News

Security Officer Films Encounter with Black Bear Lounging at Miller Hill Mall

Security officer Ryan Carlson watched the bear walk around the doors, look in, and even put his paws on a ledge to take a peek in Noodles and Co.

DULUTH, Minn. – Miller Hill Mall had an unexpected guest last night when a black bear decided to lounge at one of the entrances. Security officer Ryan Carlson watched the bear walk around the doors, look in, and even put his paws on a ledge to take a peek in Noodles and Co. Carlson even brought out some tunes and…

Grandma’s Restaurant Co. President Says Weekend Nightclub Scene at Sports Garden Likely Over; More Changes Expected at Other Restaurants

The Sports Garden is a popular nightclub atmosphere that attracts hundreds of college students on the dance floor.

DULUTH, Minn. – Grandma’s Restaurant Company has big changes coming its way with how the company operates says, president Brian Daugherty. One of the changes will affect operations at Grandma’s Sports Garden as well. The Sports Garden is a popular nightclub atmosphere that attracts hundreds of college students on the dance floor. “Nightclub and dancing is probably something that we…

Temporary Drive-Thru Site Offers Coronavirus Testing in Ashland

ASHLAND, Wis. – Temporary coronavirus testing sites are popping up in northern Wisconsin. As of May 7th, more than 9,200 people have tested positive for COVID-19 across Wisconsin. But in Ashland, Bayfield, and Iron Counties combined, there have been only seven positive test results. Now, the National Guard is bringing testing sites to that region to get an accurate look…

The “No Poop Fairy” Returns To Give People A Reminder To Pick Up After Their Pets

DULUTH, Minn. – The “No Poop Fairy” has returned. The unmagical being visited Hartley Nature Center in Duluth to remind residents to do their “civic dooty” of picking up after their pets. Last year, the Regional Stormwater Protection Team debuted a PSA starring the “No Poop Fairy” to help people be mindful when they are out with their pets. This…

UMD Receives Grant To Examine Climate Change Around The Great Lakes

Researchers will examine increasing water levels, changes in algae growth, and storm patterns.

DULUTH, Minn. – The University of Minnesota Duluth recently received a grant for half a million dollars to look more into how climate-driven disturbances are impacting the Great Lakes including lake superior. For the next three years, this grant will give UMD the opportunity to bring together more than 30 scientists, practitioners, and decision-makers to gain a better understanding of…

Officials: Northland Likely to See a ‘Wave’ Rather Than ‘Surge’ in COVID-19 Patients

St. Luke's and Essentia Health Update The Public on a Weekly Basis Regarding Preparations, New Scientific Models

DULUTH, Minn. – With strict social distancing measures in place, local health experts now believe the Northland will likely not see a surge in COVID-19 patients, but rather a wave or the occasional spike in cases. During a weekly press briefing from St. Luke’s and Essentia Health Thursday, a panel of doctors and researchers gave an update on the projection…

Fond Du Lac Reservation Seeking PPE Donations

CLOQUET, Minn. – The Fond Du Lac Reservation is seeking donations of personal protective equipment. The Reservation has been screening people entering the tribal center for well over a month. Now, the band is in need of N-95 and cloth masks, disinfectant wipes and thermometer covers so they can be distributed throughout the community. “Our Fond Du Lac community has…

Businesses Prepare for Mother’s Day

Both Sam's Florist and Greenhouses along with Boat Club Restaurant are still preparing for Mother's Day.

DULUTH, Minn. – Both Sam’s Florist and Greenhouses along with Boat Club Restaurant are still preparing for Mother’s Day, even with the coronavirus’ impact on the Northland. For Sam’s Florist and Greenhouses, the shop has special flowers made for Mother’s Day, something they hope brings smiles to the faces of mothers all around the area. “There’s all kinds of beautiful…

New App Makes Shopping Easier on Iron Range

The Laurentian Chamber of Commerce put together a new app called “Shop the Range,” which is a resource for community members and businesses to access.

VIRGINIA, Minn. – Technology is a way for businesses to get their word out to the public. The Laurentian Chamber of Commerce put together a new app called “Shop the Range,” which is a resource for community members and businesses to access. Those on the Iron Range are able to look up businesses and their store hours along with whether…

Vet Clinics Expand Procedures

Restrictions are about to be lifted for veterinarian clinics all across the state of Minnesota. 

