Community

Morning Update 5-29-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Friday, May 29, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a local look at news and weather making headlines Friday, May 29, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, morning update, William Seay

Minneapolis Police Station Torched Overnight Amid George Floyd Protest

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey Spoke Around 2:00 a.m. Friday Morning

AP Photo John Minchillo MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. (AP) — Cheering protesters torched a Minneapolis police station that the department was forced to abandon as three days of violent protests spread to nearby St. Paul and angry demonstrations flared across the U.S over the death of George Floyd, a handcuffed black man who pleaded for air as a white police officer kneeled…

Duluth-Superior Pride Plans To Hold First-Ever Virtual Pride Festival Amid Pandemic

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth-Superior Pride Committee is looking for feedback for a first-ever virtual pride festival this Labor Day weekend because of COVID-19 concerns. For the past 32 years, the four-day festival has attracted thousands of people to the Twin Ports from across the region to celebrate LGBTQ+ community, equality and promote a safe and fun weekend for all…

Local Organization Launches Mask Force Initiative

The artists have made over one-thousand masks since April which will be distributed to community housing organizations in Duluth. 

DULUTH, Minn. – Despite closing temporarily due the Covid-19 pandemic, Zeitgeist, and artists from the Renegade Theater got to work and began making masks. The artists have made over one-thousand masks since April which will be distributed to community housing organizations such as: Life House, AICHO and the Damiono Center. “Our goal is to give as many masks away to…

Cloquet Thrift Store Closes Permanently

The shut down is the result of the new financial climate with Covid-19. 

CLOQUET, Minn. – After more than 30 years in business, the Salvation Army thrift store in Cloquet is closing its doors for good. The shut down is the result of the new financial climate with Covid-19. The non-profit began looking at their mission of helping people with basic needs, paving the way for a larger good shelf to take the…

Midday Update 5-28-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Thursday, May 28, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a local look at news and weather making headlines Thursday, May 28, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, midday update, William Seay

Morning Update 5-28-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Thursday, May 28, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a local look at news and weather making headlines Thursday, May 28, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, morning update, William Seay

State Patrol: Sharp Increase in Speed Citations on Minnesota Roads

Since Stay-at-Home Restrictions Were Put in Place in March, 232 Drivers Have Received Speed Citations in Excess of 100mph

DULUTH, Minn. – The Minnesota State Patrol is warning of an alarming increase in speed-related citations since mid-March when COVID-19 restrictions were put in place. Since then, more than 230 drivers in the state have been pulled over for speeding in excess of 100mph. Officials believe the increase points to less traffic on roadways. Officers say a common misconception right…

Rummage Sale Hosted At The Former Wendy’s On London Road

Another rummage sale is expected next week at the former Cloquet Wendy’s.

DULUTH, Minn- Duluth may have said so long to the former Wendy’s on London Road. But some folks got a chance to take a piece of the old restaurant home with them. A rummage sale hosted at the former restaurant was used to sell off items remaining after it closed in September. Within the first hour of the rummage sale…

Fitger’s Brewhouse Prepares For Outdoor Seating

Although not required, Fitger's Brewhouse recommends all patrons also wear masks when dining at the restaurant.

DULUTH, Minn. – Fitgers Brewhouse in Duluth is one of many restaurants getting their outdoor seating prepared to welcome customers starting June 1st, under the guidelines of the safe Minnesota executive order. To prepare for the safe return of customers the restaurant staff is taking on some new safety protocols. the restaurant is expanding its patio seating across the front…

City Officials Plans Slow Reopening Of City Hall

City leaders anticipate reopening the building to staff and the public starting next week.

DULUTH, Minn – Duluth City Hall has been closed to the public for about two months to help slow the spread of the coronavirus. The City of Duluth is looking into a phased plan to slowly begin reopening city hall to staff and the public. But there are going to be a few guidelines to follow to help keep the…

Suspect in Hayward Homicide Appears in Court; No Formal Charges Yet

Suspect's brother asks for highest bond, and for suspect to remain confined.

