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Minnesota Department of Health Commissioner Resigning After Senior Care Lapses

Official Government PhotoST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) – Minnesota’s Department of Health commissioner is resigning. Gov. Mark Dayton’s office announced Tuesday that Commissioner Ed Ehlinger would step down. Ehlinger had been head of the state’s health oversight board since 2011. The announcement didn’t specify why Ehlinger was resigning but it follows reporting by the Star Tribune on serious oversight lapses of…

Maple School District to Have Referendum Vote in April

Maple School District Wants $600,000 A Year Over Three Years

MAPLE, Wis.-Maple School District is asking its residents to vote in favor of a referendum in April. They are asking the public for about $600,000 a year over the next three years to help maintain some of its current programming and staff. They had initially asked for $1.7 million a year over a five-year period, but the public didn’t support…

LOCATED: Alyssa Leonardis, of Lauderdale

UPDATE: Alyssa Leonardis was located safe and uninjured, according to the BCA. Alyssa Leonardis LAUDERDALE, Minn. – The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension is seeking the public’s assistance in locating a vulnerable adult that walked away from her group home on Sunday, Dec. 17, 2017. Alyssa Leonardis, 21 is described as 5’2″, 220 pounds, short brown hair. Last seen wearing…

Amtrak train found to be traveling 80 mph in a 30 mph zone

(Elaine Thompson via AP) DUPONT, Wash. (AP) — Investigators are looking into whether the Amtrak engineer whose speeding train plunged off an overpass, killing at least three people, was distracted by the presence of an employee-in-training next to him in the locomotive, a federal official said Tuesday. The official, who was not authorized to discuss the matter publicly and spoke…

Minnesota Woman Pleads Guilty to Boyfriend’s Death in YouTube Stunt

Monalisa Perez HALSTAD, Minn. (AP) – A Minnesota woman has pleaded guilty to fatally shooting her boyfriend in a videotaped stunt they planned to post to YouTube. Monalisa Perez, 20, pleaded guilty last week to second-degree manslaughter in the June death of 22-year-old Pedro Ruiz III, The Star Tribune reported. Perez has two young children with Ruiz. Perez told investigators…

St. Louis County Board Approves 2018 Budget

St. Louis County serves 200,000 residents spread across 7.000 square miles

DULUTH, Minn. – The St. Louis County Board has unanimously approved its 2018 budget. The budget, $397,918,261, will direct additional resources to substance abuse and mental health, in addition to the funding of core services including public health and human services, public works, tax payer services and public safety. The budget will also make additional investments to support families providing…

Latest: House Forced to Revote on GOP Tax Bill Wednesday

4:50 p.m. Democrats say three provisions in the Republican $1.5 trillion tax bill violate Senate rules and will likely be removed before that chamber votes on the measure. The House approved the legislation Tuesday. But this means the House will have to vote again on the legislation once it’s been amended and approved by the Senate. Senate passage was expected…

Bear Attacks Two Near Isabella

Bear Was Eventually Put Down

ISABELLA, Minn.-A 200-pound female black bear attacked two people at a residence on McDougal Lake in Isabella, at about 10:30 a.m. today. Two construction workers were working on a garage in that area when a bear attacked them, leaving one of them with a bite on his arm. He was taken to a local hospital where he is expected to…

Lake Superior Art Glass Gives Options for Creative Gifts

Artists Teach Several Glass Blowing Classes

DULUTH, Minn. – With less than a week until Christmas Day, it is time to finish Christmas gift shopping. Some local shops are happy to help with that. One in Duluth is Lake Superior Art Glass. Their gallery features the work of more than 60 artists. Classes are also offered for patrons. Currently, several classes are taught each week. Lake…

Duluth Pack Marks 135 Years in Business

Northland Uncovered: Duluth Pack

DULUTH, Minn. – The Northland is full of history and stories of how the area was developed. One local company got its start helping the men who built the area. Duluth Pack is the oldest canvas and leather pack and bag maker in the United States. The company is now marking a milestone by celebrating 135 years in Duluth. The…

Fire Breaks Out at Rainy Lake Oil Company Facility

No Injuries Were Reported from the Fire

INTERNATIONAL FALLS, Minn. – A fire broke out Monday evening shortly after 7:00 at the Rainy Lake Oil Company operations and office in International Falls. The fire is contained and there is no threat to other nearby structures. No injuries were reported from the fire. Fire officials from the International Falls Rural Fire Units and International Falls City Fire Trucks…

