News

Walleye Fishing on Mille Lacs Lake Closed for July

ST. PAUL, Minn.-Walleye fishing on Minnesota’s Mille Lacs Lake has closed for July. The planned closure took effect Wednesday, in anticipation of a fall walleye season. Officials with the Department of Natural Resources determined closing the popular lake to walleye fishing in July would provide the best chance for walleye fishing this fall, by reducing hooking mortality when water temperatures…

Jamrock Cultural Restaurant Finds New Home After Eviction Complicates Business

After being evicted due to serving the food to cars lined up outside his home, the owner and chef said, a Superior bar helped him out.

SUPERIOR, Wis.- A local cook who’s Caribbean food business was sidelined after his landlord evicted him is teaming up with a Superior bar owner to serve his food once again. Average Joe’s Pub off Hammond Avenue was packed Tuesday evening, but people weren’t just there for a drink — but for Jamrock Cultural Restaurant in the back of the building….

Local Musician, Disability Rights Advocate Writes to Duluth Council in Favor of Mask Mandate

Gaelynn Lea says she feels requiring masks indoors is a logical first step for Duluth.

DULUTH, Minn.- A local musician and outspoken advocate for people with disabilities is voicing her support of the City Council approving a mask-mandate in public buildings. Gaelynn Lea recently wrote to Mayor Emily Larson and also the City Council urging them to require mask-wearing in the city. She said people who don’t wear a mask in public create a serious…

Tourists Take In Amnicon Falls State Park

With over eight-hundred acres, and four unique waterfalls, Amnicon Falls State Park has a lot to explore.

SOUTH RANGE, Wisc. – Just outside of Superior you can find majestic falls waiting to be seen. “Every year me, my uncle and my brother go adventuring go adventuring up here. We just go to some state parks and this was the one we can to this year,” Wild Rose Wisconsin Resident, Julia Sullivan says. With over eight-hundred acres, and…

Lake Avenue Restaurant and Bar Voluntarily Closes After Staff Member Tests Positive for COVID-19

DULUTH, Minn.– Lake Avenue Restaurant and Bar in Duluth announced Wednesday they are voluntarily closing, explaining that staff has been exposed to a person with COVID-19. It’s also located in Canal Park, where the popular tourist destination has been seeing bigger crowds over the last few weeks. After a number of bars and restaurants in Superior closed yesterday due to…

John Magas Begins Role as Duluth Superintendent

DULUTH, Minn.– Today is the first day on the job for new Duluth Superintendent John Magas, who was named to the position in March. Magas has been spending the past few weeks transitioning virtually as the 30th superintendent in the district’s history. He says his long term goals include forming strategic plans on the district’s boundaries and finances. But Magas…

Duluth Authorities Search for Suspected Naked Man in Sewers

DULUTH, Minn.– A suspected naked man led authorities on a search effort in the downtown Duluth sewer system Wednesday. The Duluth Fire Department got the call for help at 12:17 p.m. about a man who reportedly was crawling into a sewer near the DTA Transit Center at 3rd Avenue West. Multiple agencies responded, looking through pipes and manholes. A remote…

Wild State Cider Expands

Patrons are welcome into the taproom during the process.

DULUTH, Minn. – It’s been more than a year since Wild State Cider in Duluth opened its doors for the first time. Now it’s expanding. The popular cidery is extending its existing space to make room for six new tanks. A new canning line has already been added and some other building upgrades are taking place. Wild State distributes its…

Emergency Ordinance Proposal Could Require Everyone To Wear Masks Indoors

As an effort to ensure mass compliance with this proposed ordinance Essentia Health has offered to donate 20,000 masks to the public.

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth City Council is proposing an emergency ordinance to require everyone to wear masks while indoors From a statistical standpoint, many health officials believe wearing masks is a no brainer. As the number of Covid-19 cases keeps fluctuating daily around the nation, it can be difficult to see an end to the pandemic. Health experts believe…

Maritime Staff Help Tourists Navigate Area

While the local maritime museum remains closed to guests, it now has staff stationed outside the visitor center to provide information for guests and visitors.

DULUTH, Minn. – While the local maritime museum remains closed to guests, it now has staff stationed outside the visitor center to provide information for guests and visitors. It provides information about the shipping schedule along with brochures about the area. Those helping out say it’s important to get the word out about all the area has to offer. “This…

WITC Prepares for Fall Semester

As the pandemic continues, local colleges are getting ready for the fall semester.

