Minnesota

40th Annual ‘Finn Fest’ Returns to the DECC

DULUTH, Minn.– For forty years now, the Finn Fest at the DECC has connected the northland with both old, and modern Finnish cultures and customs. Guests can immerse themselves with everything ranging from art & music, food, and simply language. “‘Fin Fest’ is all about celebrating all things Finnish and Finnish American, and bringing modern Finland with Finnish America and…

Duluth Judge Eric L. Hylden to retire

Honorable Eric L. Hylden DULUTH, Min. – Governor Tim Walz has announced the retirement of the Honorable Eric L. Hylden. He’s a judge in the Sixth Judicial District seated in Duluth. Governor Walz is now asking for application for the vacancy. A news release from the Governor’s Office says applications for the position are due by 4:00 pm on August…

Solvay Hospice House reopens after pause for MNA strike

DULUTH, Min. – Essentia Health and the Miller Dwan Foundation is resuming hospice patient care at Solvay Hospice House in Duluth. The facility had temporarily suspended services as a result of the Minnesota Nurses Association (MNA) strike. Starting Thursday, July 31 Solvay Hospice House will reopen and be ready to provide hospice care. Solvay will welcome residential hospice patients and…

Two New Members and Officers Announced on Northland Foundation Board of Trustees

DULUTH, Minn. – The Northland Foundation’s Board of Trustees has two new members and announced its Board Officers for the coming year. The new Trustees are Rachel Hedlund of Ely and Dr. Rick Revoir of Duluth. Hedlund works for Friends of the Boundary Waters as the Ely Education and Outreach Manager. Rachel Hedlund She has spent a decade working for…

Coffee Conversation: Local Christian Band Presence Music Upcoming Performances

DULUTH, Minn. — Members of local Christian pop-worship band Presence Music stopped by to share exciting updates on their ministry and music. The band, led by owner, vocalist, and pastor Brandon Monson and his wife Leah Monson, has some major performances on the horizon. Fans can catch Presence Music live at: Recovery on the Hill – Thursday, July 31, 6:00–8:30 PM at…

‘Force on Fifth Avenue’ Close to Opening

DULUTH, Minn. – “Force on Fifth Avenue,” the new housing development, is close to opening in downtown Duluth. “I’m proud of this particular project because it’s really the gateway to downtown Duluth and to our community. And as you can see, we’re doing work out there now to make sure it’s beautiful,” said Brian Forcier, president of Titanium Partners. That…

Community Boards ‘Blue Heron’ Research Vessel for “Freshwater Discovery Day”

DULUTH, Minn.– Today, the community got a front row seat to discover what student scientists at the ‘Blue Heron’ research vessel participates in. The Large Lakes Observatory is a research group that is in connection with UMD. It brings an opportunity for both undergraduate, and graduate students to receive hands on experience. “It is the only research-intensive campus that sits…

Staying Fit in the Northland During Poor Air Quality

DULUTH, Minn. — With summer wildfire smoke blanketing the region and triggering repeated air quality alerts, local gyms offer ways to stay active indoors. Northland Fitness, a 24/7-access gym in Lincoln Park says workout facilities are a great way to avoid the smoke and get your exercise in. While Duluth is known for its scenic trails and active outdoor lifestyle,…

Minnesota teen the youngest ever to medal at World Aquatics Championship

DULUTH, Minn. – An 18-year-old from Minnesota medaled in the High Dive at 2025 World Aquatics Championships in Singapore. Just three weeks prior you might have seen Maya Kelly jumping into Duluth Harbor in the Superior High Dive Challenge. Fast forward she won a bronze medal. Making her the youngest ever to make the podium for the High Dive World Aquatics…

New Housing Data Shows Duluth Has Much More Work To Do

DULUTH, Minn.- If you’re having trouble finding somewhere to live in Duluth, you’re not alone. And a recent study confirms the problem. The local vacancy rate for rentals is only at 1.8 percent, and only around 58 percent of people living in Duluth actually own the roof over their head, according to Maxfield Research and Consulting, who was hired by the…

Most of Minnesota will have ‘Unhealthy Air’ until Saturday afternoon

DULUTH, Min.  – The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency has issued an air quality alert for all of Minnesota. Most of the state will be in the “Unhealth Air” category until 5 p.m. on Saturday, August 2, 2025. Effective 1 p.m. on Tuesday, July 29, 2025 parts of Minnesota north of Mankato are in the Red Alert status. Air Quality Alert…

