Minnesota

Train For The Le Grand Du Nord!

Active Adventures: Fox 21's Brittney Merlot Trains For The Big Gravel Bike Race

GRAND MARAIS, Minn. — In this weeks Active Adventures we are training in the winter! Both for a race and for our minds. Winters can be long, with cabin fever kicking in. Join us for some tips on where to go to get outside and ease your mind, or train for a race coming up this Memorial Day weekend! The…

Hard “Core” with Duluth Cider New Release

Cooking Connection: Duluth Cider Previews New Cider Available Soon!

LINCOLN PARK, Minn. — In this weeks Cooking Connection we are going hard “core” with Duluth Cider! Check out the new cider that will be released TUESDAY MARCH 5th! It’s called NORTH and it’s made with Sawtooth Mountain maple syrup and pine, delivering a true Northland cider. Grab a few and listen to some tunes, see the live music line…

Special Report: Lets Go Ice Fishing Part III

Trapper's Landing Lodge on Leech Lake Offers Luxury Ice Fishing at its Finest!

WALKER, Minn. — Ice fishing has come a long way from sitting on a bucket, in fact now you can kick back, relax, fish from a recliner, a couch, even a bed and more! Fox 21’s Brittney Merlot takes inside the deep history of Trapper’s Landing Lodge, “Kept the original bar top that was here back in the 40’s! Even…

Minnesota House Panel Ends 5-Hour gun Hearing

A 9-7 Vote Approved a Bill for Universal Background Checks

(AP Photo/Alan Diaz, File)ST. PAUL, Minn. – A Minnesota House committee has wrapped up a five-hour hearing on a pair of contentious gun control bills. The public safety committee voted 9-7 Wednesday night to approve a bill to require universal criminal background checks for gun purchasers. The panel then began considering a bill for a “red flag” law to allow…

City of Duluth Kicks Off New Flag Redesign Project

City taking design submissions until April.

DULUTH, Minn.- The city of Duluth hasn’t changed it’s flag for nearly 50 years. Some people think it needs an update. On Wednesday the city organized a meeting for people to share their thoughts about how to update it. The city says they have heard many requests to change the design. So they invited the public to come share ideas. The…

MnDOT Updates on Mission Creek Burial Ground Restoration

Weather only a small hindrance so far.

DULUTH, Minn.- Minnesota Department of Transportation shared an update on its efforts to restore an unearthed Native American Burial site in the Fond Du Lac neighborhood. MnDOT held another community meeting on Wednesday. Transportation officials say after nearly two years of the accidental unearthing by MnDOT. Crews are continuing their sensitive work which has been slowed a bit with the…

In Spending Proposal Gov. Walz Sets Funds Aside for Northern Lights Project

$11 million suggested for passenger rail systems.

DULUTH, Minn.- The proposed Northern Lights Express Rail System, that would connect Duluth to the Twin Cities, is seeing new life in Governor Tim Walz’s first capital spending proposal. The proposal  calls for $11 million to leverage federal matching funds for passenger rail systems like the Northern Lights Express in Duluth. “The next step in the process is to secure the…

UMD Could Get Big Money in Proposed Bonding Bill

"It needs serious upgrades in terms of air ventilation, life safety, and code compliance issues."

DULUTH, Minn. – Governor Walz recently announced his billion dollar proposal to fund projects statewide, including multi–million dollar plans to renovate and preserve UMD’s infrastructure. The school could get a percentage of $100 million split between all University of Minnesota campuses to preserve a former chemistry building at UMD. Also, about another $4 million dollars proposed in the bill will…

Firefighter Dies in Rice County Snowmobile Crash

Zuilen Died of Asphyxia

FARIBAULT, Minn. – A Northfield firefighter has died in a snowmobile crash in Rice County. Sheriff’s officials say rescuers found Chad Van Zuilen underneath his snowmobile that was partially buried by snow during last weekend’s blizzard. They spotted the ski of his snowmobile in Webster Township. The 37-year-old firefighter was pronounced dead at Northfield Hospital early Sunday. Sheriff Troy Dunn…

Special Report: Lets Go Ice Fishing Part II

Father & Son Head To The Ice To Build A Lasting Bond

WATERSMEET, Mich. — For some families, there is no excuse to stay inside all winter long. In fact for some, it’s time to head out on the ice and do some fishing! Fox 21’s Brittney Merlot takes us on the ice, in the wilderness of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Joining a father and son that are building life long memories and…

Lake Superior Zoo to Host Local Artist on World Wildlife Day

World Wildlife Day is Happening Sunday, February 3, 2019

DULUTH, Minn. – Sunday, March 3 marks World Wildlife Day and the Lake Superior Zoo is inviting you to help them celebrate and raise awareness. Local artist Brad Vanderbrook will be showcasing his giant portraits of endangered species around the Zoo, and will also be creating his newest piece of work. Vanderbrook uses white bedsheets and permanent marker to create…

CHUM Kicks Off Minnesota Food Share March in Duluth

Campaign aims to restock CHUM from Holidays.

