Good morning, Rochester.

Channel One Regional Food Bank says local food banks and food shelves may face extra strain if the government shutdown continues, as Olmsted County relies on $1.7 million in SNAP funding to serve about 10,716 clients.

Cuts to emergency food aid have already halved supplies, which could lead to smaller portions and increased demand as November nears.

Families can enjoy Rochester's "Link or Treat" event on Tuesday from 5 to 7 p.m. along the future Link B-R-T corridor at 2nd Street SW (12th Avenue), where they can dress in costumes, trick-or-treat, and play spooky games while learning about the fare-free transit set to start summer. This community event offers a fun way to explore the new bus system that will connect key city destinations.

Margaret 'Peg' Lloyd—a volunteer with PossAbilities—earned the Unsung Hero Award from Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union at the annual Plus It Forward event, honoring her work in supporting people with disabilities by starting a cooking club, designing aprons, updating a kitchen, and sponsoring educational speakers. Her efforts continue to make a strong impact in the community.

Rochester’s oldest Dairy Queen on North Broadway will close for the season at the end of October as it wraps up its 2025 run.

The shop, which opened on June 20, 1947, has served locals for decades—its final days offer one last chance for a classic treat.

Rochester Parks & Recreation announced that the Essex Park bridge on West River Road Northwest will close at 7 a.m. Tuesday for resurfacing repairs to prevent storm damage — pedestrians and cyclists should use alternate routes as work is expected to continue until Friday depending on weather.

The Rochester City Council, acting as the Economic Development Authority, approved financial assistance for an affordable housing project in southeast Rochester where Developer Build Wealth MN, Inc. plans to build 50 single-family homes and other units with up to $20,000 in tax increment financing per home—construction will start next month and the homes are expected to be completed by November of 2027.

On Monday a five-mile stretch of Highway 63 between Racine and Highway 16 was dedicated as the Jason B.

Meyer Memorial Highway to honor the fallen Grand Meadow police officer who died in a single-vehicle crash while responding to a call on September 6. His family and colleagues attended the ceremony and brown signs now remind drivers of his sacrifice.

Mayo Clinic debuted its new facility dog Bueller at St. Marys Campus on Oct.20.

The 3-year-old black lab was trained with over 50 tricks to comfort patients at the Inpatient Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Unit—his team will host a meet and greet on Nov.11 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the Rochester Art Center.

A local guide highlights must-visit restaurants in Rochester that offer a mix of cuisines and price points for food lovers.

The list notes spots with unique features—like hidden speakeasies and hand-pulled noodles—to help diners choose where to eat.

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.

Vintage Flea Market & Toy Show

9 AM – 2 PM — Graham Park — Admission varies — Discover vintage treasures, toys, and holiday décor at this charming local market.

Rochester Female Entrepreneurs Networking Meet-Up

2:30-3:30 p.m. — Collider Foundation — Free entry — Connect with local female entrepreneurs in a supportive, structured networking environment.

National Philanthropy Day Celebration

8 a.m. – 3 p.m. — Empire Event Center — Registration Fee Required — Celebrate philanthropy in the community with workshops and awards honoring outstanding contributions.

The Princess Bride: An Inconceivable Evening with Cary Elwes

7:30-9 p.m. — Mayo Civic Center — VIP packages available — Discover behind-the-scenes tales from the beloved film with Cary Elwes, featuring a screening and exclusive stories.

RHCSA Exam Preparation Training

8 a.m. — Huntington Learning Center Rochester — $2250 — Get ready for the RHCSA certification with this intensive five-day training course focusing on essential Linux system administration skills.

Spanish Conversation Meeting

6:30-7:30 p.m. — Rochester Public Library — Free entry — Engage in lively Spanish conversation in a friendly library setting.