News

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…

Sen. Nicole Mitchell resigns early following felony conviction

ST. PAUL, Minn. — State Senator Nicole Mitchell has officially resigned from office. Mitchell had previously announced plans to step down on August 4th, saying she needed time to finish legislative work and secure health benefits for her son. State Senator Nicole Mitchell/Facebook However, in a Facebook post, Mitchell said today would be her final day in the Senate. “I…

Gov. Evers Grants 204 Pardons, for a total of more than 1,600 Pardons as Governer

WISCONSIN — Governer Evers granted 204 pardons today, July 25th, bringing his total pardons during his tenure to 1,640. The pardons are described as an act of forgiveness. Individuals pardoned have completed their sentence at least five years ago and have no pending criminal charges. Most of those pardoned did the crime in their late teens and 20s, and these…

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…

Governor Tony Evers of Wisconsin Addresses Retirement in ‘Love Letter’ Video

DULUTH, Minn.–Earlier today, Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers announced that he will not be running for a third time for his seat as Governor. With this announcement, Evers released what he called his ‘love letter’ to Wisconsin, to reminisce on his time as Governor. “I cherish every moment, every tour, every visit high five, question and selfie. It’s the honor of…

‘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…

Governor Tony Evers announces he will not run for re-election

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Wisconsin’s Democratic governor, Tony Evers, announced Thursday that he will not seek a third term in 2026, creating the first open race for governor in the battleground state in 16 years. It will be Wisconsin’s highest profile race next year, as Democrats also angle to take control of the Legislature thanks to redrawn election maps that…

Wrestling Superstar Hulk Hogan has died at the age of 71

CLEARWATER, Fla. (AP) — Hulk Hogan, a mustachioed, headscarf-wearing icon in professional wrestling who turned the sport into a massive business and cultural touchstone, died Thursday at age 71, Florida police said. In Clearwater, Florida, authorities responded to a morning call about a cardiac arrest. Hogan was pronounced dead at a hospital, police said in a statement on Facebook. Hogan,…

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…

Judge sentences Bryan Kohberger to life in prison for murdering four University of Idaho students in 2022

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — Friends and relatives of four University of Idaho students murdered in their rental home by Bryan Kohberger delivered powerful statements of love, anguish and condemnation as his sentencing hearing began Wednesday. “This world was a better place with her in it,” Scott Laramie, the stepfather of Madison Mogen, told the court. ”Karen and I are ordinary…

‘Coolest Thing in Minnesota’ Contest Nominations Open Until Aug. 15th

Minn. — Time is running out to nominate products for the ‘Coolest Thing Made in Minnesota’ Contest. The nomination window closes August 15th. The first bracket will be announced September 2nd. Products will be voted on in head-to-head matchups until October 5th, and the winner announced October 7th. The Minnesota Chamber of Commerce holds this contest to highlight the creativity…

Coffee Conversation: Hoyt Lakes Water Carnival Kicks Off This Week

DULUTH, Minn. — The 2025 Hoyt Lakes Water Carnival is set to make a splash from July 24th to 27th, bringing four days of fun, family-friendly entertainment to the community. Joining the morning show live Wednesday morning to preview the event were committee members Nikki Swanson and Cherie Grams, along with reigning Queen Ashley Fossell. Highlights of the carnival include…

Minnesota Woman Turns Nature Passion into Kids’ Book Series

MINNESOTA — Jess DeWindt is turning her love for the outdoors into a children’s book series, Outdoor Kids, while also sharing her personal journey with infertility. The six-book collection encourages families to unplug and explore nature, inspired by Jess and her husband Kirk’s dreams of one day adventuring with children of their own. “We’ve struggled with infertility for a few…

Superior YMCA Whalers Swim Team Takes on AAU Junior Olympics

DULUTH, Minn. – Seven swimmers from the Superior YMCA Whalers Swim Team are taking on the AAU Junior Olympic National Games. The six-day competition began today in Houston, Texas, bringing together top youth swimmers from across the country and several other nations. The Whalers qualified after strong performances throughout the season and are representing Superior, Hermantown, and Esko at this…

Duluth Schools Asst. Supt. Arrested For DWI

DULUTH, Minn. — Duluth Public Schools on Tuesday said its assistant superintendent, Anthony Bonds, was arrested overnight for drunken driving. In a statement, a district spokesperson said this is a first-time DWI offense for Bonds. Bonds started with ISD-709 in 2020. The district said it is “committed to transparency that is consistent with the law to ensure the community is…

