Top Stories
Chelsey Perkins
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KAXE
Crow Wing County's Eric Klang said agents worked out of the sheriff's office while temporarily stationed in the lakes area, asking him for guidance on "what's off limits."
Larissa Donovan
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KAXE
Andrew Dziengel
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KAXE
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
Longville community mourns death of local official; Hibbing, union work out labor dispute
Plus: Community members show up to Nevis council in support of Wild Tiger Skate Park; House 2A Rep. Bidal Duran announces reelection plans; and the latest for Northland winter athletes.
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.
Northern, MN, wins judge approval to be Northern MN's newest city
An administrative law judge ruled in favor of the township's petition to become a city while denying Bemidji's counterpetition to redraw its boundary around Lake Bemidji.
Deer River rejects 4-day week, setting up $2M budget cuts
The School Board voted down the alternative schedule 4-2. In the coming months, the district will have to figure out how else to cut 12% of its budget.
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.
State Rep. Bidal Duran announces reelection campaign plans
Duran, a Republican from Bemidji, was first elected to the Minnesota Legislature in 2024.
Bright Spot: Arts advocate highlights barn dance and arts on the Range
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.
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.
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.
Contributed
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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.
Contributed
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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.
KAXE/KBXE is the oldest rural community radio station in the U.S. and an independent NPR affiliate.
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