News

DEDA Approves $54,500 to Secure Kozy Building

DULUTH, Minn.– A series of break-ins at the condemned Kozy building in downtown Duluth has the city beefing up security around the property. DEDA, or the Duluth Economic Development Authority, which owns the Kozy building has approved just under $55,000 to add lighting and security cameras, remove graffiti, and further board up the building that’s seen numerous fires over the…

Party Supply Rental Stores Getting Busy

DULUTH, Minn. One rental store in Duluth says they are expecting a big year for business as the pandemic slows down. Over at London Road Rental, which has the same owner as Party Express in Superior, business has been growing for those renting out tents and other supplies for parties as restrictions are loosened. Owner Jerry Kortesmaki tells us last…

Special Report Preview: When Love Turns Deadly

Story to air Sunday on FOX 21 Local News at 9

A special report – When Love Turns Deadly – Sunday night on FOX 21 News at 9: “This wasn’t an accident. This man knew who he was taking from us. He saw my mom and he decided that nobody else could have her,” said Kari Matthes, Loretta Billman’s daughter. The daughter of 62-year-old Loretta Billman speaks out to FOX 21’s…

Suspect Formally Charged in Piedmont Standoff

DULUTH, Minn. – Duluth Police say the man arrested in connection to last week’s standoff in the Piedmont Heights neighborhood has been formally charged. According to court documents, 31-year-old Jesse Lee Fechner has been charged with felony receiving stolen property, possessing ammo/any firearm, two counts of fourth-degree assault on a police officer, and obstructing legal process with force. Last week,…

Hayward Community Preparing for Fishing Opener

After five years, the muskie capitol of the world is set to host the annual Governors Fishing Opener this weekend in Hayward.  

HAYWARD, Wisc. — After five years, the muskie capitol of the world is set to host the annual Governors Fishing Opener this weekend in Hayward. “I would probably suggest maybe small mouth fishing if you’re looking at targeting a little bit bigger species. If you’re looking to catch and capture maybe take something home to eat before the opener I…

Superior Business Gets Ready for Wisconsin Fishing Opener

SUPERIOR, Wis.-Staff at Northwest Outlet in Superior are getting busier as the Wisconsin fishing opener is this weekend. Some of the more popular items that always sell well this time of year are tackle boxes and lures. Management added sun protective shirts, shorts, and hats are also hot sellers. Overall staff say business has been good this year, despite the…

COVID-19 Cases, Hospitalizations Trend Up in Itasca County as Vaccine Rollout Continues

Itasca County Public Health Division Urges All Residents to Research and Receive Their COVID-19 Vaccination

GRAND RAPIDS, Minn. – Itasca County Public Health and area residents are reflecting on the gratitude of science after surpassing the one-year anniversary of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Public Health Department reports new cases of COVID-19 to continue to rise in Itasca County, especially among residents aged 30 – 50, and school-aged children. As of Thursday, April 29, in the…

Report: Aaron Rodgers Wants out of Green Bay

Aaron Rodgers (AP) MILWAUKEE, Wis. – Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers is “disgruntled” and allegedly does not want to return to the team, according to ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter. Schefter reports the team is “aware” of his feelings. After the NFC Championship Game, Rodgers wondered aloud about his future in Green Bay. Speculation about the coming years has swirled since the team drafted quarterback Jordan Love in…

Judge Rules Against Wisconsin GOP in Redistricting Case

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — A judge has ruled that Republican leaders of the Wisconsin Legislature illegally hired private taxpayer-funded attorneys to represent them in anticipation of lawsuits over redistricting. The lawsuit filed by attorney Lester Pines on behalf of four Madison teachers argued that state law does not allow for legislative leaders to hire attorneys outside the state Department of…

Gov. Walz Joins Bipartisan Leaders in Minnesota Legislature to Call for Action on Police Reform

ST, PAUL, Minn. – On Thursday, Gov. Walz joined bipartisan leaders in the Minnesota Legislature to call for action among Minnesota Senate Republicans on police reform, following the passage of meaningful police reform legislation in the Minnesota House. “The accountability we saw last week for George Floyd is the floor – not the ceiling – of what we need to…

Midday Update 4-29-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Thursday, April 29, 2021