City Council Tables Daycare Zoning Proposal for Further Review

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth City Council decided to table the ordinance regarding daycare facilities. The Duluth City Council tabled a proposed zoning change that would make it easier to open daycare centers in residential areas without a special use permit. Councilors stated that they require additional time to ensure everything is finalized and ready before proceeding. “What we’re really…

City Council Approves to Extend Seasonal Closure Dates on Skyline Parkway

DUUTH, Minn. –  The Duluth City Council voted to extend the seasonal closure of Skyline Parkway. The sections of Skyline Parkway that normally close from December 1 to April 15 will now extend to May 15. Frequent weather-related delays, which have occurred in four out of the past five years, have added pressure to the Street Maintenance and Communications departments,…

Cannabis Lottery Selects 75 More Applicants for License

MINNESOTA — The Office of Cannabis Management held a license lottery July 22.  75 candidates were selected from the pool of over 550 retail license applicants. The OCM livestreamed the lottery, and will post the selected application numbers online, and communicate directly with the businesses about their selection. Chosen businesses aren’t automatically granted the license. They will still need to…

Great Lakes Aquarium Celebrates 25 Years by Unveiling Time Capsule

DULUTH, Minn.– The Great Lakes Aquarium is making history today, as well as reflecting on it, by opening their time capsule from 25 years ago. The aquarium wasted no time diving into history to reminisce on the time they first opened. Inside the capsule, guests got to check out the unveiling of numerous news clippings and magazines highlighting the beginning….

Man faces charges after Highway 53 chase

  VIRGINIA, Minn. — A man was taken into custody on Sunday after a police pursuit ended in Eveleth. At about 11:30 am Sunday July 20, 2025, Saint Louis County Deputies received an alert of a suspect in connection to Domestic assault, no contact order violation, weapons possession, and threats to law enforcement and the general public. The incident originated…

Department of Public Safety creates tip program to help advance missing and murdered Indigenous relatives’ cases

Minn. — The Minnesota Department of Public Safety’s Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives (MMIR) Office will announce the official opening of the state’s Gaagige-Mikwendaagoziwag Reward Fund Tip Program. Minnesota Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives (MMIR) Office logo Lawmakers established the state’s Gaagige-Mikwendaagoziwag Reward Fund Account during the 22-23 legislative session. The purpose of the fund’s tip program is to bring…

“Visual Sound Bath” Art Installation at the Duluth International Airport

  DULUTH, Minn. — Visitors can listen to the new “visual sound bath” at the Duluth International Airport.  It’s a new art display by multi-media visual artist Leonarda Boughton. Boughton, a frequent traveler through the city of Duluth, designed the “Visual Sound Bath” in the walkway between the parking garage and the airport terminal. The installation changes with the movement…

The Isabella Section House Reimagined Project Seeks Public Input

ISABELLA, Minn. — The Isabella Section House Reimagined project is seeking public feedback on what the future of the historic building should be. Isabella Section House, Image courtesy of the United States Forest Service The project has people take a virtual tour and give their thoughts on what the building should be used for. Project leaders are looking for a…

St. Paul man accused of driving to Cloquet to see 13-year-old he met on Snapchat

DULUTH, Min – A flat tire on the way to Minneapolis might not lead to an arrest for every driver. But if you are hiding something in your backseat, it will. On July 10th, 2025, 25-year-old Joshua Patrick Baxter was arrested on one count of criminal sexual conduct in the first and second degree both involving a 13-year-old girl. Earlier…

MN Nurses Association To End Strike With Essentia Health

DULUTH, Minn. — The Minnesota Nurses Association sent out a news release late Monday that said the remaining striking nurses at Essentia Health in the Twin Ports will end the strike. News Release: July 21, 2025 – Tomorrow, Tuesday, July 22 at 10:00 AM, striking members of the Minnesota Nurses Association at Essentia’s clinics, surgery center, hospice house and East…

Girl Dies After Being Hit By Vehicle In Burnett County

WOOD RIVER TOWNSHIP, Wis. — A 10-year-old girl has died after being struck by a vehicle in Burnett County. It happened Sunday around 11:50 a.m. in the parking lot at the Burnett Dairy Cooperative in Wood River Township, according to the Burnett County Sheriff’s Office. Investigators said the incident appears to be accidental. The victim’s identity was not immediately released….