News

Local Teen Organizes Food Giveaway at Superior YMCA

SUPERIOR, Wis.– In Superior, a teenager has gotten creative to get free food to people in need during pandemic. Veronica Acurero, a 7th grader from Superior Middle School partnered with food distributors and local organizations like the YMCA to package up dozens of bags of free food featuring a variety of items from different cultures. “Anyone who wants it can…

Watch Live: President Biden to Make First Primetime Address to Nation

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden is outlining his plan to make all adult Americans eligible for vaccination by May 1 and get the nation back “closer to normal” by the Fourth of July. Biden is addressing the nation Thursday evening, one year into the coronavirus pandemic. Previewing his speech, officials say he will announce that he is deploying an…

More Business for Pizza Shops Because of Snow Storm

With the snowstorm, one local pizza place says it’s been busier for deliveries as more people want to stay home.

DULUTH, Minn. – With the snowstorm, one local pizza place says it’s been busier for deliveries as more people want to stay home. Management at VIP Pizza says it’s not unusual as they usually see a higher call volume during bad weather. “People are pretty good about it,” said Mechelle Nelson, the manager at VIP Pizza. “So you know, they’re…

UMD Students Have Fun In Snow

Some UMD students had some fun today at the expense of the recent snowfall.

DULUTH, Minn. – Some UMD students had some fun today at the expense of the recent snowfall. After moving the snow on their driveway, two roommates snowboarded down it. Kamie is a student at UMD and said she and her roommates didn’t expect the weather to turn out like this. “We all didn’t think it would snow this much and…

Snow Blankets Northland, Northland Residents Cleans It Up

Some Duluth residents woke up to a surprise this morning with more than seven inches of snow falling. This all comes less than two weeks from spring.

DULUTH, Minn. – Some Duluth residents woke up to a surprise this morning with more than seven inches of snow falling. This all comes less than two weeks from spring. A winter storm hit the Northland last night going into this morning. Residents were stuck cleaning up the mess. Snow blanketed the Northland and people came out to clean it…

Duluth, St. Louis County to Receive Funding From Federal COVID Relief Bill

DULUTH, Minn. – The City of Duluth along with St. Louis County are set to receive nearly $114 million in funding from the Federal COVID Relief Bill. According to the Mayor’s office, the city will receive about $60 million as part of the American Rescue Plan. The $350 billion from the plan was allocated for government entities. Duluth Mayor Emily…

South African Virus Variant Found in Minnesota for 1st Time

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Minnesota health officials have confirmed the state’s first known case of a coronavirus variant that was originally identified in South Africa. The Minnesota Department of Health said Thursday the person is a Twin Cities-area resident in their 40s who became ill on Jan. 24 and was tested on Jan. 29. The person had no recent travel history…

Gov. Walz to Announce More COVID Rollbacks on Friday

(FOX 9) – Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz says he will announce a rollback of the state’s COVID-related restrictions on businesses and gatherings on Friday morning that will be “the biggest turn yet.” The announcement comes as Minnesota expanded vaccine eligibility to 1.8 million more people this week after surpassing its goal of getting 70% of seniors vaccinated. “I think you’ll start to see the…

Sidewalk Under the Aerial Lift Bridge Closed Due to Falling Snow and Ice

DULUTH, Minn. – The City of Duluth says the east sidewalk underneath the Aerial Lift Bridge is closed until further notice. Snow and ice from last night’s snowstorm packed the east-facing side of the bridge. Thursday’s warmer temperatures combined with the wind have loosened the ice and snow causing it to fall from the bridge onto the sidewalk. The city…

Wisconsin DHS Announces Next Groups Eligibile for COVID Vaccine

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Wisconsin is expanding coronavirus vaccine eligibility starting March 29 to anyone 16 or older with common pre-existing health conditions, including being overweight or pregnant, or having high blood pressure, asthma or cancer, officials announced Thursday. The state Department of Health Services released a long list of qualifying conditions to get vaccinated later this month, including cerebrovascular…

Midday Update 3-11-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Thursday, Mar. 11, 2021

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Thursday, Mar. 11, 2021. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, midday update, News, weather

Wisconsin to Greatly Broaden COVID-19 Vaccine Eligibility

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Wisconsin plans to greatly expand the number of people eligible for the coronavirus vaccine by about 2 million people, including those with certain pre-existing conditions, as positive cases decline and vaccine availability increases. Gov. Tony Evers and state health officials planned to announce the next eligibility tier on Thursday afternoon. Exactly which pre-existing conditions will qualify,…

