Cub Baxter To Close After Buy Out

Miner’s Incorporated is expanding its footprint with a tentative agreement to acquire S&R Quisberg Inc.’s Cub Foods and Supervalu stores in Brainerd, Baxter, and Pequot Lakes. As part of the deal, the Baxter Cub Foods will permanently close in September 2025, citing market consolidation and efficiency. The Brainerd and Pequot Lakes locations will be rebranded…

Miltona Marks 55 Years Since Devastating Tornado

Miltona, Minn (KWAD) — Fifty-five years ago this Friday, Miltona was forever changed by a powerful tornado that tore through its heart on July 18, 1970. Though the storm lasted only minutes, its impact left a lasting mark on the community—and became a defining moment in its history. The tornado touched down at approximately 7:02…

Lakes Jam Announces Major Format Change for 2026

Brainerd, Minn (KWAD)— Lakes Jam, one of Minnesota’s signature summer music festivals, is making its biggest shift yet. Organizers announced that beginning in 2026, the Thursday night lineup—traditionally reserved for rock music—will be opened to a wide range of genres, with rock no longer serving as the sole focus of the night. “We’re not saying…

Zeke’s Takes: Is Byron Buxton on the Twins Outfield Mount Rushmore Yet?

For much of his career, Byron Buxton has been both a marvel and a mystery…the biggest “what if” in Twins history. A once-in-a-generation, Hall-of-Fame caliber talent capable of jaw-dropping defense, game-changing speed, and clutch power—but also a player whose time on the field has been plagued by injury and frustration. In 2025, we’re seeing with…

Suspect Hospitalized After Officer-Involved Shooting At Frazee Rest Stop

DETROIT LAKES, Minn. (KWAD) — A domestic assault call in Becker County led to a multi-agency pursuit and an officer-involved shooting Wednesday evening, according to the Becker County Sheriff’s Office. Authorities were dispatched around 5:30 p.m. to a report of a domestic assault at a residence in the 200 block of Becker County Highway 21….

Cold Spring’s FireFest Country Music Festival Cancelled for 2025

COLD SPRING, Minn. (KWAD) — FireFest 2025, the annual country music festival in Cold Spring, will not take place this year. Organizers made the difficult announcement on Monday, citing “a number of reasons which were largely outside of our control” as the cause for the cancellation. Originally scheduled for Saturday, July 26, FireFest has become…

Where to Watch Fireworks This Week:

As Independence Day approaches, communities across the region are preparing to light up the night sky with dazzling fireworks displays. Whether you’re in the heart of lake country or planning to catch a small-town celebration, there are plenty of options to enjoy the festivities this week. Bemidji – July 2nd at 10:10 p.m. The Bemidji…

Minnesota Heat Wave: Identifying Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke

WADENA, MINN (KWAD) – With hot and humid weather settling into Minnesota this weekend and temperatures climbing into the 90s, health officials are warning residents to take the dangers of extreme heat seriously. Rising heat is more than just uncomfortable—it’s a real threat to public health.  As temperatures increase, so does our risk for heat-related…

Full Event Schedule for 2025 Wadena County Fair

WADENA, Minn (KWAD). — The Wadena County Fair is back and bigger than ever, inviting everyone to “Make Some Memories at the Fair” from Tuesday, June 17 through Sunday, June 22. With a full slate of activities, competitions, entertainment, and food, there’s something for everyone at this beloved community tradition. Tuesday, June 17: Kickoff Day…