Good morning, Rochester.

Data from the MoveBuddha Moving Cost Calculator (July 2025–January 2026) shows that Rochester is now the leading destination with an inbound-to-outbound ratio of 1.37.

The strong job market, food scene and community vibe drive rising interest in the area.

2nd Street Joe, a local icon known for his daily flag-waving outside Saint Marys Hospital, was targeted by an anonymous online post that criticized his Pepsi outfit + many residents have rallied to defend his long-standing tribute to his late father.

Minnesota Energy Resources is inviting residents to vote for its next safe digging ambassadog by reviewing interactive dog profiles.

Voting will remain open until 11:59 p.m. Monday, April 20 (and remember to call 811 at least two days before you dig to mark underground utilities safely).

Burlington will open its new NW Rochester store this spring on Marketplace Drive NW (in the former Joann Fabrics space) with wider aisles and bold signage to guide shoppers.

The store sits next to Target North to offer a modern shopping experience.

Minnesota Severe Weather Awareness Week will run from Monday, Apr.

13 to Friday, Apr. 17 and will share daily tips on weather hazards including tornadoes, floods and extreme heat. Statewide tornado drills will take place at 1:45 p.m. and 6:45 p.m. Thursday, Apr. 16 — the National Weather Service will not issue test alerts.

The Head and Neck Cancer Foundation is hosting free oral cancer screenings to mark Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Week (Apr.

13 to 17). The events will be held in Owatonna on April 15 (3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.) and in Rochester on April 16 (2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.) with no appointment needed.

507 Parade of Homes is featuring a $6.5 million custom home on Trident Ln SW this weekend from noon to 4 p.m.—admission is $7 and proceeds will support a nonprofit building homes for those in need.

12th Annual Timmay 5k Run/Walk

9-11 a.m. — Silver Lake Park - East Shelter — Registration fees apply — Raise awareness for organ donation while enjoying a morning run or walk in the community.

Hometown Half Marathon & 5k/10k

Hometown Half Marathon & 5k/10k — May 2 — Rochester, Minnesota — Entry fees apply — Experience a spirited community run in the heart of Rochester.

Gold Rush Antique Show

8 a.m.-6 p.m. — Graham Arena Complex — Admission good all three days — Explore hundreds of vendors offering antiques, collectibles, and unique finds.