News

Wisconsin Planned Parenthood pauses abortions amid federal Medicaid funding cut

  MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin will stop scheduling patients for abortions starting next week as it works to find a way to provide the service in the face of Medicaid funding cuts in President Donald Trump’s tax and spending bill, the nonprofit said Thursday. Abortion funding across the U.S. has been under siege, particularly Planned Parenthood…

Search for missing man underway in Cook County

COOK COUNTY, Minn. — A search is underway for a missing man in Cook County. Authorities say Wayne Stortch, a 74-year-old man from New Richmond, has been missing since September 18. The Cook County Sheriff’s Office discovered Stortch’s vehicle parked on the side of the Gunflint Trail at the Pine Mountain Lake trailhead access on September 24. Officials believe he…

Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs returns to court a week before he faces sentencing

Sean “Diddy” Combs has returned to court a week before the Grammy-winning hip-hop producer faces sentencing for his July conviction on two prostitution-related charges. He waved to supporters and touched his heart before sitting down in Manhattan federal court on Thursday. Judge Arun Subramanian listened to arguments from lawyers on points of law that might help him decide how long the Bad Boy Records founder must spend behind bars. The 55-year-old Combs will have been jailed for nearly 13 months when he is sentenced on Oct. 3. His lawyers, noting that he was acquitted of the most series charges he faced, say he should go free now. Prosecutors say he should spend years more locked up.

Duluth Man in Custody After Late-Night Shooting

DULUTH, Minn. — A Duluth man is in custody following a late-night shooting incident that occurred early Thursday morning. According to a press release from the Duluth Police Department, officers responded to reports of gunfire just before midnight on Wednesday, September 24, in the 500 block of North 57th Avenue West. Authorities say a 36-year-old man arrived at the location…

Essentia reopening Hermantown urgent care for afternoons

HERMANTOWN, Min. – Essentia Health reopening its urgent care at the Essentia Health-Hermantown Clinic. It is slated to reopen Monday, September 29, 2025. It will be open in the afternoons from 3:00pm to 7:00pm Mondays through Fridays. Essentia’s urgent care locations provide treatment for illnesses and injuries that are not life-threatening but may need X-rays and/or lab tests requiring a…

Scientists find marine life thriving on World War II explosives in the Baltic Sea

An undersea submersible has spotted crabs, worms and fish thriving on the surfaces of World War II explosives thought to be toxic to marine life. Scientists found more creatures living on top of warheads than in the surrounding seabed at a former weapons dump site in the Baltic Sea. Researchers filmed networks of anemones, starfish and other underwater life in the Bay of Lübeck off the coast of Germany. The study was published Thursday in the journal Communications Earth and Environment. It’s the latest example of wildlife flourishing in polluted sites. Scientists hope to calculate how much contamination was absorbed by sea life.

What to know about the opposition around renaming new Pell grants after Trump

A proposal to name a new provision in the federal Pell Grant program after President Donald Trump has sparked controversy. The name change is part of a House appropriations bill for the upcoming fiscal year. Rhode Island’s congressional delegation says renaming the new grant would erase the legacy of U.S. Sen. Claiborne Pell, who was instrumental in creating the program in 1973. Pell Grants provide financial aid to students with significant financial need. A new grant called the Workforce Pell Grant was introduced under a tax and spending cuts package Trump signed into law earlier this year.

Coffee Conversation: Boat Club Productions Presents “Tick, Tick… Boom!”

DULUTH, Minn. — Helena Goei and Jace LeGarde from Boat Club Productions joined Fox 21 live to talk about their latest musical showcase, Tick, Tick… Boom! Running from September 26 to October 5, 2025, at the Spirit of the North Theatre (3rd Floor, Fitger’s Complex), the production tells the powerful, semi-autobiographical story of Jonathan Larson — the Pulitzer and Tony Award-winning…

Fall Fashion Finds at Apricot Lane Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. — Fall is officially here, which means it’s time to trade those summer staples for cozy layers and rich autumn colors. Fox 21 stopped by Apricot Lane Duluth to chat with store owner Wendy Myers and put together two must-have outfits for the season. Categories: Minnesota, News, News – Latest News

