Minnesota

Latest Minnesota COVID-19 Numbers: April 27

ST. PAUL, Minn. – The Minnesota Department of Health reported 3,816 confirmed cases of COVID-19 throughout the state as of Monday morning. The department also reported 286 deaths. Health officials have cautioned that the real number of Minnesotans infected with COVID-19 is likely much higher due to a previous lack of testing throughout the state. The number of reported cases…

City Asks Public to Report Illegal Trail Use

DULUTH, Minn. – The City of Duluth Parks and Recreation department says they have responded to reports of illegal trails development and riding within Central Park. According to a Monday news release, city ordinances will continue to be enforced in parks throughout the city and the public is encouraged to call the Duluth Police Department to report illegal building or…

Hometown Heroes: 4/26/20

DULUTH, Minn. — FOX 21 is highlighting local front-line workers who are giving their all for the community during the coronavirus pandemic. Here are just a few of our Hometown Heroes from Sunday’s broadcast. If you’d like to nominate someone, just head over to FOX 21’s Facebook page to upload an image and a brief description about the person. We…

St. Louis River Quest Canceled for the First Time in Program History

Organizers hope to bring those that missed out this year aboard next year.

DULUTH, Minn.- The 28th Annual St. Louis River Quest, the three-day waterfront and water safety education program for sixth graders, has been canceled for the first time due to the Coronavirus pandemic. Originally scheduled for the beginning of May, River Quest has never been canceled since its start in 1993. 1,500 sixth graders from 13 area schools come to the…

Business Blooming for Duluth Flower Farm’s Mini Farmer’s Market

The florist is seeing success with his socially distant farmer's market on his parents' Proctor farm.

PROCTOR, Minn.- A local flower shop owner is seeing some success after adapting his business model during this pandemic. Duluth Flower Farm has been set up with a simple table outside the family’s farm in Proctor–and it’s been busy–selling out of flowers and products like homemade salsa. The owner said this new approach has done wonders while his store is…

90-Year-Old Proctor Man Surprised with Community Birthday Parade

The whole community helped David Frear celebrate the first birthday without his wife of 62 years.

PROCTOR, Minn.- The Coronavirus pandemic has proven that there are more ways than just parties to celebrate important birthdays, like David Frear’s milestone 90th Birthday Parade. “It’s really, really exciting. I really like it,” Frear said as cars honked by. After having to cancel a surprise party, Frear’s family still wanted to make his 90th one to remember. “When I…

Stolen Vehicle Pursuit Ends With Driver Ejected

A 33-year-old man from Ely was ejected from a vehicle Sunday that St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office says was stolen. The man, whose name was not immediately released, was air lifted to a Duluth area hospital for non-life threatening injuries. The crash happened south of Mt. Iron during a high-speed pursuit after deputies tried to arrest the driver around noon…

MN COVID-19 Cases, Deaths Rise As Restrictions Set To Be Eased

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) – Minnesota health officials on Sunday confirmed 156 new cases of the coronavirus, raising the total number to more than 3,600. The updated report includes 28 deaths from COVID-19, for a statewide total of 272. All but five of the victims were in long-term care facilities. A total of 829 people have required hospitalization. Of those, 285 remain…

Volunteers Keep Duluth Clean for First Virtual Cleanup Day

City launches first ever virtual cleanup after spring lakewalk cleaning gets canceled.

DULUTH, Minn.- In honor of Earth Day and the canceled spring lakewalk cleanup, the City of Duluth launched their first “Keep Duluth Clean Virtual Cleanup” Saturday. People are encouraged to grab an old bucket or bag, put on their gloves, and start picking up trash. They can share their progress with the hashtag #keepduluthclean. Volunteers cleaning up said they’re surprised…

Healthcare Heroes Celebrated with Handpainted Sign Outside St. Luke’s

Duluth Street Art Initiative Made a 4-ft by 8-ft sign in front of the St Luke's Clinic on East First Street.

DULUTH, Minn.- Healthcare workers looking out the windows of the buildings on the St. Luke’s Campus will now be treated to a big sign reading “Thank You Frontline Heroes,” put together by local artists and local officials. “When they’re laying down that kind of sacrifice, I think it’s important for them to know we’re here, and we care,” said Minnesota…

WI Reports Its Largest Single-Day Rise In Covid-19 Cases

Statewide deaths are now up to 266.

