Community

Midday Update 4-27-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Tuesday, April 27, 2021

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Tuesday, April 27, 2021. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, midday update, News, weather

Sun Country Airlines Announces Flights to Fort Myers, Phoenix From Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. – On Tuesday Sun Country Airlines announced the addition of 18 new nonstop routes, including two nonstop routes from the Duluth International Airport. “With more and more people excited to resume traveling, we’re thrilled to be able to offer them the opportunity to visit these incredible vacation destinations this winter,” said Sun Country Airlines Chief Revenue Officer Grant…

St. Luke’s Seeing Rise in Middle Aged Patients Hospitalized with COVID-19

Hospitilizations Declined in February and March, but Dr. Andrew Thompson Says the Rate is Beginning to Rise Again

DULUTH, Minn. – A recent report released by the CDC shows nearly eight percent, or five million Americans have not received their second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. St. Luke’s Infectious Disease Specialist, Dr. Andrew Thompson, has mixed reaction to the new data. Thompson says while the number is somewhat cause for concern, 92 percent of adults who have received…

Morning Update 4-27-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Tuesday, April 27, 2021

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Tuesday, April 27, 2021. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, morning update, News, weather

Duluth Police Investigating Tuesday Morning Downtown Shooting

DULUTH, Minn. – Duluth Police are investigating a shooting that took place in the downtown area of Duluth Tuesday morning. According to police, officers responded to reports of a shooting around 8:00 a.m. in the location of 2nd Avenue East and 3rd Street. Authorities are still on the scene and say this is an active investigation. No additional information was…

Looking Back, Ahead Three Years After Husky Refinery Explosion Rocked Superior

Now three years to the day later officials with the Husky Refinery say rebuild is going well.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- It’s been three years to the day since the Husky Refinery exploded shaking the City Of Superior and forcing thousands to leave their homes and evacuate. Mayor Jim Paine looks back at the incident, as Husky says it’s on track for a full 2023 reopen April 26th 2018 was turned upside down when the Refinery exploded. “We were…

Duluth’s Labor Union Honor Workers Memorial Day

According to OSHA, over 5,000 people died while on the job in 2019.

DULUTH, Minn. — Members of Duluth’s Labor Union held their annual memorial breakfast and tree planting ceremony this morning. Several organizations in Duluth’s labor union community were in attendance. According to OSHA, over 5,000 people died while on the job in 2019. As workers safety continues to be a top priority in the trade, today was about honoring and remembering…

UMN Medical Student Researchers Find Long Term Effects Of Tear Gas

They recommend more regulation of tear gas usage -- and if possible, other options entirely.

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn.- Some University of Minnesota Medical School students have complied research that suggests tear gas can have long-lasting health impacts. The short-term reactions to tear gas such as breathing problems and skin and eye irritation are well-known already. So, the PHD Graduate Neuroscience students analyzed other studies on the longer-term health consequences, and summarized those findings. They found one…

Duluth International Airport to Announce New Air Service Coming to Region Tuesday

DULUTH, Minn. – On Tuesday, the Duluth International Airport says they will hold a press conference to announce a new air service coming to the area. The press conference will be held on Tuesday at 11:00 a.m. where the Duluth International Airport executive director, vice president of the DIA Board of Directors, and representative for the new air service will…

Midday Update 4-26-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Monday, April 26, 2021

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Monday, April 26, 2021. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, midday update, News

Essentia Vision Northland Project 35 Percent Complete, On Track for 2023 Opening

The $900 Million Project Remains On Budget as Crews Work to Enclose the New Inpatient, Outpatient Facilities

DULUTH, Minn. – A multi-million dollar development is changing the skyline of Duluth’s downtown district. Ground broke on Essentia’s Vision Northland Project in 2019, and if you’ve recently driven by, you’ve noticed a large amount of progress has been made on the exterior of the new structure. What started as a vision in 2017 is now becoming an impressive reality….

