News

Ely’s Peak Tunnel Closed for Maintenance

This is all part of the DWP trail mini-master plan

DULUTH, Minn. – The Ely’s Peak tunnel has been going through maintenance recently. The portion of the trail is closed to remove any dangerous or loose rocks. This is all part of the DWP trail mini-master plan. Hikers and climbers are asked to steer clear of both the tunnel and walking routes close to the work area. Construction is expected…

Skyline Lanes Prepares for Re-Opening

Skyline lanes will re-open tomorrow at 11 a.m.

HERMANTOWN, Minn. – Skyline Lanes is ready to re-open after over 70 days of being shut down. Customers will soon be back in the newly renovated facility, but there have been some big changes made to ensure the safety of all customers. Bowling will now be every other lane, and the arcade will now have games separated to ensure six…

Northland Greenhouse Stays Busy

It has been an exceptionally busy spring for greenhouses.

DULUTH, Minn. – It has been an exceptionally busy spring for greenhouses. The weather has certainly cooperated in the month of May and in the first part of June. Over at Lilac Hill Greenhouse in Hermantown, workers tell us that with the pandemic, people are staying home and not traveling, which means they are working in their yards, beautifying their…

Local Brewery Hosts Soft Opening

Restaurants and bars in Minnesota have been able to have outdoor seating for the past week but tomorrow is the first day customers will also be allowed inside.

DULUTH, Minn. – Restaurants and bars in Minnesota have been able to have outdoor seating for the past week but tomorrow is the first day customers will also be allowed inside. Duluth’s Bent Paddle, in the Lincoln Park Craft District, is having a safe and sanitary soft opening today with an open outdoor patio. All employees are wearing the required…

Glensheen Reopens After Being Closed For Months

More historic sites are opening up to the public in the Northland.

DULUTH, Minn. – More historic sites are opening up to the public in the Northland. Glensheen is now opening its historic grounds to the public after two months of closure. All staff is required to wear masks and disposable masks are available for guests when they come in. Tours are currently not available as today’s grounds opening is part of…

FDL Band Member Tests Positive for COVID-19

CLOQUET, Minn. – Minnesota health officials announced on Tuesday that a Fond du Lac Band member has tested positive for COVID-19. The Fond du Lac Human Services Division says they were notified late afternoon on Monday and that the member lives at Mino-Bimaadizi Waakaa’igan in Minneapolis. The Minnesota Department of Health says they will be working with the Human Services…

Wisconsin Campgrounds Opening, but with Changes due to COVID-19

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Wisconsin campgrounds closed since March due to the coronavirus pandemic reopen starting Wednesday, but it won’t be business as usual. Campers will have to make reservations ahead of time, won’t be able to purchase firewood on-site and all buildings, observation towers, playgrounds, concessions, and rentals will be closed. But bathrooms will be open as will the…

Midday Update 6-9-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Tuesday, June 9, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a local look at news and weather making headlines Tuesday, June 9, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, midday update, William Seay

WHO Expert Clarifies Remarks on Virus Spread

GENEVA — A top World Health Organization expert has tried to clear up “misunderstandings” about comments she made that were widely understood to suggest that people without COVID-19 symptoms rarely transmit the coronavirus. Maria Van Kerkhove, the U.N. health agency’s technical lead on the virus pandemic, insisted Tuesday that she was referring only to a few studies, not a complete…

Updated COVID-19 Numbers: Tuesday, June 9

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota health officials reported 28,523 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state Tuesday morning and 20 new deaths bringing the death total to 1,217 in Minnesota. According to the Minnesota Department of Health website, 360,991 tests have been completed to date. There are 24,221 patients who no longer require isolation. So far, 3,441 patients have required hospitalization…

Morning Update 6-9-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Tuesday, June 9, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a local look at news and weather making headlines Tuesday, June 9, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, morning update, William Seay

Verso to Idle Duluth Paper Mill, Cites Market Decline

DULUTH, Minn. – The Verso Corporation today announced that it is taking immediate actions to offset unprecedented market decline due to the COVID-19 pandemic and to reposition the company for future success. Verso will indefinitely idle paper mills in Duluth and Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin. At this time, the company will explore viable and sustainable alternatives for both mills, including restarting if market…

