News Archives - Page 2 of 902

In Minneapolis, all-encompassing immigration story tests a newsroom in midst of digital transition

23 hours ago

By DAVID BAUDER - AP Media Writer

With the eyes of a nation upon it, the Minnesota immigration enforcement effort has tested a local newsroom in the midst of a digital transformation — and it hasn’t left the local journalists overmatched. The Minnesota Star Tribune has produced some memorable stories and images over the past month. While a two-decade downturn has hollowed out many strong regional newspapers, the Star Tribune is part of a robust journalism tradition and has invested in its product, helping to make it ready for the moment. The news has compelled changes in how it does business, with the Star Tribune website’s live blog taking center stage.

Anthony Edwards, Julius Randle lead Timberwolves to a 131-114 victory over the Grizzlies

January 31, 2026

By CLAY BAILEY - Associated Press

Anthony Edwards scored 33 points, Julius Randle added 27 points and seven assists, and the Minnesota Timberwolves won their fourth straight, 131-114 over the Memphis Grizzlies. Naz Reid and Jaden McDaniels had 20 points apiece for the Timberwolves, Reid adding nine rebounds. Rudy Gobert grabbed 16 boards and added a pair of blocks. Ty Jerome, playing in his first game of the season after recovering from a right calf strain, led Memphis with 20 points and six assists but could not prevent the Grizzlies from losing their sixth straight. GG Jackson added 19 points and Jaylen Wells had 15.

Institutional Investor Opportunity in Lithium: Elektros Inc. Enhances Strategic Communications and Investor Outreach at an Attractive Entry Point

January 31, 2026

ACCESS Newswire

Company Retains Ludlow Consulting to Elevate Institutional-Grade Messaging, Media Relations and AI-Enabled Investor EngagementSUNNY ISLES BEACH, FL / ACCESS Newswire / January 31, 2026 / Elektros Inc. (OTC PINK:ELEK), a hard-rock lithium mining developer with operations in Sierra Leone, today announced it has retained Ludlow Consulting as its strategic communications advisor to enhance corporate messaging, media visibility, and shareholder engagement.For…

Bottom-Basement Entry to Lithium’s Next Wave: Elektros Advances Strategic Communications as Global Demand Surges

January 31, 2026

ACCESS Newswire

Company Retains Ludlow Consulting to Elevate Institutional-Grade Messaging, Media Relations and AI-Enabled Investor EngagementSUNNY ISLES BEACH, FL / ACCESS Newswire / January 31, 2026 / Elektros Inc. (OTC PINK:ELEK), a hard-rock lithium mining developer with operations in Sierra Leone, today announced it has retained Ludlow Consulting as its strategic communications advisor to enhance corporate messaging, media visibility, and shareholder engagement.The…

Garner, Adley lead Central Michigan past Bowling Green 62-59

January 31, 2026

By The Associated Press

Keenan Garner scored 18 points to lead the Central Michigan Chippewas and Tamario Adley secured the victory with a jump shot with 33 seconds remaining as the Chippewas knocked off the Bowling Green Falcons 62-59 on Saturday. The Chippewas moved to 7-15 with the win and the Falcons fell to 13-9.

Bettiol and UMass defeat Eastern Michigan 70-67

January 31, 2026

By The Associated Press

Leonardo Bettiol scored 20 points to lead the UMass Minutemen as the Minutemen knocked off the Eastern Michigan Eagles 70-67 on Saturday. The Minutemen improved to 14-9 with the win and the Eagles fell to 9-13.

Wowed by the agility dogs at the Westminster show? Handlers explain how it’s done

January 31, 2026

By JENNIFER PELTZ - Associated Press

They have to run a convoluted obstacle course in front of a crowd. They have to have enough focus to avoid wrong turns, enough precision to ensure their feet touch certain spots and enough speed to beat dozens of rivals. So how did the dogs in Saturday’s Westminster Kennel Club agility competition do it? Last year’s winning handler, Emily Klarman, says the key is teamwork between the dogs and the handlers. This year the agility competition kicked off the Westminster’s storied club’s milestone 150th dog show.

