Local News

United Way and Goodwill Partner to Preserve 211 Service Funding in Finger Lakes. United Way is collaborating with Goodwill to ensure the continued availability of 211 services for residents in Greater Rochester and the Finger Lakes region. The 211 helpline provides a vital connection to community resources during challenging periods. This partnership aims to secure essential funding that supports the operation of this critical information and referral service. The cooperation highlights efforts to maintain assistance for those in need throughout the region. (Source: Finger Lakes Times on Jan 2) Finger Lakes Rochester, NY

Northeast Faces Snow and Cold as Southern California Prepares for Flood Risks. New Year's Day brought significant snowfall and frigid weather to areas across the Northeast and Great Lakes, including six inches in Rochester and Buffalo. Pittsburgh and Cleveland also saw notable accumulations, contributing to travel and safety concerns. Meanwhile, regions in Southern California are dealing with the threat of heavy rain and potential flooding as severe weather shifts west. Communities in both regions remain focused on weather impacts as 2026 begins. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Jan 1) Finger Lakes Rochester, NY Buffalo, NY

Rochester Hospitals Reinstate Mask Policies as Flu Cases Reach Record Highs. Hospitals in Rochester have reintroduced universal masking requirements for staff, patients, and visitors in response to a significant surge in flu cases. Both the University of Rochester Medical Center and Rochester Regional Health are reporting increased hospitalizations and staff illnesses that are putting a strain on resources. State health figures indicate over 71,000 flu cases last week, with a 63% rise in hospital admissions. Local officials emphasize the continued availability of vaccination sites for residents. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Jan 1) Finger Lakes Rochester, NY

Rochester Teen Faces Charges in Fatal Shooting of Father. A 17-year-old has been arrested after allegedly shooting and killing his father during a dispute at their Rochester residence. Rochester Police responded late Monday evening to a call at an apartment on Garson Avenue, where the incident occurred. Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances that led to the fatal altercation. The teen is now facing criminal charges related to the death. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Jan 1) Finger Lakes Rochester, NY

Rochester Regional Health Reinstates Universal Masking Due to Increased Flu Cases. Rochester Regional Health has enacted a temporary universal masking requirement in its facilities in response to a significant increase in flu cases throughout Monroe County and New York State. Beginning this week, staff, patients, and visitors must wear masks while inside the healthcare system’s hospitals. Hospital officials state that the measure is intended to protect public health during the current surge. No end date for the policy has been specified at this time. (Source: Finger Lakes Daily News on Dec 31) Finger Lakes Rochester, NY

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