Warroad Fire Department Looks Forward to Warroad Yeti-Fest 2026

By Mani Souphom – R & J Broadcasting, Inc. | Tuesday, February 17, 2026

Warroad’s annual Yeti-Fest is set for Saturday, March 14, offering a full day of end-of-winter fun and community fundraising. The event features a polar plunge benefiting Warroad Special Olympics, along with a 5K run and a variety of family-friendly activities.

Now in its 13th year, Yeti-Fest continues to draw strong local support. KQ92 and KRWB spoke with Warroad firefighter Damian McMillin about how the Fire Department prepares for the event and how they look forward to helping each year.

McMillin also outlined the department’s top priorities during Yeti-Fest, including safety planning, crowd support, and measures to keep participants comfortable in winter conditions.

For more information, including event details and registration, visit the Warroad Yeti-Fest Facebook page.

Artist Reception at Warroad Riverplace this Thursday

Warroad RiverPlace invites the public to a free reception and open house this Thursday, February 19, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., celebrating Nikki Besser’s exhibit Portrayals in Paper: Tales of Overcoming.

Through the intricate art form of paper quilling, which involves rolling, shaping, and arranging strips of paper, Besser’s large-scale works offer a unique and awe-inspiring experience. Her detailed portraits, often featuring birds and animals, invite viewers into imagined landscapes where reality and fantasy intertwine.

Guests can meet the artist, browse the exhibit, and enjoy light refreshments at this free event. The exhibit will remain on view through March 21, 2026, and is free to visit Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

After the reception, stay for a concert by the acclaimed vocal duo Aria Nouveau at 7:30 p.m. presented by the Northern Lights Concert Association.For more information, visit warroadriverplace.org.

House Republicans Lay out priorities for MN Session 

By Prestin Douville – R & J Broadcasting, Inc.

The Minnesota Legislative Session kicks off today, and House Republicans have announced their priorities for the session. House Speaker Lisa Demuth says there are no changes in their priorities from last session, and they hope to build on their successes from last year. 

GOP Floor Leader Harry Niska (R-Ramsey) lays out some of their legislative goals when it comes to combating fraud in Minnesota. 

Niska also tells us some of the House Republicans plan to make Minnesota more affordable in 2026, and beyond. 

As for Education Reform, Speaker Demuth says the GOP has some legislation that they will be bringing forward, and prioritizing during the session. 

With the start of the session today, legislators will have until May 18 to pass legislation per the Minnesota State Constitution.