MidCoast Catering Shares How to Make Universal Pastry Cream

Chef Jonathan Reznick Owns MidCoast Catering and The Rambler Food Truck

DULUTH, Minn. – In this week’s Cooking Connection, Chef Jonathan Reznick, owner of MidCoast Catering and The Rambler food truck, shares a delicious recipe pastry cream. MidCoast Catering is located 315 North Central Avenue in Duluth’s West End. Reznick and his team specialize in putting together creative menu options for any occasion or event. Reznick plans to have The Rambler…

Line 3 Replacement Project Nearing Major Milestones

DULUTH, Minn. – Enbridge Energy says the Line 3 Replacement Project is nearing a major milestone of having 50% of construction completed on the project and is on track for completion in late 2021. Beginning April 1 work on the Line 3 Replacement Project will pause for roughly 2 months due to seasonal restrictions. “Winter construction has gone very well,…

Looking Through the Lens of the Lighthouse Keeper

Split Rock Lighthouse Site Manager, Hayes Scriven, Has Passion for Capturing Nature's Beauty On The Job

TWO HARBORS, Minn. – They say a picture is worth a thousand words. The statement holds ever so true for one lucky photographer living along the North Shore of Lake Superior. “Photography and Split Rock go together like peanut butter and jelly, they’re just delicious together,” said Hayes Scriven, site manager at Split Rock Lighthouse. You could say the COVID-19…

Morning Update 3-11-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Thursday, Mar. 11, 2021

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Thursday, Mar. 11, 2021.   Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, News

COVID-Positive Duluth Musher Removed From Iditarod Race

ANCHORAGE, Alaska (AP) — A veteran Iditarod musher was removed from the race Wednesday after he tested positive for the coronavirus, organizers said. Gunnar Johnson, 52, of Duluth, Minnesota, was withdrawn from the event at the McGrath, Alaska, checkpoint, the organizers said in a news release. Iditarod Race Marshal Mark Nordman, working with epidemiologist Dr. Jodie Guest, made the decision…

Snow, Heavy Rain, Hail, Tornado Warnings in Minnesota

DULUTH, Minn. (AP) — Heavy snow and high winds in northeastern Minnesota left hundreds without power and caused hazardous travel conditions while the southeastern region of the state experienced rain, large hail and tornado warnings. The St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office said slippery conditions likely contributed to the death of a 57-year-old driver who was killed about 6 p.m. Wednesday…

Watch: Judge Reinstates 3rd-Degree Murder Charge in Chauvin Trial

MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) – The trial judge ruled the third-degree murder charge will be reinstated in the trial of Derek Chauvin, the former Minneapolis police officer who is charged with the death of George Floyd. Court proceedings started at 8 a.m. Thursday with a hearing on preliminary motions, before moving on to jury selection at 9 a.m. Five jurors have been seated…

School Closings, Delays for Thursday, Mar. 11, 2021

Closings and Delays Received by FOX 21 Local News as of Thursday, Mar. 11, 2021

Duluth Public Schools – Closed Hermantown Public School District – Closed Lake Superior School District – 2 hour delay Lakeview Christian Academy – Closed Proctor Public Schools – Closed South Shore Schools – 2 hour delay South Ridge School – 2 hour delay Stella Maris Academy – Closed on site, remote learning day Categories: Community, Education, School Closings Tags: Local…

Instagram Account Highlights Duluth Businesses

One local travel Instagram account is giving away a Duluth spring vacation.

DULUTH, Minn. – One local travel Instagram account is giving away a Duluth spring vacation. Expedition Kristen is highlighting several local businesses in its giveaway, including Bridgeman’s, Vikre Distillery, and Inn on Lake Superior. Kristen, the owner of the Instagram account, hosts giveaways like these and has previously focused on places like St. Cloud and Minneapolis. However, for this week,…

Snow Plows Not Done Yet for Season During Spring Storm

DULUTH, Minn.– While some may be getting ready for spring, snow plow drivers know better when it comes to Northland weather. The spring storm here in the northland means that the snowplows are out in full force. All MN-DOT truck stations in the area have been activated for the winter storm. Those with MN-DOT say in this area they always…

Police: 2 Students Threatened To ‘Shoot Up’ Northwestern Middle School

MAPLE, Wis. – Two students are facing serious consequences after authorities say they threatened to “shoot up” Northwestern Middle School. The 12-year-old boys are in the custody of the Douglas County Juvenile Intake. The Sheriff’s Office says authorities were made aware of the threats Tuesday night. The two juveniles were overheard by other students making detailed, specific plans to not…

Alder Begins Ice Breaking in Duluth Harbor

It's all to prepare Duluth and the surrounding waters for the upcoming shipping season.