A Rare Entry Into the Lithium Cycle: Elektros Inc. Strengthens Investor Communications and Positions for the Next Phase of Growth

January 31, 2026

ACCESS Newswire

Company Retains Ludlow Consulting to Elevate Institutional-Grade Messaging, Media Relations and AI-Enabled Investor EngagementSUNNY ISLES BEACH, FL / ACCESS Newswire / January 31, 2026 / Elektros Inc. (OTC PINK:ELEK), a hard-rock lithium mining developer with operations in Sierra Leone, today announced it has retained Ludlow Consulting as its strategic communications advisor to enhance corporate messaging, media visibility, and shareholder engagement.For…

New Epstein files include emails between LA Olympics leader Wasserman and Ghislaine Maxwell

January 31, 2026

AP

The latest collection of government files released on Jeffrey Epstein include emails from 2003 between Casey Wasserman, the head of the Los Angeles Olympics organizing committee, and Epstein’s one-time partner, Ghislaine Maxwell. Among the exchanges include Wasserman telling Maxwell “I think of you all the time. So, what do I have to do to see you in a tight leather outfit?” Wasserman released a statement saying he deeply regretted his correspondence with Maxwell and that he never had a business or personal relationship with Epstein. Maxwell is serving a 20-year prison sentence for convictions on sex-trafficking charges.

A Once-in-a-Century Opportunity in the Lithium Theme: Elektros Inc. Advances Investor Communications to Support Growth in Critical Minerals

January 31, 2026

ACCESS Newswire

Company Retains Ludlow Consulting to Elevate Institutional-Grade Messaging, Media Relations and AI-Enabled Investor EngagementSUNNY ISLES BEACH, FL / ACCESS Newswire / January 31, 2026 / Elektros Inc. (OTC PINK:ELEK), a hard-rock lithium mining developer with operations in Sierra Leone, today announced it has retained Ludlow Consulting as its strategic communications advisor to enhance corporate messaging, media visibility, and shareholder engagement.For…

Trump says feds won’t intervene during protests in Democratic-led cities unless asked to do so

January 31, 2026

By WILL WEISSERT - Associated Press

President Donald Trump says he’s instructed Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem not to intervene in protests in Democratic-led cities unless local authorities request federal help. On his social media site Saturday, Trump posted that federal authorities will not participate in protests or riots, unless asked. He did not provide details on how such an order would affect immigration enforcement operations going forward but emphasized protecting federal buildings. The Trump administration has already deployed forces in several Democratic areas. Opposition to these tactics has grown, especially in Minnesota, where protests erupted after federal officers fatally shot two people in Minneapolis.

Judge orders 5-year-old Liam Conejo Ramos and his dad released from ICE detention

January 31, 2026

By GEOFF MULVIHILL - Associated Press

A judge has ordered the U.S. to release a father and 5-year-old son who were taken into custody during the immigration crackdown in Minnesota. Images of preschooler Liam Conejo Ramos in a bunny hat and Spiderman backpack being surrounded by federal agents in a Minneapolis suburb on Jan. 20 added to the outcry about the immigration actions of President Donald Trump’s administration. The government says the father and son, originally from Ecuador, entered the U.S. in 2024. They were taken to a detention facility in Dilley, Texas. The judge previously ruled that they could not be removed from the U.S. for now.

MacKinnon scores twice to become the 1st 40-goal scorer of the season, Avalanche blank Red Wings 5-0

January 31, 2026

By DANA GAURUDER - Associated Press

Nathan MacKinnon scored twice to become the league’s first 40-goal scorer this season and the Colorado Avalanche continued their dominance of Detroit with a 5-0 victory over the Red Wings. MacKinnon also had an assist, giving him 699 for his career. He failed to score in the previous five games, his longest drought of the season. MacKinnon increased his season point total to 91, trailing only Edmonton’s Connor McDavid. Mackenzie Blackwood secured his third shutout this season by making 28 saves.

