd, King Crimson, and Jason Mraz make up just some of the performances at CMAC this summer.
The little-known local connection to Juneteenth: Sodus native played key role
When the enslaved people of Texas were informed they were free, it was a Sodus native who delivered the news.
Clibbus’s ‘Horsesatelite’ is a madcap punk adventure
The Rochester-based trio Clibbus is back with “Horsesatelite,” another eccentric album of avant-punk and noise rock.
At School No. 9, students find peace with new greenspace
A new greenspace at Martin Luther King School No, 9 offers a chance for students to learn about landscaping and entrepreneurship.
Rochester City Council President Scott endorses Warren for mayor
City Council President Loretta Scott’s support of the mayor one day after a former Warren aide’s endorsement of challenger Malik Evans.
Emo band Carpool explores heartbreak, self-discovery on debut album
On “Erotic Nightmare Summer,” the four-piece emo band Carpool creates a modern commentary on love and loss.
Irondequoit supervisor to step down July 31
Irondequoit Supervisor Dave Seeley will step down from his position on July 31, citing a new job opportunity in the community.
Cuomo lifts COVID-19 mandates after state reaches vaccination milestone
Gov. Cuomo lifted the state’s COVID-19 requirements regarding masks, physical distancing, and capacity limits at events on Tuesday.
Abilene owner stands by venue’s COVID vaccination policy
As live music returns, Abilene Bar and Lounge and other regional venues have implemented proof-of-vaccination policies for concertgoers.
A divided Rochester City Council passes $561 million budget
The City Council voted 5 to 4 to adopt a spending plan for 2022.
A former Warren top aide endorses Evans for mayor
Former Deputy Mayor Cedric Alexander said of supporting Malik Evans for mayor, “It is time to turn the page.”
The Stone Lows’ new single blends indie rock with psychedelic touches
On “Tell Me I’m Wrong,” indie rock band The Stone Lows contemplates isolation versus interaction through a fuzzy, psychedelic prism.
Cuomo says state one step closer to vaccination milestone
On Monday, Cuomo said that 69.9 percent of all New York residents over 18 have received at least one COVID-19 vaccine dose.
Early voting gets a steady start
Early voting began this past Saturday and continues through June 20.
Local Afghans who aided US troops seek humanitarian parole for their families
Local Afghans who assisted the U.S. troops during the War in Afghanistan are pleading for the U.S. to evacuate their families.
Appeals court upholds ruling that stripped PAB of disciplinary powers
A ruling stripping the Police Accountability Board’s disciplinary powers has been affirmed by an appellate court decision.
Wild ales are In Bloom at Other Half FLX
Other Half FLX will launch In Bloom, the brewery’s new wild ale program, Saturday.
Evans outlines senior citizen plan, says Flagler-Mitchell has “got to go”
Evans’ three-pronged senior citizen plan marks the fourth pillar of his so-called “Compact with the Community.”
Flagler-Mitchell steps back from Black and Asian Caucus, for now
Amid growing calls to resign and a second sexual harassment allegation, Flagler-Mitchell is stepping back from the Black and Asian Caucus.
Limited-access legislative session draws to a close
With the state Capitol still closed to visitors, some say the lack of direct access to lawmakers has hurt the chances of some bills passing.
Grace Serene and the Super Clean is off to a quick sonic start
In six short months, the nascent funk fusion-soul band Grace Serene and the Super Clean has created nearly two albums’ worth of material.
Dawson Company tapped as Bull’s Head developer
The city has tapped a developer for Bull’s Head. When the project will be completed, what will be built, and the price tag are unclear.
Another woman accuses Flagler-Mitchell of sexual harassment
Late Thursday, the entire Republican caucus called on Legislator Ernest Flagler-Mitchell to resign, given the new accusations.
Partial eclipse draws crowd early Thursday
Skygazers got a view of a 78 percent solar eclipse Thursday morning.
Judge orders the removal of 21 Conservative Party ‘raiders’ in Rush
The chairman of the county Conservative Party accused 21 new members of working to hijack the Conservative primary in Rush.
DA report: Flagler-Mitchell routinely, brazenly contacted women for sex
Investigators stated that Legislator Ernest Flagler-Mitchell used his standing in the community to seek out women on social media.
Younger women with breast cancer urged to advocate for themselves
For women under 40, trusting one’s own instinct and being proactive about health can be key in fighting breast cancer.
City ethics board accepts complaint by Mazzeo against Lupien
The complaint against Councilmember Mary Lupien alleges a Color of Change petition circulated by her in March shows conflict of interest.
GrassRoots Festival relaunches with 2021 summer concert series
After canceling the 2021 Finger Lakes GrassRoots Festival, organizers have announced a full slate of concerts from July 9 through 31.
In Rush, a raid on the Conservative Party and a question of values
Accused Conservative Party interlopers in the rural suburb of Rush argued in court that the Conservative Party has no values.
Bello touts record, renews calls for bipartisanship
Monroe County Executive Adam Bello delivered his first State of the County address on Monday.
Complaint: Mayor Warren’s husband made a drug deal with their daughter in tow
Federal prosecutors allege Timothy Granison made drug deals in the mayor’s car and with their 10-year-old daughter in tow.
Epic lo-fi pop compilation ‘Through the Soil’ has Rochester roots
Co-organized by local musician Steven Danglis, “Through the Soil” is a staggering 68-song compilation of lo-fi, DIY pop.
Evans unveils plan for boosting business, home ownership
On Monday, mayoral candidate Malik Evans laid out his Economic Empowerment Plan in front of Burgos Income Tax on North Clinton Avenue.
Historically Black sorority addressing COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy
The Theta Omega Sigma Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority will host a discussion among Black professionals who were once hesitant.
