Minnesota

Post-holiday exercise options

9Round Fitness 30 minute Kickboxing might help knock you back into shape

DULUTH, Minn. – After the holidays is when most people start feeling like it’s time to hit the gym.A new kind of gym has opened up in Duluth recently. 9Round Fitness is a 30 minute kickboxing studio, where folks can work with a trainer, and have a slightly different workout experience than your typical gym. “The whole thing with kickboxing…

UPDATE: Officers Identified in Gilbert Shooting

GILBERT, Minn. – The Minnesota Department of Public Safety Bureau of Criminal Apprehension has identified the officers involved in a shooting that took place in Gilbert on Dec. 22.  According to the Minnesota DPS BCA preliminary investigation, Deputy Derrick Deutsch with the St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office and Officer Joseph Bradach of the Gilbert Police Department were looking for an…

Sen. Franken Thanks Supporters in Minneapolis

  MINNEAPOLIS (KMSP) – Senator Al Franken delivered a message of thanks to his supporters and friends after eight years in the Senate on Thursday night. It was his first public appearance in Minnesota since sexual misconduct allegations were made against him. He announced his plans to resign earlier this month. His fall came after Los Angeles radio personality Leann Tweeden released a photo of Franken apparently…

Duluth rink rats brave the cold for the love of hockey

Well below-zero temps won't stop these little athletes

DULUTH, Minn. – Well, it may be cold outside but that’s not stopping hearty Northlanders from keeping busy out there. Being that it’s Minnesota, kids don’t seem to mind that it’s a few degrees below zero. FOX21 caught up with some young rink rats playing a game of pick-up hockey at the Glen Avon hockey rinks. “It’s cold, but, I…

Depression Happens In the Northland Around This Time Of the Year

The economic burden of depression, including workplace costs, direct costs and suicide- related costs, was estimated to be $210.5 billion in 2010, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

DULUTH, Minn. – There can be dark days living in Duluth and being so far away from the equator means not enough sunlight, which can affect how you feel. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is where people typically get more depressed during certain seasons. “There is a variation of that where some people have a different kind of depression in the…

Franken to Formally Thank Supporters Before Leaving Senate

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) – Sen. Al Franken is meeting with supporters and friends in Minnesota before he officially resigns. The Democrat planned to attend an event Thursday night in Minneapolis to thank supporters and friends after his eight years in the Senate. Media outlets were expected to be allowed to attend part of the event. Franken announced his plans to resign…

Lynx Give Coach Cheryl Reeve Contract Extension

(Courtesy of MN Lynx)MINNEAPOLIS (KMSP) – Following another championship season and several high-profile accolades, the Minnesota Lynx signed Head Coach Cheryl Reeve to a multi-year contract extension Thursday, also giving her the role of general manager in addition to her coaching duties. Reeve won her fourth WNBA title with the Lynx in 2017, notching her 195th total win as the coach of the franchise…

Minnesota IT Chief to Step Down in February

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) – The state’s top information technology official will retire in February. Minnesota Information Technology Services Commissioner Tom Baden announced his plan to step down on Thursday, citing health reasons. But it also comes amid problems with the state’s overhaul of its computer system for license plates and tabs. He will officially depart Feb. 2. Baden was…

Twins’ Miguel Sano Facing Sexual Assault Allegations

(AP) MINNEAPOLIS (KMSP) – A professional photographer has come forward with an allegation that Minnesota Twins third baseman Miguel Sano assaulted her after an autograph signing. Betsy Bissen also alleges that sexual harassment she endured while covering the Twins “started off with the first base coach hitting on me almost every game I was at.” In a letter posted on Twitter,…

Judge Pushes Back Timeline for Enbridge Line 3

(Garret Ellison | MLive)MINNEAPOLIS (AP) – An administrative law judge delayed approval of a divisive oil pipeline in northern Minnesota so the environmental impact statement can be revised. The decision from Judge Ann O’Reilly last week is a response to a Public Utilities Commission’s finding that the project’s impact statement was “inadequate.” The PUC on Dec. 7 gave the Department…

Jay Cooke State Park Has Activities to Keep You Busy This Holiday Season

DULUTH, Minn. – Jay Cooke State Park will be offering several free naturalist programs during the upcoming holiday time period.  All programs are free, but a Minnesota State Park vehicle permit is needed to enter the park.  They can be purchased upon arrival.  $7/day or $35/annual.  Attached is our program flier for the winter, but here are the highlights for…

Sea Smoke Appears Over Lake Superior

TWO HARBORS, Minn. – Mother Nature is putting on a show in Minnesota. Sea smoke was seen rising over Lake Superior on Christmas Day. Sea smoke, also called steam fog or frost smoke, appears when really cold air slides over a warmer expanse of water. Lake Superior’s temperature was about 35 degrees and the air temperature was 9 below zero…

Northland Man Share His Story Of His Very Own Christmas Miracle

Michael Sylvester was adopted and plans to have genetic testing to see if he carries the gene.

