Good morning, Rochester.

Niche released its 2026 rankings, naming Olmsted County as Minnesota's second-best place to live due to its strong schools, healthcare, and job opportunities.

Hennepin County ranked first, with the study highlighting local quality of life and amenities.

Officials from Olmsted County Housing and Redevelopment Authority, Veteran Services, and the Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans plan to convert a 50-year-old vacant lot into up to 12 affordable housing units for homeless veterans — construction has not started yet, and residents may be welcomed by late this year or early next year.

Residents are invited to join the Adopt-a-Park Program to pick up litter and report park issues.

Local groups, families and organizations can adopt a park to help keep greenspaces safe & clean.

Zumbro River Community Festival will be held Saturday, June 27 at Camp Victory near Zumbro Falls and features free family activities such as inflatables, laser tag, miniature golf, face painting, crafts, zipline, and a fireworks show at dusk.

After a brief delay caused by inclement weather and a Monday inspection, the newly renovated Silver Lake Pool opens today at Silver Lake Park.

The facility is part of a $10.5 million park improvement plan and offers a climbing wall, splash pad, 25 yard lap pool and zero entry ramp for families.

Rochester will host its July 4th celebration with full programming that includes live music, food vendors, and community activities on Independence Day.

About 115 middle school students explore seven career pathways in a three-day summer program at Rochester Community and Technical College's Heintz Center from today through Thursday, June 11 - the Carl Perkins Federal Grant sponsors hands-on learning in agriculture, culinary, construction, health sciences, IT, manufacturing, and emergency services.

Mayo Clinic researchers in Rochester have demonstrated that AI can analyze routine pathology slides to classify meningiomas and predict tumor recurrence risk.

Their study, published in The Lancet Digital Health, may guide follow-up decisions and expand access to personalized patient care.

Rochester River Rides opened for summer this past weekend near Coronas Tacos on North Broadway and now offers tube floats along the Zumbro River for a 3.5-mile trip at $30 per tube; rentals are available Thursday through Sunday on a first-come, first-served basis — sign-up requires a waiver.

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.

Carden Spectacular Circus

5:00 – 6:30 PM — Graham Arena Complex — Tickets start at $57 — Experience an unforgettable circus event in Rochester.