Good morning, Rochester.

Francisco’s Restaurant on 2nd Street SW — as announced on its Facebook page — is accepting donations to support food, shelter and aid for families in Jamaica affected by Hurricane Melissa.

The restaurant has also set up a GoFundMe page to boost the relief efforts.

On Tuesday, the Salvation Army posted a call for food that went viral and reached over 160,000 people, leading many to donate items to refill its nearly empty shelf for Friday’s reopening.

On Wednesday morning, staff said donations ranged from canned soups to pasta sauces—helping downtown residents who rely on the food shelf.

SNAP funding may end on November 1 if the government fails to pass a budget, which risks leaving many families without help to buy groceries.

Neighbors are urged to donate money—food shelves prefer cash donations—and volunteer or invite those in need to share a meal.

Mario Gonzalez Martinez, manager at Apache Drive McDonald’s, was celebrated Wednesday for winning the Ray Kroc Award—an honor for the top 1% of managers globally.

He has led his branch for 14 years and will travel to the McDonald’s convention in 2026 to share his expertise.

Historical records show that Rochester recorded its earliest measurable snowfall on September 26 (1942) when 0.2 to 0.3 inches fell, as reported by the National Weather Service.

Other notable events include a slight flurry in October 2022 and nearly 18 inches in May, with measurable snowfall usually arriving on November 4.

Rochester will enforce winter alternate side parking starting November 1 until April 1 from 2 am to 3 pm - cars must park on the side with matching even or odd numbers to avoid fines.

Other Minnesota cities will also adopt similar rules on fixed dates or after snowfall, so residents should check local regulations.

Head Start — a vital program that supports low-income children and families with childcare, learning experiences, meals and health screenings — is at risk of losing federal funding on November 1 amid a government shutdown; program representatives say funding will resume once the shutdown ends.

A Mayo Clinic study of nearly 5,000 women aged 45-60 found that over 75% experienced menopause symptoms that affected daily life while more than 80% did not seek treatment—indicating a significant gap in care.

Researchers urge improved awareness and note that Mayo Clinic is developing tools to help women discuss these symptoms with their providers.

Local guides list five scenic trails in Rochester — Quarry Hill, Root River Park, Douglas State Trail, Cascade Lake Park, and Northern Heights Trail—for visitors to enjoy walks that feature historic sites, lake views, and natural beauty.

The trails serve as simple options for exercise and relaxation.

A new guide offers 7 non-candy treats for Halloween — listing items like markers, crayons, play-doh, bubbles, chalk, and glow sticks to help families skip the sugar overload.

The list gives Minnesota households creative options to make trick-or-treating fun and healthier.

The International Ice Hockey Federation announced that Rochester will host two exhibition games at the updated Rochester Rec Center ahead of the 2025 World Juniors Tournament—Team Switzerland is set to play Denmark on Dec.

21 and Sweden on Dec. 23 at 7 p.m., with tickets now on sale.

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.

Here Comes Santa Claus

2:30-7 p.m. — Historic Chateau Theatre — Free entry — Celebrate the holiday season with festive activities, Santa's rescue, and tree lighting.