Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 18th of June.
Good morning, Rochester.
🎭 Culture
Minnesota’s new North Star flag is sealed inside America’s 250th time capsule, which will be buried in Philadelphia on July 4.
The flag replaced a controversial design from 2024 and remains a topic of ongoing discussion in local communities.
The 2026 Miss Minnesota pageant begins this week, with contestants set to compete in several rounds in Rochester.
Details of the event schedule will be shared with the community as they become available.
Rochester Rep Theatre is presenting Ride the Cyclone, a new play that offers a bold theatrical experience for local audiences.
Performance dates and ticket details will be released soon (updates will follow).
Rochester Community Band kicks off its free summer series with the '30 Years of Harmony' concert today at 7 p.m. at Canfield Amphitheater in Cascade Lake Park; further concerts are scheduled for July 4th, July 23rd, and Aug.
20th.
🎓 Education
The Rochester School Board approved a $483 million budget for the 2026-27 school year that includes $8.3 million in cuts eliminating 27 positions caused by declining enrollment and rising costs.
The board also withdrew $3 million from reserves and set the 2027-28 school calendar with an added Eid al-Adha holiday.
📰 Real Estate
A recent study shows that racial covenants—legal restrictions written into property deeds—contributed to a persistent homeownership gap for local Black families.
The report reveals how historic policies still shape housing opportunities.
🎉 Rochester Events
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Carden Spectacular Circus
5:00 – 6:30 PM — Graham Arena Complex — Tickets start at $57 — Experience an unforgettable circus event in Rochester.
Castle Con Preview: Game Day
9 a.m. – 9 p.m. — Historic Chateau Theatre — Free entry — Dive into a full day of board games, puzzles, and community fun with opportunities to learn and compete.
Heatwave Half Marathon - Rochester
Summer — Rochester, Minnesota — Registration required — Experience an exciting road race amidst the scenic beauty of Rochester.
Brewery Bingo Night
8-10 p.m. — Kinney Creek Brewery — Free entry — Enjoy a fun game of Brewery Bingo at a local hotspot in Rochester, MN.
🏠 Rochester Real Estate
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💼 Rochester Job Board
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📣 Rochester Announcements
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