  HAYWARD, Wis.- It was around noon last Saturday when authorities discovered an elderly couple stabbed in their Hayward home. A 72-year-old man was dead, and a 65-year-old woman severely injured. The 34-year-old man accused of the crime is their son, and he appeared via video call in Sawyer County Court Wednesday. He has not been formally charged, but remains…

Midday Update 5-27-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Wednesday, May 27, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a look at local news and weather making headlines Wednesday, May 27, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, midday update, William Seay

Animal Allies Moves Forward With Reduced Summer Camp Class Sizes

Summer Camps Will Begin in June With Reduced Class Sizes Due to COVID-19

DULUTH, Minn. – Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, many summer events are canceled, but Animal Allies Humane Society in Duluth has figured out a way to still host educational summer camps with restrictions in place. “We worked really hard collaborating with other humane societies to see what we could offer our community after a stressful period of sheltering in place and…

Morning Update 5-27-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Wednesday, May 27, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a look at local news and weather making headlines Wednesday, May 27, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, morning update, William Seay

“Land of 10,000 Masks” Campaign Sees Success, More Masks Still Needed

1,399 masks were donated in the first week. That number jumped to 3,354 masks in the second week, and 5,230 masks in the third week. 

DULUTH, Minn. – Weeks after the campaign launch, community members have donated more than 10,000 face masks. These homemade masks will help limit the spread of Covid-19. They are worn by staff, patients, and visitors to St. Lukes and Essentia Health facilities. 1,399 masks were donated in the first week. That number jumped to 3,354 masks in the second week,…

City Council Set To Discuss Proposal To Approve Funding For Lakewalk Reconstruction Project

If approved, the Lakewalk Reconstruction Project could reconvene within the next several weeks.

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth City Council is expected vote on a proposal to approve two contracts amounting to $10 million to continue the Lakewalk Reconstruction project. The contracts will cover the cost to reconstruct more 2,000 feet of the Canal Park Lakewalk and the area’s shoreline, including adding wider trails and replacing stone along the shoreline. Nearly $8 million…

Duluth Proposes To Reduce Liquor Licensing Fees For Local Bars And Restaurants

The 20% reduction could mean some financial relief for bars and restaurants trying to recover from the recent economic blow.

DULUTH, Minn. – A lot of bars and restaurants are still dealing with the financial impacts of Covid-19. But many of them in Duluth could get some relief as city officials are proposing a plan to reduce liquor licensing fees. The owners of many of those businesses say every little bit of help the city is offering can bring them…

Midday Update 5-26-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Tuesday, May 26, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a local look at news and weather making headlines Tuesday, May 26, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, midday update, William Seay

Morning Update 5-26-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Tuesday, May 26, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a local look at news and weather making headlines Tuesday, May 26, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, morning update, William Seay

Retired Duluth Teacher Plays ‘Taps’ For Neighborhood

DULUTH, Minn. – Memorial Day was celebrated in a musical way for a neighborhood in Duluth Monday. Larry Danielson, 72, a retired Duluth public schools teacher, played “Taps” as his neighbors gathered in the street and sidewalks — social distancing — while honoring the military members who have died while serving in the United States armed forces. Larry’s father, Raymond, was…

From Boats to Bottle Rockets: Summer Businesses See Busy Memorial Day Weekend

Marinas and Firework shops see increased business from families trying to have a good time in these tough times.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- Memorial Day is looking a lot different in the Northland with parades and firework shows cancelled due to the Coronavirus. So in addition to honoring fallen heroes, people flocked to more popular summer businesses in Wisconsin to get out of the house and try to do something special. “Folks are like ‘I’ve seen enough of my home, it’s…

Recent Attempted Break-Ins And Burglaries Impact Local Businesses

"We're very disappointed that someone would do this and give us a big headache. We are getting very tired," said Smoke Shop Owner Mike Wazwaz.

DULUTH, Minn. – Duluth and Hermantown Police are searching for whoever is responsible for a string of attempted burglaries and break-ins at area businesses. As more people are staying home, recent statistics are showing most crimes in the area are decreasing. But break-ins and burglaries at local businesses are holding steady. Within the last 24 hours Duluth police responded to…

Hotels Get A Boost Over Memorial Day Weekend

"There are definitely people out and about looking for things to do. There are tourists around town, which is great to see again," said Pier B General Manager John Driscoll.

