Community

Minnesota Senate Panel Passes GOP Insulin Affordability Bill

The Passing Comes As Patients and Parents Urged Senators to Keep Working on a Compromise Between Parties

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) – The long-running debate at the Capitol over insulin affordability has shifted to the Minnesota Senate. Patients and parents urged senators Thursday to keep working toward a compromise between competing Senate Republican and House Democratic proposals. Helping diabetics afford insulin is one of the main pieces of unfinished business left over from the 2019 session, when…

Fatal Snowmobile Crash in St. Louis County

Authorities Say the Snowmobiler Veered Off the Trail, Eventually Hitting a Tree

TOWER, Minn. – A snowmobiler is dead after a crash in Northern St. Louis County. Authorities say 51-year-old Daniel Cottew of Coon Rapids, Minnesota, was on the Arrowhead Trail near Tower when he veered off the trail, eventually hitting a tree. Cottew was pronounced dead at the scene despite life-saving efforts by first responders from Tower, Vermilion Lake, St. Louis County…

American Birkebeiner 2020 Could Yield Record Setting Race Times

American Birkebeiner 2020 Events Begin Thursday, February 20 in Hayward, Wisconsin

HAYWARD, Wis. – Events leading up to the American Birkebeiner kick off Thursday, February 20 in Hayward, Wisconsin. Preparations are already underway, with excitement getting wild in the region. Ben Popp, Executive Director of the Birkie chatted with FOX 21’s Brett Scott Friday morning regarding preparations and the potential for a record-setting year. “It’s interesting, we had so much snow…

Ready, Set, Book Across the Bay! Registration Remains Open

Ski, Snowshoe, Hike or Run From Ashland to Washburn Across The Frozen Chequamegon Bay

CHEQUAMEGON BAY, Wis. – The 24th annual Book Across the Bay takes place Saturday, February 15th, 2020. Book Across the Bay is the upper Midwest’s most unique winter event, open to skiers and snowshoers of all ages and ability levels. The 10-kilometer course, which is groomed for both classic-style and skate skiing, starts in Ashland and ends in Washburn, and…

Morning Update 2-14-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Friday, February 14, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Chief Meteorologist Anthony Peoples for a local look at news and weather making headlines Friday, February 14, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, morning update

Group Makes Banners Empowering Missing, Murdered Indigenous Women March

Currently 20 unaccounted women are logged in urban parts.

DULUTH, Minn.- The Native Lives Matter Coalition spent the day making banners for Friday’s fifth annual Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women Memorial March. According to data from the Urban Indian Health Institute, 20 indigenous women are murdered or missing from urban areas in Minnesota. A task force is working on determining numbers for the whole state. The banners empower family…

Firefighter Swearing-In Ceremony ‘Family Affair’ for One New Hire

New firefighter Cameron Kalan following in family's footsteps being a public servant for the city of Superior.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- Six new Superior firefighters and the city’s Fire Chief were sworn into duty Thursday. And for one firefighter, the ceremony connected him to his roots. Pride beamed throughout Superior Council Chambers, as excited friends and family watched four new firefighters officially become part of the Superior Fire Department. It was a different type of ceremony, because two of…

RV Couple Makes a Pit Stop in Duluth to Talk RVing Lifestyle

The Duluth Boat, Sports, Travel & RV Show is Happening February 12 - 16, 2020

DULUTH, Minn. – Thousands of Northlanders enjoy packing up the vehicle, loading firewood, and heading out for a weekend away at the campground. But could you imagine living in your RV year round? One couple from Kentucky did so for more than ten years. Howard and Linda Payne were living the “American Dream” according to most people. But there was…

Midday Update 2-13-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Thursday, February 13, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Brittney Merlot for a local look at news and weather making headlines Thursday, February 13, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, brittney merlot, community, Headlines, Local News, midday update

Morning Update 2-13-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Thursday, February 13, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Brittney Merlot for a local look at news and weather making headlines Thursday, February 13, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, morning update

Blackened Salmon Valentine’s Day Dinner

COOKING CONNECTION: Texas Roadhouse

DULUTH, Minn. — In this weeks Cooking Connection Fox 21’s Brittney Merlot hosts a restaurant that you can still get into for a Valentines Dinner! No reservations are taken there on Friday, but you can use call ahead seating. Hearty steaks aren’t the only thing Texas Roadhouse specializes in… try their blackened salmon! Check out the video above if you…

Delta to Offer Mainline Aircraft Flights from DLH to MSP and Back

New aircraft comes with new seats and new digs.

DULUTH, Minn.- Northlanders may find it easier to fly to the Twin Cities from Duluth International Airport, as Delta Airlines will be adding a new mainline plane to the route. Beginning in March Delta will operate a mainline aircraft out of DLH. The route will be the first flight out in the morning and last flight in from MSP Airport….