Minnesota’s Task Force 1 Returns from Texas

Minnesota Task Force 1 ST. PAUL, Min. – Minnesota’s Task force 1 has returned from their deployment to Texas. They were sent to assist with search and rescue efforts following the deadly flooding on July Fourth. Minnesota Task Force 1 is one of the state’s two urban search and rescue teams. A team of five rescuers and two K-9s, Red and…

Tree Falls on Boy While Camping, Boy Uninjured

Buhl, MN. via Bing Maps © 2025 Microsoft BUHL, Minn. — A child is unharmed after a tree fell on him during a camping trip on Sunday. Emergency responders were dispatched to the Stubler Beach Campground in Buhl following a report of a 7-year-old child trapped beneath a tree. Strong thunderstorms and high winds that swept through the area early…

St. Scholastica & Mankato State Launches Engineering Dual Degree Pathway

  DULUTH, Minn.– The College of Saint Scholastica is partnering with Minnesota State Mankato to launch a new engineering program partnership. This dual pathway program is giving students the chance to earn a degree in both natural science and also integrated engineering. This is the first dual degree pathway of its kind. The five year long degree covers two and…

St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office releases Body-Worn and Squad Video video of Normanna shooting

Muzzle flash shown on Squad Camera from July 15th, 2025 Normanna Officer Involved Shooting. DULUTH, Min. – The St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office released videos from the the officer-involved shooting that took place in Normanna Township on July 15, 2025. The released video is from the body-worn cameras and squad video during the moments leading up to, during, and immediately…

The ‘Federal Budget Bill’ impacts on SNAP in Minnesota

Who Currently Receives Benefits MINNESOTA — The Federal Budget Bill also called Trumps “Big, Beautiful Bill” has significant changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). 440,000 Minnesotans currently participate in SNAP in an average month. Most of those utilizing SNAP are children, adults with children, seniors, and those with a disability. The Minnesota Department of Children, Youth, and Families…

Governor Walz activates Minnesota National Guard following cyberattack

ST. PAUL, Min. – Governor Tim Walz issued an executive order activating the Minnesota National Guard following a hack on the city of St. Paul. The order went into effect on July 29, 2025. Minnesota National Guard’s cyber protection assets were called up. The Governor’s Office says the magnitude and complexity of the cybersecurity incident have exceeded the city’s response…

Coffee Conversation: Local Musician Ross Thorn Releases New Album, Performs Live

DULUTH, Minn. — Local Musician Ross Thorn joined Fox 21 live on the morning newscast Tuesday, July 29, to talk about his new album and an upcoming album release show. Thorn, a folk and country musician in Duluth, will be playing  an album release show at Bent Paddle on Wednesday, August 6th, before heading out on a national tour. He performed…

Wanted Man Arrested In Greysolon Apartments After Standoff

DULUTH, Minn. — The Greysolon Apartments in downtown Duluth became the center of a standoff Monday. Duluth police said a 37-year-old man wanted for felony domestic assault barricaded himself in a bedroom of an apartment. The man was originally arrested Friday for the alleged assault. But at some point Friday, police said he fled a local hospital while in custody….

Vehicle smashes into State Patrol vehicle spinning it 75-feet

UPDATE: The vehicle that hit the trooper’s squad was a 2018 Kia Sportage. — DULUTH, Min. – A vehicle crashed into a Minnesota State Patrol vehicle on Highway 53, spinning it 75-feet from the impact site. The St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the crash that happened just after 11am on Monday, July 28, 2025. They’re reporting the Trooper’s…

Air Quality Alert for northern half of Minnesota until Wednesday night

Air Quality Alert 07/28/2025 DULUTH, Min.- The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency has issued an air quality alert for the northern half of Minnesota. Northwesterly winds will transport heavy surface smoke from wildfires across Manitoba and Saskatchewan into northern Minnesota, beginning Tuesday morning. Smoke will spread south into central Minnesota through the day Tuesday and may continue into southern Minnesota overnight…

