Mexico is too dangerous for spring break, officials warn
The State Department and the Texas Department of Public Safety is urging the public against spring break vacations in Mexico amid the threat of kidnappings, crime and violence.
Mexico
3 women missing in Mexico after crossing from Texas on trip
U.S. authorities say three women haven't been heard from since they traveled from Texas into Mexico two weeks ago.
Minnesota newlyweds lose everything in houseboat fire
A fire during a destination wedding forced on Minnesota couple to put t heir vows to the test a lot sooner than expected.
Mexican drug cartel purportedly apologizes for deaths of kidnapped Americans
A photograph of five men face down on the pavement and bound accompanied the apology letter.
Immigrants react to signing of “driver’s licenses for all” bill
This bill being signed into law was the main topic of discussion over the lunch hour at Plaza del Sol on Payne Avenue, which is a co-working space made up of Latin-Immigrant-owned businesses.
Kidnapping of Americans in Mexico puts spotlight on "medical tourism"
In countries such as Mexico, Costa Rica or Thailand, the cost of a facelift or dental implant can be half as much as in the U.S.
2 Americans found dead in Mexico and 2 others alive after kidnapping
Two of the four U.S. citizens who went missing after a violent kidnapping in Mexico last week have been found dead and two are alive, Mexican authorities said on Tuesday.
2 Americans dead, 2 rescued and back in U.S. after Mexico kidnapping
One of the surviving U.S. citizens was wounded and the other wasn't, Tamaulipas Gov. Américo Villarreal said.
What we know about the 4 Americans kidnapped in Mexico
On Tuesday, Mexican and U.S. officials said two of the four U.S. citizens who went missing have been found dead and two are alive.
4 Americans missing after being kidnapped in Mexico, FBI says
The agency says their vehicle was fired on after it entered Matamoros, a city home to warring Gulf drug cartel factions.
31 bodies found in clandestine graves in region plagued by cartels
The state prosecutor said there was enough evidence to identify about half of the people found in the two graves.
Ernst says China is "intentionally poisoning" Americans amid fentanyl crisis
The senator said she believes the flow of precursor chemicals into Mexico is happening with the tacit approval of the Chinese.
Biden walks along U.S.-Mexico border in trip to Texas
The visit is his first to the U.S.-Mexico border as president.
Gang leader, 24 others escape border prison after attack kills 17
Ciudad Juarez was the scene of years of deadly clashes between security forces and the rival Sinaloa and Juarez drug cartels.
Over 580K migrants released into U.S. in 2022
On the southern border, the surge in migrants continues. Nearly 600,000 migrants have been allowed into the U.S. and processed by border control. But what happens to them once they're here?
At least 1 dead after powerful earthquake shakes Mexico's Pacific coast
The U.S. Tsunami Warning Center said that hazardous tsunami waves were possible for coasts within 186 miles of the epicenter.
Man Wanted In Moorhead Sex Crime Arrested In Mexico 21 Years Later
After 21 years on the run, a man who allegedly sexually assaulted a Moorhead teenager was arrested in Mexico Wednesday.
Vacationing Minnesotan Caught In Middle Of Drug War At Cancun Resort
A Minnesota man experienced a hotel horror in Mexico this week during a vacation.
Vaccinated Minnesotan Stuck Abroad After Testing Positive For COVID-19 In Mexico
Maya Buckner doesn't go far without her vaccine card showing she completed the Pfizer series in March -- including on a balcony in Cancun, Mexico, where she is now sick with COVID-19.
US Homeland Security: Canada, Mexico Borders Will Remain Closed To Non-Essential Travel Until At Least Aug. 21
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has extended restrictions on non-essential travel to Canada and Mexico.
Amy Klobuchar, Tom Steyer Couldn't Name Mexican President During Telemundo Interview
Democratic presidential hopefuls Amy Klobuchar and Tom Steyer were stumped when asked during a televised interview in Nevada to name the Mexican president.
Man Sentenced To 10 Years For Conspiracy In Immigrant Worker Case That Involved Nebraska, Minnesota Businesses
A man accused of providing to companies workers in the U.S. illegally has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for conspiring to harbor those people.
Dylan Bennett Now Back In Minnesota After Extradition From Mexico
Dylan John Bennett, who allegedly murdered his parents on Aug. 21, is now back in Minnesota after being extradited from Mexico.