DULUTH, Minn. – Restrictions are about to be lifted for veterinarian clinics all across the state of Minnesota. Starting on Monday, vet clinics like Dougherty in Duluth will be able to see routine patients for annual exams and will be able to do routine surgeries and dentistry as well. Vet clinics were only allowed to see sick and injured animals…

Minnesota Company to Close North Dakota Coal-fired Plant

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — The company that operates the largest coal-fired power plant in North Dakota announced Thursday it will close the factory and replace most of its energy with new wind farms in Minnesota. Maple Grove, Minnesota-based Great River Energy said its Coal Creek Station near Underwood in west-central North Dakota will be shuttered in the second half of…

Trump Administration Buries Detailed CDC Advice on Reopening

(AP Photo/Alex Brandon, File) GAINESVILLE, Fla. (AP) — The Trump administration shelved a document created by the nation’s top disease investigators with step-by-step advice to local authorities on how and when to reopen restaurants and other public places during the still-raging coronavirus outbreak. The 17-page report by a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention team, titled “Guidance for Implementing the Opening Up…

Updated COVID-19 Numbers: Thursday, May 7

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota health officials reported 9,365 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state Thursday morning and 28 new deaths bringing the death total to 508 in Minnesota. According to the Minnesota Department of Health website, 97,421 tests have been completed to date. There are 5,308 patients who no longer require isolation. So far, 1,459 patients have required hospitalization…

Midday Update 5-7-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Thursday, May 7, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a local look at news and weather making headlines Thursday, May 7, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, midday update, William Seay

Cross Orders UW Campuses to Prioritize Courses, Prepare for Layoffs

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — University of Wisconsin System President Ray Cross directed campuses Thursday to quickly identify signature programs to retain and brace for layoffs as the coronavirus pandemic deepens the system’s financial losses. Cross said he wants campuses to evaluate their programs by January with an eye toward the cost, whether they are duplicated at another campus and student…

Minnesotans Urged to Fish Close to Home to Slow COVID-19

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Minnesotans should fish close to home to help curb the coronavirus pandemic when the walleye season opens this weekend, avoiding overnight stays and driving no further than they can go on one tank of gas, Department of Natural Resources officials said Wednesday. A surge in fishing license sales indicates that many Minnesotans are getting antsy under the…

33 Million Have Sought US Unemployment Aid Since Virus Hit

WASHINGTON (AP) — Nearly 3.2 million laid-off workers applied for unemployment benefits last week as the business shutdowns caused by the viral outbreak deepened the worst U.S. economic catastrophe in decades. Roughly 33.5 million people have now filed for jobless aid in the seven weeks since the coronavirus began forcing millions of companies to close their doors and slash their…

Morning Update 5-7-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Thursday, May 7, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a local look at news and weather making headlines Thursday, May 7, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, morning update, William Seay

Siblings Donate Meals to Duluth Police, Continue to Raise Money to Give More

DULUTH, Minn.- Some hungry police officers got a hearty meal donated by a local family Wednesday. The Parrott siblings have been raising money through their GoFundMe to give food to first responders. They have different fundraising goals, one of which involved Fire Chief Shawn Krizaj and Duluth Police Chief Mike Tusken jumping into the Minnesota Slip last week. The siblings…

Some Duluth Restaurants, Hotels Look Toward Uncertain Future

Hotels and restaurants try to stay afloat after decreased business for this long.

DULUTH, Minn.- As many local businesses in the hospitality industry make adjustments to continue staying open, for others that might not be an option. Dubh Linn Brew Pub in Downtown Duluth is changing their business model, offering delivery of growlers of their in-house brew, cider, wine, and food five days a week from 4pm-8pm. “People are looking for a reason,…

Bayfield Small Businesses Deal With Coronavirus Impact

As Bayfield's busy season gets closer, the town is already seeing a big hit from the coroanvirus pandemic.

BAYFIELD, Wis. – “It’s certainly been really slow and quiet downtown, kind of eerie, there’s no cars on the street, just much more quiet than usual,” co-owner of Howl Adventure Center Mary Thiel said. Bayfield’s busy season is getting closer, and the town is already seeing a big hit from the coronavirus pandemic. “So much of our economy is based…

Arrowhead Region Receives $600,000 Brownfields Grant

This is the first time the arrowhead region of Minnesota has been chosen for the grant.

