Good morning, Rochester.

Rochester is hosting its fifth back-to-school block party today at Martin Luther King Park from noon to 4:30 p.m. Organizers will distribute over 500 backpacks, 200 pairs of shoes and hygiene supplies while food, games, free haircuts, a chalk art display and a performance by Vaso Major at 3 p.m.—all designed to help students start school strong.

The People’s Energy Cooperative board named Gwen Stevens as the new CEO, replacing Mike Henke who will serve until the end of 2025.

Stevens — a native of Rochester with over 20 years of experience — will lead the cooperative as it prepares for future initiatives.

Rochester added over 7,600 jobs in the past year and its job growth rate rose to 5.9% in July— the highest statewide according to state employment data; the increase was 1,500 jobs more than in June.

Rochester Public Schools launched a pilot program today to reduce chronic absenteeism using monthly text messages and the Freshman On-Track model—families will start receiving updates in October as the project, funded with $670,000 over three years, tackles increased absences after COVID-19.

Rochester Community and Technical College announced it will discontinue its bubble dome after the winter season — high setup and utility costs make its upkeep financially unsustainable.

Local leaders and softball organizers expressed surprise and will look for alternative indoor spaces for winter activities.

The City of Rochester will upgrade its six public parking ramps with contactless payment technology including Google Pay and Apple Pay starting August 18, and one lane will remain open in each ramp while work is limited to two ramps at a time—minimizing disruptions.

Argentine Tango Milonga

7:30-11 p.m. — Blue Moon Ballroom — $15 adults / $10 students + $5 lesson — Enjoy a tango lesson followed by a night of social dancing.

Nathan Graham Concert

5:30-8 p.m. — White Oaks Park — Free entry — Enjoy local music and food trucks in a welcoming park environment.

Memory Café in Rochester

2-3 p.m. — Zadeos Pizza — Voluntary contribution — A supportive gathering for those affected by dementia to share experiences and enjoy community activities.

Tea Cup Candle Making Class

1-3 p.m. — Art Heads Emporium — Supplies included — Create beautiful candles with dried florals in a charming atmosphere.

Space Monkey Mafia Concert

5-8 p.m. — Cook Park — Free entry — Enjoy a lively evening of local music and food trucks under the stars.

Pressed Florals Class

6-8 p.m. — Art Heads Emporium — Cost varies — Create stunning floral collages with a variety of pressed flowers and frames.

Create Your Own Ceramic Cup

2-4 p.m. — Art Heads Emporium — Registration required — Craft your own unique ceramic cup with expert guidance in a friendly downtown atmosphere.

Rochester Female Entrepreneurs Networking Meet-Up

2:30-3:30 p.m. — Collider Foundation — Free entry — Connect and grow your network with local women entrepreneurs in a supportive setting.