Thursday, February 19th, 2026
Good morning, Rochester. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 19th of February.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Non-Profit Wrench, led by Jesse Campbell & his volunteers, has helped Rochester residents for five years by offering free car repairs, snow shoveling and junk removal. Slow donations and overhead costs including $1200 for utilities and $3000 for lease may force a cut in services unless support grows. KIMT
- ➤ Experience Rochester is partnering with the University of Minnesota Extension to gather local opinions on tourism’s benefits, challenges, and impact on the visitor economy — residents can complete the survey by March 22. KIMT
- ➤ Experience Rochester and the University of Minnesota Rochester launched a free, confidential survey for Olmsted County residents to share their views on future tourism in Med City—seeking community input. The survey is part of a long-range Tourism Master Plan and focuses on gathering ideas for non-medical tourism. KTTC
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ GasBuddy analysis shows that Sunday is the best day for Rochester drivers to fill up, as refueling may cost a few cents less per gallon when average prices are at ($2.57). Petroleum expert Patrick De Haan warned that costs may soon rise with seasonal changes. KTTC
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ The Center Street Parking Ramp at 11 W Center St. will close March 23 for repairs and reopen in early August, and drivers may press the + button at yellow parking meters to get 10 minutes of free parking as downtown spaces remain tighter amid Mayo Clinic expansion. KROC-AM
- ➤ Rochester Public Works is studying Elton Hills Drive and asking residents for feedback on lane changes that include adding two-way bike lanes. Local community members worry that reducing lanes could bottleneck traffic and not slow speeding while road repairs are needed. KTTC
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Local scientists from the Hormel Institute, Mayo Clinic & University of Minnesota Masonic Cancer Center have formed the Minnesota Metastasis Research Network to study cancer metastasis and understand its process. They aim to refine research so cancer spread becomes a manageable disease. KTTC
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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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The Seasons Ice Dance Performance
6:45-8:15 p.m. — Rochester Recreation Center — Ticket options available — Experience the artistry and athleticism of world-class skaters in a dazzling ice dance performance.
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Highland Romance: A Kid's Concert Experience
3-9:30 p.m. — Mayo Civic Center — Ticket required for entry — A vibrant concert journey through art and classical storytelling for children.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
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