DULUTH, Minn. – As the pandemic continues, local colleges are getting ready for the fall semester. Over at WITC, leadership says they are still figuring out what that looks like logistically. Students may or may not be required to wear a mask depending on how close in proximity they may be to other students in the classroom. They added they…

North Shore Scenic Railroad Kicks Off Summer Tourism Season

The coronavirus pandemic stopped operations at the North Shore Scenic Railroad in Duluth for many weeks, but a train finally left the depot today.

DULUTH, Minn. – The coronavirus pandemic stopped operations at the North Shore Scenic Railroad in Duluth for many weeks, but a train finally left the depot today. It’s the first run of the season. After three and a half months of preparations, the North Shore Scenic Railroad is welcoming in passengers and guests. “Even though we’re delayed, we’re sold out…

Health Officials Close Indoor Service at Madison Bars

(William Glasheen/The Post-Crescent via AP) MADISON, Wis. (AP) – Public health officials are closing indoor service at bars in Madison as the Fourth of July weekend approaches and as the number of reported coronavirus cases accelerate. Many of the new cases involve young people in Wisconsin’s largest college community. The order from Public Health Madison & Dane County allows bars…

Lake Avenue Restaurant and Bar Temporarily Closing After Employee Tests Positive for COVID-19

(photo courtesy: Facebook/Lake Avenue Restaurant and Bar) DULUTH, Minn. – Lake Avenue Restaurant and Bar announced on Wednesday they will be closing temporarily due to an employee testing positive for COVID-19. In a recent Facebook post, the restaurant wrote, “We are focusing right now on ensuring that the rest of our employees get tested. We continue to follow the cleaning…

Authorities Respond to Reports of Man in Duluth Sewer System, No one Located in Search

DULUTH, Minn. – Authorities in Duluth say they have ended their search for a person that allegedly crawled into the sewer system near the downtown area Wednesday afternoon. A city spokesperson says the Duluth Fire Department received a call around 12:17 p.m. reporting a man that was seen crawling into a sewer pipe around South 3rd Avenue West and I-35….

Pharmaceutical Industry Sues to Block Minnesota Insulin Law

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — The drug industry is suing to overturn a Minnesota law that took effect Wednesday that requires them to provide emergency and longer-term insulin supplies to diabetics who can’t afford them. The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America, also known as PhRMA, filed a lawsuit in federal court in Minnesota late Tuesday, just hours before the…

Updated COVID-19 Numbers: Wednesday, July 1

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota health officials reported 36,716 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state Wednesday morning and 4 new deaths bringing the death total to 1,445 in Minnesota. According to the Minnesota Department of Health website, 617,107 tests have been completed to date. There are 31,947 patients who no longer require isolation. So far, 4,081 patients have required hospitalization…

Duluth City Council to Introduce Ordinance Requiring Mask Use

DULUTH, Minn.-Duluth residents may soon be required to wear masks in indoor spaces where business with the public is conducted. Multiple Duluth city councilors made that announcement during a press conference today with a vote expected on July 13. If approved, it would go into effect immediately and last until the end of state and local emergencies. Councilor Arik Forsman…

Midday Update 7-1-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Wednesday, July 1, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a local look at news and weather making headlines Wednesday, July 1, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, midday update, William Seay

Trial Date Set for Former Minneapolis Officers Charged in George Floyd’s Death

(from left, Derek Chauvin, Tuo Thao, Thomas Lane, and J. Alexander Kueng) MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) – A Hennepin County District Court Judge Peter Cahill has set the date for the first trial of the four former Minneapolis police officers charged in the death of George Floyd as well as other deadlines in the case. The first trial will commence on March 8, 2021, at…

Lake Superior Zoo Launches Phase Two of Reopening, Membership Drive Extended

Starting Thursday, July 2, Lake Superior Zoo will Welcome Back Visitors to Indoor Exhibits

DULUTH, Minn. – The call of the wild is calling Northlanders back to the Lake Superior Zoo amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Starting Thursday, July 2, the zoo will begin phase two in the reopening process. This will allow visitors to once again check out indoor exhibits, just in time for the Fourth of July holiday weekend. “We’re just really excited…

