Good morning, Rochester.

Experience Rochester announced Wednesday that Steve Lange, editor of Rochester Magazine for over 25 years, will receive the 2026 Community Champion Award for his storytelling that shapes our local identity.

Rochester residents can help Stamp Out Hunger on Saturday, May 9 by leaving a bag of nonperishable foods by their mailbox, and mail carriers will pick up donations to deliver them to The Salvation Army's downtown food shelf (located on First Ave. NE) to support local families.

Southeast Minnesota will host several city-wide garage sales this May, including Rochester’s event from May 14 to 17.

Other sales are scheduled with Stewartville (May 7-9) and Blooming Prairie (May 15-16) for shoppers looking for vintage treasures and bargains.

A survey by the University of Minnesota Extension shows 45% of residents, businesses and visitors want more entertainment options to expand Rochester’s offerings beyond its Mayo Clinic image.

City leaders plan to use these findings to boost local attractions & festivals.

Delta will stop offering in-flight drink and snack service on economy flights under 350 miles from MSP starting May 19, with Rochester among the routes affected; the change aims to create a more consistent travel experience.

A study from University of Minnesota Extension in partnership with Experience Rochester finds strong local support for expanded visitor attractions + entertainment options.

Residents and business call for more festivals, restaurants, and outdoor recreation while urging balanced growth that addresses rising taxes, traffic, and housing costs in the community.

Earlier Tuesday, Claremont reported a black bear seen in residential areas near a culvert off County Road 3 (less than a mile from one home) about 30 minutes from Rochester; city officials and the sheriff advised residents to remove attractants and keep their distance so the bear could move along.

At the annual Toward Zero Deaths workshop at Rochester International Event Center, state police and road crews reported a 43% decline in traffic fatalities since 2003 — highlighting higher risks for motorcyclists, pedestrians, and drivers over 65.

Officials urge residents to stay alert and follow safe driving practices.

Mayo Clinic and Dr. Michael Joyner will appear in court on July 2 (9:30 a.m.) as Dr. Joyner seeks a new trial after a previous jury rejected his claim of retaliation for sharing research, with prior rulings limiting the evidence allowed.

Mayo Clinic researchers discovered that extra fat around the heart increases the risk of heart attack or stroke.

The 16-year study of 12,000 scans found nearly 10% of patients developed heart disease, a finding that may help doctors target treatments better in the future.

Minnesota health officials updated fish consumption guidelines ahead of the weekend fishing opener, advising anglers on safe amounts of popular species like walleye, northern pike, and bass.

The guidelines outline servings per week or month to help families make informed decisions about eating local fish.

Kristin Surdy, diagnosed with aggressive melanoma last year and treated with immunotherapy since September, now works as a nurse on the Mayo Clinic chemo unit.

She began her nursing role in December 2025 and credits her experience (a silver lining) with helping her support patients.

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.