News – Latest News

Minnesota Fire Deaths Drop in 2018

Careless Smoking was Leading Cause of Fires

ST. PAUL, Minn. – The State Fire Marshal says fire deaths in Minnesota dropped 47 percent in 2018. A total of 36 people died last year in fires in Minnesota, according to preliminary figures released Thursday by the Department of Public Safety’s State Fire Marshal Division . That’s down from 68 fire deaths in 2017. The decline comes after a…

Three Suspects Charged in Hibbing Homicide Case

Three suspects, including one juvenile, have been charged in connection with a homicide in Hibbing Sunday.

HIBBING, Minn.-Three suspects, including one juvenile, have been charged in connection with a homicide in Hibbing Sunday. Deshon Bonnell, 18, along with 20-year-old Anthony Howson, and a 17-year-old female, are all getting charged with second-degree murder, kidnapping, and aggravated robbery, for the murder of Joshua LaValley of Aurora. The 33-year-old LaValley’s body was found Sunday by a snowmobiler on the…

15-Year-old Driver Flips Minivan, Killing Teen

All Three Teens are From Sheboygan

TOWN OF CENTERVILLE, Wis. – Sheriff’s officials say a teen died when a minivan being driven by a 15-year-old girl crashed in Manitowoc County. Authorities say the young driver, who did not have an instruction permit, and another passenger were injured in the crash about 1 a.m. Thursday in the Town of Centerville. A 17-year-old boy who was in the…

No Charges in Virginia Fatal Officer Involved Shooting

Courtesy: Mark Sauer/Mesabi Daily NewsVIRGINIA, Minn. – St. Louis County Attorney Mark Rubin released his findings Thursday morning concluding Virginia Police Officer Nicholas Grivna justifiably acted in self-defense in the November 27 deadly shooting incident. According to the report, at approximately 5:00 p.m. on November 27 a man, later identified as J. Scot Alan Widmark, forced a woman out of…

Rock the Night Away Friday with 2019 Homegrown Winter Fiasco

The Winter Fiasco is Happening Friday, January 11, 2019 in the Lincoln Park Craft District

DULUTH, Minn. – Prepare to rock the night away Friday, January 11 in Duluth’s Lincoln Park Craft District. The 2019 Homegrown Winter Fiasco will provide listeners with a large lineup of musical performance and entertainment. A free shuttle will be going between venues from 6:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. A list of venues and acts is listed below: Lake Superior…

Corrections Staff Logs $50 million in Overtime in 2018

The State saw an Unemployment Rate at Three Percent

MADISON, Wis. – Department of Corrections staff in Wisconsin racked up $50 million in overtime in 2018. An internal review shows the overtime at the state’s adult correctional institutions increased by $7 million from 2016. Overtime expenses for 2017 were not available. The overtime is largely caused by staffing vacancies. The State Journal reports about 680 correctional officer and sergeant…

Friends Remember Hibbing Homicide Victim

"There's not a nicer person in the world I just don't really understand it."

HIBBING, Minn. – Joshua LaValley was loved by so many and his murder has left people close to him heartbroken. A life cut short for man described by his friends as having a lot character and multiple talents. Joshua loved to draw and play guitar. His funny demeanor brought joy to those who cared for him. Filled with emotion, a…

DTA Looks to “Rapid Bus Transit” Option

Rapid bus line would include fewer stops and a higher number of buses on route

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth Transit Authority is looking at offering what’s called “Rapid Bus Transit” which they tell us offers many of the economic benefits of rail service at a much lower cost. Officials say a good corridor exists for the faster bus line on Grand Avenue and Michigan Street in West Duluth, through downtown, and to the University…

University Nursery School Opens New Location

Location on East Third Street expected to help with regional child care shortage

DULUTH, Minn. – University Nursery School has opened a new location in the Jefferson Square building on East Third Street. The new spot will allow staff to educate forty-eight infants, fifty-five toddlers, and seventy-two pre-schoolers. The child care center is now accepting applications. They’re hoping to fill the big space with kids having fun. “Duluth has long winters and now…

Suspect Charged with Assault and Robbery in Park Point Attack; Victim Remains in Coma

70-year-old Larry Watczak was attacked in his home on January 2nd

DULUTH, Minn. – 30-year-old Darrel Mayhew of Duluth has been officially charged with three felonies in the violent attack of a 70-year-old man taking a nap in his Park Point home. That man is Larry Watczak who continues to fight for his life in a coma since the January 2nd attack to his head. Mayhew is facing First Degree Assault,…

Northland Facebook Page Helps Find Lost Pets

A Northland Facebook page, which just passed 8,000 followers, is continuing to ease some of that anxiety by helping you find your lost pet.

