News

Duluth Fire Department Sees Changes Due to Coronavirus

DULUTH, Minn.– While cases of Coronavirus keep going up, essential services like the Duluth Fire Department are still busy. The pandemic has caused some changes in how they operate to best serve the people of Duluth. The Coronavirus means changes for the Duluth Fire Department. While its has been a little more busy than normal, firefighters say they are still…

Healthcare Systems Prepare for COVID-19 Surge

Testing in this region remains limited, only available to specific groups

DULUTH, Minn. – Local healthcare systems are preparing for a surge in coronavirus cases in the Northland. Healthcare officials warn that more than two million Minnesotans could get COVID-19 before the end of the pandemic, so enough hospital beds and equipment have to be ready to take in a surge of patients. Both Essentia Health and St. Luke’s are offering…

Duluth School Board Selects A Finalist In The Hunt For A New Superintendent

If a final contract is approved, the new superintendent could assume his responsibilities starting July 1st.

DULUTH, Minn- The Duluth School Board has selected its final choice in their search for a new superintendent after the current superintendent in Bill Gronseth was offered a job in St. Peter, Minnesota. The board chose John Magas, who is an Associate Superintendent for the Green Bay Area School district. Magas says he is hoping to bring along his previous…

St. Luke’s Employee Tests Positive for Coronavirus

DULUTH, Minn.-St. Luke’s has confirmed that one of their employees has tested positive for coronavirus. A spokesperson for the hospital said the infection was not a result of their work at St. Luke’s, but it was travel related. St. Luke’s leadership would not say where the employee traveled from, or if they had contact with any patients. “Contact tracing has…

Groups Serve Homeless Amidst Coronavirus

Duluth's Ordean Foundation is helping combat the impact of COVID-19 to vulnerable populations.

DULUTH, Minn. – Duluth’s Ordean Foundation is helping combat the impact of COVID-19 to vulnerable populations. The organization is providing emergency grants this week to groups like CHUM, Life House and Safe Haven. Life House in Duluth provides meals each day and also gives out hygiene products, deodorant and shampoo, to those who need them. It’s not easy maintaining precautions…

Meals on Wheels Still Trucking Forward

One organization is still paying it forward to senior citizens in need of meals.

DULUTH, Minn. – One organization is still paying it forward to senior citizens in need of meals. Even though the organization has lost some volunteers and dining sites are closed, Meals on Wheels is still operating. The group still drops off food to senior citizens in need of a hot meal, every day. “I love this program,” said Jacqueline Wacker,…

Non-Essential Businesses Speak On Closures As A Request From Governor Walz

"Well like everyone I'm very sad, scared, and everything is uncertain," said owner of Blue Heron Trading Company Jane Jenkins.

DULUTH, Minn. – The Dewitt-Seitz building in Canal Park is known to be the home for a variety of businesses like gift shops and restaurants. On a typical day, it’s flooded with locals and tourists but as the pandemic continues, the once lively building is now like a ghost town. Many non-essential businesses in Dewitt-Seitz have already stopped operating as…

Klobuchar’s Husband Back Home After Virus Hospitalization

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar’s husband has been released from a hospital where he was being treated for low oxygen and pneumonia as a result of the coronavirus, the senator said Thursday. Klobuchar, a former Democratic presidential candidate, said in a statement that her husband, John Bessler, “took a good turn, was just released and is now recovering at…

Wisconsin COVID-19 Cases Jump to More Than 700

MADISON, Wis. (AP) – Wisconsin health officials report another jump in the number of positive COVID-19 tests. The Wisconsin Department of Health Services on Thursday reported 707 positive cases of the coronavirus. That’s more than 120 cases since Wednesday, when 585 positive tests were reported. The number of deaths in Wisconsin caused by COVID-19 stands at eight. Milwaukee County has the…

Minnesota House Passes $330 Million COVID-19 Aid Bill

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The Minnesota Legislature was poised Thursday to pass a $330 million financial aid package to help soften the economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic that has sickened more than 300 people and claimed two lives in the state. The Minnesota Department of Health said Thursday that the state’s second COVID-19 death was a patient from Ramsey County…

Second Case of COVID-19 Confirmed in Bayfield County, Linked to Community Spread

Second Case of COVID-19 in Bayfield County Related to Community Spread

BAYFIELD CO., Wis. – On Thursday the Bayfield County Health Department confirmed a second case of COVID-19 in Bayfield County. This case is also considered the first known case related to community spread in the county. The lab-confirmed positive case received on March 26 did not have a history of travel or contact with a known positive case of COVID-19….