Volunteer Snowmobile Trail Groomer In Need of Repair or Replacement

The only groomer tackling trails in East Duluth and up the North Shore is out of service.

DULUTH, Minn.- The only snow groomer working on snowmobile trails in East Duluth is out of commission and in need of repair. While grooming the trails, the Duluth Drift-Toppers Snowmobile Club’s machine encountered an engine failure. Now the motor has to be redone, in order to keep the trails used by snowmobilers, fat-tire bikers, and hikers smooth and clean. The…

Midday Update 2-12-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Wednesday, February 12, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Brittney Merlot for a local look at news and weather making headlines Wednesday, February 12, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, brittney merlot, community, Headlines, Local News, midday update

Polar Plunge Taking Place on Park Point This Year

The Polar Bear Plunge is Happening Saturday, February 15

DULUTH, Minn. – For the first time, the 2020 Duluth Polar Plunge will liven up Park Point (instead of the traditional Canal Park plunge spot) on Saturday, February 15, 2020. Participants will first enjoy a pre-check-in party at Grandma’s Sports Garden in Canal Park Friday, February 14 from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. A day-of check-in will take place at Grandma’s…

Rainforest Exhibit Welcomes Exotic Animals to the DECC

The Show Begins Wednesday, February 12 at the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center

DULUTH, Minn. – A rainforest is an exotic place filled with birds, snakes, insects, and animals you might not think of living in this type of climate. The Duluth Boat, Sports, Travel & RV Show kicks off Wednesday, February 12 at the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center, giving the public a chance to experience the rainforest. The show runs through Sunday,…

Morning Update 2-12-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Wednesday, February 12, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Brittney Merlot for a local look at news and weather making headlines Wednesday, February 12, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, brittney merlot, community, Headlines, Local News, morning update

Beijing Restaurant Reopens to Chinese-Craving Customers

Restaurant opened nearly two years after fire shut it down.

DULUTH, Minn.- London Road smelled a little more like Chinese food Tuesday as the popular Beijing restaurant finally opened after a fire shut it down in 2018. The place was pretty busy throughout the day. Beijing is known for its big portions at a reasonable price. Longtime customers were all smiles, anxious to try their favorite dishes. “Every two weeks…

The Ups and Downs of Unfrozen Lake Superior

Experts share different effects of the lake's low ice cover, while some Northlanders miss the ice.

DULUTH, Minn.- The Northland has gone through an unseasonably warm winter, eliminating the chance for much ice to form on the surface of Lake Superior. “I was excited for the ice build up and it’s just not coming yet,” Lindsey Ruhnke said. Lapping waves is a surprising sound to hear by the lake at the beginning of February. “I think…

Boys and Girls Club Names Youth of the Year

Annual event highlights young people with exceptional character qualities.

DULUTH, Minn.- Four youth from the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Northland competed to be named Youth of the Year Tuesday. The annual event highlights young people who exemplify the pillars of a healthy lifestyle, good character and citizenship, and academic success. It was established in 1947 to help more youth develop the skills they’ll use throughout life. “It’s…

Midday Update 2-11-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Tuesday, February 11, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Brittney Merlot for a local look at news and weather making headlines Tuesday, February 11, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, brittney merlot, community, Headlines, Local News, midday update

Duluth Area Horse Trail Alliance Hosting 2nd Annual Fundraiser

Classic Horse Movie Night is Happening Thursday, February 13, 2020

DULUTH, Minn. – This bitter winter weather doesn’t help local horse enthusiasts get out on the trails, but that’s not stopping the Duluth Area Horse Trail Alliance from thinking about warmer months ahead. The Alliance is set to host the second annual Classic Horse Movie Night Fundraiser, raising money for horse trails and education efforts on Thursday, February 13 at…

Morning Update 2-11-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Tuesday, February 11, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Brittney Merlot for a local look at news and weather making headlines Tuesday, February 11, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, brittney merlot, community, Headlines, Local News, morning update

Duluth Council Approves Grant to Continue Mental Health Officer Position

Officer helps build relationships and get people help from Mental Health Services.

DULUTH, Minn.- The Duluth City Council approved a $206,793 grant that’ll allow the Duluth Police Department to continue dedicating an officer specifically for mental health calls. The officer is part of the Department’s Mental Health Unit based out of the DTA substation downtown. He works with people based on referrals from other officers and community members. Since the grant was…

Council Approves Demolition of Kozy; Former Owner Still Determined to Stop Wrecking Ball

Former owner Eric Ringsred didn't come up with the $50,000 bond court required to keep building up.