DULUTH, Minn.-If a pet of yours ever went missing, you know how much panic that can create for you and your family. A Northland Facebook page, which just passed 8,000 followers, is continuing to ease some of that anxiety by helping you find your lost pet. “Missing Pets in the Northland,” which was started in 2016, has found countless pets…

Superior man Sentenced to 50 Years for Felony Child Sexual Assault

DNA Testing was not Possible in This Case

SUPERIOR, Wis. – A Superior man was given a 50 year prison sentence Wednesday on charges of first-degree child sexual assault-intercourse with an underage relative. Judge Kelly Thimm sentenced Godfrey LaBonte to 50 years in prison structured as 35 years of initial confinement and 15 years of extended supervision. According to the Douglas County District Attorney’s Office the victim disclosed…

Rukavina Funeral Services to be Held on Saturday

Rukavina Passed Away on Monday

VIRGINIA, Minn. – Services for beloved former politician Tom Rukavina, 68, will be held on Saturday January 19 at Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Virginia. According to his obituary, the service will begin at 11:00 a.m. Visitation will be held on Friday January 18 at Range Funeral Home from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and will continue at 9:30 a.m….

Pedestrian hit by Vehicle in Denfeld Neighborhood

Alcohol is not Believed to be a Factor

DULUTH, Minn. – A female pedestrian was transported to St. Mary’s Hospital after being hit by a vehicle in the Denfeld neighborhood. Authorities say they responded to a call of a vehicle hitting a woman at the intersection of Grand Avenue and North 40th Avenue West Wednesday afternoon. The driver was traveling northbound on 40th Avenue West and struck the…

Evers Says he Will Order Change in ‘Stance’ in Lawsuit

MADISON, Wis. – Gov. Tony Evers says he will be sending a letter to Attorney General Josh Kaul this week calling for Wisconsin to “change our stance” in a multi-state lawsuit seeking repeal of the federal health care law. Evers campaigned on withdrawing from the lawsuit, but after he won the lame-duck Republican Legislature changed the law to require legislative…

Final Candidates set for District 11 Senate Seat

Lee Will Face Lourey in January 22 DFL Primary

DULUTH, Minn. – Republican Party nominee Jason Rarick is advancing to the special election on February 5. Republican candidates Justin Kyrch, Matthias Shir and Carl Pederson dropped out of the race earlier this week. Former Duluth news personality and Democrat Michelle Lee has entered the race for the Minnesota District 11 state senate seat that represents Carlton and Pine Counties….

Registration Now Open for Hartley Nature Center Winter Celebration

The 13th Annual Winter Celebration is Happening Saturday, January 19 at Hartley Nature Center in Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. – Staff at Hartley Nature Center in Duluth invite adventurous Northlanders to register now for the 13th annual Candlelight Ski, Skate and Snowshoe event. The wintertime fun is happening Saturday, January 19 from 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. This event celebrates the cold weather season, silent woods, white snow, ice ponds and groomed trails that come with it….

Suspect in Violent Park Point Attack Charged With Felony Assault and Robbery

A GoFundMe has been set up for the Victim

Darrel MayhewDULUTH, Minn. – Formal charges have been filed against 30-year-old Darrel Mayhew who is accused of violently attacking a 70-year-old man and breaking into several homes in the Park Point neighborhood last week. Mayhew is charged with first-degree assault, first-degree aggravated robbery and first-degree burglary. According to the criminal complaint, officers were dispatched to the 800 block of South…

Shopko Supplier Says Retailer Will Soon File for Bankruptcy

Shopko Expected to File January 15

ASHWAUBENON, Wis. – A pharmaceutical drug supplier to Shopko says the Wisconsin-based retail chain is expected to file for bankruptcy next week. McKesson Corp. says it supplied Shopko with $67 million in drugs since Nov. 11 but has not been paid since early December. McKesson this week asked a judge for a restraining order to keep Shopko from selling the…

Winter Rover Program Gets Kiddos Outside For Learning & Fun!

