Santa's assistant gets new kidney with help of friend
One year ago, Dan Reed could barely walk. His kidneys were shutting down and he had little hope of getting a transplant. Now, he's well on the road to recovery.
Minnesota
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Man sentenced to 23 years in prison for role in large drug trafficking ring
In five years, Clinton Ward allegedly made millions by importing fentanyl, methamphetamine and cocaine to the Twin Cities via "an expansive net of distributors" in what officials call the most prolific drug operation in Minnesota history.
Man stabbed in Minneapolis fighting for his life
Minneapolis police are investigating after they say a man suffered "potentially life-threatening injuries" in a stabbing on Thursday morning.
Slick road conditions possible on Christmas Day in Minnesota
A NEXT Drive Alert will be in effect starting Thursday at 3 p.m. due to the potential for icy roads with possible freezing drizzle in northern and central Minnesota.
Is anything open on Christmas Day 2025? See which businesses are operating.
Most major retail stores and grocery chains are closed on Christmas Day, with some exceptions.
Hispanic families adjust Christmas celebrations amid ICE crackdown
Gama, originally from Mexico, has been operating the Pastaleria Gama bakery on Lake Street in Minneapolis for 10 years now. Her store was empty for long stretches of time on Christmas Eve, which she said has never been the case in the past.
Watch Minnesota Vikings vs. Detroit Lions on WCCO
Pregame coverage starts Friday at 3 p.m., followed by kickoff at 3:30 p.m.
Photo of Minneapolis boy snowboarding goes viral
Mickey Watkins, ever curious and never shy, grabbed a nearby tote bin lid and showed them his style of urban snowboarding. Mike Yoshida happily snapped a photo of the 11-year-old sliding down the hill.
Zelenskyy says he had "very good conversation" with U.S. envoys on Christmas
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he discussed "substantive details" of a Ukraine-Russia peace deal with President Trump's envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner on Christmas.
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Minnesota, Wisconsin schools delay starts amid messy morning weather
Several schools in Minnesota and Wisconsin are reporting delayed starts on Monday amid a messy morning commute.
Some Minnesota schools closed after winter storm blows in
Roughly a dozen schools in the state had announced they were either closed or delayed for Friday classes, following Thursday's snow and Friday's bitter cold.
Minnesota road conditions worsening amid snow, wind and dropping temps
Road conditions across Minnesota are rapidly deteriorating as a winter storm moves through the state Thursday.
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NEXT Weather: 12 p.m. report for Minnesota on Dec. 25, 2025
Meteorologist Adam Del Rosso said there's a potential for freezing drizzle and icy roads in northern and central Minnesota from Thursday afternoon to Friday morning.
Minneapolis police investigate after man injured in stabbing
A man suffered "potentially life-threatening" injuries in a stabbing in Minneapolis on Thursday, according to police. No arrests have been made.
NEXT Weather: 6 a.m. report for Minnesota on Dec. 25, 2025
WCCO meteorologist Adam Del Rosso says it could drizzle in the evening on Christmas.
New non-profit in IDS Center empowers people through sewing
Keiona Cook talks about her journey at Lovely's Sewing and Arts Collective and hopes for the future.
You can volunteer at a St. Paul food bank to help give back in 2026
AJ Hilton takes a tour at Merrick Community Services and shows you how the organization is helping those in need.
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Gophers CB John Nestor is inspired by his father and Eagles' Cooper DeJean
The junior cornerback transferred to Minnesota from Iowa this spring. He was a depth defensive back and special teamer for the Hawkeyes. But this year, with a larger role, he's had a breakout season.
Lions-Vikings matchup has lost some luster, but playoffs are still possible for Detroit
The Detroit Lions and Minnesota Vikings have gone from 29 combined wins last season to just 15 this season entering their Week 17 matchup on Christmas Day.
Wild lose to Predators 3-2 in OT
Steven Stamkos scored 53 seconds into overtime to give the Nashville Predators a 3-2 victory over the Minnesota Wild.
Timberwolves beat Knicks 115-104
Anthony Edwards scored 38 points to help the Minnesota Timberwolves beat former teammate Karl-Anthony Towns for the first time and hold off the New York Knicks 115-104.
Vikings QB J.J. McCarthy will miss game vs. Lions with fractured hand
Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy has a hairline fracture in his hand and will not play on Christmas Day against the Detroit Lions, head coach Kevin O'Connell said Tuesday.
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Minnesota man creates homage to "A Charlie Brown Christmas"
On Dec. 9, 1965, "A Charlie Brown Christmas" debuted on CBS, and it became an instant classic. Lee Jenkins' home is proof that the show is still a hit six decades later.
Keller brothers' family farm near Nerstrand twinkles with lights, holiday cheer
Holiday lights are on full display across the state right now, and just south of the Twin Cities you'll find a Christmas light show that's been around for more than half a century.