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Thursday, April 29, 2021. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, midday update, News, weather

Sweeten Mom Up with Desserts from The Cozy Hen this Mother’s Day

Cooking Connection: Turtle Cheesecake with The Cozy Hen

DULUTH, Minn.- In this week’s Cooking Connection, Meteorologist Ken Slama is on the quest to find the best dessert options in the Northland for Mother’s Day. The Cozy Hen creates handcrafted cheesecakes that are out of this world. This week’s segment features The Cozy Hen’s Turtle Cheesecake. Click here for more information. Categories: Community, Cooking Connection, News, News – Latest…

Business Owners On Lake Vermilion Optimistic for Much Better Summer Season

The Owners of Lake Vermilion Houseboats and Pike Bay Lodge Look Forward to Welcoming Guests Back to the Great Outdoors

LAKE VERMILION, Minn. – After a year of the unknown and countless cancellations, the summer season is looking brighter for businesses along Lake Vermilion. “This year is looking to be our best year-to-date,” said Kyle Colbert, owner of Lake Vermilion Houseboats. The scene is calm on Lake Vermilion, but many business owners are preparing for a stampede of activity as…

Morning Update 4-29-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Thursday, April 29, 2021

  Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Thursday, April 29, 2021. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, morning update, News, weather

US Economy Accelerated at a Robust 6.4% Rate Last Quarter

WASHINGTON (AP) – The U.S. economy grew at a brisk 6.4% annual rate last quarter — a show of strength fueled by government aid and declining viral cases that could drive further gains as the nation rebounds with unusual speed from the pandemic recession. Thursday’s report from the Commerce Department estimated that the nation’s gross domestic product — its total…

Sections of Downtown Duluth Streets to Close Temporarily

The closures will last from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

DULUTH, Minn. —  On Thursday, a part of East 1st street between north 2nd avenue east and north 1st avenue east will be closed to traffic. The closures will last from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. During that same time, north 2nd avenue east between east 1st and 2nd street will also be closed to traffic. The sidewalk will also be…

MN Supreme Court Decision Delays PolyMet Mine

ST. PAUL, Minn.– The Minnesota Supreme Court made a major ruling on Wednesday, which could have a big impact on the future of the proposed $1 billion PolyMet copper-nickel mine near Hoyt Lakes. The justices confirmed a lower court’s decision to reverse PolyMet’s “permit to mine” for now, adding that the DNR should now set a fixed time period for…

UMD Students Kayak Lake Superior

DULUTH, Minn.– With the nice day outside Wednesday, some UMD students spent time out on the water. Led by UMD’s outdoor recreation program, students learned how to kayak. They started along Park Point and paddled under the lift bridge, around the William A. Irvin, and other popular spots around Canal Park. “It’s been an isolating semester. It’s been an isolating…

Vigil Honors Healthcare Workers Who’ve Died of COVID-19

DULUTH, Minn.– It’s been a long and exhausting year for healthcare workers who have been on the frontlines fighting COVID-19. And Wednesday, a group of Duluth residents got together to show their support. Community members lined up along 3rd Street in downtown Duluth. The local chapter of the United Steelworkers Union held a memorial for healthcare workers who lost their…

Pop-Up Vaccination Clinics Opening in Smaller Communities

PROCTOR, Minn.-As the pandemic continues on, more vaccination clinics are popping up around the region. Today the Proctor turf facility opened its doors to more than 100 people seeking their first dose of the vaccine. St. Louis County Public Health leaders say this is the first time they’ve had a clinic in that area before, as they work to get…

Local Campgrounds Prep for Busy Camping Season

DULUTH, Minn-After being cooped up all winter, many of us are looking for ways to get out of the house and camping is a popular option. Many campgrounds, including Buffalo Valley Campground, are preparing for another busy year of guests filling up their campsites.  After a cold and windy winter, there is no shortage of work to be done to…

Annual Memorial Tree Planting Service Takes Place in Superior

The memorial also kicks off the tree planting season in Superior.

