Good morning, Rochester.

Rochester Downtown Alliance announced that vendor applications are open for the 22nd annual Thursdays Downtown season at 1st Avenue and Peace Plaza, where live music, food, and markets happen.

Youth vendors aged 12 to 18 may apply; fee waivers apply for Special Service District businesses (applications close Apr. 10).

Target is set to refresh its stores by expanding grocery options, redesigning beauty areas into a Beauty Studio, and adding a pop culture section called Fun101 at over 600 locations, including one near Rochester.

The overhaul follows a 1.5% drop in fourth-quarter sales.

Fox TV drama Doc in its latest episode (Season 2, Episode 16) mentioned Rochester when a doctor explores new job opportunities linked to The Mayo.

The show blends local Minnesota details with creative storytelling to highlight community ties.

Rochester Public Schools approved a resolution to ask the Legislature to change its school board election from the alley system to an at-large system.

The board expects a decision by the end of the legislative session and will notify candidates before filing begins in mid-July (details pending).

Residents can submit creative names for Rochester’s six street sweepers until March 25 as the city kicks off its season on the 20th anniversary of the A Litter Bit Better event — winning entries will be announced in a mayoral proclamation.

The contest supports cleaner streets and water protection.

Rochester-based Mayo Clinic associate professor Farhad Kosari, who left Iran at 20, discussed the ongoing Operation Epic Fury, noting many celebrated the death of Iran’s supreme leader — a change he supports and expects to spur positive shifts in the country.

The USDA expanded its recall of nearly 37 million pounds of frozen foods sold in Minnesota and Wisconsin due to possible glass fragments, affecting brands like Trader Joe’s, Kroger, and Ajinomoto.

Consumers are advised not to eat these products and to return them for a refund (check safe handling instructions).

Oak Summit Golf Course opened this week amid warm weather, attracting over 100 golfers (including visitors from Duluth) to begin the spring season as staff urged players to secure tee times early.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

World Ballet Company: Cinderella

7-9 p.m. — Mayo Civic Center — Cost details not provided — Experience a magical Broadway-style ballet adaptation of Cinderella featuring a cast of 40 international dancers.