DULUTH, Minn. – Several cities in Minnesota will be receiving a grant totaling $600,000 towards assessing and cleaning up abandoned industrial sites. Members of the EPA, along with Congressman Pete Stauber announced that the Arrowhead Regional Development Commission has been selected to help revitalize areas in Two Harbors including an ore dock there. Other areas include Grand Rapids, International Falls,…

Dozens of First Responders Parade by Hospitals for National Nurses Day

Nurses lined the streets waiting for the parade of sirens and honks to reach their hospitals.

DULUTH, Minn. – National Nurses Day was celebrated in Duluth when dozens of fire trucks, police cars, and ambulances paraded in front of St. Luke’s and Essentia Hospitals as a thank you to the brave nurses for their sacrifices. Nurses lined the streets waiting for the parade of sirens and honks to reach their hospitals. “Any feedback we get that’s…

Crime Rates Go Down As Opioid Overdoses Increase

This is the second spike in opioid overdoses this year. In February there was a total of 25.

DULUTH, Minn. – Since the Minnesota Stay-at-home order first took effect back in march, crime rates have gone down drastically in the city of Duluth. However, opioid overdoses are still happening during the pandemic. Duluth police say they have seen a rise in cases in the month of April. As many people are practicing social distancing and staying home during…

Limo Company Offers The Community A “Family Night Out”

Only six to eight people are allowed at a time on the buses to help follow CDC guidelines.

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Social distancing and Stay-at-home orders have been keeping many people from experiencing life outside the comforts of their own home. Road Trip limo in Superior is now offering a “family night out” special. For three hours, families can rent one of the company’s sanitized party buses to go anywhere they choose. The buses are equipped with TVs…

A New Bill Could Extend Off-Sale Purchases For Breweries And Distilleries

The bill would relax restrictions for 60 days.

DULUTH, Minn. – Local breweries and distilleries have been significantly impacted by Covid-19. A new bill could give them some relief in restrictions preventing the sale of their products. Minnesota Representatives Liz Olson and Sydney Jordan recently introduced a bill to help Minnesota craft breweries and distilleries to recover from the loss of business. The bill creates an economic opportunity…

Duluthians Celebrate “Bike to Anywhere” Day

DULUTH, Minn. – With the Covid-19 pandemic, the annual Bike to School Day put on by MNDoT and Minnesota Safe Routes to School has been changed to “Bike to Anywhere” Day. It occurs on the first Wednesday of May every year, and the day gives parents and children the opportunity to tune up their bikes and find the safest routes…

Northland High School Students use Signs to Celebrate

As regular graduations are being switched for the virtual variety, students are finding new ways to celebrate in the Northland.

DULUTH, Minn. – As regular graduations are being switched for the virtual variety, students are finding new ways to celebrate in the Northland. Students from Duluth East received yard signs to stick in their lawns last week. The signs signify their accomplishments and graduation. And now, Duluth East and Denfeld are putting together videos of their own virtual ceremonies, which…

Signing and Interpreting During a Pandemic

"I think one significant thing is that we don't feel isolated, that we're able to stay connected," said Hoppe.

DULUTH, Minn. – Maggie Hoppe is a deaf person who lives in Duluth. She says that she is used to having obstacles when talking to people. “I’m used to communication barriers with hearing people in general, and sometimes people will come up to me and talk to me and I won’t understand them because I can’t hear what they say…

Wisconsin National Guard Assisting Douglas County in Coronavirus Testing

SOLON SPRINGS, Wis.– This month, Governor Evers ordered temporary COVID-19 testing sites to pop up in northwestern Wisconsin counties for several days in each area. Today the National Guard was in Douglas County testing residents. Douglas County has tested around 500 people for Coronavirus. After today, that number is going to jump up. “I am glad that people are still…

Opponents File New Challenge to Proposed Twin Metals Mine

MINNEAPOLIS-Opponents of the proposed Twin Metals copper-nickel mine in northeastern Minnesota are suing to challenge the federal government’s renewal of the company’s mineral rights leases. The groups behind the new challenge lost an earlier lawsuit that claimed the Trump administration overstepped its authority by reversing an Obama administration decision not to renew the leases. The new lawsuit, filed Wednesday in…

Musky Fest Canceled This Year

HAYWARD, Wis.-The Hayward Chamber of Commerce has announced that this year’s Musky Fest is canceled due to the coronavirus. “After exploring various options and considering a number of factors, our Hayward Area Chamber of Commerce has made the difficult decision to cancel the 2020 Musky Festival due to the uncertainties associated with the current pandemic and the gathering of large…

