Minnesota

Minnesota Supreme Court Reverses 3rd-Degree Murder Conviction of Former Minneapolis Police Officer

MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) – The Minnesota Supreme Court ruled to overturn the third-degree murder conviction of former Minneapolis police officer Mohamed Noor in the deadly 2017 shooting of Justine Ruszczyk Damond. During his trial Noor testified he feared an ambush when Damond walked up to the squad car and shot across his partner, killing the 40-year-old Australian woman. She had…

Duluth Art Institute to Mandate COVID-9 Vaccine

DULUTH, Minn. – Beginning Friday, the Duluth Art Institute will mandate COVID-19 vaccination for all students, event attendees, renting artists, teaching artists, and staff who enter any DAI spaces. “For the wellbeing of our community, it is necessary to do everything we can to preserve the health of all individuals who utilize our facilities, and setting a mandated standard is…

Shortage on ICU Beds in Twin Cities Has Ripple Effect on Rural Minnesota

(FOX 9) – As more hospital ICU beds fill up in the metro, it’s having a ripple effect on patient care in rural hospitals. Rural healthcare staff says they are scrambling to get patients in critical care the help they need fast enough because the resources are just not there. “Rural hospitals are designed for primary care and general surgery….

House Democrats Oust Embattled Lawmaker From Caucus

(courtesy: Fox 9) ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) – Minnesota House Democrats have voted to expel Rep. John Thompson from their caucus following allegations of domestic violence and questions about his residency. House leaders Tuesday night issued a statement saying that “Thompson’s actions, credible reports of abuse and misconduct, and his failure to take responsibility remain unacceptable for a member of…

Oktoberfest Setting Up in Bayfront Park As Volunteers Needed

According to organizers, they are now short about 20 volunteers each day.

DULUTH, Minn.- As setup gets underway at Bayfront Park for this weekend’s Duluth Oktoberfestival or Oktoberfest, event organizers say they’re in desperate need of volunteers. Organizer Ryan Kern says a group had to withdraw today due to an unexpected conflict. They are now short about 20 volunteers each day. Shifts are available during the day and evening and are only…

Pumpkin Patches are Popping up Across the Northland

DULUTH, Minn.- Pumpkins ga-lourd DC’s best produce has set up pumpkin stands across the Northland with a variety of pumpkins. Each stand includes a display of haystacks, fall decorations, and other seasonal vegetables to give people the full pumpkin patch experience. “Everybody absolutely loves it,” said produce seller Jack Pearodin. “We got so many different types of pumpkins, and squash…

Community Members Remember DTA Bus Crash Victim

DULUTH, Minn.- Sixty-four-year-old David Weston was well known for his daily visits to the mall and receiving services from the employment assistance organization CHOICE, Unlimited for nearly 20 years. David spent his time at the organization making friends through art. “He loved people, and he was an incredibly friendly person,” said Executive Director of CHOICE, Unlimited Kristie Buchman. “When I…

Duluth City Council Approves Funding to Help Downtown Duluth’s Disadvantaged

DULUTH, Minn.- After Monday night’s meeting, the Duluth City Council approved $300,000 in funding for the Greater Downtown Council to hire a social worker, who will help tackle homelessness and the mental health crisis in Downtown Duluth. Downtown Duluth has a large population of people facing drug addictions and mental health illnesses. Local businesses have noticed the physical and emotional…

Cloquet Police Investigating ‘Suspicious Death,’ Adult Male in Custody

CLOQUET, Minn. – The Cloquet Police Department says it is investigating the death of a man in an apartment complex for veterans on the Fond Du Lac Reservation that has been deemed “suspicious in nature.” According to police, officers with the Cloquet Police Department and Fond du Lac Police Department responded to reports of an unwanted person in an apartment…

Gunflint Trail Campgrounds, Recreation Areas in Superior National Forest To Reopen

DULUTH, Minn. – The Superior National Forest says it is lifting the remaining closures along the upper Gunflint Trail beginning Wednesday. This includes Blankenburg Boat Launch, Trails End Campground, Iron Lake Campground, and all associated facilities including Trails End Boat Launch parking lot and Iron Lake canoe carry down. Additionally, all National Forest System lands and roads along the upper…