New Bills coach Brady fills defensive coordinator job by hiring Leonhard

January 31, 2026

By JOHN WAWROW - AP Sports Writer

The Buffalo Bills have hired Jim Leonhard as their defensive coordinator under new head coach Joe Brady. The 43-year-old Leonhard spent the past two seasons with the Denver Broncos, including last year as the team’s assistant head coach and defensive pass game coordinator. He is the second Broncos assistant to join Brady’s staff. Pete Carmichael was hired as offensive coordinator. The Bills also filled their special teams coordinator vacancy by hiring Jeff Rodgers, who spent the past eight years holding the same position with the Arizona Cardinals.

Former Prince Andrew can’t escape Epstein’s shadow as new documents reveal details about friendship

January 31, 2026

By DANICA KIRKA - Associated Press

Britain’s royal family is facing a fresh round of embarrassment after the latest release of documents from the U.S. investigation into Jeffrey Epstein revealed unsavory details about the relationship between the convicted sex offender and a correspondent who appears to be the man formerly known as Prince Andrew. Emails released by the U.S. Justice Department include an invitation for Epstein to dine at Buckingham Palace, Epstein’s offer to introduce his correspondent to a 26-year-old Russian woman, and photos that appear to show Andrew kneeling over an unidentified woman who is lying on the floor. The revelations come three months after King Charles III stripped Andrew of his royal titles, including the right to be called a prince.

Judge says she won’t halt the immigration enforcement surge as a lawsuit proceeds

January 31, 2026

AP

A federal judge says she won’t halt the immigration enforcement surge in Minnesota and the Twin Cities as a lawsuit over it proceeds. Judge Katherine M. Menendez on Saturday denied a preliminary injunction sought in a lawsuit filed this month by state Attorney General Keith Ellison and the mayors of Minneapolis and St. Paul. It argued that the Department of Homeland Security is violating constitutional protections. The lawsuit sought a quick order to halt the enforcement action or limit its scope. Lawyers with the U.S. Department of Justice have called the lawsuit “legally frivolous.” Federal officers have fatally shot two people on the streets of Minneapolis: Renee Good on Jan. 7 and Alex Pretti on Jan. 24.

NBA suspends Philadelphia 76ers’ Paul George 25 games for violating anti-drug policy

January 31, 2026

By TIM REYNOLDS - AP Basketball Writer

Paul George of the Philadelphia 76ers has been suspended for 25 games for violating the NBA’s anti-drug program. The league announced the suspension on Saturday but did not disclose the substance involved. This is George’s first violation, according to the agreement between the NBA and the Players Association. The suspension will cost him approximately $11.7 million of his salary. George is expected to return on March 25 when Philadelphia faces Chicago. The 76ers are currently sixth in the Eastern Conference. George has averaged 16 points in 27 games this season, ranking third on the team.

How bomb cyclones form and create dangerous conditions

January 31, 2026

By ISABELLA O'MALLEY - Associated Press

Meteorologists sometimes warn of a winter storm that could “bomb out” or become a bomb cyclone. According to the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, this happens when a storm’s central pressure drops at least 24 millibars in 24 hours. The lower the pressure, the stronger the storm. These rapidly strengthening storms can produce heavy rain and intense winds, creating dangerous conditions. Bomb cyclones mainly occur in fall and winter when Arctic air clashes with warmer air masses. Regions prone to these storms include Alaska, the Pacific Northwest, and the Great Lakes.

