Minnesota

Coffee Conversation: Junk Food Film Festival Hits Zeitgeist Zinema This Weekend

DULUTH, Minn. — The Junk Food Film Festival is taking over the Zeitgeist Zinema in Duluth on May 16 and 17, serving up two days of bold, bizarre, and wildly fun films. Matthew Dressel joined the FOX 21 Morning Show to talk more about the festival and what audiences can expect. From cult classics to underground oddities, this event comes…

Camp House and Jenkins Creek Wildfires Burn Slow, But Just Miles Apart

The Eastern Area Complex Incident Management Team said at Thursday's press conference that the fires are not contained, but their growth is slow

TWO HARBORS, Minn. – Eastern Area Complex Incident Management Team officials say the Camp House and Jenkins Creek wildfires have not grown as of Thursday, but remain just miles from one another. At a press conference held Thursday at the Two Harbors Fire Department, authorities provided the latest update on the Camp House and Jenkins Creek wildfires. Collectively referred to…

Walz Contrasts Minnesota’s Bipartisan Budget Breakthrough With Washington’s Deep Divisions

  ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — Gov. Tim Walz and leaders of the Minnesota Legislature announced a hard-fought budget deal Thursday, contrasting the bipartisan cooperation that produced the agreement with the deep divisions that have tied Washington in knots. The Democratic governor and former vice presidential candidate noted that he was sharply critical of President Donald Trump’s administration, and what…

Cirrus’ “Safe Return” Button Now On More Airplanes

DULUTH, Minn. – Cirrus Aircraft has announced their auto-land function is now coming to some of their propeller airplanes. The “safe return” button on the plane allows passengers to hit an emergency button if the pilot become incapacitated.  The aircraft will then the navigate to a suitable nearby airport and land autonomously.  It’s the first time the FAA has allowed…

Second Harvest Northland Shows Off New Headquarters

DULUTH, Minn. – Second Harvest Northland held a walk-through of its new facility at the Atlas Industrial Site in the western edge of Duluth. The facility has a 13,600 square-foot freezer and cooler addition to help provide fresher and more nutritional foods to those in need. Second Harvest says demand is increasing, especially with inflation. “Certainly, we know, with everything…

Dunkin’ Donuts and Cops Raise Funds for Special Olympics

Image from last year’s #CopOnARooftop DULUTH, Minn — Your morning coffee could contribute to a good cause! Dunkin’ Donuts and local law enforcement agencies are partnering for #CopOnARooftop. Duluth Police will be at the Duluth Dunkin’ for the event, but the fundraiser spans much of the Midwest. Proceeds will go towards the states Special Olympics. In Minnesota, the event has…

Cirrus Announces SR Series G7+ Featuring Safe Return™

DULUTH, Minn. — Cirrus Aircraft has announced their “auto-land” function is now coming to some of their propeller airplanes. The “safe return” button on the plane allows passengers to hit an emergency button if the pilot become incapacitated… The aircraft will the navigate to a suitable nearby airport and land on its own. It’s the first time FAA has allowed…

United Airlines to add new flight from Duluth

United Airlines Logo DULUTH, Minn. – United Airlines will add a fourth daily flight to Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) beginning June 1 through July 30, 2025. The added flight comes ahead of the previously scheduled increase, which was set to begin July 1 and continue through October. In a news release Executive Director of the Duluth International Airport Tom…

Munger Shaw Wildfire Begins To Slow Down

Munger Shaw Fire (Northland Fire Wire) COTTON, Minn. — The Munger Shaw wildfire, which has burned 1,600 acres, slowed down on Thursday. Lower humidity, reduced winds, and higher humidity have helped with slowing fire growth. according to officials. Firefighters are now able to focus their time on building and strengthening dozer lines and securing the fire perimeter. Severe thunderstorms and…

Rumors of a Federal Pardon for Derek Chauvin

MINNESOTA — The five-year anniversary of George Floyd’s murder is coming later this month on May 25th. And with that, there are concerns President Donald Trump might issue his convicted killer — Derek Chauvin — a pardon. Trump has not given any public indication he would pardon the former Minneapolis police officer. But rumors persist. Chauvin is currently in federal…

