Community

“Christmas for the Homeless” Event needs Donations

Christmas is more than 60 days away. Organizers behind the “Christmas for the homeless” event are now looking for donations to help the less fortunate, who usually don’t receive much around the holidays. A full list of donations such as warm clothing and essential items are currently needed. Organizers are also looking for possible drop off locations for those donations….

Wisconsin Residents React to Overnight Flooding

FOXBORO, Wis. – Several roads across Douglas County had to be shut down because of high water. “Two or three that remain closed. That’s for culvert related failure,” Interim Emergency Management Director, Dave Sletten says. County highways like B and W in Foxboro experienced several washouts and residents are feeling the effects in their homes. “It was overwhelming my subs,” Foxboro…

Midday Update 9-30-19

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Monday, September 30, 2019

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Brittney Merlot for a local look at news and weather making headlines Monday, September 30, 2019. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, brittney merlot, community, Local News, midday update

Influenza Confirmed in Minnesota, St. Luke’s Advises Early Flu Shot

Dr. Sara Lund with St. Luke's Infectious Disease Associates in Duluth Offers Advice Ahead of Flu Season

DULUTH, Minn. – According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 80,000 Americans died, and almost one million were hospitalized due to influenza during the 2017 – 2018 flu season. This year, health officials are once again reminding people to not put it off, and get vaccinated for the common illness before it’s too late. Dr. Sara Lund…

Road Closures: Flash Flooding

Map Of Current Closed Roads

DOUGLAS COUNTY, Wisc. – Douglas County Highway Department has CLOSED County HWY W between HWY B & C where it crosses the Nemadji River due to high water over the road. The Township of Summit is also reporting to Emergency Management that the Patzau Foxboro Road is CLOSED due to high standing water. Over 5.5″ of rain fell in these…

Update: One Dead in Lake Superior Water Emergency

Two men rescued, all three were employees of Roen Salvage of Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin.

DULUTH, Minn. – One person is dead and two others are lucky to be alive after their boat capsized into the frigid waters of Lake Superior at the end of Park Point during Monday’s Red Flag warning. According to St. Louis County Undersheriff Dave Phillips, the men were believed to be working in the harbor as part of a dredging…

Craft, Vendor Expo Coming to Miners Memorial Building in Virginia

The Northern Minnesota Craft & Vendor Expo is Happening October 5 - 6 in Virginia

VIRGINIA, Minn. – Art, entertainment, food and fun is coming to the Miners Memorial Building Saturday and Sunday, October 5 – 6. Saturday hours: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Sunday hours: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. The Miners Memorial Building is located at 812 South 9th Avenue in Virginia. The Northern Minnesota Craft & Vendor Expo is set to feature…

Morning Update 9-30-19

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Monday, September 30, 2019

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Brittney Merlot for a local look at news and weather making headlines Monday, September 30, 2019. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, brittney merlot, community, Headlines, Local News, weather

Lake Superior Disc Golf Community Holds Final Tournament

Final tournament held in Superior National Forest.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- The Lake Superior Disc Golf Community held their final tournament of the season Sunday. They tossed around the discs at the Superior National Forest. About 30–50 people came out to the tournament, out of about 100 in the region who play. Organizers want to see more people try disc golf, with the sport open to all ages. “Exercise…

Kids in Need Get Free Haircuts, Just in Time for Picture Day

Families walked out with a free haircut for the kids, and a $10 plate of barbecue.

DULTUH, Minn.- Back to school can be both a stressful and expensive time. Gathering school supplies, shopping for new clothes, and getting that fresh new haircut for Picture Day. So the organization A+ Game partnered with BAM Style to help families get their kids that new do. “It’s a wonderful service,” said parent Karen Reneau. “Low income families appreciate this…

Hundreds Walk to Help Grant Wishes

Make a Wish holds annual Walk for Wishes, raises over $10,000.