DULUTH, Minn. – The U.S Coast Guard began ice-breaking this morning in the Duluth Harbor. With the Sault-Ste. Marie Locks set to open March 25th, the Alder is gearing up to break more ice with roughly 31% more ice coverage this year than last year. It’s all to prepare Duluth and the surrounding waters for the upcoming shipping season. “The…

Grandma’s Kicking off Summer Racing Season with Saint Fennessy 4K

Right now, more than 500 people are already signed up with around 100 of them electing to run the race virtually.

HERMANTOWN, Minn. – Grandma’s is officially kicking off the summer racing season with the Saint Fennessy 4K this Saturday at the Hermantown High School. Right now, more than 500 people are already signed up with around 100 of them electing to run the race virtually. Although the St. Patrick’s Day-themed event will not have the same after party as years…

Co-Presidents, CEOs named at St. Luke’s

We are learning that St. Luke’s has named its new co-presidents and CEOs.

DULUTH, Minn. – We are learning that St. Luke’s has named its new co-presidents and CEOs. Eric Lohn and Nick Van Deelen have been named to fill the positions. Both began serving their roles on an interim basis in early December 2020. Lohn says that while things were difficult during the past year because of the pandemic, there is much…

Adverse Reactions to Vaccine Are Rare, Northland Health Officials Encourage People to Get the Vaccine

As more people are getting vaccinated, there have been a few rare cases where people have reported some adverse side effects. Northland health experts caution that side effects from the COVID vaccine are rare and they should not serve as a deterrent for getting the shot.

NORTHLAND – As more people are getting vaccinated, there have been a few rare cases where people have reported some adverse side effects. Northland health experts caution that side effects from the COVID vaccine are rare and they should not serve as a deterrent for getting the shot. In one situation, a patient was recommended not to take the second…

Restaurant Workers Can Now Get Vaccine

With Governor Walz’s recent announcement about expanding the eligible groups able to get the vaccine, foodservice workers are able to sign up.

DULUTH, Minn. – With Governor Walz’s recent announcement about expanding the eligible groups able to get the vaccine, foodservice workers are able to sign up. The owners of the Boat Club in Duluth say they are happy about the change as it’s a big step towards normalcy. “Our employees are really excited to be able to get in there and…

Ruling Could Put 3rd-Degree Murder Charge in Play for Ex-Cop

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The Minnesota Supreme Court has declined to hear the appeal of a former Minneapolis police officer who is trying to block a third-degree murder charge from being reinstated in George Floyd’s death. At issue is whether the conviction of another former police officer in an unrelated case established a precedent for prosecutors to restore a third-degree murder…

Ramsey Stops Enforcing Coronavirus Mask Mandate

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — City leaders in Ramsey have voted to stop enforcing Gov. Tim Walz’s coronavirus mask mandate with proponents arguing it infringes on an individual’s constitutional rights. It was not immediately clear what liability the city might face as a result of the 4-3 City Council vote Tuesday night which was discouraged by city attorney Joe Langel. He warned…

Congress OKs $1.9T Virus Relief Bill in Win for Biden, Dems

WASHINGTON (AP) – Congress has sent President Joe Biden the landmark $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief bill. The House approved the bill Wednesday over solid Republican opposition in a vote that gives the new president and Democrats a victory just seven weeks after he took office. The 628-page measure represents Democrats’ effort to bridle the catastrophic pandemic and revive the enfeebled…

St. Luke’s Board of Directors Names New Co-Presidents, CEO’s

DULUTH, Minn. – St. Luke’s Board of Directors has named the hospital’s new President and CEO. On Wednesday, St. Luke’s announced that the board of directors has selected Chief Financial Officer Eric Lohn and St. Luke’s Chief Medical Officer Nick Van Deelen, MD, to serve as Co-Presidents/CEOs of the health care system. “Beyond proving this dual leadership model is excellent…

Midday Update 3-10-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Wednesday, Mar. 10, 2021

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Wednesday, Mar. 10, 2021. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, midday update, News

Attorneys Sift Strong Opinions, Anxiety Among Chauvin Jurors

(Court TV, via AP, Pool) MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Jury selection opens its second day Wednesday in the trial of a former Minneapolis police officer charged in George Floyd’s death last May. Derek Chauvin faces second-degree murder and manslaughter charges. Several potential jurors were dismissed Tuesday, including some who said they wouldn’t be able to set aside their strong views about…