HOPR bike and scooter share program rolls out in Rochester
The company is bringing pedal bikes, electric assist bikes and electric scooters to the city and some suburbs.
Sandy Parker, a force in the Rochester business community, dies at 75
Sandy Parker, the longtime head of the former Rochester Business Alliance, died Saturday.
Flagler-Mitchell accuser repeats call for legislator to resign
LaKaya Sinclair spoke a day after the county Board of Ethics found that Flagler-Mitchell violated ethics codes.
Supporters say Clean Slate legislation offers a second chance
The so-called Clean Slate legislation would expunge some criminal records for those who have already served their time in prison.
RPO returns to live performance, Delfs debuts as director
The RPO, in its first live concert with Andreas Delfs as music director, played for an audience again Thursday after a year’s absence.
URMC to participate in COVID-19 vaccine trial for children 11 and younger
The nationwide trial will test the vaccine on 200 to 300 volunteers; about 45 will be from the Rochester area.
Image City has an image problem
You aren’t alone if you got a message from an out-of-town friend over the last year that was something like, “What the hell is wrong with your city?!”
Free Casino finds its math-rock groove on second EP
On “Our Casino,” the trio of Nazareth College graduates sheds its indie influences and hones its identity as a a compelling math rock outfit.
Flagler-Mitchell violated ethics code with sexually explicit photo
Legislator Ernest Flagler-Mitchell has said the photo of male genitalia he sent to a 19-year-old woman was meant for his wife.
I shook someone’s hand. And you can, too!
Reports of the death of the handshake have been greatly exaggerated.
In Albany, advocates rally for an end to qualified immunity
State senators and advocates rallied in Albany, calling for an end to legal protections for officers who kill someone in the line of duty.
Parents of crash victims urge state lawmakers to pass street safety bills
Families for Safe Streets is calling on legislators to pass bills meant to provide greater protections to cyclists and pedestrians.
JCC launches outdoor summer performances on Canalside Stage
A tented outdoor stage on the tennis courts of the JCC of Greater Rochester will host a summer performing arts series.
ARTs+Change Conference addresses bias, advocates for equity
Hosted by U of R, the free virtual conference runs from June 3 to 6 and envisions how social justice can be achieved through the arts.
Cusp turns up the fuzz on emotional debut EP
On its first release “Spill,” the post-punk band Cusp combines bursts of fuzzed-out guitars with introspective angst.
Boyz II Men to headline Rochester Summer Soul
Boyz II Men will serve as the headliners for this year’s Rochester Summer Soul Music Festival.
An embattled Warren faces a mayoral challenge from Evans
It’s been a trying year for Mayor Lovely Warren, and with the latest scandal, the race for City Hall against Malik Evans tightens.
North Star Players resurrect Tulsa Massacre 100 years later
The North Star Players are now staging “Emancipation Denied: The Story of Black Wall Street,” a play about the Tulsa Massacre.
At-large City Council seats loom large
Sixteen candidates are vying for five at-large seats on City Council in the primary on June 22. Get to know your options.
Head to the Roots branches out with versatile pop on ‘Seeker’
Anthony Siciliano’s project Head to the Roots moves beyond folky vibes and reaches a new level of pop-music maturity with “Seeker.”
On ‘Master Cat,’ Hard Nips explore the rough edges of punky power pop
The Brooklyn band Hard Nips blends catchy power pop and raw garage rock on “Master Cat,” released by Rochester label Dadstache Records.
Fivebyfive blends music and meditation in interactive online event
The Zoom performance of Pauline Oliveros’s “Tuning Meditation” on June 6 is open for anyone to participate, even without a musical background.
Primaries shape the future of Democrats in the County Legislature
Since Democratic County Executive Adam Bello took office in 2020, two different power struggles have been playing out in the Legislature.
Eastman Museum looks back with a Carl Chiarenza retrospective
While reflecting on nearly seven decades of work, photographer Carl Chiarenza hasn’t stopped evolving his artistic practice.
Local Black artists embrace natural hair styles
A growing number of Black women — including several Rochester artists — are embracing natural Black hair over white, Eurocentric styles.
Rochester School Board: Tough, thankless, but not hopeless
Nine candidates are seeking the Democratic line for three open Rochester city school board seats.
Nani’s Kitchen workers unionized. Why don’t more restaurants?
Nani’s Kitchen workers unionized with the blessing of their boss. Why aren’t more restaurants union shops? It’s complicated.
Signing off, Michael Lasser still hears that ‘Fascinatin’ Rhythm’
Michael Lasser’s Peabody Award-winning radio show “Fascinatin’ Rhythm” ends its distinguished 40-year run in June.
Genesee Country Village & Museum reckons with representation
The museum’s inaugural commemoration of Juneteenth is part an effort to more accurately portray the people of 19th-century western New York.
Snack attacks at House of Whacks
The new St. Paul eatery is serving up comfort food and ice cream concoctions to break up the workweek doldrums.
Rochester breweries walk on the wild side with wild ales
Get wild in Rochester with tastes of complex, wood-aged wild ales brimming with nuance and complexity.
Local districts to decide on school masking
It is up to local school districts to decide their masking policies in schools and on school buses beginning Wednesday.
Dummy post do not make live
This is not a story
How the pool table that shaped Martin Luther King Jr. came to Rochester
The pool table that shaped Martin Luther King Jr. as a seminary student in Pennsylvania now has a new home in Rochester.
Can Biden’s infrastructure plan bury the Inner Loop for good? City Hall hopes so.
City Hall is eyeing potential federal infrastructure funds to fill in the rest of the Inner Loop. But some residents are wary of what comes next.
Three no-fail side salads to bring to any backyard BBQ
Gatherings are coming back, and so is the pressure to bring a dish to pass. These easy recipes kick the basics up a notch.