SUPERIOR, Wisc. — Superior held its annual memorial tree planting this morning at Bear Creek Park in Superior. It’s meant as a form of dedication to all those in Superior who have lost their lives while on the job. So far, the city has planted these tribune trees for over two decades. “It’s also our celebration of trees. Superior has…

WATCH TONIGHT: Biden to Pitch Sweeping ‘Family Plan’ in Speech to Congress

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden will use his first joint address to Congress to pitch a $1.8 trillion investment in children, families, and education that would transform the role government plays in American life. Biden delivers the Wednesday speech on the eve of his 100th day in office. Biden will make his case before a pared-down gathering of mask-wearing…

Wisconsin State Fair Preparing For in-Person Event in August

MILWAUKEE (AP) — The Wisconsin State Fair is preparing to return this summer after the coronavirus pandemic wiped out the event for the first time in 75 years, organizers said Wednesday. The fair scheduled Aug. 5-15 will have increased sanitation protocols in place, some of which have yet to be determined. Mask requirements, vaccine passports, and rapid testing have been…

Minnesota Department of Health Reports 22 more COVID-19 deaths Wednesday

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota health officials reported 1,514  new cases of COVID-19 in Minnesota on Wednesday bringing the total confirmed COVID cases to 572,025 in the state. Health officials also reported 22 news deaths bringing the death total to 7,113  in Minnesota. The 22 newly reported deaths included four long-term care residents and one person in their 30s. According…

Feds Search Rudy Giuliani’s NYC Home, Office

NEW YORK (AP) — A law enforcement official tells the Associated Press that federal investigators have executed search warrants at Rudy Giuliani’s Manhattan residence and office. The former New York City mayor has been under investigation for several years over his business dealings in Ukraine. Details of the reasons for Wednesday’s searches were not immediately available. The officials who confirmed…

Midday Update 4-28-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Wednesday, April 28, 2021

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Wednesday, April 28, 2021. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, midday update, News, weather

Supreme Court Orders New Hearing In PolyMet Mine Dispute

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) – The Minnesota Supreme Court has given a victory to environmentalists in the long-running battle over the proposed PolyMet copper-nickel mine in northeastern Minnesota. The court on Wednesday sent the dispute back to the state Department of Natural Resources for further proceedings on whether the mine’s waste pond would effectively keep pollution contained. The Supreme Court also affirmed…

Wisconsin Reports Just 0.03% Of Vaccinated People Get Virus

MADISON, Wis. – Wisconsin health officials say that only 0.03% of people who have been fully vaccinated for the coronavirus have tested positive for COVID-19. The Wisconsin State Journal reports Wednesday that the number of so-called breakthrough cases was just 605 out of 1.8 million people who are fully vaccinated. The state’s number of breakthrough cases is higher than the…

Morning Update 4-28-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Wednesday, April 28, 2021

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Wednesday, April 28, 2021. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, morning update, News, weather

Chauvin Juror Says Guilty Verdicts Could Have Come Quicker

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — A juror who cast one of the unanimous votes to convict a white former Minneapolis police officer of killing George Floyd said deliberations were primarily spent trying to convince one person who was uncertain about part of the jury instructions. Brandon Mitchell is the first juror that deliberated in Derek Chauvin’s trial to talk publicly about his…

New Pet Grooming Service Open in Superior

Purr-fectly Superior Grooming opened in June of 2020 but has taken off as of late with more people opting for a more personal grooming style.

SUPERIOR, Wisc. – A new mobile grooming service is now open in Superior. Purr-fectly Superior Grooming opened in June of 2020 but has taken off as of late with more people opting for a more personal grooming style. Owner Amy Laessig says, along with bringing her unique services to your home she also helps educate the owners about pet maintenance…

Direct Flights to Arizona, Florida Coming to Duluth International Airport this Winter

According to airport management, it’s a growth in service that will hopefully revitalize Duluth as a travel hub in the region.

DULUTH, Minn.- This winter, travelers will be able to fly directly to the southwest and the southeast from the Duluth International Airport, with non-stop flights to Phoenix, Arizona and Fort Myers, Florida coming from the twin cities based airline Sun Country. “To have an airline partner that’s in growth mode and offer a new and exciting product that’s leisure-focused will…

Landline to Increase Rides from Duluth International to MSP to Five Times a Day

This is an upgrade, from their previous schedule of just two times daily.