Bid Now! Rotary Club of Superior Hosting Virtual Fundraiser

The Craft Beer & Wine Fundraising Event is Happening April 26 - May 2

SUPERIOR, Wis. – The Rotary Club of Superior is hosting its 9th annual “Craft Beer and Wine Event” with a twist in 2021. This year, for the health and well-being of supporters, the Rotary Club will be offering an online-only auction via Bidding Owl throughout the week of April 26 – May 2. Proceeds from this year’s online auction will…

Morning Update 4-26-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Monday, April 26, 2021

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Monday, April 26, 2021. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, morning update, weather

Wisconsin DNR: More Fishing Tournaments Using Immediate Release

In catch-hold-release tournaments, anglers transport fish to weigh-in areas, where they're released but not in the areas where they're caught.

MADISON, Wis. (AP) – Wisconsin fishery officials say more tournaments are abandoning their traditional catch-hold-release formats. The Department of Natural Resources says the number of bass and walleye tournaments that have eschewed the traditional catch-hold-release format for catch-photo-release rules has increased from an average of six annually between 2010 and 2015 to more than 30 per year from 2015 to…

Duluth P.D, Mayor Talk Transparency

Back in March, the Duluth chapter of the NAACP called for more engagement between police and the public. 

DULUTH, Minn. — On Friday, city leaders provided an update on how area law enforcement will provide more transparency in several areas of their department. Back in March, the Duluth chapter of the NAACP called for more engagement between police and the public. They asked for bi-annual reports on traffic stops, use of force, and arrest rates more proportionate to…

Most of Duluth’s Natural Surface Trails Reopen After Closing Due to Wet Conditions

City staff ask trail users to observe proper trail etiquette and stewardship by respecting individual trail closures and avoiding any wet/muddy trails.

DULUTH, Minn.- The majority of natural surface trails in Duluth are now open and ready for public use, according to the City’s Parks and Recreation Division. City staff ask trail users to observe proper trail etiquette and stewardship by respecting individual trail closures and avoiding any wet/muddy trails. If you notice that you are leaving a footprint or bicycle tire…

Docks Back at Minnesota Slip

The docks will stay in the slip until early October.

DULUTH, Minn. – Docks began going back into the Minnesota Slip this morning. About ten docks with twenty boat spaces went in within four hours. The other half of the marina being owned by Grandma’s Corporation. Managers of the marina say, Because of the warmer temps, the docks were able to be placed back into the slip a week earlier…

More Rental Assistance Available for Minnesotans Impacted by Pandemic

This is all through the help of the federal Covid-19 emergency rental assistance program.

DULUTH, Minn. — Minnesotans now have more help for rental assistance. Tenants who have been impacted by the pandemic financially and haven’t been able to pay rent dating back to March of last year will have more assistance catching up with their payments. This is all through the help of the federal Covid-19 emergency rental assistance program. Since applications opened…

Cooking Connection: Cozy Hen’s Lemon Cheesecake

DULUTH, Minn.- In this week’s Cooking Connection, Meteorologist Ken Slama knows what to do when life gives him lemons — whip up a lemon cheesecake with the owner of The Cozy Hen cheesecakes! Categories: Business, Community, Cooking Connection, Minnesota, News, News – Latest News Tags: cheesecake, Cozy Hen, Heather Birong, lemon cheesecake

National Volunteer Week: St. Luke’s Happy To Welcome Back Volunteers

DULUTH, Minn. – It’s National Volunteer Week, and one healthcare clinic is happy it has its volunteers back in action. St. Luke’s Hospital had to say goodbye to its volunteers who work in the hospital for almost a year after the pandemic hit, but now they’re allowed to return. Volunteers are placed in areas they may want to work. They…

Kirby Student Board Hosts ‘Kirby Commencement’

Students had the opportunity to take photos with their dean, professors, college banners, and solo photos with their diploma jackets.