DULUTH, Minn. – This Memorial Day weekend is giving hotels in Duluth a bit of a boost in business. Hundreds of tourists and locals spent Memorial Day weekend exploring Canal Park, while others took a moment to honor fallen soldiers. Memorial Day weekend is normally one of the busiest for hotels in Duluth such as Pier B. But this year,…

Midday Update 5-25-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Monday, May 25, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a local look at news and weather making headlines Monday, May 25, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, midday update, William Seay

745 New Cases, 12 New Deaths Reported in Minnesota Monday Tied to COVID-19

Of the 12 New Deaths, 10 Were Residents of Long-Term Care Facilities

ST. PAUL, Minn. (FOX 9) – The Minnesota Department of Health reported 745 newly confirmed COVID-19 cases and 12 new deaths Monday, bringing the total number of positive cases the state has seen so far to 21,315 and the death toll to 881. Of the 12 deaths, 10 were residents of long-term care facilities. Residents of long-term care facilities now…

Gary New Duluth Veterans Memorial Ceremony Adapts During COVID-19 Pandemic

Typically, a Large Crowd Would Have Gathered at the Gary New Duluth Veterans Memorial to Commemorate Memorial Day

DULUTH, Minn. – The Gary New Duluth community prides itself on being extremely supportive of the men and women of our military. However, this year’s Memorial Day ceremony had to be conducted virtually due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Due to the virus, residents were unable to host their annual ceremony at the Gary New Duluth Veterans Memorial, as they…

COVID-19 Related Deaths in Wisconsin Surpass 500

As of Saturday, Wisconsin Reported a Total of 14,877 Positive COVID-19 Cases; New Numbers to be Released Monday Afternoon

MADISON, Wis. (AP) – Wisconsin has gone over 500 confirmed deaths from the coronavirus, according to state Department of Health Services figures released Saturday. The report showed 481 new COVID-19 cases over the weekend, for a total of 14,877, and an additional 11 deaths, for a total of 507. Two news deaths were reported in Milwaukee County, increasing the county’s…

Morning Update 5-25-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Monday, May 25, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a local look at news and weather making headlines Monday, May 25, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, morning update, William Seay

City of Duluth Works to Make Outdoor Seating, Liquor Licenses Easier for Bars and Restaurants

Some businesses are taking advantage of waived permit fees, while others must continue relying on takeout and curbside.

DULUTH, Minn.- Duluth city officials are making changes to policies and processes to allow greater flexibility for bars and restaurants who may not be outfitted to continue operating without dine-in customers. “Just like the city is struggling with the financial impact of this public health emergency, we know that our local businesses are struggling with this public health emergency,” said…

Shutdown ‘Devastating’ for Local Theatres

Duluth Playhouse has been hit hard by pandemic

DULUTH, Minn. – The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted more than just businesses across the Northland. Non-profit organizations have also been hit hard. Audiences can’t fill theatre seats. That means organizations like the Duluth Playhouse haven’t had their primary revenue source for the last two months. “When we had projected $1.2 million in ticket sales, it’s apparent that’s about $600,000 in…

Virtual Jazz Concert at Carlton’s Oldenburg House Raises Thousands for Area Hospitals

Donations from the livestream were distributed equally to four Northland Hospitals.

CARLTON, Minn.-  A popular music venue in Carlton decided to take their annual jazz concerts online, to help out healthcare workers in the Northland. While normally crooning through the estate of the Oldenburg house, songs like “Make Someone Happy” were livestreamed from one room Friday and Saturday night. The “Cookin’ at the O” Benefit Concert raised over $7,500 over the…

Gov. Walz Allows Places of Worship to Open Doors to Limited Capacity May 27th

The Governor and the Catholic Archdiocese came to a deal to gather more than 10 worshipers together at a time.

DULUTH, Minn.- Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and the Catholic Archdiocese of Minnesota came to a deal Saturday to allow places of worship in the state to open May 27th to groups larger than 10 people. This announcement comes on the day when the state is reporting a record number of COVID-19 cases. The Governor’s order states that places of worship,…

Cloquet Students Bid Farewell to Teachers

Organizers say, although this wasn't the end of the year they wanted teachers are getting the send-off they deserve.

CLOQUET, Minn. – Washington Elementary in Cloquet held their second “reverse parade” allowing students to be driven around the school to wish their teachers well. Organizers say, although this wasn’t the end of the year they wanted teachers are getting the send-off they deserve. “Today would have been our field day and we wanted to do something to celebrate for…

Local Cemeteries Prepare For Memorial Day

DULUTH, Minn. – Staff at Forest Hill Cemetery in Duluth spent the day preparing for Memorial Day to help honor veterans. Baskets full of flowers were laid out for veterans and civilians. Flags were placed on the grave-sites of those fallen soldiers. Family members were also given flags to give them the opportunity to pay their respects for their loved…

Memorial Day Ceremonies Canceled At Local Veteran Cemeteries

"It was a very difficult decision to make," said Minnesota Veteran's State Cemetery Administrator Cory Johnson.