This Year’s Salvation Army Seasonal Campaigns Will Soon Be Over

Super One Foods Will Match Up to $50,000 for Red Kettle Campaign

DULUTH, Minn. – Only six days left for this season’s Salvation Army Red Kettle Drive. Super One Foods is helping by agreeing to match up to $50,000. The match will happen at thirteen Super One Locations in Duluth, Superior, Two Harbors, Cloquet and the Iron Range. Salvation Army officials say the match will go a long way in helping them…

Officer-Involved Shooting Inside Minneapolis City Hall

MINNEAPOLIS (KMSP) – An officer-involved shooting at Minneapolis City Hall is under investigation after police shot and wounded a man inside an interview room. The shooting happened just before 5 p.m. inside Room 108, which is home to multiple Minneapolis Police Department investigative units. Minneapolis Police Chief Medaria Arradondo said the person investigators were interviewing was left alone in an interview…

Experts Warn Pets are More Than Presents

Experts warn Northlanders a lot of work and money goes into taking care of a pet.

DULUTH, Minn.- Seeing a puppy under a Christmas tree might be exciting but local veterinarians want to remind Northlanders, a pet is for life not just for Christmas. Experts told FOX21 gifting a pet as a surprise is not a responsible idea. The owner should be apart of the process by picking out a breed that fits their lifestyle. “What breed…

Ugly Christmas Sweaters Tradition and Competition in Northland

Do you have your ugly Christmas sweater picked out?

DULUTH, Minn.- Shops and homes around the Northland are dressed in the holiday spirit, another popular way to go all out this season is an ugly Christmas sweater. A shop manager told FOX21 ugly Christmas sweaters are a fun way to come together as a community. The decorative clothing are popular for holiday gatherings. “Some people have contests; to see…

The Duluth Bethel Receives Grant to Preserve History

The non-profit is asking the public to donate items in remembrance of the Bethel.

DULUTH, Minn.-  The Duluth Bethel has been serving the Twin Ports for 144 years, with the help of a state grant the non–profit is hoping to preserve its history. The Bethel received $7,650 grant from the Minnesota Historical Society. Now the non–profit is asking Northlanders to share their memories of the Bethel. The donations could include photographs, books, and recordings….

Twitter Suspends White Nationalists As It Enforces New Rules

NEW YORK (AP) — Twitter suspended the accounts of well-known white nationalists Monday, moving swiftly to enforce its new rules aimed at reducing what it deems abusive content. The account of far-right group Britain First, a small group that regularly posts inflammatory videos purporting to show Muslims engaged in acts of violence, was among the first to go dark. The…

Hospice Nurse from Minnesota Missing After Leaving Denver Bar

Photo courtesy of helpfindadam.com DENVER (KMSP) – Members of a Minnesota family have flown to Colorado to help look for a 29-year-old man who went missing Friday after leaving a bar in Denver. Adam Gilbertson was last seen the Syntax Physic Opera Bar & Restaurant shortly before 1 a.m. on Friday. His cellphone has been shut off and attempts to reach him…

US Judge Steps Down After Accusations of Sexual Misconduct

(Fox News) SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — A prominent U.S. appeals court judge announced his retirement Monday days after women alleged he subjected them to inappropriate sexual conduct or comments. Judge Alex Kozinski of the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals said in a statement that a battle over the accusations would not be good for the judiciary. He said he’ll…

Epic Restaurant and Lounge Announces It Will Close Saturday

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Epic Restaurant and Lounge announced they will be closing the restaurant on Saturday, Dec. 23. The announcement came on their Facebook page Monday. “Unfortunately, for both business and personal reasons we find that we need to close our doors to regular dining business on the close of business on Saturday evening, 12/23/17,” the Facebook post stated. Epic…

Special Angling Regulations Announced by MnDNR

MINNESOTA – Special fishing regulations will change March 1 on a number of Minnesota waters following an annual public input and review process, according to the Department of Natural Resources. “Anglers need to know special regulations because they take precedence over statewide regulations,” said Al Stevens, fisheries program consultant with the DNR. “We have special regulations to improve fish populations…

