Community

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…

Northland Newborns 4-15-21

FOX 21 and Essentia Health Team Up to Showcase Newborn Bundles of Joy Across the Northland

Every Thursday morning on FOX 21 Local News from 7 – 9 a.m., we’re teaming up with Essentia Health to showcase Northland Newborns. Calling all proud parents, grandparents, aunts, and uncles! Email a picture and date of birth to fox21morningcrew@kqdsfox21.tv for a chance to see your little one on the big screen. Click here for more information.  Categories: Community, Northland…

Morning 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. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, morning update, News, weather

Minnesota Point Beach Nourishment Project Moves Forward

A Survey of the Project will Begin by Early May With Cleanup Finished by Sept., 2021

DULUTH, Minn.-Earlier today the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency gave an update on this year’s dredging project on Park Point. They talked about the risks involved with placing man made materials on Park Point after metal shards were found along the beach from a previous dredging. The MPCA says it is making sure this…

Restaurant Leaders Optimistic About Summer Season

Eat Downtown Duluth Week will start up on April 19th.

DULUTH, Minn. — Members of the area restaurant community came together Wednesday for a Zoom discussion to talk about the summer season. They also spoke about what things worked for them during the pandemic. Some of the changes each restaurant made, like the addition of curbside pickup, may even continue to stay at certain establishments. The panel members are optimistic…

City to Postpone Vehicle Access to Skyline Parkway

DULUTH, Minn. – The City of Duluth announced on Wednesday that due to an influx in rain this past week it is postponing vehicular access to certain sections of Skyline Parkway until May 31. The affected sections include: East Skyline Parkway to Maxwell Road intersection Maxwell Road from Oak Street to the intersection of Seven Bridges Road Seven Bridges Road…

Midday Update 4-14-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Wednesday, April 14, 2021

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Wednesday, April 14, 2021. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, midday update, News, weather

Tips to Avoid Catastrophe During National Dog Bite Prevention Week

Dogs Need Help Overcoming the Effects of the Past Year of Social Isolation, Added Stress

DULUTH, Minn. – This week, April 11-17, is National Dog Bite Prevention Week, and this year there are more reasons than ever to learn about preventing dog bites. From high-profile “nipping incidents” in the news, to the realization that there may be millions of dogs and puppies in new homes since the beginning of the pandemic. Over the past thirteen…

Morning Update 4-14-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Wednesday, April 14, 2021

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Wednesday, April 14, 2021. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, morning update, News, weather

Human Rights Commission Speaks Out ‘In Light of Continued Police Violence’ Ahead of Listening Session

That listening session will take place via zoom Wednesday at 6 p.m.

DULUTH, Minn.- The City Of Duluth’s Human Rights Commission hosted press conference Tuesday in light of recent instances of fatal police interactions with people of color. “We are here to say that Daunte Wright didn’t deserve to die,” said Bettina Keppers, Chair of the Commission. The Commission says the intent of the press conference was to acknowledge systemic violence, invite…

Duluth East Student In Custody After Ammunition Found in Locker, 90-Minute Lockdown

Duluth East went into lockdown Tuesday morning after a loaded magazine with 9 mm ammunition was discovered in a student's locker.

DULUTH, Minn.- Authorities said the situation at Duluth East High School is safe and the lockdown has been lifted after ammunition was found Tuesday morning in a student’s locker. “I was scared because most of my friends are in that building right now and I don’t know how they’re doing,” Junior Katie Higgins said. Duluth East went into lockdown Tuesday…

Duluth’s Sustainability Officer Ready To Tackle City Council’s ‘Climate Emergency’ Declaration

DULUTH, Minn. – Duluth’s sustainability officer, Mindy Granley, is applauding the city council’s declaration of a “climate emergency” and says she’s ready to take Duluth to the next level to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions across the city. Granley says the city will be creating an initial five-year “climate action plan,” which will be presented to the council by the…

Busy Barker’s Island Marina Helps Anglers, Boaters Prepare for Summer Season

Barker's Island Marina is Seeing an Influx of Business as Boaters Prepare to Hit the Water

SUPERIOR, Wis. – The Minnesota fishing opener casts off on Saturday, May 15th this year, with the Wisconsin opener on May 1st. Aside from inland fishing, owners of big boats are also preparing for the warmer months ahead, and a new season on the big lake. Currently, the environment at Barker’s Island Marina is filled with excitement as the weather…

Vaccine Clinic Opens at Wessman Arena

The clinic is located on the UW-Superior campus at Wessman arena in partnership with AMI Healthcare.

SUPERIOR, Wisc.-A new community vaccination clinic has opened in Superior. It’s the first of its kind in Northwest Wisconsin. The clinic is located on the UW-Superior campus at Wessman Arena in partnership with AMI Healthcare. This arena has the capacity to vaccinate 500 people per day. “It is safe. People may be hesitant to be around others. But you’re still…

UPDATE: Duluth East High School Lockdown Lifted

DULUTH, Minn. – Just before 1:00 p.m. the lockdown at Duluth East High School has been lifted and they are continuing with the school day. DULUTH, Minn. – Duluth East high school went into lockdown Tuesday morning after school staff found ammunition in a student’s locker. According to Duluth Superintendent John Magas, police were contacted around 11:30 a.m. and the…

Duluth East in Lockdown After Ammunition Found in Student’s Locker

DULUTH, Minn. – Duluth East high school went into lockdown Tuesday morning after school staff found ammunition in a student’s locker. According to Duluth Superintendent John Magas, police were contacted around 11:30 a.m. and the student was taken into custody. The school and students are safe, however, the school is remaining in lockdown to allow for an investigation to be…