SAGINAW, Minn. – Memorial day is this coming Monday. Thanks to the Covid-19 Pandemic… plans for large public celebrations have been canceled. The Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery in Saginaw is the final resting place for hundreds of soldiers who have sacrificed their lives protecting this country. Memorial Day is the day to commemorate those soldiers, but this year it won’t…

Midday Update 5-22-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Friday, May 22, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a local look at news and weather making headlines Friday, May 22, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, midday update, weather, William Seay

YMCA’s Camp Miller Announces They Will Be Open for Summer Season

Camp Miller, With Permission from Governor Tim Walz, Will Be Allowed to Host Family Camps Only

  STURGEON LAKE, Minn. – The YMCA’s Camp Miller in Sturgeon Lake, Minnesota, is celebrating its 122nd summer season this year amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Leadership learned earlier this week from Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, they will be allowed to open this summer for family camps only, with restrictions in place to prevent further spread of coronavirus. “We want…

Morning Update 5-22-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Friday, May 22, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a local look at news and weather making headlines Friday, May 22, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, morning update, William Seay

Salons Reopening To Clients After Governor Gives The OK

Since closing in March, The London Rayne salon owner has had to reschedule more than 50 appointments.

DULUTH, Minn. – Salons in Minnesota have been given the green light to reopen to the public, but they must follow a few safety protocols. The executive order requires hairstylists, barbers, and their clients to wear masks. And all services are by appointment only. But some salons in Duluth are taking a few extra precautions. London Rayne Salon is using…

Remember Food Safety as Summer Barbeques Begin

St. Luke's Clinical Dietitian Dr. Brenda Schwerdt Reminds of Food Safety, Healthy Eating During Summer Months

DULUTH, Minn. – As Memorial Day weekend approaches, dietitians at St. Luke’s want to remind everyone to practice food safety precautions. Experts recommend limiting your consumption of meats and mixing in a large number of fruits and vegetables during your backyard barbeques. St. Luke’s Clinical Dietitian Dr. Brenda Schwerdt suggests grilling peaches and pineapple as well as vegetables like peppers,…

Midday Update 5-21-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Thursday, May 21, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a local look at news and weather making headlines Thursday, May 21, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, midday update, William Seay

Multiple Residents Displaced After Apartment Fire in Eveleth

The Fire Broke Out Around 6:45 Wednesday Evening

EVELETH, Minn. – More than a dozen fire departments on the Iron Range responded to an apartment fire at the Countryside Apartment complex in Eveleth Wednesday evening around 6:45 p.m. According to Friends of the Northland FireWire, all residents were safely evacuated. Officials believe more than 20 people have been displaced from their home as a result of the fire….

Morning Update 5-21-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Thursday, May 21, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a local look at news and weather making headlines Thursday, May 21, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, morning update, William Seay

Duluth Bar, Restaurant Owners Surprised, Disappointed at Walz’s Outside Seating Restrictions

Different issues arise with just outside seating.

DULUTH, Minn.- Minnesota Governor Tim Walz loosened restrictions on business beginning June 1st. Bars and restaurants can open on that date with outdoor only seating, serving no more than 50 customers at a time and with employees wearing masks. “That extends to how do we find that new normal, restart Minnesota’s economy and I should say grow it from where…

A New Documentary Tells The Stories of Lake Superior Surfers

The film is expected to premiere in November.

DULUTH, Minn – A new documentary highlighting surfers in Lake Superior is now being filmed up the North Shore. The documentary titled Freshwater follows surfers hitting the waves in the freezing waters of Lake Superior. The idea of the documentary came about after the director and his family witnessed the enjoyment these brave people got out of surfing on lake…

St. Louis County Partners With Area Fire Stations For A Mask Drive

Masks collected through this drive are being donated for use at living facilities.

HERMANTOWN, Minn. -Face masks are still in high demand as the Coronavirus Pandemic continues across the nation. To help minimize the need, St. Louis County is partnering with area fire departments to collect masks. Masks collected through this drive are being donated for use at living facilities such as long-term care housing and senior homes. When Minnesota Governor Tim Walz…