Level III Predatory Offender Relocating to Virginia

Adam Hart (Virginia PD) VIRGINIA, Minn. – The Virginia Police Department is notifying the public of a Level III Predatory Offender that has relocated to Virginia. Thirty-two-year-old Adam Samuel Hart has relocated to the 300 block of Chestnut Street. Hart has a history of sexual contact with adolescent females between the age of 13-17. Contact has included sexual touching and…

Deadline Approaches for MNsure Enrollment

Last day to enroll is Wednesday, Dec. 20 to Receive Coverage By January 1st

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) – Minnesota residents who buy health insurance on the individual market have until Wednesday to enroll in the state-run health care exchange if they want to be covered by January 1. The Pioneer Press reports that MNsure will have extended hours at its call center and a 24-hour online availability as the deadline approaches. Residents have…

Last Days to Vote for Christmas Light Displays

Lighting Challenge Winners Announced Friday

DULUTH, Minn. – With one week until Christmas, snow on the ground, lights on homes and decorations in yards, it’s not hard to tell many Northlanders are in the holiday spirit. One tradition keeping that spirit thriving is the Christmas Lighting Challenge. The challenge is put on by A Sweet Event and this year more than 80 homes are involved….

18 Year-Old Eveleth Woman Dies After Snowmobile Accident

ORR, Minn. – An 18-year-old Eveleth woman is dead after a snowmobile accident northwest of Orr, Minnesota, according to the St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office. According to authorities, the incident happened around 6:42 a.m. at the intersection of Lost River Road and Ash Lake Camp Road. When authorities arrived on scene they found a single snowmobile with two occupants had…

St. Luke’s Cardiologist Gives Heart Health Tips for Winter Months

Avoiding Heart Attacks in the Snow

DULUTH, Minn. – With recent snowfall and more in the forecast, doctors are giving warnings for those headed outside. Without previous exercise, many bodies aren’t ready for snowy conditions. Dr. Disha Mookherjee with St. Luke’s Cardiology Associates says some elderly patients can find themselves shoveling 16-20 pounds of snow as they take on the responsibilities of being a homeowner. Dr….

Amtrak Train Hurtles Off Overpass; At Least 6 People Killed

RACHEL LA CORTE - AP

Courtesy: FOX NewsDUPONT, Wash. (AP) — An Amtrak train making the first-ever run along a faster new route hurtled off an overpass Monday near Tacoma and spilled some of its cars onto the highway below, killing at least six people, authorities said. The death toll was expected to rise. Seventy-eight passengers and five crew members were aboard when the train…

Man and Dog Die of Apparent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Generator Named As Likely Source of CO

SAGINAW, Minn. – A Northeastern Minnesota man has died of suspected carbon monoxide poisoning in a cabin. St. Louis County sheriff’s authorities say their office responded Saturday afternoon to a report of an unresponsive male in the Saginaw area. Authorities arrived and found the body of 46-year-old Stanley Skare of Saginaw. Stanley Skare (GoFundMe) His dog also was found dead…

Brookston Home Destroyed By Fire

One Person Escaped Without Injuries

A family home has been destroyed in Brookston after a fire broke out there Sunday afternoon. St. Louis County deputies and local fire departments responded a report of a fire at 4792 Stevens road in Brookston. When they arrived the house was engulfed in flames, its now been deemed a total loss. One person was at home during the fire,…

Scuba Santa Dives Into the Northland

Under the Bright Nights promotion you can get an admission discount

DULUTH, Minn. -Santa Claus came all the way from the North Pole and made a stop at the Great Lakes Aquarium in Duluth. This is the first year the Aquarium has featured something like this. It’s a community effort, because volunteers from all over the state help make this possible. In order to scuba dive, Santa must have cold water…

Highland String Quartet Performs At United Protestant Church

United Protestant Church has been around since Morgan Park was built

DULUTH, Minn. -The pews at the United Protestant Church were filled for a joyful performance. Bill Bastian and the Highland String Quartet set the tone at the annual concert. The church is celebrating 100 years and Chester Johnson has been a member for about 80. He says the concert a tradition that the people appreciate. “We like to be prominent…

Story of Jesus Comes Alive At United Church of Two Harbors

Once the scene ends darkness comes so characters can switch the scene

TWO HARBORS, Minn. -The story of the birth of Jesus has been told many times and for the last three years the United Church of Two Harbors has brought that story to life. The woman behind this live story says she was wanted to bring it to Two Harbors because it didn’t exist. The birth of Jesus is depicted in one…

Christmas City Express Train Ride Closes Its Season

According to Train Museum Officials, About 1,000 Passengers Rode Each Week

DULUTH, Minn. – The Lake Superior Railroad Museum just had the final night of their holiday train ride. At the event, families watch a performance of the “Christmas City Express” story acted out by the authors and Santa Claus. Then, they board a decorated train and ride it from the Depot to Fitger’s and back, passing Bentleyville along the way….

