Good morning, Rochester.

RFD will host a memorial ceremony on Dec.

24 at Silver Lake Firefighters Memorial to honor firefighters Ambrose Riley and Stanley O’Brien (who died in 1953) after unsuccessfully trying to save a 9-year-old drowning in icy water. Department members will share remarks during the bell ceremony.

Mayo Clinic launched a contest for naming the 13 tower cranes set to rise over its campus amid ongoing expansion.

Submissions remain open through Jan. 30 and winning names will be announced in spring—adding a creative twist to the project.

American Legion Post #92 is hosting a Stewartville Strong Fundraiser from Friday evening through late Sunday afternoon to support families affected by a recent tragedy near Stewartville High School — the event will feature a burger basket deal, cash donations, and a silent auction on Saturday.

Dave’s Hot Chicken has been named Yelp’s Most Loved Brand for 2025 in Rochester after earning a 4.8 star rating from over 1,100 reviews.

The local spot beats national favorites (from Olive Garden to Trader Joe’s) with generous portions, fast service and customizable spice levels.

A historic bur oak believed to be over 200 years old was removed Friday off 10th Ave SW in Pill Hill after a root rot pathogen made it unsafe near a home, so arborists used cranes to cut it into manageable pieces.

Rochester Public Works is urging property owners to clear icy sidewalks and is offering a free salt and sand mix to manage freeze/thaw cycles — residents can pick up the mix behind Fiesta Café at Northbrook Shopping Center or next to First and Banks Apartments.

Gavin Black, a former hockey player, suffered a severe head injury during a game in Poland on Dec.

13 and is in a hospital. His parents arrived overseas (with Mayo Clinic advice) as international teams offered support amid rising travel and medical expenses.

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.