US economy expanded at a surprising 3.8% pace in significant upgrade of second quarter growth

The U.S. economy expanded at a surprising 3.8% from April through June in a dramatic upgrade of the government’s previous estimate of second-quarter growth. The Commerce Department said Thursday that U.S. gross domestic product — the nation’s output of goods and services — rebounded in the spring from a 0.6% first-quarter drop caused by fallout from President Donald Trump’s trade wars. The department had previously estimated second-quarter growth at 3.3%. The first-quarter GDP drop, the first retreat of the U.S. economy in three years, was mainly caused by a surge in imports as businesses hurried to bring in foreign goods before Trump could impose sweeping taxes on them.

Iran has likely carried out an undeclared missile test, satellite photos analyzed by the AP show

Iran has likely carried out an undeclared missile test at its Imam Khomeini Spaceport. That’s according to satellite photos analyzed by The Associated Press. Iran has not formally acknowledged the test last week at a circular pad that has hosted other major launches by the country’s civilian space program. A single lawmaker in Iran’s parliament, however, claimed without offering evidence that Tehran tested a possible intercontinental ballistic missile. The test and the claim raise concerns that Iran may be trying to expanding the reach of its missiles as tensions remain high ahead of United Nations sanctions, which are likely to be reimposed this weekend over Tehran’s nuclear program.

Texas man facing execution for fatally beating 13-month-old girl during ‘exorcism’

A Texas man is facing execution for killing his girlfriend’s 13-month-old daughter in what the couple had said was part of an “exorcism” to expel a demon from the child’s body. Blaine Milam was set to receive a lethal injection Thursday evening at the state penitentiary in Huntsville. He was condemned for the December 2008 hammer beating of Amora Carson at his East Texas trailer. Prosecutors said Milam savagely beat, bit and strangled the girl over 30 hours. Milam has claimed innocence, blaming the killing on the girl’s mother. Milam’s attorneys have asked the U.S. Supreme Court to stop his execution, arguing his conviction was based in part on now discredited bite mark evidence.

Streaming is overtaking theaters for movie watchers, an AP-NORC poll finds

A new poll finds Americans are more likely to watch recently released movies from the comfort of their own homes instead of heading out to a theater. The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research poll shows about three-quarters of U.S. adults say they watched a new movie on streaming instead of in the theater at least once in the past year, while about two-thirds say they’ve watched a movie in a theater. The results suggest American moviegoers are more likely to stream a film than see it in the theaters, a shifting tide that was accelerated during the coronavirus pandemic and its aftermath. Convenience and cost are both factors.

At least 17 killed in Gaza Strip as leaders ramp up pressure for a ceasefire

At least 17 people have been killed in Israeli attacks in the Gaza Strip, according to local health officials, as international pressure for a ceasefire continued to grow. On the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, French President Emmanuel Macron told France 24 his country had recognized a Palestinian state on the conviction it “is the only way to isolate Hamas.” Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu lashed out at the idea early Thursday before heading to New York himself, saying he would denounce those leaders who had recognized a Palestinian state.

The issue of drugs doesn’t usually get showcased at the UN General Assembly. This year is different

Every year, tons of heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine and other drugs flow around the world. It’s an underground river that crisscrosses borders and continents and spills over into violence, addiction and suffering. Yet when nations’ leaders give the U.N. their annual take on big issues, drugs don’t usually get much of the spotlight. But this was no usual year. First, U.S. President Donald Trump touted his aggressive approach to drug enforcement. Hours later, his Colombian counterpart fired back that Trump should face criminal charges for allowing an attack on unarmed “young people who were simply trying to escape poverty.”

Former French President Sarkozy found guilty on key charge, acquitted of others in Libya case

A Paris court has found former French President Nicolas Sarkozy guilty on one charge but acquitted him on others in his trial for the alleged illegal financing of his 2007 presidential campaign with money from Libya. The court is still detailing its ruling and hasn’t immediately sentenced Sarkozy. He can appeal the guilty verdict, which would suspend any sentence pending the appeal. Sarkozy, who was elected in 2007, denied all wrongdoing during a three-month trial. Prosecutors have argued for a seven-year prison sentence. Sarkozy remains an influential figure in right-wing politics in France.