DULUTH, Minn.- CHUM kicked off the Minnesota Food Share March Campaign with a goal of raising $115,000 and 35,000 lbs of food. The campaign aims to restock food shelves across the state in March. Many of which, like CHUM, are running low on supplies donated during the holiday season. CHUM says the disadvantaged population has increased in Duluth recently, making…

City Council Approves St. Luke’s Helipad Move

Old parking lot being turned into new helipad.

DULUTH, Minn.- The Duluth City Council has approved the move of Saint Luke’s helipad as the hospital continues to look to expand. Citizens had previously expressed concern about the noise caused by the new location. The resolution also approves the hospitals plans for the reconstruction of its parking deck, including an ambulance garage on East Second Street, where the new helipad would…

Methodist Church Votes to Continue a Ban on Gay Marriage and Gay Clergy

"If it was the United States' decision, we would have full equality in our United Methodist Churches."

  DULUTH, Minn. – Supporters of LGBTQ inclusion within the United Methodist Church are devastated after a final vote, at a 3-day international conference, upholds an ongoing ban of same sex weddings and gay clergy. A local Methodist Church that welcomes the LGBTQ community is now speaking out. More than half of the 800 delegates supported the final vote to…

More Snow Means More Chiropractic Appointments

Local Chiropractic offices see increased fall and shovel injuries.

DULUTH, Minn.- The snow hasn’t let up across the Northland, and with more on the way, it can get treacherous to navigate. Area chiropractors have sen an increase in business due to falls and injuries. They shared with us some tips on how to avoid getting hurt, and having to pay them a visit. The officials at HealthSource of Duluth told…

Special Report: Lets Go Ice Fishing Part I

Importance Of Guides On Lake Superior: Safety, Convenience & Reeling In The Big Catch

WASHBURN, Wisc. — After the polar vortex overtook the Northland, ice on Lake Superior rapidly formed! As of right now, over 80% of the great lake is frozen. With more ice this year, people are excited and heading to the shores. Fox 21’s Brittney Merlot takes us on a trip across the ice on Chequamegon Bay, with Houston’s Guide Service….

Walz Preparing to Roll Out $1.3 Billion Budget

Gov. Tim Walz is preparing to roll out his first capital spending proposal, a $1.27 billion public construction borrowing bill.

ST. PAUL, Minn.-Gov. Tim Walz is preparing to roll out his first capital spending proposal, a $1.27 billion public construction borrowing bill. Walz makes the announcement Tuesday at the Fort Snelling Upper Post veterans housing community. His budget, higher education, transportation, housing and corrections commissioners will be there, plus his Metropolitan Council chair. Walz revealed some broad outlines last week…

Lunch, Dinner Deals Coming to Downtown Duluth

Eat Downtown Duluth Week Runs Monday, March 4 - Saturday, March 9

DULUTH, Minn. – Multi-courses. One price. One Destination. The Duluth Greater Downtown Council is excited to announce another season of Eat Downtown Duluth Restaurant Week. The delicious deals are happening Monday, March 4 through Saturday, March 9 at 19 participating locations. The Greater Downtown Council sponsors the event twice a year with the hope of driving business into local restaurants and…

Duluth Council OKs $88K For External Review Of Police Dept.

DULUTH, Minn.- City councilors have unanimously approved Duluth Police Chief Mike Tusken’s request to purchase an external evaluation of his department at a cost of roughly $88,000. The funds would come from the department’s already-approved operational budget for 2019. The assessment would be performed by a third party, and police say it would help them better allocate their limited resources…

Painting Small for Big Prizes

Frozen Finger Miniature Painting Contest held at Dungeon's End.