State Veterans Cemeteries to Hold virtual Memorial Day Program

ST. PAUL, Minn.-The Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs will hold a virtual Memorial Day program this year in place of live events at the three State Veterans Cemeteries where past years drew thousands of visitors including for an event in Duluth. “The COVID-19 pandemic requires a new approach to our traditional Memorial Day events,” said MDVA Commissioner Larry Herke. “This…

Minnesota Tops 5,000 Daily Cornonavirus Tests for First Time

MINNEAPOLIS-Minnesota for the first time has exceeded Gov. Tim Walz’s goal of conducting 5,000 coronavirus tests a day. The Minnesota Department of Health said Wednesday that state and private labs administered 5,223 tests on Tuesday. Walz has said that hitting the 5,000 target consistently is a necessary condition for reopening the state’s economy. The department also reported 728 new confirmed…

Midday Update 5-6-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Wednesday, May 6, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a local look at news and weather making headlines Wednesday, May 6, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, midday update, William Seay

St. Luke’s Reminds Patients to Seek In-Person Care for Medical Emergencies

Many Patients Are Receiving Mixed Messages About Medical Care Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic

DULUTH, Minn. – Staff at St. Luke’s Hospital in Duluth urge patients to come into their facilities if you are experiencing a medical emergency. They’ve received reports of patients receiving mixed messages when it comes to handling medical emergencies during the COVID-19 pandemic. “If you have a medical problem, it’s safe to come see your physician,” said Dr. Nick Johnson,…

Hospitality Groups Press Lawmakers for Economic Relief

MINNEAPOLIS-A coalition of Minnesota hospitality organizations is urging state legislators to provide an economic relief package to help save the industry’s businesses. The coalition includes Hospitality Minnesota, the Minnesota Licensed Beverage Association, the Community of Minnesota Resorts and the Craft Brewers Guild. A recent survey by Hospitality Minnesota says that more than half of hospitality businesses may be forced to…

Windy Weather Yields Smaller Bird Count During Spring Migration

Spring Bird Counters Set Up Near Enger Tower and Thompson Hill Depending on Wind Conditions

DULUTH, Minn. – Coronavirus has pretty much put a halt to humans traveling across the nation, but it’s not stopping birds and other wildlife from soaring back into the Northland for the summer season. “We have to be here regardless of the weather,” said John Richardson, a spring migration counter with Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory in Duluth. A windy, cold…

Morning Update 5-6-20

Local News and Weather Making Headlines Wednesday, April 6, 2020

Join FOX 21’s Brett Scott and Meteorologist William Seay for a local look at news and weather making headlines Wednesday, May 6, 2020. Categories: Community, News, News – Latest News, News Update Tags: Brett Scott, community, Headlines, Local News, morning update, William Seay

Wisconsin Regents to Vote on Scrapping ACT/SAT Submissions

MADISON, Wis.-The University of Wisconsin System regents are set to vote this week on whether to scrap requirements that students submit ACT or SAT scores as part of their admission applications. The regents are set to meet Thursday to consider lifting the requirement at all institutions except UW-Madison for the 2020-21 and 2021-22 academic years. System officials wrote in a…

Gov. Walz Allows Elective Surgeries Statewide; Essentia, St. Luke’s Say They’re Ready

The Governor signed an executive order Tuesday allowing elective surgeries and procedures, reversing an order from March.

DULUTH, Minn.- An executive order from Governor Tim Walz gave the green light for healthcare providers to resume elective surgeries and procedures on May 11th. A move officials at Essentia Health and St. Luke’s Hospitals in Duluth said they are ready for. Health systems statewide have lost about $1 billion a month since procedures and surgeries were banned in March,…

22 Cases of Coronavirus Now in Itasca County

GRAND RAPIDS, Minn.– Itasca County has recorded an increase in cases of Coronavirus. There are now 22 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the county. That’s up from only six cases last week. Officials say 18 of those cases came from an assisted living facility in Grand Rapids known as The Emeralds where nine staff members and nine residents tested positive….

Chilly Billy’s in Duluth Reopens

DULUTH, Minn.– After being closed for over a month, Chilly Billy’s on Woodland Avenue in Duluth opened its doors last week. Because the store is self-serve, customers who come in must wear gloves that are provided while they are getting frozen yogurt. The number of toppings has been cut in half to keep customers moving. Chilly Billy’s is only letting…