1976 was a big year: The United States celebrated its bicentennial, the Montreal Canadiens won the Stanley Cup, The Muppet Show premiered on ABC, and Fiona Apple was born.
... And on April 23, 1976, KAXE went live.
Five decades and counting is not bad for a station whose audience was estimated to be only several counties’ "gopher colonies." For KAXE’s 50th year, we’re delving into our archives to bring you stories and voices from years past, while turning to you to be part of the future.
While a lot has changed in five decades, the important things are the same: KAXE is a bridge, a companion and a community. As people struggle to find common ground and connection, isn’t it pretty darn neat that this middle-aged radio station in Northern Minnesota offers all of that at the click of a button?
Can you help KAXE raise $50,000 during our spring member drive?
When all public media lost federal funding in 2025, KAXE / KBXE was overwhelmingly reminded why we're still here: YOU!
Without members, volunteers and a whole lot of resourcefulness, KAXE would be a memory. But here we are in 2026 with a thriving team of journalists, a lively morning show, diverse music offerings, sports coverage, a beloved trivia show and lots of plans for the future. Meanwhile, we’re still asking you what you ate for breakfast.
Federal funding, which made up about 12% of KAXE's budget, is not coming back. Members will continue to keep this relentlessly authentic and unlikely community radio on the air.
Membership donations are our largest single source of funding. That means members power all of the programs you rely on. We need you this week.
- Donate online
- Call 218-326-1234
- Text "Donate" to 218-326-1234
As always, we invite you to tune in, as we will have lots of amazing guests and volunteers on the air. And we want to hear from you, too! When did you first hear KAXE? Tell us how you found the station by texting your answer to 218-326-1234!
-
Their schedules are booked solid, and graduation is only a few weeks away, but seniors Maddy and Abby Koivisto are engaged in class every day and always willing to lend a hand. -
And: Minnesota-based nonprofit says Big Tech fight reminiscent of Big Tobacco crackdown; and National Weather Service offering free weather spotter classes.
-
Contributed/Bastian Riccardi via PexelsA Minnesota-based organization says concerned parents shouldn't settle for the status quo surrounding social media regulation. -
Kari Hedlund/KAXEThe KAXE Music Team puts a wrap on March music with songs from The Outfit, Courtney Barnett, Kelsey Lu, Cat Clyde, Son Little and a double whammy from Irreversible Entanglements. -
Contributed/Camp ChristopherCamp Christopher in Cotton offers free camping for those impacted by suicide or mental health issues. -
Events this week include a poetry and printmaking program at Arrowhead libraries, Bemidji Chorale concerts and a "Brain Train" event in Cohasset. -
Contributed/Shep's ApparelAshkan Thibodeaux, 5, rescued his younger brother from an icy creek but couldn't pull himself out. He was flown to a Twin Cities hospital, where he remains. -
Contributed/USFWS Midwest Region via FlickrThe fires will help reduce overgrown vegetation and protect local communities from wildfires. -
Contributed/Central Lakes CollegeHara Charlier accepted another position to be closer to family. An interim president will be appointed in May, and a national search for the next president will begin in the fall. -
And: Central Lakes College President Hara Charlier is leaving the school; and a new report is concerned with the DNR's plans for electronic licenses this spring.