DULUTH, Minn.- Many are looking for a relaxing, indoor activity this winter. Dungeon’s End Game store in West Duluth may have just that. They are hosting a Miniature Figure Painting Contest until the end of March. Entry fee is the purchase of the models, which are available in four sizes. “I think people have an artistic side and then you…

Facts First Before Filing Your Taxes

Financial Expert Barry Bigelow with Great Waters Financial Offers Tips as Folks File 2019 Tax Returns

DULUTH, Minn. – Nearly 90 percent of taxpayers are expected to take the standard deduction this year. While that may sound like taxes just got easier, financial experts warn filers should be aware of some major changes to the tax code. Financial Professional Barry Bigelow from Great Waters Financial offers tips to making your filing stress free this year. What…

Aad Shriners to Host 10th Annual Winter Wine Down

The Winter Wine Down is Happening Thursday, February 28, 2019

DULUTH, Minn. – Aad Shriners Oddmen located in Hermantown is proud to present the 10th Annual Winter Wine Down Thursday, Feburary 28, 2019. Guests will enjoy wine and craft beer tasting, delicious hors d’oeuvres from local caterers and restaurants, raffles, a silent auction and much more. New this year will be a live performance featuring artist Lee Zimmerman with a…

Chilly Weather Means Chili Cook-Off at Elim Lutheran Church

Affordable event showcased all kinds of Chili.

DULUTH, Minn.- If you needed a bite to warm up in the high winds today, the Elim Lutheran Church had their Crock-Pots at the ready. They hosted their 3rd Annual Chili Cook-off. Members of the community could compete with their traditional or non–traditional chili, like the winner who made a white bean chili. She said while it definitely looked non–traditional,…

Duluth Company Launches FashionBrain with Oscars

Fashion software hopes to make things easier for content creators.

DULUTH, Minn.- The 91st Academy Awards showcased stars, their movies, and their fashion. But for fashion publishers and content creators, sorting through and finding the right images to write stories can be a challenge. A new software is looking to change that, launched from right here in Duluth–an unlikely team up of the complex world of artificial intelligence and the…

Powerful Winds Don’t Stop People From Getting Out

50 mph winds rip through lake and Northland.

DULUTH, Minn.- Wind didn’t stop people from getting out in Canal Park. Even tourists braved the elements, fighting the gusts to get that perfect shot of the lake. “Madison’s not on a lake like this, so the wind is just nothing that, yeah nothing that we’ve ever seen,” said Weston Erickson, visiting Duluth with his girlfriend. “For me it’s kinda…

Protecting the Birkie with Birkie Security Team

Security prepares for inclement weather.

HAYWARD, Wis.- Behind the scenes, the Birkie Security Team of about 25 volunteers say they’re Sawyer County law enforcement’s eyes and ears for the huge event. They tell us the weather’s cooperated so far, but they’re preparing for much worse as athletes and fans head home. Just be safe driving we have a major weather event heading our way,” said…

American Birkebeiner Skates Into 45th Year

Northland tradition again brings many to Hayward.

HAYWARD, Wis.- “It’s the Birkie, man!” The gun fires, and in one fluid motion the surge of skiers and skaters pushes off in Cable. “The day will go on to be talked about for years.” Main Street is lined with Birkie fans, the whole town of Hayward, and many others, lining the track with the sound of cowbells. “Your whole…

Kalevala Day to Offer Finnish Fun in Duluth

The Finnish Cultural Event is Happening Sunday, February 24, 2019

DULUTH, Minn. – Kalevala Day is celebrated in Finland on the 28th of February, in honor of the day on which the Old kalevala’s forward was dated by Lonnrot (February 28, 1835). Kalevala Day is an official flag-raising day in Finland, and simultaneously the Day of Finnish culture. A local celebration is happening Sunday, February 24 at Kenwood Lutheran Church…

One-On-One: Senator Rarick Talks Broadband, Infrastructure & Recreational Marijuana

FOX 21's Brett Scott Talks With Newly Elected State Senator Jason Rarick (R)

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota’s newest state Senator, Jason Rarick, has now been on the job for a little over one week since being sworn into office Wednesday, February 6. “It was a long month of hard work with some nasty weather but we were all really excited when we saw the final results,” said Rarick. Senator Rarick recently came out…

DOC Offers Look Inside Moose Lake Correctional Facility

More than 1,000 offenders are housed in the state prison

MOOSE LAKE, Minn. – The Minnesota State Correctional Facility in Moose Lake opened its doors, giving a look inside the walls of the medium-security prison. More than a thousand offenders– the majority of whom are convicted for sex offenses– are housed in the Moose Lake Correctional Facility. We were given a rare tour through the building to see first-hand what…