Great Outdoors: Lake Superior Estuarium Hosts 2 Free Events At Barkers Island For Preschoolers & Kindergarteners

SUPERIOR, Wisc. — The Winter Rovers Program brings kiddos ages 3-7 together outside to learn! It’s like an old fashioned play date hosted by the Lake Superior Estuarium. “We are just trying to connect them to the community in the area and then also get them outside.” explained intern Megan Hogfeldt. “Show them some fun things that they can do…

Ice Rinks Ready to Go in Superior

Outdoor rinks are open in Superior.

SUPERIOR, Wis.-Outdoor rinks are open in Superior. A total of seven rinks opened up this week and will continue that way until temperatures warm up. Parks and rec staff told us the warm temperatures affected setting up the rinks, along with the lack of snow in Superior. “A lot of it was just a lack of snow starting off ……

Next Generation of Workers Prepare for Future

Students network and learn about potential career paths at Greenway High School.

COLERAINE, Minn.- When we’re young, we’re all asked the same question: What do you want to be when you grow up? But not every student at Greenway High School had an answer, so the question hits a little close to home. “If a student knows their pathway in eighth or ninth grade or maybe even an interest, that’s going to help…

Second Homicide in Two Weeks Leaves Hibbing Anxious

Families Start Locking Doors, Looking After Kids Outside

HIBBING, Minn.- The city of Hibbing is on edge after Hibbing Police make three arrests in the suspected murder of 33-year-old Joshua Lavalley of Aurora. Formal charges are pending against two men, 18 and 20, as well as a 17-year-old female all from Hibbing. Meanwhile residents, especially those who exercise on the Mesabi Trail, are shaken up. “We go running…

Local Church in Duluth Becomes Dementia Friendly

Hillside United Methodist Churh has shorter services for people living with Dementia.

  DULUTH, Minn.- About every 60 seconds someone in the United States develops dementia, according to the Alzheimer’s Association. Now a Duluth organization is working to make the community more aware of the disease. Dementia friendly Duluth has worked with multiple Northland organizations in the past to raise awareness for dementia They are now taking aim at local churches including…

Mayor Gives Annual Chamber Speech

It’s a new year and new challenges await the city of Duluth.

DULUTH, Minn.-It’s a new year and new challenges await the city of Duluth. Mayor Emily Larson held her annual Chamber of Commerce speech today where she said the city has been dealt some blows during the past year, including all the damage on the Lakewalk, but the city is on the rise. She pointed to the Northland economy as one…

Douglas County Anticipates Big Anniversaries in 2019

Northland Uncovered: The Douglas County Historical Society is preparing for the big anniversaries coming in 2019.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- Douglas County Historical Society is busy at work preparing for 2019 in honor of its big anniversaries. “It’s important to look at what we did in the past to maybe not make some mistakes in the future,” DCHS business manager Jon Winter said. In 2019, the city of Superior will have plenty to look back on. 3 major…

Many Members of Minnesota Delegation to Donate Shutdown pay

MINNEAPOLIS – Several members of Minnesota’s congressional delegation say they’ll donate their pay to charity during the partial federal government shutdown. Reps. Pete Stauber, a Republican, and Angie Craig, a Democrat, said Monday they would donate their salaries during the shutdown . Stauber plans to donate his pay to the Domestic Abuse Intervention Programs in Duluth. Craig says she’ll donate…

Minnesota Twins to Retire Mauer’s No. 7 on June 15

More Details to be Announced Later

MLBMINNEAPOLIS – The Minnesota Twins have set the date for retiring Joe Mauer’s No. 7 jersey. The Twins announced Tuesday that Mauer’s number will be retired in a pregame ceremony at Target Field on “Joe Mauer Day” on Saturday, June 15. The event will take place before the Twins’ 6:10 p.m. game against Kansas City. More details will be announced…

UPDATE: Three Arrested in the Murder of Aurora man

This is an Active Investigation

HIBBING, Minn. – Authorities announced Tuesday afternoon that three people have been arrested in the murder of 33-year-old Joshua Robert Lavalley. According to Hibbing Police an 18-year-old male and 20-year-old male were arrested Monday night and booked in the St. Louis County Jail. A 17-year-old female was arrested on Tuesday. Police were called to the Mesabi Trail east of Kerr…

