Top Stories
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Nicole Neri / Minnesota Reformer
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.
Malachy Koons
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KAXE
Music
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
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.
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.
Bright Spot: Arts advocate highlights barn dance and arts on the Range
Megan Reynolds shares details about the next Iron Range Barn Dance, Feb. 14, 2026, at Bovey City Hall. She also discusses upcoming theater shows across the Range.
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.
Dragon's teeth lurk in parking lot snow drifts
During the Phenology Report for the week of Feb. 10, 2026, Staff Phenologist John Latimer remarks on 'dragon's teeth,' pussywillows and Bald Eagles returning to nests.
Nominate a 2026 Volunteer of the Year for United Way of 1000 Lakes
The Volunteer of the Year will be honored during United Way’s Community Celebration on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at Timberlake Lodge in Grand Rapids.
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.
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