This special presentation for our senior community (55+), will uncover the life and legacy of a local trailblazer. Join us as we explore the story of Amelia Witherstine, the first woman elected to public office in Rochester, Minnesota. The event features guest speaker and local author Virginia Wright-Peterson, who will provide an insightful look into Witherstine’s journey and her impact on our community’s history.

Please register in advance for this free event with the buy tickets link. Suggested $5 free-will donation at the program.

Thanks to Caps Kitchen and Baths for sponsoring our senior programming.

Are you ready to be inspired? Join us for our upcoming lecture, presented by Chris Boes, M.D. At Mayo, learning isn't just something we do early in careers—it is a lifelong pursuit fueled by curiosity, collaboration, and a relentless commitment to patients. Whether you are a student, a seasoned professional, or simply someone who believes in the power of growth, this session will dive deep into how a culture of continuous learning shapes the future of medicine. Come discover why the pursuit of knowledge never truly ends. We can't wait to see you there!

$5 for non-members. FREE for HCOC members.

Have you ever been at the state fair, wandered into the Horticulture building and are astounded at the line of people waiting to view this year's crop of Crop Art from around the state?   

The Minnesota State Fair Crop Art competition officially began in 1965, where Minnesotans used local seeds, stems and plant parts to make pictures on boards, a true folk art, its original purpose was to help people learn to tell different farm crops apart.  It's now one of the most beloved parts of the Minnesota State Fair. 

Did you know that not one of the finalists in the 2025 competition was from Olmsted County?   

We are ready to change this in 2027! 

Local artist Molly Althoff is teaming up with the History Center on September 16th from 5:30-8 p.m. to help you make your very own piece of crop art.  You get instruction from a local artist on creating one of two designs or come prepared with your own design to create, select from The Corn Tower, a styled “Ope” or BYOD: bring your own design. 

You’ll learn about the history of crop art, state fair guidelines and how crop art has become a thriving folk art in Minnesota, and all of the supplies needed to create your own piece to take home. 

• Advance registration is required and will close on 9/14/26. 
• Spots are limited to 40.  
• Please select your preferred design when registering. 
• This class is for ages 16 and up, teens age 12-15 can attend if an adult attends with them (2 tickets required). 
•  $3 processing fee for any cancellations/refunds until 9/1/26. No refunds after 9/1/26. 
  
  $45 for non-members. $40 for HCOC members.

Chicago-born and raised, Ashanté Gills is an author, community advocate, veteran, and emerging social worker whose work sits at the intersection of child welfare, mental health, and community care. She lives here in the community and serves as Chair of the Health and Wellness Committee for NAACP and is the current President-elect of NAMI Southeast Minnesota, where she creates spaces for conversation, connection, and support.

From teaching yoga and leading emotional literacy workshops to hosting annual etiquette classes for youth, Ashanté uses everyday moments to build confidence, self-awareness, and community. Her work is guided by one belief: villages aren’t just for children; adults need them too.

In her memoir, School Daze, Ashanté reflects on growing up in Chicago and what it meant to balance education with survival. Through this lecture, she will share how those experiences shaped her path into social work and child welfare, offering a deeper look at how grief, poverty, and instability often show up in childhood, and why understanding the story behind behavior matters.

You will not want to miss out on this amazing presentation! 

$5 for non-members. FREE for HCOC members.

Join us at our Historic George Stoppel Barn for a special storytime with the Rochester Public Library, then explore the newly restored barn and step back in time to discover what farm life was like in days gone by.

10:30 AM - 11:30 AM (free event)

Save the date for September 26th for an unforgettable evening at the beautiful, 1920s-themed The Social at the Avalon as we gather to celebrate our 100th anniversary! This semi-formal fundraiser invites guests to step back in time—with 1920s attire warmly encouraged—and enjoy live music from the D’Sievers jazz band alongside a cash bar.

Standard tickets are $100 in honor of our centennial and include complimentary appetizers along with automatic entry into our prize drawing of amazing gifts!  Select VIP ticket packages featuring on-site parking are also available by phone. Tickets will be limited, watch for more information so you can join us in celebrating our 100 years!