Owatonna's T-38 Talon Thunderbird monument honors the Air Force
The story begins years ago when the city acquired one of the T-38 Talon Thunderbird jets from the Air Force.
Inside Minnesota's LARK Toys, a one-of-a-kind marvel
The holidays are upon us, and in the town of Kellogg, Minnesota, you'll find a toy store unlike any other.
Why Madison, Minnesota, is known as the "Lutefisk Capital of the Country"
With the holidays fast approaching, and lutefisk on the menu for many families, one Minnesota town has the distinction of being called the "Lutefisk Capital of the Country."
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After his partner died, MACV helped get this veteran's life back on track
Many people who serve in the U.S. military find it hard to ask for assistance when they've been trained to help and serve others.
Food Bank Eatery working to provide free meals to children in need
Food Bank Eatery in North Minneapolis provides free meals for children, who may have little to eat after the pause of SNAP benefits for many in the community.
How north metro firefighters are spreading holiday cheer
Firefighters are continuing a 44-year tradition that happens every year north of the Twin Cities.
Strangers help after trailer full of sled dogs turns over on icy highway
It was a scary moment in the Twin Cities over the weekend, as a trailer hauling sled dogs turned over on Interstate 494 in Minnetonka.
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Notable Deaths in 2025
A look back at the esteemed personalities who've left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.
Northern lights seen over Minnesota: Nov. 11, 2025
Minnesotans got a great view of the northern lights Tuesday night.
Astra the Polar Bear
A look at the newest addition to the polar bear population at St. Paul, Minnesota's Como Zoo.
Gallery: WCCO Community Relations
From food shelves to school programs, our team is proud to serve where it matters most.
Twin Cities News
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Man stabbed in Minneapolis fighting for his life
Minneapolis police are investigating after they say a man suffered "potentially life-threatening injuries" in a stabbing on Thursday morning.
Man sentenced to 23 years in prison for role in large drug trafficking ring
In five years, Clinton Ward allegedly made millions by importing fentanyl, methamphetamine and cocaine to the Twin Cities via "an expansive net of distributors" in what officials call the most prolific drug operation in Minnesota history.
Hundreds of houses light up for Hopkins' Christmas Eve luminaries
It's an ongoing tradition started by a resident who'd light up his block, but died in 2020.
Santa's assistant gets new kidney with help of friend
One year ago, Dan Reed could barely walk. His kidneys were shutting down and he had little hope of getting a transplant. Now, he's well on the road to recovery.
Meet Minnesota's only Spanish-language cancer support group
For two decades, the only Spanish-language cancer support group in the state has been quietly changing lives.
Greater Minnesota News
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Minnesota man creates homage to "A Charlie Brown Christmas"
On Dec. 9, 1965, "A Charlie Brown Christmas" debuted on CBS, and it became an instant classic. Lee Jenkins' home is proof that the show is still a hit six decades later.
Man sentenced to 18 years in prison for killing ex-girlfriend
Sabrina Schnoor, 25, was found dead under an Interstate 35 overpass bridge in May 2023.
Furry friends that made Minnesota headlines in 2025
From a cat that accidentally made an 8,000-mile journey in a shipping container to a tunnel made just for turtles, all kinds of animals made the headlines in Minnesota this year.
WCCO's most-read stories of 2025, month by month
There is no denying 2025 was a difficult year in Minnesota. A list of the biggest news stories is fraught with tragedy, attacks on the vulnerable and political division and dysfunction.
Minnesota, Wisconsin schools delay starts amid messy morning weather
Several schools in Minnesota and Wisconsin are reporting delayed starts on Monday amid a messy morning commute.
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Slender Man attacker sent back to institution after group home escape
A Wisconsin woman who almost killed her sixth-grade classmate to please the fictional Slender Man has been ordered back to a state psychiatric hospital after she escaped from her group home last month.
Minnesota, Wisconsin schools delay starts amid messy morning weather
Several schools in Minnesota and Wisconsin are reporting delayed starts on Monday amid a messy morning commute.
DOJ sues 3 states, including Illinois and Wisconsin, for voter data
The U.S. Justice Department has sued three states, including Illinois and Wisconsin, and D.C. for not turning over requested voter information to the Trump administration.
Advocates raise alarms after Wisconsin judge found guilty of obstruction
Defenders of a Wisconsin judge found guilty of felony obstruction for helping a Mexican immigrant evade federal officers are raising alarms about judicial independence and say they hope the conviction will be overturned on appeal.
Menards strikes settlement in lawsuit over 11% Rebate Program
The Minnesota Attorney General's Office says Menards, the Wisconsin-based home improvement retailer, has reached a $4.25 million settlement with several states to "resolve claims" of deceptive marketing practices in its popular "11% Rebate Program," and pandemic-era price gouging.
