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Emma Krab/KAXEResidents around Calumet received a peek behind the curtain Aug. 21, 2026, at the iron reclamation project set to transform the former Annex Hill Mine. -
Contributed/Daniel DewaldCisco and other cold water fish died by the thousands in the large, shallow lake as water temperatures soared to an average of 77 degrees in late July and early August 2026. -
Canva illustrationOne of the occupants of the pickup truck was in custody in Itasca County Jail on Aug. 24, 2026, on suspicion of criminal vehicular operation. -
Lorie Shaull/KAXEThe campfire ban across the Superior National Forest was lifted Aug. 24, 2026, as cooler temperatures reduce wildfire risk. Parts of the Boundary Waters remain closed due to wildfires. -
Contributed/State Sen. Rob KupecSix Minnesota counties will receive state assistance to repair public infrastructure damaged by severe summer storms. -
A new state aid covers part of the operating levy for school districts that have lots of cabins. Some districts say they'll offset the levy if voters approve it, meaning more money for the school, while taxes stay the same or go down. -
Plus: Bemidji is closer to being the next home of a YMCA after a ceremonial groundbreaking; and local governments receive assistance to replace emerald ash borer-damaged trees.
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Lorie Shaull/KAXENeighbors converge for fair fun: showing or judging livestock, enjoying classic or new foods on offer, admiring prize-winning artwork or baked goods or simply gathering in community. -
Canva illustrationThe driver of the semitruck is in custody as of Aug. 21, 2026, and is facing two felony counts of criminal vehicular homicide. -
Plus: Changes to 'roadless rule' could open areas of Superior National Forest to logging; and researchers consider climate change's impacts on pathogen spread.
Megan Buffington covers North-Central Minnesota from the Brainerd lakes area. Originally from Pequot Lakes, she joined the KAXE newsroom in 2024. Megan previously covered the Arrowhead for KAXE. She is passionate about amplifying Northern Minnesota voices and educating communities through local reporting.
