In the vibrant city of Rochester, New York, there is a community-driven movement making waves and warming hearts—We Are Rochester. This inspiring initiative symbolizes Rochester's dedication to fostering unity and support among its
residents. It emphasizes the unique qualities that make this city a wonderful place to live, showcasing the diverse and resilient spirit that defines Rochester.
We Are Rochester captures the very essence of community collaboration, highlighting stories of local residents and small businesses who contribute tirelessly to the city's growth and well-being. It fosters a sense of shared purpose and belonging, whether through uplifting
Community Spirit
Hello Rochester, New York • Winter Issue |5
local artist showcases, engaging community projects, or spotlighting the passionate individuals passionately working to make Rochester a better place.
The initiative also plays a vital role in promoting Rochester's rich cultural tapestry. From its world-class museums and galleries to its bustling food scene and innovative tech industry, We Are Rochester celebrates the energy that surges through this city. More than just a
campaign, it’s a heartfelt reminder of the city’s solidarity, resilience, and commitment to progress.
In Rochester, New York, We Are Rochester is more than a slogan—it's a testament to a thriving community, always ready to uplift each other and shine brightly together.
Community Spirit
Community Spirit: We Are Rochester's Heartfelt Impact
In the vibrant city of Rochester, New York, there is a community-driven movement making waves and warming hearts—We Are Rochester. This inspiring initiative symbolizes Rochester's dedication to fostering unity and support among its residents. It emphasizes the unique qualities that make this city a wonderful place to live, showcasing the diverse and resilient spirit that defines Rochester.
We Are Rochester captures the very essence of community collaboration, highlighting stories of local residents and small businesses who contribute tirelessly to the city's growth and well-being. It fosters a sense of shared purpose and belonging, whether through uplifting local artist showcases, engaging community projects, or spotlighting the passionate individuals passionately working to make Rochester a better place.
The initiative also plays a vital role in promoting Rochester's rich cultural tapestry. From its world-class museums and galleries to its bustling food scene and innovative tech industry, We Are Rochester celebrates the energy that surges through this city. More than just a campaign, it’s a heartfelt reminder of the city’s solidarity, resilience, and commitment to progress.
In Rochester, New York, We Are Rochester is more than a slogan—it's a testament to a thriving community, always ready to uplift each other and shine brightly together.
FEATURED STORY
Truck Accidents Near Rochester Highways, How These Cases Differ
by John Wright
Truck accidents near Rochester highways often raise legal questions that don’t appear in typical car crashes. Routes like I-390 and I-490 carry heavy commercial traffic, including tractor-trailers, each day. When a collision involves a large truck, the size of the vehicle and the nature of commercial driving change how the case is examined.One key difference is that truck accident cases often involve multiple responsible parties. In a standard car crash, liability typically focuses on the drivers involved. In a commercial truck accident,
6 | HelloRochester, New York • Winter Issue
John Wright
ABOUT THE AUTHOR ohn K. Wright is a Rochester-based personal injury trial lawyer who focuses on helping people injured New Yorkers in serious accidents across New York. For more than 25 years, he has devoted his legal career exclusively to representing injured individuals.
responsibility may extend to the trucking company, the vehicle owner, a maintenance provider, or even a parts manufacturer.Truck drivers operate under strict federal and New York trucking regulations that don’t apply to ordinary motorists. These rules govern hours of service, vehicle inspections, load limits, and required safety training. A violation of these regulations can play a central role in determining fault after a crash.Unlike typical car accidents, truck accident cases often turn on whether companies knew—or should have known—about unsafe practices before the crash.
Hello Rochester, New York • Winter Issue |7
Truck Accidents Near Rochester Highways, How These Cases Differ
Truck accidents near Rochester highways often raise legal questions that don’t appear in typical car crashes. Routes like I-390 and I-490 carry heavy commercial traffic, including tractor-trailers, each day. When a collision involves a large truck, the size of the vehicle and the nature of commercial driving change how the case is examined.
One key difference is that truck accident cases often involve multiple responsible parties. In a standard car crash, liability typically focuses on the drivers involved. In a commercial truck accident, responsibility may extend to the trucking company, the vehicle owner, a maintenance provider, or even a parts manufacturer.
Truck drivers operate under strict federal and New York trucking regulations that don’t apply to ordinary motorists. These rules govern hours of service, vehicle inspections, load limits, and required safety training. A violation of these regulations can play a central role in determining fault after a crash.
Unlike typical car accidents, truck accident cases often turn on whether companies knew—or should have known—about unsafe practices before the crash. This may include allowing a driver to exceed legal driving hours, failing to inspect brakes, or ignoring prior safety violations. Establishing this knowledge can be critical in proving negligence.
Another major difference involves evidence. Commercial trucks generate detailed records, including driver logs, electronic data, maintenance reports, and shipping documents. These records can reveal patterns of fatigue, skipped inspections, or improper loading that contributed to the accident. Preserving and reviewing this information requires careful attention early in the case.
Insurance coverage also sets truck accidents apart. Commercial trucking companies typically carry much larger insurance policies than private drivers. While this may increase available compensation, it also leads to more aggressive defense strategies and closer scrutiny of every claim. Disputes over liability and damages can become more complex as a result.
Determining who’s responsible in a New York truck crash depends on the specific facts. The truck driver may be liable for careless driving or violating traffic laws. The trucking company may be responsible for negligent hiring, poor training, or unsafe scheduling practices. In some cases, a third party that serviced the truck or loaded the cargo may share fault.
To succeed in a commercial truck accident case, certain elements must be proven. The injured party must show that a duty of care existed, that the duty was breached, and that the breach caused measurable harm. In truck cases, this often involves linking regulatory violations or unsafe company practices directly to the collision.
