Good morning, Rochester.

In Rochester, Ronald McDonald House Southeastern Minnesota & Western Wisconsin announced a $1.5 million donation from the Harper Family Foundation to fund a new commercial kitchen under the More Than a Meal Campaign.

The new kitchen will expand capacity and improve daily meal service for families.

Reservations opened Thursday for the new Oxbow Park campground, giving locals a chance to book a spot at the facility designed for outdoor recreation and relaxation.

The Social Security Administration released Minnesota’s 2026 baby name rankings using Social Security data—Olivia tops the list for girls and Liam leads for boys.

Since fiscal year 2025, the Minnesota Office of Higher Education awarded $2.8 million in Student Parent Support Initiative grants to 24 colleges and community organizations including Rochester Community and Technical College.

The funds support student parents by paying for childcare, scholarships and emergency aid — helping families balance college and family life.

Southeast Minnesota schools will begin flu clinics for students from Olmstead, Dodge, and Goodhue counties Sept.

14, with sign-ups open until Sept. 9 + local health officials urge early registration to protect students from seasonal flu.

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.