DULUTH, Minn.- The Landline bus service has announced it’s expanding the number of trips between the Duluth International Airport and the Minneapolis- St. Paul Airport. Starting on May 15th Landline will offer five daily round trips between the two spots on their flagship 35-seat motor coach service with free Wi-Fi and on-board movies. This is an upgrade, from their previous…

Church Holds Drive-Up Food Pantry In Superior

Anybody was welcome to pick up a box of fresh produce grains and baked good.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- Faith United Methodist Church in Superior continued its 20 plus year food pantry tradition Tuesday – although a little different because of the pandemic. People could drive up, tell a volunteer how many people were in their family, and boxes of food would be loaded into their car. “We serve those who feel like they were in need…

Enbridge Line 3 Halfway Done, on Pause Until May

Since April, work is currently on an environmentally mandated "Spring Break" pause.

DULUTH, Minn.- Enbridge’s Line-3 Pipeline Replacement Project is 50% complete. During a virtual open house Tuesday, construction officials said 200 miles of the pipeline is welded, coded, in the ground and back-filled — leaving roughly 140 more miles left. Since April, work is currently on an environmentally mandated “Spring Break” pause. “We are paused and the reason for that pause…

Canal Park Businesses Team Up for Cleanup Project

DULUTH, Minn.-Businesses in Canal Park came together today to help clean up the area. Volunteers scattered about both Park Point Beach and Railroad Street to pick up trash as the summer tourism season nears. Organizers say this is a great way to give back. “It makes us all feel good,” said Amber Nichols, the general manager of Lake Superior Art…

Update: One Person Shot in Downtown Duluth Tuesday Morning

UPDATE: Authorities have provided additional information in connection to Tuesday morning’s downtown Duluth shooting incident. Police say they received reports of hearing multiple gunshots just before 8:00 a.m. and that a male had been shot. When officers arrived at the scene on the 200 block of East 3rd Street they did not locate a victim but found multiple casings as…

Walz to Announce Additional Easing Of Some COVID-19 Restrictions Within the Next Week

RICHFIELD, Minn. (FOX 9) – Gov. Tim Walz hinted Tuesday that he may be easing more of Minnesota’s COVID-19 restrictions soon as the state appears to be coming down from a spring surge in infections and hospitalizations. He told reporters to expect an announcement later this week or early next week. When it comes to dialing back restrictions, the state’s next move…

New Bagel Business Opens in Northland

Lift Bridge Bagels is currently taking orders online for a variety of flavors of bagels and the owner loves interacting with her customers.

SUPERIOR, Wisc.- After starting making her bagels a few years ago, owner Lexy Land’s bagel business began to take shape. “They are all made out of organic wheat, and then organic cane sugar goes in the dough as well as the yeast and the salt,” Lift Bridge Bagels Owner, Lexy Land says. This past winter season, Lift Bridge Bagels was…

Derek Chauvin’s Sentencing Pushed Back to June 25

MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) – Derek Chauvin, the former Minneapolis police officer found guilty of murder in George Floyd’s death, will now be sentenced on June 25. Online court records show Chauvin’s sentencing has been pushed back from June 16 to June 25. The change was made due to the availability of the parties, sources told FOX 9. Chauvin, 45, was convicted of second-degree murder, third-degree…

CDC Says Fully Vaccinated Americans Can Now Go Outside Without a Mask

NEW YORK (AP) — U.S. health officials say fully vaccinated Americans don’t need to wear masks outdoors anymore unless they are in a big crowd of strangers. And unvaccinated people can drop face coverings in some cases, too. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released the updated guidance Tuesday. Previously the CDC had been advising that people should wear…

Midday Update 4-27-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Tuesday, April 27, 2021

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Tuesday, April 27, 2021. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, midday update, News, weather

Sun Country Airlines Announces Flights to Fort Myers, Phoenix From Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. – On Tuesday Sun Country Airlines announced the addition of 18 new nonstop routes, including two nonstop routes from the Duluth International Airport. “With more and more people excited to resume traveling, we’re thrilled to be able to offer them the opportunity to visit these incredible vacation destinations this winter,” said Sun Country Airlines Chief Revenue Officer Grant…