DULUTH, Minn.- The City of Duluth is the closest its ever been to tearing down the condemned Kozy building on East First Street. DEDA owns the building, and the Council voted to approve DEDA’s decision to demolish the building that’s sat vacant for nearly a decade. The council voted unanimously, 8-0 with Councilor Russ absent, to demolish the structure. But…

Midday Update 2-10-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Monday, February 10, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Brittney Merlot for a local look at news and weather making headlines Monday, February 10, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, brittney merlot, community, Headlines, Local News, midday update

2nd Annual Northern Pines Sled Dog Race Happening in Iron River

The Northern Pines Sled Dog Race is Happening Saturday, February 15, 2020

IRON RIVER, Wis. – The community of Iron River, Wisconsin, is thrilled to be hosting the 2nd annual Northern Pines Sled Dog Race on Saturday, February 15. The event is happening at the Northern Pines Golf Course and Event Center. It’s free and open to the public. Races will begin around 8:30 a.m. Organizers encourage families in the region come…

Think Local Gift Giving This Valentine’s Day

Duluth Loves Local Encourages Northlanders to Shop Small Businesses This Valentine's Day

DULUTH, Minn. – Flowers, chocolates, and a nice dinner out. It’s the traditional Valentine’s Day date, but it doesn’t have to be the same old plan every year. Duluth Loves Local is encouraging Northlanders to think outside of the box when it comes to gift giving for your sweetie this Valentine’s Day. The 2020 Portside Pass is now available at…

Morning Update 2-10-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Monday, February 10, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Brittney Merlot for a local look at news and weather making headlines Monday, February 10, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, brittney merlot, community, Headlines, Local News, morning update

Mike Bloomberg Opens Campaign Field Office in Duluth

Duluth office one of five in Minnesota.

DULUTH, Minn.- A Democratic Presidential candidate set up a remote office in Duluth. Former New York Mayor Mike Bloomberg’s campaign held a grand opening on Sunday. The office opened up on First Street Downtown, in the Duluth Athletic Club building. It’s one of five field offices in Minnesota for Bloomberg to boost his presence across the Super Tuesday state. According…

Valentini’s Moving from Duluth to Hermantown; Restaurant Assoc. Pres. Concerned Why

Association President says high taxes and fees is making it harder to run a restaurant in Duluth, one of the reasons why Valentini's moved.

DULUTH, Minn- Valentini’s Restaurant is preparing to move from its location on London Road to a permanent spot off Miller Trunk Highway in Hermantown. Valentini’s operated on London Road for the past 13 years, and will remain open through September. But one reason for leaving is what the owner called the increased financial difficulty of running a restaurant in the…

Itasca County Jail Could Close If It Doesn’t Undergo Major Renovations

GRAND RAPIDS, Minn. –  After receiving a sunset letter back in 2018 from the Department of Corrections, the jail will now be closed in September of 2021 if major changes are not made. “Our occupancy right now is anywhere between 100-120,” Itasca County Sheriff, Victor Williams says. The issue of overpopulation has caused the jail to send dozens of inmates…

Soul and Soul Food Served to Hundreds at UMD

At 240 people the event was sold out.

DULUTH, Minn.- Great smells, great company, and of course great tastes packed the Kirby Ballroom for the Black Student Association’s annual Soul Food dinner. “It signifies black people and unity, honestly,” Black Student Association Treasurer Trina Kwamboka said. “Being brought together to eat by your Grandma, to eat some soul food. It’s a really big thing in the black culture.”…

Celebrating Winter and Community at Carlton Winterfest

25th annual Winterfest featured activities indoors and outdoors.

CARLTON, Minn.- The weather was just right in Carlton for the annual Winterfest. Families enjoyed face painting, animals from Lake Superior Zoo’s Zoomobile, and a chili cookoff. Meanwhile outside they enjoyed “Mini Hook and Slice”: minigolf in the snow with tennis balls. The perfect way to spend a winter day. “People are, at this time of year in Minnesota winters…

Wild State Cider Releases New Cider with Zero Added Sugar

Classic dry cider has already had a good reception.

DULUTH, Minn.- Wild State Cider has released a new beverage: Classic Dry cider. This cider has zero added sugar, and is made with champagne yeast. The cidery owner said they released it now, as people are trying to eat and drink healthier this time of year. “We joke that we think this is the future of cider that not all…

City of Duluth Launches New MuniciPals Podcast

First episode received 100 downloads in a day.