Behind The Counter Rolling Up Sushi

Cooking Connection: Cloud 9 Asian Bistro & Hibachi

DULUTH Minn. — In this week’s Cooking Connection we took our lunch break at Cloud 9 in Canal Park for some amazing specials and tips on how to roll our own sushi roll! LUNCH SPECIAL: Mon-Sat 11am – 3pm HAPPY HOUR: 3-6pm ADDRESS: 308 S Lake Ave, Duluth, MN 55802 CONTACT: (218) 786-9888 HOURS: Thursday 11AM–9:30PM Friday 11:30AM–10:30PM Saturday 11:30AM–10:30PM…

One-On-One: Gov. Walz Talks Legalizing Marijuana, Mining & Infrastructure

FOX 21's Brett Scott Sits Down for a One-On-One Interview with Minnesota Governor Tim Walz

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Nearly two months after being sworn into office, Minnesota’s 41st Governor, Tim Walz, is not holding back when it comes to environmental issues, recreational marijuana and infrastructure. “I’m a congressman from Southern Minnesota, I’m from Mankato, but I saw this as one Minnesota throughout my campaign,” said Governor Tim Walz. Walz is no stranger when it…

Longboarding the Snow Away

Longboard making classes at Duluth Folk School

DULUTH, Minn.- As the snow piles up, some dream of longboarding down a hot, sunny boardwalk surrounded by Palm Trees and beaches. Duluth Folk School gave Northlanders a small taste of that. A three-day class began Wednesday in making your own Longboard, a longer skateboard. Students started with stock pieces of wood, learning how to use a table saw, which…

More Snow Means More Business at Local Grocery Stores

Many shop before snow storm hits.

DULUTH, Minn.- More snow can be a hindrance for some. But for area grocery stores, it means a boost in sales. The Whole Foods Co-op in Denfeld said they can always anticipate an increase in sales of essentials like toilet paper and canned goods. They see the biggest uptake in their produce sales, of which increased 50 percent the past…

Great Outdoors: Dogsledding With a Twist at North Star Academy

School hosts unconventional dog sled race.

DULUTH, Minn.- Northland winters are full of great activities like skiing, snowboarding, and of course dog sledding. You’ve likely heard of the Beargrease, and the Iditarod. But North Star Academy’s dog sled race puts a spin on the traditional. “Teamwork makes the dream work. You have to trust your musher, and the musher has to trust his dogs,” a team…

Duluth Children’s Museum Gets Crazy for Creativity for Winter Break

Creativity Camp first of four throughout the week

DULUTH, Minn.- Entertaining the kids during winter break can be challenging, but the Duluth Children’s Museum has some programs to get your kids out. Today they hosted their Creativity Camp, the first of four camps this week. Children spent the day making puppets, then inventing a story for the puppets to act out in front of the museum later. The children’s…

Shoveling and Slipping Safety Tips from Essentia Health

How to shovel without hurting your back, avoid slipping.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- More snow on the way means more shoveling for Northlanders. But there is potential danger when clearing snow. Emergency rooms see plenty of patients every winter who’ve been hurt while shoveling. While many of us don’t think twice about it, shoveling snow and even just walking on snowy sidewalks can be hazardous if you’re not careful. Using good lifting…

West Duluth Waits for City to Clear Snow Piles, More Snow Comes

Piles reaching 5 feet still obstruct businesses.

DULUTH, Minn.- While the weather was pretty quiet in the Northland on Monday, recent storms still left large mounds of snow in areas around the city. One place where they’re especially high is West Duluth. While the city has promised to get to those piles this week, more snow on the way could change that. Ahead of their big Winter in…

BNSF Investigates 40-Car Train Derailment Near Cloquet

No one was injured, coal spills out onto river and snow.

DULUTH, Minn.- BNSF Railway is investigating to find out what caused dozens of train cars to overturn near Cloquet. The Railway released a statement Sunday night which reads in part: “BNSF crews have been working at the site clearing cars and repairing the track, and preparing a plan to remove the spilled coal and remaining derailed cars. There were no…

Love Your Local Artist

Superior Park Library hosted the 9th Annual Event

SUPERIOR, WI.- The Superior Public Library was filled to capacity today with local artists for the 9th Annual ‘Love Your Artist’ Fundraiser. The artists make pottery, jewelry, paintings, photographs, wood crafts and much more. This fundraiser is always held around the weekend of Valentines Day to give people a reason to get out of the house. Adult Programming Librarian Leslie…

