News – Latest News

Businesses Respond to Mask Recommendations

DULUTH, Minn.– County health officials are recommending masks to be worn inside, despite vaccination status, due to a spike in the number of cases throughout Saint Louis County. “We’re just recommending, like the county is recommending, and my staff same thing, their choice at this point, and hopefully it wont get any worse than that, but you know its mainly…

Ex-Cops Charged in Floyd Death Want Separation From Chauvin

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) – Three former Minneapolis police officers charged with violating George Floyd’s civil rights are asking that their federal trials be separated from the trial of Derek Chauvin, who has already been convicted on state murder charges. Attorneys for J. Kueng and Tou Thao said in court filings Tuesday that their clients would be unfairly prejudiced if they went…

Biden to Announce New Eviction Ban Due to COVID Spread

WASHINGTON (AP) – The Biden administration will announce a new 60-day eviction moratorium that would protect areas where 90% of the U.S. population lives. That’s according to three people familiar with the plans who insisted on anonymity to discuss the forthcoming announcement. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has identified a legal authority for a new and different moratorium…

Legislative Committee: UW System Virus Moves Need Our OK

MADISON, Wis. (AP) – A Republican-controlled legislative committee has blocked the University of Wisconsin System from taking several steps to fight coronavirus without its approval. The Wisconsin State Journal reports the committee’s move comes as university officials in Madison are weighing a campuswide mask mandate and expanded testing requirements for people who haven’t been vaccinated. It also comes as the…

Lake Superior College to Require Masks Beginning Wednesday

DULUTH, Minn. – Lake Superior College will once again be requiring masks or facial coverings to be worn in public indoor settings on all four campus locations beginning Wednesday. Lake Superior College President Patricia Rogers wrote in a memo on Tuesday, “The health and safety of our campus community remain among our absolute highest priorities. As we prepare for the…

City of Duluth to Require Masks in City Facilities Beginning Wednesday

DULUTH, Minn. – The City of Duluth says starting Wednesday masks will be required for staff and the public in all city facilities. “Earlier today, an email was sent to staff alerting them of this change,” Chief Administrative Officer Noah Schuchman said. “This is not a decision that we make lightly and is a short-term step which we feel is…

Officer Dead After Burst of Violence Outside Pentagon

(AP Photo/Andrew Harnik) UPDATE: WASHINGTON (AP) — An officer died after being stabbed Tuesday during a burst of violence at a transit station outside the Pentagon, law enforcement officials said. A shooting resulted in the Pentagon being locked down for more than an hour. A Pentagon officer who was stabbed later died, according to officials who were not authorized to…

Hibbing Man Arrested After Allegedly Stealing St. Louis County Sheriff’s Patrol Squad Car

VIRGINIA, Minn. – A 21-year-old Hibbing man was arrested Tuesday after he allegedly stole a St. Louis County Sheriff’s patrol squad and then led authorities on a vehicle pursuit towards Tower. According to police, the incident happened around 10:20 p.m. when a deputy parked the squad car outside of the County Courthouse complex in Virginia, which he believed to be…

Midday Update 8-3-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Tuesday, August 3, 2021

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Tuesday, August 3, 2021. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, midday update, News, weather

Pentagon on Lockdown After Gunshots Fired Near Metro

WASHINGTON (AP) — Gunshots were fired Tuesday morning near the entrance of the Pentagon, resulting in multiple injuries. The facility, the headquarters of the U.S. military, was placed on lockdown. The Arlington County Fire Department reported “multiple patients,” but it wasn’t immediately clear if they had been shot or the extent of the injuries. The incident occurred on a Metro…

Gov. Cuomo Sexually Harassed Multiple Women, Probe Finds

NEW YORK (AP) – An investigation into New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo has found that he sexually harassed multiple current and former state government employees. State Attorney General Letitia James announced the findings Tuesday. The investigation, conducted by two outside lawyers, found that the Cuomo administration was a “hostile work environment” and that it was “rife with fear and intimidation.”…

