Good morning, Rochester.

A new guide lists 4th of July fireworks displays and related festivities set for July 4 across Minnesota, including live music, food vendors, and parades (with options for local celebration in and around Rochester).

A WalletHub study found Minnesota families spend 6.3% to 12.09% of dual incomes and 19.93% to 38.27% of single incomes on child care, plus Wisconsin ranks among the most expensive states.

The findings show Minnesota is near the middle for child care costs.

A new jobs report shows Olmsted County’s unemployment reached 3.4% in May—the highest rate for that month since 2020 and up by three-tenths from April and four-tenths from May last year.

Three local electric cooperatives have issued a peak energy alert today from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., urging members to adjust air conditioner settings, postpone charging electric vehicles, and delay high-energy tasks to ease strain on the regional grid.

The Minnesota State Patrol’s maroon and white cruiser is competing in the 2026 Best Looking Police Cruiser Contest hosted by the American Association of State Troopers.

Voting began Monday, June 29 and will run until Monday, July 13 at 12:00 p.m. (EST).

The Minnesota Board of Animal Health announced new import restrictions on dogs and cats Tuesday to prevent New World Screwworm from entering after cases were reported in Texas and New Mexico.

Animals arriving from these areas must have a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection, a valid rabies certificate, and approved treatment, and they will be quarantined for five days if they meet the requirements or at least 10 days if not.

Local residents have shared their favorite spots for pedicures, including Lotus Nails Salon (3431 22nd Ave NW) and Rochester Nail Salon (90 14th Street SW), to help neighbors find trusted services as part of a regular grooming routine.

The list gathers recommendations from a popular local radio audience.

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.

Summer Sundays Pizza with Amateur

4-6 p.m. — Squash Blossom Farm — Pizza reservation required — Enjoy delicious wood-fired sourdough pizza paired with live music from Amateur.

42nd Annual Golf Tournament

10:30 a.m. — Rochester Golf & Country Club — Participation fee required — Enjoy a day of golf, a tropical theme, and support families in need.

Feast & Flamenco on the Farm

6-9 p.m. — Squash Blossom Farm — Check for ticket prices — Enjoy a captivating evening filled with sizzling Spanish cuisine and vibrant flamenco performances.

Hannah Harper Benefit for Oronoco Fire Department

2-6:30 p.m. — Mayo Civic Center — Ticket costs vary — Enjoy a night of inspiring music while supporting local firefighters and first responders.