DULUTH, Minn. – After nearly 14 years on the job with the U.S. Postal Service Michael Sylvester is what some may call a walking Christmas miracle. It’s a far cry from where he was back on Dec. 16, 2016. “I noticed I was having some chest pain,” said Sylvester. “I thought it was indigestion.” Michael then did something that isn’t…

Northland Food Bank Needs More Volunteers

Volunteers started with brand flakes and scooped two and half pounds into every bag.

DULUTH, Minn. – The Second Harvest Northern Lakes Food Bank in Duluth was busy with volunteers at a repacking event. The people volunteering equal to six full time positions at the Food Bank. They are important in making sure the Food Bank runs smoothly. “So we’re just asking folks to come in and volunteer and help us get this food…

Bentleyville Starts the Teardown Process

Volunteers can show up between 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. from Tuesday through Sunday this week, at Bayfront Park to assist with teardown.

DULUTH, Minn. – After several weeks of entertainment it’s now time for the Bentleyville Tour of Lights to come to an end. Organizers say it’s time to dig in and get to work with the teardown process. Many volunteers have been helping out since Sept. so now they can get back to their normal lives. When it comes to setting…

UPDATE: Victims Identified in Fatal Hibbing Fire, Another Life Claimed from Injuries

The Fire Broke Out Tuesday, December 26, 2017 Shortly After 1:00 a.m.

UPDATE: Authorities have identified the victims as 63-year-old Patricia Lynn Gillitzer, 67-year-old Steven Jon Gillitzer, and their grandson 9-year-old Todd Gillizter Jr., their 3-year-old grandson Isaiah was being treated for injuries at HCMC has reportedly died from his injuries. According to a press release from the Hibbing Fire Department, Steven Gillitzer was a retired Hibbing Fire Captain and served on…

Keeping the Pack Taken Care Of

Packare was Founded Nearly Five Years Ago by Duluthian Alicia Skjoelsvold

DULUTH, Minn. – Everything but lions, tigers and bears help keep Alicia Skjoelsvold’s business alive. “Kitties, pocket pets, sugar gliders, guinea pigs, rabbits, bearded dragons,” said Skjoelsvold. “We do pet sitting and dog walking.” The native Duluthian decided five years ago to leave her dream job; reality had set in and routine became a bore. “This time of year we…

How to Safely Heat your Home

Officials say space heaters are a safe option, but should be treated like a candle.

DULUTH, Minn.- It’s time for many Northlanders to bundle up outside and at home. Many locals are cranking up space heaters but officials want to remind us to warm up safely. This chilly time of year fire departments receive many of house calls. Space heaters are flying off the shelves at local shops, which are a common way to heat a…

How to Keep Vehicles Running Smooth in Freezing Temps

Drivers typically notice car battery problems in extreme temperatures.

DULUTH, Minn.- Its below freezing is the Northland, the chilling temperatures might make you want to bundle up inside. This cold of weather can also make your vehicle not want to move either. Auto repair shops are receiving many calls today from Northlanders struggling starting up their vehicles. The Automedics in Duluth is offering up some tips to help ensure…

Taking Shelter at Safe Haven

Experts say women in abusive situations tend to not leave this time of year.

DULUTH, Minn.- According to the National Resource of Domestic Violence Center calls of domestic abuse decline during the holidays. Advocates with Safe Haven Shelter and Resource Center say many reasons play a factor into victims staying in unhealthy relationships during the holidays. This year the safe haven shelter has serviced over 540 families, but a woman’s advocate says if children…

Music Therapy Providing Care to Hospice Patients

If you stopped into one of Natalie's sessions it would look like; just two friends and a guitar, catching up during a shared love of songs.

DULUTH, Minn.- Music brings many people together especially in hospice care. Music therapists play many roles in soothing and caring for patients. Experts say the songs can also help patient’s family members. Natalie Hest is a certified music therapist working for Essentia Health at the Solvay Hospice House. “As a music therapist I say I have the gift of time and…

Church celebrates “Awkward Family Christmas” stories

They say it's a fun way to celebrate togetherness and remember that life isn't perfect.

