Daily
Rochester
Friday, August 22nd, 2025
Good morning, Rochester. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 22nd of August.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Due to repeated vandalism that turned donation bins into dumping grounds, the Disabled American Veterans Southeast Chapter 28 has removed its clothing donation bins in Rochester and plans to start scheduled donation events with a semi-truck on Saturdays if its board approves. Commander Kati Carpenter said volunteers cleaned up the bins themselves—raising concerns that the new plan may lower the current annual donation of about $100,000. KTTC
CRIME NEWS
- ➤ Former state trooper Shane Roper's defense team is working to move his trial out of Olmsted County by asking the judge to delay his motion hearing on August 27 until October— the team is preparing a public opinion survey report for the court and state prosecutors. KTTC
- ➤ Rochester Police are seeking information to locate 49-year-old Jesse Ross (5'10, 165 pounds, brown hair and green eyes) who was last seen on August 20 near Fargo and frequently rides buses; anyone with details is urged to call 507-328-6800 or dial 911. KIMT
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources acquired 257 acres in Fillmore County in 2024 through the Trust for Public Land to expand the state forest—this new land connects existing public spaces for outdoor use. KTTC
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ The Rochester-Olmsted Council of Governments shared its FY 2026 to 2029 Transportation Improvement Plan at an open house on Thursday—this plan lists over 40 projects including interchange upgrades, a park and ride, 22 new buses, new pavement, and a bike trail idea from a local rider. The draft will be finalized on September 24 and then given to the city, county, and MnDOT to decide on project details. KTTC
- ➤ KTTC reported that Rochester police tracked citations for school bus violations during recent back-to-school months and found the numbers remain low, even as school buses prepare to shuttle students soon — drivers must stop when buses show their extended stop arms and flashing red lights. KTTC
- ➤ Rochester City Administrator Alison Zelms will present on Monday the proposed operating budget for 2026-2027 at $663.85 million—a $56 million reduction from last year—that includes a 5.9% levy increase for essential services. The council will set the maximum tax levy in September and adopt the final budget in December. KTTC
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Tea Cup Candle Making Class
1-3 p.m. — Art Heads Emporium — Supplies included — Create beautiful candles with dried florals in a charming atmosphere.
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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.
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Pressed Florals Class
6-8 p.m. — Art Heads Emporium — Cost varies — Create stunning floral collages with a variety of pressed flowers and frames.
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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.
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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.
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The Parsonage Discussion
7 p.m. — History Center of Olmsted County — $5 for non-members, Free for members — Delve into the history of The Parsonage and its impact on the community's growth and preservation efforts.
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Mike Oregano Live
7-10 p.m. — Forager Brewery — Check venue for entry cost — Experience the unique sounds of a Jazz/Rock one-man band act.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
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No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
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