DULUTH, Minn.- Hundreds of people gathered at UMD’s Bagley Nature Center for a walk and run benefitting the Make-A-Wish foundation, to grant wishes for kids suffering from critical illnesses. Over $10,000 was raised for Make-A-Wish today, exceeding their goal. About 100 people pre-registered to participate in the Walk for Wishes. The smiles at events like these continue long after everyone…

Part of West First Street to be Changed to Two-Way Traffic

Hope is to eliminate wrong way drivers, reduce speeds, and have faster emergency response.

DULUTH, Minn.- Starting Monday a portion of West First Street in Duluth will begin to be changed to two-way traffic. The eight blocks between 22nd Avenue West and 30th Avenue West will be converted. The city believes two–way traffic will eliminate wrong–way drivers, reduce speeds and allow for quicker emergency response.   Categories: Community, Minnesota, News, News – Latest News,…

Railroad Street to Close in Preparation for Can of Worms Project

Project to complete by October 11th.

DULUTH, Minn.- Starting Monday, a big portion of Railroad Street will be closed for the next two weeks to replace train crossings. The closure is between 5th Avenue West by the DECC, and Garfield Avenue. The new rail crossings are part of improvements to railroad street in preparation for increased traffic when the “Twin Ports Interchange Project” begins on the…

On-Campus Clinic Opens at Lake Superior College

DULUTH, Minn. – St. Luke’s opened a new clinic Friday morning. In partnership with Lake Superior College, the two transformed an old computer lab at the school into the Q-Care Clinic. The express clinic treats patients for a variety of minor aliments, helping even more people in the area. “Both are very successful. So one at Cub foods and one…

Midday Update 9-27-19

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Friday, September 27, 2019

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Brittney Merlot for a local look at news and weather making headlines Friday, September 27, 2019. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, brittney merlot, community, Headlines, Local News, midday update, weather

Walk for Wishes Sunday at Bagley Nature Area in Duluth

The Annual Walk for Wishes is Happening Sunday, September 29 at Bagley Nature

DULUTH, Minn. – The 2019 Walk for Wishes Duluth is happening Sunday, September 29 at Bagley Nature Area on the campus of UMD. Walk For Wishes is a spirited event that gives participants the choice to participate in either the 2.5K trail walk or 5K run. The event is powered by wish families, volunteers, donors, and friends. Throughout the event,…

Morning Update 9-27-19

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Friday, September 27, 2019

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Brittney Merlot for a local look at news and weather making headlines Friday, September 27, 2019. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, brittney merlot, community, Local News, morning update, weather

Game Day Munchies? Bucktales Cantina and Grill Has You Covered

Cooking Connection: Sloppy Jose and Tinga Dilla

SUPERIOR, Wis. – It’s football season and with it comes the munchies! In this week’s Cooking Connection, FOX 21’s Brett Scott chats with Bucktales Cantina and Grill owner Dee Morales as business picks up for the fall season. Morales is the only chef in the kitchen at Bucktales, handcrafting each order to perfection. The business is located near Pattison State…

Midday Update 9-26-19

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Thursday, September 26, 2019

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Brittney Merlot for a local look at news and weather making headlines Thursday, September 26, 2019. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, brittney merlot, community, Headlines, Local News, midday update, weather

Celebrate Oktoberfest with The Boat Club Restaurant and Bar

Oktoberfest at The Boat Club Restaurant and Bar is Happening Saturday, September 28 from 11:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. in the Fitger's Courtyard

DULUTH, Minn. – There’s a boatload of fun being packed into one event happening Saturday, September 28. Oktoberfest at The Boat Club Restaurant and Bar is happening from 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. The event, taking place in the Fitger’s Courtyard, features LIVE music, Dachshund races, Oktoberfest brews and authentic German cuisine. At 5:00 p.m., guests will be welcome to…

Morning Update 9-26-19

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Thursday, September 26, 2019