Burn area acreage reduced

Smoke from the Camp House Fire seen above the trees along Highway 16 near Highway 44. DULUTH, Minn. – As of Thursday morning (5/1/2025), the burning area of the Brimson Complex wildfire (Camp House/Jenkins combined) has changed due to drone mapping. The Camp House fire’s burning estimate is 14,979 acres and the Jenkins Creek fire estimate is 15,571 acres. The…

Munger Shaw Wildfire Shuts Down Roads, Prompts Evacuations into Thursday

CANYON, Minn. – Thursday’s weather forecast prompts evacuation requests for some residents near the Munger Shaw wildfire, sheriffs say. The Munger Shaw wildfire, burning roughly 45 minutes north of Duluth, showed only “minimal growth” on Wednesday, according to the St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office. Traffic continued to be limited or blocked throughout the day on Munger Shaw, Three Lakes, and…

Sheriff Offers Likely Causes Of 3 St. Louis County Wildfires

DULUTH, Minn. — There were no official causes of the three wildfires burning in St. Louis County Wednesday, but Sheriff Gordon Ramsay is offering his likely causes for the wildfires that have burned more than 35,000 acres. The Camp House wildfire appears to have been started by an unattended campfire, according to Ramsay. The DNR is said to have identified…

Air quality alert extended for northeast Minnesota

Photo CourtesyMinnesota National Guard DULUTH, Minn. – The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) has extended an air quality alert for northeast Minnesota until 4 p.m. on Thursday, May 15. The Camp House and Jenkins Creek fires in the Superior National Forest remain active and will continue to produce heavy ground-level smoke through Thursday. The affected area includes International Falls, Hibbing,…

NORTHLAND: Two Major Wildfires Expand to Over 35,000 Acres

From wildfire.gov, Image by T. Krueger Northland, MN — Two major wildfires continue to burn in northeastern Minnesota, prompting evacuations and drawing additional firefighting resources to the region. As of Wednesday morning, the Jenkins Creek Fire in St. Louis County has grown to 20,593 acres, while the Camp House Fire near Brimson is now reported at 14,979 acres. The Jenkins…

Coffee Conversation: Duluth Art Institute Annual Member Show

DULUTH, Minn. — Now through June 9, the Duluth Art Institute’s Annual Member Show is on display, celebrating the vibrant and diverse talents of local artists across a wide range of mediums. Christina Woods, Executive Director of the Duluth Art Institute (DAI), joined the broadcast to share details about the community exhibit. The Annual Member Show features around 140 works…

FOX 21 9 P.M. Wildfire Coverage: May 13, 2025

DULUTH, Minn. —  Click the video above to watch the first 15 minutes of FOX 21’s 9 p.m. wildfire coverage from Tuesday, May 13.   Topics covered included the latest acres burned, an update on firefighting efforts from Incident Command in Two Harbors, and what St. Louis County Sheriff Gordon Ramsay believes caused the three separate wildfires that continued to burn…

Students Race in Fit-N-Fun Run

DULUTH, Minn. — Duluth Students raced in the annual Essentia health Fit N Fun Run. Students between third and fifth grade ran the quarter-mile race. Each student received a ribbon and commemorative T-shirt. Families and other students were also able to cheer classmates on. “I think it’s really great to have kids be part of this race style atmosphere, especially…

Seagull Outfitters Under New Ownership

COOK COUNTY, Minn. — Seagull Outfitters and Cabins has new owners. Grant and Christina Hopke purchased the well-loved Boundary Waters outfitter. According to the press release, they have a deep respect for the traditions of the outfitter and the area. Grant worked there previously during college and bonded with the staff, guests, land and waters. As they prepare for their…

Superior National Forest Closing Areas Around Brimson Due To Fire

Superior National Forest Brimson Complex Fire Area Closure DULUTH, Minn. – Due to the Brimson Complex fires (Camp House & Jenkins Creek fires) on the Superior National Forest (SNF) is closing a portion of the Laurentian Ranger District. Forest Supervisor Tom Hall elected to close visitor entry at campsites, recreation sites, trails, roads and lakes. The areas including range from near…

