Minnesota

UMD Students Simulate How to Immigrate for Constitution Day

"Immigration Simulation" takes kids through the struggles of our country's immigration process.

DULUTH, Minn.- September 17th is federally recognized as Constitution and Citzenship Day. Tuesday at UMD, some students had an experience that shows what it’s like when you’re trying to get into the United States as an immigrant. “A Mile in their Shoes, an Immigration Simulation” allowed students to mimic going through the immigration process both legally and illegally. Stations included…

OMC Owner Opening New Cocktail Lounge

What initially was an OMC expansion is now a separate business.

DULUTH, Minn.- The owner of Lincoln Park businesses OMC Smokehouse, Duluth Grill, Corktown Deli and Taco Arcada is opening up a new business right next door to OMC. “Noble Pour”, as it will be called, will be a craft cocktail lounge on West Superior Street featuring local craft beverages and beverages made in house. Owner Tom Hanson says the idea…

Duluth Airport Seeks Public Input on Vision 2040 Master Plan

Investments into Airport improvements through 2030 estimated at $70 million.

DULUTH, Minn.- The Duluth International Airport has kicked off the first phase of its Vision 2040 Master Plan, and officials want the public’s feedback on what the plan should address. They held an open house meeting at the airport on Tuesday, inviting members of the public, business leaders, government officials, and aviation workers to hear and share about the plan….

Great Outdoors: A Community Coming Together To Plant Trees

Those in the community rallied together to plant trees in the Lakeside neighborhood Tuesday

DULUTH, Minn.- It’s often said that it takes a village to make a city and that was the case Tuesday as Duluth City workers and volunteers planted trees for a good cause. People of all ages grabbed their shovels and gloves, to replace trees taken down by Emerald Ash Borer. Arbor Day is typically celebrated in April, but weather here…

People Work to ‘Unmask’ Traumatic Brain Injuries in Minnesota

Survivors and family members paint masks depicting their journeys with traumatic brain injuries

DULUTH, Minn. – About 2.5 million people sustain a traumatic brain injury every year in the United States. On Tuesday, people made masks at St. Luke’s Hospital in Duluth, depicting how they’ve been impacted by brain injuries. Over the last four years, 1,400 Minnesotans have made their own, unique masks. They communicate in a way words can’t about how traumatic…

Minnesota Supreme Court Rejects Line 3 Pipeline Challenges

The Court Rejected the Requests in a One-Page Order Tuesday

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) – The Minnesota Supreme Court has declined to take up challenges by tribal and conservation groups to the environmental review of Enbridge Energy’s proposal for replacing its aging Line 3 crude oil pipeline across northern Minnesota. The court rejected the requests in a one-page order Tuesday. The project could have faced a long delay if the…

State Health Officials Investigate State Fair E. coli Outbreak, 11 People Sick

Six of the Ill People Were Hospitalized

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) – Health officials say at least 11 people got sick with E. coli infections after visiting the Minnesota State Fair this summer. The Minnesota Department of Health says six of the ill people were hospitalized, and one developed a potentially fatal complication. One person is still hospitalized. Cases range in age from 2 to 43 years…

Duluth, Cloquet Wendy’s Closes Its Doors

The Miller Hill Mall Wendy's Will Remain Open

DULUTH, Minn. – The Wendy’s fast food restaurants located on London Road in Duluth and in Cloquet have permanently closed their doors. According to the Wendy’s manager at the London Road restaurant, a local Burger King franchisee has purchased both of the locations. Employees at both locations will have the opportunity to work at the new Burger King fast food…

University Developing Faster Test for Fatal Deer Disease

The U of M Hopes to Develop the Test in Two Years

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) – With Minnesota’s archery deer season underway, hunters in the state’s hot zones for chronic wasting disease are figuring out where to drop off the heads of their deer for testing. The science for detecting the fatal brain disease is making progress. But tissue samples must be sent out of state, and results take a few…

Violent Robbery Videos Go Viral Amid Police Shortage in Minneapolis

Police say There Were 23 Robberies Over the Course of One Week in August Alone

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. (CNN) – Cameras caught a violent robbery committed in broad daylight in downtown Minneapolis. Authorities say it’s part of a pattern of increased crime in the city that many say should be a wake-up call. According to the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office one victim was jumped on and run over with a bike in the aftermath of a…

UPDATE: Threat Evacuates Some University of St. Thomas Buildings

Classes are Cancelled Until 1:00 p.m. Tuesday

UPDATE: ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) – The University of St. Thomas has given the all clear after several buildings were evacuated on its St. Paul campus following a bomb threat. The university tweeted the four buildings evacuated have been search and cleared, including the John Roach Center, the Anderson Student Center, the O’Shaughnessy Science Center and the Facilities Design Center….