Health officials in Wisconsin are reporting the largest single-day rise in Coronavirus cases since the outbreak started. In the last 24 hours, 361 tests came back positive. Also, an additional four people have died. The update raises the total number of cases to 5,687. Statewide deaths are also now up to 266. Health officials believe the actual number of infections…

Employee at USG’s Cloquet Plant Tests Positive for COVID-19

CLOQUET, Minn. – An employee at the USG plant in Cloquet has tested positive for COVID-19. A USG spokesperson confirmed to FOX 21 that the company learned of the positive test on Friday, April 24th. The company has temporarily suspended the department where the employee was working to allow for thorough cleaning in accordance with the World Health Organization (WHO)…

Lake Superior Art Glass Offers Live Glass Blowing Demos Online During Shutdown

DULUTH, Minn. – A Duluth glass studio is finding creative ways to keep the community engaged in their artistic process during the shutdown. Every Monday through Friday at 10:00 a.m., Lake Superior Art Glass does a live glass-blowing demo on Facebook. Owner Dan Neff tells us the demo gives customers a behind-the-scenes look at how the shop’s art is created….

WLSSD to Re-Open Some Facilities

DULUTH, Minn. –  The WLSSD yard compost site, hazardous waste facility and material recovery centers were all closed off during the governors stay at home order. Now, the waste compost site will open on the 30th, while the two other facilities will open next week with different regulations. “We will have limitations at our facilities only allowing a certain number…

Essentia Health Expands COVID-19 Testing

DULUTH, Minn. – Essentia Health is expanding its COVID-19 testing criteria to now include all patients who have symptoms. The hospital announced on Friday that the change is effective immediately at all of its sites in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and North Dakota. Essentia says anyone experiencing symptoms should first start an E-Visit at EssentiaHealth.org. During the visit, a provider can evaluate…

Minnesota Gov. Walz Unveils New COVID-19 Testing Website

(courtesy: Fox 9) ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz announced a new website on Friday which is aimed at helping Minnesotans find a testing location in their community. “Access to COVID-19 testing is critical to moving Minnesota forward during this pandemic,” Governor Walz said. “This tool will help make our widespread testing initiative accessible to all Minnesotans, and…

Another 21 in Minnesota Die from Coronavirus Complications

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Minnesota health officials said Friday another 21 people have died of coronavirus complications, matching the highest one-day death toll announced Thursday. The Department of Health also said there are 243 additional confirmed cases of COVID-19, raising Minnesota’s total to 3,185. State data shows the largest percentage of cases involved people age 20 to 44. The department’s Public…

Early Morning House Fire in Cook Causes ‘Extensive Damage’

(courtesy: Northland FireWire) COOK, Minn. – According to the Northland FireWire, multiple fire crews battled a house fire Friday morning in Angora. The fire was reported around 6:30 a.m. Friday in the 8900 block of Highway 1. The FireWire reported that the home ‘appeared to have extensive damage.’ No injuries were reported. Fire crews from Cook, Pike-Sandy-Britt, Vermillion Lake, Lake…

HealthPartners Furloughs 2,600 Employees

BLOOMINGTON, Minn. (AP) — Another prominent health care provider is furloughing 2,600 employees as the coronavirus cuts into revenue. HealthPartners, the second-largest nonprofit group in the state, operates seven hospitals, dozens of clinics, and a health insurance business. COVID-19 has eliminated elective surgeries and created some financial challenges for health care groups. Earlier this month Minnesota’s largest nonprofit group, the Mayo…

Duluth Police Chief Talks COVID-19, Community Engagement, Budget

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth Police Department is continuing to work under unprecedented times during the pandemic. Chief Mike Tusken says his patrol officers are working 12-hour shifts for five days on and 15 days off to allow an officer to potentially develop symptoms of COVID-19 before returning to work. “We do believe that the greatest threat we have in…

Summer Events at Bayfront in Limbo due to Pandemic

Officials, event organizers and acts are all looking at other ways to hopefully bring their art to fans.

DULUTH, Minn.- The COVID-19 pandemic has left musical acts and festivals at Bayfront Festival Park in unprecedented uncertainty–forcing organizers and artists to explore different ways to give fans an experience if shows are a no-go. Bayfront has become synonymous with summer fun, filling up every season with concert-goers, food lovers, and fireworks. But the empty, bleak park you see right…

Golfers Speak Out Against City’s Closure of Lester Park Golf Course for 2020 Season

Mayor Emily Larson announced the course will be closed for entire 2020 season

DULUTH, Minn. – Golfers are speaking out against Duluth Mayor Emily Larson’s decision to close Lester Park Golf Course for the entire 2020 season. “We wait sometimes until almost May, early May to start playing and we’re patient. And now we have nothing to look forward to,” said frequent golfer Phil Fitzpatrick. Golfers met outside the Lester Park clubhouse, showing…

Duluth Superintendent Reacts to Schools Closing for Academic Year

DULUTH, Minn. – Duluth Public Schools will continue providing meals and childcare to certain families, and distance learning to all students for the rest of the school year. Superintendent Bill Gronseth tells us the district is planning to hold awards nights and graduations this spring despite schools being shut down. “We’re working with our schools and our students and our…

Minnesota Student Will Be Continuing Distance Learning For The Rest Of The Year

It's already been more than a month since Minnesota students were last in school classrooms.

