News

Visit Duluth Launching Weekly Videos to Help Tourism Industry

The videos give information on the industry while also showcasing things like marketing campaigns, promotions, and content to not only other businesses in the industry but also the community as a whole.

DULUTH, Minn. – As the tourism industry struggles during the ongoing pandemic, Visit Duluth is launching new video updates each week in hopes of helping out the community. The videos give information on the industry while also showcasing things like marketing campaigns, promotions, and content to not only other businesses in the industry but also the community as a whole….

Local Hospital Capacity Decreases as COVID-19 Cases Surge in St. Louis County

The increase in cases is caused by county-wide community transmission that's been growing over the last two months.

DULUTH, Minn.– The Northland has also been hit with a surge in Coronavirus cases. In St. Louis County, cases keep going up and the increase in cases around the state is impacting local healthcare providers. As cases increase around the state, St. Louis County set another daily record with 320 new cases of COVID-19, 60 percent of those cases are…

Wisconsin Breaks Daily COVID-19 Case Record Again as Cases Continue to Rise

65 of the state's 72 counties are labeled 'critically high' with more than 1,000 cases per 10,000 residents.

MADISON, Wis.– Wisconsin broke its daily case record again. The state added 7,497 cases of COVID-19 on Thursday. The state has also set a new record for the number of hospitalized COVID-19 patients every day this month. It leaves only 8 percent of Wisconsin’s ICU beds available. Now, 65 of the state’s 72 counties are labeled ‘critically high’ with more…

Duluth Fire Department Changing Internal Protocols to Help Keep Employees Safe

The DFD has had 4 positive COVID tests among firefighters in the department since the pandemic began.

DULUTH, Minn – With at least 17 members of the Duluth Police Department currently quarantined for testing positive for COVID-19, the Duluth Fire Department has managed to avoid those numbers so far with only four positive COVID cases since the pandemic began. Chief Shawn Krizaj tells Fox 21 operations have changed internally to help limit potential exposure among firefighting shifts…

Douglas County Officials Pleading for Citizens to Stay Home

The message from Douglas County Health and Human Services continues to be the same since the start of the pandemic: stay home, avoid gatherings, and wear a mask.

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Douglas County is in the midst of dealing with a significant increase in positive cases compared to just two weeks ago. The message from Douglas County Health and Human Services continues to be the same since the start of the pandemic: stay home, avoid gatherings, and wear a mask. Though everyone knows what they need to do…

Gov. Walz Extends COVID-19 Peacetime Emergency

(John Autey/Pioneer Press via AP,Pool) ST.PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota Governor Tim Walz announced on Thursday that he has extended the COVID-19 peacetime emergency due to the record number of cases, hospitalizations, and deaths due to the virus. “COVID-19 is taking a deadly toll on our communities and putting a strain on our health care system,” said Governor Walz. “As cases…

Minnesota DNR, MPCA Approve Permits for Enbridge Line 3 Replacement Project

ST. PAUL, Minn. – On Thursday, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency approved necessary permits for Enbridge’s Line 3 Replacement Project. In a recent statement, Enbridge said the decision from the MPCA and Minnesota DNR, “clears the way for a determination from the US Army Corps of Engineers regarding federal permits.” The eight approved…

Wisconsin Sets COVID Record, Evers Prepares Bills for Next Week

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Wisconsin is reporting another day of jaw-dropping COVID-19 infection numbers. The state Department of Health Services reported a record 7,497 new confirmed cases on Thursday, obliterating the old record of 7,065 set on Saturday. The department says the disease was a factor in another 58 deaths, bringing the death toll to 2,515. Gov. Tony Evers said…

Mail Order at-Home COVID-19 Tests Now Available to All Minnesotans

(FOX 9) – Minnesotans can now get tested for COVID-19 without ever leaving their home, according to state health officials. The Minnesota Department of Health announced Thursday it has expanded its pilot program for its at-home COVID-19 test statewide. Anyone in Minnesota can now order a saliva test to be delivered to their home. The test is then sent to the new saliva testing…

Minnesota Virus Cases Climb Above 7,000 for First Time

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The Minnesota Department of Health on Thursday reported 7,228 new cases of the coronavirus, shattering the single-day record set just last week by more than 1,000 cases as the virus continues its unrelenting spread throughout the state. Minnesota health officials reported 39 deaths on Thursday, second only to the 56 deaths reported the day before. The state…