DULUTH, Minn. – For the second year in a row, the commencement at the University of Minnesota Duluth will be virtual. Students have the opportunity to take photos with their dean, professors, college banners, and solo photos with their diploma jackets. Organizers say, adding more end of the year activities for students gives them a little more of an experience…

Superior Mask Mandate Extended Through June 1

SUPERIOR, Wis. – The Superior City Council voted Tuesday to extend Superior’s emergency declaration through June 1, which once again extends the citywide mask mandate. Earlier this year, Superior’s mask mandate was reinstated until April 30 when Evers’ statewide mask mandate was overturned by the Wisconsin Supreme Court. The declaration can help in getting funding for their pandemic efforts. Categories:…

Mayor Larson, Police Chief Tusken, Human Rights Office Crawford Release Statements on the Chauvin Verdict

DULUTH, Minn. – Duluth Mayor Emily Larson, Police Chief Mike Tusken, and Human Rights Officer Carl Crawford have each released statements following the verdict of the Chauvin trial and the next steps for the community. You can read each statement in full below: Statement from Mayor Emily Larson: “Yesterday, Carl (Crawford) and I listened to the verdict come in together….

‘The Back Alley’ Provides Surfing Goods for Growing Northland Sport

Within the last two years, the back alley was made a reality.

DULUTH, Minn. — “Just in the last five years it’s really starting to spike up,” Back Alley Owner, Jerome Fischer says. That growth led Jerome Fischer and his family to purchase this building in Lincoln Park “For the last eight to ten years we’ve kind of been doing pop-ups and different events for the community,” Fischer says. Within the last…

Rambler Food Truck Reopens for Season

Staff say the warmer months couldn’t have come soon enough as they love seeing all their customers once again.

DULUTH, Minn.-The Rambler food truck has opened for its 2021 season. The truck was spotted outside the Rose Garden earlier Tuesday where they dish up everything from teriyaki pulled pork to Mahi tacos. Staff say the warmer months couldn’t have come soon enough as they love seeing all their customers once again. “We’re all super excited for the season,” said…

Additional Changes Announced for Grandma’s Marathon Weekend

If runners decide to opt out, they will have until May 1st to sell their bib or switch to the virtual option by June 1st.

DULUTH, Minn. – Tuesday, Grandma’s Marathon released more details about what race weekend will look like. In addition to the half capacity limits, races will have a rolling start and large crowds are strongly discouraged, which cancels the “Rock the Big Top” post-race celebration. Details on social distancing guidelines and health screenings were also announced, but the plan still needs…

Essentia Vision Northland Project 35 Percent Complete, On Track For 2023 Opening

The $900 Million Project Remains On Budget as Crews Work to Enclose the New Inpatient, Outpatient Facilities

DULUTH, Minn. – A multi-million dollar development is changing the skyline of Duluth’s downtown district. Ground broke on Essentia’s Vision Northland Project in 2019, and if you’ve recently driven by, you’ve noticed a large amount of progress has been made on the exterior of the new structure. What started as a vision in 2017 is now becoming an impressive reality….

Duluth ‘Black Lives Matter’ Protesters March Celebrating Chauvin Guilty Verdict

“I didn't really expect us to come out on top based on our past,” said Veronica Davis, one of the organizers.

DULUTH, Minn.- For perhaps the first time in the year since George Floyd was killed, a Black Lives Matter protest through the streets of Duluth was filled with hope and celebration, after the jury convicted Derek Chauvin of murdering Floyd Tuesday. “I didn’t really expect us to come out on top based on our past,” said Veronica Davis, one of…

St. Luke’s Sees Increase in Vaccine Availability

St. Luke's currently has 850 vaccines available for eligible recipients.

