Good morning, Rochester.

The Rochester Salvation Army is collecting winter outerwear at Hy-Vee stores to help people in need as colder weather approaches.

Donations are accepted from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. through Saturday—coats and other items will be given out on Oct.15 and Oct.16.

The Rochester Fire Department hosted open houses on October 6th and is holding events today and on October 9th from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at its five stations to teach residents about the fire risks of lithium-ion batteries — students from PreK to 8th grade had submitted artwork by October 3rd for display.

The United Way of Southeast Minnesota is urging federal employees to use its 2-1-1 hotline if they have trouble paying bills during a shutdown—this 24/7 service connects them to local rental, housing, and food assistance programs and offers a text option at 8-9-8-2-1-1.

The Landing MN is hosting a drive-up food donation event on October 11 from 9 a.m. to noon at Zumbro Lutheran Church—volunteers will collect donations such as cereal, beef sticks, and tuna pouches to help those experiencing food insecurity as winter approaches.

They also are accepting monetary contributions to support three daily meals provided at the day center.

Rochester pickleball players face safety concerns at Cook Park as the deteriorating courts prompt the Rochester Area Pickleball Association to ask Parks and Recreation for help.

The association has organized fundraisers — including raffles and a 50 percent membership dues increase — while the city will cover half of the project costs to replace the courts with concrete and improve walkways.

Motorists navigating a massive work zone near Rochester will see a traffic shift starting today as southbound Hwy.52 moves west into newly paved lanes and gains temporary access to eastbound I-90.

Construction crews will begin ramp work as part of the $27.5 million project set to finish next year.

A group of bystanders quickly gave CPR to a 75-year-old man found unconscious in a running car along Bandel Rd NW on Monday—nurse Tricia Sommers led the effort during her routine commute, though his condition remains unknown.

Sober October is a month-long challenge that encourages local participants to pause drinking for health benefits and to help raise funds for cancer research.

Participants at Doc's Recovery House report improved energy and clearer thinking, and local events like Haunted Hollow at Oxbow on October 25 will offer a chance to try new activities + reflect on healthier habits.

Olmsted Medical Center is offering appointment-free drive-thru flu shots at its northwest Rochester parking lot — with hours on Mondays and Wednesdays from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. — until October 23.

Winona Health is also providing free flu shots through Halloween with no appointment needed.

North Star Sports and Entertainment Network announced a partnership with Minnesota United FC to air replays of the Loons’ final regular season games—replaying the Kansas City match on October 8th and the LA Galaxy game on October 22nd over-the-air in Rochester and nearby areas.

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.

Kids Moonrise Paint Class

1-3 p.m. — Art Heads Emporium — All materials provided — Create a unique painting with customizable colors and stencils in this fun class for ages 6 and up.