Morning Update 7-1-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Wednesday, July 1, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a local look at news and weather making headlines Wednesday, July 1, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, morning update, William Seay

University of Minnesota: 7 Students Test COVID-19 Positive

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The University of Minnesota said Tuesday that seven athletes from “multiple sports” have tested positive for the coronavirus. The Gopher Athletics Department conducted 170 COVID-19 tests during June, and seven athletes tested positive. The school said students who test positive are entered into a protocol and asked to self-isolate. Those students will have access to all necessary…

Wisconsin DNR to Allow Group Camping of 50 People or Less, Starting July 13

(FOX 9) – As COVID-19 restrictions loosen, Wisconsin campsites will also be taking more steps to reopen. Starting July 13, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources will allow group camping for groups 50 or less. A reservation is required before setting up camp. Also, the DNR will start placing camp hosts at state park campgrounds and firewood at some state parks. While visiting the…

Former Hermantown Police Chief, Sons Among Injured In Hit-And-Run; Suspect Charged

Complaint: Suspect Rodney Scandin Jr. of Two Harbors drank two beers and got distracted before crash.

DULUTH, Minn. – A Two Harbors man was charged in St. Louis County Court Tuesday after a hit-and-run in Midway Township Friday that seriously injured five people — one of them critically. Suspect Rodney Scandin Rodney Scandin Jr., 35, of Two Harbors is charged with five felonies and a misdemeanor, including Criminal Vehicular Operation leading to bodily harm while also leaving…

Longview Tennis Club Resumes Operations

"I think tennis is for everybody. You don't have to be a professional at it."

DULUTH, Minn. – “I think tennis is for everybody. You don’t have to be a professional at it,” Longview Tennis Manager, Kirk Summers says. Whether you’re an ammeter or an expert, there’s no questioning how good it feels to get back outside. “We know we don’t have many days like this which is nice to come down and play outdoors,”…

Fireworks Stands Stay Busy

Northlanders are also continuing to prep for the fourth by buying up fireworks.

DULUTH, Minn. – Northlanders are also continuing to prep for the fourth by buying up fireworks. The owners at one stand at Cub Foods in Duluth says sales are up 300 percent higher than they were last year. Owners attribute this to coronavirus, saying since many celebrations are canceled, Northlanders are celebrating in their own ways, while keeping safety in…

Multiple Bars Voluntarily Close After Customers Test Positive for COVID-19

SUPERIOR, Wis.– At least five bars in Superior, South Superior and South Range have voluntarily shut their doors for the time being after getting notified they’ve each had a customer in their establishment recently who has tested positive COVID-19. The bar closures come as the health department recorded 30 positive cases in Douglas County since the pandemic began. Log Cabin…

Tutors Wanted For Duluth Area Schools

The deadline to apply is July 29th.

DULUTH, Minn. – As the Covid-19 crisis has already thrown a curveball in the way students receive their education there is a growing need to help students struggling with math are reading. The Math and Reading Corp of Minnesota is hoping to help fill those gaps. The organization is looking to hire nearly 2,000 tutors across the state and about…

Propane Prices Are Beginning To Go Up

In the last few months, the cost of propane has jumped by 30 cents.

DULUTH, Minn. – At the start of the pandemic, the cost for fuel and other energy resources dropped drastically. But as the world inches closer to an economic recovery those prices are steadily climbing. Fuel companies like Superior Fuel in Duluth are now urging their customers to take advantage of the low pricing while it lasts. In recent weeks, the…

ER Visits For Heart Attack, Stroke, And Diabetic Issues Drop During Pandemic

A national study found that visits for heart attack or stroke were down by at least 20% between March and May.

DULUTH, Minn. – Hospitals around the nation are experiencing declines in emergency room visits that are not Covid-19 related, but is a direct impact of the pandemic. A study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is showing a noticeable drop in emergency room visits for people suffering from heart attacks, strokes, and those living with uncontrolled diabetes….

North Shore Scenic Railroad Poised to Reopen

DULUTH, Minn. – The North Shore Scenic Railroad and Lake Superior Railroad Museum are set to reopen on Wednesday. The two will open together after being shut down for several months allowing directors to take a look at other attractions open around the country to see what was working for them. Now, with an increased emphasis in safety and touchless…

Flag Business Getting Busy

As the Fourth of July approaches, you may be interested in getting a flag to celebrate. One local business is here to help.