DULUTH, Minn. – All Minnesota k-12 schools are remaining closed for the rest of the academic school year. Governor Tim Walz made the announcement earlier today as a further precaution to flatten the curve of the coronavirus pandemic. It’s already been more than a month since Minnesota students were last in school classrooms. Most academic school years in the state…

Duluth Library Foundation Raising Money During Second Annual “Giving Day”

DULUTH, Minn. – After the city of Duluth laid off 25 library technicians on Wednesday, the Duluth Public Library has announced its second annual “Giving Day.” Although the library is temporarily closed, the Duluth Library Foundation is asking for donations. The staff said that they want to make sure the public still has the resources they need during the Covid-19…

VP Mike Pence to Visit Mayo Clinic in Rochester Next Week

ROCHESTER, Minn. (FOX 9) – Vice President Mike Pence will visit Mayo Clinic’s facilities in Rochester next week, marking his second trip to Minnesota in the midst of the coronavirus outbreak. Pence’s trip is scheduled for Tuesday. He’ll tour Mayo Clinic’s research and treatment facilities and talk with workers, according to a White House statement sent Wednesday evening. Pence’s most recent trip…

Duluth City Councilor Barbara Russ Stepping Down

DULUTH, Minn. – Duluth City Councilor Barbara Russ announced on Thursday that she is resigning from the Duluth City Council due to health issues. Russ wrote in a statement: “For the past 5 ½ years I have been privileged to serve as an At-Large Duluth City Councilor. During my tenure, I have fought hard to help the homeless and underprivileged…

Walz Orders Minnesota Schools Closed for Rest of School Year, Outlines Next Steps

(Glen Stubbe/Star Tribune via AP, Pool) MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Gov. Tim Walz on Thursday ordered Minnesota schools to stay closed through the rest of the academic year amid the COVID-19 crisis. Walz, who is a former teacher, calls it “a heartbreaking decision.” The Democratic governor says he feels sorry for all the students who will miss out on graduations, tournaments,…

LIVE: Gov. Tim Walz Press Conference

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Gov. Tim Walz on Thursday ordered Minnesota schools to stay closed through the rest of the academic year amid the COVID-19 crisis. Walz, who is a former teacher, calls it “a heartbreaking decision.” The Democratic governor says he feels sorry for all the students who will miss out on graduations, tournaments and end of year celebrations. But…

CHUM 16th Annual Rhubarb Festival Canceled

DULUTH, Minn. – CHUM’s 16th Annual Rhubarb Festival has been canceled. CHUM says the decision to cancel the June 27 event is to ensure the safety of volunteers and attendees amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The festival raises about $60,000-$70,000 for CHUM each year. CHUM says next year’s festival will take place on June 26, 2021. Categories: Minnesota, News, News –…

Minnesota State Fair Will Either Run Full 12 Days or be Canceled Says GM

FALCON HEIGHTS, Minn. (FOX 9) – The general manager of the Minnesota State Fair says the Great Minnesota Get-Together is still on track to start on Aug. 27, despite the COVID-19 pandemic. In a statement, general manager Jerry Hammer said this year’s State Fair will be all or nothing—alternate fair dates, a change in the duration of the fair or significant reductions…

Latest Minnesota COVID-19 Numbers

ST. PAUL, Minn. – The Minnesota Department of Health reported 21 new deaths on Thursday morning marking the most deaths reported in a single day to date. The department also reported 2,942 confirmed cases throughout the state. Health officials have cautioned that the real number of Minnesotans infected with the coronavirus is likely much higher because most people don’t qualify…

National Bank of Commerce Donates 8,000 N95 Masks to Duluth Hospitals

St. Luke's and Essentia Each Received 4,000 N95 Masks Thanks to National Bank of Commerce

DULUTH, Minn. – With a nationwide shortage of N95 masks, and states told they must find supplies themselves, it’s becoming more difficult by the day to obtain a stockpile for Northland hospitals. On Wednesday, National Bank of Commerce gifted St. Luke’s Hospital in Duluth a supply of 4,000 N95 masks for healthcare workers on the front lines to utilize. Another…

Walz Expected to Keep Minnesota Schools Closed

(Scott Takushi/Pioneer Press via AP, Pool) MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Gov. Tim Walz is expected to announce that he’s ordering Minnesota schools to stay closed through the rest of the year amid the COVID-19 crisis. The Democratic governor closed public and charter schools just over a month ago and directed them to switch to distance learning, a move that affected nearly…

Nearly 50 Full-Time City of Duluth Employees Laid Off

This latest round of layoffs comes after 45 temporary/seasonal employees were also laid off.