Trump is hosting Turkey’s Erdogan at the White House as the US considers lifting ban on F-35 sales

President Donald Trump plans to meet with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan at the White House on Thursday. Trump has hinted that the U.S. might soon lift its hold on advanced fighter jet sales to Turkey. During Trump’s first term, the U.S. removed Turkey from the F-35 program because of concerns over Turkey’s use of Russia’s S-400 missile defense system. Trump recently suggested a resolution might be near, mentioning ongoing trade and military deals with Turkey. Despite tensions over Turkey’s human rights record and ties with Russia, Trump sees Erdogan as a crucial partner, especially in efforts to resolve conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza.

Guardians defy odds with historic comeback for AL Central lead

Steven Kwan wasn’t focused on standings in early July when the Cleveland Guardians were struggling. But on Wednesday night, Cleveland made history. They moved into first place with a 5-1 win over Detroit. This marks the biggest comeback in baseball history, overcoming a 15-and-a-half-game deficit. Cleveland now leads Detroit by one game with four games left. The Guardians have been on fire in September, boasting an 18-5 record. Their pitching has been stellar, allowing two or fewer runs in 19 consecutive games. Manager Stephen Vogt praised the team’s resilience but emphasized there’s more work to do.

White House budget office tells agencies to draft mass firing plans ahead of potential shutdown

The White House is telling agencies to prepare large-scale firings of federal workers if the government shuts down next week. In a memo released Wednesday night, the Office of Management and Budget said agencies should consider a reduction in force for federal programs whose funding would lapse next week, is not otherwise funded and is “not consistent with the President’s priorities.” That would be a much more aggressive step than in previous shutdowns. A reduction in force would not only lay off employees but eliminate the position. That adds potential pressure on Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, who have kept nearly all of their ranks united against a clean funding bill pushed by Republicans.

Superior Residents Discuss Impacts of State Budget on School Funding

SUPERIOR, Wiss. – Representative Angela Stroud holds a town hall meeting at the Superior Public Library regarding the Wisconsin state budget on school funding. Under the state’s new budget, the Superior School District is projecting a loss of $1.8 million in state general aid. This will increase local property taxes to help offset the decrease in district funding. Stroud spoke…

S.S Meteor Hosts Evening Remembering “The Mighty Fitz”

SUPERIOR, Wis. — Superior locals were invited to the S.S Meteor in order to honor the S.S Edmund Fitzgerald. The event was part of Superior Historic Properties’ “History Talks” series, with this evening’s showcase involving the history of the Fitzgerald. While this specific evening was all about the 50 years since the “The Mighty Fitz” sank, the series itself covers…

Once 15 1/2 games back, the Guardians beat the Tigers 5-1 to take a 1-game lead in the AL Central

The Cleveland Guardians have made history by overcoming a 15 1/2-game deficit to take the lead in division play. They achieved this with a 5-1 victory over the Detroit Tigers on Wednesday night. George Valera hit a two-run homer in the third inning, and José Ramírez added a two-run double in the seventh. Tanner Bibee won his third straight start, allowing just one run in six innings. The Guardians’ starters have allowed two or fewer runs in 19 consecutive games. Detroit has lost eight straight games and is out of first place for the first time since April.

Xcel Energy will pay $640M to settle claims from Denver-area wildfire that burned 1,000 structures

Minneapolis-based Xcel Energy said Wednesday it expects to pay about $640 million to settle lawsuits alleging it was responsible for starting Colorado’s most destructive wildfire that killed two people and destroyed nearly 1,000 homes in 2021. The announcement came right before jury selection was set to begin in a trial combining lawsuits brought by homeowners and insurers over the fire in the heavily populated suburbs between Denver and Boulder. Court documents confirmed a settlement has been reached and the trial canceled. Xcel has maintained that its equipment did not cause or contribute to the fire. It said it does not admit any fault under the settlement.