140 Structures Destroyed In Camp House Fire

Camp House Fire Damage BRIMSON, Minn. – The St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office say, as of Tuesday afternoon, “approximately 140 structures” have been destroyed in the Camp House wildfire. The fire has spread to more than 12,000 acres. The road closure on Hwy 44 from Rollins Road (Hugo’s Bar) to Townline Road is still in effect. Sheriff’s deputies and the…

Regional Group To Take Over Minnesota Wildfire Fighting

DULUTH, Minn. – State and local fire teams have been leading the battle against the Camp House and Jenkins Creek fires since they broke out on Sunday and Monday respectively. Jenkins Creek fire in the distance. Camp House fire in the forefront. That will change the morning of Wednesday, May 14. The Eastern Area Complex Incident Management Team will assume…

Camp House Fire Nears 12,000 Acres With No Containment

BRIMSON, MN – The Camp House Fire, burning north of Brimson since Sunday, May 11, has grown to 11,778 acres with 0% containment. The fire remains active and unpredictable, fueled by dry conditions and spruce budworm-infested forests. What Northlanders Need to Know: Fire Status: Crews continue aggressive suppression efforts, protecting nearby structures. Yesterday’s fire activity included torching and spot fires….

80 Wildfires Around Minnesota

DULUTH, Minn. – The Minnesota Interagency Fire Center in a news release says since Sunday (May 11), firefighters have responded to approximately 80 wildfires throughout Minnesota. Camp House Fire Monday (FOX 9) Three big wildfires are burning in Northeast Minnesota. As of Tuesday morning the information on the fires include: Camp House Fire Developed May 11, 2025. Currently 11,778  acres…

Lowell Elementary Teacher Named 2025 Goldfine Gold Star Teacher

Lowell Elementary teacher Megan Bennett, center, reacts after being named the 2025 Goldfine Gold Star Teacher Monday, May 12, 2025, at Lincoln Park Middle School. (Adelle Wellens, Duluth Public Schools) DULUTH, Minn. – Lowell Elementary first grade Spanish teacher Megan Bennett was named this year’s Goldfine Gold Star Teacher during a ceremony Monday, Manley and Lillian Goldfine established the Goldfine…

Bait and Tackle Shops Busy for Minnesota Fishing Opener

FREDENBURG, Minn. –In the Land of 10,000 Lakes, the fishing opener is like an unofficial holiday for Minnesotans. “It’s more than just a date on the calendar. It’s a tradition. It’s really kind of the kickoff to summer, it’s an essential part of being a Minnesotan,” Emily Manning, Fredenberg Minno-ette Inc. Store Manger said. Across the state, boaters hit the…

Coffee Conversation: UMD Career Specialist Shares Job Market Insight

DULUTH, Minn. — As graduation season kicks into high gear, many college seniors are feeling the pressure of entering a competitive and uncertain job market. On Tuesday, May 13, UMD Career Specialist Molly Stonesifer joined the FOX 21 Morning Newscast to offer valuable advice and encouragement for recent and soon-to-be graduates. Categories: Coffee Conversation, Minnesota, News, News – Latest News

Sheriff: 40-Plus Structures Destroyed In ‘Camp House’ Fire Near Brimson

As Tuesday morning, there were no reports of injuries of fatalities in the three active wildfires in St. Louis County.

CAMP HOUSE FIRE: Camp House Fire Monday (FOX 9) One day after a massive wildfire erupted near Brimson, officials reported Monday night that at least 40 structures had been destroyed by the Camp House wildfire. The St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office made that announcement about the losses in a news release around 10:30 p.m. The Camp House fire grew to…

Nearly 40 Residents Displaced After Apartment Bldg. Fire

MOOSE LAKE, Minn.– Four days after a fire affected the West Hillside Manor Apartment building in Moose Lake, nearly 40 residents have been evacuated. Hotels churches and shelters are stepping up to aid them during this difficult time. “It was midnight, all of a sudden fire strobe lights were going off and I flew out of bed. And went and…