DULUTH, Minn. – Eastridge Community Church added a little holiday twist to their services on Sunday.  They held the “Awkward Family Christmas” series at their church on Arrowhead Road. They shared stories of their own awkward holiday struggles, and how the first Christmas was kind of awkward too. “You know, Jesus was born in a barn. Sometimes we share our Christmas…

Last-minute shoppers pick out presents for pets

A Place for Fido was the place to be for dog-lovers this christmas

DULUTH, Minn. – People in Duluth were out in search of that one last thing on their list this Christmas Eve. A Place for Fido in the Fitger’s complex had folks coming in and picking up gifts for that special member of the family…the dogs! Co-owner Jamie Parent says pets always appreciate a good gift, and it can give them…

Adventure North MN Has Pop-Up Shop That Gives Back To the Environment

Adventure North has funded organizations $1,000

DULUTH, Minn. – Adventure North MN usually operates out of a enclosed trailer kind of like a food truck, but since it’s cold… they opened a pop–up shop outside Bent Paddle Brewing in Duluth. The clothing brand launched in June 2016 and 10 percent of sales goes back to different organizations in Minnesota that protect the environment. They’re currently working with Friends…

Trailfitters Shares The Best Clothing To Stay Warm

Trailfitters says people are mostly looking for winter down jackets.

DULUTH, Minn. – Staying warm in the Northland can come down to the right clothing. Trailfitters in Duluth says that layers are essential to hold the warm air in. The type of material you buy can also determine if you’ll stay warm and dry. Cotton will keep you cold if it gets wet. While wool and synthetics won’t. “We get a…

CHUM Community Vigil Remembers Those Affected By Homelessness

CHUM's Street Outreach works with about 150-200 people a year.

DULUTH, Minn. – Nearly 100 people showed up at the steps of City Hall in Duluth for a memorial vigil. It was to honor people who’ve been homeless or who were homeless and died in 2017. “First off, they are people and they’re human beings and families. They’re part of our family. second, many of these folks are forgotten by…

Person Who Died in Gilbert Shooting Identified

Jeffrey John Golnick, 40, of Chaska, died of gunshot injuries

GILBERT, Minn. – The Midwest Medical Examiner’s Office has identified the person who died during an officer involved shooting incident on Friday, December 22, in the city of Gilbert. Jeffrey John Golnick, 40, of Chaska, died of gunshot injuries. Additional information, including the names of officers who discharged their weapons, will be available once initial interviews with the officers and any…

Northlanders Have An Option To Prepay 2018 Property Taxes

The St. Louis County Auditor's Office was busy with people calling wanting to pay their taxes early.  

DULUTH, Minn. – Here in the Northland taxpayers are able to pay their 2018 taxes based on their truth and taxation that was mailed out in Nov. By paying these taxes early one can deduct that from their income tax that is filed in April 2018. Officials recommend that all taxpayers speak to an accountant to determine best option. “As…

FIT4MOM Twin Ports Demonstrates Quick Workout for Busy Moms

Active Adventures: FIT4MOM Twin Ports

DULUTH, Minn. – The holiday season is extremely busy for families and sometimes it can be easy to pass on a regular workout routine. One Northland mom, Lisa Filzen, says there are ways to work something no matter how busy you may be. Filzen is the Owner of FIT4MOM Twin Ports. She says they offer a wide range of classes,…

Earth Rider Brewery Partners With Duluth Coffee Co. For Coffee-Infused Pale Ale

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Earth Rider Brewery in Superior is collaborating with Duluth Coffee Company to create a coffee-infused pale ale. Brewer Allyson Rolph says it’s a process being done in a way that she has never experienced before. “They brought in some sample coffees and we tasted them and we built a beer around that,” Rolph said. “So we were…

Make Every Child Smile Toy Drive

The toy drive is open for any Northland family in need.

DULUTH, Minn.– Four days until Christmas and Northlanders are busy shopping, the second annual Make Every Child Smile Toy Drive ensures all families can shop. The event is put together by a local entrepreneur Mike Letica. Letica said a Facebook post last year took off and now the toy drive will be an annual event. This year hundreds of gifts…

Play Gym Provides Fun Space for Little Northlanders

The city of Duluth invites little Northlanders to a free space of their own.

DULUTH, Minn.-  Parents looking to give their kids a space to play and meet others their age can now stop by one local spot. The Duluth Heights Community Center is hosting Play Gym, a free time open to preschool aged kids and parents. The event welcomes Northland families to come in, enjoy a warm space, and spend some quality time. On goers told FOX21 Play…

MISSING: Dennis Jesh, of St. Cloud

Last seen on Wednesday, Dec. 20, 2017

Dennis Jesh (BCA) Dennis Jesh (BCA) ST. CLOUD, Minn. – The Minnesota BCA and St. Cloud VA Police Department are seeking the public’s assistance in locating a 65-year-old veteran who was last seen on the St. Cloud VA Hospital campus. Dennis Anton Jesh was last seen Wednesday, Dec. 20 at approximately 3 p.m. wearing a black leather jacket and work…

Snowy Owl Migration Gives Scientists Chance to Study Them

TAMMY WEBBER - AP

CHICAGO (AP) — Scott Judd trained his camera lens on the white dot in the distance. As he moved up the Lake Michigan shoreline, the speck on a breakwater came into view and took his breath away: it was a snowy owl, thousands of miles from its Arctic home. “It was an amazing sight,” said Judd, a Chicago IT consultant….

