Local and Regional News, Friday 3/13/2026
A new survey from AAA says one in four Minnesotans plans to take a spring break vacation this year.
According to AAA, 26 percent of Minnesotans say they’ll travel for spring break in 2026, with most heading out of state, while a smaller number plan international trips. Based on AAA bookings, top destinations include Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, Las Vegas, New York, and international hotspots like Rome, Paris, Cancun, and London.
AAA says travelers are still moving ahead with plans even as gas prices rise. The group reports Minnesota’s statewide average for regular gasoline was about $3.25 a gallon on March 11th.
AAA recommends travelers build in extra time, monitor airline apps for delays, and stay flexible — especially with busy airports and changing international conditions.
For more travel tips, gas prices, and spring break planning resources, visit AAA online.
The Littlefork Fire Department is inviting the community to its annual Easter Bingo fundraiser later this month.
The event takes place Friday, March 27th at the Littlefork Community Center, with burger basket meals from 5 to 6 p.m. and bingo beginning at 6.
Secretary-treasurer Valerie Krause says admission is 20 dollars at the door, which includes two bingo cards. Organizers will play 20 games, including 10 ham bingos and 10 fifty-fifty games, plus a bake sale, meat raffles, and a grand prize raffle for a full Easter dinner.
Krause says the fundraiser helps support department needs and a scholarship for local seniors entering fields like public safety and nursing.
Families are welcome, and organizers say kids can take part too.
Excitement is building in International Falls as the 25th annual Kerry Park Old Timers Hockey Tournament returns Friday through Sunday.
Organizers say the tournament will feature five divisions — Open, 30-plus, 40-plus, 50-plus, and 60-plus — with games taking place at Bronco Arena and Kerry Park.
The weekend is more than just hockey. Organizers say it also takes major community support, from rink access and referees to local groups helping with concessions, apparel sales, and the tournament banquet.
Organizers say this year’s tournament is expected to be as big as ever, bringing players and fans back to town and giving a boost to local businesses throughout the weekend.
A community fundraiser is coming up to support students in International Falls Public Schools.
Members of Purple Pride are preparing for their annual Big Prize Bingo, with proceeds going toward school programs, activities, and classroom needs.
Crazy Terry says alumni classes have already stepped up with strong donations.
The event will take place April 2nd at the VFW, with doors opening at 4:30, ticket sales at 5:30, and bingo starting at 7.
Crazy Terry says last year’s event showed just how much community support there is for local students.
Organizers say every dollar raised goes right back into local schools, helping support student activities and classroom supplies across the district.