Proctor Public Schools to Remain in Distance Learning Through End of Year

PROCTOR, Minn. – On Thursday, Proctor Public Schools announced they will be in distance learning until at least January 4. Superintendent John Engelking said that due to a significant increase in COVID-19 cases in the area they have made the decision to remain in the distance learning model throughout the end of the year. Engelking noted that they would look…

Itasca County Doctor: Hospitals At Capacity, Residents Urged to Follow Guidelines

Itasca County Public Health Officials Ask Residents to Wear Masks, Social Distance, Avoid Gatherings

GRAND RAPIDS, Minn. – Health officials in Itasca County are pleading with residents to do their part to help limit the spread of COVID-19. This plea comes as 241 new COVID-19 cases have been reported in the county within the past seven days. “Unfortunately, we know that not everyone is helping us minimize the spread, and keeping out healthcare resources…

Midday Update 11-12-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Thursday, Nov. 12, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Thursday, Nov. 12, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, midday update, News

Updated COVID-19 Numbers: Thursday, November 12

Minnesota Health Officials Report 7,728 new COVID-19 Thursday Marking the Highest Ever Recorded in the State

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota health officials reported 7,728 new cases of COVID-19 in Minnesota Thursday morning bringing the total confirmed COVID cases to 201,795 in the state. Health officials also reported 39 news deaths bringing the death total to 2,793 in Minnesota. According to the Minnesota Department of Health website, 3,253,880 tests have been completed to date. There are…

Louisiana Native Turned Gumbo Boi Now Serving Cajun Cuisine in the Northland

Cooking Connection: Crawfish Étouffée from Gumbo Boi

DULUTH, Minn. – Northlanders with a craving for Cajun cuisine now have a weekly option in Duluth. Robert Lee, also known as Gumbo Boi, is a Louisiana native turned Duluthian, and is now cooking up his favorite recipes for all to enjoy. In this week’s Cooking Connection, Lee prepares his homemade crawfish étouffée. The flavors of the dish combine to…

Morning Update 11-12-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Thursday, Nov. 12, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Thursday, Nov. 12, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, morning update, News

Anoka-Hennepin Elementary Schools to Close Due to COVID-19

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Minnesota’s largest school district is planning to close its elementary schools as a growing number of coronavirus cases has left it short on staff and bus drivers. The Anoka-Hennepin district, which serves 13 communities, will be transitioning to distance learning. Elementary students have been attending in-person classes two days a week since Sept. 15. Anoka-Hennepin’s middle and…

Wonder Wednesdays Start at Great Lakes Aquarium

The Great Lakes Aquarium is having a special discount for families during this winter season.

DULUTH, Minn. – The Great Lakes Aquarium is having a special discount for families during this winter season. It’s called Wonder Wednesdays and visitors from age 3 to adult get admission for 6 dollars down from 15 bucks. Children under three are always free. Management at the aquarium hopes that this will be a time where families don’t have to…

UMD ROTC Cadets Watch American Flag to Honor Veterans

DULUTH, Minn. – UMD’s ROTC is currently on watch at the school’s American flag starting at midnight Wednesday and continuing on until midnight Thursday in honor of Veterans Day. Cadets say it gives them a time to reflect on how to become a better leader for their program, thinking about the sacrifices made by veterans in the past. “Being able…

Silver Bay Veterans Home Combating COVID Outbreak

The Silver Bay Veterans Home currently has 22 residents and staff COVID-19 positive. The facility has 83 residents in total.

SILVER BAY, Minn. – While veterans across America are being celebrated for their service on Veterans Day, others are now fighting a battle on the homefront, COVID-19. The Silver Bay Veterans Home currently has 22 residents and staff COVID-19 positive. The facility has 83 residents in total. “We really continue to honor and celebrate those that we are caring for,”…

Rogue Wave May Have Led to Edmund Fitzgerald’s Demise

Monday marked the anniversary of the sinking and people gathered virtually at Split Rock Lighthouse to reflect and honor the lives lost.