Truck accidents near Rochester highways can result in severe injuries due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles. Understanding how these cases differ from car crashes helps clarify why they are handled with greater care and detail. The added layers of responsibility, regulation, and evidence make commercial truck accident cases distinct under New York law.
Unlike typical car accidents,truck accidentcases often turn onwhether companies knew—or shouldhave known—aboutunsafe practices beforethe crash.
This may include allowing a driver to exceed legal driving hours, failing to inspect brakes, or ignoring prior safety violations. Establishing this knowledge can be critical in proving negligence.Another major difference involves evidence. Commercial trucks generate detailed records, including driver logs, electronic data, maintenance reports, and shipping documents. These records can reveal patterns of fatigue, skipped inspections, or improper loading that contributed to the...
FEATURED STORY
HelloNation at the USCM Meeting, and Why the Partnership Matters
by Nicole Rongo
The United States Conference of Mayors (USCM) convenes each year in Washington, D.C., bringing together mayors from across the country to discuss pressing urban challenges and national policy priorities. The Winter Meeting, scheduled this year for January 28 to January 30, 2026, is one of the organization’s key gatherings where civic leaders engage with federal decision makers, exchange best practices, and shape agendas that affect communities across the nation.The USCM was established during the Great Depression as a forum for mayors to confront shared difficulties,
8 | HelloRochester, New York • Winter Issue
Nicole Rongo
ABOUT THE AUTHOR Nicole Rongo is Vice President of Government Relations & Strategic Partnerships at CGI Digital, Inc. Over her 20 year tenure, she has built hundreds of partnerships with municipal and county governments, chambers of commerce, and member-driven organizations nationwide, and serves as the primary point of contact for CGI Digital’s national partnerships with the U.S. Conference of Mayors, the National League of Cities, and the National Association of Counties, advancing trusted, mission-driven ...
advocate for municipal needs, and collaborate on effective solutions. Today it remains the leading nonpartisan voice for U.S. cities in the nation’s capital. Its foundational purpose is to promote strong federal-city relationships, develop forward-looking urban and suburban policy, and provide mayors with tools and connections to lead effectively at home.At its core, the Winter Meeting is designed to foster direct engagement between mayors and top-level officials from the White House, the current administration, and Congress. Participants use the conference agenda to highlight local priorities, address emerging
Hello Rochester, New York • Winter Issue |9
HelloNation at the USCM Meeting, and Why the Partnership Matters
The United States Conference of Mayors (USCM) convenes each year in Washington, D.C., bringing together mayors from across the country to discuss pressing urban challenges and national policy priorities. The Winter Meeting, scheduled this year for January 28 to January 30, 2026, is one of the organization’s key gatherings where civic leaders engage with federal decision makers, exchange best practices, and shape agendas that affect communities across the nation. The USCM was established during the Great Depression as a forum for mayors to confront shared difficulties, advocate for municipal needs, and collaborate on effective solutions. Today it remains the leading nonpartisan voice for U.S. cities in the nation’s capital. Its foundational purpose is to promote strong federal-city relationships, develop forward-looking urban and suburban policy, and provide mayors with tools and connections to lead effectively at home. At its core, the Winter Meeting is designed to foster direct engagement between mayors and top-level officials from the White House, the current administration, and Congress. Participants use the conference agenda to highlight local priorities, address emerging national issues, and work toward shared goals that can improve infrastructure, public safety, housing, and economic opportunity. The annual convening also provides a platform for mayors to share best practices with one another. In formal sessions and informal conversations, leaders from diverse regions and city sizes exchange insights on innovation, crisis response, and community building. This cross-city dialogue often leads to collaborative initiatives that extend far beyond the conference halls. HelloNation’s engagement with the United States Conference of Mayors is a continuation of the two decade tenure that began with CGI Digital. Our organization has supported the USCM mission by amplifying the voices of city leaders through cutting-edge video programs and continues now with reporting on the practical impact of policy discussions and resolutions that matter to their citizens. The partnership has always been rooted in a shared commitment to telling the stories of municipal leadership and the ways cities adapt to change and pursue sustainable growth. Through editorial coverage, interviews, and multimedia storytelling, HelloNation broadens public understanding of the complex issues that mayors address daily. Renowned actor, Christopher McDonald, HelloNation’s national spokesperson, will be present at this year’s Winter Meeting, representing our continued interest in municipal affairs and our partnership with the USCM. McDonald’s presence underscores the importance HelloNation places on engaging directly with the leaders shaping local government responses to economic, social, and environmental challenges. This year’s conference agenda includes discussions on urban innovation, federal policy engagement, and strategic partnerships that can help cities thrive. While the Winter Meeting’s principal focus remains advocacy and policy exchange, it also offers valuable networking opportunities for mayors and stakeholders from the public and private sectors. These connections often lead to new collaborations that benefit cities and their residents. HelloNation, CGI Digital in partnership with USCM and America 250 will be filming Mayors at the event for what the 250th anniversary means to them and their cities. For HelloNation, attending the USCM Winter Meeting is an opportunity to witness and document how mayors articulate their communities’ priorities at the national level and to share those insights with our audience. With mayors from across the country convening to set policy directions and exchange ideas, the conference is a vital forum for understanding how local leadership influences broader national conversations.
The Winter Meeting isone ofthe organization’s keygatherings
national issues, and work toward shared goals that can improve infrastructure, public safety, housing, and economic opportunity.The annual convening also provides a platform for mayors to share best practices with one another. In formal sessions and informal conversations, leaders from diverse regions and city sizes exchange insights on innovation, crisis response, and community building. This cross-city dialogue often leads to collaborative initiatives that extend far...