MN Lawmakers, Others Along Northern Border Want Grain Rules Addressed
Republican senators along the northern U.S. border are asking officials to address grain in the trade deal with Canada and Mexico.
DHS To Allow Border Wall To Go Through National Monument, Wildlife Refuge
The Department of Homeland Security on Tuesday again waived environmental and dozens of other laws to build more barriers along the U.S.-Mexico border.
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Xcel Energy to power down Monticello nuclear plant early after more radioactive water leaks out
Xcel Energy will start to power down its nuclear plant in Monticello several weeks earlier than planned after more radioactive water was detected leaking out of the facility,
Senate mulls pdated paid family, medical leave bill that would offer 20 weeks
The updated Senate plan offers 20 weeks paid time long-term needs -- caring for a loved one who's got dealing with cancer or bonding with a newborn post-pregnancy.
Minnesota House set to debate and pass "trans refuge" legislation
"We have a responsibility to create more space for our community to live their fullest, authentic lives without fear of violence, rejection, abuse or political attack," said Rep. Leigh Finke.
World War II veteran honored with "Gordon Kirk Day" on 100th birthday celebration
Gov. Tim Walz declared the day as Gordy Kirk Day across the state in celebration of the veteran and his accomplishments.
Duran Douglas Wilson-Keezer sentenced to 9 years for firing assault rifle at people, cars, buildings in northern Minnesota
Wilson-Keezer walked along County Road 39 near the Leech Lake Indian Reservation on Feb. 22, 2022 -- firing multiple rounds at "pedestrians, passing vehicles" and a community center.
Twin Cities News
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Xcel Energy to power down Monticello nuclear plant early after more radioactive water leaks out
Xcel Energy will start to power down its nuclear plant in Monticello several weeks earlier than planned after more radioactive water was detected leaking out of the facility,
Senate mulls pdated paid family, medical leave bill that would offer 20 weeks
The updated Senate plan offers 20 weeks paid time long-term needs -- caring for a loved one who's got dealing with cancer or bonding with a newborn post-pregnancy.
World War II veteran honored with "Gordon Kirk Day" on 100th birthday celebration
Gov. Tim Walz declared the day as Gordy Kirk Day across the state in celebration of the veteran and his accomplishments.
Kade Eggum, Eagan police officer injured in crash, now listed in stable condition
"He still has a lot of recovery ahead of him, but appears to be doing remarkably well," Sergeant Rich Evans said in a press release.
Minneapolis immersion school teaches Ojibwe language in effort to preserve culture
Liz Zinsli is part of the movement to revitalize Ojibwe, and refrains from speaking English to her students in the classroom at Wicoie Nandagikendan.
Greater Minnesota News
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Senate mulls pdated paid family, medical leave bill that would offer 20 weeks
The updated Senate plan offers 20 weeks paid time long-term needs -- caring for a loved one who's got dealing with cancer or bonding with a newborn post-pregnancy.
Duran Douglas Wilson-Keezer sentenced to 9 years for firing assault rifle at people, cars, buildings in northern Minnesota
Wilson-Keezer walked along County Road 39 near the Leech Lake Indian Reservation on Feb. 22, 2022 -- firing multiple rounds at "pedestrians, passing vehicles" and a community center.
Mesabi East High School student and their bus driver hurt in crash
A child and their school bus driver were hurt in a crash Thursday morning in northern Minnesota.
NOAA still cautions potential for "major" spring flooding along Mississippi River
According to the NOAA, the flood potential for this segment of the river is "well above normal" and flood risk numbers indicate flooding could be the worst seen in over 20 years in portions of the Mississippi.
21-year-old charged with murder after human remains found in tote near Mille Lacs Lake
A 21-year-old man is facing a murder charge after construction workers found a tote of human remains on the Mille Lacs Lake shoreline Tuesday.
Wisconsin News
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Hackers attack Wisconsin court system computer network
Hackers have attacked the Wisconsin court system's computer network, court officials said Thursday.
Wisconsin Supreme Court candidate OK with Jan. 6 participant
The Republican-backed candidate for Wisconsin Supreme Court said Thursday that he had no problem with someone who was on the U.S. Capitol grounds during the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection campaigning for him across the state in the waning days of the high stakes race, calling his work "invaluable."