NYC Will Require Vaccination Proof for Indoor Dining, Gyms

(AP Photo/Kathy Willens,File) NEW YORK (AP) — New York City will soon require proof of COVID-19 vaccinations for anyone who wants to dine indoors at a restaurant, see a performance or go to the gym, Mayor Bill de Blasio announced Tuesday, making it the first big city in the U.S. to impose such restrictions. The new requirement, which will be…

Minnesota Discovery Center Optimistic for Strong Future Ahead

The COVID-19 Pandemic Provided Staff at the Minnesota Discovery Center Time to Rethink Their Mission & Impact on Visitors

CHISHOLM, Minn. – Staff at a museum on the Iron Range is thankful, and making a big impact as they work to come out of the pandemic stronger than ever before. They say the silver lining is shining bright at the Minnesota Discovery Center in Chisholm. “I think they’re excited to explore and run around, ride the trolley, and play…

Morning Update 8-3-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Tuesday, August 3, 2021

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Tuesday, August 3, 2021. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, morning update, News, weather

Duluth Police Department Rolls out New Community Engagement Bus

(courtesy: Duluth Police Department) DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth Police Department is rolling out a new community engagement bus just in time for National Night Out. The police department says the bus was donated by the Duluth Transit Authority and was provided through the JAG Grant, which focuses on community policing initiatives. “Since it’s a community engagement bus, we opened…

Boats, Beverages, BBQ Coming to DECC’S Harborside Deck

Meanwhile the DECC hopes to add more turf and even hammocks and solar sails to what they call an under-used space.

DULUTH, Minn.- A new way to enjoy the view of the Duluth harbor is opening up this Wednesday as the DECC starts a weekly barbecue event on its harborside patio deck. Boats, Beverages and Barbecue will feature barbecue from Lincoln Park’s “Howard’s Que” and drinks, all while enjoying the ships and boats passing through, including the sailboats that go out…

St. Louis County Recommends Masks Indoors Again, Blames Unvaccinated for COVID Spike

Meanwhile UMD is requiring masks for all indoor buildings.

DULUTH, Minn.- Masks are making a comeback, with some Northland businesses and even UMD requiring them in their buildings. Now St. Louis County Public Health leaders are recommending everyone mask up indoors vaccinated or not — pointing to those who still haven’t gotten the COVID shot for the surge in community spread. “It’s frustrating. It’s unfortunate,” said Amy Westbrook, Public…

Kids Learning to Sail in Summer Camp

DULUTH, Minn.- More summer camps are underway in the Northland. The Duluth-Superior Sailing Association kicked off its youth sailing camp today on Park Point. The week-long camp teaches kid’s age’s seven to twelve how to set up equipment and sail. “The kids are becoming members. So we’re teaching them how to rig their own boats and sail them safely,” said…

New Can of Worms Ramp Closures Stacking Up

DULUTH, Minn.- As of today, Twin Ports Interchange ramp closures are underway. Detour signs and traffic barrels are now set up, blocking I-35 south to Highway 53 north, I-535 north to Highway 53 north, and the on ramp to I-35 south from West Superior Street. The three closures are in place through fall of 2023. “So from a traffic impact…

Highs and Lows of Lincoln Park Businesses

DULUTH, Minn.- Different businesses in Lincoln Park are experiencing the highs and lows of business due to construction in the area. Bike lane construction on West Superior Street impacted the up and coming area in several ways. Less parking and street closures caused at least one business, Lee’s Pizza to temporarily close. “We do a lot of delivery and pick…

University of St. Thomas to Require COVID Vaccine for All Students, Staff for Fall Semester

(courtesy: Fox 9)   ST. PAUL, Minn. (FOX 9) – The University of St. Thomas announced it will require students, faculty, and staff to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 before returning to campus this fall. According to the university, the decision was made due to the spread of the delta variant. Additionally, following recent CDC guidance, the university will still…

St. Louis County Recommending Masks in Indoor, Public Places

ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Minn. – St. Louis County public health officials say they are recommending face masks be worn in indoor, public places regardless of vaccination status due to substantial transmission of COVID-19 throughout the county. “We are as frustrated as anyone, but more than that, we are concerned by this growth in cases,” said Amy Westbrook, St. Louis County…

