Robert Bell

Community News and Outreach Editor at Democrat and Chronicle

Photographer | Writer| Filmmaker | Community News Editor at @DandC @usatoday network

Articles

Xerox to shut down some manufacturing operations in Webster

May 1, 2024 | democratandchronicle.com | Robert Bell

Xerox has revealed plans to end print engine manufacturing operations at its Webster campus by June 30. According to a press release, the company has announced its intention to discontinue manufacturing the Xerox iGen 5 Press and the Xerox Nuvera Presses. Both are considered legacy platforms that played pivotal roles in shaping the Production Print industry. "Xerox is putting a greater focus on our innovative technology in workflow automation," the statement reads.
Rochester City Council calls for state inquiry into DA Sandra Doorley's conduct in traffic stop

Apr 27, 2024 | democratandchronicle.com | Robert Bell

Robert BellRochester Democrat and ChronicleToday, all nine members of the Rochester City Council jointly penned a letter addressed to New York State Attorney General Letitia James urging an inquiry into Monroe County District Attorney Sandra Doorley's actions during a traffic stop by a Webster police officer Monday. Doorley was speeding, going 55 mph in a 35 mph zone, and did not stop for Officer Cameron Crisafulli after he activated his emergency lights.
DIY solar eclipse glasses: Is it safe to make your own eclipse glasses?

Apr 7, 2024 | democratandchronicle.com | Robert Bell

Don't look up! Not without a particular pair of solar eclipse glasses. As the rare April 8th solar eclipse approaches, a celestial event where the moon passes between the sun and Earth — experts strongly advise people to heed this crucial guidance. In western New York, where the path of totality lies, a select area offering the best view of the moon perfectly aligning with the sun, people are prioritizing their safety by obtaining specialized solar eclipse glasses.
Rochester gears up for solar eclipse: What's open and closed on April 8, 2024

Apr 4, 2024 | democratandchronicle.com | Robert Bell

Robert BellRochester Democrat and ChronicleThe city of Rochester expects hundreds of thousands of people to enter the region on Monday, April 8, for the solar eclipse. The following city facilities will be closed to the public in anticipation of the influx. Rochester City HallNeighborhood Service CentersThe Loretta C.
City seeks new management for Blue Cross Arena in Rochester NY

Apr 3, 2024 | democratandchronicle.com | Robert Bell

Robert BellRochester Democrat and ChronicleRochester is looking for someone to manage the Blue Cross Arena. Mayor Malik Evans announced on Tuesday the city has officially released a Request for Proposals (RFP) regarding the operation and management of the 14,000-seat arena at the War Memorial. This initiative is part of the City's Roc the Riverway project, which includes a $7 million upgrade for the arena. The news does not affect the Rochester Americans’ or Knighthawks’ occupancy.
Effort to establish downtown Rochester BID fizzles after public outcry

Mar 21, 2024 | democratandchronicle.com | Robert Bell

Robert BellRochester Democrat and ChronicleOne week after city residents flooded a speak-to-city council session with their fears of a potential Business Improvement District, the effort to establish a BID in downtown Rochester is dead.
'What are people supposed to do?' Emotional speak-to-council session packs City Hall

Mar 15, 2024 | democratandchronicle.com | Robert Bell

Robert BellRochester Democrat and ChronicleWhat resembled bodies wrapped in bloody white sheets lined Church Street outside of Rochester City Hall for a demonstration on the Israel-Hamas war Thursday night. It was just one of a converging storm of issues on city residents' minds that compelled 150 people to sign up for an emotional speak-to-city council session. The line to enter city hall wound its way around the corner.
Li-Cycle secures $75 million investment from Glencore amid expansion pause

Mar 14, 2024 | democratandchronicle.com | Robert Bell

Robert BellRochester Democrat and ChronicleLi-Cycle, the battery recycler that halted plans for an expansion in Rochester, announced this week that it has agreed to a $75 million investment from Glencore, a producer, recycler, and marketer of nickel and cobalt for the production of lithium-ion batteries. According to Li-Cycle, the investment is expected to close by the end of March, subject to closing conditions, and signals their commitment to development plans for a Rochester Hub.
Bello announces 7.8M plan for affordable housing; advocates push back

Mar 13, 2024 | democratandchronicle.com | Robert Bell

Robert BellRochester Democrat and ChronicleJackie, a mother of two young children, resides with her family due to difficulties finding an apartment after losing her job. Challenges arise as her income, credit score, and eviction history hinder her search for suitable housing. Additionally, she struggles to find accommodations within proximity to her children's school and accessible to a bus line, which is essential for securing and maintaining employment.
Just 3 blocks but outsized footprint in Rochester bad-news headlines: Weld Street examined

Mar 11, 2024 | democratandchronicle.com | Madison Scott |Robert Bell

It's only a few short blocks. But Weld Street, in north-central Rochester, shares many things in common with most residential streets in the city. Community is important to Weld Street and happy families live there, trying to get by in a difficult economy, with higher-than-expected rents, troubled schooling and unhelpful public transportation. There are spots of beauty on Weld. It also can be a street where your safety is at risk. Open air drug dealing and using is common.