Two Harbors High School Students to Host Civility Summit

DECA Program Creates Civility Summit for Community

TWO HARBORS, Minn. – Two Harbors High School students are working together to create a better environment for Northlanders. The school’s DECA program has created a Civility Summit they’re hosting on Friday, January 26. This summit is open to schools throughout the Northland, local businesses and residents. So far, more than 600 Northlanders have been invited. Students say the goal…

Crafting Holiday Cocktails with JJ Astor

Cooking Connection: Hot Buttered Rum

DULUTH, Minn. – The holiday season is here and Christmas is just four days away, with New Year’s Eve not far behind. For this week’s Cooking Connection we’re focusing on holiday drinks. FOX 21 Meteorologist William Seay got some tips to step up his bartending game. JJ Astor Food and Beverage Manager Kai Soderberg showed William how to make Hot…

Busy Holiday Travel in the Northland

The Duluth International Airport's main runaway is open just in time for holiday travel.

DULUTH, Minn.- This added snowfall is a sure sign a white Christmas is upon us in just five days and with that countdown comes the busy holiday travel. At the Duluth International Airport the main runway has been under construction for much of this year. Which forced planes to land on a much smaller runway, causing delays and diverted planes to…

Authorities Continue Search for Missing Redwood Falls Man

LAST SEEN OCT. 13

Mato Dow (BCA) UPDATE 12/20: The Redwood Falls Police Department and Minnesota BCA are still seeking assistance in locating 26-year-old Mato Dow of Redwood Falls. Authorities have provided a photo (above) of Mato shortly before he went missing. He was wearing a gray hooded sweatshirt, gray long shorts, and black/dark shoes. Mato was last seen on Oct 13. Anyone with…

Sen. Franken Will Officially Resign Jan. 2

WASHINGTON – Senator Al Franken’s last day in the U.S. Senate will be January 2, 2018, according to his office. Senator Designate Tina Smith will be sworn in the following day on, Jan. 3. Franken made the announcement of his resignation on Dec. 7 after multiple sexual misconduct allegations. Categories: Minnesota, News, News – Latest News, Political

Study: Moose on Lake Superior Island are Shrinking

Photo: MN DNRDULUTH, Minn. (AP) – Scientists studying the moose population on a national park in Lake Superior have discovered that the animal has been shrinking over the years. Minnesota Public Radio reports that Michigan Tech University scientists studied more than 660 moose skulls from Isle Royale National Park, which is located about 25 miles off the tip of northeastern…

Avoiding Pet Decorating Dangers this Season

Staff at Animal Allies Humane Society in Duluth Offer Tips on How to Keep Your Pets Safe this Holiday Season

DULUTH, Minn. – By now many folks are probably rocking around the Christmas tree, but did you know your holiday decorations could be a danger to some in the household? Michelle Sternberg, Marketing and Communications Manager and Lindsay Snustad, Executive Director of Animal Allies Humane Society visited FOX 21 Local News to offer a few tips on keeping your furry friends…

Twin Ports Send Off Last Ocean Bound Vessel of Season

The last ocean going vessel is shipping out of the Twin Ports Tuesday night.

DULUTH, Minn.- The Beautrix will be the last ocean going vessel of the season to ship out of the Twin Ports. Tuesday night the Beatrix is loading spring wheat destined for the United Kingdom. So far this year nearly 700 vessels visited the Twin Ports. Northlanders will see plenty more ships coming in, but Beatrix is the last to head out…

Toyland Express Provides for Families in Need

The Salvation Army plans to serve nearly 2,300 families during the event.

DULUTH, Minn.-  The Salvation Army is helping put presents under the tree for nearly 2,300 Northland families this week. Families that are going through tough times met with the non-profit and are now welcomed to shop from the donated toys, for their children. The Salvation Army told FOX21 this event is a well run machine which relies on many volunteers….

1st Republican Enters Race to Complete Franken’s Senate Term

Sen. Karin Housley (MN Senate) ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) – The first Republican candidate has announced a bid for Democratic Sen. Al Franken’s seat in 2018. State Sen. Karin Housley launched her campaign Tuesday for the special election to complete Franken’s term, which ends in 2020. Democratic Gov. Mark Dayton’s pick to hold the seat until the special election, Lt….

Minnesota Department of Health Commissioner Resigning After Senior Care Lapses

Official Government PhotoST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) – Minnesota’s Department of Health commissioner is resigning. Gov. Mark Dayton’s office announced Tuesday that Commissioner Ed Ehlinger would step down. Ehlinger had been head of the state’s health oversight board since 2011. The announcement didn’t specify why Ehlinger was resigning but it follows reporting by the Star Tribune on serious oversight lapses of…