DULUTH, Minn. – 45 years ago this week, the Edmund Fitzgerald left the Duluth-Superior Port before sinking to the bottom of Lake Superior killing all 29 crew members on board. Monday marked the anniversary of the sinking and people gathered virtually at Split Rock Lighthouse to reflect and honor the lives lost. The Fitzgerald sank in the far southeast corner…

TSA, Duluth Airport Give Holiday Travel Guidance as Cases Increase

DULUTH, Minn.– Cases in Minnesota continue to rise. With thanksgiving just around the corner, this year’s travel plans might look a bit different. The Duluth International Airport has been putting up health guidelines since March to keep people safe during the pandemic. As thanksgiving gets closer the TSA is making sure those who are going to travel will do it…

Fresh Snow Helps Spirit Mountain Prep for Season Opener

Staff at Spirit Mountain say crews are on stand-by, along with over 20 snow guns around the hill. They will work on each run one at a time, to get a 3-4 foot base of snow.

DULUTH, Minn.– All of the snow that fell Tuesday is helping Spirit Mountain get one step closer to opening up for the season. Staff at Spirit Mountain say crews are on stand-by, along with over 20 snow guns around the hill. They will work on each run one at a time, to get a 3-4 foot base of snow. Management…

Governor Walz Imposes New Restrictions For Weddings

Glensheen mansion typically hosts nearly 50 weddings in a normal season.

DULUTH, Minn. – Minnesota Governor Tim Walz is turning back the dial to help slow the pace of rising covid-19 cases in the state. These new restrictions will put additional limitations on bars and restaurants starting Friday. Both indoor and outdoor private social gatherings will also be capped at ten people at that point. The number of guests allowed at…

Local Organization Makes Holiday Wish List for Guests

As the holidays are fast approaching, many local organizations have started programs with the aim of giving back to the community.

DULUTH, Minn. – As the holidays are fast approaching, many local organizations have started programs with the aim of giving back to the community. Safe Haven in Duluth, which serves as a shelter for abuse victims, has a wish list to provide gifts and things for their guests. This year, Safe Haven is looking for gift cards from major retailers…

Bong Center Hosts Veterans Day Event

The Veterans Day ceremony looked a little bit different this year in Superior due to the pandemic, but that didn’t stop Northlanders from honoring those who have served.

SUPERIOR, Wis. – The Veterans Day ceremony looked a little bit different this year in Superior due to the pandemic, but that didn’t stop Northlanders from honoring those who have served. Handfuls of vets gathered at the flagpole at the Bong Center as they were asked to wear masks and practice social distancing for a remembrance ceremony, commemorating veterans and…

Glensheen Mansion Unveils Christmas Decorations

The historic estate will be opened for self-guided Christmas tours this Friday.

DULUTH, Minn. – It’s beginning to look a lot light Christmas at Glensheen Mansion. The historic estate will be opened for self-guided Christmas tours this Friday. Staff have spent the past few weeks decorating the mansion with dozens of trees and have also hidden 25 elves inside the home which has become a family favorite. “Kids can find the elves…

Duluthians Dig Out After Overnight Snowfall

Under a Duluth city ordinance, property owners with a public sidewalk are required to remove snow from that sidewalk within 24 hours after a snow fall.

DULUTH, Minn. – Several inches of snow fell in Duluth overnight and some residents spent the morning digging out. Those without snow blowers spent a little extra time shoveling  and one Lakeside resident was even helping clear off a neighbor’s sidewalk. “We try to help out our neighbors who might not have an easy of a time shoveling their walkways….

Glidden Man Charged With Forgery, Theft From VFW and American Legion Posts

GLIDDEN, Wis. – According to the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office, charges have been filed against a 55-year-old Glidden man for multiple counts of forgery and theft from the Veterans of Foreign Wars and American Legion posts in Glidden. Authorities say Michael Schwilk was arrested on October 14 for seven counts of felony theft, 10 counts of felony forgery, and four…

Mayo Says Beds Full in Northwest Region of Wisconsin

EAU CLAIRE, Wis. (AP) — Mayo Clinic Health System says its hospitals in the northwest region of Wisconsin are full to capacity. System officials say 100% of their beds are full at hospitals in the region, which encompasses Barron, Bloomer, Eau Claire, Osseo, and Menomonie. Eighty-three patients have COVID-19, WQOW-TV reported. “The public urgently needs to treat COVID-19 as the health…

Man Injured in Superior Stabbing Incident

SUPERIOR, Wis. – One man is recovering at a local hospital following an altercation between two men that resulted in one of the men being stabbed multiple times, according to police. Officers were called to a private residence around 10 p.m. Tuesday on the 1900 block of Broadway. When police arrived at the scene they found a man with multiple…

