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Nicole Neri / Minnesota Reformer
Dozens of federal agents from ICE and the FBI, as well as Minneapolis police officers and Hennepin County sheriff’s deputies responded to the scene.
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Illustration by Christopher Larson / Photo by Liz Fish, Little Movie Company
"Season Watch" is a KAXE podcast for the curious, filled with the delights of nature in Northern Minnesota. Hosts are Charlie Mitchell, Heidi Holtan, John Latimer and a rotating cast of characters, often featuring voices of young nature observers from around the state. From owl calls to sleeping bears and freezing frogs, we want hear from you! Record a message and send us what you are seeing in nature!
Our picks (and yours!) for music, conversations, local news, books and more!
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.
Latest Stories
Hermantown data center prompts petition to reconsider Minnesota Power sale
Environmental organization CURE is asking the Public Utilities Commission to investigate the Minnesota Power sale further, given new information about data centers in the region.
Science teacher Chad Kaddatz on the 'special joy of recognizing something'
During the week of Jan. 6, 2026, we enjoyed an inspiring interview with our partnering phenology teacher at Little Falls Middle School, Chad Kaddatz.
Another nexus of fraud? Auditor zeros in on drug, mental health grants
Minnesota's Office of the Legislative Auditor has identified “continued and pervasive concerns” with grant-making practices at the Behavioral Health Administration.
'Entrepreneurs on Tap' returns for 3rd year of networking, learning
The event series offers education and connection for small business owners and entrepreneurs in the Brainerd lakes area, featuring rotating hosts and discussion topics.
Zupancich announces MN Senate campaign, setting up Hauschild rematch
The mayor of Babbitt — a Republican — lost to DFLer Sen. Grant Hauschild in Senate District 3 by 703 votes in 2022.
Walz critical of Trump, MN GOP while fielding questions on election change-of-heart
He was especially heated about Trump amplifying a conspiracy theory that the governor was involved in the assassination of former House Speaker Melissa Hortman and her husband.
Walz slams Trump, MN GOPers in news conference; Zupancich launches state senate campaign
Plus: Bridge to Health Survey seeks more Northland respondents to survey collecting anonymous health information; and local hospitals list top baby names of 2025.
Walz ends reelection campaign; GOP state Rep. Bennett enters governor race
And: Former Iron Range teacher sentenced to 18 years for criminal sexual conduct; 8 Northern MN housing projects awarded state funds; and MN awarded $193 million in federal rural health dollars.
Former Iron Range teacher sentenced to 18 years for sex crimes against child
Former Mesabi East and Northeast Range teacher Ryan Ross Denzer-Johnson, 44, received the maximum sentence Jan. 5, 2026, after pleading guilty to assaulting an adolescent relative.
State awards funds to 8 Northern Minnesota housing projects
The state funding will help create or preserve housing in Hibbing, Mahnomen, Bemidji, Warren, Grand Rapids and other communities in the region.
Walz says he'll 'let others worry about the election' at press conference
As Gov. Tim Walz withdraws from the race, there's already speculation that U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar may launch a campaign as the DFL candidate for governor.
DNR recognizes 7 Northern MN conservation officers as lifesavers
Conservation officers stationed in Bemidji, Benson, Blackduck, Brainerd, Karlstad, Staples and Warroad were recognized for recent lifesaving efforts in Northern Minnesota.
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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Deanne Trottier
During the Phenology Report for the week of Dec. 23, 2025, Staff Phenologist John Latimer covers subnivean tunnels, and the comparative bite force of mink and voles.
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Stay up to date on what's happening up north with KAXE/KBXE News, bringing you the top stories across Northern Minnesota.
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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