These Minnesota cities are ranked among the best places to live in the US
A new ranking places three Minnesota cities among the best places to live in the country.
Police: Teen arrested in shooting that killed Wisconsin boy, injured 5
Milwaukee police say a 15-year-old boy has been arrested in connection with a shooting that killed another boy of the same age and left five young women injured.
Man guilty of killing Kenosha man whose body never found
A jury has convicted a man of homicide, hiding a corpse and stalking in the death of a romantic rival whose body has never been found.
Politics
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Senate mulls pdated paid family, medical leave bill that would offer 20 weeks
The updated Senate plan offers 20 weeks paid time long-term needs -- caring for a loved one who's got dealing with cancer or bonding with a newborn post-pregnancy.
Minnesota House set to debate and pass "trans refuge" legislation
"We have a responsibility to create more space for our community to live their fullest, authentic lives without fear of violence, rejection, abuse or political attack," said Rep. Leigh Finke.
Some Minnesotans still skeptical of potential TikTok ban
A new CBS News poll found that 56% of respondents do believe TikTok's ties to China pose a national security risk and that 61% favor a U.S. ban on the app.
Minnesota officials promote fight against "forever chemicals"
Minnesota pollution and health officials made the case at the State Capitol on Thursday for legislation to restrict nonessential uses of "forever chemicals" known as PFAS, and for the $45.6 million that Gov. Tim Walz has requested in his budget to prevent, manage and clean up the ubiquitous compounds.
Wisconsin Supreme Court candidate OK with Jan. 6 participant
The Republican-backed candidate for Wisconsin Supreme Court said Thursday that he had no problem with someone who was on the U.S. Capitol grounds during the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection campaigning for him across the state in the waning days of the high stakes race, calling his work "invaluable."
Consumer News
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Twins have most affordable home opener in MLB, study says
The study by MIBets.com looked at the cost of available ticket prices, nearby parking and beer and hot dog prices when ranking teams.
"Where are people supposed to go?": Walmart closure exposes growing gaps in north metro
The closure comes shortly after Aldi closed in nearby north Minneapolis last month and as a record number of Minnesotans are in need of help from food shelves.
Legislature contemplates rebates for installing heat pumps as system gains popularity
Americans bought more heat pumps last year than gas furnaces. And Minnesota lawmakers want to provide financial incentives to get you to ditch the gas-powered furnace and A-C unit, and make the switch.
Mall of America ranks 4th among best malls to survive zombie apocalypse
If George A. Romero's 1978 horror movie classic "Dawn of the Dead" is any indication, a lot of us would likely find all we need to hunker down in the confines of a shopping mall.
Hope springs eternal at Lynde Greenhouse following autumn arson
Many see spring as a chance for a fresh start. After making a vow to rebuild Lynde Greenhouse & Nursery after a massive fire, owner Derek Lynde is now surrounded by new beginnings during the season known for them.
Crime News
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Duran Douglas Wilson-Keezer sentenced to 9 years for firing assault rifle at people, cars, buildings in northern Minnesota
Wilson-Keezer walked along County Road 39 near the Leech Lake Indian Reservation on Feb. 22, 2022 -- firing multiple rounds at "pedestrians, passing vehicles" and a community center.
Charges: Minneapolis boy, 17, fatally stabbed uncle Chad Johnson over explicit photos of his mom
A 17-year-old Minneapolis boy has been charged with murder in the 2022 stabbing death of his uncle, allegedly over explicit photos of his mother.
Hackers attack Wisconsin court system computer network
Hackers have attacked the Wisconsin court system's computer network, court officials said Thursday.
21-year-old charged with murder after human remains found in tote near Mille Lacs Lake
A 21-year-old man is facing a murder charge after construction workers found a tote of human remains on the Mille Lacs Lake shoreline Tuesday.
Man accused of aiding MOA shooting suspects dies; charges dismissed
One of the people charged with aiding an offender in a shooting at the Mall of America last summer has died, according to court documents.
Health News
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Minnesota House set to debate and pass "trans refuge" legislation
"We have a responsibility to create more space for our community to live their fullest, authentic lives without fear of violence, rejection, abuse or political attack," said Rep. Leigh Finke.
California bill would ban foods with Red Dye No. 3, other chemicals
Foods containing any of the five chemicals are currently banned in the European Union.