Trump moved fast to cut a funding deal. It’s a striking change from the last shutdown fight

January 31, 2026

By JOEY CAPPELLETTI and STEPHEN GROVES - Associated Press

President Donald Trump acted quickly to negotiate with Democratic senators on a deal to avert a government shutdown. It was a big change from his stance during last year’s record-long standoff, when he refused to budge for weeks during a shutdown. Trump’s urgency reflects a changed political landscape and mounting pressure on the Republican administration. Republicans are still dealing with the fallout from two recent fatal shootings by federal agent shootings in Minneapolis and from the 43-day shutdown last year. Some Republicans are frustrated by Trump’s deal with Democrats and are raising the possible of a prolonged shutdown fight when the House returns Monday to vote.

As officials disparage Pretti and Good, families of Black people killed by police have déjà vu

January 31, 2026

By AARON MORRISON - Associated Press

The shooting deaths of white protesters Alex Pretti and Renee Good by federal officers in Minneapolis have followed a playbook that is painfully familiar to Black Americans. Authorities quickly moved to disparage the victims, only to be contradicted as more evidence emerged. Black families who have lost loved ones to police violence say the killings in Minnesota have brought back painful memories of their own fights for justice as law enforcement agencies spun up narratives to suggest officers had no other choice but to kill their relatives. Some advocates say the Minneapolis shootings should be a reminder to all Americans that injustice disproportionately impacting Black people can impact them, too.

Power outages hit Ukraine and Moldova as Kyiv struggles against the winter cold

January 31, 2026

By SUSIE BLANN - Associated Press

Emergency power cuts swept across several Ukrainian cities as well as neighboring Moldova, officials said, following a commitment from the Kremlin to U.S. President Donald Trump to pause strikes on Kyiv as Ukraine continues to battle one of its bleakest winters in years. Ukraine’s Energy Minister, Denys Shmyhal, said that the outages had been caused by a technical malfunction affecting several power lines. The shortages follow weeks of Russian strikes against Ukraine’s already struggling energy grid, which have already triggered long stretches of severe power shortages. Moscow has sought to deny Ukrainian civilians heat, light and running water over the course of the war, in a strategy that Ukrainian officials describe as “weaponizing winter.”

Pet sounds: Why some dog owners share music with their 4-legged friends

January 31, 2026

By CHEYANNE MUMPHREY - Associated Press

People use music to set moods, create a desired atmosphere and evoke memories of family and friends. The right song at the right time can have similar effects for some dogs. Pet owners and animal shelter workers sometimes use music as a training tool, a distraction from triggers and to create a relaxing environment for dogs kept in kennels or left alone at home. But researchers say music is context-dependent, meaning the effects vary based on dogs’ temperament, the setting, the type of tune and the volume at which it’s played. Experts say music can be a paw-sitive experience, but it’s crucial to know your dog and to stay attuned to signs of distress.

What to know about the partial government shutdown and its impact

January 31, 2026

By MEG KINNARD and KEVIN FREKING - Associated Press

The partial government shutdown is a lot different from the record-long shutdown in the fall. That’s mostly because the shutdown that began Saturday may not last long. When the House returns on Monday, lawmakers will try to pass legislation quickly that would end the shutdown. Congress has passed half this year’s funding bills, and that means several important federal agencies and programs continue to operate. Nutrition assistance programs should be unaffected. But funding is lapsing, at least temporarily, for the Pentagon and agencies such as the departments of Homeland Security and Transportation. Essential functions will continue, but workers could go without pay if the impasse drags on.

No REAL ID yet? You can still fly, but it may cost $45 without another form of accepted ID

January 31, 2026

By RIO YAMAT - AP Airlines and Travel Writer

Air travelers in the U.S. without a REAL ID or another acceptable form of identification are subject to a new fee starting Sunday. The non-refundable $45 charge isn’t a penalty or fine, but payment for non-compliant travelers to use the Transportation Security Administration’s new alternate identity verification option called ConfirmID. The process can take up to 30 minutes and doesn’t guarantee passengers will make their flight if their identity can’t be verified.