Raspberry Rich Chocolate Heart Brownies

Va Bene Caffe Bakes A Sweet Treat For Valentine's Day

DULUTH, Minn. – In this week’s Cooking Connection Va Bene satisfies our sweet tooth with a rich Valentine’s Day treat, Raspberry Heart Brownies! Check out the video above for a step by step recipe to make them at home, or join them in their cafe! LOCATION: 734 E Superior St, Duluth, MN 55802 HOURS: CONTACT: (218) 722-1518 Categories: Community, Cooking…

Learn to Curl At The World Famous Duluth Curling Club

Active Adventures: Curling & Brews With The Duluth Experience

DULUTH, Minn. — In this weeks Active Adventures, Brittney Merlot and Nikki Davidson try their skills out on the ice, curling! The Duluth Experience takes you on the largest indoor sheet of ice and teaches you step by step the skills needed to curl! Duluth’s curling tradition goes back to 1891 when a group of local Duluthians formed The Duluth…

Captain Johnathan Hillstrand Visits Duluth

Captain Johnathan Hillstrand is Best Known for His Time on Discovery Channel's Hit Show Deadliest Catch

DULUTH, Minn. – Johnathan Hillstrand is captain & co-owner of the Time Bandit, a 113 ft commercial crab fishing vessel as seen on Discovery Channel’s hit TV series Deadliest Catch. Johnathan may wear the raspy exterior of a veteran crabbing captain, but he truly is a child at heart. He runs a generally happy boat – and a very tight…

Barbra Streisand Takes Over Duluth this Weekend

Rubber Chicken Theater Brings Barbra Streisand to the Twin Ports February 15 - 17

DULUTH, Minn. – Just in time for Valentine’s Day, Rubber Chicken Theater is proud to present their upcoming Valentine’s Day Barbra Streisand tribute show, With Love from Barbra. Melody Mendis has been portraying Streisand professionally for the past two years. The show will be happening February 15 and 16 at 7:30 p.m. and February 17 at 2:00 p.m. at the…

Extreme Raptors Taking Over the DECC

The Raptor Project will be Taking Over the DECC During the 2019 Duluth Boat, Sports, Travel & RV Show

DULUTH, Minn. – Back in 1996, Johnathan Wood founded Raptor Project Inc. Wood specializes in training and caring for the biggest traveling collection of birds of prey around the world. They’re fierce, feathered and fantastic, winging your way in an avian extravaganza that captures the spirit of the wild. Extreme Raptors is the premium wildlife production featuring birds of prey…

CBD Craze: Does It Work, and Is It Legal?

A Special Report Takes a Closer Look at CBD in the Northland

DULUTH, Minn- Chances are you’ve heard of it “CBD” is a product that’s hit the shelves in Minnesota and Wisconsin stores. Leaders in the industry are cashing in, calling the trend “a gold rush.” Many of the people who use it say it works to treat their illness, but on the flip side pharmacy leaders have issued warnings calling this…

Duluth Boat, Sports, Travel, RV Show Kicks Off

Some vendors have gone to the birds.

DULUTH, Minn.- You know spring is almost near when the Boats, Sports, Travel and RV Show comes to the DECC. The 53rd Annual Event opened Wednesday night, and will continue through Sunday. There are dozens of vendors, from archery and hunting gear, to everything you need to head out on the lake. FOX 21 News also has a booth, we…

Warm Winter Weather Lets the Dogs Out

Jean Duluth Dog Park Busy with Dogs

DULUTH, Minn.- The warmer weather brought out the four-legged friends in Duluth on Wednesday. Jean Duluth Dog Park was filled with dogs and their owners, enjoying the wide open snowy space. Dogs of all kinds and colors soon started turning white with snow, rubbing themselves on the ground. Owners said they love seeing their dogs happy and playful. “It’s just,…

Boys and Girls Clubs Celebrate Outstanding Youth

Youth of the Year banquet held at Holiday Inn

DULUTH, Minn.- The Boys and Girls Clubs of the Northland celebrated three of its standout teens at a special banquet on Tuesday night. It was all part of the 47th Annual Youth of the Year Celebration. Kwe Perry, Alex Lewis, and Raymond Davenport were selected for their leadership, and service. They were judged on their writing, public speaking and their…

Essentia Health Purchases Younkers for Fitness Center

Downtown Fitness Center moving to Mall

DULUTH, Minn.- Essentia Health is investing $15 million in the purchase and remodeling of the 145,000 square foot Younkers space at Miller Hill Mall, to make it the new location of their Fitness and Therapy Center. The Fitness Center at Younkers would take up about 34,000 square feet, about 12,000 square feet larger than the current downtown location. This makes…