Ex-Cops Accused of Violating Floyd’s Rights Plead Not Guilty

(Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office via AP) MINNEAPOLIS (AP) – Four former Minneapolis police officers charged with violating George Floyd’s civil rights have pleaded not guilty to the federal charges against them. A federal grand jury indicted Derek Chauvin, Thomas Lane, J. Kueng, and Tou Thao in May for allegedly depriving Floyd of his rights while acting under government authority. Tuesday’s…

Driver Identified in Dump Truck Fatality

CLINTON TOWNSHIP, Minn. – A Grand Rapids man was killed Monday afternoon after the dump truck he was driving went off the road and rolled in Clinton Township. According to the St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to the crash on Spirit Lake Road near the Virta Road West intersection around 1:28 p.m. Authorities say the driver, identified as…

Duluth Mayor Emily Larson Proposes 2022 Budget with 6% Property Tax Levy Increase

Larson brought her proposed general fund budget of $97.1 million dollars for next year before council.

DULUTH, Minn.- Duluth Mayor Emily Larson brought her proposed general fund budget of $97.1 million for next year before council Monday evening. “I have always believed that budgets are moral documents. Every single Duluthian needs to know that, in some way that is meaningful to them, we are in their corner,” Mayor Larson said. “There is no more important way…

Duluth Amateur Hockey Association Hosts Open Skate, Free Equipment to Kickoff Season

Organizers hope it helps eliminate obstacles for any kids who want to get on the ice and play.

DULUTH, Minn.- Some young hockey players got to skate with the best of them: some UMD Bulldogs, as they helped kick off the Duluth Amateur Hockey Association’s season at the Duluth Heritage Sports Center. New and returning families enjoyed open skating with the members of UMD Men’s and Women’s Bulldogs hockey teams. Over the past week, the hockey association also…

Driver Killed After Dump Truck Rolls On Iron Range

A 38-year-old man was killed Monday afternoon after the dump truck he was driving rolled in Clinton Township on the Iron Range. The single-vehicle accident happened around 1:30 p.m. on Spirit Lake Road near the Virta Road West intersection, according to the St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office. Officials say the dump truck went off the road before it rolled. The…

New Silver Bay Mini Golf Course Opens Up

SILVER BAY, Minn.- If you’re looking for a tee-rific activity to do with your friends and family, a new 18-hole mini-golf course is now open in Silver Bay. Silver Bay couple, Ashley and David Klemmer opened Black Beach Mini Golf last month, hoping to bring a new family-fun space to the community. “The whole family can come and do it,…

It’s Time to Prepare Your Yards for Colder Weather

DULUTH, Minn.- Trees are changing colors in the Northland as we move into the fall season, and managing your plants may be a little different this year with the arid conditions. Local hardware store, Marshall Hardware, says they are keeping busy with customers coming in, preparing their yards for the colder months. Since the Northland experienced an abnormally dry summer,…

Potential Lakewalk Surgery Center Expansion

DULUTH, Minn.- The Lakewalk Surgery Center on London Road is looking to expand with more nearby facilities. The Northland medical center bought a neighboring building in 2020 where Valentini’s Italian restaurant once was. They are now working out a deal to buy London Road Car Wash. The city’s long-term goal is to make London Road a medical institution hotspot, making…

Gordy’s Hi-Hat Closes for 2021 Season

CLOQUET, Minn. – Gordy’s Hi-Hat has closed for the 2021 season. Gordy’s made the official announcement on its Facebook page Monday morning. This was the popular fast-food restaurant’s 61st season. Gordy’s will open again when the weather gets a little warmer in Spring 2022. Categories: Minnesota, News, News – Latest News

City Crews Responding to Two Water Main Breaks in Congdon Park, Lakeside

DULUTH, Minn. – City of Duluth Utility Operations crews are responding to two water main breaks in Duluth’s Congdon Park and Lakeside neighborhoods. The breaks were reported just before 11:30 a.m. Monday. The first break is located on the 3700 block of East 3rd Street. Water is off on 3rd Street between Rockridge Circle and Misquah Road. The second break…

One Injured in ‘Serious Crash’ in Cass County

CASS COUNTY, Minn. – A 54-year-old Loretto man was seriously injured Saturday afternoon after the dirt bike he was driving crashed on the Sno-Way 1 Recreation Trail in rural Pine River. According to the Cass County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to reports of a serious dirt bike crash with injuries around 12:39 p.m. When authorities arrived at the scene they…

Duluth Police Department Honor Lives Lost on 9/11 at Ceremony

DULUTH, Minn.– After the firefighters annual stair climb, fire officials gathered with the Duluth Police Department, along with Mayor Emily Larson and other community leadership at the DECC to hold a ceremony acknowledging those who lost their lives 20 years ago. Police Chief Mike Tusken says its important to pause and reflect on this day, but also to move forward together….

