Friday, March 20th, 2026
Good morning, Rochester. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 20th of March.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Retired and active volunteer nurses in Rochester now offer a free ceremonial tribute for fallen caregivers at funerals, memorial events, and hospices – including a spoken tribute, lamp lighting, nurse pledge, and white rose presentation that families, clergy, or funeral directors can request online for Rochester and neighboring Wisconsin cities. KTTC
- ➤ Rochester Public Schools Community Education and the City of Rochester Parks & Recreation Department ask residents to take an online survey until April 12 to share input on local recreation programs. Feedback will help shape future programming and guide outreach. KIMT
- ➤ Families in Rochester can enjoy Easter egg hunts at local venues, including a free outdoor hunt with golden egg prizes at Monkey Junction on Saturday, Mar. 21 + community events on April 4 and April 12 at nearby sites. KROC-AM
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ Insurance and repair experts warn that melting snow from last weekend's winter storm could trigger flooding risks this weekend if water drains and downspouts remain blocked. Homeowners are advised to inspect for leaks and cracks to prevent costly damage. KTTC
- ➤ If skies stay clear, Minnesota may see the dazzling Northern Lights tonight (peak viewing from 9:00 pm to midnight) as NOAA data shows increased activity. Residents are advised to move away from city lights to better enjoy the rare display. KROC-AM
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Last weekend during a blizzard, strong winds pushed a tree onto power lines — triggering an outage and a bright light show near downtown. Rochester Public Utilities quickly cleared the debris and reset breakers to restore service for thousands of homes. KROC-AM
- ➤ MnDOT crews are clearing melting snow from roads after a weekend snowfall and scraping remaining slush into ditches — drivers should check for slippery spots and follow spring load restrictions to prevent highway damage. KTTC
- ➤ The Rochester Police Department will honor nearly 60 officers and community members tonight at 6 p.m. at the Rochester International Event Center as Chief Jim Franklin presents letters of recognition, commendation awards + lifesaving awards. KTTC
- ➤ City crews are clearing snow from streets and curbs to prevent pooling as warmer temperatures melt the snow. Residents are asked to report blocked storm drains by calling 311 (and to avoid pushing snow into the streets) to help keep drainage flowing. KIMT
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Two Rochester state lawmakers have signed on to proposed legislation to remove the religious or personal belief exemption for the MMR vaccine—allowing only medical exemptions—while health officials note that kindergarten vaccination rates are falling. KTTC
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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.
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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.
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The Glenn Miller Orchestra Concert
7-9 p.m. — Historic Chateau Theatre — Ticketed event — Experience the enchanting jazz sounds of The Glenn Miller Orchestra live with classic hits.
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TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
The graveyard is the richest place on earth, because it is here that you will find all the hopes and dreams that were never fulfilled.
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Reveal the authorAbout Daily Rochester
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