Democrat Hortman Elected House Speaker

Hortman was Elected House Speaker

(Twitter)ST. PAUL, Minn. -The 2019 Minnesota Legislature is in session. The House and its new Democratic majority were called to order around noon Tuesday, while the Senate, where Republicans hold a two-vote majority, convened soon afterward. The opening day floor sessions were devoted to formalities and organizational matters, including the election of Democrat Melissa Hortman as House speaker. Dozens of…

UPDATE: Teen Arrested in Possible Connection to Mesabi Trail Homicide

The is an Active Investigation

HIBBING, Minn. – According to a recent StarTribune article, authorities have arrested an 18-year-old male on suspicion of second degree murder in the death of a man found on the Mesabi Trail. Police were called to the Mesabi Trail east of Kerr on Sunday afternoon after a snowmobiler came upon the body and called 911. Authorities determined the male to…

Adventure Awaits with The Duluth Experience this Winter

Dave Grandmaison with The Duluth Experience Talks About Upcoming Winter Excursions in the Northland

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth Experience offers a wide variety of unique adventures for every season in the Northland. This winter, Co-Founder and CEO of The Duluth Experience, Dave Grandmaison, is excited to share a new Curling and Brews Experience. This adventure allows thrill seekers the opportunity to learn how to curl, then enjoy a great local brew from Ursa…

2019 Edition of the Minnesota Legislature Convenes at Noon

Dem Leaders Will Unveil First 10 Bills Wednesday

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Democrats will take control of the Minnesota House when the 2019 Legislature convenes at noon. Democrats gained 18 seats in the November elections to win the House with a 75-59 majority. Senate Republicans hold a narrow two-seat majority going into the session. Their leaders plan a news conference Tuesday morning to unveil their first five bills…

Trump to Take his Case to Build Wall to Prime-Time Audience

The Speech Will Take Place at 9:00 p.m. ET Tuesday

WASHINGTON – With no breakthrough in sight, President Donald Trump is set to argue in a prime-time address that a “crisis” at the U.S.-Mexico border requires the wall he’s demanding before ending the partial government shutdown. Trump’s speech on Tuesday night will be followed by his visit Thursday to the southern border. White House press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders tweeted…

Coast Guard Commences Annual Ice-Breaking Operation

Various Waterways may Close in Coming Weeks

SAULT STE MARIE, Mich – An annual ice-breaking effort is starting on waterways in and around northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula. The U.S. Coast Guard Sector Sault Ste. Marie says Operation Taconite commenced Monday in response to expanded ice growth in commercial ports along western Lake Superior and the St. Marys River in the eastern Upper Peninsula. Operation Taconite…

Grant Awarded to CASDA for Victims with Pets

A 12,000 grant will cover food and vet costs for foster family.

  SUPERIOR, Wis.- A grant for More than $12,000 was awarded to the Center Against Sexual and Domestic Abuse for their Twin Ports Pet Housing Program geared towards victims with pets. Studies show about 50% of domestic violence victims reported delay leaving their abuser in fear of their pets being harmed. While the victims find permanent housing, their pets will…

Minnesota Remembers Longtime Political Leader Tom Rukavina

DULUTH, Minn. – Minnesota is remembering the life of longtime Minnesota politician and Northland leader Tom Rukavina who particularly always fought hard for Iron Range workers. The 68-year-old from Virginia died Monday after a battle with leukemia. Rukavina, who was known for his passion and feistiness at times, served on the Minnesota House of Representatives for 26 years. He most…

Knowing Your Neighbors: Warming Up the Homeless

Ruth House Opens as Warming Center

SUPERIOR, Wis.- As the frigid air of night sets in, the question of where to sleep enters the minds of the homeless in Duluth and Superior. Places like CHUM or Solid Rock often fill up quickly, leaving them with almost no options. Until now. The Ruth House in Superior is offering warmth, and care, to anyone who needs it during Northland…

Cloquet Public Library Continues Towards Expansion

The library is working to get the funds it needs for the project

CLOQUET, Minn.- A central hub for the Cloquet community is doing its best to get a makeover. The public library is working hard to get the money it needs to invest in an expansion project almost a decade in the making. A seven thousand square foot expansion would cost roughly $2 million dollars. The library previously received a grant of $784…