Good morning, Rochester.

Kwik Trip announced on October 2nd that cash purchases in its over 900 stores will be rounded down to the nearest five cents—because pennies are being phased out—while digital and credit transactions stay the same.

The new rule comes as the government prepares to stop making new pennies.

Dave's Hot Chicken is set to expand to 30 new Minnesota locations as the Humphries family gains exclusive rights statewide— a new restaurant will open in the North Loop next month.

Additional planned sites include Mankato, Edina, Stillwater, Rogers, and Eden Prairie, adding to current stores in Rochester, Apple Valley, St. Paul, Minnetonka, and Coon Rapids.

Rochester shows its long history through old signs on walls, storefronts & street corners that trace its growth since incorporation in 1858.

Southeast Minnesota nature centers offer outdoor learning with exhibits, guided hikes, and displays of local wildlife for all ages.

Families can visit Quarry Hill Nature Center in Rochester or other centers like Houston and Jay C. Hormel for unique programs throughout the year—each one has programs and trails that encourage exploration.

Rochester City Council will vote Monday on a plan to move the historic clock tower from its current site at the northwest corner of South Broadway and 6th Street Southwest—upcoming road works including a new bridge require a change that will place the tower near Hazama Park.

The revised plan lets the city lead the project using $185,000 set aside for design, construction, and maintenance.

The 2nd Annual Pink Bag event will be held at Apache Mall on October 11th from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm — it will offer free yoga from 125 Live, giveaways, and a panel featuring local breast cancer survivors sharing their stories.

Local apple orchards have issued 10 commandments to guide visitors in picking fresh apples safely—these rules remind Minnesotans to respect orchard property and enjoy seasonal varieties like Honeycrisp and Haralson.

The guidelines aim to preserve the tradition and ensure a fun, orderly apple picking season.

OpenShift Fundamentals Training

Oct 6-8 — Huntington Learning Center Rochester — Check online for pricing — Dive into the essentials of OpenShift with hands-on Linux training for software development.

World Ballet Company - The Great Gatsby

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Mayo Civic Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience the glitz and glamor of the Roaring Twenties through a Broadway-style ballet adaptation of Fitzgerald’s classic.

Blippi: Join the Band Tour

2-3:30 p.m. — Mayo Civic Center — Ticket required for entry — Experience a lively music performance with Blippi, Meekah, and friends for the whole family.

Fall Ball Family Festival

2-6 p.m. — Camp Victory — $5 per person or $25 per family — Enjoy activities like pumpkin painting, mini ziplining, and apple cider at this family-friendly festival.

Girl Named Tom Concert

7-9:30 p.m. — Mayo Civic Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience the award-winning harmony of the sibling trio who captured hearts on The Voice.

Cans for Kids

8 AM – 12 PM — Ronald McDonald House Charities Midwest MN, WI, IA — Donations accepted — Bring aluminum cans for recycling to support children and families in need.

Rochester Hot Cider Hustle

Half Marathon, 10K, & 5K — — Rochester, Minnesota — — Participate in a festive race with sweet swag and hot cider at the finish.

Floral Shadow Box Workshop

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Art Heads Emporium — All materials included — Create your own floral arrangements in shadow boxes while enjoying time with friends.

Keller Williams Trunk Or Treat

9-11 p.m. — 2765 Commerce Dr NW, Rochester, MN — Free entry — Enjoy a safe and fun Trunk or Treat event with decorated trunks and candy for the whole family.

iLuminate: A Dazzling LED Dance Experience

7-8:30 p.m. — Mayo Civic Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience a mind-blowing fusion of music, dance, and technology in a unique, illuminated performance.