Good morning, Rochester.

Rochester-based United Way of Southeast Minnesota hit $1 million in its Workplace Giving Campaign after over 2,000 locals donated between $1 and $10,000.

The organization will aim to double the funds to $2 million by year's end to support families with groceries, safe spaces & transportation.

Rochester will get new mobile saunas when local company Sauna Life opens sessions on December 16 at Soldiers Field through March 2026, and Tuesday reservations will start with additional days added as needed (offering health benefits).

Experience Rochester and Mayo Civic Center are hosting the 'Give What You Can' food drive to support Community Food Response; please drop off non-perishable food and essentials at the Mayo Guest Relations Desk (skyway level, 2nd floor) Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. today through Dec. 16.

Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo are set to receive $2 million and Gamehaven Regional Park nearly $580K in state funding to boost recreation.

The upgrade funds, granted by the Greater Minnesota Regional Parks and Trails Commission, will support improvements (like a new mountain biking skills area) in Olmsted County.

The Landing MN offers homeless residents refuge from subzero weather today by providing warm showers, coats, hats, and boots from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. – local shelters at Catholic Charities and the Salvation Army offer overnight beds; call 9-1-1 if you notice anyone outdoors.

Rochester Public Schools Superintendent Kent Pekel issued a statement yesterday supporting the Somali community in response to recent immigration sweeps in the Twin Cities (emphasizing the district’s commitment to its diverse students and families).

Today, Mayor Kim Norton awarded 15 local citizens with the Mayor's Medal of Honor—recognizing achievements in heroism, education, art, and community service at a luncheon that marked the 42nd annual ceremony started in the 1980s.

The Rochester City Council will vote on a ($52M) contract for a new regional sports complex next Monday.

Construction is set to begin next April in southeast Rochester with completion targeted for spring 2028.

Health officials reported high arsenic & manganese levels in Mower County well water from 122 tests over the past year, with 75 samples above arsenic limits and 34 exceeding safe manganese levels; 12 households have qualified for state assistance to install reverse osmosis systems.

Paul Bunyan Plumbing and Drains warns Rochester homeowners this winter to leave taps dripping and insulate exposed pipes to avoid costly water damage.

The company recommends emptying exterior spigots or installing frost covers (and keeping heaters on near pump houses) for added protection.

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.

WFPB Holiday Potluck

6-8 p.m. — 1800 High Pointe Ln NW, Rochester, MN — Cost info not listed — Celebrate the holidays with delicious whole food plant-based dishes and community connections.

World Juniors Hockey Pre-Tournament Series

7-10 p.m. — Rochester Recreation Center — Cost info not provided — Witness young hockey talents battle it out in exhibition games featuring Denmark, Switzerland, and Sweden.

New Year's Eve Celebration

5:30-7:30 p.m. & 8:00-10:00 p.m. — Bleu Duck Kitchen & Oyster Bar — $125 per person — Celebrate the arrival of 2026 with an elegant four-course dining experience.