Separatists kill 21 including civilians in multiple attacks in Pakistan

January 31, 2026

By ABDUL SATTAR and MUNIR AHMED - Associated Press

Separatists from Pakistan’s Balochistan province have claimed responsibility for nearly a dozen coordinated attacks across southern Pakistan. The attacks targeted a high-security prison, police stations and paramilitary installations. At least 11 civilians, 10 security personnel and 67 insurgents were killed, authorities said. The Baloch Liberation Army claimed responsibility, releasing videos showing female fighters. The attacks began early Saturday and included the destruction of rail tracks, prompting train service suspensions. Authorities said nearly 100 militants have been killed across Balochistan over the past 48 hours. Balochistan has long been the site of an insurgency by separatist groups seeking independence from Pakistan’s central government.

The Carolinas emerge as new population boom states. Affordability and lifestyle drive growth

January 31, 2026

By MIKE SCHNEIDER - Associated Press

North Carolina and South Carolina have become two hot spots for growth in the United States. North Carolina was the top destination for domestic migrants in the U.S., attracting 84,000 people from other states last year. South Carolina had the highest overall growth rate at 1.5%. Florida, previously a top choice for domestic residents, fell to eighth place as more people chose to move elsewhere. Texas saw a year-to-year decrease in domestic migration, with 67,300 new domestic residents. North Carolina’s appeal includes its location, job opportunities and diverse landscapes. Despite changes in domestic migration, Texas and Florida still had the highest number of new residents overall.

In an increasingly hostile world, migrants are hopeful as Spain moves to integrate them

January 31, 2026

By RENATA BRITO - Associated Press

More than half a million foreigners are believed to live in Spain without legal permission. Like in the United States and much of Europe, these immigrants work jobs that few nationals want. Many fail to find any work at all, sliding into poverty and homelessness. Now, Spain wants to integrate them. Earlier this week, the government announced it would grant residency and work permits to all foreigners who arrived in the country before Dec. 31, 2025, have lived in Spain for at least five months, and have no criminal records. More than a dozen men and women who are hoping to legalize their status told the AP that Spain’s extraordinary move could allow them to get jobs in the formal economy.

Elena Rybakina wins Australian Open by beating No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka for her 2nd Grand Slam title

January 31, 2026

By JOHN PYE - AP Sports Writer

Elena Rybakina has won the Australian Open title with a 6-4, 4-6, 6-4 victory over top-ranked Aryna Sabalenka that avenged her loss in the championship decider here in 2023. Four years ago she won the first set but lost the final in three. This time, after breaking in the first game and taking the first set, she rallied after losing the second set and going down 3-0 in the third. She won five straight games and then closed out with an ace on her first championship point.

America is drinking more coffee but less of it from Starbucks

January 31, 2026

By DEE-ANN DURBIN - AP Business Writer

Starbucks revolutionized the United States’ coffee culture. But it’s facing unprecedented competition. And that will make it harder to win back customers it’s lost to perennial rival Dunkin’ and fast-growing drive-thru chains like Dutch Bros and 7 Brew. Seattle-based Starbucks was a small, regional chain when former CEO Howard Schultz acquired it in 1987 and made it a global brand. Now, other small chains are seeing explosive growth. Chinese chains like Luckin Coffee and Mixue also are getting into the mix. The chief operating officer of Starbucks says the company believes the way to stay on top is to open more cafes that offer both convenience and a comfortable place to linger.

As ceasefire advances and Rafah nears reopening, hospitals say 12 killed in Israeli strikes in Gaza

January 31, 2026

By WAFAA SHURAFA and SAMY MAGDY - Associated Press

Hospitals in Gaza said Israeli strikes killed at least 12 Palestinians early Saturday, one of the highest tolls since an October agreement aimed at stopping the fighting. The strikes hit northern and southern Gaza, including an apartment in Gaza City and a tent in Khan Younis, officials at the Nasser and Shifa Hospitals said. The casualties included two women and six children from two different families. Israel’s military did not immediately respond to questions about the strikes. The strikes came a day before a border crossing is set to open in Gaza’s southernmost city, a reminder that the death poll is still rising even as a ceasefire agreement inches forward.

