Good morning, Rochester.

Ben Conway, president and CEO of HALCON Furniture, will retire on June 9 after a 23-year career with the company that includes 13 years as president—HALCON is promoting Adam Wright to COO as it begins its search for a new president.

Ethan Charles Olson, a 28-year-old man from Canton, faced arraignment in Fillmore County Court on 32 counts of possession of child pornography after an investigation linked his online profiles to addresses in Olmsted and Fillmore counties—bail was set at $100,000.

On March 20, select southern Minnesota residents met at a limited town hall held by Rep. Brad Finstad’s team outside his Rochester office to express concerns over federal employee cuts, union protections, Medicaid, Social Security and Ukraine aid — though the congressman did not attend the meeting. Many locals said they want more direct action, and additional town halls are planned to address these issues.

MnDOT held public events to share details about road work projects that will take place in southeast Minnesota this year — the plans include building a roundabout north of Rochester, resurfacing Hwy.14 and continuing work on two major projects along I-90.

The American Gaming Association estimates Americans will wager $3.1 billion on the NCAA tournaments today—15% more than last year.

In Minnesota, a recent effort to legalize sports betting stalled in February, leaving its future unresolved.

Rochester Thaw Music Festival 2025

The Rochester Thaw Music Festival features 30 performances across 6 stages, providing a vibrant cultural experience for attendees of all ages in downtown Rochester.

Rochester Princess Day

Rochester Princess Day offers children the chance to engage with beloved fairytale characters through performances, crafts, and interactive activities.

Perennial Gardening 101: Tips and New Varieties

This seminar offers expert gardening advice on light, soil conditions, bloom timing, and introduces new varieties for perennial plants.

Succulent Zen Garden Workshop

2-3 p.m. | Sargent's on 2nd | $25 registration fee deducted from purchases | Create your own indoor succulent garden with guidance and all materials provided.

Rochester Minnesota Female Entrepreneurs Meet-Up

2:30-3:30 p.m. — Collider Foundation — Free entry — Connect with fellow female entrepreneurs and share ideas in a supportive networking environment.

Priority Construction Bull Riding Challenge

7 p.m. — Graham Arena Complex — Ticketed event — Experience thrilling bull riding and concerts at this annual sold-out event.

Let's Speak German!

4-6 p.m. — Define Conference Room at One Discovery Square — Free entry — Engage in a welcoming environment for all skill levels to practice German conversational skills.

Watercolor Florals Class

12:00 – 4:15 PM — Sargent's on 2nd — Materials included — Create stunning watercolor and charcoal floral art with guidance from local artist Willow.

The Dink Minor League Pickleball Tournament

7 p.m. — Chip Shots — Join fellow pickleball enthusiasts in a local tournament showcasing community spirit and sporting fun.

German Language Conversation Group

4-6 p.m. — One Discovery Square — Free entry — Practice your German skills in a friendly and inclusive environment.

11th Annual TIMMAY 5k Fun RUN/ WALK

Fun Walk/ Run to Promote Organ Donor Awareness. Proceeds support The Gift Of Life Transplant House.