Spicy or Mild? Head of the Lakes United Way Hosting Annual Chili Cook-Off

The Head of the Lakes United Way Chili Cook-Off is Happening Thursday, September 19 from 5 - 7 p.m.

DULUTH, Minn. – Head of the Lakes United Way is happy to be spilling the beans on the 28th annual Chili Cook-Off happening Thursday, September 19 from 5 – 7 p.m. at the DECC Arena. This year four newcomers will be entered into the competition, vying to win one of eleven trophies up for grabs. Local organizations will be providing…

One Dead, One Arrested After Car Went Into Kettle River

The Driver Was Arrested and Booked

WILLOW RIVER, Minn – A 47-year-old male from the Pine County area died after the car he was a passenger in went into Kettle River near Willow River on Monday. Authorities say they received reports of a vehicle in the Kettle River around 3:48 p.m. The caller told dispatch people were in the water and that they believed someone was…

Service Center Provides One Stop Shop For Veterans

DULUTH, Minn. – “For the Vietnam veterans and those that lived through the draft, they answered the call,” Virginia Veteran Service Officer, Tyler Behnke says. There are just under 18,000 veterans in St. Louis County alone. Some of them may have variety of questions, and the service center has answers. “We’re just kind of like a clearing house or google…

Getting Eclectic about Electric Vehicles at Duluth’s First Show and Tell Event

Event showcased different electric vehicles.

DULUTH, Minn.- Duluth’s first ever Electric Vehicle Show and Tell was held at the electric car charging lot near Endion Station. The event showcased a range of electric vehicles, including Teslas, Chevy Volts, electric motorcycles and more. Experts were on hand to help answer questions about electric vehicles. They say some people still have their doubts about this newer driving…

St. Luke’s Nurses Vote to Strike, Hospital Says Could Cause Reduced Services

Strike set for October 8th.

DULUTH, Minn.- Nurses with St. Luke’s Hospital in Duluth have voted to strike after months of failed negotiations with hospital administration. The strike is set for October 3rd, and in the meantime a contract can still be reached between the two sides, as they are still set to return to the negotiating table this Friday. The nurses have been calling…

Homeless Man Charged in Adas Israel Synagogue Fire

Charges do not include arson, still no evidence of it being a hate crime.

DULUTH, Minn.- A 36–year–old Duluth homeless man, is now charged with starting the fire that destroyed the historic Adas Israel Synagogue in downtown Duluth one week ago. The charges don’t involve arson as Duluth Police recommended. Matthew Amiot had his first court appearance on Monday, charged with one count of negligent fires, and one count of negligent fires resulting in…

State Patrol: Driver Passes Out From Drug Use, Crosses Into Opposite Lane

ITASCA CO., Minn — A 19 year-old man passed out while driving after using drugs on Monday afternoon, according to the Minnesota State Patrol. He was driving north on Highway 38 in the Deer Lake Unorganized Territory. After the man passed out while driving, his car went over the centerline and into a ditch. It then hit a retaining wall…

UMD Students Get Opportunity To Meet With Future Employers

Freshmen to seniors, students filled the Kirby Ballroom to meet local employers

DULUTH, Minn.- It’s been a big day fro UMD students looking to make some professional connections. They got the chance to meet with employers about possible internships and job opportunities. Everyone from freshmen to soon to be graduating seniors were invited to this special job fair. The students filled the Kirby Ballroom meeting with employers from both Minnesota and Wisconsin….

