Good morning, Rochester.

Rochester has been ranked 138th among America’s best places to live in U.S. News & World Report’s 2026-2027 list, thanks in part to a strong job market and Mayo Clinic’s renowned healthcare (the list covers 250 cities nationwide).

Eight Minnesota cities made the cut overall.

The City of Rochester announced the rescheduled fireworks show at Soldiers Field Memorial Park on Sept.

4 with a $10K boost from J&M Displays Inc.—raising the event’s value above $48K—and will postpone to Sept. 5 if weather is bad. They plan to share more details soon.

A house fire on the 3000 block of Sherburn Pl SW significantly damaged a home after flames spread from an attached garage to the roof; firefighters brought the blaze under control shortly after 7:30 p.m. Wednesday and found no injuries.

United Way of Southeast Minnesota has launched a Running Start for School program and is accepting online donations to supply backpacks and school supplies for over 4,000 students for the school year 2026 to 2027.

Volunteers will pack and deliver donated kits to local schools.

RPU is reviewing options like deeper aquifers and surface water sources because Rochester is expected to reach its groundwater limit within the next five years.

The full Water System Master Plan will be finished in Oct so city leaders can decide on future upgrades.

City officials propose to modify Silver Lake Dam with engineered rock arch rapids and added trails to boost recreation and ecological health (state funding is in place and only one state permit remains) while some residents say the change may compromise the park's historic character.

The third annual Lance Pfrimmer Memorial Run will take place on Aug.

15 at Eagles Aerie #2228; the event features an 8K run and a 1 mile walk that will raise funds for a memorial scholarship supporting local student athletes (last year it raised $30,754).

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.