Walking and talking at same time gets harder once you're 55, study says
The study noted that "poor dual-task gait performance has been linked to risk of major cognitive impairment, falls, and brain health alterations in older adults."
Drug shortages are surging, ranging from IV saline to antibiotics
Almost 300 drugs had an active shortage in 2022, a Congressional report finds. The issue poses a national security risk.
More Americans taking on side hustles - but is it worth it?
More Americans are adding a little cash to their wallets by working one, two or even three side jobs. But is it worth the added stress?
Entertainment News
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Gwyneth Paltrow lawsuit: When skiers collide, who is at fault?
The case likely hinges on who the jury believes was the "downhill" skier, per legal experts.
New details revealed about 50th anniversary celebration "The Young and the Restless"
The cast of daytimes #1 drama looks back in brand new footage, Paramount+ celebrates the series' legacy, and a sneak peek at the upcoming anniversary storyline is revealed.
With Blockbuster website active, fans speculate on comeback
The antiquated, but still beloved, movie rental retailer has a live website – even though the company was bought by DISH in 2011 and ceased most of its operations in 2014. What is going on with the company now?
Rapper Tekashi 6ix9ine injured in beating at Florida LA Fitness
The rapper's injuries were not life-threatening, police said.
Mall of America ranks 4th among best malls to survive zombie apocalypse
If George A. Romero's 1978 horror movie classic "Dawn of the Dead" is any indication, a lot of us would likely find all we need to hunker down in the confines of a shopping mall.
Sports News
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NHL team won't wear Pride jerseys, citing new Russian law
A National Hockey League team with a Russian player has decided against wearing special warmup jerseys to commemorate Pride night, citing an anti-gay Kremlin law that could imperil Russian athletes when they return home.
NCAA Tournament schedule: dates, times, and channels for Sweet 16 and Elite 8
Here's the complete schedule, game times, livestream links and TV info for the Sweet 16 and Elite 8 this weekend.
Twins Home Opener: New scoreboard, uniform refresh, and Jam & Lewis to throw 1st pitch
The Minnesota Twins have unveiled the full plans for the 2023 Home Opener, and there will be plenty of brand newness to behold when the words "play ball" are uttered for the first time this season.
Twins have most affordable home opener in MLB, study says
The study by MIBets.com looked at the cost of available ticket prices, nearby parking and beer and hot dog prices when ranking teams.
Towns scores 22 in return as Timberwolves rally past Hawks
Karl-Anthony Towns scored 22 points in his long-awaited return from a strained right calf and the Minnesota Timberwolves rallied to beat the Atlanta Hawks 125-124.
Talking Points
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Talking Points: Protecting yourself from cyber security threats
In the past few weeks, the information of Minneapolis Public schools stolen by a hacker and put on the dark web. If it can happen here, can it happen anywhere? Esme Murphy dives into the origin of cyber security threats and discovers tips to keep your information safe.
Talking Points: Protecting yourself from cyber security threats (part 2)
In the past few weeks, Minneapolis Public School data has been stolen by a hacker and put on the dark web. If it can happen here, can it happen anywhere? Locally, 38 law enforcement agencies seek the assistance of Computer Forensic Services to investigate and solve cyber crimes. Murphy spoke with their Chief Technical Officer and former member of the U.S. Secret Service Electronic Crimes Task Force about the "dark web" and the Minneapolis Public Schools' response to the data breach.
Talking Points: Protecting yourself from cyber security threats (part 3)
In the past few weeks, Minneapolis Public School data has been stolen by a hacker and put on the dark web. If it can happen here, can it happen anywhere? For decades, listeners could count on WCCO's Tech Talk anchor Doug Swinhart to answers their computer questions. Swinhart shared tips to recognize phishing scams and how to browse the web with common sense.
Talking Points: Protecting yourself from cyber security threats (part 1)
In the past few weeks, the information of Minneapolis Public schools stolen by a hacker and put on the dark web. If it can happen here, can it happen anywhere? Esme Murphy spoke with Supervisory Special Agent Jacob Iverson about the FBI's investigation of domestic and foreign cyber threats to our information and infrastructure.
Talking Points: Nurses say new legislation could help solve staffing shortage
There have been concerns about nursing staffing levels at local hospitals for years. Esme Murphy takes a look at a piece of legislation at the Capitol that nurses say would make a big difference.