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Brittney Merlot for a local look at news and weather making headlines Thursday, September 26, 2019. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, brittney merlot, community, Local News, morning update, weather

Superior Law Enforcement Help Spread Rail Safety Awareness

SUPERIOR, Wis – Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers has declared Sept. 22 through Sept. 28 “Rail Safety Week” throughout the state. It allows local law enforcement agencies and railroad companies to work together to help spread awareness to motorists. In Wisconsin last year, there were 39 crashes involving trains, which resulted in 12 injuries and 4 deaths. Tuesday in Superior, officials…

Haunted Shack Looking for Spooky Volunteers

At least 50 volunteers needed to help make the haunted attraction a success.

CARLTON, Minn.- The Haunted Shack and Haunted Ridge are looking for more spooky characters to join in scaring the people of the Northland. “Just having fun scaring people, it’s really fun,” said Volunteer Coordinator Julie Schwarzkopf. The demand is bigger this year as the William A. Irvin Haunted Ship will once again not be in the Minnesota Slip. “It did…

Cloquet’s Community Memorial Hospital, Raiter Clinic Merge

Merger helps the hospital compete with Essentia, coming in May.

CLOQUET, Minn.- Two of Cloquet’s major healthcare facilities are merging to provide better care, and compete with Essentia’s expansion there in May. Community Memorial Hospital recently purchased the Raiter Clinic for an undisclosed amount. Operations will still continue in the Raiter building, and as of now it will still carry the Raiter name. The hospital will move its family care…

Carving Soapstone at Cloquet Library

Stone Carving Class lets people make their own pendants, desk ornaments, and more.

CLOQUET, Minn.- People at the Cloquet Library got a chance to hand craft their own indigenous stone sculptures. The library hosted a stone carving class, where participants got to carve soapstone into their own pendants, desk ornaments, or whatever decorations they prefer. The native skywatcher carvings reflect the stories of native cosmology. “They’ll leave tonight with an actual piece of…

Fall Colors at Jay Cooke State Park Near Peak

CARLTON, Minn. – Fall is in the air and people are getting out to Jay Cooke State Park to check out the foliage. Some trees are closer to peaking now than others. Park managers say, they are ahead of schedule. “Typically it’s been more of early October. This year, late September we’ve been hitting the 50-75% faster than we were…

Blue Mass Honors Law Enforcement and Public Safety Personnel

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Congregation members of Cathedral Christ the King in Superior held their 5th annual “Blue Mass” on Wednesday morning. Local law enforcement, public safety personnel and veterans were all present. Members of the Cathedral School joined along- with those students participating in the mass currently having family members in law enforcement. It’s all to thank officers for taking…

Midday Update 9-25-19

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Wednesday, September 25, 2019

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Brittney Merlot for a local look at news and weather making headlines Wednesday, September 25, 2019. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, brittney merlot, community, Headlines, Local News, midday update, weather

Beargrease Beer and Bacon Bash Taking Over Proctor Fair Grounds Saturday

The Annual Event is Happening Saturday, September 28 from 3 - 7 p.m. at the Proctor Fair Grounds

PROCTOR, Minn. – This family-friendly Beer-Bacon-Bloody Mary tasting event is the kick-off to the Beargrease season, and one of the biggest fundraisers for the race. The Beer and Bacon Bash is happening Saturday, September 28 at the Proctor Fairgrounds. More than ten vendors will be on hand with samples, including Bent Paddle Brewing Co., Castle Danger Brewery, Vikre Distillery, South…

Morning Update 9-25-19

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Wednesday, September 25, 2019

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Brittney Merlot for a local look at news and weather making headlines Wednesday, September 25, 2019. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, brittney merlot, community, Headlines, Local News, weather

UMD Rock Climbing Students Scale West Duluth Rock Formation

Class climbs real rock for the first time off of First Street.