Hermantown Community Church Lights It Up

The light show began on Dec. 1 and at least 700 cars have showed up since then

HERMANTOWN, Minn. -Hermantown is a city of lights. The Hermantown Community Church wanted to spread Christmas joy with a colorful blessing. You can sit in your car, sip hot chocolate or apple cider and watch the lights in sync with Christmas music. “One of the things we wanted to see and has been happening is just kind of an opportunity for families to…

Handmade Holiday Market on Display in Lincoln Park

More Than 30 Artisans Showed Off Their Unique Products

DULUTH, Minn. – The Handmade Holiday Market in Lincoln Park was the place to shop local for the holidays on Saturday. More than thirty vendors showcased their creations at the Duluth Folk School and Duluth Pottery. Shoppers could find anything from porcupine earrings to locally brewed coffee. “A month ago, we didn’t even know we were doing this and somebody…

Superior Community Rallies Around Family For A Christmas Surprise

SUPERIOR, Wis. -The Superior High School class of 1993 is a tight knit group even after 24 years. So when they learned that a friend’s cancer spread they took action. “You see somebody in trouble, you see somebody hurting you want to help,” said Brian Lammi, Lynn Rae’s classmate. Classmates set up an online fundraiser. “Honestly within four hours we…

Cathedral School Gives Back to Hurricane Victims

Students sorted the clothing by gender and age group

SUPERIOR, Wis. – It’s been a little over three months since hurricanes devastated parts of Texas, Florida and Puerto Rico and these students were ready to step up and help. One by one these fifth graders loaded up a truck that is an example of the fruits of their labor. Nineteen students in Amber Nielsen’s class collected boxes of clothing,…

Johnson’s Bakery Preparing for Holiday Rush

Johnson's Bakery Has Been a Part of the Northland for 72 Years

DULUTH, Minn. – There’s an increase of busy bakeries in the Northland this time of year. One of those bakeries happens to be Johnson’s Bakery in West Duluth. For the past 72 years, Johnson’s has been a staple in many Northland homes. Owner Scott Johnson and his staff are busy every day mixing up and baking thousands of cookies and…

Local Organizations Join Forces For Veterans In Need

Kern and Kompany, Bong Veterans Center and the St. Louis County Veterans Service Office all helped with transportation costs.

DULUTH, Minn. -Four thousand homeless or low income veterans who may not know where their next meal is coming from are getting assistance this holiday season. Kern and Kompany and the Duluth Airshow is partnering with the Bong Veterans Center and the St. Louis County Veterans Service Office to provide Northland veterans with food. “The hope is that we’re going…

Little Northlanders Shop at Holly Jolly

The Holly Jolly Santa Shop helps Northland families put presents under the tree.

DULUTH, Minn.- Little Northlanders in Lincoln Park crossed off all the items off their holiday shopping list. The shoppers attended the 6th annual Holly Jolly Santa Shop at First Covenant Church in Duluth. With around 1,000 donated gifts, and the help of little elves, children go around.. picking out presents for their family. Coordinators said the annual event helps families in need…

Road Safety Tips for the Winter Season

Local law enforcement remind Northlanders of safe winter driving tips.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- Police are offering Northlanders some safety tips when going out in wintry roads and holiday traffic. Local law enforcement want to remind Northlanders during the winter, always give yourself extra time to reach your destination. Taking it slow on the roads will help ensure safety. The snowy conditions can cause may issues. “With snowbanks, also comes pedestrian issues,”…

APEX Donates Winter Gear to Working Students

Northland students are receiving hands on experience out in wintry conditions.

HERMANTOWN, Minn.-  Northland high school students are working on a construction project, but with the temperatures getting chillier a local group of business leaders are ensuring students have the necessities. Members of the Area Partnership for Economic Expansion donated winter gear to students in the construction technology program. The students are working in the Northland’s wintry conditions. The bibs, gloves and…