Daily
Rochester
Thursday, February 12th, 2026
Good morning, Rochester. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 12th of February.
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Forager Brewery in Rochester was named Best Brewery in Minnesota by The Takeout today for its award-winning beers and welcoming taproom — noted for wood-fired pizzas and elevated comfort food that highlight its local charm. KROC-AM
- ➤ Adourn announced that its Chatfield boutique at 218 Main Street S is closing after 13 years while its Red Wing store, open since July 2025, remains available for shoppers. The boutique was loved for its window displays — a local favorite for years. KROC-AM
- ➤ Bitter and Pour was honored with three awards by Rochester Magazine. The cocktail hotspot in downtown Rochester was recognized as Best Place for Cocktails, Best New Bar, and Best Bar (reflecting its popular original speakeasy and hit rooftop venue). KROC-AM
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Rushford-Peterson Schools will return to planning after voters rejected a $24 million referendum for new daycare and gym space. School leaders said they will explore other funding options — addressing ongoing maintenance needs and future growth. KTTC
- ➤ Fifty students from 28 districts competed in two spelling bees at Wood Lake Meeting Center in Rochester, and 12 spellers will advance to a final on March 2 at 9:00 a.m. + the winner will earn a spot in the Scripps National Spelling Bee. KIMT
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ MPCA released its 2026 Climate Action Framework Wednesday, Feb. 11, updating the 2022 plan with input from local businesses and governments. The framework outlines 400 actions aimed at reducing climate pollution + shifting to 100% carbon-free electricity by 2040. KTTC
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ The Olmsted County Attorney declined criminal charges in an investigation of Byron Public School spending issues, including thousands of dollars in unreceipted purchases, and the district, now under Superintendent Nate Walbruch, will work to rebuild trust with the community. KTTC
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Steeplechase owner Justin Steck said the ski area maintains a strong snow base from an early snowmaking season despite warmer weather. He announced a Faith-Based Skiing event scheduled for Friday, Feb. 13 (5 p.m. to 9 p.m.) and will repeat it on Feb. 27. KTTC
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Junior Gold Qualifier at Colonial Lanes
Multiple time slots available — Colonial Lanes — Participation fee required — Compete in a thrilling Junior Gold qualifier with exciting scholarship opportunities.
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Spanish Conversation Meetup
6:30-7:30 p.m. — Rochester Public Library — Free entry — Practice your Spanish speaking skills in a friendly group setting.
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Next Stop Comedy Show
7:00-8:30 p.m. — LC's Venue — Check website for ticket info — Enjoy a fresh lineup of stand-up comedians at this local favorite.
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Kubernetes Administration Training
Feb 23–25 — Huntington Learning Center Rochester — $2490 — Learn Kubernetes to manage containerized applications and prepare for the CKA exam.
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Rend Collective Concert
7-10 p.m. — Mayo Civic Center — Tickets required — Experience a joyous evening of folk-infused worship music with Rend Collective from Northern Ireland.
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French Conversation Coffee Hour
2-3:30 p.m. — Café Aquí — Free entry — Enjoy a cozy coffee hour to practice your French and meet fellow enthusiasts.
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Rochester Dance Company's Robin Hood
6:30-7:30 p.m. — Rochester Civic Theatre — $18 per ticket — Experience a thrilling dance tale of Robin Hood and his adventures set to a fun blend of music for the whole family.
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Charlotte's Web
Noon, 2 p.m. — Rochester Civic Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience the heartwarming tale of friendship and courage in this family-friendly adaptation of a beloved classic.
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Gary Allan Concert
7:30-11 p.m. — Mayo Civic Center — Ticket prices available — Enjoy a night of country music at the Mayo Civic Center with Gary Allan.
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2026 Midwest Motorsports Expo
9 a.m. – 4 p.m. — Mayo Civic Center — $10 for adults, kids 10 & under free — Explore a one-day show featuring over 60 high-performance dealers and manufacturers from around the country.
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