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Iron Range Barn Dances
Megan Reynolds shared details about the next Iron Range Barn Dance, Feb. 14, 2026, at Bovey City Hall. She also discussed upcoming theater shows across the Range.
In addition to her music, Queen Esther is a well-known playwright, actor and essayist, and her skill for storytelling that ties history to the present day is on full display on her sixth solo album Blackbirding. Seamlessly blending country, jazz and blues in a style she calls Black country soul, Blackbirding explores the Civil War battle at Gettysburg to tell a story of the fight for freedom that continues to this day. -MK
Latest Stories
Beltrami County authorities seek missing 31-year-old man
Corey Adam Bryant was last seen in Bemidji on Dec. 19, 2025, but was last in touch with family in January 2026.
Events Up North Feb. 16-22: BRRRmidji Days, 'Tin Woodsman of Oz'
Events this week include a pancake fundraiser and curling watch parties in Grand Rapids, "MusiKaravan" in Hibbing, Bemidji Contra Dance and a symphony orchestra concert in Virginia.
Border Czar Homan announces end to Operation Metro Surge; Deer River votes down 4-day school week
Plus: Northern, MN to become Northern MN's newest city; and 14 Northland athletes competed in the Alpine Ski state tournament Feb. 10, 2026.
Walz proposes $10 million for Minnesota businesses affected by ICE surge
Minneapolis businesses are estimated to have lost $10 to $20 million in sales each week of Operation Metro Surge, which began in December 2025.
Alpine: Brainerd's Grillo 3rd, DL's Bristlin 5th at state
Three rural Northern Minnesotans placed at the state alpine ski meet in Biwabik on Feb. 10, 2026.
The Setlist: Where to hear live music Feb. 14, 2026
KAXE's weekly list of concerts near you features Sam Miltich & The Clearwater Hot Club, In Stereo, Sugar on the Roof and Grand Holler.
Area Voices: Andrew Dziengel makes a road trip to The Crossing Arts Alliance
“Area Voices” hits the road to visit The Crossing Arts Alliance's 8x8 Art Auction and Fundraiser in Brainerd. Andrew Dziengel talked with the Executive Director Jennifer Jacquot-DeVries and participating artists.
State Rep. Bidal Duran announces reelection campaign plans
Duran, a Republican from Bemidji, was first elected to the Minnesota Legislature in 2024.
Border Czar Tom Homan announces end to Operation Metro Surge, claiming success
The unprecedented federal incursion brought 1000s of immigration officers to MN over the objections of local Democratic leaders, and led to massive protests and two deaths.
I spy with my little eye: The joy of staking out nature's neighbors
In this episode, co-hosts Charlie Mitchell and Heidi Holtan wonder at dragon's teeth, discuss the pronunciation of 'coyote,' and delight in the tiny Saw-whet Owl.Send us a voice memo through Speak Pipe!
MN's constitutional stress test; Baxter's Hwy 371 overpass moves forward
Plus: St. Louis County seeks resident input on updates to its hazard mitigation plan; and United Way of 1000 Lakes is accepting Volunteer of the Year nominations.
February brings the scent of skunks
During the week of Feb. 10, 2026, we enjoy reports of waddling skunks, warmer weather and hibernating woodchucks. Staff phenologist John Latimer responds.
When our neighbors are in need of food, organizations and volunteers across Northern Minnesota step up. Food shelves, community meals and soup kitchens aim to the fill the gaps.
With The Setlist, KAXE's Music Team curates the best live music to catch each week across Northern Minnesota and beyond.
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iNaturalist user csledge (Chantel)
During the week of Feb. 3, 2026, we enjoy a students' approximation of Bald Eagles smooching and reports of deep cold. Staff phenologist John Latimer responds.
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Bonnie Lundorff via the KAXE - KBXE Season Watch Facebook group
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KAXE/KBXE is the oldest rural community radio station in the U.S. and an independent NPR affiliate.
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