Air Quality Alert Due To Wildfires In Northeast Minnesota

Air quality alert issued due to wildfire smoke for Monday, May 12, through Tuesday, May 13, for northeast Minnesota  

DULUTH, Minn. – The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) has issued an air quality alert for northeast Minnesota due to the wildfires in the area. Air Quality Alert (May 12 – May 13, 2025) Air quality is expected to reach the orange AQI category or worse. Orange is unhealthy for sensitive groups. Ely is in the middle of the Purple zone…

Minnesota National Guard Called to Help Fight Wildfires

ST. PAUL, Minn, – Governor Tim Walz has authorized the Minnesota National Guard to provide emergency assistance to help fight the Camp House wildfire in northern Minnesota. He signed an executive order for the National Guard to assist the Minnesota Interagency Fire Center with fire suppression efforts and assets. Governor Walz said in a news release, “Wildfires in northern Minnesota…

Flying into Celebrating World Migratory Bird Day

DULUTH, Minn.– The snow is melted, and the sun is shining that alone is something to celebrate. But with the turning of seasons, there was another special celebration. “It’s really important to highlight the really vital role that Minnesota and Northern Wisconsin along Lake Superior play for bird migration. And even just the interaction of the urban and rural with…

Highway 61 Construction Project Begins Between Grand Marais and Grand Portage

HOVLAND, Minn. — The Minnesota Department of Transportation started construction on a portion of Highway 61 on Monday, May 12. Crews will be completing culvert replacement work on the highway between Grand Marais and Grand Portage. The project will replace culverts at six locations around Hovland over two years. Starting Monday, traffic will be reduced to one lane near Myhr…

MN Camp House Fire Grows to 750 Acres; 0% Contained

Brimson, MN (May 12, 2025) – The Camp House Fire, reported Sunday afternoon north of Brimson, has burned approximately 750 acres and remains at 0% containment. DCIM100MEDIADJI_0453.JPG The blaze is threatening nearby structures and burning in dense, spruce budworm-infested forest near the Lake County boundary. Minnesota Incident Command Team C, led by Incident Commander Jeb Backe, assumed command at 7…

Coffee Conversation: Duluth’s Best Bread Wednesday Night Farmer’s Market

DULUTH, Minn. — It’s officially farmer’s market season — and this year, Duluth’s Best Bread is adding a fresh spin by hosting its own Wednesday night markets throughout May at both its Downtown Duluth and Superior locations. Co-owner Robert Lillegard appeared live on Fox 21’s morning show to share more about the event. The weekly market runs from 6:00 PM…

‘Rapidly Spreading’ Wildfire Reported Near Brimson; Dozens Of Residents Evacuate

AULT TOWNSHIP, Minnesota — Multiple fire agencies are battling a “rapidly spreading” wildfire around the 2200 block of Highway 44 in Ault Township near Brimson. Courtesy: April Schultz The call for help came in around 1:15 p.m. Sunday. The flames were traveling in a northeasterly direction through the woods. As of 10 p.m. Sunday, the fire was estimated to be…

Sheriff: Canoeist Found Dead While On Trip In BWCAW

The body of a canoeist was recovered Saturday afternoon from the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. United State Forest Service employees located a capsized canoe around 2:20 p.m. Saturday on Iron Lake, which is just north of Ely. “Upon investigating further, the USFS employees located a deceased individual and their gear floating near the canoe,” according to the St. Louis…

Duluth Farmers Market Opens for the Season

DULUTH, Minn. — One of the Northlands biggest signs of summer is here, and that’s the season opening of the Duluth Farmers Market. For over 100 years local farmers and crafters have been selling produce, plants, jewelry and much more at the market. Community members flocked to market for opening day, getting a taste of the produce to come throughout…

Anglers Hit the Water For 2025 Minnesota Fishing Opener

DULUTH, Minn. — Saturday kicked off the Minnesota fishing opener, and anglers took to the water in hopes of reeling in a big one. The fishing opener is like an unofficial holiday across the state. Hundreds of boaters hit the water looking for some of Minnesota’s most popular fish including walleye, bass, and northern pike. During the fishing opener almost…