Terese Tomanek To Serve Remainder Of Barb Russ’ Duluth City Council Seat

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth City Council voted Monday on who will serve the remainder of Barb Russ’ at-large council seat after she recently resigned for health reasons. In a unanimous vote, councilors chose Terese Tomanek. Tomanek lives in the Congdon neighborhood and works as an on-call chaplain at Essentia Health. Some of Tomanek’s top priorities include a focus on…

Moose Lake’s Theater and Bowling Alley Opening Soon

Moose Lake's Lake Theatre and Gamper's Food, Liquor, and Bowling are getting ready to finally reopen after being closed for months due to COVID-19.

MOOSE LAKE, Minn. – After Governor Walz’s announcement, businesses such as movie theaters and bowling alleys are preparing to open their doors after being shut down for more than two and a half months. The movie theaters and bowling alleys can open up at 25 percent capacity. Moose Lake’s Lake Theatre and Gamper’s Food, Liquor, and Bowling are getting ready…

Kendahl Mini Golf in Cloquet Opens for 55th Season

CLOQUET, Minn.– With summer coming up and school ending for the year around the area, families are going out to try and find activities to do during the summer. That means places like Kendahl Mini Golf in Cloquet are opening up for the season. What started as a mini golf course in a backyard has become a popular summer spot…

Spirit Bay Trading Company Shutting Its Doors After More Than 20 Years

"I guess I'm getting up there where I want to spend time just to enjoy life," said Owner Terry Smith.

DULUTH, Minn. – The growing number of business owners choosing not to reopen as the pandemic is becoming more of a reality in the Northland. Spirit Bay Trading Company in Duluth is shutting its doors. For nearly a quarter of a century, Spirit Bay has been one of the only retail businesses in Duluth specializing in spreading the Native American…

Police Address Use of Force Procedures

DULUTH, Minn.– In the aftermath of George Floyd’s death while he was in the hands of Minneapolis Police, city leaders from across the country and right here in Duluth are addressing policies and procedures. While no policies were announced to be changed, the city of Duluth talked about what goes into policies like the Use of Force policy. “We know…

Students Return Laptop After School Year Ending

More than 1,000 laptops were issued to elementary and middle school students.

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Families and students at the Superior Middle School returned their borrowed laptops. More than 1,000 laptops were issued to elementary and middle school students. Upon return, the devices will be evaluated and updated for use next year. Superior Middle School was already allowing the use of laptops before the pandemic, but once the school moved to long…

Pier B Expands For A More Fun-filled Experience

"We just added another amenity. It's just another reason to stay in Duluth and at Pier B," said General Manager Jon Driscoll."

DULUTH, Minn. – Pier B Resort Hotel in Duluth is expanding to help give guests a more fun-filled experience during their stay. Pier B has now added a new sports court. The 5,00 square foot space will offer guests the chance to take part in activities such as corn hole or pickleball. The space also offers a courtside bar and…

Taste of Duluth Postponed to September

Taste of Duluth was originally scheduled for July 25 and will now take place on September 12 at Bayfront Festival Park.

DULUTH, Minn. – While things are starting to open back up, many events are still getting postponed or canceled, including this year’s Taste of Duluth at Bayfront Park. Taste of Duluth has been postponed to September 12. The event, which was originally scheduled for July 25, lets people walk around and enjoy food, live music, crafts, beers and other products….

George Floyd Mural Painted at Clayton Jackson McGhie Memorial

The community painted a mural of a black power sign, as well as ones of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor, an African American woman who was shot and killed while sleeping in her home in Louisville. 

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth community was given the opportunity to heal outside the Clayton Jackson McGhie Memorial on Monday through the creation of a mural. The community painted a mural of a black power sign, as well as ones of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor, an African American woman who was shot and killed while sleeping in her home…

Free Meals Begin for Students

A free breakfast and lunch program kicked off today for Duluth students.