Superior Fire, Police Remember Lives Lost, First Responders’ Ultimate Sacrifice on 9/11

343 New York firefighters were among those who perished. On Saturday in front of Superior Fire's headquarters, 343 flags waved in the wind at the cars passing by.

  SUPERIOR, Wis.- On the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Center, first responders in Superior gathered to honor the lives lost, and ensure future generations never forget the ultimate sacrifice of the law enforcement and firefighters. At the sound of the bugle, the flag at U.W.S. lowers to half-staff. Members of the Superior Fire and…

Local Street Artists Beautify Downtown Duluth Alley with Block-Long Mural

They used about 25 gallons of paint to fill the alley walls with colorful symbols of the Twin Ports like the Lift Bridge.

DULUTH, Minn.- Downtown Duluth just got a little more vibrant, as an alley around popular nightlife spots has been painted with a mural. The Duluth Street Art Initiative teamed up with upward of 80 local artists, to paint the alley behind Dubh-Linn Brew Pub — a city-block long. They used about 25 gallons of paint to fill the alley walls…

‘On Golden Pond’ Opens at Fitger’s Historic Spirit of North Theatre

It's the first show by Boat Club Productions, headed by Boat Club Restaurant owner Jason Vincent.

DULUTH, Minn.- The stage of the historic Spirit of the North Theater in the Fitger’s Complex came alive again this weekend, as the play On Golden Pond opened there. The romantic, family fun show is written by Ernest Thompson. It was adapted into a movie in the ’80s, starring Katherine Hepburn and Jane Fonda. It’s the first show by Boat…

Hundreds in Twin Ports Walk to End Alzheimer’s Saturday

According to the event website, more than 80% of the $165,000 goal has been raised as of Sunday evening.

DULUTH, Minn.- The Walk to End Alzheimer’s returned to the Twin Ports this weekend, raising awareness and money for research of a cure to end the disease affecting more than 6 million Americans. A sea of purple flooded the Lakewalk Saturday. Roughly 400 people who either lost a loved one to Alzheimer’s, are currently battling the disease, or are caregivers…

Greenwood Fire Now 67% Contained

ISABELLA, Minn. — There was good news for the Greenwood Fire on Sunday as officials said the fire was 67 percent contained and was not expected to have any new growth. Cooler air in the 60s, lighter winds and an increase in humidity have all contributed to the positive improvements with the fire, which started by lightning nearly a month…

UPDATE: Duluth Police Ask for Public’s Help in Gas Station Armed Robbery

The individual is described as a Black or Native American male wearing gloves, a camouflage sweatshirt, and a bright orange face covering

DULUTH, Minn.- The Duluth Police Department is asking for the public’s help in identifying the person in this photo, in relation to the armed robbery Saturday night at the Speedway in the Morgan Park neighborhood. According to a spokesperson with the Department, the individual is described as a Black or Native American male wearing gloves, a camouflage sweatshirt, and a…

NERCC Escapee Located, Arrested Near Hermantown Following Nearly 12-Hour Search

On Saturday morning around 6:40, officials said, King was taken into custody without incident after hearing he was walking on the Midway Rd near the St Louis River Rd in Hermantown.

SAGINAW, Minn.- After a nearly 12-hour search, authorities located and arrested an escapee of the Northeast Regional Corrections Center early Saturday morning. According to the St. Louis County Sheriff’s office, NERCC inmate Branden Russell King had fled on foot from the facility into the woods around 7:28 p.m. Friday. King was serving time for prior domestic assault convictions and was…

Friends of Duluth Public Library Host Book Sale

DULUTH, Minn.– The Friends of the Duluth Public Library are holding a modified, outdoor version of their annual book sale this weekend on Michigan street, with rows and rows of great reads. The library has started accepting donations again, which has fed many of the options at this book sale. The purchases made, help fund the library’s reading programs. Staff…