DULUTH, Minn.- A normally bare rock formation off First Street by Piedmont Avenue is suddenly crawling with people climbing up and down the cliff. “Duluth is full of hidden wonders kind of, y’know, you’re finding new trails, finding new things to do everyday,” said Sierra Kooistra. “New formations to climb, it’s a big city so you’re always finding new things…

Mechanic Shops Prepare for Winterization Boom

They advise checking your tires, heater, fluids and battery before the cold sets in.

DULUTH, Minn.- It may be warm now, but winter will be here before you know it. Mechanics at shops like Automedics in Duluth told us people start coming in to winterize their vehicles when the temperatures drop. While testing your heater, and looking at your battery are all things you should do, they said checking your tires is a big…

Animal Allies Holds Free Microchip Clinic

Microchips can help get your lost pet home in minutes.

DULUTH, Minn.- Northlanders who need their pets microchipped got to do so for free thanks to animal allies and the Irving Country Club Tuesday. They hosted a free chip clinic at the Evergreen Senior Center on Grand Avenue in Duluth. Winter is a common time for animals to get chipped, because people bring in strays so they don’t get cold….

Love Creamery Looking for New ‘Champ’ UMD Flavor

30 submissions already received for new flavor ideas.

DULUTH, Minn.- I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream, and soon we could all be screaming for a UMD-inspired flavor of the cold treat from Love Creamery. The West Duluth ice cream shoppe is asking the community to help them come up with a new “Champ” flavor of ice cream. You can submit your idea online here…

Midday Update 9-24-19

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Tuesday, September 24, 2019

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Brittney Merlot for a local look at news and weather making headlines Tuesday, September 24, 2019. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, brittney merlot, community, Headlines, Local News, midday update, weather

Tackle Student Debt During College Savings Month

September is National College Savings Month, Financial Professional Barry Bigelow Offers Advice on Tackling College Debt

DULUTH, Minn. – In Minnesota, the average graduate leaves college with $32,052 in student loan debt. September is college savings month and local financial professional Barry Bigelow from Great Waters Financial recently stopped by FOX 21 Local News with tips to tackle student debt. Student debt is at an all time high, how much do we owe in student loans?…

Morning Update 9-24-19

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Tuesday, September 24, 2019

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Brittney Merlot for a local look at news and weather making headlines Tuesday, September 24, 2019. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, brittney merlot, community, Headlines, Local News, morning update, weather

Duluth Council Packed for 5-Cent Charge Ordinance for Single-Use Bags

Dozens speak in support of the ordinance, no one speaks against.

DULUTH, Minn.- A potential new ordinance in Duluth could mean that for every paper or plastic bag you use from a store, you’re charged an extra five cents. The proposal is got its first read at Monday night’s City Council meeting, with residents sharing how they feel about it during public comments. They could vote on the ordinance at their…

Council Reads Ordinance Charging 5 Cents Per Single-Use Bags

Ordinance is an effort to phase out single-use paper or plastic bags in the City.

DULUTH, Minn.- Duluthians are one step closer to being charged five cents for every single-use plastic or paper carryout bag used while shopping. The ordinance gets its first read at City Council Monday night. It would apply to all retail establishments, excluding bags used to transport take-out food, bags from pharmacists, and bags for produce and meats. The retailers would keep…

Midday Update 9-23-19

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Monday, September 23, 2019

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Brittney Merlot for a local look at news and weather making headlines Monday, September 23, 2019. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, brittney merlot, community, Headlines, Local News, midday update, weather

Visit Cook County Announces Busy Lineup of Autumn Events

Staff at Visit Cook County Anticipate Peak Season to be Around the Last Weekend in September

COOK COUNTY, Minn. – Fall colors are popping along the North Shore, prompting the staff at Visit Cook County to encourage leaf lookers to take a drive and enjoy the majestic maple forests full of vibrant colors. Linda Jurek with Visit Cook County stopped by FOX 21 Local News to chat about a plethora of upcoming events this autumn. Jurek…

