Rieta Buttaro

FALCON HEIGHTS, Minn. — Growing a record pumpkin isn’t for everyone, but Joe Morgan found out it is for him. He grew a pumpkin that weighed 1,808.5 pounds, obliterating the Minnesota State Fair’s old record of 1,676.5 pounds set in 2022. Morgan, who is a union insulator, didn’t start out as a master gardener. “COVID hit and I always wanted to grow a big pumpkin,” said Morgan. So, he decided to give it a go.

SAVAGE, Minn. — Winter's approach brings an end to many things in the Upper Midwest, including shipping on the Minnesota and Mississippi Rivers. Our trusty drone takes us over Shakopee and the Minnesota River, where Minnesota-based Cargill was scrambling this week to get all remaining product on the water, over to the Mississippi, and headed south. Barges are loaded, grouped and then shepherded down the river by a tow boat.

MINNEAPOLIS — Minnesotans are fortunate indeed, as the varied landscape of our state allows residents to find outdoor adventure wherever they are. Minneapolis' chain of lakes is a perfect example. Nestled in the shadow of the city skyline, Bde Maka Ska, Harriet and Lake of the Isles provide an outlet for paddlers, sailors, anglers, walkers and joggers, and those who just like to grab a bench and gaze upon sparkling water.