New Way To Eliminate Drug Epidemic

The White House has approved St. Louis County to be part of its High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Program

DULUTH, Minn.- To cut back on the current drug epidemic in northeast Minnesota, the White House has announced that St. Louis County has been approved a part of the existing High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Program. The program provides counties assistance in the coordinating efforts between federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officials. “Investigations are becoming more and more…

St. Luke’s Nurses File Notice to Strike

Nurses Will Try Again to Reach an Agreement on September 20

DULUTH, Minn. – Nurses at St. Luke’s Hospital have filed a 10-day notice that they intend to hold a one-day strike on October 3, according to the Minnesota Nurses Association. The nurses will try again to reach an agreement on a new three-year contract with the hospital on September 20. MNA says if an agreement is not reached by 7:00…

Lift Bridge Dropped to One Lane for Inspection

The Bridge Will Reduce to One Lane 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Through Tuesday

DULUTH, Minn. – The Aerial Lift Bridge will drop down to one lane between the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. today and Tuesday. According to the City of Duluth, the Minnesota Department of Transportation is conducting a critical inspection of the bridge. The Bridge will resume two-way traffic after 5:00 p.m. both days. The city says traffic flow…

Suspect Formally Charged in Duluth Synagogue Fire

Matthew Amiot, 36, Was Arrested Friday for Suspected Arson

DULUTH, Minn. – The homeless suspect arrested last Friday for starting the Adas Israel Synagogue fire has been formally charged. According to court records Matthew James Amiot, 36, has been charged with negligent fires and negligent fires-human being injured/bodily harm. Amiot was arrested for first degree arson on Friday, but right now police say there is no evidence that this…

35th Annual Chester Bowl Fall Fest to Support Scholarship Program

Coffee Conversation: Chester Bowl Fall Fest Happening Saturday, September 21 at Chester Bowl in Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. – This weekend it’s estimated more than 8,000 people will pack into one Duluth Park to help celebrate the changing of seasons and support local businesses. The 35th annual Chester Bowl Fall Festival is scheduled to start Saturday, September 21 at 9:30 and go until 4:30 p.m. Organizers will make an official call around 6:00 a.m. Saturday if…

Minnesota Man Gets 28 Years in Prison for Producing, Distributing Child Porn

Campbell Was Also Given 25 Years of Supervised Release

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) – A Minnesota man has been sentenced to 28 years in federal prison for producing and distributing child pornography. Thirty-seven-year-old Nicholas Campbell, of Otsego, was also given 25 years of supervised released during sentencing last week in federal court in St. Paul. Prosecutors say FBI agents seized a large volume of electronic evidence from Campbell’s home…

Esko Students Evacuated Due to Carbon Monoxide Concerns

Students Were Evacuated to a Nearby Church

  UPDATE Esko, Minn: Staff and students were given the all-clear to return to the building around 11:00 a.m. Monday morning. According to officials the issue stemmed from a malfunctioning water heater. “The exposure limit was very low and minute school started at 8 oclock this morning it was called out around nine and again the levels were in the…

Park Point Community Plays Ball Together

All ages gather to celebrate the end of summer and the beginning of fall.

DULUTH, Minn.- Members of the Park Point community got outside for the last few days of the Summer before Fall moves in. Folks of all ages gathered at the Lafayette Community Center to play a friendly game of softball, broken into Bayside versus Lakeside teams. Organizers say it’s nice to have neighbors out and mingling together. “I think it’s great…

Man Arrested for Adas Israel Synagogue Fire, Not a Hate Crime Yet Police Say

36-year-old Matthew James Amiot of Duluth arrested for arson in the first degree.

DULUTH, Minn.- Duluth Police announced that they have arrested a suspect for starting the Adas Israel Synagogue fire last Monday. 36–year–old Matthew Amiot was arrested for first degree arson on Friday, but right now police say there is no evidence that this was a hate crime. The suspect is being held at St. Louis County Jail. No formal charges have…

Woman Dies After Crashing Car Into Tree

ALBORN, Minn. – A woman died after crashing her car into a tree on Saturday afternoon shortly before 5 p.m., according to the St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office. 61 year-old Rachel Wermter of Culver died after her car skidded off the road and went into the opposite lane, then hit a tree. The sheriff’s office said that speed and alcohol…

Arrest Made in Synagogue Fire, No Evidence of Hate Crime Yet

36-year-old Matthew James Amiot of Duluth arrested for arson.

DULUTH, Minn.- At a press conference Sunday Duluth Police and Fire announced that a suspect has been arrested for starting the Adas Israel Synagogue Fire. 36-year-old Matthew James Amiot of Duluth was arrested for Arson Friday afternoon, Duluth Police Chief Mike Tusken said. Charges are imminent, meanwhile authorities recommended charging Amiot with arson in the first degree. Despite being arrested…

Celebrating Sustainable Farming at UMD Farm Fest

7th Annual Farm Fest features fresh local music, fresh produce, and fresh conversation.

