Top Stories
Megan Buffington
/
KAXE
The second round of severe thunderstorms on June 29, 2026, knocked out power for even more people than the first round did, with strong winds, large hail and heavy rain.
Contributed
/
KAXE
Music
Do you love Green Cheese? Enter the 2026 Green Cheese T-shirt contest with your own design today.
Northern Minnesota has numerous ways to celebrate the Fourth of July 2026 with fireworks shows, local parades and festivals and more. Hang out with your neighbors or discover a new community.
The album of the week is America in a nutshell — it's cumbia from Portland, Oregon!
Led by veteran musicians David "Papi" Fimbres and Carlos Segovia, the 11-piece collective is on its way to proving that cumbia knows no borders on its third album, El Poder.
The lead and title track immediately gives the listener the direction of what is to come, and "Fantasma" has an Arabic lick leading the way while leaning into the psychedelia with deep grooves. "Desierto," "Chipi Chipi," "Escalofriante" and "Diablada" all demand a listen.
El Poder sees the band carving out its own distinctive sound, blending the infectious rhythms of traditional cumbia through the lens of the psychedelic Pacific Northwest. The result? A vibrant, groove-filled album that celebrates both cultural roots and musical exploration. -KH
Led by veteran musicians David "Papi" Fimbres and Carlos Segovia, the 11-piece collective is on its way to proving that cumbia knows no borders on its third album, El Poder.
The lead and title track immediately gives the listener the direction of what is to come, and "Fantasma" has an Arabic lick leading the way while leaning into the psychedelia with deep grooves. "Desierto," "Chipi Chipi," "Escalofriante" and "Diablada" all demand a listen.
El Poder sees the band carving out its own distinctive sound, blending the infectious rhythms of traditional cumbia through the lens of the psychedelic Pacific Northwest. The result? A vibrant, groove-filled album that celebrates both cultural roots and musical exploration. -KH
Latest Stories
Why the Fourth of July is more than fireworks on the Iron Range
Minnesota Star Tribune columnist and editorial board member Aaron Brown joined the "KAXE Morning Show" to talk about Iron Range immigration history, hometown reunions and why the Fourth of July is unlike any other holiday on the Range.
Brainerd man dies in Nisswa motorcycle crash
The Minnesota State Patrol reports the fatal crash on June 30, 2026, occurred when a motorcyclist struck the rear end of a northbound pickup truck on Highway 371.
White Earth, Fish and Wildlife sign Tamarac refuge funding agreement
The agreement provides funding for activities and programs, with three main areas where White Earth will take over responsibility — water and wild rice management, forestry and visitor services.
Mental health, poverty tied to incarceration disparities for Indigenous Minnesotans
In Northern Minnesota — home to all six Minnesota Chippewa Tribe bands and the sovereign Red Lake Nation — a lack of mental health services has led to jails and emergency rooms filling the gap for years.
Red raspberries ripen, heralding beginning of July berry season
During the Phenology Report for the week of June 30, 2026, Staff Phenologist John Latimer remarks on ripening fruits, blooming flowers, and chipmunks calling.
Area Voices: Grand Rapids Players take 'Sir Valourant' on the road
The Grand Rapids Players present “Sir Valourant and the Dragon” in Hill City, Bigfork and Remer throughout the summer.
Bright Spot: Tinkerers wanted for fix-it events
Happy Dancing Turtle is looking for volunteers who have skills in sewing, fixing and general tinkering as they plan fix-it events beginning in the fall of 2026.
Determined House Wrens twist and turn outsize sticks into their nests
During the week of June 30, 2026, we enjoy reports of House Wrens, yellow irises, and red raspberries. Staff phenologist John Latimer responds.
The Setlist: Where to hear live music July 3-4, 2026
KAXE's weekly list of concerts near you features Sam Miltich & Friends, Michael Gulezian, Kitchi Boogie, Corey Medina & Brothers, and Squid City Slingers.
Another round of storms knocks out power for thousands; White Earth, USFWS sign new agreement
Plus: Bemidji is the clay target state champion; and check out KAXE's fireworks guide, The 4th Up North.
Beyond the Voice: Sarah Sarah
Get to know the volunteers behind the mic on KAXE. This week we find out more from "On the River" host and volunteer, Sarah Sarah.
Fatal crash shuts down Hwy 169; Wind destroys Bemidji Water Carnival tent
Plus: A allegedly intoxicated driver lands an SUV onto a building with a resident inside in Naytahwaush
With The Setlist, KAXE's Music Team curates the best live music to catch each week across Northern Minnesota and beyond.
Contributed
/
Dave McMillan
During the week of June 16, 2026, we enjoy reports of sundews, damselflies, and Common Nighthawks. Staff phenologist John Latimer responds.
Contributed
/
Don Leaon
More Local Stories
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.
Don't miss a beat. 📻 Join our station's newsletter!
Check out our archives.
Join our Season Watch Newsletter!
"The mix of humor, solid information, and approachable science is perfect. It's like having a favorite neighbor who just happens to be a nature expert."
- Michelle from Northfield, MN
Check out what's been happening this past year!
Weather warning widgets from