Good morning, Rochester.

A new study ranked 50 states using 21 key metrics and named Minnesota the best state for community connection (results by SmileHub).

The study also found Minnesota tied for third in volunteer rate and ranked fourth for community service workers per capita (community data).

The Landing MN is hosting Give to the Max Day on Thursday—donations will be matched dollar for dollar up to $12,000 to help support meals, supplies, and services for homeless adults.

Contributions will be accepted until November 20 at midnight, offering a direct boost to vital community care.

Local star Cori Kennedy from West Concord was eliminated from NBC's The Voice knockout round Monday night and thanked fans for their overwhelming support — she urged viewers to congratulate her partner Aaron Nichols and promised to share more about her journey later.

The Rochester Rainbow Choir announced its Flying Colors tour will begin in early 2026 — seven free concerts will take place in Rochester and nearby communities.

The tour will include shows on January 17 at Peace United Church of Christ, February 1 at the Historic Chateau Theatre, February 22 at Mount Olive Lutheran Church, March 22 at the State Theatre, March 29 at Rochester Art Center, April 12 at 125 Live, and April 19 at Copperfield Terrace.

AAA predicts nearly 82 million people will travel 50 miles or more from home during Thanksgiving from Nov.

25 to Dec. 1, with over 6.5 million expected from our region. The agency says drivers in Minnesota will see gas prices around $2.94 per gallon — a sign of record holiday travel.

Hunters are asked by the DNR to submit CWD samples from their deer in 32 counties—this step aims to slow the spread of the fatal brain disease that affects deer.

The DNR will notify hunters if any harvested deer test positive.

The Rochester City Council held a public hearing on Monday, Nov.

17 at 6 p.m. to consider making Central Park a Historic Landmark District that would protect its historic character and community use from 1856 to 1945.

A change passed in the last legislative session will end the shotgun-only deer hunting zones starting in 2026, meaning hunters can use legal rifles or shotguns statewide (unless a county restricts rifles by ordinance).

This move is expected to boost hunting success and may help lower deer densities to slow the spread of Chronic Wasting Disease.

UCare will shut down in 2026 as Medica takes over its Medicaid and Individual and Family Plans—customers enrolled in 2025 will still get their services without interruption.

The deal is subject to state regulatory approval and is expected to close by Q1.

Rochester native Eric Butorac—a former Top-20 doubles pro—was named the next Tournament Director of the US Open by the USTA on Monday; he will succeed Stacey Allaster who will serve as a strategic advisor after her role as USTA Chief Executive, Professional Tennis ended.

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.

Wee Wednesday - My Wee Christmas Tree

9:30-10:30 a.m. — Sargent's on 2nd — $15 class fee — Decorate a “wee” Christmas tree while enjoying a festive reading and treats.