Dancing into the holidays: ‘The Nutcracker’ dazzles at Minnesota Ballet Theatre
The magic of the holidays twirls back onto the stage as the Minnesota Ballet Theatre presents its dazzling production of “The Nutcracker,” running December 12–14. Featuring stunning choreography, elegant costumes, and the timeless Tchaikovsky score, this holiday classic stars guest artist Andrew Lester alongside talented student performer Carolina Miller. First premiering in Russia in 1892, “The Nutcracker” continues to enchant audiences over a century later. Don’t miss this beloved tradition—tickets are available now at mnballettheatre.org.
It’s turkey time: Minnesota proud as the nation’s turkey capital
It’s turkey time, and no state does it better than Minnesota — the proud turkey capital of the U.S. Producing an impressive 37 to 40 million birds each year, Minnesota’s turkey farmers play a huge role in feeding holiday tables nationwide. But how did the industry fare after this year’s bout with bird flu, and what makes Minnesota-grown turkeys stand out? MN Turkey Growers Association Program Director Peter Scharpe joins to share insights on the state’s resilient producers and how you can support local brands like Jennie-O, Northern Pride Inc., Turkey Valley Farms, and Ferndale Market. Learn more at minnesotaturkey.com and follow @minnesotaturkey on Instagram and Discover Minnesota Turkey on Facebook.
Wild ride: Minnesota aims to storm past 13-5 Hurricanes
The Minnesota Wild are heating up at just the right time, riding a 6-2 run in November and boasting five straight games allowing two goals or fewer. Tonight, they’ll put that defensive surge to the test against the powerhouse Carolina Hurricanes, who enter with a 13-5 record. With momentum building and confidence growing, the Wild look to keep their hot streak alive and prove they can hang with one of the NHL’s elite. Co-host of the Bardown Beauties Podcast, Jessi Pierce, joins to break down what’s driving the turnaround and what to expect in this red-hot matchup.
House votes to release Epstein files, navigating political scandal & more: Nov. 18, 2025
Today’s episode of The Afternoon Shift with Adam Llorens and Maxx Fuller dives into the latest news on the House vote to release the Epstein files, discuss the clash between protesters and federal agents in St. Paul, and more.
Should wolves stay protected? Expert weighs in.
Police video from Ely, Minnesota, captures a rare sight — gray wolves trotting through the heart of town. The footage has reignited fierce debate over whether the species should remain protected under the Endangered Species Act. Critics argue that wolf populations have rebounded enough to warrant state management, while conservationists warn that removing protections could undo decades of recovery efforts. Krista Woerheide, Interpretive Center Director at the International Wolf Center, explains more about wolves and their protected status.
Federal operation in St. Paul leads to protest and injuries: A reporter’s account from the scene
Federal agents from the FBI, ICE, DEA, and HSI conducted an operation at the Bro-Tex headquarters in St. Paul on Tuesday, serving a court-authorized search warrant that quickly drew hundreds of protesters. Chemical agents were deployed as tensions rose outside the facility, leaving multiple people injured. Pioneer Press reporter Frederick Melo was on the ground as the raid unfolded, witnessing the clashes between federal officers and demonstrators.
Former presidential advisor on handling political scandal as Epstein files dominate headlines
A former presidential advisor Lanny J. Davis shares insight into how political figures navigate scandal and public fallout. Drawing on firsthand experience from inside the White House, the advisor discusses strategies for crisis management and what the latest revelations could mean for political accountability.
Vikings fall short against Bears, Minnesota local back from Climate Summit, how recalls work, & more: Nov 17 2025
Today’s episode of The Afternoon Shift with Adam Llorens and Maxx Fuller dives into the Vikings loss to the Bears, the COP30 Climate Summit, the ins-and-outs of recalls, and much more!
Botulism, listeria, and recalls: How recalls work
Recent outbreaks of botulism and listeria have triggered a wave of nationwide recalls, raising urgent questions about how companies manage — and survive — food safety crises. Chris Harvey, senior vice president of client services at Sedgwick and an expert in recall management, offers an inside look at how recalls work from both the company and consumer perspectives.
Community, comedy, and culture shine in New Native Theatre’s 16th anniversary season
New Native Theatre celebrates its 16th anniversary season with “Growing the Tradition,” a vibrant showcase of Indigenous storytelling filled with heart, humor, and community spirit. Led by award-winning playwright and artistic director Rhiana Yazzie, the season features new works like “A Christmas in Ochopee”—a hilarious holiday tale of alligators, basketball bets, and unexpected cheer—and “Fallenstar: The Watchoverers,” a Native superhero story soaring across the Midwest. With performances from talented actors including Shinaana Secody, the season honors Native voices while inviting audiences to laugh, connect, and celebrate the power of story.