Stabbing at a Sunday wedding

Nathan John Polzin ANGORA TOWNSHIP, Min. – A man is accused of getting into a fight at a wedding and stabbing an attendee. Court documents allege Nathan John Polzin got into a disagreement at wedding in Angora Township the evening of September 21, 2025. A witness told deputies Polzin pulled a knife on the victim and began fighting. The witness…

Boreal Waters Community Foundation gives out more than $1,000,000

Boreal Waters Community Foundation Logo DULUTH, Min. – The Boreal Waters Community Foundation (formerly Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation) has awarded $1.34 million in Community Opportunity Fund grants to 32 nonprofits. That’s the largest grant cycle in its 40+ year history. “We are stewards of these resources, and the best way to honor our donors’ vision is to make sure their…

Minnesota Board of Pardons commutes sentence from 1998 Aitkin County murder

SAINT PAUL, Min. – Minnesota Board of Pardons voted to commute the sentence of Brian Pippitt, who spent over two decades in prison following a conviction of first-degree murder in 2001. The Board voted to commute Pippitt’s sentence based on good behavior in prison and the length of time Pippitt served in prison compared to his codefendants. In 2024 there…

‘Very mean squirrel’ seeking food has sent at least 2 people to the ER in a California city

Residents of a San Francisco Bay Area city are on the lookout for an aggressive squirrel that has sent at least two people to the emergency room. Joan Heblack told ABC affiliate KGO-TV that she was walking in a San Rafael neighborhood when a squirrel attacked her leg. Isabel Campoy says she too had been walking in the Lucas Valley neighborhood of San Rafael when the squirrel attacked, leaving her arm bloody. Flyers are now posted warning residents of the “very mean squirrel.” Experts say the squirrel was likely accustomed to people feeding and caring for it. Squirrels are not vectors for rabies.

Xcel Energy will pay $640M to settle claims from Denver-area wildfire that burned 1,000 structures

Xcel Energy Logo DENVER (AP) — Xcel Energy expects to pay about $640 million to settle lawsuits alleging it was responsible for starting Colorado’s most destructive wildfire that killed two people and destroyed nearly 1,000 homes in 2021, the company said Wednesday. The announcement came as jury selection was set to begin Thursday in a two-month trial combining lawsuits brought…

David Fry recovering after sustaining broken nose, facial fractures after being hit in face by pitch

Cleveland Guardians designated hitter David Fry is recovering after being hit in the face by a pitch from Detroit’s Tarik Skubal. The incident happened during Cleveland’s 5-2 win over the Tigers on Tuesday, which tied the AL Central division race. Fry was released from the hospital Wednesday afternoon. Imaging showed he sustained multiple facial and nasal fractures but won’t need surgery. Fry is expected to recover in six to eight weeks. He was placed on the 10-day injured list, and outfielder Johnathan Rodríguez was called up. Skubal, who was visibly shaken, visited Fry in the hospital and apologized.

Pope names successor to embattled New Orleans archbishop after sex abuse settlement

Pope Leo XIV has named a successor to the embattled archbishop of New Orleans two weeks after the archdiocese agreed to a $230 million settlement for survivors of clergy sexual abuse. Bishop James Checchio of Metuchen, New Jersey was named coadjutor bishop of New Orleans. The position puts Checchio in line to succeed Archbishop Gregory M. Aymond when he retires. Aymond reached the mandatory retirement age of 75 last November, suggesting that the Vatican kept him in place to finalize the abuse settlement and allow for an organized handover to his successor. The New Orleans archdiocese agreed Sept. 8 to a $230 million proposed settlement  to end one of the U.S. church’s longest and most contentious legal battles over abuse claims.

St. Louis River Alliance Holds “Riverfront Memories” Event

DULUTH, Minn. — The St. Louis Riverfront Alliance held a community event at Chambers Grove Park on Wednesday. The “Riverfront Memories” event aimed to connect community members to the St. Louis River. There were opportunities for people to share personal reflections about what the river means to them. The event also had various activities including a river walk, geocaching and…

Rihanna and A$AP Rocky welcome third child, Rocki

Rihanna and A$AP Rocky have welcome their third child and first daughter. Rihanna announced the birth of Rocki Irish Mayers in an Instagram post Wednesday. The couple first announced their pregnancy during the Met Gala in May. The couple has a track record for starry pregnancy announcements, with Rihanna emerging on the 2023 Super Bowl stage with a baby bump on full display. Their son Riot Rose was born later that year. The couple welcomed their first child, RZA, in 2022. The birth comes just months after A$AP Rocky was acquitted on firearms charges in Los Angeles in February.