At least 200 killed in coltan mine collapse in eastern Congo, rebel authorities say

January 31, 2026

By JUSTIN KABUMBA AND MARK BANCHEREAU - Associated Press

Rebel authorities say at least 200 people were killed in a landslide at coltan mines in eastern Congo. The collapse happened Wednesday due to heavy rains at the Rubaya mines, controlled by M23 rebels. Many victims remain buried in the mud. Several others were injured and taken to health facilities in Rubaya. The rebel-appointed governor has halted mining and ordered relocations near the site. Rubaya is a major source of tantalum, crucial for electronics. The region has long been plagued by conflict, with millions displaced.

Venezuela announces amnesty bill that could lead to mass release of political prisoners

January 30, 2026

By REGINA GARCIA CANO - Associated Press

Venezuela’s acting President Delcy Rodríguez has announced an amnesty bill that could lead to the release of hundreds of prisoners, including opposition leaders, journalists and human rights activists detained for political reasons. The measure had long been sought by the United States-backed opposition. It is the latest concession Rodríguez has made since taking the reins of the country on Jan. 3 after the brazen seizure of then-President Nicolás Maduro in a U.S. military attack in Venezuela’s capital, Caracas. Rodríguez told a gathering of justices, magistrates and others that the ruling party-controlled National Assembly would take up the bill with urgency.

ICE claim that a man shattered his skull running into wall triggers tension at a Minnesota hospital

January 30, 2026

By JACK BROOK, JIM MUSTIAN and MICHAEL BIESECKER - Associated Press

Nurses in Minneapolis doubted federal immigration officers’ claims about a Mexican immigrant’s severe injuries. ICE agents said Alberto Castañeda Mondragón ran headfirst into a wall while handcuffed. But hospital staff found his injuries inconsistent with that account. The seemingly implausible explanation from ICE is just one example of recent encounters that have undermined the agency’s credibility at Minneapolis hospitals and contributed to mounting friction between medical staff and immigration officers. Workers at the Hennepin County facility say ICE officers have restrained patients in defiance of hospital rules and stayed at their sides for days. The agents have also lingered around the campus and pressed people for proof of citizenship.

Protesters close schools and stores during a nationwide strike against Trump’s immigration policies

January 30, 2026

By KIMBERLEE KRUESI and HOLLY RAMER - Associated Press

Protesters across the U.S. shut down schools and stores during a nationwide strike to oppose the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown in Minneapolis. The demonstrations came almost a week after intensive care nurse Alex Pretti was killed while recording Border Patrol officers with his cellphone. Multiple businesses announced they would be closed during the “blackout,” while some schools canceled classes in anticipation of mass absences. Some students walked out of classes and others gathered churches, courthouses and city centers.

Gone are the days of the $1 buffet in Las Vegas. Now $175 buffets offer luxury dining

January 30, 2026

By JESSICA HILL - Associated Press

Las Vegas buffets have evolved from $1 all-you-can-eat cold cuts to $175 limitless lobster and caviar. Buffets used to be an option in nearly every casino on the Las Vegas Strip, but many have been replaced with trendy food halls and celebrity chef restaurants. Buffets have declined in part due to consumer demands. The COVID-19 pandemic was the nail in the coffin, forcing casinos to rethink their dining offerings. While buffets used to offer cheap and quick food options, the buffets that remain are Las Vegas attractions offering a high-end dining experience.

A Sudanese doctor recounts his harrowing escape from a Darfur city under rebel bombardment

January 30, 2026

By SAMY MAGDY - Associated Press

Three months after paramilitary fighters overran the Sudanese city of el-Fasher, a doctor is providing a rare first-person account of the attack. The capital of North Darfur province was engulfed in violence, leaving bodies in the streets and forcing civilians to flee, according to Dr. Mohamed Ibrahim. United Nations officials say thousands of civilians were killed during the onslaught. Ibrahim described the chaos as people ran in terror, desperate to evade gunmen. He eventually reached safety, but is haunted by the brutality he witnessed.