St. Paul to the Amazon: Macalester professor joins global climate leaders at COP30
Macalester College professor of environmental studies Roopali Phadke represented Minnesota on the global stage at COP30, the United Nations Climate Change Conference. Held in the Amazon region of Brazil, this pivotal gathering brought together world leaders, scientists, and advocates to renew commitments on emissions reduction and climate adaptation. From St. Paul to the Amazon, Phadke contributed her expertise in community engagement and environmental policy to discussions shaping the planet’s future.
Gophers-Ducks, Vikings-Bears, St. Paul Gun Ordinance, Mayor Melvin Carter & More: Nov. 14, 2025
On today's episode of "The Afternoon Shift," Adam Llorens chats with a pro-gun advocate and St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter on St. Paul's new gun ordinance. Plus, previews of the Minnesota-Oregon and Bears-Vikings games, as well as a visit by Lauren Andrego.
Week one rematch: Vikings and Bears meet again
FOX 32 sports reporters Tina Nguyen checks in from Chicago with an early look at Sunday’s NFC North showdown between the Vikings and the Bears. From the quarterback duel to key defensive matchups Tina sets the stage for a gritty divisional battle that could shake up the standings heading into the rest of the season.
Lauren's list: What’s happening this weekend in MN
FOX 9's Lauren Andrego has the inside scoop on all the best weekend events across Minnesota — from live music and food fests to holiday markets.
Mayor Melvin Carter on St. Paul’s assault weapon ordinance
St. Paul City Council approved a new firearms ordinance aimed at restricting assault-style weapons and large-capacity magazines. While supporters say the measure is a step toward reducing gun violence, critics argue it’s unenforceable under Minnesota’s state preemption law, which limits local control over gun regulations. St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter tells us what’s behind the ordinance and what it means for the city of St. Paul. He also tells us about his experience as the mayor of St. Paul.
Gophers gear up for a big test vs No. 8 Oregon
The Minnesota Gophers face a major challenge on the road tonight against No. 8 Oregon, entering the matchup as 25.5-point underdogs. With just a few games left in the regular season, the Gophers are looking to prove they can compete with one of the nation’s top teams and finish strong. Sports reporter Tony Liebert from Bring Me The News breaks down what’s at stake, how this season stacks up for Coach Fleck’s squad, and what fans can expect from Minnesota’s remaining stretch — including key insights on recruiting momentum and upcoming Big Ten battles.
St. Paul assault weapon ban sparks legal challenge from MN Gun Owners Caucus
The Minnesota Gun Owners Caucus is suing the City of St. Paul after the City Council approved a new firearms ordinance restricting assault-style weapons. The lawsuit argues the measure violates the state’s firearms preemption law, which blocks local governments from passing their own gun regulations. Rob Doar, president of the Minnesota Gun Owners Law Center, tells us more about the lawsuit and what the ordinance means for gun-owners.
Vikings with Dawn Mitchell, medical breakthrough, Government open for business & more: Nov. 13, 2025
On today's episode of "The Afternoon Shift," Adam Llorens and Maxx Fuller are joined by Dr. Kathryn Pearson from the University of Minnesota's Department of Political Science for perspective on the conclusion of the government shutdown, the CEO of NMDP Amy Ronneberg discusses how you can be a bone marrow match for a patient who needs it most, Minnesota hockey moms drop the puck, Sandra Eskin from Stop Foodborn Illness talks about food recalls, and FOX 9's Dawn Mitchell previews Sunday's Bears-Vikings game
Food safety under the microscope: Recalls of infant formula and pasta spark urgent health warnings
A growing food safety crisis has sparked nationwide concern as the FDA expands recalls of ByHeart Whole Nutrition infant formula and multiple pasta products linked to serious health risks. The agency confirmed reports of infant botulism, a rare but potentially life-threatening illness, in connection with contaminated formula, and a separate listeria outbreak tied to ready-to-eat pasta that has left 27 people sick and six dead. Health officials are urging parents and consumers to check their kitchens immediately. Symptoms of infant botulism can include poor feeding, constipation, drooping eyelids, a weak cry, and low muscle tone. Listeriosis, caused by listeria infection, may present with fever, muscle aches, nausea, headache, and a stiff neck, and can be especially dangerous for pregnant women, newborns, and older adults. Sandra Eskin, CEO of Stop Foodborne Illness, explain more about food safety.
New research could open doors to more life-saving transplants
New research from Minnesota-based nonprofit NMDP — formerly known as Be The Match — could revolutionize the world of bone marrow and stem cell transplants. The breakthrough method shows promising results for patients using mismatched donors, potentially expanding access to life-saving treatments for thousands who struggle to find a genetic match. NMDP CEO Amy Ronneberg explains more about what this innovation means.