DULUTH, Minn.- Students, local food vendors, and community members turned out for UMD Land Lab’s 7th Annual Farm Fest Saturday. Families were invited to come hear live local music and shop freshly picked produce. They also joined the conversation about local farming and sustainability in Northland agriculture. “Just getting people to have a connection with their food system, I think…

Fun with Farm Life at Mr. Ed’s Farm

Farm invites people for free for Old Farm Day.

HIBBING, Minn.- A real life Old McDonald showed his farm off to the public Saturday, and with a moo moo here and a cluck cluck there, Old Farm Day provided great entertainment for all ages. “A farm is a place that brings together plants, animals, soil, water sun and creates life,” said farm owner Ed Nelson. Just hop on a…

Once Upon A Child Holds Halloween Costume Sale

DULUTH, Minn. – Once Upon A Child in burning tree plaza has started stocking their shelves with Halloween costumes. This helps parents get a head start with finding the perfect costume at a bargain price. “That’s gonna be 50-70% off what you’re gonna buy brand new. And your kids wear the Halloween costume once. And it’s a really fun night,…

Graduates of Carpentry Program Ready for Next Step

HERMANTOWN, Minn. – A graduation ceremony was held in Hermantown at the Jerry Alander Training Center Friday afternoon. Participants spent six weeks in a carpentry program sponsored by multiple organizations including the local carpenters union. That work group says they are in need of workers as the construction industry continues to boom in the northland. The graduates- with the majority…

Fast Growing Company Recognized In Duluth

A Duluth Credit company was recognized as one of the fastest growing in America on Friday

DULUTH, Minn.- Friday, a Duluth Credit Company was recognized as one of the fastest growing companies in America. The Inc. 5000 showcases fast-growing private companies in the U.S. and explains how they reached their lofty heights. The owner of Duluth’s Credit Services International who is a Denfeld and Saint Scholastica alum says it’s a dream come true that his company…

Showing Off On Inline Skates

All ages showed off their tricks and talents on wheels today ahead of the Inline Marathon Saturday

DULUTH, Minn.- This weekend, the 24th Annual Inline Marathon will bring than 2,000 athletes to Duluth, and Friday skaters got to show off their skills in a unique way. Those of all ages laced up their skates for a different reason today. To hit the ramps and soar through the sky and show off their their moves on wheels. Ooo’s…

Preps Begin For Inline Marathon

Those in the marathon tomorrow picked up their race packets Friday

DULUTH, Minn.- Those in the marathon Saturday picked up their race packets, filled with all the information they need to know about the marathon. The race director tells us the attendance is up, due in part to the course the racers compete on. “Our course is just pristine. It’s so beautiful. It’s pretty rare to get a point to point…

St. Luke’s Nurses Vote to Authorize Strike

Union can still negotiate a deal for 10 days before strike is implemented.

DULUTH, Minn.- After weeks of negotiations, nurses at St. Luke’s Hospital authorized a strike for what they call unfair labor practices. The Minnesota Nurses Association (MNA) says staffing and scheduling is inefficient at the hospital. They say while they don’t want to strike, they see no other way of having their needs met. “Like we’ve been clear from the very…

Vigil Held for Missing Northland Woman Sheila St. Clair

Indigenous woman missing since 2015 still being looked for by Police, family.

DULUTH, Minn.- It’s been four years since 48-year-old Sheila St. Clair of Duluth went missing, and Duluth Police say the case is still open. Today the members of the indigenous community and the Duluth Police Department met for a press conference at One Roof Community Housing to hear any possible tips into the woman’s whereabouts. They also met to keep…

Ordean Building Sold for $1.2 Million, No Change for Tenants

Foundation Sells Building to Keep Focusing on Addressing Poverty

DULUTH, Minn.- The Ordean Building on Superior Street in Downtown Duluth is changing owners. The Ordean Foundation has sold the building to local professional real estate company Titanium Partners LLC. Officials with the Ordean Foundation say they sold the West Superior Street building because managing it was keeping them from their mission of addressing poverty issues in the area. The…