DULUTH, Minn. — St. Luke’s now has a large number of Covid-19 vaccine appointments available. St. Luke’s currently has 850 vaccines available for eligible recipients. Doctors say, 58% of St. Louis County members have received at least one dose of the vaccine, but they are hoping that number can increase in the coming days. “We’re just trying to get as…

Grandma’s Marathon Announces Details for 2021 Race Plan, ‘Rock The Big Top’ Canceled

DULUTH, Minn. – On Tuesday Grandma’s Marathon announced several changes to the upcoming 2021 race weekend due to ongoing public health safety concerns of the COVID-19 pandemic. Some of the upcoming changes include: Reduced Field Sizes – 50% In-Person Capacity Operational Changes – Rolling Start, Social Distancing & PPE, Health Screenings Modified Ancillary Events – Packet Pickup, Expo, Spaghetti Dinner…

Superior Police May Add New Position to Department

Officers hope that this new position will help provide more support to the people of Superior.

SUPERIOR, Wis.–  Superior Police could soon announce a new position opening with the department. The coordinated response specialist would assist the department responding to calls regarding chronic homelessness, drug addiction, and mental health related issues in the community. Officers hope that this new position will help provide more support to the people of Superior. “Case management is one of the…

UW-Superior Students Giving Away Reusable Straws

Organizers say, students wanted to participate in community events like these and also help the environment.

SUPERIOR, Wisc. — The UW-Superior student organization is doing their part to keep the campus green. On Monday, students handed out rubber, bamboo, and steel reusable straws to help promote Earth Week. Organizers say, students wanted to participate in community events like these and also help the environment. “We decided to come up with lots of eco-friendly ways to celebrate…

Routine Bridge, Ramp Closures Begin in Duluth This Week

DULUTH, Minn. – Motorists will encounter routine closures beginning today for bridge and ramp inspections throughout Duluth. Additionally, a temporary road closure on Lower Michigan Street started today and will last until October, as part of the Twin Ports Interchange project. Monday, April 19 Lower Michigan Street will close from near 15th Avenue West to 23rd Avenue West. This closure…

2nd Street Construction Project to Begin Next Week

DULUTH, Minn. – The City of Duluth says a portion of 2nd Street will be undergoing construction beginning next week. The reconstruction is to accommodate for updated utilities, storm sewer, and updated heating system. The portions of the reconstruction will be between 4th Avenue East and 9th Avenue East with varying start and completion times. On Monday, Second Street from…

Engwall Flowers Celebrates New Location in Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. – Engwall Flowers is set to open a new Duluth location this week. According to a recent press release, to celebrate the new location at 4940 Matterhorn Drive Engwall’s has planned a week of specials and events. A ribbon-cutting ceremony is scheduled for 2:00 p.m. Thursday and special gifts will be given to the first 100 store visitors….

‘Federal Biscay’ First Saltie of Season to Arrive in Twin Ports

According to the City of Duluth, this Saltie is carrying 21,000 tons of cement from Turkey.

DULUTH, Minn.- The first Saltie of the season has arrived in the Duluth Superior port. The Federal Biscay pulled into Canal Park Sunday evening, blowing its horn to an excited crowd gathered to watch it slowly pull through the Aerial Lift Bridge. According to the City of Duluth, this Saltie is carrying 21,000 tons of cement from Turkey. The cement…

Humane Society of Douglas County Hosting Virtual ‘Paws for Love’ Fundraiser

The Fundraiser Ends Sunday, April 25 at 9 p.m.

SUPERIOR, Wis. – The Humane Society of Douglas County Paws for Love fundraising event is taking place virtually in 2021. The auction event is happening now, and will run through Sunday, April 25 at 9 p.m. Tickets are free in 2021. Organizers say they will still have a wonderful silent auction and heartwarming informational videos. Guests will have nine full…

Pajama Party Tradition Continues at Copasetic Lounge

Awards were given out at the end of the day to the top two males and females with the best original pajamas.

DULUTH, Minn.– If you didn’t feel like getting out of your pajamas this morning, you weren’t alone. After a 6 year break, the Copasetic Lounge on Central Entrance in Duluth brought back their PJ Party event. There was a DJ inside the bar or customers could play games out on the patio. All while sipping on free mimosas. Staff said…

Duluth Running Co.’s Tent Sale Returns For Fitger’s 5K Race

The Tent Sale will continue Sunday starting at 10 a.m.