Old Fashioned Fun, Entertainment Highlight Lester River Rendezvous

Lester River Rendezvous is Happening Saturday, September 28 from 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

DULUTH, Minn. – Northlanders are invited to take part in the 21st annual Lester River Rendezvous Saturday, September 28. Before the main event this weekend, students from across Northern Minnesota will have the chance to explore and learn lifelong skills at the 2019 Lester River Rendezvous starting Thursday, September 26. For two days, classrooms will come alive outdoors as students…

Morning Update 9-23-19

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Monday, September 23, 2019

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Brittney Merlot for a local look at news and weather making headlines Monday, September 23, 2019. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, brittney merlot, community, Local News, morning update, weather

Orr Auto Dealer, Repair Business Burns in Early Morning Fire

The Fire was Reported Around 1:45 a.m. Monday, September 23

Courtesy: Friends of the Northland FireWire ORR, Minn. – An early morning fire has resulted in the total loss of Wally’s Auto Service in downtown Orr. According to Friends of the Northland FireWire and St. Louis County officials, the call for help came in around 1:45 a.m. Monday, September 23. The Orr Fire Department, along with mutual aid from Cook…

Blankets, Sleeping Bags Wanted for Homeless as Weather Cools

Donations can be dropped off at CHUM, Damiano Center, or Loaves and Fishes.

DULUTH, Minn.- There’s a strong need for donations to help keep the homeless in Duluth warm right now and into the winter. Besides hats and gloves, CHUM’s drop-in shelter on First Avenue West needs as many sleeping bags and blankets as possible. This comes especially with the up-and-down weather the Northland has been experiencing lately. “If we look over the…

Chester Bowl Fall Fest Brings Autumn Fun

Rain pushes Festival back to Sunday, park still filled.

DULUTH, Minn.- Saturday’s rain wasn’t enough to keep the 35th Annual Chester Bowl Fall Fest down. The event was rescheduled for Sunday, bringing thousands to the park. There were 130 vendors selling handcrafted items as well as 8 food vendors. The fresh caramel apples are one of the most popular treats, sold by the Duluth Lions club for more than…

Hundreds Muddied Up at Dirt Yard Dash

7th Annual Dirt Yard Dash brought all ages out to run through the mud,

DULUTH, Minn.- The sloshing of mud, followed by the cheers of fans, fills the air. “It’s more mental than it is physical,” said Peter Koering. No, these people jogging through the woods aren’t running from the law, they’re running through the mud for fun. “I don’t know it’s kinda fun for, I mean it’s nice, it’s what I do at…

UMD Walks a Mile to Support People with Disabilities

12th Annual Walk a Mile in Our Shoes hopes to raise $50,000.

DULUTH, Minn.- It was a sea of burgundy at the UMD Fieldhouse for Udac’s 12th Annual Walk a Mile in Our Shoes event. UMD athletes and Band students walked a one mile journey to support those who journey through life with intellectual and developmental disabilities. UMD teams were encouraged to raise funds before enjoying the energetic morning on campus. “It…

Lawmakers Hold Community Conversation on Cannabis

Duluth is the first stop of 15 communities to give feedback.

DULUTH, Minn.- Duluth was the first stop on a list of 15 communities lawmakers are planning on visiting to get feedback from community members as they craft a marijuana legalization bill to present to the house when they reconvene in February. In a town hall format the five lawmakers heard thoughts and concerns about legalizing cannabis. From whether or not…

St. Luke’s Management, Nurses Reach Tentative Contract Agreement

Strike vote withdrawn Monday, nurses to vote on the contract Wednesday.

DULUTH, Minn.- In the early hours of Saturday morning, nurses at St. Luke’s reached a tentative contract agreement with hospital management. The nurses’ negotiating team is recommending a “yes” vote to ratify. This comes after the nurses voted to strike last Monday. The nurses will withdraw the strike notice this Monday. The new contract addresses the staffing shortage at the…