Duluth Fire & 148th Air National Guard Fire Team Participating in ‘Fill the Boot’ Program

DULUTH, Minn.– Over the course of three days this week Duluth will have some firefighter visitors around town. They are participating in the nationwide ‘Fill the Boot’ program. Since 1954, the International Association of Firefighters has helped raised money for Muscular Dystrophy Association. Duluth Fire as well as the 148th Air National Guard fire team will be scattered around numerous…

FACT FOCUS: A look at Trump’s UN claims about irregular migration in Europe

President Donald Trump excoriated European leaders about their efforts to slow irregular migration, claiming they have done little to prevent an influx of outsiders that has transformed the continent. However, Trump’s claims during an address to the U.N. General Assembly on Tuesday come amid a decline in Europe’s irregular border crossings, which have largely been decreasing for a decade. European Union countries have spent billions of euros to stanch the flow of unauthorized migration, which includes people who came to or remained in the EU illegally or who applied for asylum in one of its member states.

What to know before you try foraging for edible plants and mushrooms in backyards or public spaces

Amid some renewed interest in foraging for edible wild plants, mushrooms and other foodstuffs, experts caution aspiring foragers to prioritize safety, plan carefully and learn proper identification. A critical consideration when gathering food from forests, urban landscapes and elsewhere is to avoid accidental poisoning. That means if you have any doubt about a plant’s safety, don’t touch or taste it. Foraging instructor Iris Phoebe Weaver says it can also be dangerous to rely solely on a comparison to online photos, which can be misidentified. Experienced foragers and field guides also recommend learning about plants’ toxic look-alikes, avoiding polluted areas, and respecting local rules and private property.

Lawmakers and activists call for action after AP reveals US tech role in China’s surveillance state

Lawmakers and activists are urging U.S. tech firms to stop selling surveillance equipment to Chinese police. This follows an Associated Press report revealing the significant role American technology plays in enabling human rights abuses in China. Republican Sen. Josh Hawley wants tech companies to testify before Congress about their exports. An AP investigation found that companies like IBM, Dell, and Cisco sold billions in technology to Chinese authorities, despite warnings. Lawmakers from both parties are calling for stricter export laws. Civil society groups are also demanding that tech firms cut ties with China’s surveillance state.

China, world’s largest carbon polluting nation, announces new climate goal to cut emissions

China, the world’s largest carbon polluting nation, has announced a new climate fighting goal to cut emissions by 7% to 10% by 2035. It came as more than 100 world leaders lined up Wednesday to talk of increased urgency and the need for stronger efforts to curb the spewing of heat-trapping gases. With major international climate negotiations in Brazil 6½ weeks away, the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres convened a special leaders summit during the General Assembly to focus on climate change.

Vikings-Steelers game gives thriving Brian Flores a reflection of gratitude and a chance to catch up

Brian Flores found the perfect pit stop for his coaching career in Pittsburgh. He has clearly been enjoying the ride with Minnesota since then. The third-year defensive coordinator of the Vikings gets the chance this weekend to catch up with old friends from the Steelers when the two teams play the NFL’s first game in Dublin. Flores had recently been fired after a three-season run as coach of the Miami Dolphins when longtime Steelers coach Mike Tomlin offered him a job as a senior defensive assistant working with the inside linebackers in 2022. He joined the Vikings a year later.