DULUTH, Minn. – A free breakfast and lunch program kicked off today for Duluth students. Students 18 years and younger can pick up free meals during the weekdays. The meals are something simple for them to bring home to heat up, along with the essentials, like a vegetable, fruit and milk. “A lot of parents…aren’t working right now, they haven’t…

Classroom Mourns Loss of Drowning Victim

Everett Eastvold had a big impact on many people during his short life.

DULUTH, Minn. – It was last week when a six-year-old Duluth boy drowned while swimming in Wisconsin. Everett Eastvold had a big impact on many people during his short life and today, a big group of classmates from his kindergarten class came together to honor his memory. Students at Homecroft Elementary in Duluth are remembering Everett Eastvold this week. They…

Local Non-Profits Lend Helping Hand During Pandemic

Local foundations are doing what they can to support nonprofits during the COVID-19 crisis.

DULUTH, Minn. – Local foundations are doing what they can to support nonprofits during the COVID-19 crisis. The Ordean Foundation has been prioritizing non-profits hat are on the front lines that are working with vulnerable populations on issues including poverty, and basic needs such as food and shelter. “I would encourage folks who have the means that are continuing to…

With Recovery of Last Case, New Zealand has Eradicated Virus

WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP) — New Zealand appears to have completely eradicated the coronavirus — at least for now — after health officials said Monday the last known infected person had recovered. The announcement was greeted with joy around the country and means the nation of 5 million people will be among the first to welcome throngs of fans back…

Bond Raised to $1M for Officer Charged in Floyd’s Death

UPDATE: (Fox 9) – The judge set Chauvin’s bail at $1.25 million with no conditions and $1 million with conditions that include no police or law enforcement work, no firearms, and no contact with Floyd’s family. MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — A judge on Monday set $1 million bail for an ex-Minneapolis police officer charged with second-degree murder in George Floyd’s death….

Authorities: Tree Intentionally Cut to Block Traffic to Cook County

COOK COUNTY, Minn. – The Cook County Sheriff’s Office believes someone intentionally cut down a tree to block both lanes of traffic on Highway 61. According to a recent post on the Cook County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page, deputies responded to reports of a large tree blocking the highway around 1:52 a.m. Monday. The Sheriff’s Office believes the tree was…

Midday Update 6-8-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Monday, June 8, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a local look at news and weather making headlines Monday, June 8, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, midday update, William Seay

Updated COVID-19 Numbers: Monday, June 8

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota health officials reported 28,224 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state Monday morning and 11 new deaths bringing the death total to 1,197 in Minnesota. According to the Minnesota Department of Health website, 354,226 tests have been completed to date. There are 23,657 patients who no longer require isolation. So far, 3,401 patients have required hospitalization…

‘Taste of Duluth’ Event Postponed

DULUTH, Minn. – The ‘Taste of Duluth’ event has been postponed, according to a recent press release from event organizers. In a joint statement, Tracy Lundeen of Lundeen Productions and Walt Aplin of Twin Ports Entertainment said, “This decision has been made due to the Governors continuing restrictions being placed on large gatherings due to COVID-19.” The event was originally…

Officer Charged in Floyd’s Death has 1st Court Appearance

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The former Minneapolis police officer charged with second-degree murder in George Floyd’s death is scheduled to make his first court appearance Monday. Derek Chauvin, 44, is charged with third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter in Floyd’s May 25 death. Floyd, a handcuffed black man, died after the white police officer pressed his knee into his neck for several minutes…

Morning Update 6-8-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Monday, June 8, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a local look at news and weather making headlines Monday, June 8, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, morning update, William Seay

Defunding the Minneapolis Police Department Would Likely Require Public Vote

MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) – Sunday, nine Minneapolis City Councilmembers joined a call for the city to defund and dismantle the Minneapolis Police Department. Speaking during a rally, which was hosted by two groups that promote community-led policing, nine councilmembers put their backing behind the major change that has been pushed in the days following the death of George Floyd while in the…

Amble For Anders: A Fundraiser Aiming To Continue Boy’s Journey

"He actually spends a lot of time making us feel better just because of his nature of being happy and positive in finding the good in things."