‘Mango’ the Lion Cub Has Successful Surgeries

Mango the Lion Cub’s surgery 7/28/25 SANDSTONE, Minn.– The Wildcat Sanctuary in Sandstone rescued an 8-week-old lion cub last week. On Monday, July 28, 2025 she had to undergo surgery to correct some genetic complications. Mango the lion cub at the Wildcat Sanctuary in Sandstone was gearing up for surgery. She had a herniated umbilical cord that caused her intestines…

‘Head of the Lakes United Way’ Launches Free Babysitting Classes

  DULUTH, Minn.– ‘Head of the Lakes United Way’ teamed up with the American Red Cross to give kids the opportunity for a valuable childcare class. The babysitting classes caters to kids aged 11 to 17 who are interested in seeing what it’s all about. The free 1-day course covers everything from basic first aid, to fun activities while babysitting….

Bridge Repairs on I-35, Traffic Reducing to One Lane

Courtesy of MnDOT Website DULUTH, Minn. — Crews are starting road is starting on a section of I-35. The northbound lane of I-35 between 40th and 26th avenues west will close for bridge repairs. Traffic will be crossed over into the southbound lanes once the crossovers are created. Motorists can expect single lane head-to-head traffic until the repairs are completed….

Duluth Council to Review Revised Child Care Ordinance

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth City Council will discuss the amendments made regarding daycare facilities and definitions tomorrow. The proposed ordinance will allow childcare facilities to operate in residential areas by modifying zoning rules and definitions, and was tabled last Monday. This delay was decided on by the council, allowing time for revisions that clarify the language and ensure the rules align…

City Council to Revisit Transportation Commission

  DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth City Council will be discussing the ordinance regarding establishing a Duluth Transportation Commission tomorrow. This proposed ordinance was tabled last Monday due to staff edits that still needed to be put together and reviewed before proceeding further. At last Thursday’s meeting, the City Administrator said it will be a few more weeks before the…

City Charter Commission Recommends Duluth Council Pay Increase

DULUTH, Minn. — A pay increase is being recommended for Duluth city councilors, which would be the first increase since 2018. The City Charter Commission is proposing councilors be paid $1,425 a month, up from $1,150 per month, bringing a councilor’s annual pay to $17,100. For all nine councilors, the increase would add up to $29,700 out of the $108…

Man With Mental Health Issues Found Naked in MN Capitol, Raising New Security Cncerns

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — A naked man with apparent mental health issues was found in the Minnesota State Capitol late at night, officials said Saturday, raising questions about security after the top Democrat in the state House was killed in what authorities have called a political assassination. The discovery just six weeks after the fatal shooting of Democratic former House Speaker…

Wildcat Sanctuary Rescues Small Lion Family from Canadian Roadside Zoo

SANDSTONE, Meet Mango, a feisty ambitious 8-week-old lion cub. She is just one of three recent rescues the Wildcat Sanctuary took on just two days ago. They were saved from a Canadian roadside show. “This is a really unique rescue, not only because it was international and we had so many permits and so much process to get through, to…

Katie Sandstrom 2nd woman Promoted to Captain in Duluth Fire History

DULUTH, Minn. — The Duluth Fire Department has promoted Katie Sandstrom to Captain. She is the second female to be promoted to captain in DFD history. She has been with the Department for over 8 years, recently serving as a fire fighter on Tower 1 out of Headquarters. Captain Sandstrom receiving her Red Helmet, Courtesy of Duluth Fire Department Facebook…

DLH Debuts Visual Sound Bath

DULUTH, Minn.- The Visual Sound Bath art installation officially opened at the Duluth Airport. For many, traveling can be a stressful experience, especially when it comes to flying, and over the years, airports have turned to public art to create a welcoming and calming environment for passengers. “The airport has a long-standing history of the public display of art and…

‘Duluth Whiskey Project’ Opens its Doors

DULUTH, Minn.– Lincoln Park is ‘uncorking’ its latest addition to the craft district today. Nestled onto superior street near brewery neighbors, ‘Duluth Whiskey Project’ was undergoing construction since last August. But this opportunity has been a dream for owner Kevin Evans for over a decade. The building features seating for 124 guests at the bar, and taproom. They’re offering a…