Animal Allies Humane Society Hosting Two Free Microchip Clinics in March

The Clinics Are Taking Place Monday, Mar. 15, and Wednesday, Mar. 17

DULUTH, Minn. – Animal Allies wants all Northland pet owners to be aware of two upcoming free microchip clinics. They’re happening Monday, Mar. 15, and Wednesday, Mar. 17 at the shelter location along Airport Road in Duluth. The microchips will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis. “We have enough supply where it will be completely free for I believe…

Wisconsin Protest Shootings Trial Delayed at Least 7 Months

(Antioch Police Department via AP) MADISON, Wis. (AP) — The trial for an 18-year-old from Illinois accused of killing two people and wounding a third during a protest against police brutality in Wisconsin has been pushed back by seven months and could be delayed even longer. Kyle Rittenhouse’s trial was scheduled to begin March 29, but both sides told a…

Animal Allies: Gus Gets Adopted, Precious Patiently Waits to Find Forever Home

The Two Pups Received the Funds for Life-Saving Heart Surgery Thanks to Generous Donors in the Northland

DULUTH, Minn. – Animal Allies Humane Society in Duluth is celebrating quite the success story months in the making. It was back in January when the shelter made the call for the community to help them save two precious pups. Now both have brighter days ahead thanks to a lot of love and compassion. “She will jump to get your…

Morning Update 3-10-21

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Wednesday, Mar. 10, 2021

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Wednesday, Mar. 10, 2021. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, morning update, News

House Set to Vote on Virus Relief, Biden on Cusp of Triumph

WASHINGTON (AP) — Congress is poised to approve a landmark $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief bill. That puts President Joe Biden on the cusp of a triumph that advances Democratic priorities yet also showcases the unity his party will need for future victories. House passage seems certain, probably coming Wednesday. The bill aims to fulfill Democrats’ campaign promises to beat the…

Colon Cancer Survivor Hopes Lighting Enger Tower Blue Encourages Early Screenings

Anna Dahlgren was screened earlier than the recommended age, catching the disease in her early 30s.

DULUTH, Minn.-Enger Tower in Duluth was lit up blue Tuesday in honor of Colon Cancer Awareness Month. It’s an initiative led by the city, and Colorectal Cancer survivor Anna Dahlgren. Dahlgren was screened earlier than the recommended age, catching the disease in her early 30s. Doctors say if she had waited until the typical screening age of 45 — it…

Tree Clearing for Bats, Soil Processing Last Steps Before Mission Creek Restoration Work in August

Crews start tree clearing Wednesday, and expect soil processing to finish by the end of July.

DULUTH, Minn.- Reconstruction work is finally set to begin this summer on the Mission Creek burial site in Duluth’s Fond Du Lac neighborhood, three years after MnDOT crews accidentally tore it up working to replace the Highway 23 Bridge there. Before they can get started, they have to finish some prep work which includes a plan to keep the area’s…

Hunters Park Residents Enjoying Final Days of ‘Snowhenge’ Fort

"By the end of the week I suspect it will be pretty much gone," Boucher says. 

DULUTH, Minn. – Spring is beginning to take shape. “Unless we get a lot of snow I don’t anticipate rebuilding it again this year,” Hunters Park Resident, Norman Boucher says. This spells bad news for the hunters park neighborhood creation “Snowhenge.” “By the end of the week I suspect it will be pretty much gone,” Boucher says. During a winter…

A Criminology Expert Weighs In On Chauvin Trial Jury Selection

It's expected to take several weeks to decide a final jury as the process includes checking backgrounds.

DULUTH, Minn. – As the proceedings continue in the George Floyd case, we caught up with a local jury selection expert who helped explain more about the process. UMD Adjunct Criminology Professor Fred Friedman says it’s all about finding out what biases people have, which are determined by attorneys asking a variety of questions. The hope is to have an…

WITC- Superior Hosts Drive-Thru Recruiting Event

Potential students who stopped by the drive-thru event also received a free application voucher to help them start their educational path at WITC.

SUPERIOR, Wis. – WITC hosted a drive-thru event on Tuesday making it possible for potential students to learn more about continuing their educational journey while also keeping everyone safe. This is the first on-campus recruiting event WITC has held in the last year due to the Coronavirus pandemic. People interested in attending WITC pulled up in their cars to the…