DULUTH, Minn.– As the Fitger’s 5K got back on course, so did Duluth Running Company’s chance to showcase some discounted running and walking shoes, apparel, and other running accessories outside for runners and spectators. They brought the Tent Sale on East Superior Street back after not taking place last year due to the pandemic. The store’s owner says it’s great…

Fitger’s 5K Returns to Biggest Race Turnout During Pandemic

Race officials say high turnout for the Fitger's 5K has them feeling good about the full Grandma's Marathon just two months away.

DULUTH, Minn.– The 32nd Annual Fitger’s 5K here in Duluth returned to its normal date as northlander’s turned out for Grandma’s biggest race since the pandemic. The Fitger’s 5K race took place Saturday afternoon, where 775 participants ran through downtown. That’s the largest turnout for a grandma’s race this year. “That’s exciting because it means that some of the restrictions…

GND Rec Area Vandalized

The estimated repairs will take several weeks and the sport court will remain closed until they are completed.

DULUTH, Minn. —  The Gary New Duluth Rec Center is in its final stages of construction, but on Thursday, organizers noticed several thousand dollars worth of damages to the property. Vandalism and graffiti can be seen on the skate park, one of the glass basketball hoop backboards was shattered, and one of the excavators from the construction company was also…

Duluth Schools Cancel Prom Due to Covid-19 Concerns

They cited lingering Covid-19 concerns with spring break on the horizon, saying there would be too much of a risk for a potential spread. 

DULUTH, Minn. – – The Duluth school district has cancelled prom for 2021. The decision was made after the district consulted with the Minnesota Department of Health, student leaders and other administrators. They cited lingering COVID-19 concerns with spring break on the horizon, saying there would be too much of a risk for a potential spread. “There was a preference…

Midday Update 4-16-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Friday, April 16, 2021

FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama provide a look at news and weather making headlines Friday, April 16, 2021. Have a great day! Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, midday update, News, weather

Crazy for Carnitas? Bucktales Cantina and Grill Specializes in the Authentic Mexican Dish

Cooking Connection: Carnitas with Bucktales Cantina and Grill

SUPERIOR, Wis. – This week’s Cooking Connection takes you to Bucktales Cantina and Grill located south of Superior along Highway 35. Owner Dee Morales specializes in whipping up authentic Mexican dishes, but the cantina also offers a wide variety of other foods such as burgers, gyros, appetizers and more. In this week’s segment, Morales prepares his delicious, mouthwatering carnitas. The…

Morning Update 4-16-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Friday, April 16, 2021

FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama provide a look at news and weather making headlines Friday, April 16, 2021. Have a great day! Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, morning update, News, weather

Youth Aged 16-18 Encouraged to Sign Up for COVID-19 Vaccination in Itasca County

A Vaccination Clinic Will Take Place Saturday, April 24 from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. in Grand Rapids

GRAND RAPIDS, Minn. – Even with the pause of Johnson & Johnson’s COVID vaccine, the rollout continues to be strong in Itasca County. Public health leaders say only 6.6 percent of the vaccines delivered to Minnesota have been from Johnson & Johnson. As of Thursday, April 15, 78 percent of the 65-plus population in Itasca County has been vaccinated while…

Midday Update 4-15-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Thursday, April 15, 2021

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Thursday, April 15, 2021.s Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, midday update, News, weather

Essentia Family Medicine Physician Talks Vaccine Safety, Efficacy & Importance

Dr. James Conniff with Essentia Health Encourages Residents to get the COVID-19 Vaccination

DULUTH, Minn. – With the pause of the Johnson & Johnson single-dose COVID-19 vaccine, many are left wondering what comes next regarding safety and efficacy. Dr. James Conniff is a family medicine physician with Essentia Health in Duluth. Conniff says the pause is reassuring as the FDA takes a closer look into the problem. The CDC says six women between…