Cold conditions bring hot competition to Barkers Island

January 30, 2026

Lauren Martinson,

SUPERIOR, Wis. — Engines roared across the ice as racing enthusiasts gathered for a winter competition on a track far from traditional. From bikes, to quads, and side-by-sides, the competition welcomed a variety of racers taking to the ice in front of Barkers Island. The event, hosted by the nonprofit group Midwest Ice Racing Association, takes place during the Lake…

Zenith Bookstore sees increased sales in the dystopian genre

January 30, 2026

Lauren Martinson,

DULUTH, Minn. — A local bookstore has seen an uptick in sales for one particular genre. As many Minnesotans express uncertainties about the state’s future, many readers are gravitating toward dystopian novels. Zenith Bookstore in Duluth has noticed the trend, spanning everything from the classics to new releases. Store manager, Sarah Brown said, “history repeats itself, and what these books…

Judge blocks additional citizenship provisions in latest setback to Trump’s election executive order

January 30, 2026

By TOM VERDIN - Associated Press

A federal judge has blocked certain federal agencies from requesting citizenship status when distributing voter registration forms. The ruling Friday is the latest blow to a wide-ranging executive order on elections President Donald Trump signed last year. U.S. District Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly ruled that the Constitution’s separation of powers, giving states and to an extent Congress authority over election rules, lay at the heart of the case. The ruling said agencies will not be allowed to “assess citizenship” before providing a federal voter registration form to people enrolling in public assistance programs. It also barred the Secretary of Defense from requiring documentary proof of citizenship when military personnel register to vote or request ballots.

St. Louis County officials give their side of the release of recent escapee

January 30, 2026

Matt McConico,

Michael Todd Hart DULUTH, Minn. – Sheriff Gordon Ramsay and County Attorney Kim Maki released a joint statement about the jail release of Michael Todd Hart. On January 21, Hart was released from the Itasca County Jail. Hart was the subject of a large manhunt when he walked away from the Northeast Regional Corrections Center (NERCC) approximately four months prior….

Lake Superior Ice Festival kicks off for weekend of fun

January 30, 2026

Jadie Jones,

SUPERIOR, Wis. — The Lake Superior Ice Festival is celebrating its 10th anniversary. From hockey to disc golf, a tubing hill, arts, crafts, food trucks and so much more – there is something for everyone at this fun family friendly event. It’s not all out in the cold either. There is an escape room, bonfires, warming tents, and other indoor…

Mayors warn that Trump’s hardline immigration tactics could dent trust in law enforcement

January 30, 2026

By STEVEN SLOAN - Associated Press

Elizabeth Kautz, mayor of Burnsville, Minnesota, says she carries her passport in her own city due to concerns about immigration enforcement. Her comments came during the United States Conference of Mayors in Washington. The gathering, usually focused on issues like housing and climate change, was overshadowed by the recent killing of Alex Jeffrey Pretti by federal agents in Minneapolis. Mayor David Holt of Oklahoma City highlighted the chaos from increased immigration enforcement. Many mayors appreciate President Donald Trump’s calls to deescalate but face pressure to remove federal agents. Trust in law enforcement is at risk, as communities feel targeted.

Twins executive Derek Falvey departs in mutual agreement as organizational revamp continues

January 30, 2026

By DAVE CAMPBELL - AP Sports Writer

The Minnesota Twins and president of baseball and business operations Derek Falvey have mutually decided to part ways. The 42-year-old Falvey spent nine seasons with the Twins. He was hired to run the baseball department and elevated a year ago to oversee the business side as well. The Twins made the postseason four times during Falvey’s tenure. The last two years have been rocky for the organization both on and off the field. Executive vice president and general manager Jeremy Zoll remains in his role overseeing the baseball department. Executive chair Tom Pohlad assumes interim oversight of the business operations.