Graham 1st Vaccinated Senator to Test Positive for COVID-19

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) – Sen. Lindsey Graham has tested positive for the coronavirus. The South Carolina Republican is the first senator to disclose a breakthrough infection after being vaccinated. Graham said in a statement Monday afternoon that he “started having flu-like symptoms Saturday night” and went to the doctor Monday morning. Graham said he would quarantine for 10 days and…

Target Requiring Employees to Mask up in Areas With High COVID-19 Infection Rates

MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) – Beginning Tuesday, Target says it will require employees who work in stores in certain areas to mask up again. The Minneapolis-based retailer will require masks for employees at stores in areas with a substantial or high risk of transmission of COVID-19, as defined by the CDC, according to a statement. Currently, over 40 Minnesota counties are…

Midday Update 8-2-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Monday, August 2, 2021

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Monday, August 2, 2021. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Ken Slama, Local News, midday update, News, weather

University of Minnesota Reimposes Indoor Mask Mandate

MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) – The University of Minnesota is reinstituting its indoor mask mandate for everyone on campus, regardless of vaccination status, starting Tuesday. University President Joan Gabel sent an email to students, faculty, and staff on Monday informing them of the change. Gabel said the decision comes after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced new guidance on…

‘Best Christmas Ever’ Aims to Set New World Record During City on the Hill Music Festival

The City on the Hill Music Festival is Happening Aug. 6 & 7

DULUTH, Minn. – The excitement is building to see how many candy canes can be hung on the giant Christmas tree erected at Bayfront Park between August 5 – 7 during the City on the Hill Music Festival. The goal is to reach 8,000 candy canes to get Duluth, Minnesota in the record books. Community members can get involved by…

Morning Update 8-2-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Monday, August 2, 2021

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Monday, August 2, 2021. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, morning update, News, weather

Evictions Expected to Spike as Pandemic Moratorium Ends

BOSTON (AP) – Housing courts around the country are ramping up work following the end of the federal eviction moratorium. Housing advocates fear the end of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention moratorium over the weekend will result in millions of people being evicted. But most expect the wave of evictions to build slowly over the coming weeks and…

“The Great Twin Ports Get Together” Scheduled for August 15th

DULUTH, Minn. — “The Great Twin Ports Get Together” is coming to Wade Stadium in Duluth on August 15th, according to a press release from the organizer. It will include live music featuring five bands playing throughout the day and fun activities for kids, such as bouncy houses and games with prizes. The event will also have beer, popcorn, and…

Triathlon Part of Summer Comeback for Island Lake Inn

Staff at the small business say they appreciate the crowds the triathlon brings in.

DULUTH, Minn.- Many triathletes were hungry after putting in the work at the Brewhouse Triathlon Sunday, and packed the nearby Island Lake Inn bar to refuel. Staff at the small business say they appreciate the crowds the triathlon brings in. And this year the event is just part of a summer comeback for their customers, after last year’s season of…

Hundreds Swim, Bike, Run Through 34th Brewhouse Triathlon at Island Lake

Organizers say conditions couldn't have been better with cooler temps, and break in the smoky haze.

DULUTH Minn.- The weather was perfect Sunday for bikers, runners and swimmers to compete in the 34th Annual Fitgers’ Brewhouse Triathlon at Island Lake. “You can feel the tension in the air and then once the gun goes off — it’s just go time,” said triathlete Mike Ward. More than 400 athletes signed up to compete in this year’s Brewhouse…

More Bears Are Stealing Food From Campers As Drought Impacts Berry Supply In Northern Minnesota

(FOX 9) – As drought conditions linger in Minnesota, Superior National Forest is warning campers to secure their food as reports of bears seeking out food from humans are on the rise. According to wildlife officials, the drought has led to a poor berry crop, a major food source for black bears. As a result, the forest has seen increased incidents of…

Five Arrested in Hibbing Saturday in Connection to Meth Distribution on Iron Range

Three of the five were arrested after a traffic stop in Itasca County yielded "a large quantity of Methamphetamine."