Politics
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Hispanic families adjust Christmas celebrations amid ICE crackdown
Gama, originally from Mexico, has been operating the Pastaleria Gama bakery on Lake Street in Minneapolis for 10 years now. Her store was empty for long stretches of time on Christmas Eve, which she said has never been the case in the past.
Trump promises to guard against "bad Santa" in Christmas Eve calls with kids
President Trump spent part of Christmas Eve bantering with kids, updating families on NORAD's Santa tracker and reminding one child that the big guy has a "serious appetite."
Trump suggests pulling licenses if networks are "almost 100% Negative" about him
President Trump said TV broadcast licenses should be revoked if newscasts and late-night shows are almost entirely negative about him and the GOP.
Nationwide ban on toxic chemical TCE in place, following Minnesota's lead
The nationwide ban on a toxic cancer-causing chemical, once on hold, has moved forward to protect people around the country.
Minnesota Sheriffs' Association asks DOC commissioner to step down
The Minnesota Sheriffs' Association submitted a vote of no confidence on Dec. 8, with 72 of Minnesota's 87 sheriffs voting in favor.
Consumer News
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Holiday recycling 101: Here's how to do your part
This season of giving can really do a number on our recycling systems. But we can all be part of the solution.
Why do we wrap gifts?
With the time-honored tradition of gift giving comes gift concealing.
Twin Cities holiday shoppers pack stores on Super Saturday
Twin Cities shoppers were out and about on Super Saturday, the second-busiest shopping day of the year. The day lands on the final Saturday before Christmas annually.
What to know about buy now, pay later plans during the holiday season
Buy now, pay later plans are becoming more popular for shoppers this holiday season.
Menards strikes settlement in lawsuit over 11% Rebate Program
The Minnesota Attorney General's Office says Menards, the Wisconsin-based home improvement retailer, has reached a $4.25 million settlement with several states to "resolve claims" of deceptive marketing practices in its popular "11% Rebate Program," and pandemic-era price gouging.
Crime News
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Man stabbed in Minneapolis fighting for his life
Minneapolis police are investigating after they say a man suffered "potentially life-threatening injuries" in a stabbing on Thursday morning.
Man sentenced to 23 years in prison for role in large drug trafficking ring
In five years, Clinton Ward allegedly made millions by importing fentanyl, methamphetamine and cocaine to the Twin Cities via "an expansive net of distributors" in what officials call the most prolific drug operation in Minnesota history.
Member of St. Paul copper wire theft ring pleads guilty
Court records say Eh Tha Blay, 26, pleaded guilty to one count of aiding and abetting third-degree property damage.
Man sentenced to 18 years in prison for killing ex-girlfriend
Sabrina Schnoor, 25, was found dead under an Interstate 35 overpass bridge in May 2023.
Man killed in north Minneapolis shooting, teen arrested
Minneapolis police are investigating a shooting that left one man dead early Tuesday morning on the city's north side.
Health News
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Tips for coping with the common holiday stressors
The clock is ticking to snag a few more gifts and prepare for that holiday trip to visit family. As the pressure builds, so does the stress.
What's contributing to Minnesota's high school athletic trainer shortage?
The Minnesota Athletic Trainers Association says of the middle and high schools they know of, only 49% have an athletic trainer providing some level of service.
Provider who defrauded autism program billed for millions more than state approved
From 2021 to 2025, Smart Therapy Center submitted claims totaling $31.8 million across all Minnesota Department of Human Services programs, according to that data. But the provider was only approved for a fraction of those payments.
How is Minnesota protecting high school athletes from heat-related injuries?
The family of a Minnesota Vikings player who died at training camp from heat exhaustion in 2001 is still fighting to protect others.
Minnesota flu season picking up, with triple-digit hospitalizations already
A Twin Cities metro area school shifted to e-learning after a flu outbreak impacted nearly a quarter of its students. A senior epidemiologist with the Minnesota Department of Health said flu season is "definitely picking up."
Entertainment News
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Taylor Swift donates $1 million to Feeding America, group says
Feeding America's CEO said the organization is "incredibly grateful" for Taylor Swift's large donation.
Barry Manilow reveals lung cancer diagnosis, cancels concerts due to surgery
The singer said an MRI showed a cancerous spot on one of his lungs after he recovered from a lengthy bout of bronchitis.
Watch: CBS News special celebrates Rob Reiner's life and legacy
The special features interviews with Kathy Bates, Annette Bening, Albert Brooks, Michael Douglas, Kiefer Sutherland, Jerry O'Connell and Mandy Patinkin.
The Oscars is moving to YouTube starting in 2029
The Oscars ceremony is moving to YouTube starting in 2029, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced on Wednesday.
Twin Cities' Heights Theater sold to owners of Chicago's Music Box Theatre
The nearly 100-year-old cinema will close briefly after New Year's Day and reopen on Jan. 9 with a showing of Jim Jarmusch's "Father Mother Sister Brother."