48th annual Atmore Memorial Alpine Ski Race draws in athletes from around the world

January 30, 2026

Paige Hansen,

DULUTH, Minn. — The 48th annual Atmore Memorial Alpine Ski Race kicked off today at Spirit Mountain. The event is hosted by Team Duluth and named in memory of Dr. William Atmore, one of the original founders of the Duluth/Superior Alpine Club, now called Team Duluth. The slalom ski event welcomes over 200 athletes from around the globe, from Jamaica…

Ahead of potential final game with Seahawks, RB Kenneth Walker III is firing on all cylinders

January 30, 2026

By ANDREW DESTIN - AP Sports Writer

Seattle Seahawks running back Kenneth Walker III has surged lately and at optimal timing considering fellow tailback Zach Charbonnet is out with a season-ending knee injury. But Walker is also in the final year of his rookie contract and is scheduled to be an unrestricted free agent after this season. As Walker continues to surge, so does his value, which brings uncertainty to his future in Seattle while the Seahawks seek to win their second Super Bowl in franchise history.

Vikings fire general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah after 4 seasons and contract extension last year

January 30, 2026

By DAVE CAMPBELL - AP Pro Football Writer

The Minnesota Vikings have fired general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah after mixed results over four seasons and giving him a contract extension last year. The Vikings appointed executive vice president of football operations Rob Brzezinski as the interim replacement through the NFL draft. The search for a new general manager will take place after that. Vikings owners Zygi Wilf and Mark Wilf said they made the decision following their annual end-of-season organizational meetings. The Vikings finished 9-8 and missed the playoffs for a second time in Adofo-Mensah’s four years. They didn’t win a postseason game.

One dead in Douglas County snowmobile crash

January 30, 2026

Matt McConico,

Gordon Snowmobile Crash Scene. Thursday Jan 29, 2026 GORDON, Wis. – The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office says one person is dead following a single snowmobile crash in the Town Of Gordon. The crash was called into Douglas County 911 at 9:08pm on Thursday January 29, 2026. This victim is identified as Marvin Sloper, 68, of Centuria, WI. The initial reports are Sloper…

Bruce Springsteen sings out against Trump in ‘Streets of Minneapolis’

January 30, 2026

The Associated Press,

Bruce Springsteen (CNN) Bruce Springsteen is dedicating his new song to the people of Minneapolis, criticizing President Donald Trump’s ongoing immigration enforcement operations in the city. The lyrics of “Streets of Minneapolis,” released Wednesday, describe how “a city aflame fought fire and ice ’neath an occupier’s boots,” which Springsteen calls “King Trump’s private army.” Springsteen in a statement said he wrote and recorded the song…

Itasca County Sheriff explains why prison escapee was released

January 30, 2026

Matt McConico,

Joe Dasovich GRAND RAPIDS, Minn. – The Itasca County Sheriff Joe Dasovich has released a statement explaining the release of Michael Hart. On January 21, Hart was released from the Itasca County Jail. Hart was the subject of a large manhunt when he walked away from the Northeast Regional Corrections Center (NERCC) approximately four months prior. The statement from Dasovich…

NASA delays the first Artemis moonshot with astronauts because of extreme cold at the launch site

January 30, 2026

By MARCIA DUNN - AP Aerospace Writer

NASA has delayed astronauts’ upcoming trip to the moon because of near-freezing temperatures expected at the launch site. The first Artemis moonshot with a crew is now targeted for no earlier than Feb. 8, two days later than planned. NASA was all set to conduct a fueling test of the massive moon rocket on Saturday, but called everything off late Thursday because of the expected cold. The critical dress rehearsal is now set for Monday, weather permitting. The change leaves NASA with only three days in February to send four astronauts around the moon and back, before slipping into March.