Here's your local news at a glance for Tuesday, the 19th of May.
Good morning, Rochester.
Several law enforcement agencies gathered Monday at the Soldiers Field memorial to honor 45 fallen officers (with family members and officials observing with songs, prayers, and a rose for each name).
Olmsted County Sheriff Kevin Torgerson said the ceremony underscored the community's commitment to remembering its officers.
More than 3,000 surveys were mailed today to gather local views on race and immigration in Olmsted County, in a study led by Rochester’s own Dr. Charlotte Kunkel that builds on surveys from 1990, 2006 and 2016.
Rochester’s Parks and Recreation Department earned an Award of Excellence — chosen from 45 applications — for a $23.5M Soldiers Field Memorial Park upgrade completed between 2023 and 2025.
An awards member will present the honor at the Park Board meeting on June 2.
Honor Bound Veterans is hosting a 5k fun run on Saturday, June 20 at Cascade Lake Park (Zumbro West Park) with check-in at 8:30 a.m., a run kicking off at 10:00 a.m., and a closing ceremony featuring lunch and live music to support local veterans.
On Sunday, Zumbrota Area Ambulance hosted an open house that let local families explore emergency vehicles, equipment, and interactive displays (highlighting first responders’ roles) as part of efforts to boost public confidence.
Beloved Rochester chef Youness Bojji has been nominated for the national 2026 Favorite Chef competition presented by Carla Hall (with prizes including $25,000 and a magazine feature) and will donate his winnings to help children if he wins.
Public voting begins June 1.
Gas prices in Minnesota increased by 25.5 cents per gallon this week to average $4.42 while diesel dipped to $5.61 (global oil supplies remain tight).
A survey-based study by Today's Homeowner found that lily of the valley is Minnesota's most popular spring flower, with residents welcoming the early bloom as nature outlasts winter.
The USPS will close the Hunt Silver Lake Postal Station at 1510 N Broadway on June 25; the facility has served the community since 1959, and residents are worried about longer lines and limited parking at the alternative location (Valleyhigh).
A new survey shows that Rochester’s median home price rose from $188,942 in 2016 to $339,445 today — a nearly 80% increase in just 10 years.
The growth, while still below the national average, marks a significant shift in local real estate.
The Rochester City Council will discuss plans for an indoor sports facility at its June 1 meeting and consider public input after state funding changes failed before the legislative session ended (options include indoor pickleball, play areas and basketball courts).
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.
Sal Vulcano's Everything’s Fine Tour
5-7 p.m. — Mayo Civic Center, Rochester, MN — Tickets available — Enjoy brand-new stand-up from the comedic genius of Impractical Jokers.
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