Twin Ports Prepare for 9/11 Rememberance

DULUTH, Minn.– Saturday marks the 20th anniversary commemoration of 9/11, and local law enforcement is coming together to honor the thousands who lost their lives. On the eve of the September 11th attacks, Duluth Police and Fire Departments spoke out on Friday, about what this anniversary means. Saturday morning, the Duluth, Cloquet, and Superior Fire Departments will begin the day…

The DECC to Host Duluth Winter Village

DULUTH, Minn.- The Duluth Entertainment Convention Center announced on Thursday, they will be taking over this year’s Duluth Winter Village. This way, they will be able to showcase the use of their new event space, Harbor Drive. The DECC will be using the street sitting between the convention center and Lake Superior to host various events all year long. Hosting…

Pumpkin Picking is Finally Here

DULUTH, Minn.- Pumpkin picking at Farmer Doug’s pumpkin patch begins today, and the festivities will continue through Sunday. The famous farm has a patch of more than 1,000 pumpkins for people to choose from. Visitors of all ages are welcome to join in on the family-fun activities. “I’m kind of—as we retire and gravitate to things where people are happy…

Northlanders Help Hurricane Ida Survivors

DULUTH, Minn.- Help from the Northland is on the way to Hurricane Ida survivors. Two Northern Minnesota Red Cross volunteers headed out to Louisiana with a Northern Minnesota Emergency Response Vehicle earlier today to help those affected by hurricane Ida. “After I retired, I started volunteering for the red cross and doing deployment,” said volunteer David * “I just enjoy…

New Apartments Proposed on West Arrowhead Road

That land could soon be turned into a 275 unit apartment complex.

DULUTH, Minn. — New market-rate apartments could soon be coming to West Arrowhead Road Duluth. The Duluth City Council will consider the development agreement Monday. There they will vote on permits and zoning requirements for the 19-acre plot. That land could soon be turned into a 275 unit apartment complex. The city of Duluth is excited about the opportunity to add…

Once Upon A Child Hosts Halloween Clothing Event

The event lasts until Sunday but they will still have costumes available afterward.

DULUTH, Minn. — It’s not too early to think about Halloween season. One local clothing store near the Miller Hill Mall is getting in on the Halloween costume hunt early. Each year since it opened back in 2017 Once Upon a Child collects hundreds of gently used Halloween costumes and apparel in baby preemie sizes up to 18/20 youth. In…

‘Light the Night’ Campaign Geared Towards Spreading Ovarian Cancer Awareness

In addition to Enger tower the DECC, Glensheen Mansion, the silos at Pier B  and the Radisson will also be lit teal.

DULUTH, Minn. — September is ovarian cancer awareness month and beginning Friday night through Saturday. Multiple Duluth landmarks will be lit teal to help spread awareness about the disease It’s part of the Minnesota ovarian cancer alliance’s events happening around the region. It will be capped off by the Light Duluth Teal Gala at the DECC Saturday beginning at 6…

Update: Duluth Man Dies After Being Hit by DTA Bus at Miller Hill Mall

  DULUTH, Minn. – A 64-year-old Duluth man has died from his injuries after being struck by a DTA bus Friday morning. According to the Duluth Police Department, authorities responded to reports of a pedestrian who was hit by a bus outside of Dick’s Sporting Good at the Miller Hill Mall around 9:52 a.m. When officers and firefighters arrived at…

Minnesota Defers OK for Permit Linked to ND Power Plant Deal

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) – Regulators told a Minnesota-based utility that they need more information before signing off on a permit transfer necessary for the sale of a financially troubled coal-fired power plant in North Dakota. Minnesota’s Public Utilities Commission voted 4-1 on Thursday to defer a decision on a permit for a power line that would be part of the planned…

Vue at Bluestone Celebrates ‘Grand Opening’

DULUTH, Minn.– The Bluestone property has continued to expand, and become a more vibrant and sought-after area to live over the past years. Today, Bluestone, which opened back in late July, held the official grand opening of its most recent luxury apartments called the ‘Vue at Bluestone’ where both residents and contributors came together to officially celebrate this new property….

Multi-Housing Conference Comes to Duluth

DULUTH, Minn.- Landlords and housing managers are looking to improve living experiences for Northlanders. The Minnesota Multi Housing Association hosted a housing industry conference at the Holiday Inn and Suites in downtown Duluth, where multi housing professionals got a chance to learn, improve, and network within the industry.  The Building Bridges conference included four breakout sessions, offering a total of…