Organizers, Athletes Prepare for 2019 North Shore Inline Marathon

Active Adventures: North Shore Inline Marathon

DULUTH, Minn. – It takes a village and year round dedication to make the North Shore Inline Marathon a success every year. Race Director Mike Ward stopped by FOX 21 Local News Friday morning ahead of the jam packed lineup of events. Ward says many folks are concerned about detouring around the Lester Bridge construction this year. Traffic will be…

2019 Gitche Gumee Wedding Show Happening Sunday

The Show is Happening Sunday, September 15 from 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. at the DECC

DULUTH, Minn. – Are you a bride or groom-to-be? If so, the perfect is event is happening in Duluth Sunday, September 15. The Gitche Gumee Wedding Show is taking place from 11:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. at the DECC’s Lakeside Ballroom in Duluth. Wedding planning professionals, the stunning Lake Superior Lounge, Inspiration Stations and Fashion Experiences will highlight this year’s…

Interested in Finnish Culture? You Won’t Want to Miss this Musical Performance

The Kardemimmit Kantele Concert is Happening Friday, September 12

DULUTH, Minn. – Happening Friday, September 13 at 7:00 p.m., the United Protestant Church in Duluth in partnership with the Finlandia Foundation Northland Chapter, are set to host a Finnish concert featuring Finnish group Kardemimmit. The church is located at 830 88th Avenue West in Morgan Park. Admission is $10 for adults, and there’s no charge for children to attend….

Preparations Underway for Inline Skating Marathon

TWO HARBORS, MN – The 24th Annual Inline Skating Marathon will get underway this Satuday. To kick things off, there will be an expo on Friday at the DECC, along with “Skatefest” followed by the race. Upwards of two-thousand people will be participating, bringing more business to the area. “It’s great. Any time you can have a great event like…

Catalyst Content Festival to Bring Hundreds of TV Executives, Creators to Duluth

Festival organizers say the event could be the beginning of a year-round film and TV industry in Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. – In October, the Catalyst Content Festival will bring a hundred TV executives and hundreds more producers from Hollywood to Downtown Duluth. At the festival, people will watch never-before-seen shows made all around the world. The Catalyst Content Festival, formerly called the Independent TV Festival, chose Duluth as its home over every other city in America because it…

Essentia Health Treated Two Patients With Lung Issues Likely Caused By Vaping

St. Luke's Hospital says it hasn't seen any vaping-related lung issues with patients

(AP Photo/Steven Senne, File)DULUTH, Minn. — Two people in the Northland have been treated for lung issues earlier this summer that may have been caused by vaping, according to Essentia Health, which treated the patients. Essentia Health was not able to share the ages or current conditions of the two patients with respect to HIPPA laws. St. Luke’s Hospital has…

Grandma’s 44th Annual Oktoberfest Gets Underway

DULUTH, MN – Grandma’s 44th annual Oktoberfest kicked off this afternoon with a ceremonial keg tapping and live music. Grandma’s is also working with the Duluth Oktober Festival at Bayfront Park this weekend to give everyone a unique German experience. “It begins a longtime tradition with our company where we bring in authentic German fair, food, features and beer,” Grandma’s…

Two Harbors Wastewater Treatment Plant Seeking Upgrades

TWO HARBORS, MN – The wastewater treatment plant in Two Harbors is looking to get $20 million in upgrades. On Thursday morning, Two Harbors city leaders met with the senate and capitol investment committee to bring forward and appropriation bill which would cover half of the project. The plant was originally built in the 1950’s and has had upgrades throughout…

Event on the Iron Range to Raise Awareness for Suicide Prevention

The Iron Range Walk to Remember is Happening Saturday, September 14 at the Miners Memorial Building in Virginia

VIRGINIA, Minn. – On Saturday, September 14, you’re invited to come together and help raise awareness for suicide prevention on the Iron Range. Event organizer Dano Zebro stopped by FOX 21 Local News Thursday morning to share details about the event, and how the public can get involved. Registration for the 4th annual Iron Range Walk to Remember will begin…

New Government Service Center Opens in Virginia

VIRGINIA, MN – Employees at the Northland Office Building in Virginia, Minnesota were in need of a big change. “The old building was basically a recreation hall converted to an office building, converted to a government office building,” Property Management Division Director, Tony Mancuso says. The 7,000 people a month seeking their services often had a difficult time finding their…