Second COVID-19 Death Reported in Minnesota, Hospitalizations Continue to Rise

ST. PAUL, Minn. – The Minnesota Department of Health has confirmed a second death due to COVID-19 as the number of people hospitalized in the state continues to rise.  As of Thursday morning, the MDH reported 41 hospitalizations up from 26 the day before. At this time 31 people remain hospitalized.  There are 36 counties with confirmed COVID-19 cases in…

Midday Update 3-26-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Thursday, March 26, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Chief Meteorologist Anthony Peoples for a local look at news and weather making headlines Thursday, March 26, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Anthony Peoples, Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, midday update

Evers Administration Closes State Capitol

MILWAUKEE (AP) – Gov. Tony Evers has decided to close the state Capitol building in Madison as the coronavirus crisis deepens in Wisconsin. The Department of Administration closed the building at 8 a.m. Thursday morning. The building will remain closed indefinitely, although DOA officials said they would reopen it if the state Legislature or the state Supreme Court decides to…

US Unemployment Claims Shatter Record as Coronavirus Hammers Economy

WASHINGTON (Fox Business) – The number of Americans filing for unemployment surged to 3.28 million last week, shattering a decades-old record in jobless claims as the coronavirus pandemic forced businesses around the country to shutter their doors. The number eclipsed the previous record of 695,000 set in 1982 and is well above the levels seen in the midst of the 2008 financial crisis, the Labor…

Arlene Coco’s Healthy Cooking Features Easy Classic Hummus Recipe

Looking for Snack Ideas? Chef Coco Has You Covered!

DULUTH, Minn. – This week’s Cooking Connection features a quick, easy appetizer that anyone could make while stuck at home during the coronavirus pandemic. Chef Arlene Coco is a regional cooking instructor who spends much of her time in the Northland. She invited us into her kitchen for a virtual cooking experience, showcasing her famous Classic Hummus recipe. Hummus is…

Wisconsin Reports 8th Coronavirus Death

MILWAUKEE (AP) – The Milwaukee County Medical Examiner says another person has died of coronavirus complications. That brings the number of COVID-19-related deaths in Wisconsin to eight. The latest victim is a 57-year-old woman from West Allis who died shortly before 10 p.m. Wednesday at Froedtert Hospital, according to the medical examiner’s office. She had been hospitalized since March 19….

Morning Update 3-26-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Thursday, March 26, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Chief Meteorologist Anthony Peoples for a local look at news and weather making headlines Thursday, March 26, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Anthony Peoples, Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, morning update

Minnesota Supreme Court Agrees to Hear PolyMet Permit Appeal

(AP Photo/Jim Mone, File) ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — The Minnesota Supreme Court has agreed to hear PolyMet Mining Inc.’s appeal of a ruling that canceled three permits needed for its proposed copper-nickel mine in northeastern Minnesota. In January, the Minnesota Court of Appeals gave environmentalists a major victory by rejecting some of the most important permits for the planned…

Senate Unanimously Passes Massive Coronavirus Aid Plan

(Senate Television via AP) WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate passed an unparalleled $2.2 trillion economic rescue package steering aid to businesses, workers and health care systems engulfed by the coronavirus pandemic. The unanimous vote Wednesday came despite misgivings on both sides about whether it goes too far or not far enough and capped days of difficult negotiations as Washington confronted…

Statewide Salvation Army Receives Big Match Donation

The Northern Division of the Salvation Army, which includes all of North Dakota and Minnesota, is one of many organizations working to help people get through this pandemic.

DULUTH, Minn. – The northern division of the Salvation Army, which includes all of North Dakota and Minnesota, is one of many organizations working to help people get through this pandemic. And now, it will be a little bit easier for them, as all donations they receive up to $500,000 will be matched. According to officials, the match donation will…

UMD Professor Stresses Importance of Long Clinical Trials for Any Potential COVID-19 Drugs

Without long trials before testing on humans, severe harm can arise.