Finding Minnesota
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Son carries on late father's record-setting 100K hat collection
It took Bucky years to amass his collection. John Deere caps from Hawaii and Alaska are included, plus all the Canadian provinces and a variety of other countries. The entire cap collection got Bucky in the Guinness Book of World Records two different times.
The musical mission behind a Fergus Falls' abandoned hospital
The treatment center closed for good in 2007, but a few years ago it found an entirely new purpose, at least in the summer.
Raymond man's wooden models are getting worldwide attention
They are works of art made in a small town, held together by simple wood glue. Yet, they're starting to get worldwide attention.
One Minnesota town's twist on bowling may be right up your alley
You could head to your local bowling alley for a few frames and some fun, but why do that when you can bowl on a frozen lake in the wind and snow?
Wabasha set to celebrate 30th anniversary of "Grumpy Old Men"
Wabasha is a city known for the Mississippi River, its eagle population, and a certain cantankerous movie.
Good Question
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What is the importance of a handshake? Does it still hold the same weight as it used to?
Several years into the COVID-19 pandemic, a strong and symbolic form of greeting people is making a slow comeback.
Student-athletes are taking advantage of NIL, but what is it?
If you've been watching any March Madness games, there's a good chance a lot of the players you're seeing have some kind of NIL deal.
Do frozen foods have as much nutritional value as fresh foods?
March isn't just a month to celebrate basketball. You might not realize it is also Frozen Food Month. Known for being cheaper and lasting longer, but is it as healthy as fresh food? Good question.
What exactly is a forecast model?
We know our weather can be unpredictable, no matter the season. That's why meteorologists rely on different forecast models to help us prepare.
When did March lose the distinction of snowiest month? And which month has taken the title?
A month that is notorious for heavy snowstorms will potentially add to its lore this week.
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65th Grammy Awards - Red Carpet
The Grammys will be broadcast live from Los Angeles, starting at 8 p.m. ET Sunday, on CBS television stations and will stream live and on-demand on Paramount+.
Notable Deaths in 2023
A look back at the esteemed personalities who've left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.
NEXT Weather: Snowstorms of 2022-2023
It's gonna be a long winter, but thanks to WCCO viewers' photo submissions, it's also going to be a pretty one!
Peeking into the homes of Santa Claus, his elves
We've seen it depicted in countless Christmas movies, but now we're getting an inside look at where Santa and his elves live.
The 25 greatest movies ever
Every 10 years, the British film magazine Sight & Sound invites critics to submit lists of their top 10 movies of all time. These are the results of their poll for 2022.
Weather
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Weather
NEXT Weather: 5 p.m. report
We'll be heading back into the 40s on Friday, Meteorologist Chris Shaffer says.
What is Next Weather?
In Minnesota, weather can be all over the place. Here at WCCO, we want to give you what you need to prepare for what's happening next.
NEXT Weather: 4 p.m. weather report
WCCO meteorologist Mike Augustyniak says that we've got an outside shot at a 50-degree day just before the month's end, but don't get too excited.
NOAA still cautions potential for "major" spring flooding along Mississippi River
According to the NOAA, the flood potential for this segment of the river is "well above normal" and flood risk numbers indicate flooding could be the worst seen in over 20 years in portions of the Mississippi.
NEXT Weather: Noon weather report
WCCO meteorologist Joseph Dames says temperatures will peak in the the low to mid 30s for much of the state Thursday.
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NEXT Weather: 5 p.m. report
We'll be heading back into the 40s on Friday, Meteorologist Chris Shaffer says.
WWII veteran Gordy Kirk turns 100 years old
It's not often you get to celebrate someone's 100th birthday, let alone honor a person who has given as much to the community as Gordy Kirk.
Lawmakers grill CEO of TikTok at U.S. Capitol
Rep. Angie Craig was among those posing questions to the CEO of TikTok on Thursday as some call for banning the app.
Bill at state capitol aims to protect health care for trans Minnesotans
The bill is intended to protect transgender patients and care providers from out-of-state legal action in states where gender-affirming care is banned or restricted.
As potential for spring flooding looms, Minnesotans prepare for rising waters
MnDOT crews were busy putting up 84 concrete barriers, each weighing 3,500 lbs along the riverfront in downtown Stillwater.