HIBBING, Minn.- Five Hibbing residents were arrested Saturday night, in connection to a month-long investigation into meth distribution on the Iron Range, according to the St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office. According to a spokesperson with the Sheriff’s Office, three of the five were arrested after a traffic stop in Itasca County yielded “a large quantity of Methamphetamine.” They were lodged…

Duluth Resident Holds BBQ Benefitting Homeless

The organizer Airlea Defoe, herself a recovering addict who was homeless, says she wanted to make the homeless community feel more accepted. 

DULUTH, Minn.- A Duluth resident who overcame homelessness decided to give back to that population with a barbecue to raise money and donations Saturday. The event took place in the Central Hillside Park next to One Roof Community Housing. Anyone in need could come take a hot meal or supplies for free. Donations of those items such as toothpaste and…

All Pints North Summer Brewfest Brings Hundreds of Breweries, Beer-Lovers to Bayfront Park

DULUTH, Minn.- We’re here at All Pints North Summer Brewfest where hundreds of people get to try more than 120 different types of beer from local Minnesota breweries. Several breweries had games and novelty items for people to enjoy. Hippie and construction inspired themes were among the many breweries like Bent Paddle took part in. “We just love that so…

‘Duluth Farmers’ Market Jam Band’ Plays On

DULUTH, Minn.- The unofficially named Duluth Farmers’ Market Jam Band is a group of strangers who first met at the market years ago and now play music together at pop-ups each season. “It’s just the weekly jam band,” said local Gerhardt Moster-Beard. “People who wanna play come down here. The numbers vary week to week. It’s playing music together. I’m…

Duluth Farmers’ Market Celebrates National Farmers’ Market Week

DULUTH, Minn.- The Duluth Farmers’ Market celebrated National Farmers’ Market Week this morning with special treats products. From fresh produce to raw honey vendors across the Northland showed up for a busy Saturday morning. “My favorite part is actually being down here and selling and seeing the people we haven’t seen in a while,” said Lois Hoffbauer. “Farmer Doug and…

Minnesota Trappers Convention Returns to Barnum for 62nd Year

BARNUM, Minn.- The 62nd Annual Minnesota Trappers Association Convention returned this weekend after a pandemic pause in 2020, continuing their work of “helping to perpetuate the nation’s oldest industry – the fur trade…to preserve the trapping heritage and your right to trap.” FOX 21 Photojournalist Adam Jagunich shows us the sights and sounds of the 2021 show. Categories: Community, Entertainment,…

Duluth Police: Suspect Arrested Following Shooting, ‘Short Standoff’

Investigators said the 46-year-old shot at someone after a dispute before walking to his home where a standoff ensued.

DULUTH, Minn.- One male suspect is in custody following an early morning shooting in Duluth’s Spirit Valley neighborhood, and a standoff in Morgan Park Saturday, according to the Duluth Police Department. According to a spokesperson with the Department, around 2:30 a.m. Saturday officers responded to a report of a shooting in the 4700 block of Grand Ave. At the scene,…

100th South St. Louis County Fair Returns with New Look

This weekend marks the return of the South St. Louis County Fair here in Proctor. Fair organizers have pulled out all the stops to create a fun and unique experience for the fair's 100th year.

PROCTOR, Minn.– This weekend marks the return of the South St. Louis County Fair here in Proctor. Fair organizers have pulled out all the stops to create a fun and unique experience for the fair’s 100th year. A record turnout greeted the South St. Louis County Fair’s return, organizer say they’re making up for lost time in 2021 after missing…

Experts Warn Of Health Impacts from Smoky Conditions

FARGO, N.D.– The extension of those air quality alerts means those smoky conditions are going to stick around longer in the Northland. Local medical experts say to “use common sense and avoid prolonged exposure outdoors”. Children, the elderly, and people with heart or lung disease are particularly susceptible to ash particles and should take extra precautions over the next few…

UPDATE: Water Rescue Underway Off Park Point

UPDATE: DULUTH, Minn.- The swimmer was taken aboard Marine 19 and transferred to shore. He is not injured and in good spirits. _________________________________________________________________________________________________ DULUTH, Minn.-A water rescue is underway on Park Point. The rescue is happening off the 4200 block of Minnesota Avenue and was reported at about 5:45 p.m. According to a spokesperson for the Duluth Fire Department, they…