MN E-Bike Rebate Program Opening for Applications July 30th

Minnesota’s E-bike rebate program opens for applications soon. Residents under a certain income level or have a disability are eligible to apply. The rebate is worth 75%, or up to $750, off of the cost of a new e-bike. Approved accessories such as helmets, luggage racks, and reflective clothing can be included in the rebate. The online application opens July…

Coffee Conversation: FinnFest Returns to Duluth This Month

DULUTH, Minn. — FinnFest is making a much-anticipated return to Duluth from July 31 to August 3, bringing with it a vibrant celebration of Finnish culture, traditions, and innovation. Executive Director Ira “Mimmu” Salmela joined Fox 21 live Thursday morning to share the excitement. Held at the DECC, the four-day event will feature traditional and contemporary Finnish music, authentic cuisine,…

Duluth’s Best Bread Speaks on Incline Village Fallout

SUPERIOR, Wis. – The owner of Duluth’s Best Bread expressed disappointment after hearing a business fallout involving the proposed Incline Village Development in Duluth. The popular bakery planned to be the first retail tenant for the development on the old Central High School property off of central entrance. But just this week, the project’s construction development company, ICS, terminated its contract…

Governor Walz: Canadians should visit Minnesota

ST. PAUL, Min. – Governor Tim Walz is asking Canadians to visit Minnesota. In a news release he said, “We value that connection and the many ways our cultures overlap — from hockey to fishing, and from buffalo plaid to a bold winter spirit. We want our Canadian neighbors know they’re not just welcome here — they’re encouraged to visit…

Minnesota Department of Safety Launches MMIR Tip Program

  ST. PAUL, Minn.– Today during a press conference, the Minnesota Department of Public Safety unveiled a new tip program. This was established to bring closure and justice for families impacted by Missing Murdered Indigenous Relatives. State officials, as well as law enforcement joined together to launch this powerful tool. A reward fund is being opened on the behalf of…

Duluth East Freshman Qualifies for Figure Skating National Showcase

DULUTH, Minn.– a Duluth east freshman is gearing up to compete in a national level competition for a figure skating showcase. Since age 7, Brynn Sterling of Duluth has been learning and growing with this sport. And next week, she will represent Duluth for the U.S. Figure skating National Showcase. When it comes to figure skating, there’s a lot of…

Man accused of raping juvenile then giving her “Morning After Pill” birth control

MOUNTAIN IRON, Minn. – A man is accused of raping a juvenile girl then giving her the Plan B birth control “Morning After Pill” following the rape. Eric Kye Gatewood, 22, Virginia is charged with one count of Criminal Sexual Conduct in the Third Degree. Police documents say Gatewood took a juvenile victim to run an errand. The victim then…

Founders of Hibbing-based non-profit removed after settlement with Minnesota Attorney General

HIBBING, Minn. & ST. PAUL, Minn. – The Minnesota Attorney General’s Office has worked to remove George and Georgia Andria from the Borealis Art Guild’s board and bank accounts. The Attorney General’s Office announced July 23, 2025 they reached separate settlements with both the Borealis Art Guild, and its founders, George and Georgia Andria. There have been allegations that the nonprofit’s…

Sheriff’s Office looking for help in positively identifying victim found in house fire

UPDATE:  The Sheriff’s Office has made contact with next of Kin for Susan Hein.  They also have updated her age to be 67. — DULUTH, Minn. – Two people were found dead in Beatty Township the evening of July 17, 2025. Nearly a week later, the St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office is asking for help in positively identifying one person…

Emerald Ash Borer discovered for first time in Itasca County; Emergency quarantine in place

Itasca County EAB Emergency Quarantine 07/23/2025 ITASCA COUNTY, Minn. – The Minnesota Department of Agriculture has confirmed emerald ash borer (EAB) in Itasca County for the first time. A suspected EAB infestation was reported by a homeowner on Pokegama Lake, south of Grand Rapids. Because this is the first time EAB has been identified in Itasca County, the Minnesota Department of…

Air Quality Alert issued for entire northern half of Minnesota

Air Quality Alert 07/23/2025 DULUTH, Minn. –  The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency has expanded the current air quality alert. Nearly all of Minnesota north of St. Cloud is now in the new Red or “Unhealthy” Air Alert. The affected area includes the International Falls, Two Harbors, Hibbing, Ely and Duluth. It is in effect until Friday July 25, 2025 at 11…