DULUTH, Minn. – At 12-years-old…. “I’ve been in the school spelling Bee every year since fourth Grade.” In a way, Anders Breidenbach has experienced more than most Adults have in their lifetimes. “He was diagnosed at age nine months and through treatment until he was two,” Anders Mother, Gini Breidenbach says. And after that diagnosis of a rare form of…

Duluth Rip Current Warning in Effect until 10 a.m. Monday

  DULUTH, Minn. — The Duluth Fire Department issued a rip current warning on Sunday, meaning it is too dangerous for swimming. The warning will expire at 10 a.m. tomorrow unless dangerous conditions continue. The warning is in place because of strong wind and wave conditions. Getting caught in a rip current can be deadly for even strong swimmers, and…

Events Remembering Clayton, Jackson, and McGhie Moved Partially Online

DULUTH, Minn. — The organization that educates the community about the Isaac McGhie, Elmer Jackson and Elias Clayton Memorial in Duluth has announced that the 100-year commemoration of the wrongful lynchings of the three men will be moved partially online because of the pandemic. The organization said that the original plan included hosting 10,000 people on June 15th of this…

OMC Smokehouse Expanding into Next-Door Noble Pour; Now Called ‘OMC Whiskey Bar’

A hole in the wall now connects the restaurant to the bar, increasing seating.

DULUTH, Minn.- Governor Walz announcing that bars, restaurants and other business can open at 50% capacity Wednesday is a relief for many restaurant owners. But for one in Lincoln Park, that meant scrapping a newly opened business to give new life to an existing favorite. “We’re kind of calling an audible on every play that we’ve made in the last…

Veto-proof Majority of Minneapolis City Council Announces Support for Dismantling MPD

MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) – Nine members of the Minneapolis City Council announced their support for de-funding the Minneapolis Police Department and replacing it with a community-based public safety model at a rally in Powderhorn Park Sunday afternoon. At the end of the rally, the councilmembers and some community activisits committed to ending the Minneapolis Police Department through the budget process. The group…

Duty To Intervene: Floyd Cops Spoke Up But Didn’t Step In

Minneapolis was among several cities that had policies on the books requiring police officers to intervene to stop colleagues from using unreasonable force, but that didn’t save George Floyd and law enforcement experts say such rules will always run up against entrenched police culture and the fear of being ostracized and branded a “rat.” Power dynamics may have been magnified…

Diverse Crowd in Cloquet Says ‘Black Lives Matter’ By Peacefully Marching Streets

A diverse group gathers with signs protesting the death of George Floyd, and other black men and women at the hands of police.

CLOQUET, Minn.-Signs in support of communities of color held by a diverse group of peaceful protesters crowded Veterans Memorial Park in Cloquet. “It’s beautiful to see all these people out here even if there aren’t that many people of color it’s beautiful to see that we do have advocates out there,” said Melinda Nelms. According to organizer Taysha Martineau, it…

Remembering D-Day at the Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center

SUPERIOR, Wis.- Saturday marked the 76th anniversary of when the Allied Forces clenched a pivotal victory in World War II. June 5th, 1944– the Allies invaded Europe through Normandy Beach. At the Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center in Superior, through their preserved P-38 plane and the replica of a paratrooper, the sacrifices of those soldiers live on for future…

Healthcare Professionals Gather for Sit-In to Support Racial Equality

Doctors, nurses, and other providers gathered, most wearing their scrubs and white coats.

DULUTH, Minn. – Healthcare professionals gathered for a sit-in at the Duluth Rose Garden to promote social and racial justice in the wake of George Floyd’s death. Doctors, nurses, and other providers gathered, most wearing their scrubs and white coats. Hand sanitizer, masks, and gloves were passed out at the entrance of the Rose Garden to help everyone stay safe….

One Person Injured in Greenwood Township Cabin Fire

Photo courtesy: Friends of the Northland FireWire GREENWOOD TOWNSHIP, Minn. – A Saturday morning cabin fire left one person injured. According to the St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office, the fire happened on the 4200 block of Nelson Road in Greenway Township. Emergency personnel responded to the fire at about 7:48 a.m. Six people were in the cabin when it caught…