Donate Downtown Helps Fill the Need for Blood

DULUTH, Minn. — Downtown businesses have come together to support blood donations in the Twin Ports. The Memorial Blood Bus will be parked outside of one of the 8 currently participating businesses every 8 weeks. 8 weeks being the safe minimum amount of time you can go between donations. Wednesday, September 24th, the bus was parked outside the Giant office…

Man found dead near Wisconsin Point

SUPERIOR, Wis. — The body of a 53-year-old man was found near Wisconsin Point early Wednesday morning. According to officials at 1:39 a.m. Wednesday morning, officers responded to a report of a man lying in the road with a bicycle near Moccasin Mike Road and Wisconsin Point Road. Officers then gave aid to the man, who was not breathing and…

For the first time in nearly 60 years, a Syrian president addresses UN

Turning the page on decades of distance, Syria’s President Ahmad al-Sharaa addressed the U.N. General Assembly, marking the first time any Syrian president has done so in almost 60 years. He told the assembly’s annual gathering of world leaders that Syria “is reclaiming its rightful place among the nations of the world,.” The Assad family dynasty’s autocratic, repressive 50-year rule in Syria abruptly collapsed in December, when then-President Bashar Assad was ousted in a lightning insurgent offensive led by al-Sharaa. Assad’s fall ended nearly 14 years of civil war.

What to know about the shooting at a Dallas immigration facility

A gunman fired on a Dallas immigration field office from a nearby roof, killing two detainees and critically wounding another, before killing himself. The Department of Homeland Security called Wednesday morning’s shooting an indiscriminate attack on U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Officials said the victims were inside a van outside the facility. Authorities found ammunition with anti-ICE messaging at the scene. The attack is the latest in a series of targeted killings in the U.S. Officials have not released the identities of the shooter or victims. The incident occurred at a local field office where agents conduct short-term processing.

Maine wardens rescue moose trapped for hours in abandoned well

A bull moose that fell into an abandoned well in Maine was pulled to safety during an elaborate five hour rescue. The operation happened Wednesday after the family that owned forested land in northern Maine discovered the moose looking out from well that was about 9-feet deep. They alerted the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife. A biologist sedated the moose and then wardens put straps on the moose. Using an excavator provided by family, they gingerly lifted the moose out of the well. It eventually woke up and ran off — seemingly unhurt by the ordeal.

FACT FOCUS: Trump repeats false claim at UN that he has ended 7 wars

During his speech before the U.N. General Assembly, President Donald Trump promoted a second-term talking point about his efforts to settle multiple conflicts around the world. s and criticizing other countries. He said on Tuesday that “in a period of just seven months, I have ended seven unendable wars” It’s a claim he frequently makes. Trump has helped with mediations but experts say his impact is not as clear-cut as he portrays.

What are Gaelic games and how are they producing NFL hopefuls in kicking and punting?

Ireland will host its first NFL regular-season game Sunday when the Pittsburgh Steelers face the Minnesota Vikings at Croke Park. The country has its own sports, called Gaelic games, with Gaelic football in particular featuring kicking skills that can transfer to American football via placekicking and punting. A growing number of Gaelic football players are giving American football a shot, either through college programs or the NFL’s international player pathway program. Here are some facts about Gaelic games and the players trying to reach the NFL.

Fall raptor migration event open to all at Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory in Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. — Bird enthusiasts of all ages and abilities are invited to join a special fall migration event at Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory in Duluth. The final event in this year’s “Everyone Can Bird” series takes place Saturday, October 11th, from 9:45 to 11:45 a.m. October is peak migration season for raptors like bald and golden eagles, red-tailed hawks,…

Candidate declares for now open Wisconsin 7th Congressional District

Jessi Ebben STANLEY, Wis. – The day after Congressman Tom Tiffany announced his run for Wisconsin Governor, someone has announced they will be running for his Congressional seat. Jessi Ebben, a self described “Trump Conservative”, announced her candidacy in a news release on September 24, 2025. Ebben said in the news release, “Now more than ever, Wisconsin needs people willing to…

VA awards $5.5 million to help Minnesota Veterans at risk of homelessness

The Department of Veterans Affairs is providing more than $5.5 million to support Veterans in Minnesota who are experiencing homelessness or at risk of losing their homes. The Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans will receive over $5 million through the VA’s Supportive Services for Veteran Families program. The funding will help Veterans access housing and housing counseling, healthcare, financial planning,…