Midday Update 11-11-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, midday update, News

Updated COVID-19 Numbers: Wednesday, November 11

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota health officials reported 194,570 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state Wednesday morning and 56 new deaths bringing the death total to 2,754 in Minnesota. According to the Minnesota Department of Health website, 3,179,872 tests have been completed to date. There are 157,164 patients who no longer require isolation. So far, 12,151 patients have required hospitalization…

Nominations for ‘Best Christmas Ever’ Nearing Final Deadline

Nominations For the 2020 'Best Christmas Ever' Will Close Sunday, Nov. 15

DULUTH, Minn. – Nominations for this year’s Best Christmas Ever are coming to a close. Northlanders have until Sunday, Nov. 15 to nominate a family in need this holiday season. Don Liimatainen, founder of Best Christmas Ever, says the organization plans to surpass its goal of helping more than 150 families this year. Each year from Sept. 1 – Nov….

Walz Says Minnesota Will Report a Record 56 COVID-19 Deaths

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Minnesota health officials will report a record of 56 new deaths from COVID-19 when they release updated figures Wednesday, Gov. Tim Walz said. Walz told Minnesota Public Radio the daily report will also show positivity rates above 20%, an important measure of how fast the disease is spreading. The 7-day rolling average of the positivity rate in Minnesota has…

Lake County Sheriff’s Department Welcomes K9 Arrow

K9 Arrow Works With His Handler, Lake County Sheriff's Deputy Jack Dietz

TWO HARBORS, Minn. – After nearly 10 years of taking the hard road in many cases, the road is now a lot smoother looking ahead for the Lake County Sheriff’s Department. The law enforcement team recently welcomed a new four-legged enforcer, K9 Arrow. “He’s kind of — the best way to describe it is a very active kid,” said Deputy…

Morning Update 11-11-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Ken Slama for a local look at news and weather making headlines Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Ken Slama, Local News, morning update, News

Us Hits Record COVID-19 Hospitalizations Amid Virus Surge

NEW YORK (AP) — The U.S. has hit a record number of coronavirus hospitalizations and surpassed 1 million new confirmed cases in just the first 10 days of November. Newly confirmed infections in the U.S. were running at all-time highs of well over 100,000 per day, pushing the total to more than 10 million and eclipsing 1 million since Halloween….

Tough Road Ahead After Gov. Walz’s New Restrictions, Local Bars Say

The restrictions limit bars and restaurants to below 50% capacity with no more than 150 people total, with mandatory closure 10p-4a.

DULUTH, Minn.- Minnesota Governor Tim Walz turned the dial back Tuesday, with new COVID-19 restrictions on social gatherings and bars and restaurants in particular. Some local bar owners and staff throughout Duluth spoke out. Gov. Walz says these rules are because 71% of COVID cases from June to November were spread through private social gatherings, weddings, funerals, and bars. In…

Superior Police Work to Mitigate COVID-19 Exposure Within Department

To date, six officers have tested positive since March and only one officer is in quarantine awaiting test results.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- The Superior Police Department is also dealing with COVID-19 exposures within its department of 65 officers and staff. To date, six officers have tested positive since March and only one officer is in quarantine awaiting test results. Assistant Chief John Kiel told FOX 21 most officers have a take-home vehicle and are encouraged to spend as little time…

National Weather Service, Dept. of Public Safety Promote Winter Hazard Awareness Week

The two organizations are advertising a few lists on their website that can be helpful to prepare for winter before it happens.

DULUTH, Minn. – The National Weather Service and Minnesota Department of Public Safety are promoting Winter Hazard Awareness Week across Minnesota and Wisconsin. The two organizations are advertising a few lists on their website that can be helpful to prepare for winter before it happens. They have included a list of supplies for your vehicle and ways to check to…

Great Outdoors: November Golfing

Other area golf courses also reopened last week because of the high temperatures including Nemadji, and the back nine of Enger Golf course. 

PROCTOR, Minn. – Proctor reopened its nine-hole golf course last Tuesday with plans to remain open all week long thanks to some record breaking warm weather. That left avid golfers itching to get back out on the course for one more crack at the season. “The cold weather does not bother me. The latest I think I golfed was November…