Good morning, Rochester.

Radio stations and local businesses have partnered for Southeast Minnesota’s Holiday Toy Drive, inviting residents to donate a new, unwrapped toy to help local families this holiday season—donation events run from November 17th to December 6th at sites including Sports Headquarters, Menards, and Fleet Farm—and last year’s drive brightened Christmas for 8,594 children.

More than 13 percent of Minnesotans have worked at McDonald’s, an iconic chain noted for giving many their first job, as a recent survey shows.

The company runs over 13,000 restaurants nationwide — including about 226 in our state — and remains a key employer for many local workers.

Rochester Dance Company will host its annual Sugar Plum Fairy Tea Parties on November 23 at the historic Chateau Theatre with sessions at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Attendees will enjoy a mini Nutcracker performance, sweet treats and holiday drinks while tickets cost $20 plus fees with VIP tables available for $175 plus fees.

The City of Rochester has reached a milestone this year with building permits valued at over $1 billion by the end of October—permits for commercial projects, home construction, and repairs have contributed to this total while new housing starts have been around 400, well below the usual 800. This development marks a strong trend in the city's construction activity as diverse projects continue to drive investment.

A new report by Hansford Law shows that among Minnesota’s job sectors, agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting is the most dangerous with 28.7 fatal injuries per 100,000 workers — far above rates in manufacturing, professional services, construction and transportation utilities. The study used federal data to rank these sectors and challenges assumptions about job safety in the state.

KTTC warned that after record highs reached 69 on Friday and mild conditions today, Rochester will face a rapid drop in temperatures from the 40s to near freezing by late November—this sudden stratospheric warming, driven by a Negative Arctic Oscillation, may weaken the polar vortex and lead to below average conditions with near normal precipitation. Residents should monitor updated First Alert reports as this sharp change in weather unfolds.

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.

Work of eARTh Teen Art Club

1-4 p.m. — Rochester Art Center — Free entry — A collective of teen artists focused on sustainability and community action through creativity.

Red Hat Enterprise Linux Systems Administration II Training

Mon, Dec 8 – Thu, Dec 11 — Huntington Learning Center Rochester — $1890 — Enhance your Linux skills with hands-on training in Rochester, MN.

Mozart After Hours

5:30-9 p.m. — Historic Chateau Theatre — Free entry — Experience a delightful evening of chamber music featuring masterpieces and a world premiere in a charming setting.

The Nutcracker by World Ballet Company

3:00 – 8:30 p.m. — Mayo Civic Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience a magical holiday adventure in a heartwarming ballet filled with enchanting moments and delightful characters.

Travis Anderson Trio - Christmas Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — Mayo Civic Center — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy classic holiday tunes with a modern jazz twist from the acclaimed Travis Anderson Trio.

Rocky Mountain High Experience: A John Denver Christmas

7:30-9 p.m. — Mayo Civic Center — Tickets available — Experience the timeless music of John Denver performed live this holiday season.