Good morning, Rochester.

Two local farms offer fall produce shares through community supported agriculture memberships.

Earth Dance Farm (Spring Valley) will deliver five rounds from the end of October to mid-December for $275, and Featherstone Farm will launch its winter share in October for $410 with enrollment beginning in August.

Dr. Walé Elegbede, president of the Rochester Branch of the NAACP, was presented Viterbo University’s 2026 Spirit of St. Francis Award today (the highest alumni honor given for exemplary service and leadership in the community).

The Silver Lake Splash Pad is temporarily closed for repairs due to a needed replacement part, and the city has ordered one; while it is closed, residents can visit splash pads at Lincolnshire Park (free) and Soldiers Field Aquatic Center.

A new study finds that the Toyota Sequoia (with a 39.1 percent chance of reaching 250,000 miles) is the most dependable vehicle for Minnesota drivers, and the survey of nearly 400 million vehicles shows the state ranks sixth nationally in long-lasting cars.

Lafin Comedy is hosting a series of events in Southeastern Minnesota, including comedy shows, open mics, and a golf-themed event that supports mental health in Rochester, Lansing & beyond.

Details on dates and venues will be announced soon.

Rochester Public Schools outlined a nearly $45M facilities plan on Jul.

22 to upgrade and modernize school buildings. The plan (which includes safety improvements and energy efficiency upgrades) will guide renovations over the coming years.

The beach at Chester Woods Park closed temporarily on Wednesday after water tests showed poor quality, and officials expect lab results today to confirm when it will reopen while watercraft rentals remain available.

Rochester mayoral candidates will take the plunge at The Landing MN fundraiser soon (details pending) to raise support for local initiatives in our community.

A study by iSelect shows Minnesota ranks 9th for childbirth costs with an average fee of $21,437 and no mandate for paid maternity leave, while over 60,000 babies were born statewide in 2025.

With summer nearly over, locals can check off a Rochester bucket list that features free events (such as FORWARD Concerts in August, Thursdays Downtown gatherings, boat rentals at Silver Lake, tubing on the Zumbro, and a final-season Honkers baseball game) to make the most of the warm days.

Rochester Skidox will travel to Iowa to defend its Division 2 title at an upcoming tournament later this season.

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.

Blackberry Smoke's 25th Anniversary Tour

7-10:30 p.m. — Mayo Civic Center — Ticket prices vary — Celebrate with Blackberry Smoke as they showcase new music and classic hits during their anniversary tour.

Theory of a Deadman Concert

6:00 – 8:30 PM — Mayo Civic Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience high-energy performances as Theory of a Deadman and Sevendust rock the stage with special guest Return to Dust.