Good morning, Rochester.

EarthFest Expo returns Saturday, May 2 with free, hands-on activities at Saint Mary's University – Rochester Campus and Cascade Meadow.

The event runs 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and features sustainability workshops, live music, eco-friendly showcases, and guided tours, connecting local organizations and residents to practical green living.

Residents at Cascade Creek care facility enjoyed a visit from two lambs brought by a local sheep farmer this morning, where many pet and bottle fed the animals (Sweet is 6 weeks old, Finn is 8 weeks old) that sparked fond memories and shared stories.

Rochester’s newest McAlister’s Deli will open May 11 in The Shoppes on Second Center near Saint Mary’s Hospital, offering sandwiches + baked potatoes as part of the chain’s expansion into the area.

Rochester drivers now face gas prices topping $4 a gallon for the first time in four years, while state averages hold at $3.93 and the national average is $4.23 (with some states charging nearly $6), prompting locals to adjust their driving habits.

GasBuddy reports show that Costco (membership required) now offers gas at about $3.99/gal while Fleet Farm lists it at $3.89/gal and Sinclair in downtown sells at $3.99, so drivers should verify current prices before driving further for savings.

Drivers on state highways should expect lane closures from 7 p.m. to 5:30 a.m. starting Sunday, May 3 until May 7 and again May 10-14 as crews clean highways and bridges in Rochester.

Maintenance crews will use high-pressure water and sweep debris in advance of bridge work starting May 17.

The Olmsted County Housing and Redevelopment Authority has announced a $3 million funding opportunity under its GAIN program to support building modest homes priced at or below $350,000.

Applications are open through June 15 for public, private + nonprofit developers.

Mayo Clinic in Rochester announced it will shift its hiring model starting tomorrow — job postings will be designated as hybrid or on-site and hybrid roles will require staff to live within 100 miles of their assigned site.

Rochester Honkers will play their final season at historic Mayo Field when opening on May 27 as they plan to find a new home while officials study modern improvements; the stadium will continue to host high school and youth games.

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.

The SpongeBob Musical

7:00 – 9:30 PM — Rochester Civic Theatre — Adults $37, Seniors $32, Students $29 — Join SpongeBob and friends in a race against a volcano to save Bikini Bottom.

Med City Marathon

7 a.m. — Rochester International Airport — Registration required — Experience the unique challenge of a 20-mile race in the scenic surroundings of Rochester, Minnesota.

Three Dog Night Concert

10 a.m. – 8:30 p.m. — Mayo Civic Center — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a day filled with iconic rock music from Three Dog Night.

SOULED OUT Wrestling Event

6:30-9:30 p.m. — Historic Chateau Theatre — Tickets on sale now — Witness the unveiling of the powerful team ‘Souled Out’ in an unforgettable wrestling showdown.