Good morning, Rochester.

Beth Anne Benike from Oronoco was named Minnesota Small Business Person of the Year by the Small Business Administration.

An Army veteran who started Busy Baby in 2020—now operating in a 7,000-square-foot facility with five employees—mentors 25 female entrepreneurs as she awaits national recognition on May 5.

University of Minnesota President Rebecca Cunningham visited downtown Rochester on Thursday at 8:15 a.m. to outline her All-Minnesota healthcare solution—she discussed plans to improve the state's healthcare workforce and highlighted the university’s partnership with state leaders.

A civil suit disputing the residency of the November winner for Rochester City Council Ward 4 was filed by former council member Kelly Rae Kirkpatrick and other residents and will have its first court hearing on May 5 as council member Andrew Friederichs denies living in Marion Township.

Rochester's Heritage Preservation Commission voted to block developer Hal Henderson's plan for a mixed-use tower in the Downtown Historic District that would tear down a 19th century building and keep only its front facade—its decision will be forwarded to City Council for a vote.

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.

UX Bootcamp: Graphic Design Training

9 a.m. — Rochester Community and Technical College: Department of Art+Design — Varies — Gain practical skills in graphic design with comprehensive training in Adobe tools.

Let’s Speak German!

4-6 p.m. — Define Conference Room at One Discovery Square — Free entry — All skill levels welcome to practice German conversation in a friendly setting.

Easter Brunch

10 a.m. - 2 p.m. — 1635 US-52, Rochester, MN — Reservations required — Enjoy a delightful Easter meal with friends and family in a cozy setting.

Unleash the SHE Run 2025 Rochester

All day — Little Thistle Brewing — Cost varies — Participate in a community-focused 5K, 10K, and family-friendly events supporting ovarian cancer awareness.

11th Annual TIMMAY 5k Fun RUN/ WALK

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

Python for Scientists Training Class

Apr 28 - May 2 — Hawthorne Education Center — $2090 — Enhance your skills with hands-on Python training tailored for scientific applications.

DJ Bingo Night

7-8:30 p.m. — The Workshop Food Hall & Bar — Free entry — Test your musical knowledge with a fun twist on bingo as you match song clips on the TVs.