DULUTH, Minn.- The City of Duluth is distributing information in a new way with a monthly podcast. The “MuniciPals” podcast started out as a joke according to officials, but has now turned into a new way to give people a behind the scenes look at the city, and distribute information on a wider scale. Following a peaceful guitar riff, Phil…

Hundreds Gather to Love their Local Artists

Superior Public Library's 10th annual event gathers 200-450 people.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- The Superior Public Library was packed with hundreds of community members Friday night, who came out to celebrate and love their local artists. The Library hosted the 10th Annual Love Your Local Artists event. About 40 different local artists and craftspeople showed off their pieces to between 250 and 400 attendees, giving them a fun activity to do…

Midday Update 2-7-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Friday, February 7, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Brittney Merlot for a local look at news and weather making headlines Friday, February 7, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, brittney merlot, community, Headlines, Local News, midday update

Behind Bars For FUN! Try To Escape This Test

ACTIVE ADVENTURES: Escape Room Parties Brings Mobile Escape Rooms To The Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center

SUPERIOR, Wisc. — In this weeks Active Adventures Fox 21’s Brittney Merlot and Brett Scott are locked up, in “Alcatraz prison”. Find out if they can escape… Join in on the escape room fun THIS WEEKEND ONLY. Thurs Feb. 6, Fri Feb. 7 & Sat. Feb 8th at the Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center, 305 E 2nd St, Superior,…

Why Do We Wear Red on Friday, February 7, 2020?

The Date Serves as Go Red For Women Day, Raising Awareness For Heart Disease in Women

DULUTH, Minn. – Heart disease is the number one cause of death for women, killing more women than all forms of cancer combined. Health experts say nearly 80 percent of cardiac events can be prevented yet cardiovascular diseases continue to be a woman’s greatest health threat. The American Heart Association’s signature women’s initiative, Go Red for Women, is a comprehensive…

Great Grey Owl Sighting Attracts Dozens of Bird Enthusiasts to Duluth

A Great Grey Owl Was Recently Spotted Along Interstate 35 Near 21st Avenue East in Duluth, a Rare Occurrence

DULUTH, Minn. – The Great Grey Owl typically resides toward the tip of North America and across the pond in northern Russia. Recently, residents in the Northland captured a rare sight, one that has bird enthusiasts speaking out in this week’s Great Outdoors. “Even people that were just driving by living in the neighborhood, they pull over and ask what…

Morning Update 2-7-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Friday, February 7, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Brittney Merlot for a local look at news and weather making headlines Friday, February 7, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, brittney merlot, community, Headlines, Local News, morning update

Mix Cosmetiques Opens New Location in Duluth

Store specializes in handmade, custom cosmetics.

DULUTH, Minn.- A local cosmetic store specializing in natural makeup that’s handmade has just opened up in a new storefront. Mix Cosmetiques had it’s grand opening today with a ribbon cutting at its new spot. It was formerly located downtown and in a kiosk at Miller Hill Mall. The store specializes in cosmetics made from natural ingredients, that customers can…

Lake Superior Nearly Ice-Free this Warm Winter

Ice coverage at less than 5% as temps are higher than normal.

DULUTH, Minn.- This winter’s unseasonably warm temperatures have left Lake Superior almost entirely without ice. According to experts at the National Weather Service, less than 5% of the lake is covered so far, while at this time last year 40% of the lake was covered. While less ice may make the water seem warmer, experts said that it’s still icy…

Meeting on Refugee Resettlement Turns Contentious

Both sides of the refugee issue clashed outside of meeting.

CLOQUET, Minn.- A presentation on refugee resettlement at the Fond Du Lac Tribal and Community College sparked a bit of controversy Thursday. The presentation focused on explaining “all the facts” about refugee resettlement, while some people in attendance said what they’re doing is wrong. The meeting at the college Thursday was not a part of any established group, but was…

The Fond Du Lac Tribal & Community College Hosts 4th Annual Nursing Career Expo

About 200 students take part in the Fond Du Lac Tribal & Community College's nursing program every year.

CLOQUET, Minn. – The Fond Du Lac Tribal and Community College in Cloquet hosted its 4th Annual Nursing and Healthcare Career Expo. More than 30 employers representing different nursing and healthcare fields participated in the event. Current Fond Du Lac College and area high school students had the chance to explore those fields and learn what jobs are available around…

Barnum School Board Could Decide To Cut Nearly $750,000 From District’s Budget

A decision could be made at the next regular school board meeting on February 18th.

BARNUM, Minn. – The Barnum School District could potentially need to cut nearly $750,000 from its budget for the next school year. This financial concern comes after the school board was presented with options to help reduce expenses within the school district during Tuesday’s board meeting. The $750,000 in cuts is just a recommendation for now. But the need to…

Midday Update 2-6-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Thursday, February 6, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Brittney Merlot for a local look at news and weather making headlines Thursday, February 6, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update