DULUTH, Minn.- With discussions around the country about a potential vaccine or drug being developed to treat COVID-19, local experts are speaking out about the reality of treating the virus so soon. While President Trump has touched on different drugs that scientists have said might be helpful in fighting Coronavirus, UMD Applied Human Sciences Professor Jessica Hanson said testing them…

With Third Coronavirus Case in St. Louis County, Officials Urge No Travel

The third case in the county is linked to domestic travel.

DULUTH, Minn.- Governor Tim Walz’s stay-at-home order came at the heels of St. Louis County announcing the discovery of its third case of Coronavirus on Wednesday. The woman is in her late 30s, and like the other cases, contracted the virus through domestic travel. Now county leaders are taking a stronger stance on limiting people coming and out of the…

School Board Chooses Next Superintendent

DULUTH, Minn.– Monday night, the Duluth School Board discussed the final three candidates for superintendent, with the intent of choosing the right person for the job. The three finalists for the position were John Magas, Associate Superintendent of Continuous Improvement for Green Bay Area Public Schools, Dr. Michael Funk, Superintendent of Schools for Albert Lea, and Ron Wagner, Associate Superintendent…

Park Point Sees Increase in Activity

DULUTH, Minn.– The nicer weather combined with social distancing and people being out of work has meant a busier Park Point these days. People have been using their extra time to walk along the beach, walk their dogs, or just to enjoy some fresh air. “It’s a good opportunity to take advantage of some of this unexpected free time,” said…

Crooked Pint Staying Strong During Pandemic

DULUTH, Minn.– Crooked Pint in Duluth tells us they’ve seen an increase in takeout orders over the last week. Those orders have allowed the restaurant to keep a handful of employees working. Crooked Pint’s general manager says it’s a stressful time for everybody and his crew is thankful for the support from the community. “They’re glad that we’re here, we’re…

Gov. Tim Walz Issues Two-Week Stay-at-Home Order

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz issued a two-week-stay-at-home order during his Wednesday afternoon press conference. The order will take effect Friday, March 27 at 11:59 p.m. and will be in place until Friday, April 10.  It directs Minnesotans to stay at home and limit their movements outside of home. Gov. Walz says this action will slow the…

Essentia Opens Drop-Off Location for Community Donations

Essentia needs masks, gowns, eye protection, gloves, and face shields

DULUTH, Minn. – There’s now a designated drop-off site for the community to donate medical supplies to Essentia Health during the COVID-19 pandemic. Donors can drive up to a loading dock around the back of the Miller Hill Mall. They’re asked to stay in their cars, call one of the phone numbers on the nearby poster, and wait for Essentia…

Superior Restaurant Offering Bulk Grocery Delivery

KD's restaurant has switched their business model during the coronavirus shutdown

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Restaurants everywhere have switched their business over to carry-out and delivery. Now, one Superior business is delivering grocery products to its customers. KD’s Restaurant has seen a big decline in business since dining is no longer allowed. Now, they’re selling and delivering customers the bulk products they get directly from suppliers. The owner tells us the new…

Bulldog Pizza Sells Pizza Kits During Global Pandemic

The pizza shop is offering curbside and delivery for all pizza kit orders.

DULUTH, Minn. – Local businesses are getting more creative during the Coronavirus Pandemic. Bulldog Pizza in Duluth is now selling pizza kits for families to make their own pies at home. Each kit comes with all the fixings including four mini dough balls, cheese, marinara sauce, and a full list of directions. The co-owner says the kits were an idea…

How are Car Dealerships Dealing with the Coronavirus

Car dealerships like Benna Ford in Superior are still open for business.

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Car dealerships like Benna Ford in Superior are still open for business, but things have changed a bit. Different managers and different sales people are in the office ever day on a rotation. The business is doing the best it can to implement a 6-foot distance between salespeople and customers. There is also a Lysol spray on…

Jefferson Lines Running Bus Routes During Pandemic

Jefferson Lines offers multiple routes including daily trips to Minneapolis-St. Paul.

DULUTH, Minn. – Jefferson Lines in Duluth is still running bus routes during the pandemic, but they have made a few adjustments to follow along with federal and state mandates. The bus line will be limiting the number of passengers on their fleet to allow for social distancing. Crews are also sanitizing bus interiors regularly. “It’s reassuring that folks know…

St. Luke’s Hospital Issues Layoffs And Temporarily Cuts Hours

Essentia has yet to cut jobs.

