Good morning, Rochester.

On Sunday, May 10, Camp Companion in Rochester welcomed six rescued beagles from Ridglan Farms as part of a 1,500-dog release due to care issues, and volunteers assisted with vet checks and feeding as the pups remain off adoption while they adjust.

Rochester Public Library has set up a Construction Viewing Area for kids to watch the ongoing work on the Link bus station.

The first-floor display features large windows with informational signs and books on construction + free parking is available nearby.

The MN Zoo is hosting Feast with the Beasts on May 16, 6:00 — 10:00 p.m. for a 21+ evening at the zoo featuring animal feedings, craft beer gardens, and live 90s music at Weesner Amphitheater.

Tickets start at $40 and must be purchased online.

The Mayo Civic Center is seeking local food trucks, restaurants and beverage vendors for the free Down by the Riverside Music Series, featuring a new act each Sunday from July 12 to August 9 in Mayo Park at 7 p.m. Vendors must apply by May 29 (see site for details).

A new report by Traceone says that Olmsted County farms face nearly $897K in yearly losses due to severe weather — averaging $814 per farm — with drought as the worst threat.

The report notes that these losses could impact local agriculture in its $337 million annual sales as the growing season begins.

Marie Volkmuth earned her bachelor’s degree at UMR and became certified in echocardiography through Mayo Clinic’s MCIS program, which offers a four-year scholarship for students to explore medical careers such as radiography and respiratory care.

The program has produced over 60 professionals since 2020 and prepares talent for healthcare roles.

Brent Rempe, head of First Alliance Credit Union, was named 2026 Outstanding Credit Union Professional of the Year by Minnesota Credit Union Network on April 28 at MnCUN ACCELERATE '26 at Mystic Lake Center as his leadership expanded financial services for more counties.

The president has proposed pausing the federal gas tax to lower pump prices — analysis estimates a potential drop of about 13 cents per gallon while federal highway funding may decline; Minnesota lawmakers are not considering the idea amid a busy legislative session.

Fresh Air Fitness is hosting free yoga classes on Wednesday nights at The Deck starting May 27 and free Zumba sessions on Saturday mornings at Peace Plaza from May 30 through June 27 + the events are open to all fitness levels with free parking available after 5 p.m.

Mayo Clinic Laboratory validated a hantavirus test and will soon offer in-house testing; Dr. Matt Binnicker said southeast Minnesota residents need not worry as the virus spreads slowly.

Until then, samples requiring testing today are sent to a partnering lab.

Mayo Clinic announced that CEO Dr. Gianrico Farrugia will end his eight-year tenure at the end of this year — the board expects to elect a new president in November with the transition starting on Jan.

1, 2027. The hospital will maintain its care and research missions during this change.

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.

Breakthrough Basketball Ball Handling and Scoring Camp

Ball Handling and Scoring Skills — June 9-11 — Rochester Community and Technical College — Registration needed — Improve your dribbling, shooting, and overall game skills at this high-intensity camp.

AACA Annual Meeting 2026

Various times — Rochester, MN — Registration required — Explore the latest in higher education research and career opportunities.