DULUTH, Minn. – As the Fourth of July approaches, you may be interested in getting a flag to celebrate. One local business is here to help. True North Flags and Flagpoles sells both flags and poles to companies and to individuals. The business started about one year ago. Leadership says that it’s important for a flag to not be torn,…

Duluth Children’s Museum Opens This Week

After being closed for months, the Duluth Children's Museum is reopening Thursday.

DULUTH, Minn. – After being closed for months, the Duluth Children’s Museum is reopening Thursday. Since shutting down, leadership has had to come up with new ways for kids of all ages to enjoy the attractions, and now, safety precautions are in place, which should keep everyone comfortable. “Well, we’re so excited,” said Cameron Kruger, the president and CEO of…

Fauci: US ‘Going in Wrong Direction’ in Coronavirus Outbreak

WASHINGTON (AP) – The U.S. is “going in the wrong direction” with the coronavirus surging badly enough that Dr. Anthony Fauci told senators Tuesday some regions are putting the entire country at risk — just as schools and colleges are wrestling with how to safely reopen. With about 40,000 new cases being reported a day, Fauci, the government’s top infectious…

University of Minnesota, Edina, Rochester Adopt Face Mask Requirements

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The University of Minnesota as well as the cities of Edina and Rochester have new requirements on wearing face masks in public places as the number of coronavirus cases and deaths continue to climb in Minnesota. University officials sent an e-mail to students Monday announcing that beginning Wednesday, all faculty, students, and visitors to the campuses will…

Two Harbors Man Charged With Hit-and-Run

TWO HARBORS, Minn. – A Two Harbors man has been charged with five felonies and a misdemeanor stemming from a Friday hit-and-run accident at an intersection in Midway Township. 35-year-old Rodney Drake Scandin, Jr. is charged with two counts of criminal vehicular operation causing great bodily harm – driver who causes collision leaves scene, three counts of criminal vehicular operation…

Midday Update 6-30-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Tuesday, June 30, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a local look at news and weather making headlines Tuesday, June 30, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, midday update, William Seay

Updated COVID-19 Numbers: Tuesday, June 30

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota health officials reported 36,303 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state Tuesday morning and 6 new deaths bringing the death total to 1,441 in Minnesota. According to the Minnesota Department of Health website, 605,316 tests have been completed to date. There are 31,601 patients who no longer require isolation. So far, 4,054 patients have required hospitalization…

Morning Update 6-30-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Tuesday, June 30, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a local look at news and weather making headlines Tuesday, June 30, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, morning update, William Seay

WITC to Offer In-Person Classes for Fall Semester

SUPERIOR, Wis. – WITC says they will offer in-person classes for the 2020-2021 academic year. “WITC is committed to providing all of the essential degrees and diplomas that require hands-on training while following the health department and CDC guidelines that are in place,” the college said in a Tuesday press release. The college says they will offer in-person classes for…

Stokke’s Liquor Expands to Lakeside Neighborhood

Stokke's Liquor Store in Lakeside is located at 5631 East Superior Street. 

DULUTH, Minn. – After decades of being a dry neighborhood, there’s now an additional liquor store in Duluth’s Lakeside neighborhood. “I know that for a really long time, Lakeside didn’t have a liquor store. So it’s kind of cool to open in a certain period of time,” assistant manager of Stokke’s Liquor Store Destanie Michelizzi said. Stokke’s Liquor Store expanded…

New Owner of Greysolon Plaza Says Much Will Remain the Same

Historic downtown building sold for $17.45 Million.

DULUTH, Minn. – The Greysolon Plaza located in downtown Duluth has been sold to Orbach Affordable Housing Solutions for a reported $17.45 million. JLL Capital Markets announced the sale on Monday between Sherman Associates and Orbach Affordable Housing Solutions, based out of New Jersey. The Plaza currently offers 150 one-bedroom affordable housing apartments, along with the Greysolon Ballroom and Black…

State of Minnesota Gives Out Over 600,000 COVID-19 Tests

ST. PAUL, Minn.– In late May, Minnesota Governor Walz announced a partnership with two of the state’s top healthcare providers to help increase COVID-19 testing capacity. The ambitious partnership including the University of Minnesota, the Mayo Clinic, and the state announced that they have tested over 600,000 people after ramping up their efforts in late May. “This puts us in…