DULUTH, Minn – St. Luke’s Hospital in Duluth has announced they have laid off seven employees in positions that… leadership says are not essential during the pandemic. They are also temporarily cutting hours for workers in some areas. The hospital would not comment on what positions are being cut or reduced. This comes after Governor Walz ordered to cease all…

Multiple Essential Businesses Are On The Hunt For Employees

Some people are collecting unemployment and that may not be enough," said Stepping Stone for Living President Stephanie Ericksen.

NORTHLAND – Many businesses in various industries are hoping to fill openings and give workers some relief during this pandemic. Across the Northland, non-essential businesses have closed up shop. Many were forced to lay off employees as a result of Covid-19. But essential businesses like health care facilities and grocery stores are still in need of help. Stepping Stones for…

Essentia Health Opens Drop-Off Site for Community Donations

(courtesy: Essentia Health) DULUTH, Minn. – Essentia Health has opened a drop-off site for community donations at its Miller Hill Health Plaza.  Essentia says they are seeking donations of:  Medical-grade N95 masks Unopened medical-grade personal protective equipment (PPE) – masks, gowns, eye protection, and gloves Face shields Handmade masks The drop-off site will be open from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00…

Gov. Tim Walz to Announce New Restrictions in Statewide Coronavirus Response

(courtesy: Fox 9) ST. PAUL, Minn. (Fox 9) – Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz is expected to announce new statewide restrictions during his 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday that will be aimed at slowing the spread of coronavirus.  The new restrictions will go further than the school and business closures that Walz announced last week and plan to extend beyond Friday.  As…

Midday Update 3-25-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Wednesday, March 25, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Brittney Merlot for a local look at news and weather making headlines Wednesday, March 25, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, midday update

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz Will Extend Coronavirus Business Shutdown Past Friday

(FOX 9) – Gov. Tim Walz says he will extend an order forcing thousands of Minnesota businesses to close beyond its original end date of Friday as the coronavirus spreads across the state. Walz told reporters on a conference call Tuesday that he was not prepared to set a new date. But he refuted President Donald Trump’s stated desire of…

Timberwolves’ Towns says mother hospitalized with COVID-19

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) – Minnesota Timberwolves center Karl-Anthony Towns says his mother is hospitalized and in a medically-induced coma after contracting the new coronavirus. Towns talked about his mother’s condition Wednesday on his Instagram page and urged his followers to take COVID-19 seriously and practice social distancing. Towns says both his parents went to the hospital recently and were tested for…

Minnesota Lawmakers Will Reconvene to Bolster COVID-19 Fight

(AP Photo/Steve Karnowski) MINNEAPOLIS (AP) – Minnesota lawmakers are preparing to return to the Capitol to beef up the state’s fight against COVID-19 and help residents cope with the economic disruptions. House Speaker Melissa Hortman and Senate Majority Leader Paul Gazelka notified legislators late Tuesday they will reconvene Thursday. The House meets at noon while the Senate gathers at 2…

Veterinary Clinics Open Amid COVID-19 Concerns, New Protocols In Place

Local Vet Clinics Are Using Curbside Services to Continue Seeing Clients' Pets

DULUTH, Minn. – With several business owners closing their doors, Northland veterinary clinics are also seeing the effects of coronavirus (COVID-19). This reality is because more people are choosing to keep their pets home instead of receiving nonessential care. At Duluth Veterinary Hospital, they have protocols in place for a curbside service, where staff comes out to retrieve the pet…

Morning Update 3-25-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Wednesday, March 25, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist Brittney Merlot for a local look at news and weather making headlines Wednesday, March 25, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, morning update

White House, Congress Agree on $2 Trillion Virus Rescue Bill

WASHINGTON (AP) — The White House and Senate leaders of both parties announced an agreement early Wednesday on an unprecedented $2 trillion emergency bill to rush sweeping aid to businesses, workers and a health care system slammed by the coronavirus pandemic. Top White House aide Eric Ueland announced the agreement in a Capitol hallway shortly after midnight early Wednesday, capping…