DULUTH, Minn. — The city of Duluth is laying off nearly 50 more employees on top of dozens of temporary and seasonal positions because of a massive projected budget shortfall. A spokesperson for Mayor Emily Larson said Wednesday that 49 full-time employees are affected in this latest round of layoffs. The positions range from housing inspectors within the fire department…

Duluth School District Seeking Cloth Face Coverings

DULUTH, Minn. –   The Duluth School District has received more than 300 donated masks so far, 100 more are needed. The masks will be used for people working in emergency childcare and for district employees making lunches for students. Those workers will also continue using social distancing practices. “They’re now doing things to provide childcare to prepare meals to curriculum…

Pike Lake Elementary School Teachers Create A “We Miss You” Video For Students

"It really does touch them and help them to see our faces, It helps them to see that we really do care."

DULUTH, Minn – Nothing says I miss you like a video filled with heartfelt messages, right? Well, teachers and staff at Pike Lake Elementary did just that to share with their students while being apart during the pandemic. The video is a combination of pictures of the teachers and staff with messages expressing how much they miss their students. The…

Duluth Offers Emergency Grant Funding To Support Small Businesses During The Pandemic

Each business could receive 10,000 to support operations during the pandemic.

DULUTH, Minn. – Small businesses in Duluth affected by the Coronavirus pandemic have one more day to apply for a special grant program. The Duluth 1200 Fund is handing out thousands of dollars in fast grants to provide immediate financial assistance to businesses being negatively impacted. The goal is to help preserve more than 1,000 jobs in the City of…

Gov. Walz, Mayo, U of M Announce COVID-19 Testing Breakthrough in Minnesota

(Scott Takushi/Pioneer Press via AP, Pool) ST. PAUL, Minn. – Governor Tim Walz along with the Mayo Clinic and the University of Minnesota announced on Wednesday a breakthrough for widespread testing of COVID-19 in the state. The statewide testing strategy will allow the testing of anyone with symptoms, isolate confirmed cases, and expand public health surveillance tools. The governor’s office…

COVID-19 Kills 19 More Minnesotans in Biggest 1-day Jump Yet

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — COVID-19 has killed 19 more Minnesotans, marking the largest one-day death toll since the pandemic reached the state, the Minnesota Department of Health reported Wednesday. The 19 new deaths raised the state’s total to 179. The department also reported 154 new confirmed cases, a big one-day jump that raised the state’s total to 2,721. Health officials have…

COVID-19 Pandemic Could Have Big Impacts on the 2020 Presidential Election

Talk of a 'Mail-In' Election Have Been Brought Up By Many Lawmakers Including Minnesota Senator Amy Klobuchar

DULUTH, Minn. – Amid growing concern, many questions are surrounding how the COVID-19 pandemic could impact the 2020 Presidential election. Presumptive Democratic nominee Joe Biden and President Trump are having to use different platforms on the campaign trail. Much of the media attention is focused on how Mr. Trump is handling the pandemic, which in turn leaves voters to analyze how…

Duluth City Council President, Tourist Attractions Prepare for Tough Times After Budget Shortfall

So far businesses are allowed to open early May, but there's weeks of preparation involved.

DULUTH, Minn.- After Mayor Emily Larson’s announcement of the City’s tremendous 2020 budget shortfall due to COVID-19, tourist attractions navigate uncertain times through the most important dollar-making months Duluth sees all year. While Governor Walz’s stay-at-home order right now says businesses can start opening up the first week of May, owners of attractions told us they can’t just throw open…

Superior Street Reconstruction Project Update

DULUTH, Minn. – It’s been more than two weeks since phase three of the Superior Street Reconstruction Project began in downtown Duluth. So far, city officials tell us the project is right on schedule. Phase three is taking place between Lake Avenue and Third Avenue West. The project is being worked on in two different stages. Right now, construction teams…

Great Outdoors: Marinas Set to Re-Open

KNIFE RIVER, Minn. – As of Friday the 17th, Governor Tim Walz expanded Minnesota’s essential services allowing some outdoor recreational activities to fall under that category. “The first thing we did was get careful and serious about social distancing in the workplace and then we were preparing to shut down,” Barkers Island General Manager, Eric Thomas says. In Wisconsin, marinas…